Security Bank Strengthens Nationwide Presence With 372 Branches

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eastern Communications Expands Reach to Roxas City’s Emerging Digital Hub

Eastern Communications, the Philippines' pioneering telecommunications company and ICT solutions provider continues its mission to empower more businesses across the Philippines as the company launches its services in Roxas City, Capiz. The telco provider officially expanded to the city through its “Via Eastern” launch event held on September 13, 2024, at the San Antonio Resort, Baybay, Roxas City.

“We have Eastern Communications, another partner locator here in Roxas City, as we aim for more practical and efficient IT solutions. As a digital city, our LGU is heavily investing in infrastructure, talents, and utilities,” said honorable Roxas City Mayor, Ronnie Dadivas, in his speech during the Via Eastern Roxas launch event. “On behalf of the city government, we in Roxas City would like to extend our gratitude to Eastern Communications, for its presence and entrance in the city,” he added.

The expansion will provide Roxas-based enterprises with access to cutting-edge digital tools and insights into how digital transformation can propel their growth in an increasingly competitive landscape. As Eastern Communications marks its presence in the area, it plans to extend its services to other cities across Capiz in the future.

"We are excited to bring Eastern Communications' services to Roxas City, supporting its growth and helping it thrive in the digital age," said Mike Castañeda, Vice President and Head of Sales at Eastern Communications. “We are proud to support Roxas City’s vision of becoming a center for business and technology through our ICT solutions by offering business-grade connectivity and digital tools that address the unique needs of the local business landscape.”

Empowering Roxas City’s evolving digital and business landscape

Eastern Communications' expansion into Roxas City aligns with the city's anticipated growth in the coming years, especially after being recognized as one of the digital cities by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP).

Roxas is currently gearing up to establish the nearly 700-hectare Pueblo De Panay Township, which is expected to become the Philippines’ largest techno hub. The township project aims to generate over 40,000 jobs and boost the IT-BPM industry, the key focus area for the city. With a commitment to providing businesses with reliable and scalable digital solutions, Eastern Communications will help Roxas City achieve its goal of becoming a digital hub and fueling local economic growth.

Reliable connectivity and ICT solutions for Roxas City enterprises

With Roxas City's emerging micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), the growing sectors of IT-BPM sector, and tourism, Eastern Communications is ready to support businesses in driving economic development through its business-grade connectivity and customized ICT solutions. The telco provider’s expansion will bring its signature connectivity services to Roxas City, including Eastern Fiber 1, a shared high-speed fiber service designed for SMEs to ensure optimal performance during business hours, and Eastern Internet Direct Service (IDS), a dedicated internet solution tailored for uninterrupted, round-the-clock operations. These services will ensure that businesses of all sizes have access to fast, reliable, and secure internet connections, essential for day-to-day operations and growth.

Eastern Communications will also offer an array of ICT solutions, such as Network Solutions, Cybersecurity Solutions, Cloud and Data Center Solutions, and Business Applications. These services are designed to equip local businesses with the tools they need to succeed in a highly competitive and evolving marketplace. The telco provider’s entry into Roxas City fortifies its nationwide expansion through the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN), the longest undersea fiber cable network in the Philippines spanning 2,500 kilometers. This initiative, in partnership with Globe Telecom Inc. and InfiniVAN, Inc., reinforces Eastern Communications’ mission to provide resilient and reliable internet connectivity across the country. To learn more about Eastern Communications’ products and services, contact 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph.

Adventenergy Expands Services in Mindanao Through Third Millenium Oil Mills Inc. Signing

MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL, PHILIPPINES – Aboitiz Power’s retail electricity supply (RES) company Advent Energy Inc. (AdventEnergy) marked a significant milestone in its regional expansion with the ceremonial signing of a partnership agreement with Third Millenium Oil Mills Inc. (TMOMI), a key producer and distributor of coconut and vegetable oil in Mindanao. 

This collaboration further solidifies the energy supplier’s presence in the region and reinforces its commitment to providing innovative and efficient energy solutions across the Philippines. 

AdventEnergy’s entry into the market also underscores its dedication to enhancing energy accessibility and supporting the region's growing industries.

“Our goal is to provide Mindanao with energy solutions that are both reliable and innovative,” said AdventEnergy’s Vice President for Retail Energy Sales and Solutions Engr. Gina Camacho-David.

“This partnership with TMOMI allows us to bring our expertise to a region critical to the country’s agricultural and industrial sectors. We look forward to supporting TMOMI and other industries in Mindanao.”

