Adaptability Is the New Leadership Imperative – PLDT

In a business environment marked by rapid technological advancement, evolving customer expectations, and heightened competitive pressures, adaptability has become a defining trait of effective leadership. This was among the key themes explored during the panel discussion, "Decisions Under Pressure: How Leaders are Navigating 2026," held at the ACC CXO Forum in Hong Kong.

The inaugural ACC CXO Forum brought together decision-makers from the global telecommunications, technology, digital infrastructure, finance, and enterprise sectors to exchange leadership insights and discuss the trends shaping the future of business.

PLDT Senior Vice President and Enterprise Business Group Head Blums S. Pineda joined fellow industry leaders in examining how organizations can remain resilient and competitive amid increasingly complex market conditions.

For Pineda, adaptability has become just as critical as scale or market leadership.

"It's not as simple anymore to rest on your laurels as a B2B or enterprise company and build up to a certain size because you're not sure that what got you there is going to keep you at the top. And that holds true for B2C companies as well."

The discussion also highlighted the growing challenge of strategic planning in an increasingly unpredictable environment. Pineda also noted that leaders today must be more adaptive as customer expectations, technology, and competitive conditions continue to evolve.

Drawing from his experience in global organizations, Pineda also highlighted the value of learning from diverse leadership styles and management approaches.

"I've always had the benefit of paying attention to my leaders above and trying to pick up little things. I think leadership is a story of evolving your craft and evolving yourself and really reflecting on what you can add and what you can steal with pride from others, because if it works in that situation, and if you have that in your toolkit, then you have a much more diverse way to begin to tackle problems that you will find."

As businesses navigate a rapidly changing operating environment, the discussions at the ACC CXO Forum reinforced a common view among today's leaders: success is no longer guaranteed by size, history, or market position alone. Organizations must continuously evolve, adapt, and create value in response to changing market realities.

As Pineda concluded, "It's a harder time to be in business. It's a harder time to be a leader. You can no longer think that you're entitled to something. You have to earn it every day, unfortunately, and I think that's a new normal."

Linggo ng Kabataan: NGO Equips Incoming SK Leaders to Drive Solutions for Children and Young People

Metro Manila, Philippines – Girl and child rights organization Plan International Pilipinas sees leadership potential in Filipino youth and is challenging incoming Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) and Barangay leaders nationwide to champion health, education, gender equality, and child protection. The initiative comes ahead of the SK and Barangay elections and this year's Linggo ng Kabataan.

In Samar, the push was most visible at SIRAK Day on August 11, where Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara joined an estimated 1,000 youth leaders to mark the Sirak Kabataan movement’s 5th anniversary.

The gathering and other youth training initiatives highlight the youth's enthusiasm and leadership capabilities, and the urgent barriers they'll need to address as leaders for their peers.

One in four Filipino adolescents nationwide falls behind academically by age 18; more than 10,600 adolescent mothers were recorded in 2024, with pregnancies rising among girls under 15; child labor reached over half a million in 2025; and nearly 20% of internet-using children aged 12 to 17 have faced grave online sexual abuse and exploitation (OSAEC).

To close these gaps, Plan International Pilipinas facilitated the creation of the Girls' Agenda, a four-point blueprint crafted by 400 girl advocates, focusing on safety, resilience in crisis, health, and education and economic empowerment. Since 2025, the organization has reached 2.83 million people, protected over 740,000 individuals through violence prevention programs, and trained more than 14,000 child protection advocates.

"The Girls' Agenda came directly from young people, mostly girls, who told us where the gaps are," said Twyla Raros David, Country Program Manager for Gender and Child Rights. "Training incoming SK and Barangay leaders to carry that agenda into their own communities is how we turn those numbers around, one barangay at a time."

That vision is already being put into practice. Programs are underway across the Visayas and Mindanao, from Samar’s youth advocacy panels and peer educators to Cotabato City’s mental health initiatives under Plan International Pilipinas’ Global Youth Ambassador program. Among these are the Youth Advisory Panel, which empowers young advocates to influence community decisions; the Youth Peer Educators and Youth Reporters, who train high schoolers on OSAEC, SOGIESC, child rights, mental health, and leadership, enabling them to counsel their schoolmates; and the Girls’ Challenge Grants Group, which equips girls from vulnerable communities to design their own solutions to local problems.

These initiatives, carried out in partnership with local governments, communities, and schools, ensure that SK councils and barangay leaders are supported by trained youth voices. By equipping young advocates with skills in leadership, counseling, and community organizing, Plan International Pilipinas is ensuring young people are not just participants, but primary decision-makers.

As Linggo ng Kabataan is being celebrated across the country, Plan International Pilipinas is urging incoming SK and Barangay leaders nationwide to turn those aspirations into action by translating the Girls' Agenda into concrete local ordinances. These efforts echo the United Nations’ 2026 International Youth Day theme, "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations," underscoring how Filipino youth share the same hopes for safety, health, and opportunity no matter where they live.

To support Plan International Pilipinas' programs and help ensure that every girl has the resources to learn, lead, decide, and thrive, visit their official website or email partnerships.ph@plan-international.org.

Stronger Fraud Prevention, Onboarding Foundations Key to Unlocking Ph’s Next MSME Growth Wave: Industry Leaders

MANILA, Philippines — The financial sector must modernize how it verifies, protects, and extends credit to millions of unique micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to accelerate financial inclusion across the Philippines, industry leaders urged.

