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Fastly Appoints Rachel Ler as Area VP for Asia Growth

Sunday, January 18, 2026


Global edge cloud platform Fastly is doubling down on its Asia expansion with the appointment of Rachel Ler as Area Vice President of Asia, signaling a stronger push into one of the world’s most dynamic digital regions.

Announced on January 13, 2026, Ler’s new role puts her in charge of Fastly’s business across ASEAN countries, the Greater China region, and South Korea. Her mandate focuses on accelerating growth, strengthening customer and partner relationships, and advancing Fastly’s long-term expansion strategy across Asia’s fast-evolving digital markets.

Why Asia Is a Key Focus for Fastly

Asia continues to be one of the most diverse and high-growth regions for digital services. With businesses racing to modernize platforms, secure applications, and deliver faster online experiences, demand for reliable edge cloud solutions is growing rapidly.

Fastly’s leadership sees regional proximity and market understanding as critical to meeting these needs.

According to Nicola Gerber, Vice President for Asia Pacific and Japan at Fastly, Ler’s appointment reinforces the company’s commitment to bringing the Fastly experience closer to customers across the region.

“The Asia region is one of the most diverse and dynamic markets in the world, spanning ASEAN countries, South Korea, and the Greater China region,” Gerber shared. She emphasized that localization, regional expertise, and customer proximity are central pillars of Fastly’s Asia Pacific and Japan expansion strategy.

With Ler’s background in building and leading high-performing teams across Asia Pacific, Fastly expects to deepen its regional footprint while delivering more tailored solutions to customers.

A Leader with Deep APAC Experience

Rachel Ler brings more than 20 years of experience in enterprise technology and regional leadership across Asia Pacific. Prior to joining Fastly, she held senior leadership roles at Commvault and Versa Networks, where she helped drive sustainable growth through customer-centric strategies, solution innovation, and strong partner ecosystems.

Her experience spans multiple APAC markets, giving her a strong understanding of how to scale go-to-market strategies while respecting the unique needs of each country.

This background positions Ler well to lead Fastly’s next phase of growth in Asia, where businesses range from digital-first startups to large enterprises modernizing complex infrastructures.

What Ler’s Role Means for the Philippines and ASEAN

For markets like the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia, Ler’s appointment highlights Fastly’s intention to invest further in localized leadership and support.

Under her leadership, Fastly aims to help customers modernize their digital platforms, improve application security, and deliver low-latency digital experiences closer to end users. This includes supporting businesses as they prepare for AI-ready infrastructure and increasing demands for speed, reliability, and security.

By strengthening leadership across Asia, Fastly is positioning itself as a long-term partner for organizations navigating digital transformation in the region.

Driving Edge Cloud Innovation at Scale

Ler will work closely with Gerber and Fastly’s global leadership team to advance the company’s broader strategy around edge cloud innovation, international growth, and next-generation digital infrastructure.

This includes enabling customers across ASEAN, South Korea, and the Greater China region to build faster, safer, and more resilient online experiences. With rising digital expectations across Asia, Fastly’s focus on performance and proximity becomes even more relevant.

A Shared Vision for a Faster, Safer Internet

For Ler, joining Fastly is as much about values as it is about technology.

“What excites me most about joining Fastly is its authenticity and its passion for building a faster, safer and more engaging internet,” she shared. Ler noted that digital expectations across Asia are rising quickly, and customers are looking for partners who are deeply invested in delivering secure and high-performance experiences.

She added that she is energized by the opportunity to bring Fastly’s engineering strength and customer-focused mindset to the region, and to help organizations make a meaningful impact through better digital experiences.

What This Signals for Fastly’s Asia Strategy

Ler’s appointment underscores Fastly’s continued investment in regional leadership as part of its long-term Asia strategy. By combining localized expertise with global technology capabilities, the company aims to better serve customers in markets that are rapidly shaping the future of the digital economy.

For Asia, and especially for growing digital markets like the Philippines, this move signals greater access to advanced edge cloud solutions designed to keep pace with rising user expectations.
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Igloo and Angkas Bring Affordable Insurance to Riders

Thursday, January 15, 2026


Motorcycle ride-hailing has quietly become a lifeline for millions of Filipinos navigating congested roads and limited public transport. From daily commuters to delivery workers and side-hustling riders, platforms like Angkas now play a central role in how people move around cities. But while the sector continues to grow, one critical gap remains: protection for the riders who keep it running.

That gap is now being addressed through a new partnership between regional insurtech Igloo and Angkas, the Philippines’ largest motorcycle ride-hailing platform. Together, they are rolling out affordable personal accident and medical insurance coverage for more than 20,000 Angkas riders, making safety more accessible in the country’s fast-growing gig economy.

The rise of ride-hailing services has reshaped urban mobility in the Philippines, particularly in Metro Manila and other densely populated cities. With fragmented public transportation systems and heavy traffic, motorcycles offer a faster, more flexible option for daily travel.

Industry projections show the motorcycle ride-hailing sector reaching USD 1 billion in revenue by 2030, reflecting its growing importance. Yet many riders still operate without adequate insurance, leaving them financially vulnerable in the event of accidents or medical emergencies.

This concern has not gone unnoticed by regulators. The Philippine Insurance Commission (IC) recently issued a draft circular proposing Passenger Personal Accident Insurance (PPAI) coverage for motorcycle taxis. The move signals a broader national push to strengthen rider and passenger safety as the sector expands.

How the Igloo and Angkas Partnership Works

Angkas currently has over 20,000 registered riders and more than 11 million app downloads, making it the largest motorcycle ride-hailing platform in the country. Through its collaboration with Igloo, Angkas riders are now automatically enrolled in Personal Accident (PA) plans while completing rides.

This embedded insurance model means riders do not need to apply separately or manage complicated paperwork. Protection is built directly into the platform where they earn their income.

What Coverage Riders and Passengers Get

For a minimum premium of just 52 cents per ride, both riders and passengers receive meaningful protection, including:
  • PHP 650,000 in personal accident insurance benefits
  • PHP 200,000 in medical coverage
  • Free private ambulance service in case of emergencies

This structure makes insurance affordable on a per-ride basis, especially for gig workers who prefer flexible, usage-based costs rather than large upfront payments.

For Igloo, the partnership reflects its broader mission to make insurance more inclusive and accessible across Southeast Asia.