The deal comes at a crucial time as the Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA) scheme expands in the region, where at least 239 end-users can choose their electricity suppliers.

The signing ceremony, held at TMOMI’s facility in Mindanao, was attended by key representatives from both companies, including Engr. Camacho-David; James Byron Yu, AdventEnergy First Vice President and Head of Retail; Elviro S. Andoy Jr., TMOMI Plant Resident Manager; and Bryan Tale, TMOMI Plant Superintendent.

A strategic expansion for mutual growth

The deal enhances the company’s reliable and energy-efficient solutions and aligns with its long-term strategy of establishing robust relationships with key industry stakeholders.

"This partnership with TMOMI is consistent with our brand promise of delivering 'Always-on Innovation' to help our partners in the commercial and industrial space. We are committed to creating value beyond just the delivery of retail electricity, but more importantly, being an enabler of industries vital to the country's economic growth," said AdventEnergy’s First Vice President and Head of Retail James Byron Yu.

"TMOMI’s leadership in Mindanao’s coconut and vegetable oil sector makes them an ideal partner as we work to provide energy solutions that meet the region's unique needs.”

As TMOMI strengthens the region's industrial landscape, the partnership will support the company’s advocacy for sustainable and efficient energy use. This collaboration is expected to significantly improve TMOMI’s energy management, ultimately contributing to the company’s operational efficiency and environmental stewardship.

TMOMI Plant Resident Manager Elviro Andoy Jr. expressed his optimism on the impact of AdventEnergy’s services.

“The presence of AdventEnergy in Mindanao is a game-changer for industries like ours,” he said. “Their expertise in providing tailored energy solutions will not only help us optimize our energy consumption but also enable us to contribute more effectively to the region’s economic development. We are excited to work with AdventEnergy as we continue to advance our sustainability goals and support the nation-building initiatives in Mindanao.”

Driving Mindanao’s growth with AdventEnergy’s “Always-on innovation” approach

In support of the RCOA scheme, AdventEnergy is committed to enabling businesses in Mindanao to exercise their freedom in selecting the energy provider that best aligns with their business requirements.

Its portfolio of energy solutions which include Smart Metering, Energy Audits, and Power Management Systems help businesses become operationally efficient, comply with industry regulations, and ultimately, be positioned for growth.

AdventEnergy’s partnership with TMOMI is the first step to building its relationships with local industries in Mindanao and supporting the region’s growth and development. The company is under the AboitizPower’s group which is currently the largest energy retailer group in the country with a 30% market share providing services to more than 500 facilities in Luzon and Visayas.

To learn more about AdventEnergy's recent partnerships and explore how their services can benefit your business, visit https://www.adventenergy.com.ph/partnerships/.

Mylo Speech Buddy Chosen to Represent Philippines at Collision Tech Conference in Canada as It Gears up for Global Expansion

August 2024, Manila, Philippines – Mylo Speech Buddy, an app designed to support individuals with speech delays and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), was selected to represent the Philippines at the Collision Tech Conference in Toronto, Canada. The event featured 500 startups from over 30 countries, providing a global platform for Mylo Speech Buddy to present its health-tech innovation as it prepares for international expansion.

Supported by StartUp Village Philippine President Carlo Calimon and its accelerator program called ‘SOAR,’ DMZ Toronto, and in partnership with the Government of Canada Trade Commission Service, Mylo Speech Buddy was one of four startups representing the Philippines, alongside REVAstaff, Remotify, and uHoo. At the conference, Mylo Speech Buddy pitched its business venture to Canadian partners and investors, aiming to establish strategic partnerships and explore new markets.

Vincent Rocha, CEO and President of Mylo Speech Buddy, emphasized the app's role in aiding nonverbal children to develop their first spoken words. “Being chosen to represent the Philippines at the Collision Tech Conference is a significant opportunity for us to showcase our app's potential in autism support and speech therapy support,” Rocha stated.

Rocha also highlighted the broader implications of the conference for growth in the tech and healthcare sectors. “The opportunities at this event align with our mission to support children with ASD and expand our reach globally,” he added.

According to the 2024 Global Startup Ecosystem Report (GSER), Manila’s startup ecosystem was valued at $6.4 billion at the end of 2023, demonstrating the robust growth and potential of the region's innovation landscape.

Mylo Speech Buddy is focused on global expansion and language localization. “We are working on localizing our content for international markets to make Mylo Speech Buddy accessible worldwide,” Rocha said.