At 'The Anatomy of Merchant Trust' executive roundtable co-hosted by IDfy and Mastercard in Manila, executives across banking, fintech, and payments concurred that while consumer adoption of digital payment channels like QR Ph has surged past 57% according to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data, traditional merchant infrastructure must evolve to serve the distinct needs of every small vendor, from urban startups to neighborhood sari-sari stores.

The discussion highlighted a critical systemic challenge currently holding legitimate businesses back. Because traditional merchant identity verification remains fragmented and unverified at the micro-level, it cascades into ecosystem-wide trust issues that compel institutions to enforce rigid, blanket risk policies. Consequently, vast numbers of honest, high-potential merchants who simply lack paper credit histories are turned away from the formal digital economy.

Leaders present at the event highlighted the importance of addressing the gap to complement government-led empowerment efforts. Initiatives like the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) “Tindahan Mo, e-Level Up Mo!” have successfully equipped thousands of small merchants with digital literacy and cashless payment tools. Financial sector leaders emphasized that by streamlining merchant onboarding, such as replacing legacy paper checks and physical audits with automated, risk-based verification, banks and fintechs can seamlessly welcome these newly enabled businesses into the fold.

Internal industry polling conducted during the session underscored this sentiment, with executives identifying business document verification and compliance checks as the single highest-priority workflow for automation, scoring 4.4 out of 5.

Beyond onboarding, attendees noted that safeguarding merchants requires moving from point-in-time checks to continuous protection. By deploying real-time behavioral analytics and continuous fraud monitoring, institutions can defend against threats such as document forgery, deepfakes, and post-approval misuse without creating unnecessary friction for legitimate vendors.

“Merchant trust is no longer a one-time verification exercise—it is a continuous lifecycle,” said Raghuraman Chandrashekhar, PH Country Head of IDfy. “As digital payments scale across the Philippines, institutions must move away from fragmented onboarding and adopt intelligent, risk-based systems that unify identity verification, alternative data, and real-time monitoring. The future of financial inclusion depends on enabling MSMEs to be onboarded quickly and safely at scale.”

To bridge the credit gap for small vendors, financial institutions are increasingly leveraging alternative data, such as digital payment records, utility payments, and transaction footprints. Paired with progressive lending models that scale credit limits as merchants grow, alternative underwriting could unlock formal financing for over one million underserved merchants nationwide.

“Merchant trust extends well beyond onboarding. As more businesses participate in the digital economy, the industry needs to strengthen collaboration across banks, payment providers, fintechs, and technology stakeholders,” said Jason Crasto, Mastercard’s Country Manager for the Philippines. “Each stakeholder brings unique capabilities, perspectives, and expertise to the table. Through stronger public-private collaboration, shared intelligence, and advanced risk solutions, we can build a more secure, scalable, and inclusive digital ecosystem that empowers Philippine MSMEs to grow with confidence.”

By rebuilding onboarding foundations and adopting continuous risk intelligence, industry leaders agreed that the Philippines can transform strict risk barriers into pathways of opportunity, ensuring every legitimate merchant has the access, security, and capital needed to thrive in the digital economy.

For more information on the roundtable discussion, you may visit www.idfy.ph.

Trust, Technology, and Governance Take Focus at Future of Trust Leaders Forum

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Trust is the new infrastructure. As data, money, and identity move deeper into the digital world, systems have to be built to protect them. This will be the focus of Future of Trust: A Leaders Forum on Technology and Governance, the pre-opening event of Philippine Blockchain Week (PBW) 2026.

This invitation-only forum will gather senior leaders from the global technology ecosystem, the business community, and government agencies to discuss ways to address the challenges of the digital age through the establishment of trusted systems across finance, governance, and digital services.

"Every great economy is built on trust. What blockchain gives us is the infrastructure to make that trust verifiable, scalable, and impossible to fake,” said Management Association of the Philippines President, Donald Lim.

To answer how trust is built in a digital world, the forum organizes the conversation into three interconnected pillars. Technology lays the infrastructure through blockchain, digital identity, and AI governance. Governance sets the rules through the policies and frameworks that make digital systems legitimate and accountable. Lastly, Trust Economies show the stakes through the markets, capital, and ecosystems that rise or fall on whether trust can be verified and sustained.

The forum is an initiative of the country's leading emerging technology councils and organizations — the Global AI Council Philippines, the Blockchain Council of the Philippines, Cybersecurity Council of the Philippines, and Data Center Association of the Philippines — with support from Go Digital Philippines and other private organizations, bringing together the full breadth of expertise needed to move these conversations from dialogue into action.

These are not abstract concepts for the Philippines; they are already taking shape on the ground. Key government agencies, including the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Department of Information and Communications Technology, the Securities and Exchange Commission, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Budget and Management, and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), are already embedding digital governance into their operations.

Two local government units have also gone live on blockchain, proving that this technology has moved well beyond the boardroom and into the hands of the communities it has always been meant to serve.

Future of Trust is a fitting opener for this year’s Philippine Blockchain Week – setting the tone for national and regional dialogue on meaningful and accessible digital transformation.