“This partnership aims to provide thousands of Filipino riders access to affordable insurance embedded directly into the platform where they earn their livelihood, closing the protection gap by reaching them where they are,” said Raunak Mehta, Co-founder and CEO of Igloo.

“At Igloo, our mission is to make insurance accessible, relevant, and affordable for all, and we will continue forging partnerships like this to advance that vision across the region.”

By integrating insurance into everyday digital platforms, Igloo is addressing a long-standing issue faced by gig workers: limited access to financial protection despite high exposure to risk.

Angkas Strengthens Rider Trust and Safety

From Angkas’ perspective, the initiative reinforces its commitment to rider welfare and passenger trust.

“Our riders’ safety is our top priority at Angkas, and this milestone partnership allows us to provide even more support for them,” said Angeline Tham, Founder of Angkas.

“By working with Igloo, we’re able to offer accessible coverage that protects our riders and strengthens the trust that millions of Filipinos place in our service every day.”

In an industry where trust is everything, offering built-in protection helps reassure both riders and passengers that safety is not an afterthought.

A Bigger Shift in Digital Insurance

The Igloo and Angkas collaboration highlights a growing trend in the insurance industry: embedded insurance. Instead of selling standalone policies, insurers are integrating protection directly into digital services such as ride-hailing, e-commerce, and fintech platforms.

As mobility platforms continue to shape how Filipinos move and work, collaborations like this show how technology and insurance can work together to create safer, more sustainable livelihoods.

To learn more about Igloo’s products and services, visit its official website.

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How Designer Len Cabili Balances Creativity, Culture, and Connectivity

Wednesday, January 14, 2026


Filipino designer Len Cabili has always believed that meaningful work starts with meaningful connections. As the founder of Filip+Inna, she has built a globally recognized fashion label rooted in heritage, storytelling, and collaboration with indigenous Filipino artisans. But behind every handwoven textile and thoughtfully designed piece is a modern creative navigating a fast-paced, always-on world.

For Cabili, finding balance between cultural advocacy, creative leadership, and personal life is made possible through Smart Infinity, Smart’s premium postpaid brand designed for individuals who demand both performance and personalization.

A Filipino Designer Bridging Tradition and Modern Life

Len Cabili is known for doing what few designers manage to achieve. She preserves centuries-old weaving traditions while presenting them in contemporary silhouettes that resonate locally and internationally. Filip+Inna works closely with artisan communities across the Philippines, from Mindanao to Northern Luzon, ensuring that craftsmanship is honored and sustained.

This kind of work requires constant coordination, trust, and communication. It also demands flexibility. Cabili frequently moves between remote weaving communities, urban creative spaces, and international stages. Staying connected is not optional. It is essential.

Staying Connected Without Losing Balance

As both a creative director and cultural advocate, Cabili relies heavily on her network of artisans, collaborators, and clients. Technology plays a quiet but crucial role in making these relationships work.

“I rely heavily on my network to get things done,” Cabili shares. “Smart Infinity genuinely takes the time to understand my needs not just in terms of connectivity, but how I want to experience it. It’s like having a concierge for my digital life.”

Whether she is deep in the mountains of Mindanao or attending global forums, Cabili depends on reliable connectivity and personalized support to keep projects moving forward. At the same time, seamless access to entertainment and digital tools allows her to disconnect when needed and protect her work-life balance.

For creatives and business leaders alike, this balance is becoming a priority, not a luxury.

Why Work-Life Balance Matters for Filipino Creatives and Entrepreneurs

Across the Philippines, more founders, freelancers, and executives are redefining success. Productivity is no longer just about output. It is also about sustainability, wellness, and intentional living.

Technology as a Creative Enabler

For Cabili, technology enhances the creative process without overshadowing craftsmanship.

“Technology has made the creative process more efficient and faster, complementing the patience and skill behind every piece,” she explains. “Smart Infinity anticipates my needs by providing the best in technology and service to support my work.”

This mindset resonates with many Filipino entrepreneurs who juggle multiple roles and responsibilities. Reliable digital infrastructure allows them to focus on what truly matters, whether that is innovation, collaboration, or community impact.

Communication as the Foundation of Collaboration

Cabili emphasizes that communication is central to both her personal and professional life.

“Communication is key to nurturing connections with family, friends, and collaborators,” she says. “Smart Infinity’s reliable connectivity ensures I stay in touch wherever I go, whether in Kalinga or Sulu.”

In an archipelagic country like the Philippines, where distance can be a challenge, consistent connectivity helps bridge gaps. For businesses working with provincial partners or global clients, this reliability builds trust and momentum.

Inside the Smart Infinity Experience

Smart Infinity positions itself as more than a mobile service. It is designed as a premium digital partner for individuals who value time, convenience, and tailored support.

Smart Infinity members gain access to a range of exclusive benefits that support both work and lifestyle, including:
  • Worldwide Concierge Services for travel, dining, and personal requests
  • Complimentary airport lounge access for more comfortable journeys
  • Smart Rewards with premium and luxury brand partners
  • A dedicated Relationship Manager
  • 24/7 personalized support and priority assistance at Smart Stores nationwide

For Cabili, this level of service creates peace of mind.

“Knowing I can rely on their support anytime gives me peace of mind,” she shares. “Their service feels truly personal, not just transactional.”

A Shared Philosophy of Excellence and Intentionality

There is a clear alignment between Cabili’s design philosophy and Smart Infinity’s approach to service. Both value craftsmanship, foresight, and meaningful relationships.

“In my work, craftsmanship and collaboration are central,” Cabili explains. “Smart Infinity mirrors that by being intentional about service and anticipating needs before they arise.”

This shared mindset highlights a broader shift in how premium brands engage with Filipino leaders. The focus is no longer just on features, but on experience.

For Cabili, Smart Infinity has become a trusted partner that empowers her to connect, create, and continue championing Filipino artistry on the world stage.

For more information on Smart Infinity, visit Smart’s official website, dial *800, or follow @smartinfinity on Instagram.
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Vista Land Advances Multi-Market Residential Expansion as the Leading Integrated Property Developer in 2025

Monday, January 12, 2026


Vista Land sustained broad-based growth across its residential portfolio, solidifying its standing as a premier real estate development conglomerate. Its expansion in 2025 was underpinned by diversified development and a calibrated regional response to shifting housing demand, particularly the continued decentralization of economic activity and the rise of provincial centers.

