Security Bank Advances Sustainable Development Across the Philippines in 2025

In line with its mission to enrich lives, empower businesses, and build communities sustainably, Security Bank intensified its corporate social responsibility initiatives in 2025, delivering meaningful programs that created lasting impact across the Philippines. Through a strong focus on livelihood development, education, disaster response, culture, and environmental protection, the bank demonstrated its commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth.

Strengthening livelihoods remained a cornerstone of Security Bank’s community development efforts. In Aklan, the bank provided cacao seedlings to 40 local farmers, helping them diversify income sources and build long-term agricultural sustainability. Beyond material support, Security Bank also mentored 980 families nationwide, equipping them with financial literacy, entrepreneurial skills, and practical guidance to improve household resilience and economic stability. These initiatives directly contributed to empowering grassroots communities and supporting micro-level economic growth.

Security Bank also played a vital role in disaster response and recovery. In 2025, the bank extended aid to 661 families affected by natural disasters, providing timely assistance to help them rebuild and recover. This proactive approach underscored the institution’s commitment to standing with communities during times of crisis and ensuring that recovery efforts are both compassionate and sustainable.

Education continued to be a major priority for Security Bank. The institution donated a total of 901 classrooms to 153 public schools across the country, significantly improving learning environments for thousands of students. Complementing infrastructure support, Security Bank also provided free eye care services to 1,170 students, addressing a critical yet often overlooked barrier to effective learning. These education initiatives reinforced the bank’s belief that access to quality education is fundamental to long-term national development.

Beyond economic and educational programs, Security Bank actively supported culture and environmental sustainability. Cultural engagement programs reached more than 300 artists, helping preserve local heritage while fostering creative expression. On the environmental front, the bank planted 940 mangrove seedlings as part of a broader goal to plant 10,000 seedlings, contributing to coastal protection, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience.

Through these comprehensive initiatives in 2025, Security Bank strengthened institutions, expanded opportunities, and built stronger, more resilient communities. By aligning business purpose with social and environmental responsibility, the bank continues to play a meaningful role in driving sustainable development across the Philippines.

Vivo Philippines Brings Holiday Hope to Students Nationwide Through “MaVIVOng Pasko para sa Kabataan”

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Vivo Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to nation-building and youth empowerment through a nationwide corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative titled MaVIVOng Pasko para sa Kabataan (Bright Christmas for the Youth), conducted from December 12 to 16, 2025.

The multi-day holiday program reached nine public schools and two government centers across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, delivering much-needed assistance and spreading Christmas cheer to school communities with limited resources. Anchored on Vivo’s vision of inspiring and building brighter futures, the initiative aimed to provide meaningful support while fostering hope, unity, and service during the holiday season.

Designed to enrich learning environments, MaVIVOng Pasko para sa Kabataan focused on needs-based interventions to ensure that each beneficiary received assistance suited to their specific requirements. These included the distribution of school supplies, health and hygiene kits, food packs, and essential school equipment to help students and educators thrive beyond the holidays. Beneficiary institutions included Subangdaku Elementary School in Cebu, Bolilao Elementary School in Iloilo, DSWD Reception and Study Center for Children in Leyte, Tropical Village National High School in Cavite, Quesban Elementary School in Pangasinan, Santulan Elementary School in Malabon, San Juan Elementary School in Pampanga, Mabasa Elementary School in Nueva Vizcaya, Taguig Community and Evacuation Center Child Development Center, Pagatpat National High School in Cagayan de Oro, and Doña Asuncion Hizon Elementary School in Davao City.

According to Liu Lu, Brand Marketing Director of Vivo Philippines, the initiative reflects the brand’s deeper purpose, which extends beyond technological innovation. She shared that MaVIVOng Pasko para sa Kabataan is Vivo’s way of sharing hope and encouragement with young learners and educators nationwide, emphasizing the company’s belief that empowering the youth today helps shape a brighter tomorrow.