“Emerging technologies are reshaping how governments, businesses, and communities operate. The opportunity is immense, but so is the responsibility to create governance frameworks that ensure transparency, accountability, and meaningful safeguards for the public,” said Atty. Mark Gorriceta, Co-Founder and Trustee of the Blockchain Council of the Philippines and Go Digital Philippines Chair.

While Future of Trust is by-invitation-only, PBW 2026 ticket holders may secure their slot at this landmark forum.rite to info@pbw.ph to find out more.

Meanwhile, the Integrity Chain, a blockchain-powered transparency initiative, has completed its first phase with the DPWH and is now moving into its second, showing that blockchain as an anti-corruption infrastructure is no longer a theory but a reality.

PLDT Confident Amid Potential Satellite Market Entry: ‘Let’s Slug It Out’

PLDT Inc. says it is open to competition and is confident in its network leadership position, amid reports about the possible entry of satellite connectivity players into the Philippine market this year.

Addressing questions at PLDT’s recent earnings press conference, Chief Operating Officer and Network Head Menardo “Butch” G. Jimenez said: “We don’t know exactly who is coming in or what specific services they intend to offer, but as with any potential entrant, we take competition seriously.”

Jimenez underscored PLDT’s long-standing approach to competition, which is to respond decisively while continuing to strengthen the company’s own capabilities. “Our job is to compete and to win,” he said. “Historically, it is easier to compete with new entrants than with players that already have established scale. Our strategy is to be proactive from day one.”

Noting that initial information indicated that these firms are direct to cell satellite providers, Jimenez also offered a measured view of the current state of the technology, based on existing market tests and user experience.

'Four-minute SMS'

“At this particular point in time, we’re not as scared of direct-to-cell technology,” he said, adding that the customer experience still leaves much to be desired. “Basic services such as SMS can take as long as four minutes to send and another four minutes to receive--if you're lucky. Data-heavy applications like video streaming are not practical today through direct-to-cell technology. That said, these technologies will likely improve over time.”

Jimenez stressed that PLDT is not dismissing satellite connectivity, noting that it can play a complementary role, particularly in niche or backup use cases. “Satellite services can be useful, especially as redundancy in hard-to-reach areas,” he said. “But for everyday connectivity, customers expect fast, reliable, and seamless service.”

He also pointed to the extensive reach of PLDT and Smart’s mobile and fixed networks. “Our mobile coverage today reaches about 97 percent of the population,” Jimenez said, noting that this means satellite connectivity addresses a very specific segment of use cases, rather than the daily needs of most Filipinos.

Looking ahead, Jimenez acknowledged that satellite technology will continue to evolve — and said PLDT intends to evolve alongside it. “These services will get better, and when they do, we also have to get better,” he said. “Our focus remains on delivering the best possible service for the Philippines.”

Jimenez closed by welcoming healthy competition. “If they want to work with us, Philippine telcos, then good. But if they want to directly compete with us, then let's slug it out," he said. “We are not going to back out of that fight.”

Mansmith Awards 2026 Recognizes 1LIFE, Inc. President for Long-Term, Tech-Driven Healthcare Impact Beyond Leadership

Makati, Philippines – Niño Namoco, President of 1Life, Inc., has been honored as a recipient of the 5th Mansmith Innovation Awards, joining a roster of business leaders recognized for transformative leadership and innovative contributions across emerging and evolving sectors, including healthcare, health technology, retail, digital commerce, culinary arts, and media.

The award, founded by award-winning entrepreneur Josiah Go, was formally presented during the 2026 Mansmith Awards at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza in Makati City on January 21. The program honors 12 industry leaders for creativity, vision, and long-term impact, with four executives specifically recognized for innovation, having introduced groundbreaking concepts that transform industries and foster a culture of enduring growth.

Past Mansmith Innovation Awards recipients have included Jean Henri Lhuillier of Cebuana Lhuillier, Martha Sazon of GCash (Mynt), and Dennis A. Uy of Converge ICT Solutions.

This year’s awards highlight how these leaders are moving beyond short-term gains. Spanning digital innovation, customer-focused entrepreneurship, and sustained institutional contributions, the honorees underscore that meaningful development is anchored in lasting value and not profit margins alone.

Reflecting on the award and 1Life’s work, Namoco shared, “The achievements of 1Life are the result of collective effort. Every milestone was built on the sacrifices, commitment, and hearts of my co-founders. United by a shared purpose, we asked ourselves: ‘What is the value of innovation if it does not reach the people who need it most?’ That question became our mission. That mission became 1Life.”

At 1Life, Namoco has spearheaded a technology-enabled approach to healthcare delivery, leveraging artificial intelligence to improve access to early detection and preventive care nationwide. Under his leadership, the healthcare tech company has served over one million patients in just two years across all 81 provinces and 1,335 cities/municipalities, reaching 18,181 localities nationwide, while conducting daily medical runs with multidisciplinary teams through field deployments.

Central to 1Life’s model is the integration of community-based care, advanced diagnostics, and AI-driven workflows. Innovations such as the 1Life Digital Community Healthcare System, portable diagnostic devices, DocMate AI, and the 1Life Health app have streamlined the care system, reducing traditional multi-day care journeys into a single, efficient visit.

