Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Security Bank Foundation and JVRFI Deliver New Classrooms to Tarlac National High School

Tarlac City, Philippines – More than 10,000 students at Tarlac National High School (TNHS) will benefit from safer, more conducive learning spaces following the turnover of a newly constructed two‑storey, 10-classroom building by Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI), with one classroom sponsored by the Jesus V. Del Rosario Foundation, Inc. (JVRFI).

The turnover ceremony was led by SBFI Chairman Rafael Simpao, Jr. and JVRFI Executive Director Kana Manglapus, together with school officials, local partners, and members of the Security Bank community.

One of the oldest and largest public secondary schools in the country, TNHS has long grappled with overcrowding and limited classroom space. Despite these challenges, the school continues to produce high-performing students and runs inclusive education programs serving out-of-school youth, young mothers, working adults, and learners in correctional facilities under the leadership of Principal Yolanda Gonzales, recently recognized as the Best Principal of the Year at the 26th World School Summit in London.

"The outstanding performance of Tarlac National High School offers a ray of hope for a better Philippines,” said Rafael Simpao, Jr., SBFI Chairman. “Under the remarkable leadership of Principal Gonzales, we see how public schools—when given the right support—can stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s best and help shape a brighter future for our youth.”

The newly completed building is dedicated to THNS’ Special Program in Sports, providing student-athletes with a safe environment where they can pursue both academic and athletic excellence.

“This new facility shows what is possible when vision, care, and opportunity come together,” said Principal Gonzales. “With this support, even the biggest challenges can be transformed into success stories—for our students and for our community.”

Jane Canlas, Branch Manager at Security Bank Tarlac- TaƱedo and a proud TNHS alumna, also expressed her appreciation for the project. “It is both an honor and a privilege to now represent Security Bank in giving back to my alma mater,” Canlas said. “This donation reflects our commitment to empowering communities through education, and it is deeply meaningful to see it benefit the school where my own foundation was built.”

To date, Security Bank Foundation has donated 887 classrooms to 151 schools across 91 cities and municipalities nationwide, helping create safer, more supportive learning environments for Filipino students.

Learn more about Security Bank Foundation’s education initiatives by visiting https://www.securitybank.com/foundation/

Monday, December 22, 2025

COLORFUL Launches iGame GeForce RTX 50 MINI OC Series for Compact Gaming PCs

Shenzhen, China — Colorful Technology Company Limited, a well-known name in gaming PC components, gaming laptops, and HiFi audio products, has officially announced the global launch of the highly anticipated iGame GeForce RTX 50 MINI OC Series graphics cards. Designed specifically for compact and small-form-factor PCs, the new MINI series delivers next-generation GPU performance in an impressively space-saving design, measuring just 180mm in length.

The lineup debuts with the iGame GeForce RTX 5060 Ti MINI OC 8GB, while the RTX 5060 Ti MINI OC 16GB and RTX 5070 MINI OC 12GB models are scheduled for release at a later date. This launch marks a significant step forward for gamers and PC enthusiasts who demand high performance without sacrificing space.

Compact Design Meets Advanced Cooling

Despite its compact footprint and single-fan configuration, the iGame GeForce RTX 50 MINI OC Series features an advanced cooling solution. A cage-style metal cooling structure, extended heatsink fins, and a large 95mm seven-blade fan work together to ensure efficient heat dissipation. This robust thermal design allows the MINI series to support higher-performance GPUs, including the GeForce RTX 5070, reinforcing its reputation as a true “performance pocket rocket” for ITX builds.

Refined Industrial Aesthetics

Visually, the RTX 50 MINI OC Series represents a major upgrade over the previous generation. The graphics cards feature a premium matte black unibody metal shroud, offering improved durability and a clean, modern look. Subtle star-like detailing adds depth without overpowering the minimalist design. The upgraded metal backplate also adopts a matte black finish that resists fingerprints and enhances long-term durability.

For users who enjoy customization, the side-mounted ARGB “MINI” lettering can be personalized via iGame Center software, allowing seamless integration with different PC themes.

Built for ITX Enthusiasts

With dimensions of 180 × 123 × 39.8mm, the iGame GeForce RTX 50 MINI OC Series is compatible with most ITX cases on the market. This makes it an ideal choice for compact gaming systems where space efficiency, airflow, and performance must coexist.

Key Specifications (RTX 5060 Ti MINI OC 8GB)

  • Boost Clock: 2632MHz

  • Power Phases: 6+2

  • Heatpipes: 4 × 6mm

  • Outputs: 3 DisplayPort + HDMI

  • Power Connector: 8-pin PCIe

For pricing and availability details, interested customers are advised to contact their local COLORFUL Technology representative.

Bold Homegrown Ideas Take Center Stage in Smart’s ‘Hack the Bottleneck’ Initiative

As part of the company's sustained initiatives to innovate in order to enhance customer experience, leading integrated telco network PLDT Inc.'s (PLDT) wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) recently awarded the winners of its first-ever Hack the Bottleneck campaign, an internal innovation challenge designed to accelerate customer experience transformation.

The campaign drew over 100 entries from employees across various units, showcasing creative solutions to address customer pain points and improve operational efficiency. Of these, seven finalists emerged, and six employees were recognized for their bold and game-changing ideas. Winning concepts ranged from virtual request assistants and AI-powered project management tools to self-service solutions that enable faster and more efficient responses to customer concerns.

