Globe AT HOME Makes Holiday Connections More Rewarding with Exclusive GFiber Offers

The holidays bring Filipino families together, with more time spent streaming, gaming, catching up with loved ones, and sharing moments at home. This season, Globe AT HOME is giving existing Globe Mobile subscribers more reasons to bring Globe connectivity into their households, with exclusive GFiber offers that provide additional savings and mobile benefits.

Through these offers, Globe Postpaid, Prepaid, and TM subscribers who get a new GFiber Plan for the home can unlock benefits matched to their existing mobile subscriptions. By bringing mobile and home internet services together, Globe is making it more convenient and rewarding for customers to stay connected, whether at home or on the go.

3 Ways to Get More out of your Globe home internet with Globe mobile:

Globe Postpaid customers: Save up to ₱500 monthly

Get a new GFiber Plan for your home and enjoy up to ₱500 off your monthly Globe Postpaid fee for 24 months, with savings depending on the GFiber Plan you choose.

Renew your Globe Postpaid plan and get even more

Renew your Globe Mobile Postpaid plan together with a new GFiber Plan and enjoy 2X your mobile data allocation, plus up to ₱500 off your GFiber monthly fee for 24 months. Select plans also include VIP Hotline access and Home Squad visits for added support.

Globe Prepaid and TM: Get Just For You mobile perks

Switch to a new GFiber Plan and enjoy free mobile promo benefits for 24 months, with Just For You offers matched to the GFiber Plan you choose, giving you more value from the Globe services you already use every day.

“The holidays are a time when families spend more moments together at home, and dependable connectivity helps make those experiences possible,” said Abigail Cardino, Vice President and Head of Globe's Broadband Brand Management. “By bringing our mobile and home internet offers together, we're giving existing Globe customers more value from the services they already use, whether they're connecting at home or on the go.”

Beyond the added savings and mobile benefits, customers can enjoy the advantages of Globe AT HOME’s fiber experience, with GFiber plans offering inclusions such as a Blast TV subscription and WiFi 6 modems that can concurrently connect up to 50 devices. Customers in serviceable areas can also have their GFiber connection installed within 24 hours, making the switch easier for households that do not want to spend the holidays waiting to get back online.

For households that rely heavily on streaming, gaming, content creation, online learning, and work-from-home setups, having a more consistent home connection can make all the difference. Globe AT HOME continues to enhance its fiber services to support these everyday needs, building on Globe's recognition as the Most Consistent Home Internet Provider.

By bringing mobile and home internet benefits together, Globe is making it more rewarding for existing customers to stay connected across the services they use every day. This holiday season, Globe AT HOME is inviting more families to make their home the place where everyone can connect, celebrate, and enjoy more together.

Check your eligibility through the Globe portal at https://glbe.com.ph/MPO-PR, or visit your nearest Globe Store to learn more.

PSA partners with Smart for a National ID-authenticated SIM Registration

Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), the wireless arm of PLDT Inc., has become the first mobile operator in the Philippines to integrate the Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) National ID Authentication Services (NIDAS) into its SIM Registration process, streamlining identity verification for Smart Prepaid and TNT subscribers.

Through the PSA’s National ID eVerify platform, Smart can authenticate subscriber information against the National ID registry, helping improve the integrity of subscriber records.

The integration supports Republic Act No. 11934, or the SIM Registration Act, which promotes accountability in mobile communications and seeks to deter scams, fraud, and other unlawful activities involving SIM misuse.

“By integrating the National ID Authentication Services into our SIM Registration process, we aim to make registration simpler for our customers while strengthening safeguards against identity fraud. This partnership reflects our commitment to leveraging digital innovation for safer and more seamless mobile experiences for Filipinos,” said Menardo G. Jimenez, Jr., Chief Operating Officer of PLDT Inc.

Simplifying SIM Registration

The PSA’s NIDAS enables authorized institutions to verify identities through the National ID system. With the integration now live, Smart Prepaid and TNT subscribers only need to input their names and take a live selfie on Smart’s SIM Registration portal at https://simreg.smart.com.ph to verify their identity, significantly reducing the process from three minutes to within one minute.

“Reliable identity verification is key to making our SIM Registration more efficient. By enabling authentication against the National ID registry, we are significantly enhancing the registration journey while upholding the security and privacy of subscribers’ information,” said Lloyd R. Manaloto, officer-in-charge of Smart.

Advancing secure digital services

Established under Republic Act No. 11055, or the Philippine Identification System Act, the national identification infrastructure supports identity verification across various services.

The PSA continues to expand NIDAS adoption among private-sector institutions, demonstrating how trusted digital identity verification can help simplify customer onboarding and help prevent identity misuse.

“The National ID is more than a document we carry, or a number assigned to us. Its real value lies in the trust it builds and the opportunities it helps create. Let us continue building a future where every Filipino can use their National ID with confidence and benefit from a more secure and accessible digital environment,” said PSA Assistant Secretary Rosalinda P. Bautista, Deputy National Statistician of the PhilSys Registry Office, on behalf of Undersecretary Claire Dennis S. Mapa, PhD, National Statistician and Civil Registrar General.

Smart’s partnership with PSA underscores its commitment to tapping the latest innovations and strategic partnerships to deliver world-class mobile experiences for Filipinos.

Globe Launches New Wellness Benefits to Help Customers Recharge and Reconnect

Between busy schedules, constant notifications, and the demands of everyday life, finding time to pause can feel like a luxury. Recognizing the growing need for balance in an always-on world, Globe is giving customers more opportunities to prioritize their well-being, bringing together rewards, lifestyle benefits, and curated experiences that encourage customers to make time for themselves, recharge, and enjoy moments of self-care.

The initiative expands the value customers receive from their Globe mobile subscriptions by making wellness a more meaningful part of their everyday experience. It focuses on three ways of caring for customers: turning rewards into opportunities for personal time, offering thoughtful wellness benefits, and creating experiences that encourage customers to step away from their routines and reconnect with themselves.

