Calbayog Water inaugurates septage treatment facility in Calbayog City

Marking a significant step toward improved sanitation and environmental stewardship, Manila Water Non-East Zone operating unit Calbayog Water officially inaugurated its Septage Treatment Facility (SpTP), in Barangay Dinagan, Calbayog City, Samar.

The event was attended by key officials of Manila Water Philippines Ventures (MWPV), led by Melvin John Tan, Chief Operating Officer, and Roberto Vasquez, Regional Operations Group Director for VisMin. Calbayog City Mayor Reymund Uy also graced the occasion, expressing strong support for the initiative.

“This facility represents a major leap in improving the quality of life for our constituents. I commend Calbayog Water and its partners for their commitment to building not only infrastructure but also a healthier future for our people,” said Mayor Uy in his address.

The newly inaugurated facility, which is the first SpTP in Calbayog City to cater to residential customers, is equipped with an initial treatment capacity of 10 cubic meters per day (CMD), with a scalable design that can expand to 20 CMD—ensuring it can meet the city’s growing sanitation needs. Once fully operational, it will serve up to 15,000 households on a five-year desludging cycle, operating 240 days annually.

 

At the heart of the facility is the i-TECH Packaged Sewer Treatment Plant (STP), a compact and robust system that utilizes advanced membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology. This state-of-the-art solution effectively removes contaminants and pathogens, including nitrates and phosphates, ensuring compliance with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) effluent standards.

Strategically constructed to align with Calbayog’s long-term environmental and public health objectives, the SpTP is designed to prevent groundwater contamination, reduce waterborne diseases, and elevate the city’s overall sanitation landscape. It also supports compliance with the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004 by ensuring safe collection, transport, treatment, and disposal of septage.

The inauguration underscored the strong collaboration between public and private sectors. As a subsidiary of MWPV, Calbayog Water Company emphasized that the facility is part of its broader sustainability and service expansion strategy.

“The inauguration of this facility marks not only the completion of a project but the beginning of a healthier, more sustainable future for Calbayog. We are proud to partner with the local government and our stakeholders to bring essential sanitation services closer to the people,” said Tan.

Guests were also given a guided tour of the facility, showcasing its innovative design, operational processes, and sustainability features.

This initiative stands as a testament to Calbayog Water’s commitment to delivering innovative and inclusive water and sanitation solutions—ensuring that no community is left behind in its mission to provide safe water and proper sanitation for all.

New Location to Accelerate Strategic Growth and Innovation: Allianz PNB Life Moves to New Makati Headquarters

Makati City, Philippines — August 8, 2025 — Allianz PNB Life (AZPNBL) marked a major milestone in its journey of growth and innovation with the official opening of its new corporate headquarters at One Ayala, Makati.

The move signals AZPNBL’s readiness to scale operations and strengthen its position as a leading player in the Philippine life insurance industry. More than just a physical relocation, the new space reflects the company’s commitment to customer-focused transformation, digital innovation, and sustainability—all aligned with Allianz Group’s 2030 ambition to be the most trusted partner in life, health, and wealth.

 

“Our relocation to One Ayala is a bold step toward the future,” said Joseph Gross, President and CEO of Allianz PNB Life. “The office is designed with both clients and employees in mind—prioritizing accessibility, collaboration, and service excellence. It is a space that enables us to elevate the customer experience while driving sustainable growth.”

A Symbol of Sustainability and Progress

The new headquarters is LEED-certified, meeting global standards for safety, design, and environmental responsibility. It supports Allianz’s group-wide sustainability strategy and creates a modern, collaborative environment that improves employee productivity and client experience.

“The Philippines is an important market in the Allianz Asia Pacific network,” said Anusha Thavarajah, Regional CEO of Allianz Asia Pacific. “AZPNBL’s strong performance reinforces our confidence in the region and supports our 2030 Pinnacle ambition. This new office is a testament to the company’s growth and readiness to deliver its part in achieving our shared ambitions.”

