Allianz Employees Join Hands to Help Mindanao Families Rebuild After Earthquake

Months after an earthquake disrupted lives in Mindanao, Allianz PNB Life employees are turning compassion into meaningful action, raising ₱350,000 with the company’s matching contribution to support mothers, newborns, and young children as affected families work toward recovery.

 

For families recovering from a disaster, rebuilding life often begins with the smallest necessities: food on the table, clean water, hygiene supplies, and the assurance that their children are cared for.

Months after a powerful earthquake shook communities in Mindanao, many families continue to face the challenges of restoring their homes, livelihoods, and daily routines. While the immediate emergency may have passed, the journey toward recovery remains a daily struggle, particularly for mothers caring for newborns and families with young children.

Moved by the continuing needs of these communities, employees of Allianz PNB Life (Allianz) came together for a voluntary fundraising drive to help affected families take steps toward rebuilding their lives.

What began as individual acts of generosity grew into a collective effort when Allianz matched the amount raised by its employees, bringing the total donation to ₱350,000.

The funds will be coursed through the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) for its Child and Maternal Support Program, which will assist earthquake-affected families in selected communities in Sarangani Province and General Santos City.

For the beneficiaries, the assistance is intended to help meet essential needs during a period when even everyday necessities can be difficult to secure.

“Behind every recovery effort are families doing their best to rebuild their lives one day at a time. The support from Allianz PNB Life employees and the company’s matching contribution will help provide essential care for mothers, newborns, and young children in communities still recovering from the earthquake. We are deeply grateful for this partnership, which shows how collective action can bring comfort, hope, and practical assistance to those who need it most,” said Rene ‘Butch’ Meily, President of the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation.

The program will provide emergency nutrition assistance, newborn care packages, and hygiene and sanitation kits, particularly for children under five years old, lactating mothers and their newborns, and other families still dealing with the effects of the disaster.
Small Acts of Kindness, A Greater Impact
For Allianz employees who joined the fundraising drive, the initiative was an opportunity to extend a helping hand to people they might never meet personally but whose struggles resonated with them.

Ryanne Balintec, IT Portfolio and Business Relationship Manager, said the effort was a simple way of reminding affected families that they had not been forgotten.

“The earthquake may no longer be in the headlines every day, but we know that many families are still rebuilding their lives. We wanted to do our part, however small, to help them get back on their feet and move forward,” Balintec shared.

Her sentiment reflects a reality often overlooked after disasters: when news coverage fades and emergency operations wind down, families continue working to regain stability.

For parents, recovery also means finding ways to provide for their children, maintain proper nutrition, and create a safe environment where their families can begin to feel secure again.

Pionna Arenas, Service Excellence Lead at Allianz PNB Life, said the experience demonstrated how individual contributions can become more meaningful when people come together for a shared purpose.

“What moved me was seeing colleagues willingly come together to help people we may never personally meet. Individually, our contributions may seem small, but together, they can help a family take another step toward rebuilding,” Arenas said.

Through the combined contributions of employees and the company’s matching donation, the initiative demonstrates how a workplace community can extend its care beyond the office and into the lives of families facing difficult circumstances.
Extending Care Beyond Insurance
For Allianz PNB Life, the initiative reflects a broader understanding of its responsibility to help people feel more secure, especially during challenging times.

“At Allianz, creating security and peace of mind goes beyond the protection we provide through our products. It is also about standing with communities during difficult moments and helping families regain a sense of stability as they recover and rebuild,” said Rozanne Magararu, Chief Marketing Officer of Allianz PNB Life.

“We are grateful to our employees for coming together to support families facing difficult circumstances and to our partners at PDRF for delivering much-needed assistance on the ground,” she added.

The ₱350,000 donation will support PDRF’s delivery of assistance in coordination with local government units and communities, helping bring essential supplies to families who continue to need support.

The partnership also underscores the importance of sustained assistance in disaster recovery. While immediate relief addresses urgent needs, rebuilding lives often requires continued attention to health, nutrition, sanitation, and the well-being of vulnerable family members.
Helping Families Find Their Footing Again
Resilience is often seen in the ability of communities to recover after a disaster. But behind that resilience are individual stories of parents caring for their children, families rebuilding their routines, and neighbors helping one another through uncertain days.

