Vivo V80 Debuts with ENHYPEN’s JUNGWON, JAKE, and SUNGHOON as Vivo Friends

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Global smartphone brand Vivo has officially introduced the all-new Vivo V80, a stylish portrait flagship smartphone designed to combine cutting-edge photography, fashion, and personal expression. Adding excitement to the launch, Vivo announced ENHYPEN members JUNGWON, JAKE, and SUNGHOON as its newest Vivo Friends across multiple Asia-Pacific markets.

The collaboration highlights Vivo's commitment to connecting with younger generations through technology, creativity, and individuality.

Shine as We Are: A Celebration of Individuality

Inspired by the campaign message “Shine as We Are,” the Vivo V80 encourages users to embrace their uniqueness and express themselves confidently.

One of the smartphone's standout features is its stunning Starwish Purple colorway, inspired by the brilliance of a galaxy filled with stars. Its shimmering design symbolizes the individuality and radiance that everyone possesses.

Through this collaboration, JUNGWON, JAKE, and SUNGHOON bring their distinctive personalities and fashion-forward styles to Vivo's latest smartphone campaign, reflecting the creativity and confidence of today's Gen Z consumers.

Professional Portrait Photography with ZEISS Technology

Beyond its stylish appearance, the Vivo V80 focuses on delivering impressive portrait photography capabilities.

Equipped with ZEISS Center-Stage Portrait technology, including 100mm and 85mm portrait features, the smartphone allows users to capture professional-looking portraits with enhanced detail and artistic depth.

The device also introduces AI Creative Camera capabilities, giving photography enthusiasts additional opportunities to explore creative compositions and capture memorable experiences.

During the campaign, the three ENHYPEN members showcased the smartphone's photography capabilities through a series of portraits highlighting their personalities and authentic expressions.

These features position the Vivo V80 as an appealing option for content creators, photography enthusiasts, and social media users seeking a combination of style and imaging innovation.

Vivo V80 Price, Pre-Order Details, and ENHYPEN Fan Event

The Vivo V80 starts at Php 42,999 and is available for pre-order until November 13, 2026, through Vivo physical stores nationwide, the official Vivo e-store, and the Vivo Store app.

Meanwhile, Filipino ENGENEs have another reason to celebrate. JUNGWON, JAKE, and SUNGHOON are scheduled to visit the Philippines on November 12, 2026, at the Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia, for an exclusive gathering with 100 Vivo V80 customers.

With its ZEISS-powered portrait capabilities, elegant design, and exciting ENHYPEN collaboration, the Vivo V80 brings together mobile innovation, entertainment, and self-expression.

Beyond Data: AdSpark Uses AI to Understand What Moves Filipino Consumers

AdSpark is harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) to help brands better understand what drives Filipino consumers by transforming behavioral data and local market insights into actionable intelligence. This approach enables businesses to better anticipate consumer responses, refine their marketing strategies, and make more informed advertising decisions.

Central to this approach is AdSpark's partnership with Predikta, an AI-powered behavioral simulation platform developed by Netopia AI. Integrated with AdSpark's marketing and advertising technology (MADTECH) capabilities, the platform uses AI to analyze behavioral data and simulate how audiences might respond to different campaign messages, helping brands evaluate their strategies before launch.

Before formalizing the partnership, AdSpark back-tested 200 campaigns, comparing behavioral simulations with actual campaign results. The exercise assessed whether the platform could help marketers evaluate different messages and identify promising approaches before committing their media budgets.

AdSpark President and CEO Jose Manuel “Manny” Fernando discussed this capability during his plenary presentation, “From Knowing People to Moving People: The Filipino Intelligence Advantage,” at DigiCon 2026. He highlighted how combining advanced technology with a deeper understanding of Filipino consumers can help brands move beyond identifying their audiences toward understanding what influences their decisions.

While digital platforms have made it easier to identify audiences and track their behavior, these insights do not always explain what motivates people. Consumers with similar profiles may respond differently to the same message, depending on their needs, responsibilities, and priorities, making local market understanding essential to developing campaigns that resonate with Filipino audiences.

“When we connect that intelligence with behavioral simulation, creative thinking, and media expertise, we move beyond simply identifying who to reach. We can begin exploring how people might respond, and use those insights to make better decisions about how we engage them,” Fernando said.

In line with DigiCon's theme of interoperability, Fernando also emphasized the importance of connecting consumer data, creative development, and media planning rather than treating them as separate activities. “The opportunity is not simply to collect more data or add another tool. It's to connect what we know, what we can learn, and what we do with it,” he added.

AdSpark is a Filipino digital advertising and marketing technology agency under Brave Connective, part of Globe-backed 917Ventures. Its adoption of AI-powered solutions reflects Globe's broader commitment to harnessing artificial intelligence to drive innovation, create meaningful business value, and develop solutions that respond to the evolving needs of Filipino consumers and businesses.

DA-ATI 10, PLDT, Smart Bring FarmTech to Oroquieta Farmers, Expanding Digital Agriculture Access

Farmers from the LIBADATATAMA Irrigators Association in Oroquieta City are gaining access to digital tools and agricultural learning resources with a FarmTech package turned over by the Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) Region 10. FarmTech is part of the Digital Farmers Program (DFP), the digital inclusion program for farmers by the DA-ATI in partnership with PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart).

With nearly 900 members and almost 50 years of serving the farming community, LIBADATATAMA has built a strong network among farmers in the area. Through FarmTech, the association can further strengthen this network by making digital learning and agricultural information more accessible to its members.

The FarmTech package provides digital tools and agriculture-related learning resources that help farmers explore practical farming techniques, access relevant information, and discover digital solutions that support their day-to-day farming activities.

For Angie Yañez, the association's treasurer, digital technology has become a valuable way to learn and share knowledge with fellow farmers. Since she started using digital tools in 2022, Yañez has shared what she learns with other farmers, showing them how technology can support their work in the field.

For Leahpen Saratao, the biggest benefit is easier access to information. Through smartphone applications, farmers can learn about rice varieties, locate suppliers, and check crop information such as the number of days before harvest.

“FarmTech is a great help to us because it makes learning and applying farming practices easier. We no longer have to wait for someone to visit our farms to teach us. We can learn and apply these practices ourselves,” Saratao shared.

By providing farmers with access to digital tools and learning resources, DA-ATI 10, PLDT, and Smart are helping strengthen digital literacy in farming communities and enabling farmers to make more informed decisions for their livelihoods.