Customers across Globe’s mobile plans can access a growing range of wellness and lifestyle benefits from partners including Longevity Labs, Parlon, Surge Fitness + Lifestyle, Trip.com, Lush, and DAON & Co. Offers include discounts on wellness services, fitness memberships, beauty experiences, travel, and online purchases.

For Globe Prepaid customers, wellness vouchers are available through Globe Rewards+, giving more opportunities to enjoy self-care and personal time. Globe Postpaid customers can explore wellness benefits through the Rewards catalog in the GlobeOne app, including select offers and discounts that do not require points for redemption.

Eligible Postpaid and Platinum customers can also receive curated wellness experiences tied to their Globe milestones. Globe Platinum customers can connect with THEA for personalized lifestyle assistance and enjoy a range of hotel and wellness privileges across select Asian destinations, making travel more rewarding and self-care more accessible:

• Japan: Hotel benefits, including a US$100 credit per room per stay at Shangri-La Tokyo.
• Korea: Wellness and skin-treatment benefits, including discounts on treatments, tax refunds for eligible foreign customers, and a complimentary service at Yonsei Line Clinic.
• Thailand: Exclusive access to wellness experiences through discounted day passes at Soma Health Clinic.
• Singapore: Special access to wellness experiences at ReKoop Flex, including a package featuring five wellness technologies.
• Vietnam: Discounts on spa and wellness services at Yen Spa.

“We know that our customers are constantly moving, creating, and taking care of the people around them. Wellness is about giving them the space to take care of themselves, too,” said Eric Tanbauco, Head of Consumer Mobile at Globe. “Through this new Wellness Pillar, we want to make self-care feel more accessible and more relevant to everyday life, giving customers meaningful ways to pause, recharge, and come back stronger for the things that matter most.”

At its heart, Globe’s wellness offering is about recognizing that great experiences begin with having the space and energy to enjoy them. By expanding the value of its mobile services beyond connectivity, Globe is giving customers more meaningful ways to enjoy rewards and benefits that support their everyday well-being.

To learn more about Globe’s wellness offerings, visit https://glbe.com.ph/GlobeTelecomPR

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.

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.

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.

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.

Globe’s Record Corporate Data Revenues Strengthen Growth Outlook as Digital Demand Expands

BGC, TAGUIG City - Growing demand for enterprise connectivity and digital infrastructure is emerging as an important contributor to Globe Telecom’s expanding ecosystem, with all-time high corporate data revenues and continued network investment supporting the company’s broader growth strategy.

Globe reported first-half 2026 corporate data revenues of ₱11.0 billion, up 15% year-on-year, reflecting the increasing role of connectivity and digital solutions in supporting business operations.

The performance formed part of the company’s broader service revenue growth, which reached a record ₱85.4 billion in the first half, 6% higher than a year earlier. EBITDA also increased 6% to ₱44.5 billion, equivalent to a margin of 52.6%.

This expansion of enterprise connectivity takes place alongside wider demand for mobile data, fiber broadband and digital services. Businesses increasingly depend on reliable internet access and data networks to support customer transactions, distributed operations and digital workflows.

Data-driven services continued to account for the bulk of Globe’s consolidated service revenues in the first half of 2026. Mobile data revenues grew 10% year-on-year to ₱53.9 billion, while home broadband revenues increased 6% to ₱12.4 billion, reflecting sustained demand for connectivity across consumer and business segments.

To support continued demand, Globe has invested ₱26.3 billion in capital expenditure during the first half, up 39% year-on-year. Approximately 91% of the spending went toward data and digital infrastructure, including initiatives intended to expand network capacity and improve service quality.

The company remains on track to keep full-year capital expenditure below US$1 billion. Maintaining this discipline will be important as Globe balances the requirements of network modernization with its objectives for profitability and financial flexibility.

As it stands, Globe's operating performance remained healthy, supported by record service revenues and higher EBITDA. Core Net Income, which excludes the impact of foreign exchange and mark-to-market adjustments, improved 7% quarter-on-quarter to ₱5.3 billion, with first-half Core Net Income reaching P10.2 billion.

The opportunity for Globe lies in sustaining enterprise demand and monetizing its infrastructure investments while maintaining service quality and controlling costs. Corporate data growth provides a measurable indication of demand for its digital capabilities, although future performance will depend on continued customer adoption and the returns generated by these investments.

As investors assess Globe’s prospects, the continued growth of the company’s core services offers a useful indicator of the company’s business direction. Corporate data, in particular, is a promising growth engine expected to support stronger earnings and cash generation over time.

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

Globe Boosts 5G Connectivity, Backs Bulacan’s Continued Growth

BULACAN, Philippines — Globe is enhancing its network in key areas across Bulacan, bringing wider 5G coverage and better connectivity to a province where economic activity continues to grow. The improvements aim to give residents and businesses a more reliable mobile experience as their digital needs evolve.

Globe has improved its network in Pulilan, Bulakan, Calumpit, Bocaue, Bustos, Guiguinto, Malolos City, Marilao, Meycauayan, Norzagaray, Obando, San Jose del Monte, San Miguel, Santa Maria, Balagtas, Baliwag, Pandi, Plaridel, San Ildefonso, San Rafael, Angat, Hagonoy, and Paombong.

For residents, better connectivity can support video calls, streaming, online learning, and other everyday digital activities. Businesses can use improved mobile connectivity to reach customers, manage online transactions, accept digital payments, and support other increasingly digital aspects of their operations.

The network expansion comes as Bulacan continues to be a major economic center in Central Luzon. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, Bulacan remained the region’s largest economy in 2024, accounting for 27.4% of Central Luzon’s economy, with its economy growing 7.0% to ₱675.52 billion. Industry accounted for 50.1% of the provincial economy, led by sectors including manufacturing and construction, while wholesale and retail trade was also among its largest industries.

