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  • TIEZA Unveils Enhanced Online Travel Tax Services to Improve Traveler Experience

    TIEZA Unveils Enhanced Online Travel Tax Services to Improve Traveler Experience

    The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) expresses its appreciation to the millions of Filipino outbound travelers whose travel tax contributions continue to drive infrastructure development, community upliftment, and sustainable growth across the country’s tourism destinations.

    In a media briefing held on November 18, TIEZA Chief Operating Officer Mark T. Lapid underscored the vital role of travel tax revenues in advancing the nation’s tourism and economic agenda.

    “Each time a Filipino traveler pays the travel tax, they directly contribute to nation-building,” said Lapid. “These contributions fund the development of access roads, ports, water systems, and facilities that make destinations more connected, resilient, and sustainable for the benefit of both visitors and local communities.”

    “When we say ‘Building Tourism Together,’ we mean a shared responsibility between government, private partners, and the Filipino traveler,” Lapid added. “Every flight, every trip, and every travel tax payment helps us build a stronger, more inclusive, and globally competitive tourism economy.”

    Enhanced Travel Tax Services for Greater Efficiency and Convenience

    In line with the government’s Ease of Doing Business (EODB) initiatives, TIEZA continues to modernize the Online Travel Tax Services System (OTTSS) to provide travelers with faster, simpler, and more transparent services.

    Aside from online travel tax payments, the enhanced OTTSS now supports online applications for Travel Tax Exemption Certificate and Reduced Travel Tax, streamlining processes for at least 800,000 outbound travelers each year who qualify for these privileges, including Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), infants and minors, government delegates, and other eligible groups.

    This platform benefits over 4.6 million outbound travelers annually, enabling them to settle their travel tax obligations and file applications anytime, anywhere, without the need to queue at airport counters.

    “Our priority is to make travel tax transactions as effortless as possible,” Lapid noted. “By embracing innovation and digital transformation, we are not only modernizing government systems  — we are enhancing the overall travel experience. Every minute saved online translates to more meaningful time spent with family, work, and new opportunities abroad.”

    Earlier this year, TIEZA also partnered with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to integrate the OTTSS Full Travel Tax payment service with the eGov Super App and eTravel Systems.

    This integration allows travelers to access key components of their pre-travel requirements under a unified digital ecosystem.

    Travelers can now pay their full travel tax directly through the eGov PH Super App, with personal information automatically retrieved from their eTravel profiles, resulting in a faster, more secure, and seamless payment experience.

    Building Tourism Together Through Travel Tax

    Pursuant to the Section 73 of Republic Act No. 9593, fifty percent (50%) of travel tax proceeds go to TIEZA, funding its operations and the development of tourism infrastructure projects across the country, ranging from access roads and water systems to community-based facilities that enhance visitor experience and empower local livelihoods. 

    The remaining 40% is allocated to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for tourism-related scholarships and education programs, while 10%** supports the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in advancing cultural heritage conservation and arts development.

    “Each peso you contribute travels farther than you think,” Lapid emphasized. “It becomes a road that connects communities, clean water that sustains destinations, or a scholarship that nurtures the next generation of tourism professionals. Every contribution builds a tourism industry that every Filipino can take pride in.”

    Through continuous innovation, collaboration, and transparency, TIEZA reaffirms its commitment to its advocacy of Building Tourism Together  — a shared national effort that celebrates the contributions of travelers, communities, and partners in strengthening Philippine tourism.

    “Government service should be as seamless and dependable as booking your next flight,” Lapid concluded. “Through your continued support, we can keep building a tourism industry that connects, empowers, and inspires  — one journey at a time.”

    For more information, visit https://tieza.gov.ph or follow @TIEZAOfficial on Facebook and @tiezagovph on Instagram and X for updates on TIEZA’s services and digital initiatives.

     

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  • TIEZA Expands Tourist Rest Areas Nationwide to Strengthen Philippine Tourism Infrastructure

    TIEZA Expands Tourist Rest Areas Nationwide to Strengthen Philippine Tourism Infrastructure

    The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) is set to build 40 additional Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs) across key destinations in the Philippines, reinforcing the country’s commitment to improving travel convenience, enhancing visitor experience, and supporting local economic growth through tourism.

