LAC Adds MASQUELIER’S French Pine Bark Extract to Its Global Health Strategy

LAC Adds MASQUELIER’S French Pine Bark Extract to Its Global Health Strategy

Thursday, August 27, 2026

LAC Global, the health and wellness supplements business of Singapore-based V3 Group, has completed its acquisition of MASQUELIER’S® French Pine Bark Extract, bringing the intellectual property and scientific heritage behind the long-established botanical ingredient into its portfolio.

The deal gives LAC control of the patented technology associated with MASQUELIER’S® and adds a product platform with more than seven decades of research history. It also comes as LAC expands its retail and e-commerce operations across Asia and looks for additional opportunities in international markets.

The acquisition is therefore about more than adding another supplement to LAC's lineup. It gives the Singapore-based company ownership of a recognized ingredient platform while strengthening its position in a wellness market increasingly focused on preventive health and healthy ageing.

Why is MASQUELIER’S French Pine Bark Extract significant?

MASQUELIER’S French Pine Bark Extract is based on oligomeric proanthocyanidins, or OPCs, a group of plant compounds belonging to the broader polyphenol family.

French scientist Professor Jack Masquelier played a major role in the early research and development of OPC extracts. The history of the MASQUELIER’S ingredient traces back to research conducted in France in the mid-20th century, including work involving the bark of the French Maritime Pine.

The company behind the ingredient says its extraction process focuses on a specific composition of OPCs rather than simply producing a general pine bark extract. Its published materials also describe testing and quality controls designed to maintain consistency between batches.

That distinction matters in the supplement business because botanical ingredients can vary depending on the plant source, extraction process and composition. Scientific reviews have likewise noted that commercially available pine bark extracts are not necessarily identical and that evidence can vary across formulations and health outcomes.

What are OPCs?

Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) are naturally occurring plant compounds that are part of the proanthocyanidin family of polyphenols. They are studied for antioxidant activity and other biological effects. OPCs can occur in several plant sources, including grape seeds and pine bark.

For consumers, however, the term "antioxidant" should not automatically be interpreted as proof that a supplement prevents disease. Evidence for antioxidant supplements varies considerably depending on the specific compound, dose, formulation and health outcome being studied.

What does the acquisition mean for LAC?

For LAC, the acquisition provides an established ingredient platform that can be incorporated into its broader health and wellness portfolio.

According to the company, MASQUELIER’S French Pine Bark Extract has sold more than 250 million tablets to date. MASQUELIER’S® is also the originator and trademark holder of MASQUELIER’S® Anthogenol, an OPC supplement brand with a presence in Asia Pacific.

The move also fits into LAC's broader strategy of expanding beyond its original Singapore market.

LAC was established in 1997 and currently operates more than 250 branded stores across Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong and Vietnam, according to company information. Its distribution network also includes international markets.

The company said it has franchise operations in Mongolia, India, Indonesia and Thailand, while its products are available in selected markets outside Asia.

From retail expansion to intellectual property

The acquisition highlights a broader shift in how wellness companies can build their businesses.

Instead of relying entirely on developing new products internally, companies can expand by acquiring established brands, formulations or intellectual property. This can shorten the path to market while giving the acquiring company access to existing consumer recognition and research infrastructure.

For V3 Group, the transaction also strengthens the health and wellness component of a portfolio that spans several industries.

V3 Group founder and executive chairman Ron Sim said the acquisition brings European nutritional science into LAC while supporting the company's ambition to build a health and wellness business from Asia for global consumers.

Why Asia matters to LAC's expansion strategy

LAC's existing footprint gives the company a substantial base from which to grow.

Its physical stores provide direct access to consumers, while e-commerce allows the company to reach markets where establishing a full retail network may take longer.

The combination is particularly relevant in the supplements industry, where consumer trust can influence purchasing decisions. Physical retail allows consumers to interact with products and staff, while online channels make repeat purchases and cross-border access easier.

LAC's expansion also comes as wellness increasingly intersects with broader consumer concerns such as ageing, nutrition, fitness and preventive health.

However, growing demand does not remove the need for evidence. Consumers increasingly have access to health information online, making transparency around ingredients, clinical evidence, dosage and potential interactions more important.

What consumers should know about pine bark supplements

Research into pine bark extract has produced findings across several health areas, but the evidence should be interpreted carefully.

A 2020 Cochrane review examined 27 randomized controlled trials involving 1,641 participants across several chronic conditions. The researchers found that the studies varied substantially in quality, formulations and conditions studied, making broad conclusions difficult.

More recent research has continued to examine pine bark extract. A 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis covering 27 randomized trials and 1,685 participants reported improvements in several cardiometabolic measures, but the authors also called for larger, longer and higher-quality trials to confirm the findings.

That distinction is important. Research on pine bark extract in general should not automatically be treated as evidence for every commercial pine bark supplement or formulation.

Consumers should also remember that dietary supplements can interact with prescription medicines and other supplements. Health authorities recommend discussing supplement use with a doctor or pharmacist, particularly when a person is taking medication or undergoing medical treatment.

What comes next for LAC?

Following the acquisition, LAC plans to deepen its presence in existing markets while exploring further opportunities across Asia Pacific and internationally.

The company has identified preventive health, healthy ageing and everyday wellness as areas for continued product development.

For V3 Group, the strategy extends beyond geographic expansion. The company is combining an established Asian retail platform with intellectual property rooted in European nutritional research.

The bigger business question will be whether LAC can turn that combination into sustainable growth while maintaining scientific credibility as it enters more markets.

The bottom line

The LAC MASQUELIER’S French Pine Bark Extract acquisition marks a significant step in LAC Global's expansion from a regional supplement retailer into a broader health and wellness platform.

The deal brings an established botanical ingredient, intellectual property and decades of research history into LAC's portfolio. At the same time, the company's growing retail and e-commerce footprint gives it a platform for taking those products into more markets.

