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  • Philippines Positions Entrepreneurs for the Global Digital Economy Through GENCYS Group and Alibaba Global Initiatives Collaboration

    Philippines Positions Entrepreneurs for the Global Digital Economy Through GENCYS Group and Alibaba Global Initiatives Collaboration

    Gencys Group, Board of Directors – From left to right: Nadine Ann Y. Luceña – Director of Internal Affairs, Aryanne Fatima Claire B. Gengos – Director of Education, GENCYS Group, Charlie P. Gengos – Founder and Chairman of GENCYS Group, Hernani H. Razon – Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of GENCYS Group, Marle Joy C. Razon – Director of Branding, Diana Jane S. Mitchell – Director of Operations and Human Resources

    As digital commerce continues to reshape global markets, a new collaboration between Philippine innovation company GENCYS Group and Alibaba Global Initiatives is opening opportunities for Filipino entrepreneurs to compete on the international stage.

    The partnership introduces E-VOLVE, a leadership and digital transformation initiative designed to help business owners, startups, and SMEs embrace artificial intelligence, cross-border e-commerce, and technology-driven growth.

    Rather than focusing solely on digital adoption, the initiative aims to prepare entrepreneurs to participate in the global digital economy through practical learning, international exposure, and strategic collaboration.

    “Our vision is to ensure that Filipino entrepreneurs are not just adapting to digital transformation but actively shaping the future of commerce,” GENCYS Group said during the launch.

    The program combines executive learning sessions, AI integration, digital marketing strategies, and international business immersion. Selected participants will also travel to China to gain firsthand insights into one of the world’s most advanced digital commerce ecosystems, including visits to leading technology and innovation hubs and Alibaba’s campus.

    The initiative reflects a growing recognition that competitiveness in today’s economy depends on more than technology adoption. It requires leaders who understand data, automation, artificial intelligence, and cross-border business models.

    Small and medium enterprises account for the overwhelming majority of businesses in the Philippines, making digital capability a national economic priority. As global supply chains become increasingly interconnected, programs that strengthen digital entrepreneurship can help local companies expand beyond domestic markets.

    Industry observers note that collaborations between private-sector innovators and global technology ecosystems are becoming increasingly important as businesses seek practical pathways toward AI adoption and international market access.

    Beyond skills development, E-VOLVE also aims to build a stronger network of entrepreneurs, corporate partners, investors, and technology leaders who can collaborate on future innovation initiatives.

    The partnership highlights the Philippines’ growing ambition to become a more active participant in the digital economy of Asia-Pacific, positioning Filipino enterprises to create globally competitive products, services, and business models.

    As artificial intelligence and e-commerce continue to redefine industries worldwide, initiatives such as E-VOLVE demonstrate how international partnerships can help emerging markets accelerate innovation while empowering the next generation of business leaders.

    The GENCYS Group and Alibaba Global Initiatives collaboration represents more than a training program—it signals a long-term investment in developing globally minded entrepreneurs capable of driving sustainable digital growth for the Philippines and beyond.

    For inquiries about the program, visit Gencys Group Official Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/gencysgroup

  • Canon kicks off school season with PIXMA promos and Canon Academy 2026 university tour

    Canon kicks off school season with PIXMA promos and Canon Academy 2026 university tour

    As students prepare for the new academic year, Canon Philippines has launched a back-to-school campaign featuring promotional offers on select PIXMA MegaTank printers alongside the nationwide rollout of its Canon Academy 2026 campus tour.

    The campaign combines discounts and rewards for students and families with a three-month university program that will introduce multimedia, design, and imaging students to Canon’s printers and cameras through hands-on activities.

    To help students manage school requirements such as research papers, presentations, reports, and creative projects, Canon is offering two promotions running from July 1 to September 30, 2026:

    • Free ink bundle
      • Buyers of the PIXMA G4770, PIXMA G3780, or PIXMA G4780 will receive one free set of GI-71s inks worth Php1,365.
    • Canon Delightful App Rewards Points
      • Customers purchasing participating PIXMA printers can receive up to 2,500 rewards points, depending on the model purchased.
      • To qualify, customers must:
        • Download the Canon Delightful App
        • Register their newly purchased printer
      • Each reward point is equivalent to Php1.00, which can be redeemed through participating Giftaway e-gift certificate merchants available in the Canon PH app.