Better connectivity also benefits Bulacan’s tourism sector, which draws visitors to its heritage and religious sites, ecological destinations, and festivals. Reliable mobile access helps travelers navigate and stay connected while giving tourism establishments and local merchants more ways to reach and serve customers.

“Bulacan continues to move forward, and our network investments are designed to keep pace with the needs of its communities. By bringing better connectivity and wider 5G access to more areas, we want to give Bulakenyos a reliable digital experience that helps them make the most of opportunities in work, education, business, and everyday life,” said Mel Baquiano, General Manager for Central and North Luzon at Globe.

Globe Prepaid customers can make the most of the improved network experience with Go+99. For Php 99, the seven-day offer comes with 8 GB of data for all sites, 4 GB of free 5G data, and 8 GB for a choice of apps, along with unlimited texts to all networks and a discount voucher. Customers who choose GoSHARE or GoLEARN can also access Canva AI for schoolwork, creative projects, and content creation, with Globe’s improved network helping them use AI tools and collaborate online more seamlessly.

TM customers can likewise enjoy 5G connectivity through offers such as EasySURF 50 5G and ALLSURF, giving them more options to stay connected for their everyday digital needs. These offers give more prepaid customers ways to experience Globe’s 5G network where available.

Globe continues to invest in its network across Bulacan as demand for digital services grows. These improvements form part of the company’s broader efforts to deliver reliable connectivity and better digital experiences to communities across the country.

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

PLDT, Smart Call for Collective Action to Protect Children Online

PLDT and Smart are calling for urgent, collective action across government, industry, schools, families, and communities to address growing threats to children in the digital world, stressing that no single sector can protect young Filipinos online on its own.

For PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technology Officer Menardo “Butch” G. Jimenez, the issue has become one of the company's top priorities as mounting risks to children have increasingly extended into both online and offline spaces.

“Our children are under attack. And the moment your child is under attack, that becomes priority one,” Jimenez said, noting that addressing these threats cannot be left to telco companies or government alone, but instead would require various sectors to work together, bring to the table their respective expertise, and transform these into practical solutions.

“This problem is not solved by telcos playing God or even government playing God. This problem is solved by every single sector in this room talking with each other to understand the problem, and together come up with solutions,” he said.

PLDT and Smart put this call for collaboration into action through the “Safe Online Space Forum: Building Safer Online Spaces for Filipino Children and Families,” which convened voices from government, telco, technology, education, families, media, and civil society to examine safeguards and policies, harmful online content and threats, and ways to empower children to navigate the digital world safely.

Jimenez emphasized that PLDT’s role is not to prescribe the answers, but to bring together stakeholders with the knowledge and experience needed to develop them.

“We’re here not to lead; rather, we are here to listen. We are not the experts,” he said, noting that while telcos like PLDT have technological expertise, protecting children also requires experts from fields like education, psychology, policy, parenting, and other disciplines to weigh in.

Jimenez also challenged stakeholders to go beyond broad statements and instead identify concrete actions that can make an immediate difference for children. “We have to come up with actual initiatives and solutions that we can do and use tomorrow already, because the crisis is already escalating,” he said.

Multi-sectoral panels

Joining the first panel, which examined existing regulations and policies and the roles different institutions play in protecting children, were representatives from the Department of Education (DepEd), Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), Philippine National Police (PNP), Office of Senator Risa Hontiveros, and Converge ICT Solutions Inc.

“We will not win in the reactive part of cybercrime. We will always win on the proactive side. In fact, with our engagement with the platforms, we now have a channel where we can communicate and coordinate before requesting action on harmful content,” said Dir. Rojun V. Hosillos of the Cybercrime Investigation Office at CICC.

A second panel brought together perspectives from social media platforms like TikTok, esports athletes, media, and families on addressing harmful content and threats in the digital world.

"I think it's important that we don't automatically blame gaming or e-sports as harmful," said National Esports Athlete and National Chairperson of the Esports Party List Alexandre “AK” Laverez, who at age 12 had the opportunity to represent the country on the global stage. "The e-sports industry offers careers, friendships, and opportunities."

The final panel, which focused on how families, schools, and communities can help raise empowered and digitally resilient children, included child development experts, non-government organizations, educators, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development's Social Technology Bureau.

“Invest in parent education, care for teachers, and boost content creators. Invest in the people influencing children, in addition to investing in technology,” said Dr. Tina Zamora, family life and child development specialist and developmental psychologist.

Bryanna Mariñas, founder and executive director of Violence Ends With Us, urged stakeholders to include the youth in the conversation: “Work with children, young people, and survivors to actually understand how they're experiencing the world and how they're using the technology. Work with survivors and victims of violence to understand what they've experienced, what was not done, and what you can do better to prevent that harm happening to other people.”

The discussions were moderated by PLDT and Smart Public Engagement Group Head Roby Alampay, Deputy Head Gian Lao, and PLDT Chief Legal Counsel Atty. Joan de Venecia-Fabul.

Parents are key

Jimenez himself emphasized the responsibility of parents in helping children develop the values and judgment they need to navigate increasingly complex online environments. “We can talk about how technology, the government, or the laws will solve this, but the reality is a big part of the solution lies with the parents as well,” he said, reminding stakeholders that their respective capabilities also bring a responsibility to act: “To whom much is given, much is required. We are not mere bystanders in this. We are actually people who can help.”

The Safe Online Space Forum forms part of the PLDT Group’s broader efforts to advance multi-stakeholder collaboration in creating safer digital environments for children. The initiative also contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 16 on Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals.

Empowering Indigenous Communities: PLDT, Smart Advance Disaster Resilience for Tagbanua ICC in El Nido

As PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) strengthen the resilience of their network through the Palawan Resiliency Submarine Cable Project, they are also helping equip local communities with the knowledge and skills that help boost preparedness and resilience at the community level.

