PLDT Enterprise Boosts Transport & Logistics with Smarter, Stronger Connectivity Solutions

PLDT Enterprise Boosts Transport & Logistics with Smarter, Stronger Connectivity Solutions

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

PLDT Enterprise is accelerating digital progress in the country’s transport and logistics sectors by delivering stronger, smarter wireless connectivity through Wireless Indoor Coverage.

Given the Philippines’ archipelagic geography and rugged terrain, many areas stand to benefit more from wireless connectivity solutions than from traditional wired infrastructure, making solutions like Wireless Indoor Coverage especially relevant in supporting the evolving needs of these industries.

“Reliable wireless coverage plays a critical role in enhancing communication across transport and logistics operations, from real-time SMS updates to clear voice calls and seamless data access. Whether inside warehouses, distribution hubs, or transit terminals, strong connectivity ensures accurate coordination, minimizes failed deliveries, and keeps customers informed every step of the way. This ultimately drives greater operational efficiency and boosts consumer satisfaction,” said John Gonzales, First Vice President and Head of Enterprise Consulting Services and Technology Management at PLDT Enterprise.

A Commitment to Transport and Logistics Innovation

PLDT Enterprise’s Wireless Indoor Coverage is about enabling transformation. By integrating wireless connectivity within vehicles and transit hubs, the solution supports the industry through:

• Reliable connectivity on the move, enabling uninterrupted access to safety systems and communications as vehicles travel through different environments
• Consistent, mobile-ready coverage that supports real-time safety features and critical system updates wherever the journey leads
• Remote network management for vehicle fleets, ensuring timely security and configuration updates
• Extended coverage into previously underserved zones, enabling consistent wireless connectivity in enclosed spaces such as bus depots, terminals, and vehicles where signal traditionally weakens

With wired internet still a challenge in some areas of the country, wireless broadband, particularly 5G, emerges as a powerful alternative in the meantime, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and wider reach to connect underserved areas and enable next-generation technologies.

Given this, Wireless Indoor Coverage helps solve long-standing industry challenges in transport operations—such as ensuring timely SMS alerts (including OTPs), enabling reliable voice calls during emergencies, and maintaining strong mobile data signals for seamless access to navigation apps, dispatch systems, and cloud-based tools.

All these innovations and their respective benefits align with the broader nationwide effort to overcome digital barriers in infrastructure, as highlighted in recent reports on wireless broadband advancements in the Philippines.

Enabling Safety, Efficiency, and Growth for Long Routes and Regional Mobility

PLDT Enterprise’s wireless solutions are designed to keep fleets connected even as they traverse remote areas and regional boundaries. Whether managing cargo transfers between provinces or maintaining communication on extended delivery routes, the solution supports stable, secure wireless access that scales with the mobility needs of the country.

This expanded reach reinforces PLDT Enterprise’s commitment to being the trusted network partner for nationwide transport transformation.

Moreover, by offering transport operators the ability to manage their wireless networks remotely via cloud platforms, the solution not only enhances operational continuity but also boosts cybersecurity and resiliency—key pillars in today’s security-sensitive landscape.

Driving Collaboration for Future Innovations

PLDT Enterprise envisions this initiative as a call to action for transportation companies, logistics operators, and public sector stakeholders to come together and reimagine how businesses move.

“We invite industry players to collaborate with us in crafting wireless solutions that are tailor-fit for their specific environments and use cases. Connectivity should move with you—and with PLDT Enterprise,” Gonzales added.

Learn more about PLDT Enterprise’s comprehensive suite of solutions, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise_wireless-indoor-coverage_pr

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Cashalo Secures US$75M to Boost Financial Inclusion, Hits 5 Million Loans Milestone

Cashalo Secures US$75M to Boost Financial Inclusion, Hits 5 Million Loans Milestone

Monday, June 16, 2025

Cashalo celebrates a major milestone with the signing of a US$75 million loan facility from global investment firm Community Investment Management. The partnership aims to expand access to fair and responsible digital lending for underserved communities in the Philippines, supporting Cashalo’s mission to promote financial inclusion and uplift more Filipino lives. (From L-R): Luke Stidham - President of Paloo Financing; Mac Muir - CFO of Empower; Gabby Ayala - General Manager of Paloo Financing)

Cashalo, a leading digital financial services provider in the Philippines, has secured a loan facility of up to US$75 million from global private investment firm Community Investment Management (CIM). The facility will support Cashalo’s rapidly growing business in the Philippines and further its mission to expand access to fair credit to millions of underserved Filipinos.

“This partnership will enable us to accelerate our mission to expand financial inclusion and social mobility throughout the Philippines,” said Luke Stidham, President of Cashalo. “With CIM's backing, we have an incredible opportunity to uplift even more Filipino communities by scaling our impact and ensuring more Filipinos are included in the financial system.”

Bernhard Eikenberg, a Partner at CIM for its emerging markets strategy, added: “We’re proud to support Cashalo’s mission in the Philippines. Their data-driven approach, commitment to transparency, and inclusive strategy reflect the future of responsible digital lending.”

The CIM partnership comes as Cashalo marks its first anniversary as part of Empower Finance, a US-based fintech committed to democratizing access to fair credit. In the past year, Cashalo has significantly expanded its digital lending capabilities, improving customer experiences and increasing opportunities for financial inclusion across the country. To date, Cashalo has granted almost 5 million loans to Filipinos.

As part of this new chapter, Cashalo is introducing a refreshed brand identity that reflects its growth, momentum, and enduring mission. The redesigned logo features bold blue typography to convey stability and trust, complemented by golden-yellow sun rays symbolizing the optimism and resilience of the Filipino spirit.

With the new facility in place, Cashalo will continue to invest in its core digital lending business, expand product offerings, and reach deeper into underserved Filipino communities.

“We look forward to continuing our investments in the Philippines to drive financial inclusion,” said Warren Hogarth, Co-Founder and CEO of Empower Finance. “Cashalo is uniquely positioned to lead the way in delivering scalable, data-driven credit solutions that truly make a difference in people’s lives.”

To learn more, visit cashalo.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

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Mega Prime Foods Celebrates 50 Years of Nourishing Filipino Families

Mega Prime Foods Celebrates 50 Years of Nourishing Filipino Families

Thursday, June 12, 2025

Staying true to its commitment to providing fresh offerings for generations to come

Mega Prime Foods, Inc. (MPFI) marked 50 years of nurturing purpose, uplifting lives and trusting God by honoring their employees, partners and friends at a grand gala night. The occasion underscored the journey of Mega Prime Foods, which began as a small fishing company in Bicol in 1975 to becoming the maker of the country’s #1 sardines brand Mega Sardines.