For consumers, the development is another sign of how the global wellness industry is evolving. Scientific heritage and brand recognition can help a supplement company grow, but long-term credibility will ultimately depend on product quality, transparent evidence and responsible health claims.

Read More

IWG Expands Philippine Flexible Workspace Network in 2026

IWG Expands Philippine Flexible Workspace Network in 2026

Thursday, August 13, 2026

The Philippine flexible workspace market is expanding beyond traditional business districts as International Workplace Group (IWG) prepares to open five new locations across the country in 2026.

The expansion includes four HQ and Regus centers in Bohol, Lapu-Lapu City, and Taguig, plus the Philippine debut of Humanly, IWG's workspace concept designed specifically for healthcare, wellness, beauty, therapy, and fitness professionals.

The move signals a broader shift in the flexible workspace sector. Instead of serving only companies looking for offices, workspace operators are increasingly developing specialized facilities for professionals and businesses that need flexible access to purpose-built spaces.

Where are IWG's new Philippine locations?

IWG's five announced Philippine locations are:

1. HQ Plaza Helena (Panglao Island, Bohol) -  Flexible workspace
2. Regus Island Central Mactan (Lapu-Lapu City) -  Flexible workspace
3. Regus Savya Financial Center (Arca South, Taguig) -  Flexible workspace
4. Regus Alveo Park Triangle Tower (Taguig City) -  Flexible workspace
5. Humanly APECO Super Health Center (Casiguran, Aurora) - Healthcare and wellness workspace

The locations give IWG a presence across established business districts, tourism-oriented areas, and a smaller provincial community.

That geographic spread is important because flexible work is no longer limited to Metro Manila's central business districts.

Why is IWG expanding outside major business districts?

The economics of office space have changed as companies adopt hybrid and distributed working arrangements.

Rather than maintaining large permanent offices for employees who may only work onsite part of the week, businesses can use flexible workspaces when they need additional capacity, meeting facilities, or professional locations.

The same principle applies to individual professionals.

A consultant, freelancer, startup, or healthcare practitioner may need a professional environment without wanting to commit to a conventional long-term lease.

IWG Philippines says it plans to add 29 locations nationwide and reach 76 centers by the end of 2026.

The company's expansion also reflects the growing importance of regional business hubs. For workers who live outside major urban centers, having professional workspace closer to home can reduce commuting time while giving businesses access to local talent.

What is Humanly, and how is it different from a co-working space?

Humanly is IWG's flexible workspace concept for healthcare, wellness, beauty, therapy, and fitness professionals.

Its first Philippine location at the APECO Super Health Center in Casiguran, Aurora, is designed around the practical requirements of these practitioners.

Instead of providing conventional desks and meeting rooms alone, the facility includes spaces such as:

• Private consultation rooms
• Therapy suites
• Treatment rooms
• Reception areas
• Specialist facilities for healthcare and wellness services

The concept addresses a different business problem from traditional co-working.

A healthcare professional, for example, needs more than a desk and Wi-Fi. They need a suitable environment for consultations and treatments, along with the professional setting expected by their clients.

Humanly allows practitioners to access these facilities without having to shoulder the full upfront cost of establishing a conventional clinic or studio.

Why could this model matter to healthcare and wellness businesses?

Traditional premises can require significant capital for rent deposits, fit-outs, equipment, utilities, reception areas, and ongoing maintenance.

A flexible model shifts some of those costs from capital expenditure toward more manageable operating expenses, depending on the practitioner's arrangement and usage.

For new practitioners and smaller businesses, that can lower one of the barriers to establishing a professional practice.

The model could also provide greater flexibility for practitioners who do not need a permanent facility every day.

However, specialized healthcare practices still need to comply with applicable professional, regulatory, licensing, privacy, and health-and-safety requirements. A flexible facility does not remove those obligations.

How is hybrid work changing Philippine real estate?

The expansion comes as companies reconsider how much permanent office space they actually need.

According to Colliers' 2026 Asia Pacific Workplace Insights Report, 82% of organizations in the Philippines are already operating under hybrid work models, while 32% plan to invest further in workplace upgrades over the following year.

That suggests the office is not disappearing. Instead, its purpose is changing.

Companies may need fewer traditional desks but greater access to meeting rooms, collaboration areas, client-facing spaces, and strategically located offices.

For commercial real estate, this creates an opportunity for flexible workspace operators to become part of a company's broader workplace strategy.

IWG also cites research showing that more than 83% of CEOs have policies allowing employees to work from more than one location.

What does the expansion mean for businesses?

For companies, flexible workspace can offer an alternative to committing capital to permanent office infrastructure.

This can be particularly relevant for businesses entering new cities or testing regional markets.

A company may establish a local presence through a flexible office before deciding whether a permanent facility makes commercial sense.

Flexible workspaces can also support:

• Market expansion — Businesses can establish a presence in new locations without immediately taking on a long-term lease.
• Hybrid work — Employees can work closer to home while retaining access to professional facilities.
• Business continuity — Companies can use alternative workspace when their primary office is unavailable.
• Cost management — Businesses can align workspace requirements more closely with actual usage.
• Regional hiring — Employers can potentially access talent outside traditional business centers.

For SMEs and startups, these considerations can be particularly important because office infrastructure can compete with investments in hiring, technology, product development, and customer acquisition.

What does IWG's global growth say about the flexible workspace market?

IWG's Philippine expansion forms part of a much larger global strategy.

The company says it signed 1,132 locations and opened 782 centers in 2025. Its global network now spans more than 120 countries and includes over one million rooms.

IWG also says 85% of Fortune 500 companies are among its customers.

These figures point to an important development in commercial real estate: flexible workspace is increasingly being treated as an established component of corporate real estate strategy rather than simply an option for freelancers and startups.

The company's expansion also reflects a shift toward decentralized work, where employees and businesses operate across multiple locations rather than relying exclusively on a single headquarters.