Through initiatives like the DFP, PLDT and Smart continue to support United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1: No Hunger by training Filipino farmers to use mobile and digital technologies to improve farm productivity, market access, and household income; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by strengthening farmers' skills and livelihood opportunities; and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure by expanding access to digital tools and technology in rural communities.

Vivo V80 Opens Pre-Orders in the Philippines, Offering Up to Php 2,000 Discount and Exclusive Freebies

Vivo Philippines has officially opened pre-orders for the new Vivo V80, bringing together advanced portrait photography, distinctive design, and personalized smartphone features. Available through physical stores nationwide, the Vivo e-store, and the Vivo Store app, the device starts at Php 42,999, with exclusive promotional offers running until November 13, 2026.

The Vivo V80 comes in two configurations: 8GB RAM with 128GB storage for Php 42,999 and 8GB RAM with 256GB storage for Php 47,999.

Customers who pre-order during the promotional period can enjoy a Php 2,000 discount, limited-edition Vivo Buds Air3 worth Php 1,799, Gold Vivo membership privileges, six months of broken-screen insurance and warranty, and six months of 100GB Google One cloud storage for new subscribers.
ZEISS Photography for Creative Portraits

One of the standout features of the Vivo V80 is its ZEISS co-engineered camera system. It comes with a 50-megapixel ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera and ZEISS 85mm and 100mm Center-Stage Portrait options, giving photography enthusiasts more flexibility when capturing portraits.

The device also introduces AI-powered creative tools, including studio-inspired lighting effects, Creative Sticker Collage, and CCD Flash Portrait. These features allow users to experiment with different photography styles and give their images a distinctive look.

Premium Design Inspired by the Stars
The Vivo V80 features cold-carved glass, an aerospace-grade aluminum frame, and smoothly contoured edges. It is available in Starwish Purple, which uses Laser Holographic Lithography to create a galaxy-inspired visual effect, and Wander Green, featuring subtle tones that shift with the light.

OriginOS 7 Brings More Personalization

Powered by OriginOS 7, the smartphone offers four customizable themes: Wiggle, Pet Pals, Glint, and StickIt. These features allow users to personalize wallpapers, interactive elements, and stickers according to their preferences.

For flexible payment options, Home Credit offers the Vivo V80 for as low as Php 85 per day over 18 months. Customers can also receive an additional Php 500 discount voucher using the code V80HC500.

With its combination of ZEISS portrait photography, premium aesthetics, and customizable software, the Vivo V80 aims to deliver a personalized smartphone experience. Interested buyers can pre-order through Vivo's official sales channels until November 13, 2026.

For more information and the latest announcements, visit https://www.vivoglobal.ph.

Globe Advances Energy Efficiency with 570 Hybrid and Electric Vehicles

Globe is strengthening energy efficiency across its operations through investments in cleaner transportation and technologies that help reduce emissions, manage energy-related risks, and support its net zero ambitions. As of August 2026, Globe had sourced at least 570 hybrid and electric vehicles across its employee car plans, shuttles, and company fleet. Of these, 135 are leased hybrid vehicles for field sales and operations, with plans to increase the company fleet to at least 500 electric vehicles by 2028.

To support this transition, Globe has installed electric vehicle charging stations in five of its buildings, with plans to expand charging infrastructure to more facilities. These investments are part of the company's broader efforts to improve resource efficiency and reduce reliance on conventional fuel-powered transportation.

"At Globe, sustainability is our purpose in action. We continue to embed climate action into the way we invest and operate because building more resilient operations goes hand in hand with reducing our environmental impact. Every step we take toward cleaner and greener operations, including our company fleet, helps strengthen our business while contributing to a more sustainable Philippines," said Jerry Cabiles, Vice President for Supply Chain at Globe.

Globe is also integrating climate considerations into its investment decisions through a shadow Internal Carbon Price (ICP) of USD 20 per tonne of carbon dioxide. This mechanism helps the company account for the environmental impact of its investments and has supported the prioritization of energy-efficient technologies, including inverter air conditioners and hybrid and electric vehicles over conventional alternatives.

These initiatives form part of Globe's broader decarbonization efforts, which have contributed to progress beyond its near-term greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets. The company recorded a 15% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions against a target of 4.2%, alongside a 9.5% reduction in Scope 3 emissions against a target of 2.5%.

Globe's investments also support the Philippines' broader climate ambitions, including its commitments under the Paris Agreement. By embedding energy efficiency into its operations and investment decisions, the company continues to pursue practical measures that support business sustainability while contributing to the country's transition toward a lower-carbon economy.

Femme Brings Campus-Inspired Praktikal U to Market! Market! With Shuvee Etrata on November 7

Taguig City, Philippines – Femme, a Filipino hygiene brand known for its affordable and high-quality care essentials, is bringing Praktikal U, a campus-inspired experience for young Filipinas, to the Market! Market! Activity Center in Taguig City on November 7, 2026. Centered on practical everyday choices and experiences that shape womanhood, the event will feature learning sessions, interactive booths, and a special appearance by celebrity and Femme brand ambassador Shuvee Etrata.

Styled after campus life, Praktikal U invites the public to join activities that reflect Filipinas' experiences as they navigate different stages of growing up. Attendees can explore interactive booths, learn more about Femme products, and join segments that highlight practical, everyday choices.

A key component of the program is PodClass, a series of discussions on self-confidence, personal growth, women's health, and other experiences that shape womanhood. The “Podfessors” for the sessions are influencers Kevin Montillano, Sela Guia, Aira Lopez, Dani Buenvenida, Eryka Lucas, and Jy Marie, who will share their insights and perspectives, providing an accessible space for participants to exchange ideas and engage with subjects relevant to their everyday lives.

Shuvee will share personal experiences and advice in an onstage segment. She will also spend time with the day’s batch of classmates through fun activities and a meet-and-greet. The program will also feature classroom-inspired games, including Pop Quiz and Girl Math.

The event builds on Femme’s “Your Bes Femme” positioning, which presents the brand as a companion to women in their daily routines and personal care. Femme defines being practical as understanding personal needs, weighing available choices, and choosing what works best for each lifestyle.