“What we had was a big dream, a vision: to provide quality food to Filipino homes. Eventually, we moved to Zamboanga, where we supplied fish to Manila canneries. Slowly but surely, with faith and hard work, we grew. Hindi naging madali—but with God’s grace and the dedication of many, we endured,” recounted William Tiu Lim, Mega Prime Foods Founder and Chairman. “Mega has come a long way, but our core remains the same. We are still rooted in the values that shaped us: being God-centered, showing malasakit, thinking innovatively, serving our customers well, and acting with integrity. And now, I feel proud seeing the next generation lead—bringing bold ideas while keeping our values alive.”

Speaking on "The Heart of the Catch: 50 Mega Lessons on Business, Life and Faith”, a memoir on the journey of Mega Prime Foods, Mr. Tiu Lim said that “this book captures the most meaningful lessons we've learned in the last 50 years, drawn from real experiences, real people, and real challenges. I hope this book becomes not just a record of where we've been, but an inspiration for where others can go—with faith, grit, and heart.”

From Challenger to Champion

When Mega Sardines first entered the market, it faced stiff competition from 26 established brands. Today, it’s hard to imagine a canned goods section in the Philippines without Mega Sardines. The brand captured a 26% market share in 2023, ahead of its closest competitors with 18% and 15% shares, respectively.

“I walked into this company 26 years ago, when our sardines line was still a bold idea. We were up against giants in a crowded, commoditized market. But we didn’t give up. We pushed forward — with conviction, with purpose, and with unshakable faith," stated Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, MPFI President and CEO. “Fifteen years later, we became the number one sardines brand in the Philippines. Not because we had the biggest resources but because we had the biggest heart — the heart of our fishermen, our employees, our suppliers, our banking partners, our distributors and our retail network. That’s what built Mega.”

Over the years, MPFI has expanded its portfolio to include over 200 SKUs. This includes well-loved staples Mega Mackerel, Mega Tuna, Mama Tuna, Mega Squid, Mega Prime Quality fruits and vegetables, Primo Sparkling Juice, and Jimm’s Coffee Mix.

“This year, we’re setting our sights higher—with a bold yet attainable goal of capturing an additional five to ten percentage points in canned sardines market share, bringing us to at least 30% by the end of 2025,” said Marvin Tiu Lim, MPFI Chief Growth and Development Officer.

The company is eyeing international growth as well, noting that the Department of Trade and Industry has identified the Middle East and North Africa food market to nearly double from USD 92.48 billion in 2024 to USD 189.87 billion by 2032

Speaking at the gala celebration, Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque underscored the critical role of the trade and manufacturing sectors—industries in which Mega Prime Foods Inc. plays a significant part. “[The Philippines] outdid [its foreign trade and international investment] the year before by 32%. [And] this one is really [very] important to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to help Filipinos stay here in the country and not be away from their families,” she noted, highlighting the broader national impact of continued industry growth. Expressing strong support for Mega Prime Foods Inc., she added, “On behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry, I send my warmest congratulations to Mega Prime Foods Inc. As Mega expands its reach to the Middle East, the United States, and Europe, we assure you that the government's continued support will always be there.”

People and Purpose

The celebration also honored the “Ka-Mega” community: from the fishermen who catch the freshest fish to the factory workers, office staff, and sales teams who bring products to life and reach every community. Mega Prime Foods currently employs over 5,000 individuals across its operations. 

Sonar Boat Captain Aladino Pandes reflects on his 27 years with Mega as a fulfilling journey: “Not just for me but for everyone—here, we’re more than co-workers, we’re family.”

Fellow Captain Edsel Baldomero shares the same sentiment. “I started as a crewman, what we used to call a Murami. Captain Pandes mentored me until I became a captain myself,” he said, adding that Mega provided him with a stable livelihood and the means to secure his family’s future. “With Mega’s support, I never felt alone. I was able to send my child to college, and our families know they can always count on the company.”

Roan Cardenas, now a Fish Preservation and Distribution Supervisor, takes pride in her growth at Mega. “I started 13 years ago as a factory filler. Today, I make sure the fish delivered to canning are of top quality—thanks to a company that believes in developing its people.”

More than just a food company, Mega Prime Foods has remained steadfast in its commitment to nation-building through impactful, sustained community programs.

“It was never just about effort. Everything we have—our business, our people, our progress—has always been by His grace. We have been blessed, and because of that, we are called to be a blessing. That’s the heart behind the Mega Tiu Lim Foundation: a belief that every Filipino deserves access to nutrition and livelihood, so they can build better lives," highlighted Mark Tiu Lim, MPFI Chief Spiritual and People Officer.

Since 2019, Mega Bigay Sustansya, in partnership with Reach Out Feed PH, DOST-FNRI, DSWD, and DepEd, has served nearly 500,000 nutritious meals to over 1,000 children, resulting in measurable improvements in child health and nutrition.

Through the Mega Malasakit Mission, Mega Prime Foods brings its advocacy to grassroots communities—visiting barangays across the country to deliver nutrition, education, and joy. These on-ground efforts showcase the versatility and nourishment of its products while building lasting connections with families.

“Our commitment to sustainability is embedded in our operations. From adopting renewable energy and reducing operational waste, to launching the Mega Ocean Cleanup, we continue to act as responsible stewards of the environment, honoring our role in protecting God’s creation,” added Malcolm Tiu Lim, MPFI Chief Technical and Innovations Officer.

In addition, art centerpieces showcased at the gala are available for purchase, with proceeds directly supporting the Mega Ocean Clean-Up, an initiative that involves sweeping the sea surface for garbage by attaching nets to the company’s fishing vessels and bringing the collected waste back to land.

Mega Milyonaryo Promo Launched

Mega Milyonaryo, a special anniversary promo from MPFI that gives back to loyal customers, was also launched at the event. With a total prize pool of ₱50 million, the company says it’s their way of thanking the millions of Filipinos who have supported their brands over the years.

Bringing more excitement to the Mega Milyonaryo promo was the Megastar herself, Sharon Cuneta. The well-loved icon is now the celebrity endorser of Mega Milyonaryo and Mega Sardines. She also lent her voice to “Pangako ng Mega,” the featured song in the company’s anniversary video, which was inspired by her iconic hit, Kahit Maputi na ang Buhok Ko. Coco Martin, star of Ang Probinsyano and Batang Quiapo, was also announced the face of Jimm’s Coffee Mix.