    Participating printer models and corresponding rewards include:

    Printer model Rewards points SRP (Php)
    G1010 1,000 4,495
    G1730 500 5,995
    G2010 1,500 7,495
    G2730 1,500 8,395
    G3010 2,000 7,995
    G3730 500 9,995
    G4770 2,500 13,495
    G3780 500 11,995
    G4780 500 14,595
    G5070 500 13,995
    G6070 500 18,995
    G570 500 14,995
    G670 500 18,595
    PIXMA G2730 Purple (online exclusive) 500 7,895
    PIXMA G2730 Yellow Green (online exclusive) 500 9,495

    Alongside the promotions, Canon is taking its products directly to campuses through Canon Academy 2026, a three-month program that will visit universities and colleges across the country.

    The tour begins on July 8 to 9, 2026, at the Far Eastern University Student Plaza in Manila, where students specializing in multimedia, design, and imaging will be introduced to Canon’s MegaTank and PIXMA printer lineup as well as Canon cameras through immersive demonstrations and learning sessions.

    Canon said the initiative is intended to give students access to tools that support both classroom requirements and creative work throughout the school year.

    For more information on Canon’s latest promotions and imaging solutions, visit the Canon Philippines website or download the Canon PH Delightful app.

  • Zyxel Networks expands outdoor wireless lineup with ruggedized APs built for long-range connectivity

    Zyxel Networks expands outdoor wireless lineup with ruggedized APs built for long-range connectivity

    Zyxel Networks has expanded its outdoor wireless portfolio with two new ruggedized access point solutions aimed at helping managed service providers (MSPs) address growing demand for reliable connectivity in outdoor and industrial environments.

    The new additions, the NWA55AX PRO and NWA55AX PTP, are designed to extend wireless coverage in locations where traditional indoor networks cannot easily reach. Both devices integrate with the company’s Nebula cloud management platform, allowing MSPs to deploy, monitor, and optimize customer networks remotely.

    The company said the products are intended for a range of environments, including:

    • Industrial and semi-industrial sites
    • Small businesses
    • Homes requiring extended wireless coverage
    • Hospitality venues such as cafes, bars, and restaurants
    • Education campuses
    • Stadiums and event venues
    • Holiday resorts
    • Public transportation hubs, including railway stations and airports

    “In today’s fully connected world, it’s essential for businesses to provide reliable wireless connectivity outdoors as well as inside buildings,” said Mr. Gary Chen, SEA regional head at Zyxel Networks. “With these additions to our range, MSPs can target potentially fertile and fast-growing areas of the market, offering enterprise-class performance at SMB prices and easy manageability through Nebula.”

    The NWA55AX PRO delivers WiFi 6 connectivity with speeds of up to AX3000 and features an IP55 weather-resistant rating. Zyxel Networks said the access point is built for dependable outdoor operation in smaller industrial sites, campuses, businesses, and residential settings where wider wireless coverage is needed.

    Meanwhile, the NWA55AX PTP is a paired point-to-point solution capable of establishing a direct wireless link over distances of up to 5 kilometers without additional configuration. According to the company, the product is designed for organizations that require stable, high-speed external connections across large outdoor spaces.

    Both products are managed through Zyxel Networks’ Nebula cloud platform, enabling MSPs to remotely deploy devices, monitor network performance, and optimize WiFi services for customers.

    Headquartered in Taiwan, Zyxel Networks provides AI-powered cloud networking solutions for small and medium-sized businesses and enterprise edge deployments. The company says it serves more than 1 million businesses across 150 markets and develops its LAN switching, WLAN, and security technologies through its in-house research and development teams.

  • Belle Mariano, Ayn Bernos, and Janina Vela Join Push to Protect and Educate At-Risk Filipino Girls

    Belle Mariano, Ayn Bernos, and Janina Vela Join Push to Protect and Educate At-Risk Filipino Girls

    World Vision Philippines is launching a targeted campaign to secure 1,000 child sponsorships for young girls by October 11, coinciding with the International Day of the Girl. Dubbed “Girls Can,” the initiative directly addresses severe socio-economic threats facing adolescent girls in the country, including high rates of teenage pregnancy and rising numbers of out-of-school youth.

