PLDT, NCIP, and Tagbanua ICCs Strengthen Partnership for Palawan Resiliency Submarine Cable Project

PLDT Inc., together with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and three Tagbanua Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) in Palawan, recently signed Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) supporting the implementation of the Palawan Resiliency Submarine Cable Project. The agreements mark another important step toward improving digital connectivity in the province while ensuring the protection of Indigenous Peoples’ rights and ancestral domains.

The MOAs were signed with the Tagbanua Central ICC in Napsan, Puerto Princesa; the Tagbanua Calamian ICC in Busuanga; and the Tagbanua Tandalunen ICC in Sibaltan, El Nido. The partnership demonstrates a shared commitment among PLDT, NCIP, and the Tagbanua communities to balance technological progress with cultural preservation and environmental responsibility.

The Palawan Resiliency Submarine Cable Project aims to strengthen and expand PLDT’s network infrastructure in the province by adding new submarine cable routes. These additional routes are expected to enhance the reliability and resiliency of telecommunications services in Palawan, particularly during natural disasters, service interruptions, or network outages. With improved connectivity, residents, businesses, tourism stakeholders, schools, and government agencies across Palawan can benefit from faster and more stable internet services.

As Palawan continues to grow as a major tourism and economic hub, resilient digital infrastructure has become increasingly important. Reliable internet access supports not only business operations and tourism activities but also education, healthcare, emergency response, and communication services for local communities.

A key highlight of the MOAs is the recognition and protection of Indigenous Peoples’ rights throughout the duration of the project. PLDT and its partners emphasized their commitment to adhering to cultural, social, and environmental safeguards while conducting project activities in areas connected to ancestral domains. This includes ongoing coordination and consultation with the Tagbanua ICCs to ensure that their traditions, heritage, and environmental concerns are respected.

The collaboration reflects the importance of inclusive development, where infrastructure projects are implemented through meaningful engagement with local communities. By working closely with Indigenous groups and government agencies, PLDT aims to deliver long-term connectivity improvements while promoting responsible and sustainable development practices.

The signing of the agreements also highlights how public and private sector partnerships can contribute to bridging the digital divide in geographically isolated areas such as Palawan. Through initiatives like the Palawan Resiliency Submarine Cable Project, PLDT continues to support the country’s growing demand for stronger and more dependable digital connectivity while fostering respect for local communities and cultural heritage.

Brightening the Back-to-School Rush With Affordable Finds From Anko

As the new school year approaches, families across the Philippines are once again preparing for the annual back-to-school rush. From completing long shopping lists to navigating crowded malls and busy schedules, the season can quickly become stressful for both parents and students. But for many Filipino families, one brand is making the experience easier, more organized, and even enjoyable — Anko.

Known for its stylish, practical, and budget-friendly home and lifestyle products, Anko has become a go-to shopping destination for school essentials. The Australian retailer offers a wide range of affordable items designed to help students stay organized, comfortable, and excited for the school year ahead.

From colorful notebooks and pencil cases to desk organizers and sticky notes, Anko’s collection combines function with creativity. Even simple school supplies feature playful, stylish designs that can inspire students and make studying feel more engaging. Parents looking to create productive study spaces at home can also find pegboards, organizers, and storage solutions that help reduce clutter and improve focus.

One of Anko’s biggest advantages is affordability. Many of its school-ready products are priced below ₱100, allowing families to shop for essentials without overspending. Items such as erasers, sharpeners, stationery, and study accessories range from as low as ₱20 to ₱100, making it easier for parents to stick to a budget while still giving kids products they will enjoy using every day.

Aside from classroom supplies, Anko also offers practical mealtime essentials that are ideal for busy school days. Durable lunchboxes and reusable drink bottles are designed to handle daily use while remaining attractive and fun for students. For parents, these reliable options help simplify meal preparation and ensure children are equipped for long school days.

To make the season even more exciting, Anko will host a free Bento Box Workshop on June 6 at its Ayala Malls Feliz branch. The workshop aims to help families create fun and nutritious school meals that children will look forward to eating. Interested participants can register through the Anko Club app or by following Anko Philippines on Instagram and Anko Philippines Facebook for updates and exclusive member activities.

With affordable products, stylish designs, and family-friendly experiences, Anko is helping Filipino families start the school year brighter, more organized, and less stressful.

Vivo Philippines Launches GEN V Campus Ambassador Program for NCR Students

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — What if your journey into leadership, marketing, and brand building could begin while you are still in college? That is exactly the opportunity Vivo Philippines is offering through the launch of its Campus Ambassador Program Search, officially kicking off on May 27 at 12 noon in Robinsons Manila.

The initiative introduces GEN V, a student-led ambassador community under Vivo Club, designed to provide university students with hands-on industry experience beyond the classroom. Through this program, students from colleges and universities across the National Capital Region (NCR) can gain practical exposure to branding, digital marketing, communication, and campaign execution while still pursuing their studies.

According to Liu Lu, Brand Marketing Director of Vivo Philippines, the program aims to help students develop valuable skills early in their academic journey.

“Through this program, students gain practical industry experience while still in school, giving them a head start in building confidence, leadership skills, and future career opportunities,” Liu Lu shared.

Selected GEN V ambassadors will receive mentorship and training directly from Vivo Philippines marketing professionals. Participants will also enjoy a monthly cash incentive of Php 5,000 for 12 months, along with exclusive access to Vivo product launches and major brand events. These experiences are expected to provide students with firsthand exposure to real-world marketing activations and industry practices.