Together, Sharon and Coco form a powerhouse duo that brings heart, heritage, and star power to every Filipino table.

50 Mega Years is more than just a milestone. It’s a heartfelt celebration of Mega Prime Foods Inc.’s journey, built on the trust and loyalty of Filipino families and communities. This anniversary is not only a reflection of the company’s achievements over the past five decades, but also a way of giving back—sharing the success with those who made it possible. With deep gratitude, Mega renews its commitment to providing fresh, high-quality products to every table, staying true to its promise of service, care, and excellence for generations to come.

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IHG Hotels & Resorts Set New Standards with Growing Commitment to Plant-Based Menus in the Philippines

IHG Hotels & Resorts Set New Standards with Growing Commitment to Plant-Based Menus in the Philippines

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

IHG Properties Across Manila, Makati, Cebu, and Batangas Establish Comprehensive Sustainable Dining Initiative

IHG Hotels & Resorts properties across the Philippines have won praise today from international NGO Lever Foundation for their commitment to making 30% of all menu offerings plant-based, with implementation timelines spanning 2025 to 2027. The policy pledge by IHG hotels across the country—Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria, Holiday Inn Cebu City, Holiday Inn & Suites Batangas Lima Park, and Holiday Inn & Suites Makati—represents one of the most comprehensive plant-based dining initiative undertaken by a major international hotel group in the Philippines. The initiative spans multiple dining venues at the properties including restaurants, room service menus, and banquet offerings.

"Our commitment to increasing plant-based options to 30% across our menus at Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria by 2025 reflects our dedication to sustainable hospitality and responsible dining," said Patria Puyat, Cluster General Manager at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria and Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria. "This initiative aligns with our global 'Journey to Tomorrow' sustainability program and reflects our determination to reduce our environmental footprint while meeting the evolving preferences of today's conscious travelers."

"Holiday Inn Cebu City is fully committed to achieving the 30% plant-based menu target by 2025 as part of our accelerated sustainability roadmap," said Gibeth Gloria, General Manager of Holiday Inn Cebu City. "This measurable commitment allows us to reduce our ecological footprint while enhancing our culinary offerings significantly. By expanding plant-based options across our dining venues, we're addressing growing guest demand for sustainable choices while advancing IHG's environmental leadership in the Philippine hospitality sector."

"We've always believed that great hospitality is about making people feel cared for, not just through comfort, but through the choices we offer,” said Andy Belmonte, General Manager of Holiday Inn & Suites Makati. “Expanding our menus to include 30% plant-based dishes by the end of 2027 is one way to support our guests' well-being while caring for the planet. It's a meaningful step for us as part of the Makati community, where modern living and conscious choices go hand in hand."

“We have long advocated for plant-based food, led by our Executive Chef, Mike Santiago. This commitment reflects our ongoing efforts to promote healthier, more sustainable dining experiences, and our openness to expanding plant-based offerings in the years ahead,” said Mariesol Saballa, Hotel Manager of Holiday Inn & Suites Batangas Lima Park. “We believe in the power of conscious food choices, and formalizing this direction reinforces the values we are proud to uphold.”

"It's inspiring to see hospitality brands like IHG Philippines recognizing that offering more plant-based choices represents meaningful progress toward a more thoughtful and forward-looking guest experience," said Marielle Lagulay, Sustainability Program Manager at Lever Foundation. "This commitment demonstrates how the industry can evolve with purpose, integrating care for people and the planet with the quality and comfort guests expect. We hope IHG Philippines’ great initiative inspires other hospitality groups to pursue similar commitments, understanding that thoughtful changes in food service can generate substantial positive impact."

Research shows that plant-based proteins generate up to 90% lower greenhouse gas emissions and require up to 90% less land and water use than animal proteins. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) found that plant-based foods also generate approximately 50% less food waste than meat and dairy products.

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Visa and Maya launch cross-border funding solution for foreign-issued Visa cards

Visa and Maya launch cross-border funding solution for foreign-issued Visa cards

Launch of Visa Cross-border Account Funding Transaction (AFT) in Maya to enable payments flexibility and convenience for tourists, expatriates, overseas Filipino workers, and freelancers

Visa, a world leader in digital payments, and Maya, the Philippines’ leading digital bank and fintech ecosystem, are collaborating to enable cross-border account funding transactions (AFT) in the Maya app. This innovative partnership allows Maya users to seamlessly pull funds from foreign-issued Visa cards and load them directly into their Maya accounts, expanding payments flexibility.

With this new feature, Maya users can easily access and transfer funds from Visa cards issued overseas, offering a streamlined solution for expatriates, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), and global travelers who need to manage their finances across borders. Upon cashing in from their foreign-issued Visa cards, Maya users can now spend, save, and even invest their money in the Philippines through the Maya app.

“Our longstanding partnership with Maya continues to grow from strength to strength, and with this latest collaboration, we help make digital payments even more flexible. By enabling funding transactions from foreign-issued Visa cards, we provide Maya users with the power and convenience to manage their finances effortlessly, while ensuring seamless and secure transactions. This connects them to countless possibilities through their Maya accounts,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Visa Country Manager for the Philippines.

Maya, through its robust fintech ecosystem, continues to drive digital payments growth in the country. Visa has previously recognized Maya for processing the highest e-commerce and contactless payments volumes in the Philippines from 2021 to 2024, as well as for being the top acquirer for merchant transaction volume. This collaboration further underscores their commitment to advance payments innovation while improving user experience.

“With this new feature, we’re making it easier for Filipinos and OFWs to move money from their Visa cards abroad straight into their Maya wallets. Maya has redefined how we spend, save, and invest—and we’re pleased to bring the same ease and flexibility to cross-border payments,” said Khurram Malik, Group Chief Commercial Officer of Maya.

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A Slice of Success: Cake2Go Kicks Off Season 2 of PLDT Enterprise’s “ROI’d to Success” on Hustleshare Podcast

A Slice of Success: Cake2Go Kicks Off Season 2 of PLDT Enterprise’s “ROI’d to Success” on Hustleshare Podcast

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

How a family-run cake brand baked innovation into its business with help from PLDT Enterprise

ROI’d to Success is back for a second season—and it’s coming in hot with a fresh batch of entrepreneurial inspiration. Now produced in collaboration with the Hustleshare podcast, the new season kicks off with Cake2Go, a family-run cake business that has become one of the country’s pioneers in hotline-based, delivery-first cake services.

This new episode sets the tone for Season 2 of ROI’d to Success, a series created by PLDT Enterprise to shine a spotlight on executives and entrepreneurs who have harnessed digital tools to fuel their business’ growth, scale up operations, and turn resilience into return on investment.