Rather than concentrating volume-driven growth in a single segment, it pursued parallel developments across integrated estates, house-and-lot, and condominium properties. This multi-market strategy enabled Vista Land to effectively balance its market exposure while scaling its footprint nationwide.

Master planned developments

Vista Estates continued to serve as anchors across growth centers, combining residential, commercial, and institutional uses. In Central Luzon, Cascaia in San Fernando, Pampanga, stands to benefit from the expanding industrial base and improving connectivity. In Mindanao, integrated features within Andaluz in Zamboanga City reinforced Vista Land's viability in the southern region.

Multigenerational house-and-lot communities

Crown Asia and Camella remained core contributors for Vista Land, responding to homebuyer and investor demand for landed housing across suburban and provincial markets.


Marking its 30th anniversary, Crown Asia reinforced its presence across strategic locations from Luzon to Mindanao, including Chateau Nissa in Malolos, Pontello in Villar City; Siena, Trieste, and Vietri in Bacoor City; Fiore in Dasmariñas City, Lambertine in Tagaytay, and Verdalia in Santo Tomas, Batangas. Harland Place in Iloilo and Altaria in General Santos City underscore continued appetite beyond Luzon and their positioning in upscale markets nationwide.


Camella rolled out residential developments nationwide, targeting locations with advancing infrastructure, growing populations, and strong investment fundamentals. In North Luzon, Camella introduced Belfelice in Vigan, Camella Solano in Nueva Vizcaya, and Arezzo and Sonvielle in Urdaneta. In Central Luzon, Lucelia and Soleado in Tarlac, and Amandea in Capas, while Granvida in Baliwag, and Belterre and Solenea in Santa Maria, aligned with urban spillover from Metro Manila.

In CALABARZON, Camella launched Tudor Square and Altamira in Tanza and Silang, and Azurri and Galini in San Juan and San Pascual, Batangas, while Monteia in Tayabas extended its reach in South Luzon. Camella gained momentum with Orilla in Dumaguete City, Montevia in Cebu City, Cebu, Aurentia in Butuan, and Courtyard in Pagadian City.

Mixed-use condominiums


Vista Land strengthened its strategy by developing high-rise properties that respond to evolving lifestyles. It introduced Kinsan Heights in Metro Manila, near educational institutions and transportation networks. In contrast, Novus Prime Residences was positioned as a next-generation address for upwardly mobile professionals and investors who value exquisite living.

Market engagement

Initiatives that strengthened market visibility were also delivered. The Sandiwa Sales Conference aligned performance benchmarks and strategic priorities, while Lifescapes Expo 2025 consolidated Vista Land offerings into a single showcase for domestic and international homebuyers. Home for the Holidays emphasized transaction flexibility for Overseas Filipinos. These were complemented by Switching Off for a Sustainable Future, a campaign underscoring environmental stewardship; extended residential formats under ShoppeScapes; commercial land and leasing offerings through Vista Land Commercial Assets; and the continued rollout of VLink, Vista Land’s recruitment and accreditation platform.

Awards and recognitions

Vista Land received recognitions from the 15th Asian Excellence Awards, The Business Pinnacle Awards 2025, International Business Magazine Awards 2025, and World Business Outlook Annual Awards 2025, affirming its standing as a leading real estate organization in the region.

Honors from the Global 100 2026 ranking, the Global Good Governance Awards 2025, the Golden Arrow Awards 2025, the Manila Times Sustainability Awards, and The European Global Business Sustainable and ESG Awards 2025 validated its governance and sustainability credentials.

Vista Estates earned recognition from PropertyGuru Philippines as a Highly Commended Township Development for Georgia, and from the DOT Property Philippines Awards as Best Township Development for Verida. The DOT Property Southeast Asia Awards hailed Camella as Best Mid-Range Housing Developer, with Vista Residences receiving distinction as Best New Launch Condominium Development for Crosswalk Tower.

Vista Land remains positioned for steady growth, supported by a nationwide footprint, diversified residential developments, and a disciplined approach to expansion. With housing demand continuing to evolve alongside regional economic growth, the company is poised to translate market momentum into stable value across its master planned developments, multigenerational house-and-lot communities, and mixed-use condominium properties.

To know more about Vista Land, visit www.vistaland.com.ph and follow @VistaLandAndLifescapesOfficial.


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Vista Manors Unwraps Christmas Celebrations in a Nationwide Lighting Ceremony

Sunday, December 21, 2025


Vista Manors welcomed the season with a radiant display of celebration and community spirit as its vertical villages across the archipelago, illuminated development markers and their Christmas installations. The lighting event is a heartfelt invitation for residents, buyers, and investors to capture the festive spirit of the season in their condominium property, where comfort and connection come alive.


From the fast-growing university clusters in Luzon to the thriving economic epicenters and tourist destinations in Visayas and Mindanao, Vista Manors have become gathering places of warmth and wonder. Each vertical village unveiled its Christmas Tree or Light Display, lit through synchronized countdowns, reinforcing the company’s commitment to creating enhanced experiences where meaningful moments unfold.

Vibrant vertical villages


The evening program opened with Christmas carols performed by choirs and local performers, echoing the notes and nostalgia woven into Filipino traditions. Guests were handed lanterns, symbolizing gratitude and hope, creating a moving spectacle of soft lights held high by families and future homeowners.

Group Head Eduardo Aguilar shared, “Our lighting ceremony is more than a vivid display across our vertical villages; it reflects the Vista Manors vision of giving families sound real estate investments. As we unwrap the season in this wonderful spectacle, we aim to make it easier for every Filipino to secure a space in a vertical village where their stories can shine for years to come.”


As the shared switch-on reached its peak, each vertical village was unwrapped in unison. Christmas trees were lit in vivid colors, facades shimmered with seasonal splendor, and landmarks lit open spaces. In select sites, the lighting was followed by sparklers, musical serenades, refreshments, and charming community showcases.

Home for the Holidays: A Christmas invitation to come home


Through its annual Home for the Holidays campaign, Vista Manors extends spot-cash savings to buyers and investors seeking the advantages of early purchase. Additional reductions on ready-for-occupancy (RFO) properties enable a smoother transition into immediate move-in, whether for end use or through leasing. It also offers flexible payment terms for its non-ready-for-occupancy (NRFO) condominiums with a manageable 15 percent down payment for up to 45 months, with the final down payment free. This structure eases short-term commitments, securing a contemporary living space ahead of market adjustments.