"Our goal was simple: To stop what slows us down, make it easier for our teams, and unlock smarter ways to serve our customers," said Brenda Dichoso, FVP and Head of Customer Experience at Smart. "The ideas we saw were creative, honest, and close to the heart -- and that is the spirit we envisioned for this program. We thank you for the courage to challenge the old ways and constantly look for new ways to deliver customer delight. Your dedication and ideas inspire us."

Entries were judged on feasibility, innovation, and impact, ensuring that winning ideas deliver measurable gains in customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Prizes were awarded to the top three winners and finalists.

For first prize winner Sonny Beltran of Smart's Network Service Operations, his personal experiences in helping others with their network concerns gave him the idea for his solution, the Self-Service Suite. "Through this solution, I want to assist as many clients as efficiently as possible," he said. Moving forward, Smart will pilot and operationalize selected ideas and sustain momentum through annual waves of the campaign.

This initiative is part of the PLDT Group's broader thrust to deliver fast and reliable mobile experiences and bring meaningful connections to customers nationwide. It also reinforces PLDT and Smart’s commitment to foster a culture of innovation and collaboration in the company, empowering teams to explore solutions together to enhance service delivery, as well as strengthen its role in building inclusive, technology-driven communities, helping bridge the digital divide and create opportunities for Filipinos to thrive in an increasingly connected world.

Globe Telecom: Driving Growth Through Strategic Investments

Globe Telecom enters the next phase of its digital and business transformation, demonstrating that strong financial discipline and operational efficiency can power growth even amid challenging market conditions. With a robust balance sheet and strengthened cash generation, Globe is well-positioned to make strategic investments that maximize impact and deliver value where it matters most.

Globe reported consolidated gross service revenues of ₱121.7 billion for the first nine months of 2025, with data-centric services contributing 88% of total revenue at ₱106.8 billion; net income for the same period reached ₱17.7 billion. These results reflect continued demand for mobile data, broadband, and enterprise digital solutions, validating Globe’s pivot toward a data-driven, digital-first business model.

Capital discipline remains central to Globe’s strategy. The company’s capital expenditures for the first nine months of 2025 totaled ₱31.4 billion, down 23% year-over-year and representing only 26% of gross service revenues. This efficient capital allocation allows Globe to prioritize high-impact investments in data-related projects, reaffirming Globe’s commitment to advancing digital capacity and expanding connectivity nationwide. By pursuing focused investments and innovation shaped around customer demand, Globe continues to empower more Filipinos to thrive in a digitally connected economy.

By mid-2025, Globe achieved positive free cash flow before dividends, earlier than expected, and aims to sustain and build on this for the remainder of the year. This strengthened cash position empowers Globe to respond swiftly to market opportunities, accelerate network and digital investments, and sustain long-term growth for its customers and stakeholders.

“Strengthening our financial position gives us the flexibility and confidence to make strategic investments in areas that will have the greatest impact, from expanding high-speed broadband and 5G to scaling enterprise solutions and digital platforms,” said Carl Cruz, President and CEO of Globe. “It allows us to act quickly on opportunities, deliver meaningful value to our customers, and ensure that Globe continues to be at the forefront of innovation and connectivity in the Philippines.”

Looking ahead, Globe is focused on delivering seamless connectivity, expanding its digital solutions portfolio, and driving enterprise innovation. This strategy ensures the company remains agile and resilient, converting financial strength into meaningful growth and sustained value for the Filipino people.

For more information about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

Sunday, December 21, 2025

Security Bank Strengthens Nationwide Presence With 372 Branches

Makati, Philippines – Security Bank Corporation continues to advance its reach and make banking more accessible to Filipinos with the opening of eight new branches in November alone, bringing its nationwide branch network to 372 branches.

The latest expansion strengthens Security Bank’s commitment to deliver BetterBanking by widening access to financial services and supporting the growing needs of individuals, entrepreneurs, and communities across the country.

In Luzon, the Bank opened its Congressional Extension Branch plus three new branches in Pampanga—Mexico, Mabalacat, and Subic Town—supporting fast-growing residential areas and key economic corridors in Central and Northern Luzon.

In the Visayas, Security Bank enhanced its presence through the opening of the Cebu–Basak Branch, located in a highly urbanized district that supports a dynamic commercial environment and a growing SME sector.

In Mindanao, new branches in Midsayap, Cotabato, and Davao City—including Davao–Damosa and Davao–Ecoland—further solidify the Bank’s footprint in major business districts and thriving residential hubs, extending financial access to communities, MSMEs, and local enterprises.

“These branch openings reinforce our vision to be a more customer-centric bank,” said Leslie Cham, Executive Vice President and Branch Banking Head at Security Bank. “Reaching 372 branches nationwide allows us to be closer to the communities we serve and deliver BetterBanking through more personalized service, modern facilities, and deeper local engagement.”

As Security Bank grows its nationwide presence, it remains focused on elevating the in-branch experience. New branches are designed to address evolving customer needs—from everyday transactions to long-term financial goals—supported by technology-enabled platforms that work seamlessly with the Bank’s digital channels.

“Modern banking is about balancing technology with empathy,” Cham shared. “Our branches are welcoming, inclusive spaces that integrate human connection with digital convenience. We want every customer to feel supported.”

“The branch of the future will be powered by data, enabled by technology, and brought to life by people,” he added. “Banking will continue to evolve—but its heart will always remain human.”

For more information on Security Bank’s products, services, and branch locations, visit www.securitybank.com or follow Security Bank on social media.