    The campaign will officially launch in August 2026, building on World Vision’s year-round global and local child sponsorship operations.

    The Cost of Changing a Trajectory

    The initiative aims to disrupt systemic cycles that interrupt education and limit the future opportunities of young women. According to global data cited by the organization, one in three women and girls experience violence in their lifetime, a girl is forced into early marriage every three seconds, and global adolescent birth rates continue to rise.

    In the Philippines, these issues manifest as acute local crises, disproportionately driving young girls out of the education system.

    Under the “Girls Can” program, individual sponsors can back a child with a financial commitment of:

    • Php 30 per day

    • Php 900 per month

    These funds directly provide sponsored children with access to essential healthcare, continuous education, and emergency humanitarian support. The framework also allows sponsors to correspond with their sponsored child through letters, with options for future in-person meetings.

    High-Profile Ambassadors Join the Movement

    Several prominent high-profile figures and digital creators have backed the initiative, utilizing their platforms to advocate for the campaign’s sponsorship goals.

    Kapamilya Gen Z actress Belle Mariano highlighted the correlation between early institutional support and long-term societal impact.

    “I’ve been blessed with opportunities that allowed me to grow, dream, and believe in myself. Because of that, I want to see a better world for girls—one where every girl is given the chance to learn, lead, and reach her full potential. When girls are supported, they can shape a future filled with hope, courage, and change.”

    Content creator Ayn Bernos focused on representation and reinforcing self-worth amid societal pressures regarding identity and body image.

    “I’ve faced challenges because of my skin color and my weight, but those things never defined who I am. What truly shaped me was being supported by the right people—those who believed in me even when I doubted myself. Now, I want to be that kind of support for the younger generation, reminding girls that they are enough and that their differences are their strength.”

    Digital influencer Janina Vela emphasized the necessity of teaching young women to navigate online hostility and assert their agency.

    “Using my platform means speaking up, even when it’s uncomfortable and even when not everyone agrees with me. Despite the bashers and the noise online, I choose to stand by my beliefs and continue using my voice. I hope to encourage girls to speak their truth, stand their ground, and know that their voices matter.”

    Call to Action

    World Vision leadership underscores that collective public intervention is critical to achieving the 1,000-sponsorship threshold before the October deadline.

    World Vision Philippines National Director Dr. Herbert Q. Carpio stated:

    “We’re grateful to have role models like Belle, Ayn, and Janina who have consistently shown their support for young girls. We hope many more can join them in the Girls Can movement, because girls and women are truly unstoppable when they are seen and heard.”

    Prospective sponsors can sign up and review program details via the official portal at https://www.worldvision.org.ph/sponsor-child/.

  • NBA Centralizes Grassroots Leagues with New Live Streaming and Competition Management App

    NBA Centralizes Grassroots Leagues with New Live Streaming and Competition Management App

    nba jr wnba

    The National Basketball Association (NBA) has launched a unified digital platform designed to coordinate and scale its grassroots basketball operations across more than 190 countries and territories. The newly released My Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA App serves as a centralized digital ecosystem for international program participants, coaches, referees, parents, and league organizers.

    The free application acts as the primary digital infrastructure for the league’s youth programming across Africa, the Asia-Pacific region, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, India, and Latin America. To accommodate its global user base, the platform includes multi-language support, geo-targeted content distribution, and compatibility across both mobile applications and web browsers.

    The platform centralizes several core administrative and interactive features:

    • Competition Management: Program operators can manage schedules, standings, results, tournament brackets, box scores, play-by-play logs, and multimedia galleries from a single dashboard.

    • Live Streaming: The app provides direct broadcast coverage of active Jr. NBA and Jr. WNBA leagues and tournaments.

    • Registration Hub: Administrative workflows are consolidated through simplified sign-ups, digital waiver processing, and long-term participant tracking.

    • Communication Tools: Built-in messaging channels allow organizers to push direct updates to participants, parents, coaches, and referees.

