Manulife Philippines Appoints Victor Tanjuakio as New Chief Corporate Solutions and Alternative Distribution Officer

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Victor Tanjuakio

The Philippine arm of leading global financial services provider Manulife announces the appointment of Victor Tanjuakio as the Company’s new Chief Corporate Solutions and Alternative Distribution Officer.

Tanjuakio joins Manulife Philippines with over 35 years of experience working with some of the country’s leading insurance organizations. As Chief Corporate Solutions and Alternative Distribution Officer, Tanjuakio will be responsible for driving high-quality sustainable growth for Manulife Philippines’ corporate solutions business.

“Victor has delivered remarkable results for top financial services companies in the Philippines throughout his career, and we’re delighted to bring his expertise to our senior leadership team. He’s a veteran actuary skilled in financial reporting, underwriting, risk management, marketing, sales, and talent development,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines.

Hora added, “With Victor at the helm of our corporate solutions business, we look forward to providing our group insurance clientele with more innovative financial solutions tailor-fit to their organizations’ and their employees’ unique protection needs.”

Tanjuakio will oversee a team in charge of multi-channel sales, group pricing, group accounts management, group operations, and digital transformation to develop and execute strategies that enhance Manulife Philippines’ customer and distributor experience for stable of corporate clients. Under his leadership, the team will be tasked to further drive business growth through strategic partnerships with other financial institutions as well as traditional and emerging digital players.

For more information about Manulife Philippines, you may visit their website at www.manulife.com.ph
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MMDA Launches Its 10-Year Zero Waste Program for a More Sustainable Metro Manila


The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) concluded its inaugural Road to Zero Waste Summit 2024 on November 5 to 6 at the Bayanihan Center in Pasig City. The event was a significant milestone in the agency’s ongoing efforts to take the initial step toward a transformative 10-year zero waste program for Metro Manila, protecting the environment, the existing landfills, and the overall well-being of its stakeholders.

One of the highlights of the summit was the Pledge of Commitment, where MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando S. Artes together with MMDA General Manager Procopio G. Lipana, Vice Chairman of the National Solid Waste Management Commission Commissioner Crispian Lao, and LLDA Acting General Manager Atty. Senando A. Santiago signed the pledge, symbolizing their shared dedication to achieving a zero waste Metro Manila.


Notable attendees including City of Malabon Mayor Hon. Jeannie L. Sandoval, DENR Undersecretary for Policy, Planning, and International Affairs Atty. Jonas R. Leones, and DILG Assistant Secretary for Local Government Atty. Jessi Howard S. Lanete, were also present as witnesses to a total of 25 waste recyclers who pledged their commitment in supporting the MMDA’s Road to Zero Waste 10-Year Program through integrating strategies, systems, resources, and technologies—making the shift to a circular economy possible through a whole-of-nation approach.

According to MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando S. Artes, “The program covers all types of waste that will employ sustainable, practical, and preferable local solutions and methods. This marks the beginning of a dynamic collaboration between the government and private sector intended to bridge the gap in promoting environmental sustainability through the ecological use of solid waste as a resource. We are grateful to our partners, recyclers who put up these exhibits and who tirelessly explore ways and innovations to make solid waste usable and not something to be discarded. MMDA is with you in pursuing such initiatives.”

A Platform for Collaboration and Innovation

The summit featured 16 panel discussions, 5 breakout sessions, and 30 exhibit booths, all focusing on raising the level of public awareness and participation on adopting SWM best practices in communities – such as food waste composting methods and technologies, recycling of PET bottles and other plastics, and interventions through resource recovery facilities that establish a systemic, comprehensive, and ecological approach to waste management.

Attendees also explored ways to integrate circular economy principles into the Metro Manila waste management landscape. Discussions ranged from promoting public-private partnerships to implementing advanced recycling technologies. The summit also emphasized the importance of community engagement, with IEC campaigns urging citizens to adopt sustainable waste practices starting with the most important component: segregation.

Undersecretary Procopio G. Lipana, General Manager of MMDA, was adamant about the initiative’s objectives, encouraging all stakeholders to come together, saying “Let us now leave the linear economy principle, as far as waste management is concerned. We have to close the loop. We have to practice circular economy.”

Moving Forward Toward Zero Waste

By implementing a holistic approach that encompasses waste reduction, recycling, and resource recovery, the MMDA aims to divert waste from landfills and create a cleaner, healthier future for Metro Manila.