Sometimes, progress begins with something simple: a mother receiving essential supplies for her newborn, a young child getting nutritional support, or a family gaining access to hygiene necessities that make daily life a little easier.

These may seem like small steps, but for families navigating the long road to recovery, they can make a meaningful difference.

For Allianz PNB Life employees, the fundraising initiative is an expression of compassion put into action. By combining personal generosity with corporate support and working alongside an established disaster-response organization, they are helping extend assistance to communities still rebuilding after the earthquake.

Ultimately, helping Mindanao families rise again is about more than providing donations. It is about recognizing that recovery continues long after a disaster leaves the headlines—and that no family should have to face that journey feeling forgotten.

Through this collective effort, Allianz PNB Life hopes to help mothers, children, and communities move closer to a safer, healthier, and more stable future.

 

 

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McDonald’s Philippines Serves Up Its Biggest-Ever Korean Flavor Lineup

 

From sweet-and-spicy burgers to smoky Galbi fries and a refreshing melon float, the expanded Taste of Korea menu brings Korean-inspired cravings to Filipino food lovers, complete with a K-inspired microdrama and exclusive McDo App deals.

 

Korean food cravings are getting a McDonald’s twist as McDonald’s Philippines turns up the flavor with its biggest-ever Korean-inspired menu platform, introducing four limited-time offerings designed to bring the excitement of Korean cuisine to Filipino diners.

Following the September launch of its McSpicy x G-DRAGON collaboration, the fast-food chain is expanding its Taste of Korea lineup with the Yangnyeom McSpicy, Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger, Galbi McShaker Fries and K-Melon Float, available beginning October 9.

Bringing together sweet, spicy, smoky and refreshing flavors, the new menu offers food lovers a convenient way to enjoy Korean-inspired favorites without leaving their go-to fast-food destination. The experience is summed up in the playful phrase “Annyeongsarap!”—a fusion of Korean greeting culture and the Filipino word for delicious.

“Korean culture continues to unite Pinoys of all ages and groups, especially Korean food and culinary experiences. The buzz we’ve seen around the recent McSpicy x G-DRAGON collaboration, as well as our Taste of Korea and Flavors of Asia menus in 2021 and 2022 show how strong Pinoys’ affinity towards all things-Korean. Now, we’re excited to elevate the heat further on the K-experience with our new Taste of Korea offerings. We invite customers and fans to discover new favorites and enjoy a taste of Korea,” said Karl Christian Chua, McDonald’s Philippines Brand Manager.
Korean-Inspired Flavors With a McDonald’s Twist
The new Taste of Korea menu brings familiar McDonald’s favorites together with flavor profiles inspired by Korean food culture.

Leading the lineup is the Yangnyeom McSpicy, which combines the chain’s spicy chicken offering with creamy yangnyeom sauce for a bold blend of sweet, savory and spicy notes. The Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger gives burger lovers a similar flavor experience, pairing the sauce with a double-cheeseburger favorite.

For those who enjoy a little extra seasoning with their fries, the Galbi McShaker Fries delivers a smoky, savory and slightly sweet flavor inspired by Korean galbi, adding a new twist to McDonald’s World Famous Fries.

Completing the lineup is the K-Melon Float, a refreshing drink-dessert made with a Sprite McFloat base and sweet melon flavor inspired by the popular South Korean ice cream brand Melona. Its fruity character offers a cool contrast to the menu’s richer and spicier choices.

Together, the four offerings create a Korean-inspired meal experience that moves from bold and savory to sweet and refreshing.
A Taste of Korea, Plus a Little Kilig
McDonald’s Philippines is extending the Korean-inspired experience beyond the menu with the premiere of “The Plus One,” a new microdrama that brings a dose of K-drama-style kilig and comedy to the campaign.

The story follows three lifelong friends—Kim, Marco and Dom—who have always dreamed of visiting Korea. When Kim wins a dream trip to the Land of the Morning Calm, she discovers she can bring only one friend as her plus one.