“With ROI’d to Success, we want to empower enterprises of all sizes by showing how the right digital solutions can create real, measurable impact,” said the Chet Alviz, Vice President and Head of Marketing, PLDT Enterprise. “Season 1 showed us that these transformations are not only possible—they're happening. And Season 2 continues that momentum with even more inspiring stories.”

From Humble Kitchen to Digital Breakthrough

Founded in 2005 by Biskwit Co., Cake2Go started as a modest kitchen venture focused on quick, reliable cake delivery—a niche that was still emerging in the early 2000s. With a hotline-based model and an emphasis on convenience, the brand carved out a sweet spot in the market long before food delivery apps became the norm.

“As early as 2005, we saw a gap in the market for a takeout and delivery cake shop that made it easy for people to just stop by or call in for something sweet,” said Marilen Yap, Cake2Go Co-Founder and Part-Owner. “We aren’t your typical bakeshop; we are actually the pioneers in this kind of setup. We handled everything ourselves at the start, and by December of that first year, the demand had grown so fast that Luis was already stuck in the kitchen full-time. It’s been quite a ride.”

Today, Cake2Go operates over a dozen branches across Metro Manila and is known for bestsellers like the T-Overload, Dulce De Leche Cheesecake, and Mango Peach Tiramisu. But behind every slice of success is a story of hustle, adaptation, and digital evolution.

In the ROI’d to Success episode, Cake2Go Co-Founder and Part-Owner Luis Mesina shares how the business turned to PLDT Enterprise to modernize its backend, optimize operations, and ensure its hotline systems could scale with demand—especially during the pandemic, when digital reliability became a lifeline for many businesses.

“We’ve always been a delivery-based business. PLDT Enterprise gave us the infrastructure to grow, to serve more customers, and to remain reliable when our customers needed us the most,” said Mesina.

“PLDT Enterprise’s digital solutions provide easier opportunities. They help businesses hit their desired market faster, and you get your ROI 20–30% faster,” he added.

Thanks to connectivity solutions like broadband and business-grade hotline support, Cake2Go was able to sustain high volumes of orders, improve customer experience, and continue delivering joy to homes across the metro.

Committed to Empowering and Elevating Entrepreneurs, One Story at a Time

ROI’d to Success Season 2 builds on the success of the first season and will continue to be told in real voices through the Hustleshare platform, highlighting the tangible ways PLDT Enterprise supports businesses in navigating an increasingly digital world.

“It’s more than just technology—it’s about creating a meaningful connection between innovation and impact,” Alviz added. “We’re proud to help businesses like Cake2Go scale with confidence and share these stories to inspire others on similar journeys.”

New episodes of ROI’d to Success Season 2 will roll out soon, featuring more executives and entrepreneurs who have transformed their businesses with the help of PLDT Enterprise’s suite of digital solutions.

Catch the Cake2Go episode now on Hustleshare’s Spotify and follow PLDT Enterprise on social media for more stories of digital breakthroughs from businesses across the country.

To discover the digital solutions that can drive your business growth like Cake2Go, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise_ROId_cake2go_pr

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LBC Express Empowers Filipino Entrepreneurs with Up to 60% Off Shipping Through ‘LBC BOSS’ Program

LBC Express Empowers Filipino Entrepreneurs with Up to 60% Off Shipping Through ‘LBC BOSS’ Program

Monday, June 9, 2025

LBC Express, the Philippines trusted logistics and money services provider, officially launches LBC BOSS (Bulk Order Sulit Sending), a new shipping program built to support the growing community of online sellers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the Philippines.

The initiative underscores LBC’s continued commitment to uplift Filipino entrepreneurs, offering up to 60% off shipping rates, starting with a minimum of 15 parcels per month. Members also gain access to free doorstep pick-up, dedicated customer support, and exclusive business perks tailored to their needs.

“Filipinos have always been entrepreneurial — from traditional markets to today’s digital platforms,” said Oliver L. Valentin, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Philippine Branch Operations at LBC Express Inc.

“LBC BOSS was built to empower that spirit. It is a program made specifically for the modern Filipino seller — the ones building their own brands from home, pursuing dreams through hard work, and serving their communities with heart. LBC is here to support them with the tools, savings, and reliability they deserve,” he added.

With the steady rise of e-commerce, social selling, and marketplace platforms, LBC BOSS comes at a pivotal moment for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The program reflects LBC’s continued commitment from serving Filipinos overseas to championing local entrepreneurs as they build, scale, and thrive.

Whether shipping curated fashion pieces, handcrafted goods, baked treats, or skincare essentials, sellers can rely on LBC BOSS as a partner that understands both the speed and demands behind every small business.

As LBC approaches its 75th anniversary, the launch of LBC BOSS reflects the company’s enduring mission to move lives, uplift communities, and deliver value beyond logistics.

Ready to boost your business? Sign up and become an LBC BOSS today!

To learn more, visit LBC Express’ official website or follow their social media pages for the latest updates.

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US chamber honors TP’s community efforts in the Philippines

US chamber honors TP’s community efforts in the Philippines

Thursday, June 5, 2025

Global leader in digital business services, TP, has been recognized and awarded with the Gold Award for Community Support and Engagement at the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, Inc. (AmCham) Corporate Social Impact Awards. The recognition spotlights the sustained community efforts of TP’s official corporate social responsibility arm, Citizen of the World (COTW) Foundation, in the Philippines.

AmCham is one of the oldest and most influential business organizations in the country from the time of its founding in 1902. Its annual Corporate Social Impact Awards is an industry cornerstone, recognizing and celebrating outstanding organizations and individuals who have demonstrated exemplary commitment to creating positive change through impactful social initiatives beyond profit-making.

“The AmCham Corporate Social Impact award affirms TP’s sustained mission to be a Force for Good in the Philippines and around the world. Together with COTW and our partners in humanitarian initiatives, we will continue to transform lives and communities by bringing hope, security, and opportunities to those who are most in need,” said Jeffrey Johnson, Chief People Officer of TP in the Philippines and COTW PH President.

Established in 2006, COTW focuses on helping underserved and vulnerable sectors of society, especially children and the elderly, by mobilizing TP’s leaders, clients, employees, and partners in humanitarian and cause-oriented initiatives.