Educators from beneficiary schools expressed their gratitude for the program. Dr. Marc Airon Creus, Principal of Tropical Village National High School in General Trias, Cavite, highlighted how the initiative resonated with their mission of empowering every learner, noting the joy and appreciation felt by both students and faculty.

Through this initiative, Vivo Philippines strengthened its presence in communities nationwide through purposeful engagement and collective action. As the brand continues to grow, its dedication to social responsibility remains steadfast—demonstrating that meaningful innovation goes hand in hand with compassion, especially during the season of giving.

‘Bayanihan’ Impact: PLDT Posts Drop in Cable Theft in First 11 Months

Protecting telco infrastructure is crucial in ensuring that connectivity and digital services remain accessible and reliable for millions of Filipinos. As such, leading integrated telco network PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and its wireless arm, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), have intensified efforts to combat cable and telco equipment theft by strengthening partnerships with local government units, the police, and communities nationwide.

PLDT and Smart, through their Asset Protection and Security Risk Governance (APSRG) Group, have tightened their collaboration with barangays through the ramped-up rollout of the barangay-based asset protection project Bayanihan, with sessions conducted in Makati, Dagupan, Davao City, Liloan, Calamba, General Santos, Quezon City, Rodriguez in Rizal, Pasay, Cagayan de Oro, and Dasmarinas in 2025.

"Our intensified collaboration with barangays this year highlights the importance of bringing communities into the conversation when it comes to protecting our network,” said Leo Gonzales, Vice President and Head of Property, Facilities, and Asset Resiliency Management at PLDT and Smart. "Every cable and piece of equipment we safeguard helps pave the way for uninterrupted connectivity for their own homes and neighborhoods, as well as for businesses and institutions that rely on us daily. By working hand in hand with local leaders and residents, we are not simply preventing theft; we are also ensuring that digital services remain accessible and reliable for millions of Filipinos."

Col. Wilfredo Gonio, Head of PLDT and Smart’s Security Central Command & Administration Center, APSRG, added: "On the ground, these partnerships make a real difference. When barangays and local authorities actively help monitor, report incidents, or apprehend thieves, we can respond more quickly and prevent larger disruptions. This shared sense of responsibility empowers communities to protect the infrastructure that keeps them connected."

The initiative is part of the telco leader’s broader response to persistent theft and vandalism targeting its network. In 2024 alone, nearly 1,000 loss incidents were recorded, mostly involving copper cables. In certain areas in Manila, theft occurs as often as every three days.

In addition to material losses, these attacks also affect customers by disrupting services, leading to complaints and revenue loss. As such, the program aims to not just deter theft and vandalism but also empower residents with tools and knowledge to protect their communities, both physically and digitally.

Reflecting the impact of PLDT's asset protection efforts, the company recorded a 34% drop in apprehension incidents and a 24% decrease in apprehended suspects from January to November 2025, compared to the same period last year.

This underscores the effectiveness of the Group’s strengthened security measures, which include efforts to deter theft before it occurs. These results mark a critical milestone in the Group’s mission to curb losses, maintain service reliability, and uphold public trust.

Through its network protection and community security initiatives, the PLDT group is helping create safer, more resilient communities where digital inclusion can thrive, through a community-centric approach that strengthens trust, fosters accountability, and ensures that technology continues to serve as a bridge to progress for millions of Filipinos.

These initiatives are also aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

Filipino Artists Spotlight Sustainability in Security Bank–AAP Art Competition

Makati City, Philippines — Security Bank Corporation, in partnership with the Art Association of the Philippines (AAP), brought together Filipino artists from across the country through the inaugural “Paint for the Planet” Art Competition, culminating in an awarding ceremony at Security Bank Centre in Makati City.
The nationwide competition drew more than 300 submissions, underscoring the role of art as a powerful platform for reflection, dialogue, and action amid growing environmental and climate challenges.

With the theme “The Art of Sustainability: People, Planet, and Prosperity,” participating artists were invited to interpret environmental stewardship, inclusive growth, and shared responsibility—translating complex sustainability issues into compelling visual narratives.