What follows is a hilarious competition between Marco and Dom as each tries to secure the coveted spot. The question is simple: who will Kim choose?

The microdrama taps into Filipinos’ enthusiasm for Korean entertainment, blending friendship, humor and romantic-comedy elements with the food-focused campaign.

“At McDonald’s, we’re always looking for ways to bring total experiences to our customers beyond exciting flavors. Taste of Korea captures the vibrant flavors that have become so popular among Filipinos, and we’re excited for customers to try this lineup. And with ‘The Plus One,’ we’re elevating the Korean experience further, bridging Filipinos’ strong affinity for Korean entertainment and the growing popularity of microdramas with their love for Korean food,” Chua added.
McDo App Deals Make the Korean Flavor Experience More Accessible
Customers can also enjoy exclusive offers through the McDo App, making it easier to try the new Korean-inspired favorites.

The promos include:

• ₱199 Yangnyeom McSpicy meal offer with a free large Sprite.
• ₱169 Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger offer with a free large Sprite.

The offers give customers another reason to explore the new flavors, whether they are longtime fans of Korean cuisine or simply looking for something different on their next McDonald’s visit.

The Yangnyeom McSpicy, Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger, Galbi McShaker Fries and K-Melon Float are available for dine-in, take-out and drive-thru, as well as through the McDonald’s Delivery App and third-party delivery platforms.

With its expanded menu, exclusive app deals and K-drama-inspired entertainment, McDonald’s Philippines is bringing together three things Filipino fans enjoy: flavorful food, Korean pop culture and shareable experiences.

For those ready to satisfy their Korean-inspired cravings, the invitation is clear: discover the new lineup and enjoy a little Annyeongsarap!

For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Facebook, @mcdo_ph on Instagram and @McDo_PH on X.

 

 

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Our Home in Baguio for 3 Days and 2 Nights

Looking for an affordable place to stay in Baguio for a goup of 8-10pax!??

Please check this place out! 

 

Located at #56 Badihoy Street, Bgy, Guisad Baguio City!

 

You can reserve a booking via their Airbnb page at this link https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/689098282481692128?

Very accommodating ng custodian nila na si Miss Joanna..

 

 

 

 

We enjoyed this stylish 2-Bedroom apartment experience that can comfortably sleep 10 people that is centrally-located in Baguio City. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

This apartment has a balcony with a magnificent view of Baguio City similar to what you will see in the roof decks of SM Baguio. 

 

 

 

 

The space of the unit is best for your family bonding or just chillin' with the barkada :)

 

Pretty place, so private. Peaceful. Nakaka-relax!

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Celebrating 20 Years of Empowering Young Entrepreneurs 2026 FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge Asia Pacific Winners Announced

6 Students from across the region emerge top amongst 48 finalists

 

Federal Express Corporation, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, together with Junior Achievement (JA), announced the winners of the 2026 FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge Asia Pacific finals held at a live event in Singapore. The event marks a significant milestone as the program celebrates its 20th year of empowering young people across Asia Pacific with entrepreneurial, business, and international trade skills.

 

This year’s competition attracted over 4,000 students from 8 markets including Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.

 

48 students gathered in Singapore for the Asia Pacific finals and were tasked to create a market entry strategy for an Innovative and sustainable product that repurposes used packaging materials into a sustainable solution that delivers economic, environmental, or social value in local communities, with Cambodia being the target market. With growing discourse among consumers on how products affect the environment, and the role corporations can play in shaping a sustainable future, the challenge was particularly relevant. Students were paired into teams of two from different markets to foster cross-cultural understanding. The student teams then pitched their idea to a panel of judges made up of Singapore’s leading entrepreneurs and small business owners.

 

“As we celebrate the 20th year of the FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge, we are proud of the lasting impact the program has had on thousands of young people across Asia Pacific. What began as an initiative to introduce students to international trade has evolved into a platform that develops entrepreneurial thinking, cross-cultural collaboration, and real-world problem-solving skills. The talent, creativity, and global mindset demonstrated by this year’s finalists give us great confidence in the next generation of business leaders,” said Salil Chari, president, Asia Pacific, FedEx.