Intensive public awareness campaigns will be launched to educate the communities and the general public about the importance of waste reduction and proper waste disposal. MMDA will expand and improve recycling programs by bridging the gap between and among communities, government agencies, and private recycling companies and organizations. Meanwhile, the Authority will continuously explore opportunities to develop waste-to-energy facilities to convert waste into clean energy, and promote utilization of technologies to divert compostable and recyclable wastes. With these strategies under the road-to-zero waste program, community empowerment and public-private partnerships will be further strengthened to implement sustainable localized waste management solutions. The MMDA is looking to pilot activities through initial collaborations in selected barangays, city markets, and malls with custom-made zero waste management guide maps to be implemented by their Solid Waste Management Office.

The MMDA invites all stakeholders, including residents, businesses, and government agencies, to participate in this transformative initiative. For more information about the MMDA Road to Zero Waste Program, visit the MMDA’s official website or follow the Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP) Facebook page.
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Wadhwani Foundation enhances school-to-work journey in PH with AI and $1M annual grant funding per organization

Saturday, December 7, 2024

Dr. Ajay Kela

Wadhwani Foundation, a private philanthropic institution, offers a 24/7 mobile-first AI-powered skilling platform called Wadhwani GenieAI that includes multiple AI Co-Pilots to bridge critical gaps between education and employment in the Philippines. The platform provides free career counseling tools and teacher training. The Foundation also offers grants of up to $1 million annually to organizations, supporting sustainable job creation and workforce upskilling.

At the Wadhwani Foundation Welcome Reception held at Yuchengco Museum, Makati City, President & CEO Dr. Ajay Kela shared that their free AI-powered platform equips Filipino learners with in-demand job skills and trains educators in AI-driven career counseling.

A survey recently conducted by the Foundation revealed that only 10% of K-12 graduates immediately enter the job market. While 83% pursue university education, only 25% of these university enrollees graduate from higher education institutions. The survey further showed that the remaining 75% who leave university without completing their degrees eventually join the workforce. Meanwhile, 1.5% of the graduates venture into entrepreneurship, while 5.5% fall into the category of “Not in Education, Employment, or Training.” These factors contribute to job instability and low wages.

“Our free AI-powered platform provides access to in-demand job skills that address the gaps in the school-to-work journey of K-12 students in the Philippines,” said Dr. Ajay Kela, President & CEO of Wadhwani Foundation. “We are excited to collaborate in the Philippines to leverage AI-driven solutions that empower students, improve public services, and generate jobs.”

The Foundation currently collaborates with over 60 partners across the Philippines, reaching 22,000 students through AI Co-Pilots. It helps students build in-demand job skills and make informed career choices, while also providing training for educators to deliver AI-driven career counseling.

Boosting Job Creation in PH

To boost job creation in the Philippines, the Wadhwani Foundation, through its grant-making arm, Wadhwani Charitable Foundation (WCF), also offers grants up to $1 million annually to high-impact organizations.

Wadhwani Foundation announced that they are providing grants of up to $1 million annually to organizations to drive job creation in PH. (From left: Dr. Ajay Kela, President & CEO of Wadhwani Foundation; and Angela Chen-Delantar, Vice President for Skilling of Wadhwani Foundation.)

"We are looking for non-profit organizations, enterprises, and academic institutions that share our vision to boost job creation for the 21st-century workforce," said Angela Chen-Delantar, Vice President for Skilling of Wadhwani Foundation. "Our funding will help them expand impact, enabling us to reach 1 million lives by 2030 and providing more Filipinos with job opportunities for a better future."

WCF seeks organizations in the country focused on job fulfillment or creation, with a proven track record of scaling impact. Ideal partners operate within a $1-5 million budget, demonstrating strong leadership in their sector.

Aside from the annual funding, WCF provides comprehensive support to partner organizations including access to the GenieAI platform for job creation, skilling, and placement, and opportunities to collaborate with the Foundation's global network, leveraging expertise in program management and impact measurement.

The funding initiative is also offered in other emerging economies with large and growing youth populations such as Mexico, Brazil, and Indonesia.

The Wadhwani Foundation, a non-profit tech organization founded in 2001 by Silicon Valley entrepreneur Dr. Romesh Wadhwani, is dedicated to accelerating job growth and improving lives across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Organizations can get  more information about the Wadhwani GenieAI at web.opportunity.wfglobal.org and apply for the grant via the Foundation’s website at www.wadhwanifoundation.org.
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Eastern Communications Partners with AMS-IX, HGC Global Communications, and STT GDC Philippines to Strengthen PH’s Global Connectivity


Eastern Communications is the first Philippine telecom provider to partner with AMS-IX, one of the world’s largest peering hubs, along with global companies HGC and STT GDC Philippines. The partnership aims to provide faster and more secure links to international data networks, empowering Philippine enterprises with improved connectivity and expanded access to global Internet Protocol (IP) traffic.