In addition to technology, 1Life has strategic partnerships with PhilHealth, DepEd caravans, local government units, and other national agencies, integrating services with various cities/municipalities and provinces to complement local barangay health systems. With healthcare in the Philippines facing rising needs, workforce shortages, and growing reliance on digital solutions, 1Life’s model exemplifies how technology and community-focused strategies can address systemic challenges while improving patient outcomes.

"At 1Life, our innovation is simple: healthcare should not be a privilege. It shouldn’t depend on your zip code, your income, or who you know. We innovate for the last mile, for the overlooked, and for the underserved communities that rarely show up in business plans because they’re not always “profitable.”" Namoco said in his speech.

Namoco’s vision emphasizes patient-centered care and innovation for social impact. His approach demonstrates how technology and data, grounded in human-centered care, can expand access to quality preventive healthcare in rural and remote communities.

The 2026 Mansmith Awards, presented by Mansmith and Fielders, Inc., honor innovation, entrepreneurship, and long-term impact. This year, the program expands its recognition with two new distinctions alongside the Mansmith Innovation Awards: the Mansmith Entrepreneur Awards and the Mansmith CEO Lifetime Achievement Awards, celebrating leaders who exemplify sustainable growth and visionary leadership.

For more information on 1Life’s technology-enabled healthcare services and community programs, visit https://about.1life.ph/.

Bitget Appoints Ignacio Aguirre Franco as New Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) to Lead Global Expansion

Manila, Philippines — Bitget, one of the world’s leading Web3 companies, recently announced the appointment of Ignacio Aguirre Franco as its newly minted Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).

Ignacio has over fifteen years of experience in the fields of technology, fintech, and blockchain, and has held senior positions at internationally renowned companies such as Adobe, SAP, Scorechain, and Xapo Bank. These experiences have positioned him as an expert in global brand operations, digital transformation, and user growth.

“Ignacio brings a mix of technical fluency and creative vision, which aligns perfectly with our mission,” said Gracy Chen, Bitget CEO, in a statement welcoming Ignacio’s appointment. “His direction will influence how we link innovation, culture, and community globally as Bitget develops into a true Universal Exchange (UEX).”

Ignacio’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Bitget, a company advancing its vision as a UEX. To achieve this goal, he as CMO will be tasked to drive the seamless integration of CeFi, DeFi, and TradFi ecosystems to create a diversified financial ecosystem that enables “one-stop access to global assets.”

“For too long, finance has been a fractured landscape; my mission at Bitget is to dismantle those old barriers,” Ignacio Aguirre Franco, Bitget CMO, said in his letter.

“We’ve already built a powerhouse for over 120 million people, and my core mission as CMO is to take that to 150 million and beyond, aiming toward the bold goal of reaching the next billion users by 2030,” he added.

More than just leading the brand’s global marketing initiatives, Ignacio will be focusing on enhancing product storytelling and driving mass adoption of Bitget’s key innovative products, including Onchain, GetAgent, and Stock Futures.

His approach will simplify complex and technical products while injecting creativity, positioning Bitget as both a financial and cultural platform for the next generation of users.

“To achieve this, we will focus on building value. I will ensure that the story of the UEX and the blueprint for the future of finance, resonates with billions of people across the globe—making secure access to crypto and RWA a reality for every person,” Ignacio stressed.

These efforts will provide key momentum for the company to achieve its goal of surpassing 150 million users by 2026.

Security Bank Wins International Award for Leadership in Financial Crime Compliance

Security Bank Corporation (PSE:SECB) has been named Best In-House Due Diligence and Third-Party Risk Solution in the Fraud & Financial Crime category at the 8th Regulation Asia Awards for Excellence, affirming the Bank’s commitment to building smarter, safer, and more customer-centric compliance systems.

The award recognizes the Bank’s breakthrough Transactor Due Diligence (Project TeDD) initiative—a fully digital, risk-sensitive due diligence platform that strengthens financial crime controls while dramatically improving the customer experience.

Designed to meet and exceed regulatory expectations, Project TeDD streamlines how clients provide and update their information. Whether through a branch, online appointment, or kiosk, clients can securely complete the process in minutes. What once took up to 14 minutes can now be done in as fast as five minutes, with even faster processing for returning transactors—reducing wait times and elevating convenience without compromising safety.

“In an environment shaped by increasingly complex regulations, our goal is not just to comply—but to lead with innovation, protection, and customer focus,” said Anna Christina Chinjen, SVP and Chief Compliance Officer. “Project TeDD helps us stay ahead of financial crime risks, protect our clients, and deliver BetterBanking that is simpler, more intuitive, and more secure.”

Beyond efficiency, Project TeDD strengthens real-time monitoring and financial crime detection, helping protect clients from fraud and identity-related risks. Since its launch in November 2024, the platform has served over 200,000 transactors and reduced the Bank’s environmental footprint—saving an estimated 190-280 kg of CO2 emissions by shifting from paper-based to digital processing.

Now in its eighth year, the Regulation Asia Awards for Excellence is one of the region’s most respected industry recognitions, attracting over 180 entries across Asia Pacific. Entries undergo a rigorous two-month evaluation by Regulation Asia’s editorial and research teams, together with an independent panel of industry experts.

PLDT, Smart Back YSEALI in Championing Cyber Safety Among Youth Leaders

Recognizing that young people are on the frontlines of building safer digital communities, PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) recently joined the YSEALI Cyberbayanihan Summit 2025 in Davao City, empowering the next generation of responsible digital citizens.