 

The first-place winners were Team Ascent, consisting of Farra Santoso (Indonesia) and Harry Jang (the Republic of Korea). They impressed the judges with their innovative idea of a lightweight thermal shield made from recycled industrial packaging. Designed for Cambodia’s hot climate, it reduces heat entering existing buildings without electricity, helping lower factory energy costs, protect workers from heat, and reduce waste.

 

The two runner-up teams were Team Baksei, comprising Masato Hirozane (Japan) and Sara Nileshkumar Jasani (Malaysia), who developed a solution that transforms discarded soft-plastic packaging into durable, flood-resilient permeable tiles. Team Ventra, consisting of Minette Cabaluna (Philippines) and Rayden Cleverson Suhardi (Indonesia), proposed a modular cooling solution made from recycled plastic waste that helps reduce indoor temperatures without electricity.

 

“Winning the 2026 FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge has been an unforgettable experience. Working with teammates from different markets challenged us to think beyond our own perspectives and develop solutions that could succeed on a global scale. Throughout the competition, we learned how international trade, sustainability, technology, and cultural understanding come together to solve real business challenges. Being part of the program’s 20th anniversary year makes this achievement even more meaningful, and we are grateful for the opportunity to learn from industry leaders and connect with talented students from across the region,” said Farra Santoso (Indonesia) and Harry Jang (the Republic of Korea), members of the winning team.

 

“These winners, and indeed all the 48 finalists, represent the very best of the impact that the FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge was designed to achieve: young people with bold ideas, the courage to collaborate across cultures, and the ability to turn classroom learning into real-world business solutions. As the program marks its 20th year, their achievement is a powerful reminder that the future of trade and entrepreneurship in Asia Pacific is already taking shape in the hands of our youth,” said Vivek Kumar, President and Chief Executive Officer of JA Asia Pacific.

 

The finals introduced several new elements to commemorate the program’s 20th year. For the first time, the program incorporated findings from a region-wide student survey that gathered more than 4,000 responses across 10 Asia Pacific markets, providing valuable insights into workplace readiness, entrepreneurial capability, global trade literacy, and perceptions of artificial intelligence. In addition, alumni from across the program’s 20-year history participated as mentors, judges, and speakers, creating meaningful connections between past and present participants while demonstrating the program’s enduring impact.

 

FedEx believes that investing in mentorship is essential to empowering the next generation of leaders to thrive. In addition to the prizes, the 2026 APAC winners will receive an exclusive opportunity to deepen their understanding of global commerce through visits to FedEx operational facilities in their respective markets and direct engagement with FedEx team members. This immersive experience will provide valuable insights into logistics, supply chain management, and international trade, complementing the entrepreneurial skills developed through the program.

 

The FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge is jointly organized by FedEx and JA Asia Pacific, a Member of JA Worldwide. Now in its 20th year, the program has empowered more than 54,000 students across Asia Pacific through a blend of classroom learning, entrepreneurship education, and hands-on international business challenges. The program equips young people with practical skills in business, economics, global trade, teamwork, and problem-solving, helping prepare them for success in an increasingly interconnected global economy. In addition to supporting young entrepreneurs through the JA ITC, FedEx has been organizing the Small Business Grant Contest (SBGC) to support small-and-medium-enterprises (SMEs) across Asia Pacific.

 

What Does It Take To Sustain Philippine Pickleball’s Boom?

As Philippine pickleball enters its next stage of growth, RacketPro is bringing its internationally recognized Level 1 Coach Certification Tour to help develop the next generation of Filipino coaches.

Philippine pickleball is no longer an emerging sport. It is becoming one of the country’s fastest-growing sporting movements.

 

Courts are filling up. New clubs are forming. Local tournaments are drawing bigger fields. Players from different age groups and sporting backgrounds are discovering the game, turning what was once a recreational pastime into one of the country’s fastest-growing sporting communities.