    • Event Information: A centralized portal provides entry details and scheduling for upcoming Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA events and clinics.

    The digital expansion follows massive global scaling for the league’s youth development division. In 2025, the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA reached more than 41 million youth, parents, referees, and coaches in 193 countries and territories outside the United States. This network is maintained through a combination of affiliated local youth basketball organizations, in-person clinics, competitive leagues, and online events.

    In tandem with the app rollout, the league has deployed an updated Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA curriculum designed to boost player engagement and situational decision-making. The modernized framework transitions to a games-based instruction model, introducing more than 100 new or refreshed activities distributed across 48 structured practice plans that heavily feature small-sided games. The curriculum continues to anchor its technical instruction around four core organizational values: teamwork, respect, determination, and community.

    The My Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA App is available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play. Programmatic details and resources remain accessible via the official website at www.JrNBA.com.

  • Manulife Philippines positions for growth with Edgar Tordesillas appointment

    Manulife Philippines positions for growth with Edgar Tordesillas appointment

    MANILA, Philippines — Manulife Philippines has named financial sector veteran Edgar Tordesillas as its new General Counsel, effective July 1, 2026. Tordesillas, who returns to the firm after 15 years, will join the company’s executive committee to oversee legal risk, regulatory strategy, and corporate governance.

    In his new role, Tordesillas will advise senior leadership on operational matters and evaluate legal risks associated with corporate initiatives. His primary objective is to align executive business decisions with the firm’s legal frameworks and established risk tolerances.

    Tordesillas carries more than 25 years of legal and compliance management experience within the Philippine asset management and life insurance industries. This appointment marks his second tenure at Manulife Philippines, where he previously operated as Vice President of Legal and Compliance from 2007 to 2011.

    Prior to rejoining the company, Tordesillas spent 14 years as General Counsel for another multinational life insurance provider. His responsibilities there included steering corporate governance, managing litigation and contract negotiations, and directing compliance operations.

    “Edgar brings deep legal and compliance expertise, as well as a strong leadership track record that will be critical as we continue to strengthen governance and support the company’s strategic priorities,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines.

    “His extensive experience in the Philippine financial services sector—combined with his sound judgment and understanding of the regulatory landscape—will help us navigate complexity, manage risk effectively, and enable sustainable growth. He will play an important role in ensuring that our business decisions are aligned with our ambition to be the #1 choice for customers in the Philippines.”

    Tordesillas will directly influence the life insurer’s operational execution and risk appetite by embedding structural compliance measures into everyday business decisions.

    “Returning to Manulife Philippines is both meaningful and exciting for me,” said Edgar Tordesillas, General Counsel, Manulife Philippines. “I look forward to working closely with the leadership team and colleagues across the organization to support the company’s continued growth while upholding the highest standards of governance, integrity, and customer commitment. I am committed to helping strengthen the company’s legal and governance framework in a way that supports sound decision-making, prudent risk management, and disciplined execution across the business.”

  • BPI makes InstaPay, PESONet transfers free for over 9.5 million users

    BPI makes InstaPay, PESONet transfers free for over 9.5 million users

    The Bank of the Philippines Islands (BPI) will permanently waive fees for InstaPay and PESONet transfers to other banks and e-wallets beginning July 1, 2026, expanding free digital fund transfers across its online banking channels as part of its 175th anniversary initiatives.

    The move covers transactions made through the BPI app, BPI online banking, VYBE, BanKo, and BizKo. It also aligns with BSP Circular No. 1238, Series of 2026, which encourages BSP-supervised financial institutions to adopt reasonable and fair, market-based pricing for person-to-person electronic fund transfers.

    Before the change, BPI app users paid ₱10 for every InstaPay transfer and ₱50 for each PESONet transaction. Verified VYBE users already enjoyed free transfers to other banks and e-wallets.

    The bank said the permanent fee waiver is expected to benefit more than 9.5 million users enrolled on the BPI app by making digital transactions more affordable and accessible.

    “As we mark our 175th year, BPI remains committed to removing barriers to financial access and making banking more inclusive for all Filipinos. Making interbank transfers free is a meaningful step toward enabling our customers to move their money more freely, while strengthening adoption of secure and convenient digital banking,” said BPI President and CEO TG Limcaoco.