What comes next for flexible workspaces in the Philippines?

The next stage of Philippine workplace development is likely to be less about choosing between "office" and "remote work" and more about creating a mix of spaces suited to different needs.

For companies, that could mean maintaining a smaller headquarters while using flexible offices in other locations.

For professionals, it could mean having access to specialized work environments without making long-term property commitments.

And for regional economies, the expansion of professional workspace could help support business activity outside Metro Manila.

IWG's launch of Humanly adds another dimension to that trend. By extending flexible workspace into healthcare and wellness, the company is testing how the model can serve industries where the physical environment is part of the service itself.

As Philippine businesses continue adapting to hybrid work, the real opportunity may be in building a more distributed commercial ecosystem—one where offices, clinics, coworking facilities, and specialized workspaces are available closer to where people actually live and work.

Read More

Skyro Hits 2 Million Product Loans in Philippine Market

Skyro Hits 2 Million Product Loans in Philippine Market

Skyro has reached two million product loan transactions in the Philippines, four years after entering the local market, as demand for consumer financing continues to reshape how Filipinos make major purchases.

The milestone comes as the SEC-registered lending company expands its network to more than 10,000 partner stores and over 3,000 online and offline merchant partners. The company says it is targeting further expansion across the country, with a goal of doubling its growth.

For businesses, the development points to the increasing role of financing at the point of purchase. For consumers, it reflects a broader shift toward payment options that allow them to acquire appliances, smartphones, and other products without paying the entire cost upfront.

Why is consumer financing becoming important to Philippine retailers?

Retail financing allows customers to purchase products through credit and pay according to an agreed repayment schedule. Instead of treating credit as a separate financial transaction, point-of-sale financing integrates it directly into the shopping experience.

That model can benefit retailers by giving customers another way to complete a purchase, particularly when they do not have enough cash available immediately.

Skyro says its financing solutions have helped partner stores increase sales by at least 30%. The company also reports that SMEs account for more than 60% of its sales volume, highlighting the role smaller retailers play in its expansion.

The company's merchant ecosystem includes major retailers such as Abenson, Robinsons Appliances, and EMCOR, alongside smartphone brands including HONOR, TECNO, and Infinix.

How does Skyro's model support financial inclusion?

One of the more significant implications of consumer lending is its potential to connect people with the formal financial system.

For consumers who have never borrowed from a formal financial institution, a product loan can represent an entry point into the credit system. Responsible repayment may help establish a credit history, although the impact depends on how the lender reports and manages credit information.

Skyro says many of its customers are first-time borrowers. Its use of credit-profile-based risk models is intended to allow the company to tailor financing to individual customers while encouraging responsible borrowing.

This is particularly relevant in a market where access to formal financial services remains an important policy and business issue.

Financial inclusion is not simply about making credit available. It also requires that credit is offered responsibly, clearly explained, and appropriate for the borrower's ability to repay.

What does Skyro's 2 million loan milestone mean for merchants?

The growth of embedded financing could give retailers another tool for converting customer interest into actual sales.

For SMEs, this can be particularly relevant. A customer may want to buy an appliance or smartphone but hesitate because of the upfront price. Offering financing at checkout gives the retailer an additional way to close that sale.

Skyro says its partner network includes thousands of SMEs and that these businesses contribute more than 60% of its sales volume.

The model also allows financing providers to become part of the broader retail ecosystem rather than operating separately from merchants.

As more purchases move between physical stores and online platforms, the ability to offer financing across both channels could become increasingly important.

What financing options does Skyro offer?

According to the company, its financing products can include offers such as:

• Zero-down-payment options
• Promotional 0% interest offers
• Flexible payment terms
• Financing available through physical and online merchants
• Credit decisions informed by customer profiles

Terms, eligibility, interest charges, fees, and repayment schedules can vary by product and promotion. Consumers should review the complete financing agreement before accepting a loan.

Why are SMEs important to the consumer lending market?

The participation of smaller businesses is significant because SMEs are a major part of the Philippine retail economy.

A financing platform that works with large national chains alone can reach consumers in major commercial centers. A wider SME network, however, can potentially bring financing closer to communities where consumers shop locally.

For lenders, this also creates a larger distribution network. For merchants, financing can become an additional sales tool without requiring them to develop their own lending infrastructure.

This is one reason the competition in consumer finance is increasingly about more than simply offering credit. Distribution, technology, risk assessment, merchant relationships, and customer experience are becoming equally important.

What comes next for Skyro?

Following the two-million-loan milestone, Skyro says it plans to expand its merchant ecosystem, invest further in technology and data capabilities, and reach more consumers outside major commercial areas.

Co-CEO Arsen Lyametov said the company's growth strategy will continue to focus on technology, security, operational efficiency, and responsible lending.

That direction reflects a broader evolution in consumer finance. As credit becomes embedded into retail transactions, lenders have to balance accessibility with risk management.

For consumers, convenience should not be the only measure of a good financing product. The more important considerations remain affordability, transparency, repayment capacity, and the total cost of borrowing.

What does the growth of digital consumer financing mean for Filipinos?

Skyro's two-million-loan milestone illustrates how financing is becoming increasingly integrated into everyday retail in the Philippines.

The opportunity is significant for both merchants and consumers. Retailers can potentially reach customers who need payment flexibility, while borrowers can gain access to formal credit and, when managed responsibly, develop a financial track record.

But continued growth also raises the importance of responsible lending. As more Filipinos encounter credit directly at checkout, consumers need clear information about interest, fees, repayment obligations, and the consequences of missed payments.

The next phase of Philippine consumer financing will therefore not be measured by loan volume alone. Trust, transparency, responsible credit access, and the ability to serve underserved consumers will be just as important to sustainable growth.