 

According to the Philippine Pickleball Federation (PPF), the Philippines now has 492 affiliated pickleball clubs, more than 46,400 registered players, and 427 playing venues nationwide. The sport’s reach continues to expand through 86 dedicated pickleball courts across 29 malls, making the game more accessible to communities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

As participation continues to accelerate, the Philippines is attracting significant investment from across the global pickleball ecosystem. Robinsons Land and Kosmas Athletic Ventures are investing up to ₱1 billion to develop the Helios Pickleball Center—Asia’s first tournament-grade pickleball facility featuring 25 professional-grade courts and a 2,000-seat stadium court. At the same time, UPA Asia has confirmed plans to bring multiple PPA Tour Asia events to the venue beginning in 2027, while JOOLA continues to strengthen its presence in the region through strategic partnerships with the tour.

While these investments are accelerating participation and expanding the sport’s footprint, long-term growth depends on more than infrastructure and competition. The next challenge is developing qualified coaches who can raise playing standards, strengthen clubs, and build a sustainable coaching ecosystem for the years ahead.

As global organizations continue investing in tournaments, infrastructure, and player participation, RacketPro (RPO) APAC’s contribution is centered on coaching quality in the Philippines. Through RacketPro APAC’s Philippines Tour across Manila, Cebu & Davao, which takes place from the end of July to the beginning of August, the organization focuses on equipping local coaches with internationally recognized education, structured coaching methodologies, and a long-term professional development pathway that supports the sustainable growth of the sport.

As an official partner of PPA Tour, RPO conducted on-court coaching clinics during the PPA’s Asia stop, providing players with hands-on instruction from RPO’s coaching team.

Founded to raise coaching standards worldwide, RPO believes that great players begin with great coaches. The organization has certified more than 1,500 coaches across 22 countries while working alongside leading facilities, federations, and industry partners to advance pickleball through structured education and professional development. Through RPO APAC, the organization continues to bring globally recognized coach education to emerging pickleball communities across Asia, including the Philippines.

 

RPO APAC is bringing its internationally recognized Level 1 Coach Certification Tour to the Philippines, with workshops in Manila on July 29, Cebu on July 31, and Davao on August 2. The tour is expected to certify more than 100 Filipino coaches, further strengthening the country’s coaching ecosystem with internationally recognized credentials.

 

Designed for aspiring coaches, current instructors, and experienced players looking to transition into coaching, the program offers participants the opportunity to earn an internationally recognized certification while learning directly from some of the sport’s most respected educators.

 

Leading the Philippine workshops are Collin Johns, one of the world’s most accomplished pickleball professionals and RPO’s Technical Director, Connor Nguyen, Managing Director of RPO APAC, and veteran coach Derek Sawer. Together, they will guide participants through a blended learning experience that combines virtual coursework, online assessments, and intensive on-court instruction focused on coaching beginner and intermediate players.

 

What distinguishes the program is its emphasis on developing coaches rather than simply teaching the game.

 

Developed by Collin Johns, the Level 1 curriculum blends elite competitive experience with practical coaching methodology. Participants learn player assessment, lesson planning, communication strategies, and effective on-court instruction through a curriculum that continues to evolve alongside the professional game. The certification also serves as the first step in RPO’s broader coach development pathway, allowing coaches to continue advancing their education and credentials as the sport evolves.

 

“The Philippines is one of the most exciting pickleball markets in Asia, and we’re seeing tremendous enthusiasm from players across the country,” said Connor Nguyen, Managing Director of RPO APAC. “As participation grows, we believe investing in coaches is one of the most important ways to ensure the sport continues to thrive. Our goal is to equip Filipino coaches with world-class education, internationally recognized certification, and a clear pathway for continuous professional development.”

 

As the Philippine pickleball ecosystem continues to expand through new facilities, international tournaments, and growing participation, coaching quality is becoming an equally important pillar for the sport’s long-term development. Through the Philippine stop of its APAC Tour, RPO aims to complement this momentum by investing in the people who will shape the next generation of players, clubs, and communities.

 

 

 

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BPI makes interbank transfers permanently free

Make sure your BPI app is up to date to enjoy the latest features and enhancements.