Vista Manors sweetens the season with reservation rewards in select vertical villages, including premium gifts, gift certificates, or shopping privileges valued at up to PHP 10,000. It encourages buyers and investors to explore these holiday offerings and discover the possibilities that await in its condominium properties nationwide. Terms and conditions apply until December 31, 2025.

Elevating condominium living for Filipinos nationwide

Vista Manors integrates the convenience of a condominium with the facilities familiar to every neighborhood, a combination that appeals to buyers and investors seeking enhanced experiences in their vertical villages. Its reduced floor-to-floor density provides unimpeded movement across several levels, granting its residents an elevated lifestyle with a range of layouts—all nestled in mixed-use buildings with access to bustling business districts and commercial centers. The roster of amenities, including swimming pools, function halls, play courts, gyms, landscaped parks and gardens, and view decks, creates a resort-themed environment, making coming home a restful retreat at the end of every day.

Vista Manors ensures that all the necessities and requirements of its residents are met through flexible payment terms and comprehensive sales services. Offering sound real estate investments amid shifting economic trends, these condominium properties have shown consistent appreciation annually, presenting promising prospects for long-term stability.

To learn more about Vista Manors and its vertical villages, visit www.vistamanors.com.ph and follow @VistaManorsOfficial.
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MDEC and Ant International Partner to Accelerate MSME Digitalisation in Malaysia

Friday, December 19, 2025


The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and Ant International have announced a strengthened partnership to accelerate the digital transformation of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Malaysia.

Under a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Ant International will provide local MSMEs with EPOS, its all-in-one SME transformation platform within Antom. EPOS offers an integrated suite of digitalisation solutions, including payments, digital banking, operations management, online store deployment, and AI-powered productivity tools. MDEC will support the programme by engaging the MSME community, industry associations, and ecosystem partners to drive nationwide digital adoption.

This initiative builds on MDEC’s ongoing collaboration with Ant International through its Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI), which fosters local talent and innovation development via Ant International’s global digital business centre in Kuala Lumpur.

Driving Digital Inclusion for Malaysian MSMEs

MSMEs form the backbone of Malaysia’s economy, representing 97% of all business establishments, yet many struggle with digital adoption due to limited access, cost barriers, and lack of technical knowledge.

Through EPOS, Ant International aims to bridge these gaps by unifying digital solutions and AI technologies into a single, easy-to-use platform. MSMEs will benefit from:
  • Seamless payments and digital banking solutions
  • Multi-channel online store deployment
  • Operations management tools
  • AI-powered business insights to optimize productivity and decision-making

Retail and F&B merchants, in particular, can leverage these tools to reduce labour costs, improve operational efficiency, and meet rising customer expectations for digital experiences.

“Malaysian MSMEs are ambitious, resilient, and eager to grow, but they need the right tools to compete in an increasingly digital economy,” said Ian Cheong, CEO of EPOS. “EPOS makes advanced technology accessible within minutes, enabling even the smallest businesses to operate smarter, serve customers better, and scale with confidence.”

Synergy with National Digitalisation Strategy

MDEC, as the lead agency for Malaysia’s transformation into an innovation-led digital economy, will spearhead initiatives to maximize the reach and impact of this partnership. Key activities will include:
  • Workshops and training sessions to raise digital awareness and literacy among SMEs
  • Co-developed programs to facilitate adoption of digital solutions
  • Alignment with national digitalisation strategies to ensure broad and sustained impact

“Digitalisation has become a fundamental requirement for MSMEs to stay competitive and resilient,” said Anuar Fariz Fadzil, CEO of MDEC. “Our collaboration with Ant International ensures even the smallest enterprises can access modern, AI-enabled tools, transforming how they operate and participate fully in the digital economy.”

Empowering MSMEs for the Future

This partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to inclusive growth and digital empowerment for Malaysian MSMEs. By providing affordable, accessible, and intelligent digital solutions, MDEC and Ant International are enabling businesses to:
  • Operate efficiently in a digital-first world
  • Make data-driven decisions
  • Expand reach and scale sustainably
  • Stay competitive in rapidly evolving markets

With EPOS and MDEC’s ecosystem support, Malaysian MSMEs are better positioned to embrace digitalisation, enhance operational efficiency, and unlock new growth opportunities.
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Appdome Launches Agentic AI Suite to Fight Mobile Fraud and Security Threats in Real Time


As mobile apps become the front door of digital businesses—from banking and e-commerce to super apps—cyber threats are evolving just as fast. Fraud, account takeovers, and API attacks are no longer isolated incidents; they’re persistent, AI-driven risks. At Black Hat Europe, Appdome responded to this challenge by unveiling something new: the industry’s first conversational, agentic AI intelligence suite built specifically to protect mobile businesses.

Designed for cybersecurity and anti-fraud teams, Appdome’s new Agentic AI Suite goes beyond dashboards and alerts. It introduces AI “teammates” that can reason, collaborate, and act, helping enterprises defend their mobile apps faster and more intelligently.

What Makes Appdome’s Agentic AI Different

Unlike generic AI copilots, Appdome’s new suite is purpose-built for mobile security, fraud prevention, and API protection. The platform introduces five specialized AI Agents that work inside a secure enterprise environment, allowing multiple teams to collaborate using AI at the same time.

Built on the Appdome platform, these agents tap into:
  • Over a decade of mobile defense and build data
  • Trillions of real-world threat events
  • Billions of mobile app installations worldwide
  • Advanced deep learning models

The result is a conversational, “ask-me-anything” intelligence layer that delivers insights, remediation steps, and recommendations tailored to each mobile business.

According to Tom Tovar, CEO and co-creator of Appdome, agentic AI enables faster learning and decision-making across massive datasets and Appdome is uniquely positioned to make that intelligence actionable for cyber defense.