Read More

Mayet Live House Brings Live Commerce to Luxury Jewelry

Mayet Live House Brings Live Commerce to Luxury Jewelry

Wednesday, August 12, 2026

Live selling is moving beyond everyday retail and into higher-value categories, and Mayet Dela Rosa Fine Jewelry is testing that model in the Philippine luxury market with the launch of Mayet Live House.

The new live commerce hub gives aspiring entrepreneurs, content creators, resellers, affiliates, and livestream sellers access to a professional studio, curated fine jewelry collections, selling equipment, and operational support. The model is designed to reduce some of the usual costs associated with starting a retail business.

Instead of purchasing inventory or opening a physical store, participants can reserve livestream schedules and focus on presenting products and interacting with customers while Mayet Live House handles much of the infrastructure behind the sale.

What is Mayet Live House?

Mayet Live House is a livestream selling facility built around fine jewelry.

Qualified participants can book a selling session and use a professionally designed studio equipped with lighting, livestream equipment, high-speed internet, product displays, and operational assistance.

The concept effectively separates selling from traditional retail infrastructure.

A conventional jewelry business can require capital for inventory, a physical location, displays, staffing, logistics, and other operating costs. Mayet Live House instead provides these elements as part of its live-selling environment, allowing sellers to concentrate primarily on the customer-facing side of the business.

That makes the model particularly relevant to the growing creator economy, where individuals can turn an existing audience or content skill into a potential sales channel.

How does the Mayet Live House business model work?

Participants first go through registration and pre-qualification before reserving a livestream schedule.

During their session, sellers receive access to:

• A professional livestream studio
• Curated Mayet fine jewelry collections
• Product displays designed for jewelry presentation
• Professional lighting
• Livestream equipment
• High-speed internet
• Product support
• Operational assistance

The arrangement allows sellers to focus on demonstrating products, answering questions, and building relationships with potential buyers.

Mayet Dela Rosa Fine Jewelry, meanwhile, provides much of the infrastructure required to support the transaction.

Going live may appear simple from the customer's perspective, but successful social commerce also requires systems for processing orders, tracking inventory, communicating with customers, and getting purchases delivered.

By handling those functions, Mayet Live House aims to allow sellers to spend more time on selling and audience engagement.

Who can use Mayet Live House?

The platform is positioned for a broad range of potential sellers, including:

• First-time livestream sellers
• Content creators
• Affiliate marketers
• Resellers
• Students seeking additional income opportunities
• Existing entrepreneurs
• Sellers looking to enter the luxury jewelry category

The common requirement is not necessarily an established retail operation but the willingness and ability to participate in live selling.

This is an important distinction because creator commerce has lowered the barrier between having an audience and becoming a seller.

However, lower barriers do not eliminate the need for selling skills. Building a sustainable live-commerce business still depends on factors such as audience trust, product knowledge, consistency, customer service, and the ability to convert engagement into sales.

What does Mayet Live House mean for Filipino entrepreneurs?

The launch reflects a broader shift in how small businesses and individual entrepreneurs can enter retail.

Starting a traditional jewelry business typically means taking on significant upfront costs before the first customer arrives. A live-commerce model changes that equation by allowing the seller to access existing products, equipment, and operational infrastructure.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, the potential advantage is flexibility.

For brands, the opportunity lies in expanding distribution through a larger network of independent sellers without requiring every seller to build a traditional storefront.

That creates a model closer to creator-led retail, where the brand, seller, and digital audience become part of the same commercial ecosystem.

What role does Mayet Live House play in Mayet Dela Rosa Fine Jewelry's strategy?

Mayet Live House represents a move beyond simply selling fine jewelry as a finished product.

The company is positioning itself as an enabler of a new selling model, using its jewelry portfolio as the foundation for an entrepreneurship platform.

That strategy could allow the brand to reach customers through personalities and communities that it might not otherwise access through conventional retail channels.

It also reflects how luxury businesses are adapting to a retail environment in which consumers increasingly discover products through social media rather than through physical stores alone.

The success of the model, however, will ultimately depend on whether sellers can build genuine customer relationships and generate sustainable demand—not simply on the availability of livestream facilities.

The next phase of Philippine social commerce

Mayet Live House arrives as the boundaries between content creation, entrepreneurship, and retail continue to blur.

For creators, live commerce offers another way to monetize an audience. For brands, it creates a distribution channel built around people rather than storefronts. For consumers, it provides a more interactive way to discover products.

Bringing that model into fine jewelry is a notable experiment because the category depends heavily on trust and presentation.

If Mayet Live House succeeds, its significance could extend beyond jewelry. It could demonstrate how established Philippine brands can provide the infrastructure that allows more individuals to participate in digital commerce without having to build an entire retail operation from scratch.

The company has opened the platform to qualified sellers through Mayet Live House official website.

Read More

Discovery Capital Secures BDO Credit Facility for SME Growth

Discovery Capital Secures BDO Credit Facility for SME Growth

Friday, August 7, 2026

Access to business financing remains one of the biggest challenges facing many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Philippines. A new credit facility between Discovery Capital Finance Corp. (DCFC) and BDO Unibank aims to help address that gap by increasing the availability of funding for businesses outside major urban centers.

The agreement gives Discovery Capital Finance additional lending capacity backed by BDO, allowing the non-bank financial institution to expand its financing operations across Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao. The partnership combines BDO's funding resources with Discovery's technology-driven lending platform to accelerate loan releases for businesses seeking working capital and expansion financing.

Why does the new credit facility matter?

A credit facility is a financing arrangement that allows a borrower, in this case Discovery Capital Finance, to access funds from a financial institution up to an agreed limit. Rather than lending directly to individual businesses, BDO is providing Discovery with additional capital that the company can then deploy to qualified borrowers through its lending programs.

The arrangement strengthens Discovery's ability to finance entrepreneurs while allowing BDO to extend its reach into market segments typically served by specialized lending institutions.

For Philippine businesses, particularly SMEs, this could translate into broader access to financing designed for operational growth, equipment purchases, inventory expansion, and other working capital requirements.