    “We expect this to drive more frequent use of digital transfers as customers no longer have to factor in per-transaction costs. It simplifies everyday payments and makes the BPI app an even more practical tool for managing finances,” he added.

    The waived transfer fees will apply to:

    • All existing BPI mobile app users, including active and inactive customers
    • BPI Preferred, BPI Gold, and BPI Private Wealth clients
    • Verified VYBE users, who already receive free interbank fund transfers under their existing benefits

    The offer includes:

    • Zero fees for transfers to other banks and e-wallets
    • InstaPay for real-time transfers
    • PESONet for batch processing
    • Transactions made through BPI online banking, the BPI app, BanKo, and BizKo
    • Effectivity beginning July 1, 2026

    Separately, BPI reminded customers to update the latest version of its mobile app by June 25. The update includes minor fixes and performance improvements aimed at improving the user experience.

    The updated app is available through the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei AppGallery.

    BPI said eliminating interbank transfer fees is part of its broader effort to encourage greater use of digital banking for payments, remittances, and fund transfers by lowering transaction costs. The bank added that customers experiencing issues may seek assistance through its official customer support channels.

  • Hundreds of Maxim driver-partners back Brigada Eskwela, donate school supplies before classes

    Hundreds of Maxim driver-partners back Brigada Eskwela, donate school supplies before classes

    As schools prepare to welcome students for School Year 2026-2027, hundreds of Maxim driver-partners joined volunteer efforts in Batangas City, Mabalacat City, and Zamboanga City, helping improve school facilities and providing students with essential learning materials ahead of the opening of classes.

    The initiatives formed part of Brigada Eskwela activities and school supply distribution programs, with volunteers contributing labor, cleaning materials, and educational supplies to support schools in their preparations for the new school year.

    In Mabalacat City, Pampanga, Maxim took part in Brigada Eskwela at Mabiga Elementary School on June 3, 2026.

    Key highlights included:

    • 190 Maxim riders volunteered during the activity.
    • Volunteers assisted in school maintenance and campus improvement projects to prepare classrooms and facilities for the opening of classes.

    Meanwhile, 21 Maxim riders participated in Brigada Eskwela activities at Alangilan Central Elementary School and Sampaga Elementary School in Batangas City, also on June 3.

    The volunteers:

    • Helped with school maintenance activities.
    • Donated school supplies and cleaning materials to support students and teachers as they prepared for the incoming school year.

    In Zamboanga City, Maxim driver-partners distributed school supplies to students of Lanzones Elementary School.

    The distribution program was attended by school officials, teachers, students, and Maxim driver-partners. Students received essential classroom materials, including:

    • Notebooks
    • Pencils
    • Rulers

    The initiative aimed to help learners begin the school year with basic educational supplies while supporting the school’s preparations for the opening of classes.

    According to Maxim, the Brigada Eskwela participation and school supply distribution activities are part of its broader community initiatives. The company also conducts disaster relief operations, clean-up drives, and outreach programs focused on education, public health, environmental care, and social responsibility in the communities where it operates.

  • LG showcases hospitality technology to 110 hotel leaders in Subic

    LG showcases hospitality technology to 110 hotel leaders in Subic

    SUBIC BAY, Philippines – LG Electronics Philippines gathered hotel executives and industry leaders in Subic for a two day event showcasing hospitality technologies aimed at improving guest experiences, business functions, and hotel operations.

    Held from April 23 to 24 at Lighthouse Hotel Subic in the Moonbay Marina Complex, the event drew 110 participants, including CIOs, CFOs, senior executives, and key decision makers from hotels across Subic. The gathering was organized in partnership with WSI, the Subic Freeport Chamber of Commerce, and the Subic Hotel Association.

    The event gave hospitality leaders a closer look at LG’s latest display technologies designed for different hotel environments.

    Among the solutions presented were:

    • Hospitality TVs for guest rooms
    • LED walls for indoor and outdoor applications
    • Interactive Digital Boards, including the TR3DQ model, for meetings and small functions

    The technologies are intended to support hotel operations ranging from guest room entertainment to business events and collaborative spaces.