More than 30 members of the Tagbanua Tandulanen Indigenous Cultural Community (ICC) from 11 barangays in El Nido recently participated in a disaster preparedness training session organized by PLDT, reinforcing a shared commitment to building resilient communities alongside resilient connectivity.

For members of the Tagbanua Tandulanen ICC, knowledge on how to prepare for disasters is more than just about keeping their own community resilient when they are in their respective hometowns.

“While we can say that our town has not had much experience with earthquakes, knowing what to do during such an event is important, especially because we’re not only staying in Palawan but also traveling beyond it,” said Roderick D. Gacasa, who attended the session held in Brgy Sibaltan, El Nido. The session is part of the Group’s commitment to the community in relation to the recently signed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on the Palawan Resiliency Submarine Cable Project.

A teacher at Sibaltan Elementary School, Gacasa, said that disaster preparedness is also something they teach to their students. “We regularly conduct similar trainings and drills with our students. We always tell them that we are not only confined to Palawan; we also travel outside of it. And when we’re out there, we must know what to do.”

The session, led by Jonathan Palma of the Emergency Management Center, taught participants basic survival tips and disaster response in the event of earthquakes, typhoons, and storm surges; how to assemble their own emergency kits; and how to use their phones in times of emergency, among other topics.

PLDT and Smart also turned over office equipment to the ICC, represented by Tribal Affairs Assistant I Kamaulangan Nelson Biennes, for use in future tribal hall activities.

“We are thankful to PLDT for this learning session, and for not forgetting our community,” said Biennes, who opened the training. “Disaster preparedness is something that we should all be knowledgeable about, so this session is really important and timely.”

Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement at PLDT and Smart, underscored the importance of advocating for a nationwide culture of disaster resilience, including among indigenous communities. “Resilient communities and resilient connectivity go hand in hand. As we strengthen our network through the Palawan Resiliency Submarine Cable Project, we also want to help ensure that the communities we serve, such as the Tagbanua Tandulanen ICC, are equipped with the knowledge and skills to prepare for emergencies. By combining reliable connectivity with disaster preparedness, we can help communities stay informed, connected, and resilient when it matters most.”

Shared commitment to protect IP rights

Signed earlier this year, PLDT’s MOA with the Tagbanua ICC of Palawan and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) for the Palawan Resiliency Submarine Cable Project reinforces their shared commitment to recognize and protect Indigenous Peoples’ rights through continued adherence to cultural, social, and environmental safeguards while implementing and completing the network project.

This initiative, conducted in time for National Indigenous Peoples’ Month, is aligned with the Group’s #KonektedforInclusion programs, which harness technology to help underrepresented sectors, including indigenous communities, gain greater access to connectivity, learning, and livelihood opportunities. It also advances its #KonektedforResilience advocacy, which promotes disaster resilience before, during, and after emergencies.

It also reinforces the PLDT Group’s commitment to helping the country achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 10 on reducing inequality and SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities.

Eastern Communications Earns Great Place To Work Recognition, Putting People at the Heart of Innovation

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Connectivity for Eastern Communications has always been more than technology. It is about the people who give purpose to every connection. That belief and a people-centered approach are what made Eastern earn its recognition as a Great Place To Work for the third year in a row, as the company's efforts continue to build a workplace where connection and collaboration are integral pillars that cultivate an environment where Eastern employees are empowered and equipped to take on new opportunities and challenges.

For Eastern, the recognition goes beyond an HR milestone. It reflects a workplace philosophy rooted in its High Tech, High Touch approach, bringing together innovation and technology with genuine human connection.

“Our people are at the heart of everything we do. As a company that connects businesses and communities through technology, we also believe in creating an environment where our own people feel connected, valued, and empowered to grow,” said Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications.

Bringing High Tech, High Touch to the Workplace

As Eastern continues to evolve as a telecommunications and ICT solutions provider, its people remain central to that transformation. Eastern’s expanding portfolio across connectivity, network, cybersecurity, cloud and data center, and business applications requires employees who are ready to learn, adapt, and innovate alongside a rapidly changing digital landscape.

Simultaneously, Eastern recognizes that technology is only as meaningful as the people behind it. Therefore, its trademark philosophy of High Tech, High Touch extends beyond customer solutions and into employee experience.

Through opportunities for collaboration, learning, recognition, and engagement, Eastern continues to foster a culture where people can contribute meaningfully while developing their capabilities.

This commitment has also earned recognition this year in employer branding and excellence in employee engagement, complementing the company’s Great Place to Work recognition and highlighting its efforts to build a workplace that resonates with both current and future Eastern employees.

Dare to Soar Starts Within

The recognition forms part of Eastern’s “Dare to Soar” campaign. A campaign that encourages the organization to look beyond what it has already achieved and pursue what is possible next. For Eastern, this begins with its people.

From embracing new technologies and developing new capabilities to collaborating across teams and finding new ways to serve customers and communities, Eastern employees are encouraged to grow alongside the organization.

“Dare to Soar starts within. We want our people to see Eastern not only as a place where they work, but as a place where they can learn, contribute, and pursue what they are capable of,” said Mr. Jaeson Evangelista, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications.

Building a great workplace is ultimately connected to its purpose as a company. Because behind every network, solution, and connection, Eastern values its people who make progress possible.

Subsea Cables Are Critical Infra Requiring Whole-of-Nation Protection -- PLDT

The PLDT Group called for deeper collaboration between government and industry to strengthen the resilience of the country's subsea cable network, emphasizing the role of undersea cable infrastructure as a critical enabler of connectivity, economic growth, public services, and national development.

Representing the PLDT Group at the Archipelagic Governance for Subsea Cables Forum, PLDT Global President and CEO Albert V. Villa-Real underscored the growing importance of resilient subsea cable systems amid rising global concerns over disruptions affecting critical digital infrastructure worldwide. The forum brought together leaders from government, security agencies, regulators, academe, and telecommunications operators to discuss governance, protection, and resilience measures for the Philippine subsea cable ecosystem.