In 2024 alone, COTW generated at least Php9 million ($161,000) in donations from employees, external donation drives, its e-commerce platform (COTW Store), and partnerships. Employee engagement is the primary driver of COTW's sustained success as the foundation elevates TP employees’ pride, loyalty, and satisfaction. COTW has also successfully fostered a culture of volunteerism with 16,490 volunteer hours (nearly 60,000 volunteer hours from 2009 to 2024) dedicated to CSR efforts across 27 sites.

Through COTW, over 24,000 lives through 43 community activities benefited in 2024. These activities range from supporting chronically ill children, providing care for abandoned children, to aid for the elderly.

Apart from the aforementioned CSR initiatives, COTW engages in long-term collaborations to ensure sustainable results, such as supporting the Life Project 4 Youth (LP4Y) training centers that equip vulnerable youth with skills for employment. The project has mobilized Php5,000,000 in donations (Php10 million in total) and impacted 944 vulnerable youths in rural areas in 2024.

TP likewise continues its long-term support to the TP Village in Tanay, Rizal, providing housing units, community centers, and ongoing support for 100 families.

Furthermore, COTW’s Citizen of the Planet (COTP) initiative, has supported TP in its environmental initiatives, including tree planting, coastal/river cleanups, and energy conservation efforts such as Monthly Earth Hour. COTW greatly contributed to TP’s sustainable achievements in 2024, notably a 46% reduction in carbon emissions per employee in its operations in the Philippines.

“This latest award is a huge honor which cements our place further not only in the IT-BPM industry, but in the realm of social progress and national development as well. We take pride in what we do—from the selfless efforts made by COTW leaders and volunteers to the ongoing success of our programs and initiatives, such as our partnerships with LP4Y and the residents of our TP Village,” said Chief Executive Officer of TP in the Philippines Rahul Jolly.

COTW has successfully upheld, and continues to uphold, TP’s commitment to being a Force of Good for all the communities in which it operates. TP in the Philippines has consistently earned accolades from industry and government partners for its high-tech, high-touch, and high-standards programs. Earlier this year, the TP Skills Training to Employment Program (TP STEP) in partnership with the city government of Pasig was recognized as a Grand Anvil Finalist and a Gold Anvil awardee by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines. TP STEP equips individuals from marginalized groups and communities with the necessary skills to thrive in the Information Technology and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) industry.

Recently, TP in the Philippines was awarded in the Top Best Workplace in the Philippines list for the fourth consecutive year. The company is the first and most consistently certified Great Place to Work® organization in the Philippines for the past seven consecutive years since 2018.

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SM Supermalls Named Philippines’ Strongest Brand for 2025 by Brand Finance

SM Supermalls Named Philippines’ Strongest Brand for 2025 by Brand Finance

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

SM Supermalls has once again proven its leadership in the retail industry by being named the Philippines’ Strongest Brand for 2025 by Brand Finance, the world’s foremost brand valuation consultancy. With a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 95.0 out of 100, the highest among all Philippine brands, SM Supermalls is setting new benchmarks in brand trust, innovation, and customer experience.

Unmatched Brand Strength in the Philippines

While BDO Unibank retained the top spot in overall brand valuation for the second year, SM Supermalls secured the #1 ranking in brand strength, signaling its unrivaled reputation and impact on consumers and stakeholders alike.

This accolade reflects SM Supermalls’ leadership in marketing excellence, digital transformation, and community-centered initiatives, making it a powerhouse in the country's ever-evolving retail landscape.

“SM Supermalls’ achievement as the strongest Filipino brand this year symbolizes success built on scale, innovation, and customer experience,” said Alex Haigh, Managing Director of Brand Finance Asia-Pacific. “Its role in commerce and the community makes it a brand deeply embedded in the nation’s cultural fabric.”

Fueling Growth Through Purpose and Innovation

SM Supermalls continues to push boundaries by delivering exceptional retail experiences and building vibrant communities through purpose-driven campaigns. From integrating digital innovations to reimagining mall spaces, the brand has consistently adapted to meet the needs of Filipino consumers.

“Being named the Philippines’ strongest brand affirms the passion and dedication of our SM family,” said Steven T. Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “Our greatest reward is knowing that we make people’s lives brighter every day that’s what truly matters.”

Why This Recognition Matters

The Brand Finance Global 500 ranking is based on rigorous evaluation standards, including ISO 10668 (Brand Valuation) and ISO 20671 (Brand Evaluation), making it one of the most credible indicators of brand performance worldwide. For investors, partners, and tenants, this recognition reaffirms SM Supermalls as a trusted growth partner and a catalyst for inclusive development.

SM Supermalls: More Than Just Retail

More than just a place to shop, SM Supermalls has become a symbol of hope, progress, and Filipino pride. It empowers communities, supports local enterprises, and leads the way in creating sustainable, people-centric developments.

With a network that continues to grow across the country, SM Supermalls proves that true brand strength lies in how it serves, uplifts, and inspires the people it touches every day.

SM Supermalls also extends its congratulations to BDO, which maintained its position as the Philippines’ most valuable brand for the second year in a row, a testament to the strength and stability of the SM Group across multiple sectors.

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Visa strengthens financial inclusion for Filipino SMEs with innovative payment solutions

Visa strengthens financial inclusion for Filipino SMEs with innovative payment solutions

Saturday, May 31, 2025

Visa, a world leader in digital payments is looking to expand support for Filipino small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which, despite their economic contribution, still face significant barriers to financial inclusion and growth. While making up more than 99% of all business enterprises in the country and generating 66% of total employment, SMEs in the Philippines continue to face significant challenges, including access to funding.

A global funding gap

Visa's recent study reveals significant challenges faced by SMEs, particularly in accessing capital, with these businesses receiving less than 10% of total corporate loans. Cash flow concerns are prevalent, as 44% of SMEs highlight it as a top issue, and over half report having reserves that would last less than six months. Additionally, other hurdles include device and hardware cost for acceptance and lengthy application processes for card holders. Fraud prevention was also cited as a key concern by 33% of those accepting cards.

The financial landscape further complicates these challenges, with the International Finance Corporation reporting a $5.2 trillion global funding gap for SMEs annually, predominantly in East Asia and the Pacific. The Philippines exemplifies this issue, with a $221-billion funding demand against a $15-billion supply. Despite mandates to increase SME lending, utilization remains low due to informal business practices, limited credit history, and financial literacy gaps.

Women-led SMEs across the region face additional social barriers, including gender bias in lending and limited property rights, which restrict their ability to use financial collateral. Moreover, the added burden of household responsibilities can hinder their capacity to effectively manage and expand their businesses. However, Visa's research shows promising outcomes, revealing that 51% of women-led SMEs and 56% of micro-businesses in the Philippines experienced revenue growth through the adoption of digital payments.