Technology plays a growing role in business lending

Discovery Capital Finance attributes much of its growth to its digital lending infrastructure.

The company uses an end-to-end automated loan management system that covers customer applications, credit evaluation, underwriting, and loan administration. By automating much of the lending process, Discovery aims to reduce processing times while maintaining credit assessment standards.

Technology-enabled lending has become increasingly important in the Philippine financial sector as businesses seek faster access to capital without sacrificing risk management. Digital credit assessment also enables lenders to process a higher volume of applications while maintaining consistent evaluation criteria.

Expanding beyond Metro Manila

One of the partnership's primary objectives is to strengthen lending activities in regional markets.

While Metro Manila remains the country's largest financial hub, economic growth has increasingly spread to emerging cities and provincial business centers. Many SMEs outside the capital continue to experience financing gaps despite growing commercial activity.

Discovery Capital Finance currently serves borrowers across Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao through multiple distribution channels. According to the company, it plans to further expand its physical presence by opening 10 additional satellite offices by 2027 while also introducing real estate loan products as part of its portfolio diversification strategy.

Company President and Chief Executive Officer Diosdado C. Salang Jr. said the partnership with BDO will enable Discovery to broaden its market reach and make specialized lending products available to more businesses nationwide.

Why SME financing remains critical to the Philippine economy

Small and medium-sized enterprises account for more than 99 percent of registered businesses in the Philippines and provide a substantial share of employment nationwide. Despite their economic importance, many SMEs continue to encounter obstacles in securing financing, particularly businesses operating outside major commercial districts.

Limited access to credit can delay expansion plans, reduce hiring capacity, and restrict investments in equipment, technology, and inventory.

By increasing available lending capital through this agreement, Discovery Capital Finance intends to help address these financing constraints while supporting business growth in regional economies.

A broader trend in Philippine financial services

The agreement also reflects a wider trend in the Philippine banking industry, where traditional banks increasingly collaborate with fintech companies and specialized non-bank lenders to serve market segments that require faster and more flexible financing solutions.

These partnerships allow banks to maximize capital deployment while leveraging the technology, operational efficiency, and specialized expertise of lending institutions with established regional networks.

As demand for business financing continues to grow alongside digital transformation in financial services, collaborations between banks and alternative lenders are expected to play a larger role in improving financial inclusion across the country.

Looking ahead

The new credit facility positions Discovery Capital Finance to expand its lending operations while supporting more businesses seeking access to capital. For BDO, the partnership extends financing into regional markets through a specialized lending platform.

As Philippine enterprises continue to invest in expansion and modernization, greater collaboration between banks and non-bank financial institutions could help improve financing accessibility and contribute to broader economic development beyond the country's largest cities.

Read More

FedEx Opens New Cebu Service Center for Global Trade

FedEx Opens New Cebu Service Center for Global Trade

Saturday, August 1, 2026

FedEx has expanded its presence in the Visayas with the opening of a new FedEx Cebu World Service Center in Lapu-Lapu City, reinforcing its logistics network in one of the Philippines' fastest-growing economic regions. The facility is designed to improve access to international shipping services while helping businesses streamline customs processing and cross-border logistics.

Located inside the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Cargo Complex, the new service center reflects growing investment in logistics infrastructure as Cebu strengthens its role as a regional hub for manufacturing, exports, and e-commerce. For businesses looking to reach overseas markets, faster access to shipping and customs support can translate into improved efficiency and shorter delivery timelines.

Why is Cebu becoming a strategic logistics hub?

Cebu has long been one of the country's most important economic centers outside Metro Manila. Its strong manufacturing base, expanding export industries, tourism sector, and growing digital economy have increased demand for reliable international logistics services.

Its central location also allows companies serving the Visayas and parts of Mindanao to move goods more efficiently without routing shipments through Luzon.

As regional trade and cross-border e-commerce continue to expand, logistics providers are increasing investments in infrastructure that supports faster cargo movement and simplified shipping processes.

What does the new FedEx World Service Center offer?

The newly opened facility is located at the Ground-Air Logistics Corporation (GALCO) Complex, adjacent to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) Cebu office within the airport cargo complex.

Its location is intended to simplify customs processing for exporters and importers by placing shipping and customs support within the same logistics ecosystem.

Customers visiting the service center can:

• Drop off international shipments without scheduling a pickup
• Receive assistance with customs documentation
• Consult on customs clearance requirements
• Access FedEx shipping services more conveniently

For businesses managing time-sensitive international deliveries, reducing administrative steps can help improve operational efficiency.

Supporting exporters and growing businesses

According to FedEx Philippines, the expanded facility is intended to serve businesses of varying sizes, from established exporters to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) exploring international markets.

SMEs account for a significant share of Philippine businesses, but many face challenges when entering overseas markets due to shipping costs, customs procedures, and supply chain complexity.

By providing localized logistics support and access to its international network, FedEx aims to help businesses navigate these challenges more efficiently.

For entrepreneurs selling through online marketplaces or direct-to-consumer channels, dependable international shipping has become an increasingly important component of business growth.

Strengthening Cebu's global connectivity

The new World Service Center complements FedEx's existing air operations in Cebu, which currently include:

• Six inbound flights each week (Sunday to Friday)
• Five outbound flights each week (Monday to Thursday and Saturday)

Combined with the company's global transportation network, these operations connect Cebu-based businesses to more than 220 countries and territories.

For exporters, improved connectivity can reduce transit times, improve shipment reliability, and support participation in international supply chains.

Global trade has evolved rapidly over the past decade as digital commerce enables even smaller businesses to sell products across borders.

This shift has increased demand for logistics providers that offer not only transportation but also customs expertise, shipment visibility, and integrated supply chain solutions.

In the Philippines, continued investment in regional logistics facilities can help distribute economic opportunities beyond Metro Manila by making international trade more accessible to businesses located in emerging commercial centers such as Cebu.