    According to TIEZA Chief Operating Officer Mark T. Lapid, the expansion of TRAs forms part of the agency’s strategic infrastructure program designed, together with the Department of Tourism (DOT), to make travel across the Philippines more accessible, comfortable, and sustainable for both local and international visitors.

    “Tourist Rest Areas serve as essential stopovers for travelers  — offering not only clean facilities and rest areas but also a reliable source of local tourism information and a space to showcase regional products,” Lapid said. “Each TRA reflects our goal to make travel in the Philippines more connected, more comfortable, and more community-centered.”

    More Tourist Rest Areas, More Connected Destinations

    Of the 40 new TRAs in the pipeline, two  — located in Kabankalan, Negros Occidental and Lingayen, Pangasinan  — have already been completed and are set for turnover to their respective local government units (LGUs).

    Meanwhile, 12 TRAs are already operational and currently managed by LGUs in the following destinations:

    ● Cebu Province: Medellin, Moalboal, Carcar, and Carmen

    ● Palawan: Roxas and Brooke’s Point

    ● Davao del Norte: Samal Island

    ● Bukidnon: Manolo Fortich

    ● Bohol: Dauis

    ● Ilocos Norte: Pagudpud

    ● Camarines Sur: San Jose

    ● Sultan Kudarat: Tacurong City

    The additional TRAs under construction are located in Iloilo, Benguet, Pangasinan, Negros Occidental, Eastern Samar, Misamis Oriental, Tawi-Tawi, Mountain Province, and Batanes, among other major tourism routes and gateway destinations.

    Each TRA will feature modern, gender-sensitive restrooms, information desks, parking areas, and dedicated spaces for local product exhibits, promoting regional craftsmanship and entrepreneurship.

    A Model for Sustainable Tourism Development

    The TRA Program was recognized as the Infrastructure Project of the Year (Tourism Category) at the 2024 GovMedia Awards in Singapore, underscoring TIEZA’s role as a leading implementer of sustainable tourism infrastructure in Southeast Asia.

    Lapid emphasized that the project is funded through travel tax collections, ensuring that every peso contributed by outbound Filipino travelers is reinvested into the tourism value chain.

    “Every travel tax payment goes a long way,” Lapid added. “It becomes a road, a rest area, or a facility that enhances the visitor experience and creates opportunities for local communities. This is a tangible example of how we are Building Tourism Together  — turning contributions into lasting impact.”

    Empowering Communities Through Tourism

    Beyond infrastructure, the TRAs also serve as economic catalysts for local businesses. By providing curated spaces for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to sell local delicacies, crafts, and souvenirs, each TRA connects travelers directly with community producers  — creating inclusive economic opportunities across provinces.

    TIEZA continues to partner with LGUs, the Department of Tourism (DOT), and local stakeholders to identify priority sites that align with tourism circuits and road networks under the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023–2028.

    “Tourism is a shared responsibility,” Lapid said. “By working with local governments and communities, we ensure that every infrastructure project contributes to inclusive growth, sustainability, and pride of place.”

    Launched in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Tourist Rest Area Program is a nationwide initiative that aims to establish world-class, standardized rest stops in major travel corridors.

    Each TRA provides clean, accessible facilities, tourist information, and retail spaces for local products  — elevating the travel experience and promoting Filipino hospitality at every stop.

    For more information, visit https://tieza.gov.ph and follow @TIEZAOfficial on Facebook, and @tiezagovph on Instagram and X.

  • Manulife Bets Big on Helping People Beat Aging and Financial Stress

    Manulife Bets Big on Helping People Beat Aging and Financial Stress

    Today, Manulife announced the launch of the Longevity Institute, a global platform that will seek to drive action to help people live longer, healthier, and more financially secure lives.

    Backed by a $350 million commitment, the Longevity Institute will work to champion research, innovation, and partnerships that will help people thrive at every age.

    As a global leader in life insurance, asset management, and retirement planning, Manulife is deeply invested in the health and well-being of its customers.

    However, the gap between how long people live (lifespan) and their quality of life (healthspan) is widening — with many spending up to 20% of their lives in poor health, and nearly 40% facing financial insecurity as they age.