“We recognize that growing up comes with different experiences, questions, and decisions, and we believe young Filipinas deserve spaces where they can learn, share, and feel understood. Through Praktikal U, we want to bring practical tips closer to them, while making the experience enjoyable through activities and opportunities to connect with others,” said Jazel Marielli A. Ramos Yeo, Marketing Communications Manager of SCPA.

“Comfort and confidence are part of how women approach their daily routines. We hope Praktikal U brings these perspectives into conversations about personal care and the choices women make for themselves,” she added.

Students, young professionals, and other interested Filipinas are invited to take part in Praktikal U and its discussions and activities. Through its combination of learning sessions and interactive segments, the event aims to bring young women together around topics and experiences relevant to their everyday lives.

Femme Praktikal U runs on November 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, at the Market! Market! Activity Center in Taguig City. Participants can enjoy full access to the event by purchasing the exclusive product bundle, which includes a Praktikal U passport and ID. Selected areas, such as the pouch and patch booth, will be accessible without a bundle purchase.

For more information, interested participants may visit Femme's official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Roblox Appoints Joel Neoh as Managing Director for Southeast Asia and Oceania

MANILA, Philippines – Roblox, the global immersive platform for gaming and creation, announces the appointment of Joel Neoh as Managing Director, Southeast Asia and Oceania. Neoh joined Roblox this October and is looking to grow the company’s presence in the region, foster partnerships, support the creator ecosystem, and align the global product and business priorities with local market demands. He will serve as Roblox’s senior business lead in SEA and OCE, overseeing Roblox’s strategy in these two regions and working with local teams and partners.

A core focus of the role will be to champion a growing community of Roblox developers and creators, help local studios make use of Roblox’s tools to scale and find commercial success, and familiarise players and parents in the region with the brand. With a young, digitally native population and a rapidly evolving digital ecosystem with a strong focus on safety, Southeast Asia and Oceania represents a significant opportunity for long-term growth.

Commenting on his new role as Managing Director, Southeast Asia and Oceania, Neoh said: “I’ve spent my career building companies across this region, and I’ve seen first-hand the creativity, optimism and entrepreneurial energy here. We’re at a moment where technology is making it easier than ever for people to move from simply consuming digital experiences to creating them. That’s what excites me most about Roblox. We have an opportunity to help a new generation of creators across Southeast Asia and Oceania turn ideas into experiences, communities and businesses that can reach the world. As we grow, keeping young people safe and working closely with parents, regulators and local communities will remain central to everything we do. I believe this region can become one of the most important sources of creativity on Roblox, helping reimagine the way people come together through play and creation.”

Zhen Fang, VP of International at Roblox, said: "Southeast Asia and Oceania are important regions for Roblox within APAC, with a vibrant and fast-growing community of creators and players. We are committed to the region for the long term, and we will keep investing in our local teams, creators, and partners here. Joel has built and scaled businesses across the region for two decades, and his entrepreneurial experience and strong ties to the local tech ecosystem make him the right leader to guide the next phase of our growth across these regions."

Neoh is an entrepreneur and investor with two decades of experience founding, building, and scaling technology companies across Asia Pacific, spanning digital media, e-commerce, fintech, consumer health, and AI. He founded GroupsMore in Malaysia, which merged with Groupon ahead of its IPO, and went on to lead Groupon Asia Pacific. He also founded Fave, a popular Southeast Asian fintech and consumer payments platform that scaled to 10M+ users before its acquisition by Pine Labs in 2021. Most recently, he was Managing Director at Prenetics, leading its consumer health businesses. An active investor, Neoh has backed 50+ startups across Asia, particularly in consumer technology, and is a Founding Partner of First Move, an early-stage venture capital platform supporting entrepreneurs across Southeast Asia apart from also most recently being an investor and involved in launching IM8 .

HUAWEI nova 16s Series Raises the Bar for Selfies with 200MP Camera, AI Features, and Massive 7,000mAh Battery

Manila, Philippines – Smartphone photography gets a major upgrade as HUAWEI introduces the nova 16s Series, combining advanced camera technology, AI-powered imaging tools, 5G connectivity, and long-lasting battery performance. Dubbed the “King of AI Selfies,” the latest lineup aims to redefine how users capture, create, and share everyday moments.

Leading the series is the HUAWEI nova 16s Pro, featuring an industry-exclusive Front True-to-Color Camera designed to deliver lifelike skin tones and more accurate colors, even in challenging lighting conditions. Its 50MP Ultra Portrait Camera also supports an industry-first 0.8x–5x Selfie Zoom, allowing users to capture everything from group selfies to detailed close-up portraits.

The smartphone takes photography further with AI-powered features such as AI Best Expression, AI Move, and AI De-Glare. These tools help users improve group photos, adjust image composition, and remove unwanted reflections.

On the rear, the Nova 16s Pro boasts a powerful 200MP RYYB Ultra-Large Sensor Main Camera with a 1/1.28-inch sensor and F1.8 aperture. Designed for detailed photography, it captures brighter, sharper images, especially in low-light conditions. Rear True-to-Color technology and AI Composition further enhance the photography experience.

Beyond cameras, the nova 16s Series is built for demanding everyday use. Its massive 7,000mAh battery supports extended streaming and social media browsing, while 100W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo can deliver up to 40% charge in just 15 minutes. The device also features 5G connectivity, an adaptive 1–120Hz display, and EMUI 16 with the enhanced Celia AI Assistant.

Its premium design includes Kunlun Glass, IP65 dust- and splash-water resistance, and an aerospace-grade aluminum alloy mid-frame.

Meanwhile, HUAWEI is inviting Filipino creators to join the #TrueColorsSelfieChallenge on TikTok until November 12, 2026. Fifty eligible participants with the highest-viewed entries can each win a HUAWEI nova 16s Pro.

The HUAWEI nova 16s Pro (12GB + 256GB) is available for pre-order at PHP 39,999, while the standard nova 16s (12GB + 256GB) is priced at PHP 29,999. Early buyers can enjoy PHP 5,000 discounts and gift bundles worth up to PHP 14,997.

With flagship-inspired photography, intelligent features, and impressive battery capacity, the HUAWEI nova 16s Series offers a compelling option for Filipinos looking to upgrade their smartphone experience.

For more information and pre-order details, visit the official HUAWEI Philippines website.

As AI Reshapes Customer Service, PLDT and Smart Bet on Human Skills

As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded in customer service and business operations, PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications, Inc. believe the companies that will gain the most from the technology will not necessarily be those that automate the fastest, but those that best combine AI with human judgment, empathy, and trust.