As government agencies and private companies continue improving trade infrastructure, regional exporters may benefit from reduced logistical barriers and stronger access to overseas customers.

Looking ahead

The opening of the FedEx Cebu World Service Center highlights the growing importance of regional logistics investments in supporting Philippine businesses.

As cross-border e-commerce, manufacturing exports, and international trade continue to expand, facilities that combine shipping services with customs support can help businesses move goods more efficiently while improving their ability to compete in global markets.

For companies in Cebu and neighboring provinces, closer access to international logistics services may provide another opportunity to scale operations beyond domestic borders.

FedEx's new World Service Center in Cebu represents more than a facility expansion. It reflects the increasing role of logistics infrastructure in enabling regional economic growth, strengthening export capabilities, and supporting Philippine businesses as they connect with international markets. As Cebu continues to emerge as a key trade gateway in the Visayas, investments like this reinforce its position within the country's evolving supply chain landscape.

Read More

Skyro, Netbank Team Up to Simplify Loan Repayments

Skyro, Netbank Team Up to Simplify Loan Repayments

Wednesday, July 29, 2026

For many borrowers, taking out a loan is only the beginning of the financial journey. Repaying it should be just as convenient. Recognizing this, Philippine financing company Skyro has partnered with Netbank to make loan repayments faster, more secure, and easier through real-time digital payment channels.

The collaboration combines Skyro's consumer lending platform with Netbank's Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) infrastructure, giving customers access to more efficient repayment options through supported banks and e-wallets. The move reflects a growing trend in the Philippine fintech sector, where digital lenders are investing not only in loan approvals but also in improving the entire customer experience.

Why is this partnership important?

Digital lending has expanded rapidly in the Philippines, offering consumers easier access to financing for gadgets, appliances, emergencies, and everyday purchases. However, repayment remains a critical part of the lending process.

Missed payments, delayed processing, and limited payment channels can create frustration for borrowers while increasing operational costs for lenders.

By integrating Netbank's payment infrastructure, Skyro aims to make repayments more reliable regardless of whether customers are paying for:

• Skyro Product Loans
• Skyro Cash Loans
• SkyroCredit purchases

The partnership enables payments to be processed in real time through participating banking and e-wallet platforms, helping borrowers manage their obligations more conveniently.

What is Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS)?

Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) is a model that allows companies to integrate banking functions into their own platforms through secure application programming interfaces (APIs). Instead of building banking infrastructure from scratch, businesses can use services provided by licensed financial institutions or banking technology providers.

For consumers, BaaS often translates into faster transactions, smoother payment experiences, and more digital financial services without needing to visit a physical bank.

In Skyro's case, Netbank provides the payment and cash management infrastructure that powers loan collections and transaction processing behind the scenes.

How borrowers benefit

The partnership focuses on making repayment less complicated for customers.

Key advantages include:

• Faster payment processing
• Secure digital transactions
• Multiple supported banking and e-wallet payment channels
• More reliable payment posting
• A smoother repayment experience from application to loan completion

Although borrowers may not directly interact with Netbank's technology, they benefit from a payment system designed to reduce delays and improve transaction reliability.

Strengthening the digital lending ecosystem

For fintech companies, customer experience extends well beyond loan approval.

Efficient payment processing helps reduce collection issues, improves reconciliation, and allows lenders to better serve their customers. Reliable repayment systems can also support stronger credit relationships by minimizing payment errors and giving borrowers greater confidence in digital financial services.

Skyro says the collaboration supports its broader goal of expanding financial access while providing financing solutions that fit different lifestyles and financial needs.

The company continues to offer a range of products, including installment financing for retail purchases, cash loans, and a digital credit line, supported by data analytics, artificial intelligence, and a growing retail partner network.

What this means for the Philippine fintech industry

The partnership reflects a broader shift across the country's financial technology sector.

As digital lending becomes increasingly competitive, providers are focusing on every stage of the customer journey—not just loan approvals. Payment infrastructure, digital identity verification, fraud prevention, and customer support have become important areas of investment.

Meanwhile, Banking-as-a-Service providers like Netbank are playing a larger role by supplying the infrastructure that enables fintech companies to scale efficiently without building complex banking systems on their own.

These collaborations are expected to become more common as lenders seek to improve operational efficiency while offering consumers a more seamless digital experience.

For lenders, faster and more reliable repayment systems can improve operational efficiency and strengthen customer relationships.

For fintech providers, partnerships with Banking-as-a-Service platforms reduce the complexity of managing payment infrastructure while supporting compliance and scalability.

For borrowers, the biggest advantage is convenience. Easier repayment options can encourage responsible borrowing by making it simpler to stay on top of payment schedules through familiar banking and digital wallet channels.

Skyro's partnership with Netbank underscores how digital lending is evolving beyond loan origination to focus on the entire borrowing experience. By strengthening its repayment infrastructure through Banking-as-a-Service technology, Skyro aims to provide customers with faster, more secure, and more convenient payment options.

As digital finance continues to grow in the Philippines, collaborations between fintech companies and infrastructure providers are likely to play an increasingly important role in expanding access to reliable financial services.

Read More

Fiuu Strengthens Southeast Asia Payment Network with JCB Direct Acquiring License

Fiuu Strengthens Southeast Asia Payment Network with JCB Direct Acquiring License

Thursday, July 23, 2026

As digital commerce continues to expand across Southeast Asia, payment providers are investing in infrastructure that makes transactions faster, more reliable, and easier for businesses to manage. Fiuu's latest milestone reflects that shift, with the fintech company securing a JCB Direct Acquiring license that strengthens card acceptance across key markets in the region.

The new license allows Fiuu to connect directly with JCB's payment network in Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines, giving merchants a more streamlined way to accept JCB card payments across both online and physical stores. Thailand is expected to be the next market added under the company's regional expansion strategy.

What is a JCB Direct Acquiring license?