Innovation in SME support and funding

Recognizing the crucial role SMEs play in economic development, Visa, through the Visa Foundation, previously launched a $100-million small business accelerator initiative aimed at advancing digital financial inclusion, stimulating job creation, and increasing access to capital for SMEs in Asia Pacific, including the Philippines.

This program has reached an estimated 29.6 million SMES in the region, including 10.9 million women-led SMEs. The program is complemented by Visa’s Practical Business Skills program, which equips SME owners with essential knowledge in cash flow management, digital payment integration, and financial planning.

Visa has been actively working with local partners to launch innovative products designed to expand financial inclusion for SMEs. Recently, it signed a new deal with CIMB Bank Philippines to launch a new Visa Business Debit Card. Designed to cater to SME owners, the card will be linked to a high interest business savings account, where business owners can enjoy zero fees, free fund transfers, insurance product offers, as well as a revolving credit facility that they can maximize to grow their business.

“SMEs form the backbone of our economy and supporting them helps contribute to overall economic growth. We continue to work with local partners to bring financial products and solutions responsive to their unique needs, and we share the government’s vision to help SMEs unlock their full potential through innovation and resilience,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Visa Country Manager for the Philippines.

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EastWest Wins Gold for People-First HR Tech at 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards

EastWest Wins Gold for People-First HR Tech at 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards

EastWest has been awarded a Gold Stevie® Award for Excellence in Innovative Use of Technology in Human Resources at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards, recognizing the bank’s people-led, tech-powered transformation in HR.

Presented annually, the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards are the only regional business awards program that recognizes workplace innovation across 29 countries. EastWest received the honor during the gala ceremony held on May 13, 2025 in Seoul, South Korea.

People-Led Automation, Meaningful Results

This recognition highlights the success of EastWest’s People Advantage Gameplan, a two-year transformation strategy that combined grassroots automation across the employee lifecycle with authentic employee engagement and behavioral insights.

Using Microsoft Power Platform tools, EastWest’s HR team, without external vendors, designed and deployed digital solutions that streamlined onboarding, people dashboard and analytics, wellness, employee loans, recognition, and offboarding.

These achievements reflect a modern, scalable, and employee-centered approach to HR transformation.

The results were both human and measurable:

• +8-point increase in Employee Satisfaction: from 69% in 2022 to 77% in 2024, with 93% of employees expressing intent to stay in the next two years

• +4-point boost in Engagement: from 73% in 2022 to 77% in 2024.

• 18% net headcount growth, driven by the highest hiring levels in over a decade

• Attrition lowered by 10 percentage points, aligning with industry standards

Human Connection at the Core

Beyond tools and technology, EastWest placed high value on genuine employee connection. The initiative featured listening sessions and conversations with the CEO, and employee-led storytelling campaigns that amplified authenticity across the organization.

“We’ve always believed that technology is central in making people-centered experiences across the employee lifecycle happen,” said Atty. Juan Alfonso “Alfie” Suarez, Chief People, Corporate Services, and Sustainability Officer at EastWest. “This recognition inspires us to do better, be better, and take our employees, customers and stakeholders further”.

A Future-Ready HR Model

EastWest continues to lead with a passion for customer centricity, a drive for changing things for the better, and a focus on shared benefit with people at the center and technology as an enabler.

For more information on EastWest’s talent innovation and employee experience programs, visit www.eastwestbanker.com.

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Three Simple Ways to Boost Your Business Efficiency

Three Simple Ways to Boost Your Business Efficiency

Friday, May 30, 2025

From payroll to payments - streamline and simplify your business operations with PSBank

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, managing and growing a business is not easy.

From overseeing payroll to ensuring bills, suppliers, and client payments are settled on time, managing these responsibilities can quickly become overwhelming.

Without the right tools or support, it’s easy to fall into operational pitfalls that slow your business down. To help you stay on top of your game, here are three ways to optimize your business operations with help of the right banking partner like PSBank.

1. Simplify Payroll: Manage It Online, Not Manually

No matter the size of your workforce, manually processing payroll twice a month can be both time-consuming and prone to errors. It’s a critical responsibility that adds to the already demanding load business owners carry.

With PSBank, payroll doesn’t have to be a hassle. Opening a Corporate Account gives you free access to Business Online Buddy (BOB), a platform designed to simplify business transactions for business owners.

Through PSBank’s BOB, business owners can disburse salaries directly to PSBank Payroll Accounts in just a few clicks. It’s a faster, safer, and more accurate way to handle payroll to give you and your team one less thing to worry about.

2. Stay On Track: Automate Your Payments

Day-to-day operations often involve making sure utilities, rent, and supplier payments are settled on time. But with so much to manage, it’s easy for dues to slip through the cracks—resulting in late fees and operational hiccups.

Stay on top of payments with PSBank’s BOB. You can set up Auto-Credit Arrangements and access a wide network of accredited billers. Whether it’s utility bills, rent, or recurring supplier payments, everything can be handled online to make sure that payments are on time every time. You can even schedule recurring payments, disburse bulk payouts to vendors, or collect payments from clients, reducing manual errors and minimizing delays.

3. Stay on Top of Cash Flow: Track Your Finances Anytime, Anywhere

Staying on top of business finances requires clear visibility and secure management. Without consolidated tracking, it’s easy to lose sight of your cash flow or mismanage business funds.

You can avoid this by monitoring accounts in real time and have access to up to three months’ worth of transaction history with PSBank’s BOB. For added security, PSBank’s BOB offers multi-step authorization and user access management, allowing role-based permissions for team members. This means full control over who can view and manage specific financial tasks—ensuring transparency and accountability.

Your Maaasahang Buddy for Growth

Grow your business by streamlining financial processes with PSBank. You can open a PSBank Corporate Account at your nearest branch to get started. Access to PSBank’s Business Online Buddy (BOB) is free for all PSBank Corporate Accountholders. Learn more at www.psbank.com.ph.

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Boomi Recognized as a Leader for the 11th Time in the 2025 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Integration Platform as a Service

Boomi Recognized as a Leader for the 11th Time in the 2025 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Integration Platform as a Service

Thursday, May 29, 2025

Boomi Believes Its Leadership in AI, API Management, and Data Management Advancements Will Drive Strong Customer and Partner Momentum

Boomi™, the leader in AI-driven automation, announced it has been recognized as a Leader in the 2025 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Integration Platform as a Service (iPaaS), for the 11th consecutive time – the longest in the report’s history.