Organized by The Asia Foundation in partnership with the National Security Council Secretariat, National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea (UP IMLOS), and the National Telecommunications Security Council (NTSC), the forum highlighted the increasing recognition of subsea cable systems as strategic infrastructure supporting national security and economic resilience.

Speaking from the industry's perspective, Villa-Real said subsea cable networks have become far more than telecommunications assets. "They are national infrastructure. They carry the connections that enable our businesses to operate, our banks to transact, our government to deliver services, and our families to communicate. Increasingly, they also support cloud, data centers, artificial intelligence, and digital services that will shape the next generation of our economy."

His remarks come as governments and operators around the world respond to a growing number of subsea cable incidents that have underscored the vulnerability of digital infrastructure and the importance of building greater network redundancy, route diversity, and coordinated response mechanisms. For the Philippines, an archipelagic nation whose connectivity depends heavily on undersea infrastructure, Villa-Real said resilience must become a national priority.

Villa-Real said resilience must go beyond capacity, calling for greater route diversity, faster restoration, and stronger coordination among stakeholders during disruptions. He also urged closer government-industry collaboration to streamline cable deployment and repairs, strengthen information sharing, and institutionalize incident response protocols. Highlighting the country's strategic location, Villa-Real said the Philippines has the potential to become a major digital gateway in the region. "The Philippines should not think of itself simply as the end point of international cables. Our ambition should be to become a major digital crossroads of the Asia-Pacific."

According to Villa-Real, achieving this ambition will require the convergence of resilient international and domestic connectivity infrastructure, data centers, cloud ecosystems, reliable power systems, and an enabling policy environment that encourages continued investment. He stressed that subsea cable systems should be viewed as part of the country's critical digital infrastructure and supported through sustained public-private collaboration.

"No single company—and no single government agency—can secure the connectivity of an archipelago. It requires a true partnership. If government and industry can work from that shared perspective, then our ambition can go beyond protecting the cables we already have. We can build a Philippine subsea ecosystem that is diverse by design, resilient by architecture, protected through cooperation, and attractive to the next generation of global digital investment."

Faster Cable Restoration Critical to National Resilience

Meanwhile, PLDT First Vice President for Network Design and Engineering Arvin L. Siena, who joined the panel discussion on “The Role of a Resilient Subsea Cable System for Philippine Development," emphasized the importance of reliable connectivity in sustaining government operations, essential public services, business activities, and the country’s digital transformation.

“Connectivity enables governments to serve citizens, businesses to grow, and communities to participate in the digital economy. Ensuring the reliability and resilience of subsea cable infrastructure is therefore not just a network issue, but a key enabler of national development and economic progress,” Siena said.

While telco operators continue to invest in additional cable systems, route diversity, and network redundancy, Siena pointed out that the ability to restore damaged infrastructure quickly is equally important. Submarine cables remain vulnerable to natural disasters, earthquakes, fishing activities, ship anchors, and other maritime incidents. Repairs require specialized cable vessels, many of which must secure multiple permits and clearances before entering Philippine waters.

Siena acknowledged the importance of national security, maritime protection, and regulatory compliance but cautioned that extended approval processes can delay the restoration of essential connectivity. “A cable fault is a technical problem. But an extended outage while repair approvals are being secured becomes a national economic concern,” he said.

To address this, Siena called for a clear, predictable, and streamlined approval process for emergency cable repairs, supported by stronger coordination among government agencies and telecommunications operators.

He also proposed declaring submarine and terrestrial cable routes as critical digital corridors to strengthen public awareness, encourage infrastructure protection, and minimize preventable damage caused by human activities.

“National security and the rapid restoration of connectivity are not competing objectives. We need both security and speed,” Siena emphasized.

As the Philippines advances its digital transformation agenda, the PLDT Group reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and industry stakeholders to protect critical connectivity infrastructure, strengthen national resilience, and help position the country as a leading destination for digital investment in the Asia-Pacific region.

Globe Reports 1,245 Cases of Cable Theft; Urges Government Action to Protect Critical Infrastructure

Globe is calling for stronger government action against the theft and pilferage of telecommunications equipment, warning that the growing problem is disrupting connectivity and putting critical network infrastructure at risk. The company and its tower company partners have recorded 1,245 pilferage cases as of September 2026, leading to service outages nationwide, with more incidents continuing to be reported.

Each affected site can mean disrupted mobile and data services for customers who rely on connectivity for work, education, business, emergency communications, and access to essential digital services. Beyond the immediate service disruption, repeated theft also undermines investments intended to expand coverage, improve network quality, and strengthen resilience.

“This is no longer simply a matter of stolen equipment. When critical telecommunications infrastructure is damaged or taken, communities can lose connectivity and the investments being made to improve network services are undermined,” said Atty. Froilan Castelo, General Counsel of Globe. “We need stronger, coordinated action across government, law enforcement, local communities, and the telecommunications industry to address this problem.”

Globe is urging the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to help bring together telecommunications operators, tower companies, and relevant government agencies toward a more coordinated response. The company is also seeking stronger participation from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Philippine National Police (PNP), local government units, and barangays nationwide to strengthen prevention and enforcement on the ground.

Barangay and LGU officials play an important role as the first line of defense in communities where telecommunications facilities are located. Globe is calling for closer coordination with community officials and tanods to watch vulnerable facilities, report suspicious activity, and help verify whether individuals working on telecommunications equipment are legitimate and authorized crews. Greater attention should also be given to the illegal sale and purchase of stolen cables, equipment, and other network materials, addressing the market that makes infrastructure theft profitable in the first place.

Existing laws already provide avenues to prosecute theft and the buying or selling of stolen property, including provisions of the Revised Penal Code and the Anti-Fencing Law. Globe believes stronger and more consistent enforcement, supported by coordination among national agencies, LGUs, communities, and industry players, can help deter repeat incidents and hold those responsible accountable.