“The future is not about choosing between AI and people. It's about using AI to help our people do what they do best. Technology can help us move faster, work smarter, and serve customers better, but trust, empathy, and human judgment remain irreplaceable. That's why our approach at PLDT and Smart is to put AI in the hands of our people, not in place of them,” said Butch Jimenez, Chief Operating Officer of PLDT.

The topic comes as businesses worldwide grapple with the implications of generative AI on jobs, productivity, and customer engagement. While automation is increasingly handling routine tasks, industry leaders argue that the technology is making uniquely human capabilities even more valuable.

These issues were explored during “The Human Edge in the Age of AI,” a special edition of the PEG-Usapan Natin learning series for employees and stakeholders held as part of PLDT and Smart’s Customer Experience Month celebration. The discussion brought together leaders from business, technology, and customer experience to examine how organizations can harness AI while preserving meaningful human connections.

For Haidee Enriquez, CEO of MicroSourcing Group and President of the Customer Experience Association of the Philippines (CXAP), AI is fundamentally changing the role of people in the workplace and the skills organizations will need to succeed.

“AI isn't making people irrelevant. It's changing where they create the most value. As technology takes on more routine tasks, people will increasingly focus on solving complex problems, managing sensitive customer interactions, building relationships, and making decisions that require human judgment.”

Enriquez emphasized the growing importance of developing T-shaped professionals — individuals who combine deep expertise in a particular field with broader capabilities in technology, analytics, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration.

“The workforce of the future needs to be T-shaped. Having deep expertise in one area will remain important, but people also need the ability to work across disciplines, adapt to new technologies, and understand how AI can improve outcomes. Ultimately, your value will increasingly come from what you know, how you think, and how effectively you use technology.”

That view was echoed by Lloyd Manaloto, Smart Officer-in-Charge, who argued that the discussion around AI should move beyond automation and focus on delivering better customer outcomes. “AI helps us process information faster, but customers don't measure us by how fast our systems work. They measure us by how well we solve their problems. The opportunity is to use AI to understand customers better so we can deliver experiences that are more relevant, more responsive, and ultimately more valuable. At the end of the day, AI is a tool.”

As customer expectations continue to rise, businesses are under pressure to deliver faster resolutions, more personalized interactions, and seamless experiences across channels. Yet industry leaders caution that speed and efficiency alone are not enough.

“Technology has a huge space to help us do our jobs better, to help keep our customers happier, or make them happier with our service. But, at the same time, we still have to maintain that human experience, where customers continue to have the option to speak with a live person and not a bot,” said Abigail Ho-Torres, Chief Marketing Officer of Ikigai Philippines and customer experience advocate.

From a technology perspective, Naveen Asrani, Head of AI Acceleration for Banking, FSI and Digital at AWS, said AI's greatest impact could be its ability to help organizations better anticipate customer needs, reduce friction across customer journeys, and build trust at scale.

Human-centered AI augments people; it doesn't replace them. The goal of enterprise AI isn't to take humans out of the workflow; it's to make them better at it. "The person at the frontline has huge insights, not just about what the customer said. It's also about what the customer feels," he said. Human-centered AI learns from that human input, keeps people in control, and improves continuously. Asrani noted, trust is the real measure of any AI system: the technologies that earn a lasting place in the enterprise will be the ones that consistently deliver on what they promise.

For PLDT and Smart, these insights reinforce a broader approach to AI adoption: using technology to free employees from repetitive tasks so they can focus on higher-value work, from problem-solving and innovation to relationship-building and customer care.

Across the Group, AI is already being integrated into customer-facing operations, network management, and internal workflows. PLDT and Smart have deployed AI-enabled customer service capabilities and self-optimizing network technologies, while expanding the use of Microsoft 365 Copilot to help employees automate routine tasks, accelerate analysis, and improve productivity. The Group has also rolled out AI and innovation upskilling programs to equip employees with practical AI capabilities and prepare them for an increasingly AI-enabled workplace.

The Group is likewise advancing its broader AI agenda through AI.Smart, a one-stop AI workspace that gives Smart and TNT subscribers access to multiple artificial intelligence models and tools through a single browser-based platform. Powered by Avtica, AI.Smart brings together AWS Nova, ChatGPT, Claude, Google Gemini, and Thinking Machines in one interface, helping users access and maximize AI capabilities more easily.

Beyond deploying AI tools, the initiative reflects PLDT and Smart's broader approach to innovation: making emerging technologies more accessible and practical while helping customers and employees unlock new ways of working, learning, and creating value.

For PLDT and Smart, the question is no longer whether AI will transform customer experience, but how organizations can use it responsibly and effectively. As AI takes on more routine work, the opportunity shifts toward enabling people to focus on higher-value contributions, from solving complex problems to designing better customer journeys and building stronger relationships.

“In an age where technology is becoming increasingly intelligent, our responsibility is to become even more human. AI can help us scale efficiency, but it is our people who build relationships, earn trust, and create meaningful experiences for our customers,” added Jimenez.

As AI adoption accelerates across industries, PLDT and Smart see the technology not as an endpoint, but as a catalyst for a new era of customer experience, one where speed, intelligence, and automation are matched by deeper understanding, stronger relationships, and more meaningful outcomes for customers and communities alike.

Globe Earns Top Industry, Workplace Honors at ACES 2026

Globe Telecom has earned two distinctions at the Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards 2026 for its business performance and efforts to build a workplace where employees can grow and succeed. The company was named Industry Champions of the Year for the sixth time and Top Workplaces in Asia for the eighth time, recognizing its progress in strengthening connectivity, improving customer experience, and investing in its people.

Globe's Industry Champions of the Year distinction acknowledges its financial resilience, network expansion, innovation, and customer service. The ACES Council cited the company's ₱87.6 billion EBITDA in 2025, alongside the deployment of 1,549 new 5G sites and the addition of 115,082 fiber lines to support growing demand for connectivity.

Beyond network expansion, Globe has focused on making customer interactions faster and more convenient. Supported by automation, streamlined processes, and employee involvement, Globe reduced average customer waiting time from 32 to 17 minutes. Its Globe Care Crew initiative also brings employees closer to customers through frontline immersion and volunteer support during peak periods and post-disaster recovery.