Jointly organized by the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Philippines, YSEALI Amplify 9.0, Lyceum of the Philippines University–Davao, and the USG Alumni Association–Davao, the event gathered youth from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao for a Training of Trainers program to strengthen their capacity to promote cybersecurity awareness and digital inclusion in their communities.

“In this age of rising digital threats, it’s encouraging to see young leaders step up as local cybersecurity champions. We recognize the critical role we play in promoting internet safety, and our goal is to ensure that Filipinos, especially the youth, are equipped to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Stakeholder Engagement Head at PLDT and Smart.

Through its #BeCyberSmart program, the PLDT group equipped participants with tools to fight scams, phishing, and online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, empowering them to lead their own cyber education initiatives nationwide. PLDT and Smart also opened the PLDT Innolab to the participants, highlighting its role in promoting innovation and cybersecurity practices among Filipino youth and startups.

“As a YSEALI alumna and part of PLDT’s innovation team, it’s meaningful to serve as project officer for the YSEALI Cyberbayanihan Summit and bring PLDT into this impactful collaboration. This initiative showcases how youth, innovation, and purpose can come together to build a safer and more empowered digital community,” said Kristine Dara Ever Juan, PLDT Head for Innovation Lab & Ecosystem Partnerships (Innolab).

Throughout the summit, participants engaged in interactive learning sessions on responsible digital citizenship and emerging technologies. Design thinking activities and campaign development exercises helped them present ideas to promote safer, cyber-resilient communities.

“The YSEALI Cyberbayanihan Summit empowered me to use digital tools responsibly to protect and amplify the voices of young indigenous peoples. I’m grateful to PLDT and Smart for supporting this initiative, which inspires us to become Cyberbayanihan advocates for our communities,” shared Boi Anna Jessa Mae Y. Crisostomo, National Spokesperson of the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Youth Organization.

This collaboration reflects PLDT and Smart’s commitment to promoting digital literacy, cybersecurity, and online safety, helping build a stronger, more inclusive digital Philippines, where empowered youth lead the way toward a better, connected future.

Alsons Dev Announces Leadership Succession with Jolla Soriaga as VP and GM

Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) has appointed Jolla A. Soriaga as Vice President and General Manager, effective November 1, 2025. She succeeds Eric D. de la Costa, who has retired after 26 years of dedicated service. The leadership transition underscores Alsons Dev's continued commitment to operational excellence and organizational strength.

Soriaga brings with her over 25 years of experience within Alsons Dev. She has taken on progressive leadership roles in business development, contributing to the successful delivery of flagship residential and mixed-use projects such as Las Terrazas, Northcrest, Fernwood, Wood Lane, Eden Ridge, and Northtown. Before her appointment, she served as Assistant Vice President for Business Development and Operations. In her new capacity, Soriaga will oversee the company’s day-to-day management, strategic initiatives, and governance.

Her appointment comes as Eric D. de la Costa concludes a remarkable tenure with the company. He began his career with Alsons Dev in 1995 and rose from consultant to Vice President and General Manager. Under his leadership, the company broadened its footprint and product mix with the launch of Northtown, Alsons Dev’s first township project; Nurtura, Alsons Dev’s mid-cost housing brand; and Avia Estate, a major township development in Sarangani. His guidance and people-centered approach have shaped the organization and its culture over the years.

As the company ushers in this new chapter, Alsons Dev expresses its gratitude to de la Costa for his invaluable contributions and extends its full confidence to Soriaga as she takes on her new role, continuing the company’s mission of building vibrant, sustainable communities.

To learn more about Alsons Dev and its developments, visit https://alsonsdev.com/

Security Bank Earns Three Golden Arrow Awards for Leadership in Corporate Governance

Makati, Philippines – Security Bank Corporation received three Golden Arrows from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) for excellence in corporate governance, underscoring its commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership.

Presented on October 23, 2025, at Okada Manila, the recognition was based on the Bank’s ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) rating of 100–109 points, placing Security Bank among the region’s top companies in upholding best governance practices.

“Receiving the Three Golden Arrows is a proud moment for Security Bank as it affirms the strength of our governance framework and the trust placed in us by our stakeholders,” said Atty. Cirilo P. Noel, Chairman of Security Bank. “This recognition motivates us to push further—enhancing our practices, fostering accountability, and creating sustainable value for the communities we serve.”

This milestone strengthens Security Bank’s commitment to its BetterBanking promise—continuing to lead with integrity, enhancing its governance framework, and embracing evolving standards that shape a more resilient and forward-thinking financial institution.

Championing Human-Centered AI in the Workplace: GCash Chief People Officer Recognized Among Southeast Asia’s Top 100 HR Leaders

The chief people officer of GCash, Robert Conrad Gonzales, joins this year’s 100 Most Influential HR Leaders from Southeast Asia, an annual awarding of top HR executives who have made exceptional contributions to leadership, innovation, and transformation in the HR industry. Recipients of this prestigious citation are selected based on social media influence, engagement, industry awards, community impact, thought leadership, and pioneering HR practices. It also considers the impact of HR initiatives on revenue growth and overall market influence.