    The Longevity Institute aims to close this gap by reimagining how people live, work, learn, and contribute throughout their lives. 

    “Empowering health, wealth, and longevity is central to Manulife’s bold new ambition. It aligns with our values and our commitment to the communities we operate in, and we are uniquely placed to help individuals and families navigate the growing gap between lifespan and healthspan,” said Phil Witherington, President and CEO of Manulife.

    “For generations now, Manulife has supported customers at every stage of life, and we see a powerful opportunity to scale our expertise and help even more people live longer, healthier, better lives. Through the Longevity Institute, we will partner with organizations that share our purpose, unlock new insights, drive innovation, and create a future where everyone can thrive—at any age.”  

    The Longevity Institute will focus on igniting global research and thought leadership to better understand how people can flourish as they live longer; accelerating innovation and advocacy through initiatives that promote health, wellness, and financial readiness; and investing in community partnershipsthat advance knowledge, promote equity, and drive action around longevity. 

    Steve Finch, President & CEO, Manulife Asia said, “With the demographic shifts in Asia, where one in four people will be over the age of 60 by 2050, it’s crucial to rethink traditional approaches to financial planning, health care, and workforce participation. At Manulife, we are committed to driving innovation that promotes long-term financial resilience, equitable healthy aging, and lifelong fulfillment. By supporting early-stage innovations and providing comprehensive solutions, we aim to help people live better for longer and secure their financial futures.” 

    Initiatives 

    Manulife has a long history of driving impact through programs, products, services, and community investments dating back to 1888, when Manulife gifted an ambulance to the City of Toronto—its first act of public service to help people live longer, healthier lives. 

    To mark the launch of the Institute and build on our long history of impact, Manulife is pleased to share new and ongoing initiatives that reflect our commitment to advancing longevity through meaningful action: 

    ● Partnering with the National Institute of Ageing: Manulife is supporting the National Institute on Ageing’s annual Ageing in Canada Survey, conducted in partnership with Toronto Metropolitan University. This important research explores the lived experiences of Canadians aged 50+ to inform policies that promote healthy aging. 

    ● Partnering with the Milken Institute: Manulife has supported the Milken Institute to advance thought leadership and research on some of the most critical issues shaping longevity and the future of health. Feeding Change‘s work and recent policy brief highlight opportunities for strengthening resilient fruit and vegetable production and integrating food into health interventions. The Future of Aginginitiative and new report, Longevity Ready: A Systems Approach to Aging Well at Home, elevates solutions enabling current and future generations to prepare for longer, healthier lives in their homes and communities.

    ● Longevity Symposiums: The Manulife and John Hancock Longevity Symposiums began in Boston two years ago and are now expanding globally. Recently, Manulife Singaporeand Manulife Philippines hosted inaugural events in Asia, bringing together healthcare experts, industry leaders, financial consultants, customers, and partners—to explore how people can live not just longer, but better. John Hancock will host its third Longer. Healthier. Better. Longevity Symposium in the U.S. in April 2026. 

    The launch of the Longevity Institute quickly follows John Hancock’s inaugural Longevity Preparedness Index — developed with MIT AgeLab, which measures how ready U.S. adults are to thrive as they age. This index will expand to cover Canada in future years and provides insights that support the need for continued longevity advancements and innovations. 

    Outcomes 

    The Longevity Institute will build upon Manulife’s existing efforts to help more than 36 million customers improve their health and wealth. This work aims to drive the following outcomes: 

    ● Health: Help people make everyday choices that support their physical, mental, and emotional well-being—through better nutrition, early detection, movement, and mental health support that fits into real life.

    ● Wealth: Empower people to feel confident about their financial future, with tools, education, and support that help them weather life’s ups and downs and build lasting financial security.

    A comprehensive list of the Institute’s work and partnerships to date can be found in this fact sheet. The Institute will be known as the John Hancock Longevity Institute in the United States. For more information on the Longevity Institute, and to stay up to date on the Institute’s actions, insights, and events through 2030, visit Manulife.com/Longevity.  

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  • Could This Device Finally Free Filipinos From Meralco Bills?

    Could This Device Finally Free Filipinos From Meralco Bills?