In our opinion, Boomi’s continued industry recognition reflects its unwavering commitment to innovation, customer success, and ecosystem growth. Over the past year, Boomi has accelerated its investments in AI agent management, API management, and data management to help enterprises connect everything with one platform and drive intelligent automation at scale.

Key advancements include:

Launch of Boomi Agentstudio for AI Agent Management: Boomi recently introduced the only full agent lifecycle management solution that allows organizations to simply design, govern, and orchestrate all AI agents at scale, helping unlock hyperproductivity responsibly.

Comprehensive API Management Capabilities: Boomi’s expanded API Management capabilities provide cloud-scale APIM and address the growing problem of API sprawl through federated governance of all APIs — adding security, visibility, and value across the enterprise.

Modern Data Integration: With the addition of Boomi Data Integration (formerly Rivery), customers can leverage a single platform for integrating apps, data, APIs, and AI agents. Boomi Data Integration complements existing Boomi DataHub capabilities that provide synchronization and governance as the foundation for trusted data.

Customer and Partner Momentum Accelerates

With more than 23,000 customers globally, Boomi continues to be the trusted integration and automation partner for enterprises across industries, including customers like Lego, Tropicana, and Moderna, who rely on Boomi to connect and automate their business-critical applications and data.

Boomi’s thriving partner network has also seen significant expansion, with leading global system integrators (GSIs), independent software vendors (ISVs), and cloud hyperscalers deepening their collaboration with Boomi to deliver cutting-edge integration and automation solutions. Boomi’s recent strategic agreements with AWS and ServiceNow enhance customer experiences through AI-powered self-service solutions.

A Proven Leader in Integration and Automation

“As organizations continue their journey to becoming AI-driven enterprises, integration and automation have never been more critical,” said Steve Lucas, Chairman and CEO at Boomi. “I believe Boomi’s continued recognition as a Leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for iPaaS underscores our relentless focus on innovation and our commitment to enabling our customers and partners to achieve their digital transformation goals. We are honored to be a Leader in this category and remain dedicated to delivering the most advanced, AI-enabled automation platform on the market.”

View the 2025 Gartner Magic Quadrant for iPaaS here.

Additional Resources

See why Boomi was recognized as a leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for iPaaS here

Follow Boomi on X, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube

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Coca-Cola Philippines Expands PET Bottle Collection Program to Help Strengthen Recycling Efforts

Coca-Cola Philippines Expands PET Bottle Collection Program to Help Strengthen Recycling Efforts

Monday, May 26, 2025

Coca-Cola Philippines builds on its ongoing sustainability efforts with the expanded rollout of its ‘Tapon to Ipon’ PET bottle collection program, marking an important step towards supporting local bottle collection infrastructure and helping accelerate PET bottle recovery efforts across communities.

The expanded Tapon to Ipon program consolidates Coca-Cola Philippines’ various bottle collection programs including the Tindahan Extra Mile (TEM) initiative into one program. With over 6,000 collection hubs now in operation nationwide, the initiative aims to make recycling drop off points more accessible to communities across the Philippines.

The initiative was officially relaunched with a community activation event on April 29, 2025, at Terra 28th in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), highlighting the importance of strong local engagement.

“Coca-Cola Philippines continues to innovate and improve our recycling systems to help address plastic waste,” said Tony del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines. “By expanding Tapon to Ipon, we are increasing collection and recycling access and reinforcing our commitment to partnerships that help deliver positive impact in local communities.”

Originally launched in 2021 by Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP), formerly Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc. (CCBPI), Tapon to Ipon has engaged sari-sari store owners, customers, government agencies, and local governments to recover post-consumer clear PET bottles.

“We are grateful to all our partners who continue to support collective environmental action,” said Gareth McGeown, CEO and President of CCEAP. “Strengthening collection and recycling infrastructure has always been a key goal of Tapon to Ipon, and its expansion underscores our shared mission to empower communities and create a more sustainable future for Filipinos.”

The program invites consumers to exchange used PET bottles—regardless of brand—for Coca-Cola product rewards at designated collection hubs, including sari-sari stores and special pop-up booths at major local events such as the Sinulog Festival in Cebu City and Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City.

The aim is to bring the collected bottles to PETValue Philippines, the country’s first food-grade bottle-to-bottle recycling facility located in General Trias, Cavite. PETValue Philippines, a joint venture between CCEAP and Indorama Ventures, plays a critical role in turning post-consumer PET bottles into new food-grade recycled PET (rPET) packaging.

To date, CCEAP has reached over 170 cities and municipalities nationwide. The program has also been recognized at the FMCG Asia Awards, Quill Awards, and Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, underscoring its significant contribution to promoting more sustainable practices and responsible waste management.

Incentivizing community recycling systems

As an expanded part of the program, which now incorporates the Tindahan Extra Mile program, sari-sari store and carinderia owners will also become empowered to be rewarded for their recycling efforts.

Implemented in partnership with Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies, Inc. (BEST) and the Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners (PASCO), participating micro-retailers collect PET plastic bottles and other recyclables from their communities and can earn points based on the volume of materials they gather. They can use these points to redeem cash or products through the bXTRA app.

Tapon to Ipon underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability. By partnering with micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), retailers, private organizations, and local government units, the company continues to build a strong network of collection hubs that make recycling more accessible and engaging for communities across the country.

Hundreds of collection points have been established across the Philippines to make recycling more accessible to communities. 

To find the nearest collection point, visit the interactive map at: https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/brands/coca-cola/sustainability

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Eastern Communications Honored for Innovation and Customer Excellence at 2025 Asia Pacific Stevie Awards

Eastern Communications Honored for Innovation and Customer Excellence at 2025 Asia Pacific Stevie Awards

Eastern Communications, the premier telecommunications and ICT solutions provider in the Philippines, earns global praise for its outstanding achievements at the 2025 Asia Pacific Stevie Awards, held at the Lotte Hotel in Seoul. The company proudly took home three prestigious awards, namely: Thought Leadership Campaign of the Year, Award for Innovation in Content Marketing/Branded Editorial, and Innovative Achievement in Customer Satisfaction.

The Stevie Awards are among the world’s most respected international business awards, recognizing achievements in various categories across the Asia Pacific region. This year's competition saw over 1,000 nominations from organizations across 23 markets, including Australia, mainland China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the United States, and more.

Driving Digital Literacy and Nation-Building

Eastern Communications' "Eastern Huddles" campaign, which won the Silver Stevie Award for Thought Leadership Campaign of the Year, addressed critical technological challenges faced by businesses in the Philippines between 2022 and 2024. These challenges included talent shortages in emerging technologies, cybersecurity threats, digital literacy gaps, and a lack of upskilling.