“Sustainability is not just a concept for us—it is central to how we think about progress”, said Tanya Ansaldo-Deakin, First Vice President and Corporate Communications Division Head of Security Bank. “As climate impacts become more tangible—through floods, extreme heat, and weather disruptions—we are reminded that progress must move hand in hand with care for people and the planet. Through your work, you brought that message to life.”

Fidel Sarmiento, President of the Art Association of the Philippines, also addressed the finalists and guests:

“This competition is a testament to the Filipino artist’s ability to inspire change and spark important conversations. Through your art, you have shown how creativity can be a powerful force for sustainability and nation-building. We are proud to stand with Security Bank in supporting artists who use their talent for a greater purpose.”

Honoring excellence and advocacy

The awarding ceremony recognized artists whose works stood out for both artistic excellence and their powerful sustainability messages.

Top winners:

• First Place (PHP200,000): Clark Manalo, “Holding Harmony” (oil, 24” x 30”)
• Second Place (PHP150,000): Nino Cris Odosis, “Unboxing Nature’s Gift” (acrylic, 24” x 30”)
• Third Place (PHP100,000): Edu Perreras, “The Future is in Our Hands” (oil, 30” x 24”)

Five artists received Honorable Mentions, each awarded PHP20,000:

• Ma. Jezshell Nicole Azares, “City in the Garden”
• Armando Flaviano, “RE”
• Ian Maigan, “Prosperitree”
• Johann Padiernos, “Cradled”
• Pedro Velasquez, Jr., “Pag-Asa, Pagbunga ng Likas ng Yaman”

The 12 remaining finalists received PHP5,000 as a token of appreciation for their outstanding contributions.

Art as a platform for sustainability

“The artworks filled our spaces with color, emotion, and hope,” Ansaldo-Deakin added.

“At Security Bank, BetterBanking is about people at the center—and using our platform to support initiatives that create meaningful impact.”

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

The Vivo V60: A Premium Yet Practical Holiday Gift That Delivers All Year Round

Finding a gift that feels both meaningful and practical can be challenging, especially during the holiday season. This year, Vivo makes the choice easier with the Vivo V60—a smartphone designed to offer premium features, dependable performance, and long-term value beyond the holidays.

Sleek, stylish, and thoughtfully engineered, the Vivo V60 is built for everyday moments. Whether it’s capturing memories, staying connected, or enjoying entertainment on the go, the device balances form and function without carrying a flagship-level price tag.

The Vivo V60 is an ideal gift for anyone on your list—family members, friends, or even yourself. Its refined design gives off premium vibes, while its performance-focused features ensure it keeps up with modern lifestyles. For content creators, travelers, and everyday users, the V60 stands out with its impressive camera system. Equipped with a 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera and a 50MP ZEISS Main Camera, it captures sharp, detailed photos whether shooting close-up portraits or distant scenes.

The viewing experience is just as impressive. The V60 features a 120Hz AMOLED display that delivers smooth scrolling, vibrant colors, and immersive visuals for streaming, gaming, and browsing. Powering all of this is a robust 6500mAh BlueVolt battery designed to last through long days of use. With 90W fast charging, users can quickly power up and stay productive without long waiting times.

Running on OriginOS 6, the Vivo V60 introduces a refined visual interface, enhanced system performance, and practical AI-driven features that improve everyday usability. The result is a smoother, smarter, and more intuitive smartphone experience.

User feedback reinforces the V60’s appeal. Jaymark Marmol from Iriga City praised the device for its camera clarity and smooth performance, particularly for live streaming and vlogging. Another user, Euden Valdez, shared her excitement over the phone’s design and usability, noting that it felt premium enough to make her reconsider gifting it away.

Priced starting at Php 28,999, the Vivo V60 delivers a compelling balance of style, performance, and practicality. Available at Vivo concept stores, kiosks, and online platforms, the V60 also comes with a special promo: purchase until January 10, 2026 for a chance to win a brand-new Jaecoo J7SHS SUV.

This holiday season, give a gift that continues to impress long after the celebrations end—the Vivo V60.