A direct acquiring license allows a payment service provider to process card transactions directly with a card network instead of routing them through third-party intermediaries.

For merchants, this can translate into:

• Faster payment settlement
• Improved transaction reliability
• Better visibility into payment activity
• More consistent card acceptance
• Greater operational efficiency

By removing additional layers in the payment process, payment providers gain more control over transaction processing, merchant support, and settlement operations.

For companies operating across Southeast Asia, payment acceptance has become a competitive advantage rather than simply a technical requirement.

Consumers increasingly expect businesses to support multiple payment methods, whether shopping online, paying through mobile devices, or purchasing in physical stores.

Fiuu's direct connection with JCB enables merchants to serve a broader customer base, particularly travelers and consumers who rely on JCB cards for purchases across the region.

The move also simplifies payment management for businesses expanding into multiple Southeast Asian markets by allowing them to work with a single regional acquiring partner.

Southeast Asia's digital payments market continues to grow

The announcement comes as Southeast Asia experiences sustained growth in digital commerce.

According to figures cited by Fiuu, three out of five consumers in the region now shop online, while more than 60% of payments are made digitally.

Although QR payments and digital wallets continue to gain popularity, credit cards remain an important payment method because of established consumer spending habits and rewards programs.

This combination of payment options has created growing demand for payment providers capable of supporting multiple channels while maintaining reliable processing across borders.

Fiuu expands its regional payment infrastructure

The new license builds on Fiuu's existing regional payment operations.

The company reported processing US$13 billion in payment volume during fiscal year 2025, demonstrating its ability to support high transaction volumes across different industries and markets.

By becoming a direct acquirer for JCB, Fiuu strengthens its position within Southeast Asia's payment ecosystem while reducing dependence on intermediary payment processors.

The company also plans to extend its direct acquiring capability to Thailand, further expanding its regional footprint.

Why JCB remains an important payment network

JCB is one of Asia's largest payment brands and serves millions of cardholders worldwide.

As of 2026, the payment network has 181 million cards in circulation globally and is accepted by 72 million merchants.

For businesses targeting Japanese travelers, international customers, and regional shoppers, supporting JCB payments can help broaden payment acceptance while improving customer convenience.

The bigger picture

The partnership between Fiuu and JCB reflects a broader trend shaping Southeast Asia's fintech sector.

As cross-border commerce accelerates, businesses increasingly need payment partners that combine local expertise with regional infrastructure. Direct acquiring helps simplify payment operations, improve transaction performance, and provide merchants with greater visibility into their payment ecosystem.

For merchants expanding across Southeast Asia, these capabilities can reduce operational complexity while making it easier to serve customers through both online and offline sales channels.

Read More

FedEx Helps APAC Exporters Meet New U.S. CPSC Rules

FedEx Helps APAC Exporters Meet New U.S. CPSC Rules

Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Doing business internationally has never been just about moving products across borders. Increasingly, it is about moving data just as efficiently.

Beginning July 8, 2026, businesses exporting certain consumer products to the United States must comply with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) e-filing requirements, a regulatory change that could reshape how exporters prepare shipments for one of the world's largest consumer markets.

Recognizing the operational challenges many businesses face, Federal Express Corporation (FedEx) is expanding its support for exporters across Asia-Pacific, including the Philippines, through digital tools, compliance guidance, and customer education aimed at helping businesses adapt to the new requirements.

For exporters, the new rules are more than another customs requirement. They signal a broader shift toward digitally driven trade compliance that is becoming standard across global supply chains.

What Are the New U.S. CPSC E-Filing Requirements?

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regulates thousands of consumer products sold in the United States to help ensure they meet federal safety standards.

Starting July 8, importers of CPSC-regulated products must electronically submit required product safety information at the time goods enter the U.S.

The electronic filing includes product compliance data, certification details, and other information needed for customs clearance. Companies may also register products in the CPSC Product Registry, allowing them to submit a shorter electronic message for future shipments.

For exporters, this means product compliance documentation must be prepared much earlier in the shipping process.

The United States remains one of the Philippines' largest export markets, particularly for consumer goods such as electronics, toys, household products, furniture, and other manufactured items.

The new e-filing requirement places greater responsibility on exporters to work closely with U.S. importers to ensure product information is complete before shipments leave their origin.

Businesses that fail to meet the documentation requirements may face:

• Customs clearance delays
• Additional compliance costs
• Shipment holds
• Financial penalties
• Refusal of entry into the U.S.

For manufacturers operating on tight delivery schedules, even minor documentation errors can disrupt customer commitments and supply chain performance.

Readiness Gap Highlights a Business Risk

While awareness of the regulation is growing, implementation remains a challenge.

FedEx said customer education webinars held across 12 Asia-Pacific markets reached more than 5,000 participants, ranging from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to multinational companies.

The findings suggest that many businesses understand the new rules but have yet to incorporate compliance into their operational workflows.

For exporters, this gap could become a competitive disadvantage as enforcement begins.

Compliance Is Becoming a Competitive Capability

The survey also provides insight into what exporters believe they need most.

Among respondents, the highest priorities included:

• Better guidance on determining whether products fall under CPSC regulations.
• Digital tools that validate compliance information before shipment.
• Centralized regulatory resources and updates.
• Integrated documentation workflows.
• Access to customs and trade compliance specialists.

These priorities reflect a broader transformation occurring across international trade.

Increasingly, exporters are looking for logistics providers that offer not only transportation services but also regulatory expertise and digital compliance capabilities.

FedEx Expands Digital Trade Support

To help customers prepare, FedEx has integrated CPSC e-filing capabilities into its digital shipping platforms, including FedEx Ship Manager™ and FedEx API.

These systems enable customers to submit compliance information as part of their existing shipping workflow, reducing manual processes while supporting both available CPSC filing methods.