    EcoFlow has officially entered the Southeast Asian market with the launch of its PowerOcean Single-phase home solar battery system in the Philippines.

    The product aims to deliver reliable backup power, smart energy management, and cost-efficient energy independence for households amid rising electricity costs and frequent power interruptions.

    The Philippines faces some of the highest power rates in the region and persistent grid instability, particularly in island and rural areas.

    EcoFlow’s entry targets these pain points by offering an integrated solar-plus-storage system that maximizes energy use and minimizes waste, unlike standalone solar panels that leave excess energy untapped.

    Equipped with a high-efficiency inverter that supports up to 12 kW PV input and 95% depth of discharge, PowerOcean uses artificial intelligence to manage when to charge, discharge, or export energy to the grid.

    It automatically adjusts based on time-of-use rates, weather forecasts, and consumption patterns to reduce household electricity bills.

    Each unit starts at 5 kWh and can expand up to 15 kWh, allowing homeowners to scale capacity as needed.

    With 6,000 battery life cycles and a 10-year warranty, PowerOcean promises long-term durability. The system is IP65-rated for safety and can be controlled via an app with voice-command functionality.

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  • Lazada Joins Forces With YouTube in a Game-Changing Deal

    Lazada Joins Forces With YouTube in a Game-Changing Deal

    YouTube today announced updates to the YouTube Shopping affiliate program to further fuel the thriving video commerce in the Philippines, including Lazada onboarding onto the program, as well as new and upcoming features to make Shopping experience more seamless on YouTube.

    Southeast Asia has been shaping the future of shopping with a deeply engaged video-first audience, a profitable digital economy and a vibrant creator community.

    According to a Kantar Survey, majority (85%) of surveyed respondents in Southeast Asia said they use YouTube Shorts in their shopping journey, demonstrating viewers’ trust in creator recommendations and their desire for authentic product reviews.

    Also, it is one of the world’s fastest-growing e-commerce markets, with video commerce having surged to 20% of the region’s e-commerce gross merchandise value in 2024. 

    These, combined with the thriving creator ecosystem in the Philippines has fueled the growth of YouTube Shopping over the past year. Since its launch in Southeast Asia last year, the YouTube Shopping affiliate program has been empowering creators across the region to diversify their revenue and fans to shop product recommendations directly from their favorite creators, without ever leaving the video they are watching.

    There has been a 5X increase in global YouTube Shopping Gross Merchandise Volume (GMV), as well as over 70% increase in shopping related watchtime in the Philippines year-over-year. 

    YouTube Shopping has also proven to be effective in helping viewers find their new favorite product, with 81% of survey respondents who used Google/YouTube in their shopping journey likely to buy the same brand again and 90% saying they are satisfied with their purchase.

    In addition, with YouTube Shopping, brands can also tap into highly engaged audiences through powerful creator-led partnerships.

    To further scale this growing Shopping ecosystem, YouTube is welcoming Lazada to the YouTube Shopping affiliate program for the Philippines. Lazada, one of the leading eCommerce platforms, has been connecting consumers with sellers and brands in the region.

    With the partnership, creators will have access to a wide range of products to tag on their videos, while viewers will be able to get recommendations for more diverse products while watching content from their favorite creators.

    This will also open up more opportunities for brands to drive traffic and sales on Lazada by partnering with creators.

    “We’re excited to empower our Lazada Affiliates with new earning opportunities through YouTube Shopping,” said Carlos Barrera, Chief Executive Officer, Lazada Philippines.

    YouTube continues to invest in features to make the shopping experience more seamless. Based on valuable feedback from the creator community, YouTube introduced Stickers on Shorts, which add an engaging visual pop-up to tagged products for instant shopping, Timestamps, which show shopping tags exactly at the moment products are showcased, and the new YouTube Shopping Chrome Extension which allows creators to easily save products to tag in their videos later.

    In addition, YouTube recently updated the product tagging guidelines for creators, sharing tips and best practices for creators and providing clarity on frequently asked topics. 

    YouTube is also leaning on AI to enhance the shopping experience for creators. YouTube recently introduced Auto Timestamps, which leverages an AI-powered system to automatically display the product tag at the exact moment they’re mentioned in a video, capturing viewer interest when it’s highest and saving creators’ time.