    “The hospitality industry continues to evolve rapidly, and technology plays an important role in helping hotels create better guest experiences and more efficient spaces. Through this event, LG Electronics Philippines was able to connect directly with hotel leaders in Subic and showcase display solutions designed to support the changing needs of the hospitality sector,” said Mr. Edgardo Kasunuran Jr., Media Solutions ID & IT, Head of Sales, LG Electronics Philippines.

    Attendees were able to experience the products firsthand while learning about their features, practical applications, and potential use cases in hotel operations.

    LG said the collaboration with WSI, its ID distributor, along with the Subic Freeport Chamber of Commerce and the Subic Hotel Association, helped bring together key stakeholders from the local hospitality industry.

    “We are pleased to collaborate with LG Electronics Philippines, the Subic Freeport Chamber of Commerce, and the Subic Hotel Association in bringing these hospitality technology solutions closer to hotel leaders in Subic. Through this event, we were able to give decision makers a firsthand look at how LG’s Hospitality TVs, LED walls, and Interactive Digital Boards can support more engaging guest experiences, more flexible event spaces, and more efficient hotel operations,” said Ms. Jamie Austria, Product Category Head for LG Philippines, Wordtext Systems Inc.

    The Subic Freeport Chamber of Commerce said the event also highlighted how technology can help hotels strengthen their services and competitiveness.

    “This event provided a valuable platform for Subic’s hospitality community to explore technology solutions that can help elevate hotel services, business functions, and guest experiences. We welcome collaborations like this that connect our local industry with innovations that support growth, competitiveness, and better service for visitors and guests in Subic,” said Ms. Donna May Tamayo, Executive Director of the Subic Freeport Chamber of Commerce.

    LG said display technologies now play a broader role in the hospitality industry by supporting communication, branding, guest engagement, meetings, and events beyond traditional in room entertainment.

    Through the Subic event, the company said it continues to strengthen its engagement with hotel operators while expanding awareness of its hospitality technology solutions among business communities in Luzon.

  • FedEx Delivers Hygiene Kits to 2,400 Rural Students to Combat School Absenteeism

    FedEx Delivers Hygiene Kits to 2,400 Rural Students to Combat School Absenteeism

    MANILA, Philippines — More than 2,000 Filipino grade school students from remote farming and fishing communities are receiving essential health supplies ahead of the upcoming school year to curb preventable illnesses and keep children in the classroom.

    Federal Express Corporation (FedEx) teamed up with the international non-profit Feed the Children to distribute hygiene kits to 2,400 students across 11 schools in Bohol and Zamboanga del Norte. The joint initiative targets critical health barriers that frequently force young students to miss school.

    Directing Aid to Vulnerable Communities

    The outreach addresses widespread health vulnerabilities in rural provinces, where access to basic hygiene products can be limited. A team of 14 FedEx employees volunteered to assemble and distribute the packages, which contain:

    • Soap and shampoo
    • Face towels
    • Toothbrushes and toothpaste

    Beyond distributing immediate physical supplies, the program is running school-based orientation sessions to instill daily health habits. According to medical data highlighted by the organizations, simple interventions yield substantial health returns. For instance, washing hands regularly with soap reduces diarrheal diseases by up to 30% and acute respiratory infections by up to 20%.

    Addressing a Leading Cause of Absenteeism

    The inclusion of oral care items targets a major national health crisis. The Philippine Dental Association reports that 72% of Filipinos suffer from tooth decay, with school-aged children representing the most severely affected demographic. This widespread dental issue stands as a leading driver of student absenteeism in the country.

    “At FedEx, we believe that access to basic hygiene is fundamental to a child’s ability to learn and thrive. Through this initiative, we are not only delivering essential supplies but also fostering healthier routines and stronger foundations for learning,” said Maribeth Espinosa, managing director, FedEx Philippines. “By providing hygiene kits and health education, we aim to create a lasting impact and empower Filipino children to stay in school and reach their full potential.”

    The distribution marks the continuation of a long-term regional charity effort. Operated under FedEx Cares, the company’s global community engagement program, the ongoing collaboration with Feed the Children has supplied resources to more than 5,000 children across the Philippines since 2023.