With a shared vision of enhancing global connectivity for Philippine businesses, telecommunications and ICT company Eastern Communications, Amsterdam Internet Exchange (AMS-IX), HGC Global Communications, and ST Telemedia Global Data Centres Philippines (STT GDC Philippines) held an official launch event and contract signing ceremony on December 2, 2024, at New World Hotel Makati. 


[From L to R:] Eastern Communications Co-Coordinators Jaeson Evangelista and Atty. Aileen Regio, HGC Philippines President Michael De Castro, and AMS-IX International Partnership Director Onno Bos.






















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AF Payments and PCG Launch beep™-Enabled ID Cards to Modernize Public Service

Friday, December 6, 2024

AF Payments Inc., the leader in contactless payment technology in the Philippines, has partnered with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to launch dynamic beep™-enabled ID cards. This innovative collaboration marks a significant milestone in modernizing public service through digital transformation.

Revolutionizing Identification and Payment


The newly introduced beep™-enabled ID card serves as both an official ID and a cashless payment solution. It integrates seamlessly with the beep™ ecosystem, which is widely used across public transport systems such as LRT1, LRT2, MRT3, and P2P buses, as well as retail outlets like Lawson and Uncle John’s convenience stores.

Speaking at the launch event held at the PCG National Headquarters in Manila, AF Payments Inc. President & CEO Jonathan Juan “JJ” Moreno emphasized the transformative potential of this innovation:

“The beep™-enabled ID cards will not only enhance the professional experience of PCG personnel but also make everyday transactions more seamless and rewarding. This partnership exemplifies how technology can elevate public service and drive modernization.”

Supporting PCG’s Digital Transformation


Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista lauded the initiative as a step toward the government’s broader modernization goals. “This project signals a forward-looking vision, integrating technology into the daily lives of those who protect our nation. The Philippine Coast Guard is setting an example of how institutions can innovate to improve efficiency and convenience for their personnel.”

PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil L. Gavan echoed this sentiment, noting how the beep™-enabled ID cards bring the organization closer to full digital visibility. He said, “This development is part of the PCG’s ongoing efforts to modernize and embrace technological advancements. It’s a testament to our commitment to innovation and service excellence.”

Key Features of beep™-Enabled ID Cards

The beep™-enabled ID cards offer PCG personnel:

Cashless Convenience: Seamless payment options across public transportation and partner retail stores.
Exclusive Rewards: Access to beep™ promotions, freebies, and rewards points.
Efficiency in Transactions: Streamlined processes for both professional and personal use.
Expanding the Scope of beep™ Technology

This milestone serves as a call to action for other government agencies to adopt beep™ technology. By leveraging innovations like the beep™-enabled ID cards, institutions can improve operational efficiency, enhance convenience for employees, and align with the national digital transformation agenda.

Partner with AF Payments Inc.

AF Payments Inc. remains dedicated to promoting innovation and invites businesses and government agencies to collaborate on similar transformative projects. Through partnerships, the company aims to push the boundaries of digital transformation in the Philippines.

To learn more or explore partnership opportunities, visit beep.com.ph/beep-business or contact the Service Desk at:

(02) 87379600 (Landline)
09175121319 (Globe Line)
09985819675 (Smart Line)
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FWD Life Insurance Philippines hailed Tech Innovator of the Year at DMAP Boomerang Awards

Monday, December 2, 2024


FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines), one of the fastest-growing insurance companies in the country, bagged four prestigious awards at the 2024 Boomerang Awards, helmed by the Digital Marketing Association of the Philippines’ (DMAP).

These awards celebrate FWD’s innovation for The One for gamers, a first-in-the-market and fully customizable life insurance bespoke for the gaming community. FWD won Tech Innovation of the Year along with two category-specific wins: a Silver Boomerang in Gaming and a Bronze Boomerang in Commerce.

The One for gamers was launched during the 12th season of the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League Philippines, and highlighted the value of insurance to a widely underprotected gaming community.

Starting at PhP330 for a year of coverage, The One for gamers can provide protection in just minutes at the FWD Online Shop, with no medical exams required. Gamers can also add critical illness benefit, accidental death coverage, or both. The policy covers most gamer-related health illnesses including loss of sight, hypertension, and motor neuron disease. Policyholders can enhance their gaming experience with added protection through exclusive Vision Express vouchers, included as the current exclusive benefit.

For winning these major awards, FWD was named “Tech Innovator of the Year – Advertiser,” highlighting the insurance brand’s commitment to offering innovative products, services, and initiatives tailor-fit to the next generation’s needs, concerns, and goals.