True to its commitment to innovation, Mylo Speech Buddy won first place and secured a pitch prize of $2,500 at the ARISE Plus Ye! Boost Accelerator Program Cohort 3, funded by the European Union and led by the International Trade Centre, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Competitiveness Innovation Group and QBO Innovation.

Dermorepubliq Expands Operations with New Headquarters in Eastwood City Amidst Rapid Skincare Market Growth

Manila, Philippines — Dermorepubliq, TikTok Shop Philippines' top skincare brand, has inaugurated its new corporate headquarters in Cyber Park, Eastwood City, Bagumbayan, Quezon City. This move underscores the company's commitment to driving innovation and growth in the Philippine skincare sector.

This expansion aligns with GlobalData’s market projections, which anticipate the country’s skincare market will reach P78.8 billion by 2026. Dermorepubliq aims to leverage this growth potential by maintaining its focus on providing affordable yet quality skincare solutions and contributing to the exponential growth of the industry.

The newly unveiled 394-square-meter facility is designed to accommodate the brand’s expanding operations. It features modern industrial design elements and includes open office spaces, a conference room, executive offices, a lounge, a pantry, and a reception area. This design aims to optimize operational efficiency while supporting employee productivity and well-being.

“We selected Eastwood for its strategic location and dynamic environment, which align with our goal of creating a balanced and efficient workplace,” stated Keith Sta. Barbara, President and Founder of Dermorepubliq.

The new headquarters will also serve as a hub for customer engagement initiatives, with plans to conduct focus groups to gain insights into consumer preferences and needs and refine product offerings based on this direct feedback.

As Dermorepubliq continues to grow, the local skincare brand also plans to introduce several new and exciting developments planned for later this year. These initiatives will further enhance their product range and solidify their position as a leader in the skincare industry.

LIMA Estate partners with PLDT Enterprise for network infra expansion

(Batangas, Philippines – May 2022) LIMA Estate, the top-selling and largest privately-owned industrial park in the Philippines, has tapped PLDT Enterprise to roll out fiber connectivity within its 794-hectare industrial-anchored development in Lipa-Malvar, Batangas.

LIMA Estate is a mixed-use development zone that hosts 130 locators, 167 retail stores and restaurants, a 138-room 4-star hotel, a transportation hub, and holds over 2,000 households. It also employs over 60,000 employees.

PLDT Enterprise will provide solutions and services to support the connectivity requirements in the area. These include Smart postpaid plans, mobile number portability (MNP), and ePLDT services such as enterprise resource planning (ERP), cloud, and cybersecurity services.

Dennis Magbatoc, AVP and Corporate Relationship Management Head of PLDT Enterprise, said that the fiber rollout would provide high-speed internet, both wired and wireless connectivity, inside the industrial estate’s existing offices and Enterprise locators.

“This project will also provide significant benefits to the Estate’s tenants and residents, giving them a high capacity for their voice, data, and Internet connectivity needs including access to Cloud services,” Magbatoc said.

“We are excited to partner with LIMA Estate as it endeavors to enable fast and reliable Internet connection within their vicinity. We share Aboitiz InfraCapital’s vision to strengthen their network infrastructure to allow efficient and secure telecommunication that is needed to open up new possibilities for LIMA Estate’s future growth,” the PLDT Enterprise executive added.

PLDT Enterprise will also activate a new Smart LTE Site that will be upgraded to 5G in the first quarter of 2022.

Currently, a thriving industrial-anchored estate, LIMA Estate’s developer and operator Aboitiz InfraCapital envisions it to be the next leading mixed-use economic center in the CALABARZON region. It targets to accommodate business process outsourcing companies, dormitories, hotels, schools, hospitals, and other establishments in the coming years.

LIMA Land Vice President for Operations Clifford Academia expressed his gratitude to PLDT Enterprise for their support in enabling connectivity solutions and services essential for the growth and expansion of businesses within the economic zone.

“With this fiber rollout, we are assured of high-quality and reliable internet access for businesses, as well as for homes in the area. With the assistance of PLDT Enterprise, we will have an even greater experience at LIMA as we provide network redundancy, keeping communications services constantly up and running in the premises with little to no downtime,” said Academia.

“This will greatly benefit the requirements of our existing industrial locators as well as the future users in both the industrial expansion and fast-growing Central Business District, especially with the anticipated influx of BPO companies in LIMA Tower One,” he added.

PLDT Enterprise has been assisting various companies and institutions in expanding their network infrastructure.

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com.