 

As part of its push for financial inclusion and in celebration of its 175th anniversary, the Bank of the Philippines Islands (BPI) announces that fund transfers to other banks and e-wallets via InstaPay and PESONet on the BPI app, online banking, VYBE, BanKo, and BizKo will be permanently free, effective July 1, 2026.

 

The move is also aligned with BSP Circular No. 1238, Series of 2026, which calls on BSP‑supervised financial institutions to adopt reasonable and fair, market‑based pricing for person‑to‑person electronic fund transfers.

 

Previously, BPI app users were charged ₱10 for InstaPay transactions and ₱50 for PESONet transfers when sending funds through the BPI app. Transfers to other banks and e-wallets remain free for all verified VYBE users.

“As we mark our 175th year, BPI remains committed to removing barriers to financial access and making banking more inclusive for all Filipinos. Making interbank transfers free is a meaningful step toward enabling our customers to move their money more freely, while strengthening adoption of secure and convenient digital banking,” said BPI President and CEO TG Limcaoco.

“We expect this to drive more frequent use of digital transfers as customers no longer have to factor in per-transaction costs. It simplifies everyday payments and makes the BPI app an even more practical tool for managing finances,” he added.

 

The free interbank fund transfer initiative is expected to benefit more than 9.5 million BPI app enrolled users, enabling more cost-efficient and accessible digital transactions.

 

 

The waived fees apply to transactions of:

• All existing BPI mobile app users, including both active and inactive customers
• Clients under BPI Preferred, BPI Gold, BPI Private Wealth, and verified VYBE users who already enjoy free interbank fund transfers as part of their existing benefits

Offer Details

• Zero fees for transfers to other banks and e-wallets
• Applicable to InstaPay (real-time transfers) and PESONet (batch processing)
• Available via BPI online banking, BPI app, BanKo, and BizKo
• Effective July 1, 2026

App Update

In a related development, BPI customers will need to use the updated version of the mobile app by June 25. The app update includes minor fixes and performance improvements to further enhance the user experience.

Customers are encouraged to ensure their app is updated to the latest version, available on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei AppGallery.

The removal of interbank transfer fees forms part of BPI’s broader strategy to drive digital adoption and enhance accessibility to financial services. By lowering transaction costs, the bank aims to encourage greater use of digital platforms for payments, remittances, and fund transfers.

Should customers encounter issues, BPI remains ready to assist through its official channels to ensure a smooth and seamless banking experience. Clients may visit www.bpi.com.ph or contact the BPI 24/7 Contact Center at (02) 889-10000.

 

 

 

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PLDT Enterprise, Nabstract Partner to Combat OTP Fraud Through SmartSafe SilentAccess

PLDT Enterprise and Nabstract seal their partnership to deliver smarter, intent-based network API solutions that empower businesses across industries. From left to right: Mark Dommel Geronimo, Head of Wireless Product Development at PLDT Enterprise; Mickey Ruiz, Senior Manager and Head of Enterprise Innovations and Product Development, PLDT Enterprise; John Gonzales, First Vice President & Head, Enterprise Consulting & Strategic Business Development, PLDT Enterprise; Vaibhav Mehta, Founder & Director, Nabstract; Nico Alcoseba, First Vice President and Head of Product Management, PLDT Enterprise; Amet Zalameda, Head of Network Transformation Strategy Office, Smart Communications Inc.; Noemi Santos, Assistant Vice President and Head of Enterprise Wireless Platforms, PLDT Enterprise; Maria Elizabeth Soriano, Product Manager, PLDT Enterprise

As part of its commitment to strengthening digital security, PLDT’s corporate arm, PLDT Enterprise, has partnered with Nabstract, a global technology company that helps telecom providers and cloud platforms deliver safer digital services, and a certified Open Gateway Channel Partner, to deliver a safer and more secure alternative to one-time passwords (OTP) through SmartSafe SilentAccess.

SilentAccess, the flagship solution in the upcoming SmartSafe fraud management API suite, enables real-time, direct user authentication through Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) allowing seamless logins and transactions without the need for OTPs sent via text message, which are often targets of phishing and other scams.