“We’re very honored for this recognition from our peers in the industry,” said Roche Vanderberghe, Chief Marketing and Digital Business Officer. “These awards push us to further strengthen our commitment to being a different kind of insurer that helps the next generation build their best future while supporting what they’re passionate about.”

FWD winning at the Boomerang Awards follows the insurance company’s abundant recognitions throughout the year from key industry award shows like the PRSP Anvil Awards, PANAta Awards, and the 4As Philippines Kidlat Awards.

Read more about how FWD is changing the way people feel about insurance at www.fwd.com.ph.
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From gridlock to green light: How can AI transform Philippines’ traffic

Raul III "Cricket" Santiago

Written by Raul III "Cricket" Santiago, Managing Director, Fujitsu Philippines


Manila's traffic congestion is amongst the world's worst, significantly impacting the city's economy and the quality of life for Filipinos. In 2023, it held the unenviable title of the world's most congested metro area according to the TomTom Traffic Index.

The daily struggle is a constant reality, requiring innovative solutions.

Driving change with new technology for road traffic in the Philippines

The Road Safety Action Plan (RSAP) in the Philippines was officially launched in 2017 as part of the government's commitment to improving road safety and addressing the high rates of traffic-related injuries and fatalities. It serves as a framework for the Philippines government to implement a series of strategies aimed at enhancing road safety.

With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), how can this transformative technology play a role in advancing the government’s objectives?

Here are three possible ways how AI can help the Philippines move towards a more efficient, responsive, and safer transportation system:

1. Intelligent traffic surveillance: Seeing beyond the gridlock

Current methods of monitoring traffic rely heavily on manual observation and often miss crucial details.

Using machine learning, vision AI can accurately count and classify vehicles, providing a real-time comprehensive picture of traffic flow. The data-driven insights will enable proactive interventions to prevent accidents and alleviate congestion.

For example, a city like Montreal, once struggled with severe congestion, particularly around its port, drastically improved its traffic flow using Fujitsu's AI-enabled data analysis platform to optimize the management of 2,500 traffic lights. This solution enables the city to make data-driven decisions to streamline traffic flows, lower fuel consumption and reduce air pollution. This is a success story that shows the potential of Vision AI for tackling Manila’s traffic challenges.

2. Rapid incident response: Seconds that save lives

In a traffic emergency, rapid response is critical. Traditional methods often react too slowly, leading to escalating accidents and widespread gridlock.

AI-powered systems can automatically detect incidents on the road – accidents, stalled vehicles, or even unusual pedestrian behaviors – and instantly alert traffic operators. This will dramatically improve response times, enable quicker intervention, minimize disruption and potentially save lives.

Japan's highway system provides a compelling example of how AI can help contribute directly to the government’s objective of safer roads. Fujitsu's AI-powered traffic management system has significantly improved highway safety, especially during severe weather, by providing real-time data that allows for preemptive accident prevention.

3. Advanced traffic forecasting: Seeing beyond the obvious

Traditional systems often struggle to analyze complex traffic conditions in real-time, particularly in areas with limited visibility.

AI's advanced modelling capabilities can overcome these limitations. By analyzing historical data and real-time feeds, AI can predict potential bottlenecks and congestion hotspots, enabling proactive alterations to traffic signals and infrastructure planning.

Fujitsu and Carnegie Mellon University's collaboration on AI-powered social digital twin technology in Pittsburgh, USA, demonstrates this potential. The system captures highly detailed real-time traffic images, identifying potential hazards even in blind spots, resulting in a substantial reduction in accidents in the city of Pittsburgh.

We believe that an AI-powered traffic management requires a three-pronged approach

Unlocking AI's full potential requires building a robust data collection system, a scalable cloud infrastructure, and a real-time alert system. This strategic approach will empower organizations to make data-driven decisions instantly.

Robust data collection: Deploying a strategically planned network of high-resolution cameras and sensors across key areas in the Philippines will provide the foundational data for AI-driven insights.

Scalable cloud architecture: A robust and scalable cloud infrastructure will be implemented to efficiently process the huge amount of data generated by the sensor network. This architecture will ensure the system capacity keeps pace with future growth and technological advancements.

Real-time actionable response systems: Seamless integration of AI-driven insights with existing and future traffic management systems will enable real-time, adaptive responses, optimizing traffic flow and enhancing safety.

With these elements in place, decision makers can harness the power of AI to transform the country’s approach to road safety. This will help create a more efficient, safer, and responsive transportation system, achieving the objectives of the government’s Road Safety Action Plan (RSAP) and improving the lives of all Filipinos.

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