    YouTube will also begin testing the ability to automatically identify and tag all eligible products mentioned in videos later this year.

    “Creators are the heart of YouTube, and we are deeply committed to helping them thrive in the Philippines digital economy. We’ve seen incredible momentum with YouTube Shopping in the region over the past year and are further scaling the program by welcoming Lazada to our affiliate program and introducing new features to YouTube Shopping,” said Prep Palacio, Country Manager, Google Philippines. 

    YouTube remains committed to growing the creator economy and building towards a future where shopping on YouTube is intuitive, engaging, and rewarding for everyone.

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  • Kaspersky launches new cybersecurity solution for private Linux users in PH

    Kaspersky launches new cybersecurity solution for private Linux users in PH

    Global cybersecurity company Kaspersky has officially launched its consumer cybersecurity solution for Linux users in the Philippines, bringing its award-winning protection to a broader range of operating systems.

    The solution is designed to safeguard personal and payment data, detect and remove malware, and protect against phishing, scams, and emerging digital threats.

    Although Linux has long been regarded as one of the most secure operating systems, Kaspersky data shows that cybercriminals are increasingly exploiting Linux vulnerabilities.

    During the first quarter of 2024 alone, attacks using exploits against Linux users surged by nearly 130 percent compared to the same period the previous year, driven by the system’s growing popularity among developers, businesses, and crypto users.

    Latest Kaspersky Security Network (KSN) data showed that 20 percent of users in the Philippines encountered Internet-borne threats between July and September 2025, while 19.3 percent faced local infections via removable media and offline channels.

    These figures place the country among the most targeted worldwide, highlighting persistent risks from financial scams, phishing pages, and malware disguised as legitimate downloads.

    Kaspersky for Linux provides comprehensive digital life protection based on leading Kaspersky technologies that successfully protect both users and businesses around the world. Among the solution’s key features are:

    • Monitoring of systems, devices, and individual files to detect and remove malware.
    • Scanning for threats on removable media, such as USB and hard drives, when they are connected to a computer.
    • Malware detection by continuous monitoring of device’s performance to ensure proactive protection. 
    • Checking visited websites and downloaded files for malicious code.
    • Notification about any attempt to click on a phishing link.
    • Support of key Linux distributions such as Ubuntu, ALT Linux, Uncom and RedOS.

    “There is a belief that there are practically no cyber threats for Linux, but that’s not true. Our expertise and many years of experience in ensuring the security of devices running on this operating system in a corporate environment have formed the basis for a new solution for private users — Kaspersky for Linux,” said Anton Ivanov, Chief Technology Officer at Kaspersky. 

    “Its appearance is a logical extension of the development of Kaspersky’s B2C portfolio. The solution helps to counter malware, online fraud and ensures the complete safety of our customers’ digital lives,” he added. 

    Kaspersky’s consumer products have long been recognized by independent international testing labs. The company was named Product of the Year by AV-Comparatives in 2023 and earned theTop-Rated Product award in 2024.

    These exceptional results reaffirm Kaspersky’s dedication to providing top-tier cybersecurity across all platforms. 

    Kaspersky for Linux is available in three subscription plans: Kaspersky Standard, Kaspersky Plus and Kaspersky Premium.

    Users can get acquainted with the functionality of Kaspersky for Linux for free in a trial version for 30 days. More information about the solution and system requirements is available on the website.

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  • Signify Launches EcoLink Professional Lighting at PHILCONSTRUCT 2025

    Signify Launches EcoLink Professional Lighting at PHILCONSTRUCT 2025

    Reliable, Affordable, and Built for the Industry

    Signify, the world leader in lighting, officially introduced its latest in lighting solutions, the EcoLink Professional Lighting, at the PHILCONSTRUCT 2025 held at the SMX Convention Center.

    Poised to deliver reliable and affordably priced luminaires, the EcoLink Professional Lighting is the Ilaw na Pangmalakasanthat directly addresses the key challenges faced by the construction and industrial sectors.

    Budgeting is crucial for construction projects, and builders often face the challenge of balancing cost and the caliber of the products they use.