By leveraging Nabstract’s expertise in network exposure capabilities, PLDT Enterprise offers real-time fraud detection that empowers businesses in banking, e-commerce, and even SMEs to protect their customers from cyber-attacks, reduce financial losses, and build stronger digital trust.

“Our collaboration with Nabstract reinforces PLDT Enterprise’s mission to drive innovation and security in the digital space, for institutions across industries. With our GSMA Open Gateway API Certification, we are taking bold steps toward future-proofing businesses with seamless, fraud-resistant solutions – enabling them to serve their customers with confidence,” said Nico Alcoseba, First Vice President and Head of Product Management, PLDT Enterprise.

Future-Proofing Network Security with Open Gateway APIs

Nabstract brings its expertise in secure network connections and API-based tools to help enterprises easily integrate anti-fraud systems, network performance management, and quality control solutions. This partnership provides businesses with access to next-generation network intelligence that enhances security and user experience.

Through the Service Exposure Platform (SEP) built into Smart’s network infrastructure, this partnership gives businesses access to next-generation security tools. Whether it’s banks preventing unauthorized access, e-commerce platforms reducing cart abandonment by removing OTP friction, or SMEs ensuring secure customer logins, these API-based innovations are helping build a stronger and more secure digital economy for the Philippines.

Strengthening Cybersecurity and Digital Trust

With the GSMA Open Gateway API Certification, PLDT Enterprise continues to lead in developing new ways to protect digital transactions, ensuring businesses can proactively defend against digital fraud while optimizing network performance.

“We trust PLDT Enterprise as a key player in delivering secure and innovative digital solutions. Through this partnership, we aim to empower businesses with scalable, efficient, and highly secure network API integrations,” said Vaibhav Mehta, Founder and Director, Nabstract.

This milestone builds on PLDT Enterprise’s ongoing efforts to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by enabling businesses to thrive in a digitally safe and inclusive economy.

For more information about SmartSafe SilentAccess, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterpise-nabstract-partnership-pr

Rex Education Honored with Two Major Wins at the 47th CMMA Awards

PHOTOS CAPTION: REX proudly receives two awards at the 47th CMMA Awards: *Best Children’s Magazine* for The Bread Basket and *Best Editorial Cartoon* for the Sinag/The Catalyst piece “Mass Deportation of Undocumented Filipinos in the US.” Photo credit to Catholic Mass Media Award

Rex Education achieved another significant milestone with two major recognitions at the 47th Catholic Mass Media Awards held on November 19, 2025 at the Citystate Hotel Tower in Ermita, Manila. The awards highlight the organization’s ongoing commitment to producing educational content that informs, inspires, and nurtures the mind and the heart of every Filipino learner.

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REX received the Best Children’s Magazine award for The Bread Basket and Best Editorial Cartoon award for the piece published in Sinag/The Catalyst titled “Mass Deportation of Undocumented Filipinos in the US.” These honors emphasize the importance of educational materials that blend academic relevance with creative and responsible storytelling and meaningful social reflection.

In the field of education, values-driven and thoughtfully crafted media remain essential in helping learners understand themselves, their communities, and the world around them. Publications such as The Bread Basket support children in developing empathy and curiosity through stories that speak to their experiences. Editorial works like the award-winning cartoon in Sinag/The Catalyst encourage students to think critically about current issues in ways that are clear and accessible. These contributions uplift, guide, and help build character of young readers toward becoming informed and responsible citizens.

These recognitions serve as a quiet but powerful affirmation of the work that happens every day within REX’s creative and editorial teams. Behind each publication are authors, editors, illustrators, and partners who approach their craft with purpose and a deep understanding of the role education plays in shaping learners and communities. Their passion allows REX to produce content that inspires curiosity, encourages reflection, and fosters conversations that lead to growth.

The Catholic Mass Media Awards have long recognized media that uplifts, guides, and forms values, and to be counted among its honorees reinforces REX's commitment to continually raise the standard of learning materials in the Philippines and to contribute to the development of content that strengthens values formation.