Meet the Agentic AI Teammates Protecting Mobile Apps

Appdome’s Agentic AI Suite is an opt-in service made up of five distinct agents. Two are available now:

Support Agent – helps answer questions and surface insights from mobile defense data

SecOps Agent – assists security teams in identifying threats and accelerating response

Additional agents coming soon include:
  • DevOps Agent
  • Defense Posture Management (DPM) Agent
  • Threat Research Agent

Once activated, each agent continuously analyzes mobile and threat data, reasons autonomously, and interacts with teams to flag risks, trends, and recommended actions without waiting for manual prompts.

AI Teammates, Not Just Assistants

A key design principle behind Appdome’s approach is treating AI as a teammate, not a passive assistant. These agents don’t just answer questions, they proactively notify teams when new risks or notable patterns emerge.

This dramatically reduces manual monitoring and alert fatigue. In practice, Appdome says cyber teams can cut mean time to respond by up to 90%, thanks to faster investigations, reduced analyst workload, and rapid deployment through its “click to defend” model.

As Avi Yehuda, CTO and co-creator of Appdome, explained, what generic AI tools lack is mobile-specific context. Appdome’s agents connect AI reasoning directly to each company’s apps, threat landscape, and defenses producing answers that are relevant, not generic.

Built-In Collaboration for Cyber and Anti-Fraud Teams

Modern cyber defense can’t live in silos. Appdome’s Agentic AI Suite introduces social-style collaboration features directly into the platform. Teams can now:
  • Like and comment on AI insights
  • Tag teammates across departments
  • Share alerts, recommendations, and discoveries

This enables cyber, engineering, anti-fraud, DevOps, and business teams to collaborate in real time, bridging knowledge gaps and aligning faster on defense strategies.

Gil Hartman, Field CTO and founding engineer at Appdome, noted that email and chat tools are no longer enough. Enterprises want a centralized space where cross-functional teams can actively defend mobile apps together.

Enterprise Guardrails Keep Agentic AI Secure and Governed

While agentic AI unlocks powerful reasoning, it also introduces risks if not properly governed. Appdome addresses this by keeping all AI agents fully contained within its enterprise-grade platform.

Key safeguards include:
  • No learning or data retention outside the tenant
  • Strict isolation of all intelligence
  • Full audit trails and access controls
  • Context Engineering instead of generic RAG, ensuring all AI reasoning is grounded in verified Appdome data

This means enterprises can safely explore their own threat data, compare defense posture against industry trends, and resolve mobile and API threats without leaking sensitive information into public AI models.

Why This Matters for Mobile-First Enterprises

For businesses operating in mobile-first markets like Southeast Asia and the Philippines, fraud and security threats directly impact trust and revenue. Appdome’s Agentic AI Suite signals a shift in how mobile security is managed moving from reactive tools to proactive, collaborative, AI-driven defense.

As analyst Jason Bloomberg of Intellyx noted, Appdome’s AI agents don’t just provide opinions, they deliver objective, data-driven insights that help organizations stay ahead of cyberattacks and fraud.

Agentic AI is quickly becoming the next frontier in enterprise cybersecurity, and Appdome’s approach stands out by combining deep mobile threat data, real collaboration, and strong governance. For mobile brands serious about scaling securely, this launch shows how AI can finally move from hype to real-world protection.

To learn more about Appdome’s Agentic AI offerings, visit the company’s official website.
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Couchbase Launches AI Services to Help Enterprises Deploy Secure Agentic AI at Scale


As more companies move beyond experimenting with AI and start deploying intelligent agents in real-world environments, one challenge keeps surfacing: control. From data governance and security to performance and reliability, enterprises need AI systems they can trust especially when these tools are already making decisions that affect operations, customers, and revenue.

This is where Couchbase AI Services comes in. Now generally available, the new offering positions Couchbase as a single, AI-native database platform that allows enterprises to build, deploy, and govern agentic AI applications without the complexity that often stalls AI projects at the prototype stage.

What Couchbase AI Services Brings to the Table

Couchbase, the developer database platform behind many mission-critical applications, introduced AI Services to solve a common enterprise problem: fragmented AI infrastructure. Instead of juggling separate tools for data, vectors, models, and governance, enterprises can now manage everything within one unified platform.

According to Barry Morris, Chief Product and Strategy Officer at Couchbase, organizations deploying AI agents need more than experimentation tools. They need an end-to-end system that is secure, trustworthy, and production-ready. Couchbase AI Services integrates AI capabilities directly across the product suite, enabling repeatable, scalable deployment for intelligent applications.

One Unified Platform for Data, Vectors, and Models

Moving generative and agentic AI into production is often slowed by:
  • Integrating structured and unstructured data
  • Security and privacy risks tied to public LLMs
  • AI hallucinations and unreliable outputs
  • Rapidly evolving AI tooling that’s hard to govern

Couchbase addresses these challenges by combining data management and AI services in a single platform. Key capabilities include:
  • Secure model hosting through NVIDIA AI Enterprise, including NVIDIA NIM microservices and Nemotron models
  • Automatic vector creation, storage, and search
  • Unified Agent Catalog for governance and traceability
  • Intelligent agent memory for contextual, multi-session interactions
  • Built-in AI Functions that support SQL++-based analysis directly inside applications

By removing the need for multiple vendors and systems, Couchbase reduces latency, simplifies architecture, and lowers the cost of running large language model–powered applications.

Built-In Governance for Trustworthy AI Decisions

For enterprises, trust is non-negotiable especially when AI agents operate on sensitive data. Couchbase AI Services embeds governance directly into every interaction.

Organizations can set guardrails that validate AI outputs against enterprise data and business rules before any action is taken. This ensures that decisions made by autonomous agents are traceable, auditable, and compliant with internal policies.

By keeping both data and models within a single governed environment, enterprises retain full control without sacrificing speed or scalability.

Real-World Impact: Faster, More Reliable AI Development

AI-driven companies are already seeing the value of a unified platform. Joe Intrakamhang, CTO of SWARM Engineering, shared that Couchbase AI Services allows their team to streamline the entire retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) pipeline.

Instead of wrestling with infrastructure, teams can focus on solving real problems such as optimizing supply chains, logistics, and workforce planning. For enterprise customers making mission-critical decisions, having a secure and reliable AI foundation is essential.

Strong Industry Backing from NVIDIA and AI Partners

Couchbase AI Services also comes with strong ecosystem support. Industry leaders see agentic AI as the next phase of enterprise productivity but only if it’s deployed with proper governance and performance controls.