Beyond the training and incentives, the program may also open doors to internship and employment opportunities after graduation. Outstanding participants may even gain access to global learning opportunities, including possible international exposure and exchange programs, depending on availability.

The Campus Ambassador Program is open to college students currently enrolled in NCR-based universities and colleges, particularly first- to third-year students who are confident, expressive, and eager to explore leadership roles.

Auditions will take place through Vivo Mall Tour activations across key locations in NCR, including Robinsons Manila on May 27, Market! Market! on May 31, Ayala Malls Feliz on June 19, and SM Fairview on July 4. The finals and awarding ceremony are scheduled for July 12 at SM Mall of Asia.

As Vivo Philippines searches for its first batch of GEN V ambassadors, the program stands as more than just a campus activity. It is an opportunity for students to take their first real step into leadership, creativity, and the world of professional brand building while still in school.

GCash Pushes Responsible AI as Key to Inclusive Growth at Philippine National Innovation Day 2026

Responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) is critical in driving inclusive and sustainable growth, as it can address persistent gaps in financial access and literacy, particularly in a mobile-first yet risk-exposed region like Southeast Asia. This was the key message of GCash, the country’s leading finance app and largest cashless ecosystem, as it joined policymakers and industry leaders at the 2026 National Innovation Day.

Held at the Diamond Hotel Manila, the event, organized by the Depdev National Innovation Council in partnership with ASEAN, brought together key stakeholders under the theme “AI for Growth, Opportunity, and Sustainability in ASEAN (AGOS)”, focusing on how emerging technologies can be scaled safely across the region.

During the discussions, Mynt chief data officer Sara Venturina highlighted how GCash is leveraging data and AI to help deliver equitable fintech access to Filipinos. “If we don’t use technology responsibly, it will lead to more inequality,” Venturina said. “At Gcash, we harness the power of data and AI to help move Filipinos toward financial progress, while ensuring that inclusion remains at the center of innovation.”

She emphasized that GCash’s AI strategy is grounded in improving customer outcomes while upholding strict standards for data privacy and protection. This includes carefully evaluating how technologies are deployed, ensuring efficiency without compromising accessibility or trust.

As conversations around AI governance continue to evolve, Venturina also pointed to the need for stronger industry-wide standards. “As AI scales, the question is not just how we build these systems, but how we ensure they remain fair, safe, and accessible,” she said, citing the importance of standardized testing and evaluation frameworks.

She added that accountability remains constant regardless of where data is stored, reinforcing GCash’s commitment to safeguarding user information.

“Whether the data resides locally or in a data center, the responsibility to protect that data remains with us, and we take that seriously.”

GCash also highlighted the growing role of emerging technologies that enable the safe use of data while preserving user privacy, allowing institutions to innovate without compromising trust.

The broader event featured discussions on national innovation policy and digital transformation, with key insights from government leaders, including Department of Science and Technology Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum, Department of Education Secretary Atty. Juan Edgardo Angara and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

As AI adoption accelerates across the Philippines and the ASEAN region, GCash reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside government and industry partners to advance responsible innovation—strengthening financial literacy, enhancing data governance, and expanding access to digital financial services for more Filipinos.

For more information, visit https://www.gcash.com.

Converge, Danao City Collaborate for Digital Transformation

Danao City, Cebu, Philippines — Leading fixed broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. (PSE: CNVRG) - through its corporate and large enterprise unit, the Converge Global Business - and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Danao City recently formalized an alliance to fortify the city’s digital framework and optimize civic service delivery.

Through this agreement, Danao City will integrate high-capacity Dedicated Internet Access (DIA) from Converge as its primary backbone. This mission-critical connectivity supports the city’s digital transformation roadmap, ensuring seamless operational performance across all government departments.

“Back in 2023, we envisioned and launched our drive to build an empowered and well-connected Danao, investing decisively in digital infrastructure to turn that vision into reality,” said Mayor Ramon "Nito" Durano III. “Today, we have connected 27 of our 42 barangays with reliable internet access. We are now pushing forward to achieve 100% connectivity within the year.”

This agreement underscores a mutual commitment to deploying future-ready solutions within the public sector. The implementation of enterprise-grade fiber infrastructure is designed to facilitate faster communication, secure data management, and a more agile response to the needs of the community.

“This collaboration with Danao City reflects our continued commitment to enabling digital transformation in the public sector through reliable and scalable connectivity solutions,” said Shion Canen, AVP & Head for Enterprise Sales, VisMin at Converge Global Business. “We remain focused on supporting local government units in building stronger digital foundations for more efficient public service.”

This collaboration accelerates the evolution of Danao City into a premier Smart City. By leveraging the robust network of Converge, the LGU is establishing the necessary environment for advanced, integrated technologies that will redefine the digital experience for every Danaoanon.

Jaive Joseph B. Roble, City ICT Officer of Danao, added, “This collaboration with Converge allows us to strengthen our digital infrastructure and improve the efficiency of our operations. Reliable connectivity is essential as we continue to modernize our systems and enhance service delivery to our constituents.”

This milestone represents a shared investment in a digital-first ecosystem for Danao City. Moving beyond basic connectivity, the cooperation serves as a catalyst for sustainable technological growth, ensuring the city remains resilient and competitive in an increasingly digital world.

Learn more about Converge Global Business products and services by visiting www.convergeict.com/enterprise