Accelerating Toward 2030

Central to Allianz’s roadmap is a continued focus on being customer-first, digitally enabled, and sustainability-driven. AZPNBL has made significant strides in digital transformation, most notably through initiatives like the Project Lighthouse, the OnTheGo app, and AI integration that enhance both distribution and customer journey.

“We laid the groundwork in 2024, and this year marks the acceleration of our digital and operational transformation,” Gross added. “We are positioning Allianz PNB Life to deliver on its promise of trust, innovation, and excellence.”

Empowering People, Expanding Reach

Now in its ninth year of operations since Allianz’s acquisition of 51% of PNB Life in 2016, AZPNBL continues to build on a foundation of strong market performance and product innovation.

“The Philippines has a population of over 117 million, yet insurance penetration remains around 2%,” Gross noted. “We see this as a powerful opportunity. We are committed to expanding our reach with inclusive, relevant, and affordable solutions that put our customers at the center of everything we do.”

The new office also enhances internal collaboration, providing teams with modern layouts and amenities to better serve clients, while offering greater accessibility through its prime Makati location.

“This new space allows us to deliver an even better experience to our clients—one that reflects comfort, security, and sustainability,” Gross concluded. “It’s a new home for our people, our partners, and our mission to secure the future of more Filipinos.”

More information about Allianz PNB Life is available at 

https://www.allianzpnblife.ph/ 

 

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200 Runners Joined the Haier Run for Future Possibilities 2025

MANILA, Philippines — The Haier Run for Future Possibilities 2025 made an electrifying return on May 25 at the MOA Complex, gathering 3,200 runners in a powerful display of unity, health, and purpose. Now on its second year, the run not only championed physical fitness but also advanced Haier Philippines' mission of giving back—supporting education and well-being initiatives for Filipino youth with every stride. 📷 The run wasn't just about reaching the finish line—it was about running for a cause. In line with Haier’s mission to give back, every step taken contributed to supporting educational opportunities for Filipino children, reinforcing the event’s deeper purpose of creating a brighter future for the next generation. From the early morning assembly to the final steps across the finish line, runners enjoyed a seamless blend of activity and advocacy. This year’s run reaffirmed Haier’s commitment to going beyond home innovation and giving back to the community. Beyond the race, participants explored Haier’s commitment to innovation through interactive booths featuring its five major product lines: Air Conditioners, Refrigerators, Gas Ranges, Washing Machines, and Televisions. Each booth offered engaging experiences, product demonstrations, freebies, games, and giveaways that drew runners in even after they crossed the finish line. 📷 Participants were also treated to a festival-like atmosphere, with free taho, ice cream, refreshments, photo walls, and countless Instagrammable moments. Many runners proudly posed with their medals, capturing their achievement on camera and enjoying post-run photo ops. The event also welcomed notable media personalities and influencers, who joined the run and mingled with participants. Runners were excited to meet and snap photos with their favorite content creators, adding star power to the already exciting event. In addition, Haier’s valued dealer partners participated in full force, showing their strong support for the brand’s advocacy and community outreach. True to Haier’s spirit of giving, top finishers took home premium appliances including refrigerators, TVs, and washing machines—further motivating runners to push themselves toward the finish line. The raffle draws also gave everyone a chance to win exciting prizes, adding thrill to the morning’s activities. But the true winners of the day were the communities supported by the cause. During the charity awarding, representatives from Autism Society Philippines and SOS Children’s Villages Pilipinas were acknowledged on stage, receiving donations that will further their invaluable work. Together, these efforts aim to create a brighter, more inclusive future for Filipino youth. 📷 The event wrapped up with a lively performance, photo ops, and messages of thanks from Haier’s leadership. The energy and enthusiasm shared by all attendees confirmed what this run is truly about: celebrating milestones, advancing technology, and building better communities—together. Haier would like to thank all runners, sponsors, media friends, influencers, and partners who made the event a massive success. Until the next run—let’s keep moving forward, together. #HaierPhRun2025 #HaierRunForFuturePossibilities2025