Gonzales believes that artificial intelligence (AI) is meant to improve the productivity of their employees rather than replace them. Gonzales, who is the highest-ranking Human Resources (HR) officer of GCash, affirmed the company’s unwavering commitment to putting people first in the age of automation. GCash is the Philippines’ leading finance app and largest cashless ecosystem, and an innovative fintech company that has already received several recognitions as one of the best companies to work for.

“HR should champion automation and lead in adapting to technology, including AI, because our people need it, our employees rely on it,” said Gonzales. “If we do this right, our people will become more productive and serve our customers even better. Invest in people, champion leadership development, and embrace innovation. The future belongs to organizations that prioritize their people as their greatest asset.”

Recognized for his contributions to the HR landscape, Gonzales was awarded during the recently held Future Forward Philippines 2025, which was organized by The Economic Times, the second most widely read English language business daily after The Wall Street Journal.

Driving business transformation or becoming obsolete in the age of AI?

During the whole day of the event, Gonzales was in the panel discussion titled ‘The Great Debate of HR at a Crossroads: Driving Business Transformation or Becoming Obsolete in the Age of AI?’ He was joined by other HR icons—Cebu Pacific Air chief human resource officer Felix Dan Lopez, Globe Telecom Inc. chief human resource officer Renato Manuel Jiao, and ETHRWorld/ETEducation features editor Yasmin Taj, who served as the moderator.

Looking to the future, Gonzales sees artificial intelligence as a game-changer in transforming how organizations approach leadership development. “AI-powered talent identification and predictive analytics will revolutionize how we discover and grow high-potential leaders,” he said. “We’re also leaning into personalized, AI-driven learning paths that adapt to each employee’s growth trajectory because in a market that changes overnight, static development models just don’t cut it.”

GCash is already putting these innovations to work. “We’re expanding our use of AI-driven career development tools and enhancing our leadership programs with real-world business simulations,” Gonzales shared. “This enables us to gauge better readiness, drive engagement, and close skill gaps faster than ever.”

To ensure these efforts yield a measurable impact, GCash is tracking leadership transition rates, retention of high-potential talent, and post-transition business performance. Continuous feedback loops and engagement surveys are utilized to refine strategies and ensure succession pipelines remain future-ready.

Putting people first in an AI-powered workplace

Gonzales shared that GCash’s AI efforts stem from a deep commitment to employee well-being and operational excellence. He explained that AI doesn’t just enhance customer experience but also makes employees happier by improving their welfare.

“We have a strong commitment to keep our people happy and engaged,” Gonzales said. “Many of our AI innovations are driven by employee needs. For example, team members want faster and more accurate processing of benefits and allowances. That’s why we developed an AI-powered tool called AGA.”

AGA, which stands for Alagang GCash Assistant, is a Gen AI-powered tool that automates and streamlines employee benefits processing. From wellness allowances to flexible benefits processing, AGA enables faster, error-free transactions.

Gonzales leaves HR leaders with a pointed message: “HR is no longer a support function but rather a strategic driver of growth. Invest in people. Champion leadership development and embrace innovation in workforce planning. The organizations that do this will be the ones leading tomorrow.”

For more information, visit www.gcash.com.

Globe Powers Ahead in 2025 With a Bold Vision for Digital Innovation and Industry Leadership

Globe sustains strong momentum in 2025, building on a year of solid financial gains and operational performance while continuing to lead with innovation in the delivery of digital services.

Carlo Puno, Globe’s Chief Financial Officer, said the company continues to work on meeting its cash flow targets for the year and maintaining the steady results across its core businesses.

“Globe is beginning 2025 with a stable financial foundation and very clear priorities. We continue to execute with discipline while maximizing the value of our portfolio. This puts us in a favorable position to deliver consistent results and drive long-term impact,” Puno shared.

The company’s positive outlook builds on its standout performance last year, having achieved record highs across key financial indicators.

Growth is expected to continue in mobile and corporate data services, which have proven to be reliable drivers of revenue and profitability.

In 2024, Globe’s service revenues reached an all-time high of Php165 billion, up 2% year-on-year, led by the strength of mobile and corporate data.

Corporate data also posted a record, growing 11% to Php20.4 billion while Mobile Business revenues reached a record Php116.7 billion, with mobile data revenues reaching an all-time high of Php97.4 billion, up 7% from the previous year. This growth was fueled by Filipinos’ increasing reliance on mobile applications for various online activities. As a result, mobile data now accounts for 83% of total mobile revenues, up from 81% in 2023.

Mobile data users totaled 37.4 million out of 60.9 million subscribers by year-end.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) rose 7% to Php86.8 billion, the highest in Globe’s history. The EBITDA margin stood at 52.6%, exceeding guidance, as the company tightened costs and improved efficiency despite inflationary challenges.

Core net income after tax (NIAT) climbed 14% to Php21.5 billion, with normalized NIAT at Php21.7 billion, up 13%.

Capital expenditure was Php56.2 billion, down 20% in line with guidance. This demonstrates Globe’s careful balance between optimizing its network and ensuring financial sustainability.

Globe moves through 2025 with confidence, backed by sound fundamentals and a focused strategy that emphasizes innovation, financial strength, and purposeful investment, advancing its vision to Go Forward Together with every Filipino.