Telecommunications companies continue to invest heavily in network infrastructure to expand and improve services across the country. When equipment is repeatedly stolen or damaged, resources that could otherwise support network expansion and upgrades have to be redirected toward replacing equipment and restoring affected sites.

Globe continues to work with authorities and industry partners to secure network facilities and restore affected sites as quickly as possible. With pilferage already causing more than a thousand site outages this year, Globe is pushing for a coordinated national response that addresses theft from prevention and community vigilance to enforcement and the illegal resale of stolen telecommunications equipment.

Globe Leads Manila in VoLTE Call Setup Speeds as 5G Voice Adoption Evolves

The quality of mobile voice calls is increasingly defined not only by audio clarity but also by how quickly a call connects. According to Ookla data, Globe Telecom leads operators in Manila with a median Voice over LTE (VoLTE) call setup time of just 1.65 seconds, delivering a fast, responsive calling experience.

In comparison, DITO relies heavily on Evolved Packet System (EPS) fallback, where devices transition from 5G to 4G LTE to establish a voice call. This results in a considerably slower median call setup time of 4.59 seconds.

The difference matters because users perceive call setup delays differently depending on how long they are. Psychological research indicates that calls connecting in under two seconds can feel almost instantaneous, while delays exceeding four seconds can create uncertainty and anxiety. Across operators, compliance with the two-second target varies dramatically, ranging from 98.5% to just 0.1% of calls.

Globally, VoLTE remains highly competitive with newer Voice over New Radio (VoNR) technology. VoLTE delivers a global median call setup time of 1.87 seconds, compared with 1.96 seconds for VoNR. VoLTE also has a slightly higher percentage of calls meeting the target setup time, showing that established LTE voice infrastructure remains highly capable.

VoNR nevertheless represents an important step in the evolution of 5G voice services. However, the performance advantage is not universal. Of the eight operators tested, only six connected calls faster using VoNR than VoLTE. Furthermore, the slowest five percent of VoNR calls can experience substantially longer setup times, potentially because of coverage gaps, paging delays, or other network conditions.

The biggest delays occur when devices are forced to use Circuit-Switched Fallback (CSFB) to legacy 3G or 2G networks. CSFB produces a median call setup time of 4.48 seconds, making it approximately 2.4 times slower than VoLTE. More concerning, 5.5% of CSFB calls take longer than 10 seconds to connect.

The findings highlight an important reality in the transition to 5G: newer technology does not automatically guarantee a faster user experience. Network coverage, voice architecture, device behavior, and fallback mechanisms all play critical roles.

For operators, improving voice performance means more than deploying 5G—it means ensuring users can connect quickly and consistently, regardless of network conditions.

Globe Says Private Sector Plays Key Role For PH to Benefit From Pax Silica

As discussions around Pax Silica take shape, Globe sees an opportunity for the Philippine private sector to contribute its capabilities and expertise to the country's broader efforts to strengthen its position in the global technology economy. Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz said collaboration between government and business will be important as the Philippines explores where it can participate across emerging technology industries and global supply chains.

His view echoes Ayala Corporation Chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala's recent call for Philippine businesses to begin considering where their existing strengths and capabilities could contribute to the opportunities emerging from Pax Silica. Rather than waiting for all the details to be defined, Zobel de Ayala pointed to the value of the private sector starting its own conversations and identifying areas where it could potentially participate.

“We see Pax Silica as an important conversation for the country, and the private sector should be part of it,” Cruz said. “Philippine companies already bring different capabilities to the table, and there is value in looking at how these can complement the government's efforts as the opportunities become clearer.”

The discussion comes as the government begins laying out the possibilities for Philippine participation. Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo has outlined a proposed Philippine Technology Corridor with potential nodes covering advanced manufacturing in New Clark City, integrated circuit design and innovation in Metro Manila, AI compute and cloud infrastructure in Batangas, a Pacific-facing connectivity gateway in Aurora, critical minerals in Mindanao, and a potential semiconductor fabrication hub in Bulacan.

Rodolfo has also emphasized that these areas build on industries and capabilities the Philippines has already been developing, rather than opportunities being pursued solely because of Pax Silica. The initiative could provide another avenue to strengthen these efforts and connect the Philippines more closely with a wider international technology ecosystem.

For Globe, the areas of fiberization, connectivity, and data centers are where the company could support this evolving ecosystem. AI, cloud computing, advanced manufacturing, and other technology-intensive industries depend on reliable and resilient digital infrastructure, giving telecommunications companies a natural role in supporting businesses and emerging technology hubs as plans develop.

“Our role is to make sure that, where connectivity is needed, we are ready to support,” Cruz said. “This is a broader national effort, and each industry will have something different to contribute. What is important at this stage is that the private sector is engaged in the conversation and looking at where it can meaningfully help.”

Globe earlier welcomed the opportunities presented by Pax Silica while recognizing that its implementation will require careful consideration of environmental, resource, geopolitical, and other factors. Government officials have similarly stressed that projects pursued under the initiative would remain subject to Philippine laws, labor standards, environmental requirements, and national priorities.

As the country's plans continue to develop, Globe believes sustained dialogue among government, businesses, academe, and other stakeholders can help identify where Philippine capabilities are best positioned to contribute. For the private sector, this means staying engaged, understanding where the opportunities are emerging, and being ready to bring relevant expertise to the table.

Eastern Communications Deepens Visayas Presence, Supporting Businesses in a Digital-First Economy

As businesses across the Visayas accelerate digital transformation, Eastern Communications is deepening its presence in the region, engaging businesses and industry communities on the connectivity, technology, and digital solutions needed to support growth and resilience.

Throughout 2026, the telco company has engaged businesses and industry stakeholders across Cebu, Iloilo, and Boracay, with conversations spanning network resilience, AI and cloud adoption, and the evolving technology needs of businesses outside Metro Manila.