The ACES Council also recognized Globe's efforts in cybersecurity, digital solutions, and extending connectivity to underserved communities. These initiatives reflect the company's broader focus on improving service delivery while expanding access to digital opportunities.

The company's Top Workplaces in Asia recognition reflects its continued investment in employee development, engagement, and inclusion. Globe continues to provide employees with opportunities to grow professionally, explore new roles, and develop skills across different areas of the business. The company also encourages employees to contribute ideas, improve work processes, and explore new technologies, including AI, to help strengthen operations and deliver better customer experiences.

“These honors are meaningful because they reflect the progress we have made, but what matters most is how our people experience working at Globe. We want every Ka-Globe to feel supported, have opportunities to grow, and build a fulfilling career. We will continue listening to our employees and making improvements that respond to their needs,” said Renato “Ato” Jiao, Globe Chief Human Resource Officer.

Learn more about Globe's people and workplace culture at www.createeverydaypossibilities.com.

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

Pet Pals Theme Brings a Playful Touch to Vivo V80 with OriginOS 7

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Smartphone personalization is becoming more expressive, and Vivo is bringing a playful twist to everyday mobile interactions with the upcoming Vivo V80. Powered by OriginOS 7, the device introduces Pet Pals, a wallpaper theme that features virtual pets designed to move and interact with users.

Unlike traditional static wallpapers, Pet Pals adds personality to the lock screen through animated virtual companions. Whether users are checking notifications or glancing at the time, these digital pets make everyday smartphone interactions more engaging. For pet lovers and users who enjoy customizing their devices, the feature offers a charming way to bring a little fun to their daily routines.

More Ways to Personalize the Vivo V80

Pet Pals is just one of several personalization features available through OriginOS 7. The operating system also introduces creative visual effects and customization options that allow users to make their smartphones reflect their individual styles.

Wiggle adds movement to wallpapers through motion-responsive effects, creating a more dynamic screen experience. Glint introduces shimmering visual details that give the display an eye-catching appearance, while StickIt allows users to decorate their system with playful stickers.

Together, these features offer different ways to customize the Vivo V80, from animated backgrounds to decorative elements. Rather than simply serving as a communication and productivity tool, the smartphone becomes a more personal device that reflects its owner's preferences and personality.

These additions highlight how software design can enhance the everyday smartphone experience. Small visual details and interactive elements can make routine actions feel more enjoyable without changing how users perform essential tasks.

With Pet Pals and the other OriginOS 7 themes, Vivo aims to make personalization an important part of the Vivo V80 experience. The combination of virtual companions, motion effects, shimmering visuals, and stickers gives users more opportunities to express themselves through their devices.

Watch the Vivo V80 Launch

Users interested in exploring these features can tune in to the Vivo V80 launch livestream on October 30 at 6 PM via Vivo Philippines' official Facebook page.

The livestream will provide an opportunity to discover more about the upcoming smartphone and its personalization features. For users who enjoy customizing their mobile experience, Pet Pals and the other OriginOS 7 themes offer a fresh look at how smartphone interfaces can combine functionality with creativity.

Filipino Innovations Take Center Stage at the 2026 Alfredo M. Yao Innovation Awards

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) has recognized outstanding Filipino ingenuity at the 2026 Alfredo M. Yao (AMY) Innovation Awards, celebrating two groundbreaking inventions focused on healthcare, sanitation, and sustainable development.

Held at the Manila Hotel alongside the 52nd Philippine Business Conference and Expo, the ceremony highlighted innovations with the potential to address pressing societal challenges and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

Named after Filipino businessman Alfredo M. Yao, whose company received the first ASEAN Business Award in Innovation, the awards recognize socially relevant, Filipino-developed inventions with the potential to create meaningful economic and community impact.

Agapita: Improving Communication for Stroke Survivors

The collegiate category award went to Jose Gian Tubera of Angeles University Foundation for Agapita: An Offline Sketch-to-Speech Communication System for Stroke Survivors with Broca’s Aphasia.

The system transforms patients’ rough sketches into clear, spoken clinical requests without requiring an internet connection. Designed for individuals who experience difficulties expressing themselves following a stroke, Agapita offers a practical communication solution that could help improve interactions between patients and healthcare professionals.

Its offline functionality is particularly valuable in settings where connectivity and access to speech-language pathologists are limited. By making communication more accessible and affordable, the innovation could support more responsive and inclusive healthcare services.

HOCLOMAC: Affordable and Sustainable Disinfection

In the professional category, Dr. Francis Aldrine Uy of USHER Technologies Inc. received recognition for HOCLOMAC, a portable, low-cost hypochlorous acid generator.

Using electrolysis, the device produces disinfectant on demand from readily available materials. Its design aims to reduce recurring sanitation expenses while minimizing plastic waste associated with conventional disinfectant packaging.

HOCLOMAC has potential applications in healthcare facilities, schools, and agriculture, offering a scalable approach to decentralized sanitation. By enabling users to produce disinfectant locally, the technology demonstrates how practical engineering can support safer environments and more sustainable operations.

Championing Filipino Innovation

AMY Awards Chairman Antonio Sayo praised both recipients, emphasizing how Filipino creativity can translate into real-world solutions. The awards were presented by government and industry leaders, including Vice President Sara Duterte, PCCI President Ferdinand A. Ferrer, and other representatives from the business and intellectual property sectors.

Through the AMY Innovation Awards, PCCI continues to promote research, entrepreneurship, and technology development among Filipinos.

The recognition of Agapita and HOCLOMAC underscores the importance of homegrown innovation in addressing healthcare challenges, improving sanitation, and advancing sustainable development. More importantly, these achievements demonstrate how Filipino inventors can create solutions that benefit communities while strengthening the country’s innovation ecosystem and economic competitiveness.

Globe Makes History with First-Ever Golden Arrow Hall of Fame Award

Globe has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of corporate governance, earning Five Golden Arrows from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) and the ICD’s first-ever Hall of Fame Award, having consistently received the Five Golden Arrow Award for the fifth consecutive year. This remarkable milestone highlights Globe’s outstanding and sustained leadership in upholding transparency, accountability, shareholder protection, and responsible business leadership.

“It is truly an honor to be recognized for our commitment to corporate governance and its principles and best practices. And to be recognized consistently for it for 5 consecutive years is such a profound privilege. It is a testament to our relentless determination to embed a governance culture in the organization alongside our business,” said Marisalve Ciocson-Co, Globe’s Chief Compliance Officer and Senior Vice President for Legal and Compliance.