To learn more about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

TEDx Brings TEDxUPV Women Event at the Theatre at Solaire, Features 26 Global Leaders in Lifestyle, Leadership, and Legacy

October 2024, Manila, Philippines — A first-of-its-kind TEDx event is set to take place in the Philippines. TEDxUP Visayas (TEDxUPV) Women: Anchored in Tech will feature a lineup of influential speakers from various industries, sharing their insights and experiences on November 15, 2024, at The Theatre at Solaire, Entertainment City, Aseana Ave, Parañaque.

The event, with Solaire Resort Entertainment City as the main sponsor and co-presenter, marks the first TEDx conference in the region with a dedicated focus on technology and its impact across various sectors.

The theme "Anchored in Tech" aims to spotlight the importance of forward-thinking leadership and the role of technology in shaping society’s future through thought-provoking talks and discussions.

TEDxUPV Women will bring together 26 prominent speakers from diverse industries, each poised to share insights on resilience, innovation, and growth in an era of rapid technological advancement. The event is structured around three core themes—Lifestyle, Leadership, and Legacy—each led by notable industry leaders, influencers, and innovators.

Headlining speakers include:

• Jade Bonacolta, Head of North America Marketing at Google and LinkedIn influencer with over 370,000 followers, is known for her platform The Quiet Rich

• Nikki Huang, writer, and content creator known for her unique insights into media and society

• Lotis Ramin, Country Manager at AstraZeneca, with extensive experience in healthcare and pharmaceutical leadership

• Belle Rodolfo, beauty editor, and digital content creator in the fashion and lifestyle industries.

• Dr. Fabi Carino, an award-winning HR professional celebrated for her contributions to organizational development

• Andria Nicolas, CMO of Rising Tigers to talk about the rising leaders in the region

In the Lifestyle track, attendees will hear from leaders like Andrea del Rosario, co-founder of Philippines' Top 30 Leaders on LinkedIn, and Sydney Lai, head of developer advocacy at Gaia and CTO at EVM Capital. This segment will explore the intersection of personal growth and technological progress, focusing on how tech influences modern lifestyles.

The Leadership segment will feature Mara Schulze, co-founder and managing director of PINO Studio, Susan Blanchet, CEO and founder of Origen Air, and Chezka Gonzales, founding vice president of the Blockchain Council of the Philippines. These speakers will address the challenges and opportunities of leading in a digital age.

In Legacy, speakers such as Nandini Singh, a political activist, and Rana Gujral, CEO of Behavioral Signals, will discuss the lasting impact of technological and social leadership on future generations.

TEDxUPV Women offers an unparalleled opportunity for attendees to engage with trailblazers from across the globe, gaining actionable insights and bold ideas designed to inspire change. Supporting the TEDxUPV Women are Rising Tigers, VP Events, What Matters Coworking + Playlab, The Astbury, and Ifacilitate Thrive.

Tickets are now available for reservations, with early-bird discounts available at lu.ma/v7pnv8bf.

Learn more about the event at www.manilatedx.com, or contact the organizers for partnership inquiries at hello@manilatedx.com or franchezka.22c@gmail.com.

New Bold University Concludes Visionary NXT Masterclass, Equipping Future Brand Leaders to Create Socially Impactful Brands

May 2024, Manila, Philippines — New Bold University (NBU) has successfully wrapped up its "Visionary NXT: Branding Masterclass for the Next Big Brands," a pioneering event that brought together over 50 founders from across the Philippines. Held from May 10 to 11, 2024 at The Astbury in Makati City, this masterclass marked a significant step in empowering the next generation of brand leaders with the skills and insights needed to create socially impactful brands.

The two-day event featured a diverse group of entrepreneurs, startup founders, and marketing professionals who delved into advanced marketing strategies and brand development. With the rise of AI and new technologies, the cost of creating a brand has decreased, making it accessible to more people. Visionary NXT aimed to help participants build more enduring and mission-driven brands that can adapt to the fast-changing market landscape.

NBU Founder Ralph Layco led the masterclass, offering sessions on "Masterminding Your Next Big Brand" and "Building Your Brand’s DNA for Success" during its first day. Layco emphasized the importance of strategic thinking and preparedness for the evolving business environment.

"We believe that by investing in today's brand founders, we can create a stronger future with well-intentioned and strategic brand owners prepared for changing times. This year's masterclass exceeded our expectations, showing us that the next wave of brand leaders is ready to make a meaningful impact," said Layco.

The masterclass featured several notable speakers, including Rolling Media Founder Jozelle Tech, who discussed "The Brand Hero: Unleashing the Founder’s Inner Powers and Story," and Colourette Cosmetics CEO Nina Dizon, who shared her journey in "How I Built a ‘Cult’ Brand: The Colourette Magic & Mission."

On the second day, participants engaged in workshops and discussions led by industry experts. Sessions included "Community Building" by Tala by Kyla Founder Janet Kyla, and a panel discussion featuring Pam Chan and Layco that addressed audience questions. Good Diva Marketing Founder Mariella Tiano shared insights on "TikTok Marketing," while Layco explored "Future Meetings: Talking to Your Future Self." Layco and Agyle Brands Founder Guita Gopalan also examined "Building the Next Big Brand in the Philippines."

By cultivating this community, NBU aims to inspire participants to go beyond conventional approaches and create brands that thrive in the market while making a positive societal impact.