“Being present in these communities allows us to listen more closely to our customers and understand what matters to their businesses. Every interaction is an opportunity to build stronger relationships and create memorable experiences that go beyond the usual business engagement,” said Edsel Paglinawan, Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer of Eastern Communications

Strengthening connections across industries

These engagements reflect the diverse needs of the Visayas business community and its deliberate push into the region. At Gear Up Cebu in May, Eastern brought together businesses, industry leaders, and partners to exchange insights on building more resilient and adaptive organizations in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. The initiative is designed to foster meaningful conversations around the challenges, opportunities, and developments shaping the way businesses operate and grow.

Eastern also participated in the 35th Visayas Area Business Conference, held from May 13 to 15, 2026, in Bacolod City and hosted by the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI). The conference brought together business leaders and stakeholders to discuss a plan of action for supporting the growth and development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the Visayas.

“Supporting the growth of SMEs in the Visayas requires meaningful collaboration among businesses, industry stakeholders, and partners. By coming together and sharing insights on the opportunities and challenges faced by regional enterprises, we can help create a more supportive business environment where SMEs can adapt, grow, and stay competitive,” said Suzel Lim, SME and Consumer Segment Marketing Head at Eastern Communications.

In August, the company joined AI Fest in Iloilo, where Segment Marketing Manager Richmond Bayocot highlighted how the right technology infrastructure can help businesses build more agile, connected, and adaptable operations.

“AI adoption is not simply about having access to new tools. Businesses also need reliable infrastructure that can support how these technologies are integrated into everyday operations,” Bayocot said.

Eastern Communications’ engagement with Cebu’s manufacturing sector likewise continued through Mactan Economic Processing Zone Purchasing Management Association’s (MEPZ-PMA) 10th Suppliers’ Expo 2026, where manufacturers, procurement teams, and business leaders explored AI and emerging technologies. The company shared how digital solutions and reliable network infrastructure can support AI adoption, streamline processes, and help businesses keep pace with evolving technology.

The telco provider’s regional engagement also extends to hospitality and tourism. From its CXO Night gathering with clients and hospitality partners in Boracay to the VisMin Hospitality Summit and Cebu Hotel Connect, Eastern continues to engage industry stakeholders on the role of technology in supporting hospitality operations and growth.

Eastern Communications also took part in the Cebu Business Month 2026 Technology & Innovation Forum, held at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino, where Edsel Paglinawan, Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer, shared insights on how organizations can embrace innovation with purpose, turn bold ideas into practical solutions, and drive sustainable growth in an increasingly digital landscape.

“Innovation is most meaningful when it goes beyond ideas and translates into solutions that address real business needs. As organizations navigate an increasingly digital landscape, the ability to embrace innovation with purpose and turn bold ideas into practical solutions will be key to building sustainable growth,” said Edsel Paglinawan, Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer at Eastern Communications.

Building trust beyond the transaction

Beyond its participation in regional business conversations, Eastern Communications also brings its High Tech, High Touch commitment to life through its Dare To Discover docuseries. In its Dumaguete episode, Eastern highlights how technology and meaningful connections can help support local tourism, businesses, and communities, showcasing the people and stories that make the region unique.

The Dare To Discover: Dumaguete episode offers a closer look at how connectivity can help local businesses and communities create opportunities, reach wider audiences, and share their stories with more people.

Watch the full episode of Dare To Discover: Dumaguete on YouTube.

The company’s growing presence in Visayas reflects its commitment to bringing its High Tech, High Touch approach closer to businesses beyond Metro Manila through collaboration, shared knowledge, and relationships built on the ground.

The throughline remained consistent across every engagement: connectivity works best as an enabler rather than simply being a service. It supports continuity, helps companies adopt new technologies, and gives regional enterprises the operational footing to grow.

As digital transformation reaches more regions, Eastern Communications is helping ensure businesses there have the connectivity and support to keep up.

To learn more about Eastern Communications and its upcoming partnerships, contact 5300-7000 or visit www.easterm.com.ph.

Globe Network Posts Strongest 2026 Performance in August, DICT Report Shows

Globe posted its strongest network performance so far this year in August, recording its highest overall score and fastest average download speed in the latest Telco Report Card of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). The results build on Globe’s continued network investments and ongoing collaboration with the government, including the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), to improve the quality and reliability of telecommunications services across the country.

Globe received an overall score of 81.5, up 4.4 points from January, while average download speed reached a 2026 high of 45.9 Mbps. This was 5.1% faster than July and 26% higher than the 36.5 Mbps recorded at the start of the year, with network quality also improving to 71.2 from 69.2 and latency holding at 20 milliseconds.

The gains come as the NTC continues to work with telecommunications providers to promote service quality and strengthen connectivity for Filipinos. Globe supports this shared push through sustained network investments, technology upgrades, and targeted interventions aimed at improving customer experience, particularly in areas where connectivity remains challenging.

“Customers need a network they can depend on every day, and that goes beyond speed. It means being able to stay connected consistently, including during periods of high demand, disruptions, and emergencies,” said Atty. Froilan Castelo, Globe General Counsel. “The progress we are seeing shows that our investments are making a difference, but there are still communities where the experience needs to be better. That is where we need to keep pushing.”

Globe invested ₱26.3 billion in capital expenditures in the first half of 2026, with 91% directed to data-related initiatives. Its focus on network consistency has earned Globe recognition as the Most Consistent Mobile Provider four consecutive times, based on Ookla® Speedtest Intelligence® data covering 2H 2024 to 1H 2026.

Globe is also strengthening network resilience through automation. Its Automated Outage Response technology can retain up to 50% of data connectivity during outages, compared with less than 10% without it, by automatically optimizing nearby cell sites to help keep customers connected during disruptions.