Beyond technology, the company has expanded customer support through:

• Step-by-step compliance guides
• Product classification assistance
• Registration guidance for the CPSC Product Registry
• Access to customs clearance and trade compliance specialists
• Updated regulatory resources and documentation support

For businesses new to CPSC requirements, these services can help reduce the risk of shipment delays as enforcement begins.

Why Digital Compliance Is Becoming a Supply Chain Priority

The CPSC mandate reflects a wider trend in global trade.

Governments worldwide are modernizing customs systems by requiring more electronic documentation before goods arrive at ports of entry.

These initiatives aim to:

• Improve product safety oversight
• Strengthen border security
• Reduce customs processing times
• Increase supply chain transparency
• Improve regulatory enforcement

For exporters, compliance is no longer simply a legal obligation. It is becoming an operational capability that directly affects customer satisfaction, delivery performance, and market access.

Businesses that invest in digital compliance systems today may be better positioned to respond to future regulatory changes in other markets.

The new U.S. CPSC e-filing requirements represent another step in the ongoing digital transformation of global trade.

For Philippine and Asia-Pacific exporters, the changes underscore the importance of preparing product compliance data well before shipments leave the warehouse. As regulatory expectations become more data-driven, companies that embed compliance into their everyday operations can reduce disruption, strengthen customer confidence, and protect access to key export markets.

For logistics providers such as FedEx, the shift also reflects an evolving role—from transportation partner to strategic advisor—helping businesses navigate increasingly complex international trade requirements through technology, expertise, and integrated compliance solutions.

Read More

Philippine Seven Corporation Achieves Record 2025 Sales Under President Richard Lee

Philippine Seven Corporation Achieves Record 2025 Sales Under President Richard Lee

Thursday, July 16, 2026

There's a good chance you've stopped by a 7-Eleven recently, whether it was for a quick coffee, a late-night snack, or an everyday essential. That growing reliance on convenience stores is reflected in the latest performance of Philippine Seven Corporation (PSC), the exclusive licensor of 7-Eleven Philippines, which posted record-breaking results in 2025.

During its Annual Stockholders' Meeting, the company announced its highest-ever system-wide sales, continued store expansion, and significant investments in digital innovation. The year also marked a leadership transition, with Richard Lee taking the helm as president while the company continued to focus on long-term growth.

Philippine Seven Corporation Achieves Record Sales in 2025

Philippine Seven Corporation ended 2025 on a high note, reporting system-wide sales of Php 99.4 billion, a 6.4% increase from Php 93.5 billion in 2024.

The company's total revenues also climbed 7.2%, reaching Php 95.1 billion compared to Php 88.7 billion the previous year.

According to PSC, the strong performance was driven by:

• Increased customer traffic
• Higher average spending per visit
• Continued expansion of the 7-Eleven store network
• Strong sales from fresh food and proprietary foodservice offerings

Despite operating in a more challenging consumer environment, the company maintained a net income of Php 3.6 billion, highlighting the resilience of its business model.

A Stronger Financial Position

Beyond sales growth, PSC also strengthened its financial foundation.

Key highlights include:

• Total assets increased by 10.5% to Php 47.8 billion
• Stockholders' equity rose 23% to Php 11.2 billion
• Return on equity reached a record 35.61%
• Debt-to-equity ratio remained at a manageable 3.28x

These results position the company to continue investing in future expansion while maintaining financial flexibility.

Reflecting on the year's performance, Richard Lee, President of Philippine Seven Corporation, said:

"We delivered another solid year in a demanding environment. Our priority was continuity, keeping the momentum going while strengthening the business for what comes next. We stayed disciplined in how we grow and kept investing in the capabilities that serve our customers and shareholders over the long term."

A New Chapter Under President Richard Lee

One of the biggest milestones for Philippine Seven Corporation in 2025 was its leadership transition.

In July 2025, Richard Lee officially assumed the role of President, while longtime executive Jose Victor Paterno became Chairman of the Board.

Rather than changing the company's direction, the transition focused on maintaining continuity while preparing PSC for its next phase of sustainable growth.

Board Chairman Jose Victor Paterno expressed confidence in the company's future leadership.

"Richard brings a deep understanding of our operations and a disciplined approach to growth. As the Board, our focus remains on sustaining that momentum and creating lasting value for our shareholders and the communities we serve."

7-Eleven Continues to Grow Across the Philippines

Store expansion remained one of PSC's biggest growth drivers.

By the end of 2025, the company operated 4,491 7-Eleven stores nationwide, up from 4,130 locations the previous year.

That represents 423 new stores, making 7-Eleven even more accessible to communities across the country.

The current network consists of:

• 53.42% company-owned stores
• 46.58% franchised stores

Alongside expansion, PSC continued enhancing store formats and improving the customer experience to meet changing consumer preferences.

Cashless Payments Become More Accessible

Convenience today goes beyond location. It also means offering customers faster and easier ways to pay.

During 2025, Philippine Seven Corporation accelerated its digital transformation by expanding cashless payment options throughout its network.

By the end of the year, more than 1,000 stores already accepted multiple digital payment methods.

That rollout continued rapidly, reaching over 4,000 stores by the end of May 2026.

Customers can now pay using Credit cards, Debit cards, QR Ph, E-wallets, and other cashless payment options.

The expansion reflects the growing preference among Filipino consumers for digital transactions and more seamless in-store experiences.

Looking Ahead

As convenience retail continues to evolve, Philippine Seven Corporation is positioning itself for long-term growth through technology, operational improvements, and strategic expansion.

According to Richard Lee, the company's priorities remain clear.

"Our focus now is on execution, opening the right stores, deepening how we serve customers, and scaling the digital and payment capabilities we built this year. That is how we keep 7-Eleven the most convenient choice for Filipinos wherever they are."

With record sales, a growing nationwide footprint, and continued investments in innovation, PSC enters its next chapter with strong momentum. For everyday shoppers, that could mean even more accessible stores, expanded digital services, and a more convenient retail experience in the years ahead.

Read More