  • NVIDIA highlighted Couchbase’s integration of NIM microservices and Nemotron models as a way to accelerate production-ready AI agents
  • Arize AI emphasized improved observability and evaluation for multi-agent systems through Arize AX
  • Unstructured.io enables direct ingestion and vectorization of unstructured enterprise data
  • K2view supports the creation of privacy-preserving, high-quality synthetic datasets for AI grounding

Together, these partnerships strengthen Couchbase’s position as a central platform for enterprise-grade AI.

As AI adoption accelerates across industries from finance and retail to logistics and manufacturing, enterprises need infrastructure that balances innovation with control. Couchbase AI Services offers a practical path forward: faster deployment, fewer moving parts, and built-in trust.

For organizations serious about moving agentic AI from concept to production, this unified approach removes many of the barriers that have slowed AI initiatives in the past.

AI Services are available now, with more details accessible through Couchbase’s official channels and partner ecosystem resources.

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RCBC Partners with Digital Edge NARRA 1 for Resilient Digital Banking

Monday, December 15, 2025


Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) is taking a decisive step toward future-ready banking as it formalizes a strategic partnership with Digital Edge (Singapore) Holdings Pte. Ltd., reinforcing the backbone of the Philippines’ fast-evolving digital finance ecosystem.

Under the partnership, RCBC will migrate its production site to Digital Edge’s NARRA 1, currently the largest operating true carrier-neutral data center in the Philippines. The move supports RCBC’s long-term digital transformation agenda, ensuring its systems are resilient, secure, and capable of supporting the growing demand for always-on digital banking services nationwide.

The ceremonial signing was held at RCBC Plaza in Makati City, attended by senior leaders from both organizations, including RCBC President and CEO Reggie Cariaso, RCBC Chief Information Officer John Alabastro, Digital Edge Philippines President and CEO Vic Barrios, and Threadborne Group Chairman Charlie Rufino.

Building a stronger foundation for next-generation banking

The Philippine banking sector is entering a new era marked by accelerating digital adoption, increasing transaction volumes, the rise of AI-enabled services, and stricter cybersecurity and regulatory expectations. For banks, this shift demands not only innovation but also a stronger and more resilient technology foundation.

As part of its 2026 digital roadmap, RCBC is focused on enhancing operational resilience, expanding high-availability infrastructure, and strengthening compliance across its most critical environments. Migrating production workloads to NARRA 1 enables the bank to safeguard essential systems, support expanding digital services, and deliver consistent, secure customer experiences even as demand continues to rise.

This infrastructure upgrade comes at a pivotal time. As more Filipinos rely on digital channels for everyday banking, RCBC is reinforcing its IT backbone to stay ahead of industry expectations and support long-term growth.

“Digital Edge’s operational track record, sustainability-centered engineering expertise, and commitment to security made them the right partner for us,” said John Alabastro, RCBC Chief Information Officer. “We selected NARRA 1 because it delivers the technical scale and environmental efficiency required by a modern, fast-growing bank.”

Why NARRA 1 fits RCBC’s mission-critical needs

Designed to support high-demand enterprise workloads, NARRA 1 provides a future-ready environment for RCBC’s mission-critical operations. The facility features a Tier 3, carrier-neutral architecture engineered for high availability, supported by 100 percent dual-power redundancy to minimize the risk of service disruption.

Security and privacy controls at NARRA 1 are aligned with the stringent requirements of the banking sector, helping RCBC meet regulatory expectations while protecting sensitive customer and transactional data. At the same time, the data center’s renewable-energy-powered and energy-efficient design supports RCBC’s broader sustainability objectives.

Together, these capabilities allow RCBC to scale production workloads with confidence, balancing performance, reliability, and environmental responsibility as it accelerates its digital transformation.

Supporting the shift to hybrid and cloud-ready banking

The partnership also reflects a broader trend across the Philippine financial sector. Banks and financial institutions are increasingly modernizing legacy systems and moving toward hybrid and cloud-ready environments to support innovation, improve agility, and strengthen resilience.

“We are seeing a clear shift as financial institutions prioritize resilience and modernization,” said Vic Barrios, President and CEO of Digital Edge Philippines. “RCBC’s decision to locate its production workloads in NARRA 1 validates our commitment to providing banking-grade infrastructure built for security, uptime, and high-density performance.”

Barrios added that Digital Edge is well-positioned to support RCBC and other financial institutions as they prepare for the next phase of digital growth.

A sustainable and compliant data center for regulated industries

NARRA 1 stands out not only for scale and reliability, but also for sustainability and compliance. The facility is TIA-942-C certified, powered entirely by renewable energy, and recognized with BERDE, IFC EDGE, and LEED Gold certifications. It is also engineered to deliver one of the lowest Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) ratings in the region, reinforcing its position as one of Southeast Asia’s most energy-efficient data centers.

Built to meet the regulatory and security standards required by banks and other regulated institutions, NARRA 1 offers a stable, high-performance environment for modern financial operations. Its industry recognition, including the Innovation in Energy Efficiency Award for Southeast Asia from the W.Media Asia Pacific Cloud and Data Center Awards, further underscores its engineering excellence.

For RCBC, colocating in a highly resilient and environmentally efficient facility strengthens its vision of building a secure and sustainable digital banking ecosystem. For the broader industry, the partnership highlights growing momentum among Philippine banks to adopt modern, sustainability-driven colocation solutions.

Setting the pace for 2026 and beyond

The collaboration between RCBC and Digital Edge sets a strong benchmark for how banks can align resilience, efficiency, and sustainability in their digital infrastructure strategies. As digital banking continues to expand and technologies evolve, the partnership positions RCBC to meet today’s demands while remaining ready for the innovations expected in 2026 and beyond.

By investing in robust, future-ready infrastructure, RCBC reinforces its commitment to delivering reliable digital services to millions of Filipinos, while Digital Edge strengthens its role as a trusted partner for mission-critical financial workloads in the Philippines.
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Visa and CIBI Team Up to Expand Responsible Credit Access for Underserved Filipinos

Saturday, December 13, 2025


Access to credit remains a challenge for many Filipinos who are active contributors to the economy but lack a formal credit history. Addressing this long-standing gap, Visa and CIBI Information, Inc. have entered into a strategic alliance aimed at widening responsible access to credit across the Philippines.

Formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding, the partnership brings together Visa’s global expertise in digital payments and analytics with CIBI’s role as the country’s pioneering credit bureau. Together, the two organizations plan to explore and pilot data-driven credit solutions designed specifically to support “thin-file” consumers, or individuals with limited or no traditional credit records.

Tackling the thin-file challenge in the Philippines

Despite steady income streams, many Filipinos remain underserved by the financial system. This includes gig workers, BPO employees, and overseas Filipino workers, who often face difficulties accessing loans or credit cards due to incomplete credit histories. At the same time, banks and digital lenders are under pressure to grow their customer base while managing risk responsibly.

The Visa and CIBI collaboration aims to bridge this gap by improving how creditworthiness is assessed. Visa brings to the table its Credit Lab, an end-to-end solution that combines fraud management with alternative data enrichment. This includes insights from telco usage, utilities, devices, and other behavioral data, all of which can help paint a more accurate picture of a consumer’s financial reliability.

CIBI complements this with its extensive experience and trusted position in the Philippine credit information space. By integrating these capabilities, the partnership seeks to help financial institutions make more informed credit decisions without compromising risk standards.

Practical benefits for financial institutions

One of the key goals of the alliance is to equip banks, issuers, and digital lenders with tools that enable responsible growth. The joint initiatives are expected to unlock several advantages for business-to-business partners.

First, issuers can expand credit acquisition by confidently approving credit for thin-file consumers. Enhanced data models provide a deeper understanding of applicant behavior, allowing lenders to responsibly onboard new customers who may have been previously excluded.

Second, the partnership supports improved SME risk assessment. Small and medium enterprises often struggle to secure financing due to limited documentation or fragmented data. With clearer visibility into SME borrowers, lenders can make more accurate and scalable lending decisions that support business growth.

Third, financial institutions gain access to data-driven industry insights that can help grow portfolios. Deeper market intelligence allows lenders to identify emerging segments, spot new growth opportunities, and refine credit strategies in an increasingly competitive market.

Collectively, these outcomes align with the shared objective of strengthening the Philippine financial ecosystem through trusted data and analytics-led innovation.

A shared commitment to inclusion and trust

Leaders from both organizations emphasized that the partnership is rooted in a shared belief that access to credit should be inclusive, responsible, and empowering.

Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager of Visa Philippines, highlighted the importance of addressing long-standing gaps in credit scoring. He noted that many Filipinos remain thin-file despite actively participating in the economy. Through the partnership, Visa aims to complement its Credit Lab capabilities with CIBI’s leadership as a credit bureau to develop solutions that expand access to credit and set new benchmarks for the industry. According to Navarro, the collaboration reflects Visa’s broader commitment to inclusive growth and strengthening the digital economy.

For CIBI, the alliance reinforces its mission as a nation-building partner that uses trusted data to unlock opportunity. Pia Arellano, President and CEO of CIBI Information, Inc., shared that the organization believes data has the power to enable individuals and small businesses to grow, recover, and contribute more meaningfully to the economy. She described the partnership with Visa as deeply aligned with CIBI’s purpose of building a more inclusive, transparent, and trusted financial ecosystem.

Arellano also emphasized that access to credit must come with empowerment. Beyond signing an agreement, she said the partnership affirms a shared responsibility to use data wisely, enable inclusion, and help build a stronger financial future for the Philippines.

What the next 12 months will bring

Over the coming year, Visa and CIBI plan to explore new credit use cases, develop industry insights on emerging credit behaviors, and support financial literacy initiatives across the country. Both organizations agree that success will ultimately be measured by how many Filipinos are included in the financial system in a secure, responsible, and sustainable way.

Navarro and Arellano both expressed optimism about the long-term impact of the collaboration, noting that its benefits are expected to extend well beyond the initial 12-month period.

As the Philippines continues its shift toward a more digital and inclusive economy, the Visa and CIBI partnership signals an important step forward. By combining global technology with local data expertise, the alliance positions both organizations at the forefront of advancing responsible credit access and strengthening trust in the country’s financial ecosystem.
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Shell Dominates Global Lubricants Market for 19 Straight Years, Reinforcing Leadership in Automotive and Industrial Innovation

 

Shell Lubricants continues to set the pace in the global energy and mobility space, securing its position as the world’s number one supplier of finished lubricants for the 19th consecutive year. This milestone was confirmed in the 23rd edition of Kline & Company’s Global Lubricants: Market Analysis and Assessment 2025, one of the most respected industry benchmarks worldwide.

According to the report, Shell ranked first globally based on finished lubricants sales volumes across both automotive and industrial segments. With a global market share of 11.6 percent, Shell once again outperformed competitors, demonstrating the strength of its long-term strategy, product portfolio, and customer relationships.

A balanced global performance across key segments

Kline’s 2025 analysis shows that Shell’s global lubricants sales in 2024 were distributed almost evenly across three major segments. Consumer automotive lubricants accounted for 37 percent, while industrial lubricants made up 32 percent, and commercial automotive products represented 31 percent of total volume. This balance highlights Shell’s ability to serve a wide range of customers, from everyday motorists to large-scale industrial and fleet operations.

Beyond overall volume, Shell also maintained its number one ranking in all three categories evaluated by Kline: consumer automotive, commercial automotive, and industrial lubricants. This consistent performance reflects not only scale, but also the company’s continued investment in technology, product quality, and market relevance.

The Kline report further examined trends shaping the lubricants industry, including the rise of electric vehicles, the growth of digital and energy infrastructure, and emerging applications such as immersion cooling fluids. Shell’s leadership across these evolving areas underscores its readiness to support both current and future demands.

Leadership driven by customer focus and innovation

Jason Wong, Global Executive Vice President of Shell Lubricants, emphasized that the company’s long-standing leadership is anchored on customer value and continuous improvement.

“At nineteen consecutive years of leadership as the number one global supplier of finished lubricants, we remain focused on the ability of lubricants to power progress across consumer, commercial and industrial applications,” Wong said. He added that Shell’s ambition is to be the most customer-focused energy marketer and trader, supported by ongoing investments in premium, high-efficiency products that deliver long-term value.