The distinction recognizes Globe's performance as a publicly listed company under the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS), which evaluates shareholder rights, sustainability and resilience, transparency, and board accountability. Five Golden Arrows is reserved strictly for publicly listed companies with a score of 115 points or higher.

To achieve this top-tier rating consistently for five straight years underscores Globe’s ability to maintain high governance standards under an updated ACGS framework aligned with the G20/OECD Principles of Corporate Governance, which demands, among others, elevated transparency on sustainability, digital governance, and ESG integration.

Globe’s half-decade track record as a Five Golden Arrow Awardee is preceded by earlier recognitions dating back to 2012, when it became the only telecommunications company recognized at the Philippine Stock Exchange Bell Awards for Excellence in Corporate Governance. Over the years, it continued to receive distinctions for corporate governance, including Top 20 Publicly Listed Companies in the ASEAN Corporate Governance Awards, Top Performing Publicly Listed Company in the Philippines.

“At Globe, our purpose anchors everything we do: we treat people right to create a Globe of Good. That means protecting shareholders’ rights, being transparent and accountable in our decisions, and taking responsibility for the service our customers depend on. The same purpose guides how we govern and how we serve,” said Carl Cruz, Globe President and CEO.

The recognition also reflects the strong governance culture across the Ayala Group, with Ayala Corporation and Bank of the Philippine Islands likewise earning Five Golden Arrows this year. For Globe, maintaining the highest distinction for five consecutive years reinforces the importance of sound governance in supporting responsible innovation, sustainable growth, and long-term business success.

Need a Secure Crypto App? GCash Offers Seamless Transfers and Quick Registration via GCrypto

Finance super app GCash has made exploring and managing digital assets more secure and accessible through GCrypto, powered by Philippine Digital Asset Exchange (PDAX). Found in GCash, the platform allows Filipinos to set up a crypto account in as fast as 30 seconds, seamlessly receive and transfer crypto holdings from other wallets and exchanges, securely trade digital assets on the market, and fund their portfolio with zero cash-in fees directly through their mobile phones.

By streamlining the onboarding process, supporting crypto transfers, and providing direct fiat-to-crypto conversion, GCrypto simplifies traditional barriers associated with digital asset platforms. Users can participate in global market movements without relying on complex peer-to-peer (P2P) workarounds or encountering funding delays, all on a platform they use every day to manage their finances.

Across the country, digital platforms like GCrypto continue to democratize access to diverse asset classes, providing Filipinos with convenient, mobile-first ways to diversify their portfolios.

Simplified Onboarding and Convenient Transfers

Getting started on GCrypto is convenient. Users can complete verification, top up instantly from their GCash wallet, and trade 24/7 through their mobile phones without tedious paperwork submission.

In addition to in-app trading, GCrypto supports seamless send-and-receive functionality, helping users easily move digital assets to and from external crypto wallets and exchanges, without needing to sell or liquidate their holdings. For example, transferring Bitcoin from another wallet to GCrypto is straightforward:

1. Tap Bitcoin on your GCrypto dashboard and select Receive.

2. Copy your receiving address or display the QR code.

3. Paste the address into your external wallet, confirm the transaction details match, and hit send.

Once confirmed on-chain, the funds appear in your GCrypto wallet, ready to hold or trade.

To register on GCrypto, fully verified eligible GCash users 18 years old and above need to open the app, select GCrypto in the Invest tab, and complete the application process to receive instant approval. After registration, users can top up their trading wallet with no transfer fees and in real time from their GCash balance.

By integrating digital asset trading into a digital financial ecosystem already familiar to millions of Filipinos, GCash continues to fulfill its commitment to making financial tools safer, more accessible, and more inclusive for all. For more information, visit www.gcash.com.

New Sites Serving GIDAs in Visayas and Mindanao: PLDT, Smart Ramp up Bayanihan SIM Momentum via Network Expansion, Community Activation

PLDT Inc. and its wireless arm, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), are ramping up their support for the government-led Bayanihan SIM program through network expansion, community engagement, and sustained SIM activation initiatives, helping deliver the benefits of connectivity to more underserved and unserved communities across the country.

Recently, Smart has successfully fired up sites serving geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) in Argao, Cebu; Matalam, Cotabato Province; Talakag, Bukidnon; Silago, Southern Leyte; and San Vicente, Palawan, supporting education, agriculture, and local businesses, as well as helping local governments enhance the delivery of government services to their constituents through stronger network coverage.

Smart is also deploying interim connectivity solutions such as femtocell and satellite connectivity to identified unserved areas to enable meaningful digital participation among Bayanihan SIM beneficiaries while long-term new site rollouts are still underway.

"Connectivity is only meaningful when it is actively used. As we continue to roll out our network, we must also help more Filipinos make the most of the digital opportunities that connectivity makes possible," said PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Network Head Menardo G. Jimenez, Jr., who is also PLDT’s representative to the Presidential Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC).

Accompanying these network efforts, Smart has also intensified local activation campaigns to urge Bayanihan SIM beneficiaries to maximize their SIM cards. These include registration support activities, on-ground assistance, and handset and device raffle promos, among others, which are intended to encourage the activation of distributed SIMs.

Through the Bayanihan SIM program, Smart has already distributed more than 422,000 SIMs across 152 underserved and unserved sites nationwide. The company continues to collaborate with government partners to drive adoption and expand access in more locations.

These efforts are supported by an ongoing network modernization and expansion program that includes both interim and permanent connectivity solutions. While temporary technologies help accelerate service availability in remote areas, Smart is also fast-tracking the rollout of new sites to ensure reliable and long-term connectivity.

The Bayanihan SIM program is a key initiative supporting the government’s push for nationwide digital connectivity, underpinned by Smart's mobile network and PLDT's fiber infrastructure, the country's most extensive. The PLDT Group's continued investment in enhancing its integrated fixed and wireless network is part of the Group’s broader commitment to deliver leveled-up customer experience across the country.

Smart's continued support for the Bayanihan SIM program aligns with the broader goal of expanding access to digital services for underserved Filipinos, reinforcing the company's mission of enabling connectivity that empowers communities, supports education, and creates opportunities for inclusive growth.