    With the new EcoLink Professional Lighting, pocket-friendly lighting solutions are now within reach to illuminate any commercial and professional spaces.

    The product range showcased during the expo includes outdoor solutions, from LED Streetlights, LED Floodlights, and Waterproof Bare Battens, as well as indoor luminaires such as LED Panel Lights, LED Highbays, and various Batten options.

    The cornerstone of the EcoLink professional Lighting is the VoltSafe Technology. This industry-leading feature provides 2.5kV surge protection, offering a robust defense against voltage spikes and surges for a more consistent lighting performance with reduced maintenance costs, providing peace of mind for project owners.

    The EcoLink Professional Lighting also meets stringent safety and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards, and comes with up to a 2-year warranty.

    EcoLink’s design philosophy centers on practical innovation, providing lighting solutions that are simple to install, highly durable in tough Philippine conditions, and cost-effective for commercial applications.

    Whether lighting up streets, warehouses, or compact office spaces, EcoLink Professional Lighting delivers reliable brightness that supports productivity and safety; truly the Ilaw na Pangmalakasan that the market needs.

    “The EcoLink Professional Lighting was designed to address the realities of budgeting construction projects and help contractors maximize their resources,” shared Raghuraman Chandrasekhar, Commercial Leader for Professional, Signify Philippines.

    “We believe that they do not have to compromise, especially with EcoLink as the ingenious solution that will provide reliable lighting that won’t break the bank. This product offering is our way of helping contractors to finish strong and on top of their projects.”

    Apart from the new product line, Signify also unveiled its PRO Resellers Network, demonstrating its strong support for its lighting resellers. This exclusive program offers up to Php 30,000 worth of e-gift vouchers, exclusive reseller discounts, marketing support, and other perks, while Signify VIP Contractors Club members can also enjoy premium rewards such as travel and staycation trips.

    The launch of the EcoLink Professional Lighting reinforces Signify’s dedication to supporting the construction and industrial sectors in the Philippines through sustainable and affordable lighting.

    As the global leader in lighting, Signify continues to align its expertise with local industry needs, ensuring that every project is built on a foundation of light that’s reliable, efficient, and ready for the future.

    For more updates on the latest releases and news on lighting innovation, visit Signify at www.signify.com.

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  • Discovery Capital Finance Corp. and KreditHero, Inc. Forge Nationwide Alliance to Propel SME Growth

    Discovery Capital Finance Corp. and KreditHero, Inc. Forge Nationwide Alliance to Propel SME Growth

    In a major move aimed at accelerating financial inclusion and boosting economic development across the country, Discovery Capital Finance Corporation (DCFC) and innovative fintech leader Kredit Hero, Inc. have officially announced a strategic partnership.

    The alliance is designed to dramatically increase the availability of financing for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and amplify the market visibility of both organizations.

    The collaboration fuses the established lending experience of Discovery Capital with the cutting-edge technological agility and extensive reach of Kredit Hero, Inc., promising a streamlined and more accessible financing journey for entrepreneurs nationwide.

    A Shared Vision for Nation-Building

    This partnership transcends traditional business agreements; it is fundamentally geared towards nation-building. By pooling resources and leveraging distinct strengths, DCFC and Kredit Hero, Inc. aim to empower the SME sector, often referred to as the backbone of the Philippine economy.

    Discovery Capital already maintains a strong physical commitment to this mission with six strategically located offices nationwide to efficiently cater to clients’ diverse needs.

    Diosdado C. Salang Jr., President of Discovery Capital Finance Corp., expressed immense enthusiasm for the future impact of the alliance.

    “We are incredibly excited about this partnership with KreditHero, Inc. This is about more than generating volume for our balance sheets; it is about extending a crucial lifeline to our entrepreneurs and the communities they serve,” said President Salang.

    “Our combined efforts will not only increase our market visibility across the country but, more importantly, will translate directly into palpable assistance for our borrowers, strengthening the community, and supporting the government’s goals in true nation-building.”

    Amplifying Access and Inclusion

    The strategic goals of the partnership are twofold: to significantly increase market visibility and to provide enhanced value to clients. The partnership is expected to have a massive impact, particularly in reaching the unbanked and underbanked clients who are often excluded from traditional financial systems.