Extending reliable connectivity to harder-to-reach communities remains part of the same effort. Last July, Globe brought mobile connectivity to 52 previously unserved Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs), completing its commitment to activate services across all 180 project locations under the DICT connectivity initiative.

PLDT Group Backs Antipolo Drive for Safer Digital Spaces

For young Filipinos, the internet has become part of everyday life—for learning, communicating, researching, and recreation. With Filipinos spending an average of eight hours and 52 minutes online each day, helping young people understand how to protect themselves, recognize online risks, and know their rights has become increasingly important.

Recognizing this need, the City Government of Antipolo, through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), brought together government agencies, schools, civil society organizations, and private sector partners for the second run of its Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Public School Caravan on Anti-Trafficking, Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC), and Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Materials (CSAEM).

Building on last year's initiative, the caravan reflects Antipolo's continuing efforts to make child protection relevant to the realities young people face online. The four-leg caravan visited Antipolo National High School, Old Boso-Boso National High School, Binayoyo Integrated School, and San Roque National High School, extending child protection and digital safety discussions to students in different communities across the city.

As advocates for safer spaces for children, PLDT and Smart joined the caravan as partners, helping students better understand digital safety and emerging AI-powered threats. The sessions highlighted how bad actors are increasingly turning to AI to create practical ways to produce CSAEM, underscoring the need for greater awareness and vigilance online. Students were equipped with practical ways to recognize online scams, protect personal information, identify potentially harmful online interactions, and make more informed decisions in digital spaces.

For the city, sustaining the caravan also means giving young people knowledge they can share beyond the classroom and into their homes and communities.

Councilor Robin G. Say, speaking on behalf of Antipolo City Mayor Jun Ynares, likewise emphasized the importance of making digital safety education accessible to young people.

“Programs like this are very timely because they help our students understand important issues that affect them as young people and members of the community. Today, a single click on a cellphone or computer can change many aspects of our lives, so our young people need to know how to use technology responsibly and protect themselves online. We hope they will share what they learn with their classmates, siblings, and families. On behalf of Mayor Ynares, I congratulate the school and the students who are part of this important discussion,” he said.

“The return of the caravan for a second year reflects the importance of sustaining conversations on child protection and digital safety. By bringing these discussions directly to our schools, we can help young people better understand the risks they may encounter online and know where to seek help when they need it. We are grateful to our government, school, civil society, and private sector partners for coming together to help make these conversations possible and reach more children across Antipolo,” said Donita May Mendoza, Registered Social Worker of the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) of Antipolo City.

Law enforcement and child protection partners emphasized that protecting children from online exploitation requires a whole-of-nation approach, with each sector bringing its own expertise to the effort.

“Child protection is a national responsibility. It takes a country to protect a child, and that requires all of us to work together. Each sector has a vital role to play—from prosecution and investigation to social welfare, local government, and education. When we bring these strengths together, we can better protect children, especially because schools are closest to the children we seek to protect,” said Ma. Lara Dominique B. Sanchez, Prosecution Attorney of the Department of Justice.

For the PLDT Group, helping young people understand emerging digital risks is part of promoting safer and more responsible use of technology.

“As technology continues to evolve, so do the ways it can be misused to deceive and exploit people online. Through collaborations like this, we hope to help young people recognize emerging threats, think critically before engaging online, and make safer choices in their digital lives. Protecting children online is a shared responsibility, and partnerships with government, schools, and child protection organizations are essential to making these efforts meaningful,” said Stephanie Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement for PLDT and Smart.

Support for the four-leg caravan is part of the PLDT Group’s #KonektedForSaferInternet advocacy and reinforces the value of multi-stakeholder partnerships in creating safer digital spaces for children.

The initiative also contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by promoting digital safety awareness and child protection collaborations.

Vivo V80 Lite Brings a Massive 10,000mAh Battery to Filipino Users

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Vivo is set to introduce the Vivo V80 Lite, a smartphone featuring a massive 10,000mAh BlueVolt Battery—the largest battery capacity ever offered by Vivo globally. Designed for Filipinos who depend on their smartphones throughout the day, the device aims to provide longer usage between charges without the added bulk commonly associated with high-capacity batteries.

The V80 Lite is powered by 4th Gen Silicon Anode Technology, which allows its large battery to deliver extended endurance while maintaining a practical smartphone design. But beyond battery capacity, Vivo is focusing on how much actual usage consumers can get from a single charge.

According to Vivo laboratory tests, the V80 Lite can deliver up to 30 hours of video streaming, 30 hours of TikTok playback, 68 hours of phone calls, and 14 hours of MLBB gaming under single-app usage scenarios. The tests were conducted under controlled laboratory conditions at an ambient temperature of 25±2°C, with the smartphone starting at 100% charge.

Vivo is also preparing to put the V80 Lite through a record-setting endurance test, with details of the upcoming feat expected to be revealed soon.

“Battery capacity only matters if it translates into time people can actually use their phones,” said Liu Lu, Brand Marketing Director at Vivo Philippines.

Built for Long-Term Battery Health

The V80 Lite is designed not only to provide longer usage between charges but also to maintain battery performance over time. Vivo says the battery is engineered to retain at least 80% of its battery health after 1,400 charging cycles.

Based on Vivo's laboratory-simulated daily usage pattern of approximately 1.83 days per full charge and discharge, this is equivalent to roughly seven years of use.

The smartphone is also designed to operate across temperatures ranging from -30°C to 45°C. Its semi-solid electrolyte is engineered to help maintain stable power delivery in high-heat environments. In laboratory testing at 45°C, the V80 Lite reportedly achieved up to 45 hours of continuous calls and 16 hours of navigation.

For Filipinos using their smartphones for work, communication, navigation, gaming, entertainment, and social media, the Vivo V80 Lite offers a straightforward proposition: more time powered on and a battery designed for the long run.

The Vivo V80 Lite will be arriving soon. Filipino consumers can follow Vivo Philippines on social media for updates about its local availability, launch details, and upcoming endurance milestone.