From Kline’s perspective, Shell’s achievement stands out not only for its longevity but also for the discipline behind it. Sushmita Dutta, Senior Project Manager at Kline, described the milestone as a reflection of a clear and consistent strategy. She noted that Shell’s success is rooted in its commitment to technologically advanced products and its ability to build enduring partnerships across sectors.
A strong portfolio of globally trusted brands

Shell’s leadership has been reinforced by a lineup of well-established and widely preferred brands. These include Shell Advance for motorcycles, Shell Helix for passenger cars, Shell Rimula for trucks and heavy-duty engines, and Shell Tellus and Shell Gadus for industrial applications. These products continue to be trusted choices in major markets around the world, including the Philippines.

In 2025, Shell further strengthened its technology credentials when Shell Helix Ultra became one of the first motor oils to meet the latest API SQ specifications, setting a new benchmark for engine performance and protection. This was followed by the launch of Shell Advance Ultra with API SP, positioned as Shell’s most advanced motorcycle and scooter engine oil to date. Notably, it remains the only premium motorcycle oil recommended by Ducati Corse, reinforcing its global performance reputation.

Shell also renewed its decade-long partnership with BMW M Motorsport, highlighting its continued involvement in high-performance environments where lubricant reliability and innovation are critical.

Expanding beyond automotive into future-ready solutions

While automotive lubricants remain a core strength, Shell is also making significant strides beyond traditional mobility. The company recently introduced DLC Fluid S3, a Direct Liquid Cooling solution designed for high-performance computing and artificial intelligence applications.

In May, Shell Lubricants achieved another industry milestone when its immersion cooling fluids became the first to receive Intel certification. This certification enables their use in data centers worldwide, positioning Shell at the forefront of cooling solutions for digital infrastructure and energy-efficient computing.

This expansion into advanced cooling technologies reflects how Shell is adapting its lubricants expertise to support emerging industries, not just engines and machinery.

Sustaining leadership in a changing market

As the lubricants industry continues to evolve alongside electrification, digitalization, and sustainability goals, Shell’s 19-year leadership streak sends a clear message. Scale alone is not enough. Long-term success depends on innovation, customer trust, and the ability to anticipate where markets are heading.

For Filipino businesses, fleet operators, and consumers, Shell’s continued dominance signals reliability and future readiness. As global demands shift, Shell appears well-positioned to remain a key partner in powering mobility, industry, and technology in the years ahead.
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Meet Magento Philippines 2025 Wraps Up Its First Conference with Big Ideas and a Stronger Ecommerce Community


The Philippine ecommerce community reached an important milestone this year as Meet Magento Philippines 2025 officially wrapped up its inaugural conference. Held on November 19, 2025, at The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion, the event gathered more than 250 merchants, developers, founders, and digital leaders under one roof. Organized by Dev Team in partnership with the Magento Association, the conference marked a confident entry of the global Meet Magento series into the local tech scene.

From the moment attendees walked in, it was clear that this was more than just another industry conference. Meet Magento Philippines was designed as a space for honest conversations, practical learning, and meaningful connections. Across a full day of keynotes, fireside chats, and panel discussions, speakers tackled the real challenges facing ecommerce today, from scaling platforms and managing marketplaces to navigating AI-powered commerce and understanding Filipino consumer behavior.

A full-spectrum look at modern ecommerce

The speaker lineup brought together experienced Magento professionals, technology innovators, and business leaders who have worked hands-on with ecommerce growth. Sessions explored how merchants can future-proof their platforms, make smarter technology investments, and leverage open-source development to stay competitive.

Discussions around AI-driven commerce and platform scalability resonated strongly with attendees, especially as many Filipino businesses continue to transition from small online stores to enterprise-level operations. Panels also highlighted the importance of adapting global ecommerce strategies to local market realities, including payment preferences, logistics challenges, and customer expectations in the Philippines and the wider APAC region.

More importantly, the sessions were highly actionable. Attendees did not just hear about trends, they gained insights they could immediately apply to improve operations, optimize performance, and plan long-term growth.

Community-first connections beyond the stage

The energy of Meet Magento Philippines 2025 started even before the conference day. On November 18, community members, speakers, and sponsors gathered for the official pre-party at Engkanto Taps in Forbes Town. True to Meet Magento tradition worldwide, the pre-party created a relaxed environment where conversations flowed easily over craft beer, helping break the ice before the main event.

This emphasis on community carried through the conference and into the evening afterparty. The MMPH afterparty capped off the day with unlimited craft beer from Engkanto Brewery, cocktails, Pinoy street food, and music. It was a fitting close to an event that balanced professional learning with genuine camaraderie.

Strong support from partners and sponsors

Meet Magento Philippines 2025 was made possible through the collective effort of its sponsors and partners. HVYÄ, the Headline Sponsor, played a key role in elevating the event’s overall experience and production quality.

The conference also acknowledged the contributions of its Marketplace Sponsors, including Builda, OnTap, BeBIT Tech, and ICube, whose support helped enrich the content and networking opportunities. Additional backing came from Supporting Sponsors such as Above The Fray, Amasty, luroConnect, Maru, ComVisory, ExoAsia, and JKJ Printing, all of whom contributed to the success of the event.

Special recognition was given to Engkanto Brewery as the Official Beer Partner, bringing locally crafted beer to the pre-party, conference, and afterparty. The Journey, as the Official Pre-Party Sponsor, helped reinforce the community tradition that has become synonymous with Meet Magento events worldwide.

Equally important were the Official Community Partners, including DEVCON Laguna Chapter, Filipino Web Development Peers, AWS User Group Philippines, AWS Cloud Club Philippines, AWS User Group BuildHERS+, and foundHER. Their involvement expanded the event’s reach and strengthened collaboration across the local tech and ecommerce ecosystem.

A strong debut with momentum for the future

Despite being a first-time event, Meet Magento Philippines felt anything but new. Attendees praised the quality of discussions, the smooth execution, and the openness of the community. Online feedback echoed this sentiment, with one local developer calling it “a meaningful moment to share ideas, talk about emerging trends, and learn from each other’s recent experiences and professional growth.” An AI and ecommerce entrepreneur visiting from the United States added that Magento now appears to have more momentum than it has had in years.

For Dev Team, Meet Magento Philippines 2025 represents only the beginning. The organization remains committed to strengthening ecommerce infrastructure, improving accessibility, and creating more opportunities for Filipino merchants and developers to thrive. With a successful first conference now complete, the foundation has been laid for a growing, more connected Magento and ecommerce community in the Philippines.
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