Vivo V80 Pre-Orders Offer Fans a Chance to Meet ENHYPEN Members in Manila

MANILA, Philippines — Vivo Philippines is giving fans of K-pop group ENHYPEN an exclusive opportunity to meet JUNGWON, JAKE, and SUNGHOON in person through its upcoming Vivo V80 Lights Up Christmas event on November 12, 2026, at SM Mall of Asia Hall.

The first 100 customers who successfully pre-order the Vivo V80 through the official Vivo Philippines e-store will receive a VVIP ticket to the event. Pre-orders will run from October 26 to November 8, 2026, or until all 100 slots have been filled.

To qualify, customers must place their orders exclusively through shop.vivo.com and pay a non-refundable PHP 1,000 down payment. Each eligible pre-order is entitled to one VVIP ticket, subject to the promotion's terms and conditions.

Qualified customers must settle the remaining balance in full by November 9, 2026. Those who fail to complete payment by 11:59 p.m. on the deadline will forfeit their reserved tickets, while their initial down payments will remain non-refundable.

After full payment, Vivo Philippines will contact eligible customers to coordinate ticket arrangements and verify their identities. Attendees must present a valid ID during verification and bring the same identification document, along with their complete online order number, to the event. Tickets are strictly non-transferable and are tied to the original purchaser's registered ID and order number.

Vivo V80 Launch Set for October 30

Ahead of the November gathering, Vivo Philippines will officially launch the Vivo V80 on October 30, 2026, at 6 p.m. The launch will be livestreamed on the brand's official Facebook page, allowing fans to discover the new smartphone online.

Interested viewers can click “Going” on the event page to receive updates and reminders about the livestream.

ENHYPEN Members Join Vivo, Friends

JUNGWON, JAKE, and SUNGHOON are among the newest Vivo Friends, strengthening the smartphone brand's connection with Filipino fans through an exclusive in-person experience.

“ENHYPEN’s fans will have a limited opportunity to see ENHYPEN JUNGWON, JAKE, and SUNGHOON in person through this event,” said Liu Lu, Vivo Philippines Brand Marketing Director. The executive encouraged interested customers to pre-order through the official e-store and carefully review the payment deadlines and ticket requirements.

With limited VVIP tickets available, fans are encouraged to complete their pre-orders early. For the full promotional mechanics and the latest launch announcements, customers can visit Vivo Philippines' official social media channels and e-store.

The promotion combines the arrival of the Vivo V80 with a special fan experience, giving eligible customers an opportunity to celebrate the holiday season alongside three members of ENHYPEN.

Globe, NPC Renew Alliance to Help Filipinos Stay Safe and Responsible Online

Globe and the National Privacy Commission (NPC) have renewed their partnership to help more Filipinos, particularly young people, protect their privacy and navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. The collaboration takes on greater relevance as emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) increasingly shape how people learn, communicate, and interact.

The two organizations renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on October 19, continuing their work on Kabataang Digital, the NPC’s youth-focused advocacy that equips young Filipinos with practical knowledge on data privacy, digital citizenship, and safe online behavior. The partnership will also support Safe Space 2.0, a follow-up to Globe’s Safe Space children’s book that will tackle AI and digital wellness, reflecting the need to help young people use emerging technologies responsibly.

“Protecting people online goes beyond having strong privacy policies and safeguards. People also need the knowledge and confidence to understand their rights, recognize risks, and make informed decisions whenever they go online,” said Atty. Irish Salandanan-Almeida, Globe Chief Privacy Officer and Head of the Digital Policy and Governance Group. “By continuing our work with the National Privacy Commission, we can bring practical privacy and digital safety education closer to the people and communities who need it.”

As part of the collaboration, Globe will participate in selected activities under the NPC’s Kabataang Digital Program and other awareness, educational, and capacity-building initiatives. Globe will also support these efforts through its Safe Space books and related learning materials, including the donation of copies of the second edition of the Safe Space books to the NPC after publication.

The partnership builds on Globe’s broader efforts to help Filipinos stay safe and responsible online. These include its Go Safe with Globe advocacy, which brings together initiatives that help people recognize online risks, protect their personal information, and make safer choices in digital spaces. Additionally, through its Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP), Globe provides workshops and learning modules that equip young Filipinos with practical skills on digital citizenship, privacy, cybersecurity, and responsible technology use. Since its launch in 2016, DTP has reached more than 2 million students and educators nationwide, bringing digital citizenship and online safety education to schools and communities.

More recently, Globe partnered with GMA Network on GoSafe sa Cyberspace, bringing practical online safety lessons directly to students and helping young people better recognize and respond to digital risks. Together with DTP, the initiative demonstrates how Globe is taking online safety advocacy into schools and communities where young Filipinos learn and engage.

“Building a culture of privacy starts with giving people the knowledge to make safer and more responsible choices online. Our continued partnership with Globe allows us to bring privacy education closer to Filipinos, especially young people who are growing up in an increasingly digital world,” said NPC Privacy Commissioner Jan Barcena. “By working together across government and the private sector, we can help more Filipinos understand their rights, protect their personal information, and become more responsible digital citizens.”

The collaboration reflects Globe’s continuing work with government, schools, media, and other partners to build a safer digital environment. By combining public education with partnerships that extend its reach, Globe aims to give more Filipinos practical knowledge they can use to protect themselves online.

PLDT, Smart Partner With the Securities and Exchange Commission on Responsible E-Waste Management

PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) have partnered with the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to promote responsible electronic waste (e-waste) management across the Commission's offices nationwide.

Under the partnership, PLDT and Smart will deploy “Be Kind. Recycle.” e-waste collection bins and conduct related activities in SEC offices, enabling employees to responsibly dispose of used and broken electronics associated with telco and digital services.

These will be complemented by joint efforts to raise awareness on the importance of proper e-waste disposal and recycling among SEC employees and stakeholders.

Be Kind. Recycle. is PLDT and Smart’s flagship e-waste management program, which has already activated more than 200 e-waste collection points nationwide, in collaboration with various commercial establishments, schools, enterprises, cooperatives, local government units, professional organizations, and trade communities.

"We are honored to partner with the SEC, as it continues to be at the forefront of championing sustainability and promoting responsible business practices among Philippine companies,” said PLDT and Smart Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment towards supporting our country in managing the impacts of e-waste on our people and the environment, and in transitioning towards a circular economy,” added Pangilinan.

As part of the SEC Sustainability Week Program, the partnership aligns with the Commission’s continuing efforts to promote greater transparency on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) matters and advance the adoption of globally aligned sustainability reporting standards.