    For SMEs, the partnership means faster access to working capital, equipment loans, and other critical financial products needed for expansion and resilience.

    Kredit Hero’s digital platforms will serve as efficient origination and distribution channels, effectively reducing the time it takes for a deserving SME to secure funding from Discovery Capital.

    By working together, both firms expect to:

    • Expand Hybrid Footprint: Leverage DCFC’s six existing physical offices and Kredit Hero’s digital reach to service thousands of underserved SMEs across the country.

    • Target Financial Inclusion: Specifically cater to the unbanked and underbanked, utilizing technology to provide necessary capital where it is most needed.

    • Improve Borrower Experience: Offer quicker loan application processing and decision-making cycles.

    • Fuel Local Economies: Inject necessary capital into local businesses, driving job creation and sustained economic activity.

    This alliance marks a significant step forward in simplifying the often-complex process of obtaining formal financing, ensuring that high growth potential is never hampered by a lack of capital access.

     

     

     

     

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  • BPI expands digital access through Pay&Go partnership

    BPI expands digital access through Pay&Go partnership

    As part of its commitment to make digital banking more accessible to Filipinos, the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), through its digital wallet VYBE, has partnered with Pay&Go to allow users to cash in for free at over 3,000 kiosks nationwide.

    The partnership supports BPI’s broader vision of advancing digital inclusion. Through VYBE, Filipinos—even those without a bank account—can easily sign up and begin their digital financial journey.

    “True digital transformation means extending real value to the underserved. Our partnership with Pay&Go brings us closer to communities. By making it easier — and free — to cash in to VYBE, we’re helping more Filipinos participate in the digital economy,” said Alex Seminiano, Chief Technology Officer, BPI. 

    BPI’s drive for digital inclusion comes at a pivotal moment, as many Filipinos still face barriers to accessing financial services. With challenges such as limited reach, documentary requirements, and trust issues, many remain outside the formal banking system.

    VYBE aims to change that—empowering more Filipinos to take the first step in their digital financial journey and experience the benefits of secure, convenient, and inclusive banking. Even without a BPI bank account, VYBE users can enjoy the following features: 

    • Send and receive money

    • Pay bills and buy load

    • Earn reward points for eligible transactions

    With Pay&Go’s nationwide footprint, even users in remote or underbanked areas can now cash in to their VYBE wallets more conveniently — with no transaction fees.

    Whether you’re a student, gig worker, or small business owner, VYBE offers a fast and easy way to go cashless, backed by the security and trust of one of the country’s most established banks.

    “Digital banking must serve not only the tech-savvy but also the overlooked. As we expand VYBE’s access through Pay&Go, we are building a more inclusive financial landscape where every Filipino has the tools to move forward,” said Eric Faustino, Head of Digital Partnerships and Ecosystems, BPI. 

    For more information about VYBE and the Pay&Go cash-in partnership, visit bpi.com.ph/vybe

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  • Honor unveils AI so advanced it no longer needs humans

    Honor unveils AI so advanced it no longer needs humans

    HONOR Philippines introduced MagicOS 10 at its Global Developer Conference in Shenzhen, marking what the company calls the start of the “AI OS era.”

    The new system is described as the world’s first AI agent operating system capable of self-evolution, signaling a major shift toward intelligent, human-centric device experiences.

    At the center of MagicOS 10 is an upgraded version of YOYO, HONOR’s AI assistant now powered by MagicLM 3.0. The agent can see, remember, and execute tasks across devices, enabling users to handle creative and practical workflows such as photo editing, color grading, food delivery, and ride-hailing with a single command.

    The system’s cross-platform support allows seamless file sharing between HONOR, Android, iOS, and Windows devices.

    The new Zero-Gravity Transparency Design brings a visually dynamic interface without draining battery performance, while enhanced AI Deepfake Detection helps identify fraudulent voices and media.

    HONOR also launched its 1×3×N ecosystem strategy and upgraded HONOR AI Connect platform, designed to lower development barriers and promote open collaboration.

    With more than 200 partners already onboard, HONOR said it aims to build a connected AI ecosystem that empowers devices and developers worldwide.

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