"Our vision is to cultivate a community of visionary brand builders who will drive innovation and create disruptive brands that make a meaningful impact in the country. Entrepreneurship is not exclusive, it is for anyone with the dream, vision, and determination to adapt and succeed. If we have more founders with the right mindset, we can solve more local problems, and we can contribute to a brighter future for the Philippines." said Layco.

Eastern Communications Clinches Double Victory at 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards for Network Infra and Thought Leadership

Manila, Philippines — Eastern Communications, the Philippines’ premier telecommunications provider, gained international recognition as a Bronze Stevie Award winner at the 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards. The award-giving body honors outstanding achievements in business across the region, celebrating organizations and individuals who demonstrate excellence in various fields.

"We are honored to be recognized once again by the APAC Stevie Awards. This win reaffirms our role in driving the digital transformation in the Philippines. We will continue to empower businesses and communities through our infrastructure expansion and ICT education initiatives,” said Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications.

Eastern bagged the bronze award for Innovation in Technology Management, Planning & Implementation (Telecommunications Industries) for its nationwide campaign to bolster its infrastructure, expand its presence, and support various telecommunication needs throughout the Philippines.

With a dedicated investment of Php 4.3 billion, the company successfully achieved over 98% expansion of its network footprint by the end of 2023. Its strategic initiatives included the deployment of a terrestrial and submarine cable infrastructure across key regions, facilitating enhanced connectivity and access to digital services in previously underserved areas.

Eastern’s continued support for the nation’s digital transformation was exemplified through its collaboration with the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) project, establishing resilient undersea fiber-optic connectivity to 24 segments and 33 points of interconnection (POIs).

Moreover, the company maintained its position as an industry thought leader by securing the bronze recognition for Thought Leadership Campaign of the Year once again. Its B2B campaign for focus industries provided valuable insights and support across key industries to navigate the challenges of the post-pandemic market.

Through strategic partnerships with industry associations and business chambers, Eastern Communications launched the Ehuddle and Eastern Huddle campaigns that featured webinars, on-ground learning sessions, and events focused on topics such as resilience, digital transformation, and future-proofing businesses.

“We believe that digitalization will propel businesses forward. By sharing our expertise with Filipino enterprises, we not only support their individual growth but also contribute to the economic progress of our community and stakeholders," said Vince Tempongko, Eastern Communications’ Co-Coordinator.

"As we continue to launch new products and build meaningful partnerships, we endeavor to bring innovations that will drive sustainable growth and progress across the nation," he added.

To learn more about Eastern Communications’ products and services, contact 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph.

Women telco leaders share what malasakit truly means with Leaders on the Go

In a cozy auditorium at Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) headquarters in Makati City, around 50 employees gathered to listen and converse with two women leaders at PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and wireless unit Smart, who made important contributions inspiring change, especially during challenging times. This session marked the return of the face-to-face version of Leaders on the Go, a learning series organized by the People Group of PLDT Group.

PLDT and Smart First Vice President and Head of Network Build, Operations, and Management Debbie Hu underscored the role of the network team during crises. “Whether it be a crisis like typhoons or other problems, we are at the forefront of making things happen for the Filipino people. We are in the right place, right position to make relevant contributions to improve the lives of our Filipinos.”

Being a woman in a male-dominated profession, Hu was not exempted from struggling in her field because of her gender.

“During the earlier part of my career, there was a time when I felt that people had some bias against me, maybe because I was a woman or for any other reason. I went through rigorous training and scrutiny, but I understood that it was all part of the game,” she shared. “But my bosses did not give up on me, they believed in my capability to lead.”

 

With decades of experience in the telco industry, she also shared the importance of showing malasakit to the team, “even if the odds seem to be against you.”

 

“There was a time when I was the only senior leader left, with the responsibility to manage junior colleagues. It dawned on me that it’s my responsibility to rally the team, amid the uncertainties, and bring the team towards our goal,” she shared.

 

Meanwhile, the COVID-19 pandemic became a litmus test for PLDT and Smart Vice President and Head for Consumer Credit and Account Management Di Blanco as an employee and team leader. She shared that they had to proactively make the decision that the company will not cut services at a time the internet became a necessity for Filipinos during the crisis, even before the government made its call.

 

“I take pride that our group thought of our customers first. That was a strong manifestation of our customer centricity,” Blanco shared.

 

Despite the difficulty in collections during the pandemic, her group was also able to implement critical changes such as digital billing, deploy quasi-digital payment options for customers in stores through Paybox, and improve customer loyalty.

 

“That was when I realized that true malasakit is painful. But when you invest in educating our customers, they will adapt to it and support your endeavors,” said Blanco.

 

Asked what leadership meant to them, the two women leaders shared the same point: it’s all about servant-leadership.

 

“You serve the people you are working with. Every day, I still see challenges that test my leadership, but being surrounded by the excellent people in my team, I know we’ll be able to achieve our goals,” said Hu.

 

“Leadership is not about the title nor position. It is about taking care of your people- inspiring and helping them achieve the best version of themselves” said Blanco.

 

“Leaders on the Go” is a monthly activity to bring leaders closer to employees to share stories and engage in conversations that internalize the PLDT and Smart’s culture and core values and how these help the organization get through challenges and achieve milestones to keep the company sustainably competitive.