Through close collaboration with key industry associations and business chambers, Eastern launched the Eastern Huddle series, which has been a proven success since its first run. Through the thought leadership series, Eastern achieved a 30.1% penetration rate in 2024 (up from 25% in 2021) and garnered exceptional event satisfaction ratings (94% in 2024, compared to 83% in 2021).

Showcasing the Philippines' Hidden Gems Through Engaging Content

The "Eastern Explores" video campaign, which received the Bronze Stevie Award for Innovation in Content Marketing/Branded Editorial, was released in time for Eastern Communications' completion of the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) project. This joint undersea network infrastructure project aims to deliver robust internet connectivity to previously unconnected or underserved areas.

Eastern Communications strategically launched "Eastern Explores" to amplify the PDSCN news while supporting local tourism in its service areas: Cebu, Baguio, Iloilo, Pampanga, Bohol, Metro Manila, and Boracay. The seven-episode series showcased Filipino culture, history, cuisine, and pride through local festivals such as the Sinulog, Dinagyang, and Panagbenga festivals, aligning with Eastern's "Partners in Progress" campaign. The initiative aimed to increase brand visibility, support government tourism, and promote local businesses.

Excellence in Customer Experience

Eastern’s customer-centric initiatives were also recognized with the Bronze Stevie Award for Innovative Achievement in Customer Satisfaction. Forwarding its "high tech and high touch" promise, Eastern emphasizes personalized experiences and genuine human connections through its "Heart of Service" philosophy.

Eastern Communications' customer experience strategies were focused on creating a customer-first culture, championing efficiency, redefining customer excellence, and amplifying brand love and loyalty.

These efforts have resulted in significant improvements, including a 5% increase in overall customer satisfaction and a 10% revenue increase among its loyalty program customers.

“These awards affirm Eastern’s continuous efforts in elevating its overall experience – not only through innovation, but also through meaningful partnerships and authentic customer engagement,” said Jed Estanislao, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer of Eastern Communications. “We owe this success to our Ka-Eastern people and, most importantly, to our loyal customers, who motivate us to exceed expectations this year and drive progress for Filipino communities and businesses through technology.”

Being recognized at the Asia Pacific Stevie Awards positions Eastern Communications among the leaders in the Philippine telecommunications industry, driven by its passion for innovation, nation-building, and exceptional customer service.

To learn more about Eastern Communications, please visit www.eastern.com.ph

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L'Oréal Marks Next Chapter in the Philippines with New Headquarters, Champions Sustainable Growth and Community Empowerment

L'Oréal Marks Next Chapter in the Philippines with New Headquarters, Champions Sustainable Growth and Community Empowerment

Sunday, May 18, 2025

L’Oréal Philippines’ leaders together with local government, NGO and corporate partners in driving inclusive growth.

L’Oréal Philippines marked a new chapter in its 36-year journey in the country, underscoring the essential role of the beauty sector and the company’s commitment to sustainable growth and community empowerment. The company inaugurated its new, future-fit headquarters at The Podium West Tower in Ortigas, Pasig City, and gathered over 350 government partners, business leaders, advocates, students and beneficiaries for their contribution and partnership in its social, environmental, and innovation-led commitments. Located on the 35th floor of a LEED GOLD Certified building, the headquarters uses 100% renewable energy and is home to innovative spaces such as the L’Oréal Academy, livestream rooms, and ergonomic and tech-enabled office spaces designed to boost collaboration, wellbeing and sustainability.

Beauty Industry's Role in Societal and Economic Transformation

L’Oréal Philippines’ “Sense of Purpose” event put the spotlight on the beauty industry’s contribution to societal and economic transformation. From local manufacturing and distribution to beauty salons, e-commerce, and social commerce, the beauty sector fuels job creation, wellness, and empowerment—especially among women and youth.

“We are not just inaugurating a new office—we are renewing our commitment to act with purpose and lead with impact,” said Yassine Bakkari, Country Managing Director of L’Oréal Philippines. “At L’Oréal, we believe that beauty is essential—to self-confidence, livelihood, sustainability, and progress. This headquarters is a testament of our commitment to providing “beauty for each”, empowering communities and championing sustainable business practices in the Philippines.”

Serving the Diverse Beauty Needs of Filipinos Through Beauty Tech

Philippines is a melting pot of beauty, drawing from a unique blend of indigenous traditions and cultural influences. The beauty standards and practices in the country continue to evolve and in this digital era, the celebration of natural beauty, diversity and representation has become more evident.

To bring the best of beauty innovations and experiences to Filipinos, L’Oréal draws from its “Beauty for Each” strategy powered by Beauty Tech, allowing for deeper personalization. At the “Sense of Purpose” event, the company showcased its Beauty Tech portfolio such as Lancôme Skin Screen that analyzes real skin condition in just 20 minutes, Kerastase K-Scan for scalp analysis and Kiehl’s Instant Skin Reader that uses a smart photo assessment technology to reveal personal skin concerns.

Rallying our Partners Towards a Circular Model

Recognizing the longstanding plastic pollution problem in the Philippines, L’Oréal has made bold strides to support the transition to a circular economy. In partnership with PCX Markets, L’Oreal has successfully recovered 875 metric tons of equivalent plastic waste since 2023, equal to the weight of ~150 jeepneys. Collected plastics are upcycled into outdoor furniture and PET flakes. Its Recycle for Rewards plastic collection initiative with Watsons also encourages consumers to return used beauty products in exchange for rewards.

Driving Inclusive Growth

Through programs like the Beauty For A Better Life’s Expert Hairdressing Training and E-Beauty Advisor Training, and Inclusive Sourcing program, L’Oréal has supported close to 3,000 Filipinos living in vulnerable conditions with beauty and digital education and livelihood opportunities.

“Our goal is to empower 10,000 Filipinos, especially women, by 2030 through our Beauty For A Better Life and Inclusive Sourcing programs, creating more livelihood opportunities in the beauty industry,” added Bakkari. “Our commitment is fueled by our partners who share the same passion in driving inclusive growth. We thank the local governments of Quezon City, Makati, Manila, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Pateros, Antipolo and Taguig, our corporate partners Watsons and TikTok, and our NGO partners SPARK! Philippines, Philippine Business for Social Progress (PSBP) and PCX Markets for their unwavering support over the years.”

L'Oreal believes in the transformative power of beauty to act as a catalyst for change in the Philippines. It continues to work with partners to fuel its mission: to create beauty that moves the Philippines.

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