“The SEC strongly supports initiatives that incorporate sustainability into the core of corporate practices. We encourage all market participants to do their part in driving the shift to a more sustainable future,” SEC Chairperson Francis Lim said.

Collected e-waste from SEC employees and facilities will be turned over to PLDT and Smart’s authorized partner e-waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities, ensuring proper handling and compliance with applicable environmental and human rights laws and regulations.

PLDT and Smart’s partnership with the SEC builds on the group’s broader focus on circularity and responsible waste management, covering operations, products and services, and value chain activities.

“While we do not directly manufacture devices and electronics, we acknowledge that the use of our services and the continuous advancement of our network technology contribute to the generation of e-waste. We therefore embrace our responsibility to facilitate recovery and ensure proper disposal of consumer e-waste, particularly those associated with our products and services,” explained PLDT and Smart Chief Sustainability Officer Melissa Vergel de Dios.

Since 2023, PLDT and Smart have already collected and recovered 42.5 metric tons of e-waste, avoiding an estimated 17.3 metric tons of carbon emissions, equivalent to the carbon absorbed by 286 tree seedlings grown over 10 years.

Through the program, PLDT and Smart continue to expand the availability and accessibility of proper e-waste disposal channels nationwide by connecting grassroots communities and the general public to formal e-waste collection and recycling facilities.

Parallel to e-waste collection, Smart also works with various device manufacturers that incorporate recycled components into their modes of production and enable the offering of trade-in and trade-up programs for customers.

These efforts reinforce the shared commitment of PLDT, SMART, and SEC to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production and Goal 17 on Partnerships for the Goals.

Bloomberry’s FUNaloMAX Launches PHP 30M Year-End Campaign to Expand Digital Gaming Presence

Manila, Philippines — As part of its strategic push to broaden its digital entertainment presence, Bloomberry Resorts Corp.’s online gaming platform FUNaloMAX has launched a PHP 30M year-end campaign designed to strengthen user engagement and capture rapid growth in the Philippines’ digital gaming sector, pouring in grand prizes such as a brand-new Tesla Model 3 and 250 Apple iPhone 18 Pro units.

The rollout comes amid the increasing demand for online gaming among Filipinos. Recent industry data shows that player engagement in the Philippines has been transitioning towards digital channels, with national gross gaming revenue (GGR) projected to increase by about 17% through 2030, primarily driven by growth in the e-gaming sector.

By anchoring its Q4 expansion through a rewards program built around transparency and player trust, Bloomberry is positioning FUNaloMAX as a reliable platform in the country’s competitive online gaming space.

“Our Q4 campaign is designed to reward our players and solidify FUNaloMAX’s positioning as a premier, trust-driven digital gaming destination in the Philippines,” said Kelvin Kuan, Vice President for Online Gaming at Bloomberry Resorts Corp. “By introducing high-impact engagement, FUNaloMAX aims to set a new benchmark for transparent, user-centric digital entertainment in the industry.”

Running from October 17 to December 27, the campaign features a multi-tiered reward structure designed to sustain long-term player engagement. It combines recurring weekly prize draws with monthly and year-end incentives.

The campaign will kick off by giving away 250 Apple iPhone 18 Pro units awarded across 10 weekly draws. Players earn one entry for every PHP 5,000.00 in accumulated turnover on eligible slot and bingo games, with no raffle entry cap.

Complementing the weekly giveaways are monthly draws offering PHP 150,000 in bonus credits to two winners on November 29, followed by a PHP 1 million bonus credit prize on December 27.

Headlining the entire campaign as the grand raffle prize is a brand-new Tesla Model 3 in Red, to be awarded during the grand draw on December 27.

Driving this nationwide expansion is a foundational commitment to responsible gaming, player protection, and regulatory compliance. As a PAGCOR-licensed platform, FUNaloMAX operates under strict regulatory safeguards including Know-Your-Customer (KYC) identity verification, data security protocols, and voluntary self-exclusion tools to foster a safe gaming environment.

Under these guidelines, only eligible, KYC-verified FUNaloMAX users may participate and claim campaign prizes. Suspended, frozen, or ineligible account holders are strictly excluded from participating.

For more information and updates, visit funalomax.com or its official FUNaloMAX Facebook page.

Gambling is for 21 years old and above only. Gambling can be addictive. Know when to stop. For more information and assistance, call the National Problem Gambling Hotline at (02) 8248-9568 or email ResponsibleGaming@pagcor.ph.

Globe Supports Faster Telecom Permitting to Bring Connectivity to More Communities

Faster infrastructure approvals can help bring better connectivity to more Filipinos. Globe welcomed the progress made by local government units (LGUs) nationwide in streamlining telecommunications permits, emphasizing the importance of continued cooperation between government and the industry to accelerate network expansion, particularly in underserved and remote communities.

Permitting is a critical step between network planning and actual deployment. Reducing administrative delays allows telecommunications providers to move planned cell sites and network upgrades into construction sooner, helping improve services in communities that need them most.

That progress is gaining ground across the country. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reported that 12,241 permits and clearances for telecommunications infrastructure projects had been approved across 707 cities and municipalities as of September 2026, supported by reforms aimed at simplifying local permitting processes. Executive Order No. 32, issued in 2023, streamlined requirements for telecommunications and internet infrastructure and called on LGUs to process applications within prescribed timelines and prevent backlogs.

“Faster permitting is important in bringing better connectivity to more Filipinos. We appreciate the efforts of LGUs to simplify these processes and help telecommunications providers move forward with their projects. Continued cooperation between government and the industry will help us expand our network and reach more communities, especially those that remain underserved,” said Joel Agustin, SVP and Head of Network Planning and Engineering at Globe.

The development comes as Globe continues to invest in improving its network to meet growing demand for reliable mobile and home internet services. In the first half of 2026, the company recorded ₱26.3 billion in capital expenditures, with 91% allocated to data-related initiatives. During the same period, Globe deployed 878 new 5G sites and 80,052 fiber-to-the-home lines, while its outdoor 5G population coverage exceeded 98% in Metro Manila and key cities in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Sustained network investment, supported by faster and more predictable permitting, can help move infrastructure from planning to deployment sooner. Globe will continue working with national agencies and LGUs to accelerate network rollout and extend reliable connectivity to more communities across the country.

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