REX extends its heartfelt thanks to the Catholic Mass Media Awards for this recognition and to the entire REX community whose dedication makes achievements like these possible. As the organization continues to grow, it remains steadfast in its mission to empower Filipino learners and help shape a future rooted in truth, compassion, and lifelong learning.

Haier and Automatic Centre Showcase Smarter Cooling Solutions at Market! Market!

Haier Philippines President and CEO Sun Liangjun during the Automatic Center Air Conditioner Product Launch held on October 3, 2025.

Haier Philippines executives and partners lead the unveiling of the new Haier UV Cool AI Voice Air Conditioner during the Automatic Center Product Launch

From Left to Right:

Haier AC Product Manager - Mr. Wang Kangning

Haier Vice President - Mr. Xuhong Yan

Haier President & CEO - Mr. Sun Liangjun

Automatic Merchandising Head - Ms. Cheng Del Mundo

Automatic Centre Senior Marketing Manager - Ms. Pearl Perlada

Mr. Herrick Soneja - Automatic Centre District Manager

From Left to Right:

KOL - Ms. Valerie Tan

Haier Senior Marketing Manager - Ms. Angeli Patricio

Haier AC Product Manager - Mr. Wang Kangning

Haier Vice President - Mr. Xuhong Yan

Haier President & CEO - Mr. Sun Liangjun

Automatic Merchandising Head - Ms. Cheng Del Mundo

Automatic Centre Senior Marketing Manager - Ms. Pearl Perlada

Mr. Herrick Soneja - Automatic Centre District Manager

Haier Strategic Channel Sales Director - Mr. Eric Pabustan

Haier Product Manager - Mr. John Torres

Display of Haier’s latest air conditioner lineup featuring the UV Cool AI Voice series at Automatic Center.

Haier Key Opinion Leader Valerie Tan poses with event models during the Automatic Center Air Conditioner Product Launch held on October 3, 2025.

Haier Philippines and Automatic Centre teams together with event models during the Haier Air Conditioner Product Launch at Automatic Centre.

Shoppers at Market! Market! enjoyed a refreshing showcase as Haier Philippines, in partnership with Automatic Centre, introduced its latest line of air conditioners through a Mini Launch Event. The program gathered partners, guests, and media for a closer look at Haier’s newest cooling innovations designed for smarter living.

At the spotlight of the showcase was the Haier UV Cool AI Voice, a hands-free, voice-controlled air conditioner that allows homeowners to adjust comfort levels through simple voice commands—without Wi-Fi or external devices. It also features AI Eco technology for smart airflow management and UVC sterilization that helps keep indoor air fresh and safe.

 

Also introduced was the Haier Clean Cool Pro series, designed for families seeking reliable performance and easy maintenance. With its Self-Clean technology, the unit automatically reduces bacterial buildup in the evaporator, ensuring consistently clean air. Its Hyper PCB and anti-corrosion design help extend the unit’s lifespan, offering durable cooling solutions for Filipino households.

 

The event not only showed Haier’s new products but also emphasized the strength of its collaboration with Automatic Centre, the country’s oldest appliance store and a heritage brand trusted by generations. Known as a go-to destination for quality appliances, Automatic Centre has built its legacy on dependable products, after-sales service, and knowledgeable specialists who guide families in finding the right fit for their homes.

 

Automatic Centre continues to make appliance shopping more convenient with 0% installment plans, Shop Now Pay Later programs, exclusive bank offers, and partnerships with financing providers such as Home Credit, Skyro, and Salmon. With this customer-focused approach, the store remains a reliable partner for Filipino households—past, present, and future.

The Market! Market! mini launch served as an intimate preview, with Haier and Automatic Centre extending the experience through an in-store exhibit running from October to December 2025, giving mall-goers the opportunity to explore the new models firsthand.

Together, Haier and Automatic Centre continue their shared mission of bringing smarter, cleaner, and longer-lasting cooling solutions to Filipino homes, backed by a tradition of trust and innovation.

Visit: https://www.haier.com/ph/air-conditioners/