VFS Global acquires majority stake in CiX Citizen Experience to create a centre of excellence and promote Brazilian knowhow in Public Service abroad

VFS Global acquires majority stake in CiX Citizen Experience to create a centre of excellence and promote Brazilian knowhow in Public Service abroad

Thursday, May 8, 2025

VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services, empowering secure global mobility for governments and citizens, has completed the acquisition of a majority stake in CiX Citizen Experience, a leading provider of digital and physical citizen services based in Brazil. This strategic acquisition marks a pivotal step in VFS Global’s expansion journey—particularly across Latin America (LATAM)—as it continues to broaden its capabilities and deepen its impact in the public service delivery space.

With nearly two decades of pioneering innovation in citizen services, CiX has established a strong presence in Brazil. This success will be further scaled across LATAM and other global markets, leveraging VFS Global’s international reach and operational excellence.

This acquisition is centred on driving transformation through advanced digital technologies, including AI and data-driven platforms. By uniting CiX’s cutting-edge digital capabilities with VFS Global’s extensive global infrastructure and expertise in managing complex service ecosystems, we are positioned to deliver next-generation, integrated solutions to public and private sector clients around the world.

For both companies’ client governments and partners, this will lead to enhanced, tailored solutions that improve citizen engagement, access, and satisfaction.

Sergio Rodrigues, CEO of CiX Citizen Services, said, “Partnering with VFS Global will supercharge our growth. With access to their capital, technology, talent, and global reach, we can rapidly expand across Latin America, and beyond. This collaboration is about scaling CiX Citizen Experience, delivering even more intuitive, efficient, and accessible government services. Our goal is to simplify citizens' lives with a combination of physical and digital solutions that also bring agility, and savings for governments worldwide.”

Zubin Karkaria, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global, added, "We are very pleased to have concluded this strategically important acquisition which will be value accretive for both companies – for CiX Citizen Experience and for VFS Global. VFS Global operates in 158 countries, serves 69 client governments and has a workforce of nearly 13,000 people from 153 nationalities. Access to all of this, and our technological capabilities, will provide the launchpad for CiX Citizen Experience in its next phase of growth to become a global powerhouse. Our collaboration will transform citizen services world-wide, driving efficiency and inclusivity. It highlights VFS Global’s commitment to innovative solutions that enhance citizens' quality of life and build renewed trust in governments."

Since its founding in 2008, CiX Citizen Experience has established itself as a pioneer in public services, managing over 250 service centres across Brazil. The company offers more than 200 types of services to states and municipalities, significantly enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of government services. Over the years, CiX Citizen Experience has served over 150 million citizens, issuing more than 30 million identity cards and 20 million driver’s licenses. With operations in key regions such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, and Ceará, CiX Citizen Experience continues to lead the way in digital and physical public service solutions, driving innovation and improving the quality of life for millions of citizens.

VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services, empowering secure global mobility for governments and citizens, has significantly expanded its global footprint. With over 3,500 Application Centres in 158 countries, VFS Global has processed more than 309 million applications since its inception in 2001. In 2023, the company secured seven major global contracts, including a landmark agreement with the UK government as the exclusive overseas provider to manage visa and citizenship services across 142 countries. Additionally, VFS Global won contracts with the governments of Australia, Norway, Sweden, Latvia, Iceland, and Austria, further solidifying its position as a trusted partner in delivering secure, efficient, and innovative solutions for visa and consular services worldwide.

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Schneider Electric kicks off the year with significant sustainability milestones, exceeds 2024 target

Schneider Electric kicks off the year with significant sustainability milestones, exceeds 2024 target

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, announced that its Schneider Sustainability Impact (SSI) program achieved a score of 7.95 out of 10 for the first quarter of 2025, towards a target of 8.80/10 by the end of the year.

Recognized as the world’s most sustainable corporation by Corporate Knights, Schneider Electric continues to make significant strides towards its sustainability goals as it enters the final year of its current SSI program. The company also recently published details of its sustainability performance for the final quarter of 2024, alongside its full-year financial results. The company’s SSI score for 2024 reached 7.55 out of 10, surpassing the end-year target of 7.40. Monitoring and reporting on the 11 global commitments of its SSI’s quarterly progress remains essential to achieving the company’s goals across all dimensions of environmental, social, and governance (ESG).

SSI is the company’s framework for measuring sustainability progress, aligned with its business strategy. Performance is tracked against a 2020 baseline, with some programs using adjusted baselines due to COVID-19. SSI scores progress on a 10-point scale, where the 2025 target equals 10/10, and the base year is 3/10. Scores are calculated per key performance indicator, averaged equally (excluding Local Commitment), and externally audited annually. In 2024, SSI #8 received "reasonable" assurance.

“In 2024, Schneider Electric was recognized by TIME and Statista as the World’s Most Sustainable Company. Earlier this year, we were honored to receive the same recognition from Corporate Knights as part of its Global 100 ranking – marking our second time topping this list and a first for any corporation. These remarkable achievements, alongside other key ESG recognitions inspire us to reach even greater heights in 2025,” said Chris Leong, Chief Sustainability Officer at Schneider Electric. “As we enter the final year of our Sustainability Impact program, we are determined to continue transforming ambition into action. There's still work ahead, but with the support of our extensive ecosystem, our people, and all our Impact Makers, we will succeed.”

In Q1 2025, Schneider Electric helped customers save and avoid nearly 700 million tonnes of CO₂ through its solutions. Since 2018, its energy-saving technologies have enabled 679 million tonnes in avoided emissions. It also achieved a 42% emissions cut from its top 1,000 suppliers through energy efficiency and renewables under the Zero Carbon Project.

Schneider Electric’s suppliers uphold decent work standards, with compliance rising from 21% in 2023 to 63% in 2024. Exceeding its SSI goal ahead of schedule, Schneider has provided clean electricity to 53.4 million people and trained 824,000+ individuals in energy management, nearing its 1 million target by 2025. Through its Youth Education & Entrepreneurship program, Schneider equips young people with skills for sustainable careers.

In addition to these accomplishments, for the 14th consecutive year, Schneider Electric has been included in the Dow Jones Best-in-Class World Index, achieved a place on CDP’s A list, and earned a AAA rating from MSCI ESG. Its latest score from EcoVadis also secured a Platinum medal.

“At Schneider, we believe in strong partnerships with corporations, governments, local partners, and communities to uplift livelihoods, boost incomes, and expand access to education and reliable, clean energy,” added Leong. “I'm especially proud of our people’s relentless pursuit to turn ambition into action, from innovating solutions for environmental impact to giving back to our communities. Together, we’re making progress and sustainability a reality for all.”

For further insights on Schneider’s Sustainability Impact program, explore Schneider Electric's Q4 and Q1 2025 reports featuring detailed progress dashboards.

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Cebu Pacific Catering Services Joins Global Airline Caterers Shifting to 100% Cage-Free Eggs

Cebu Pacific Catering Services Joins Global Airline Caterers Shifting to 100% Cage-Free Eggs

Sunday, April 27, 2025

Leading airline catering provider Cebu Pacific Catering Services (CPCS) won praise today from international NGO Lever Foundation for committing to sourcing 100% cage-free eggs across its operations by 2030. This commitment aligns CPCS with a growing movement among international airline caterers to advance animal welfare standards in their supply chains.

"Our commitment to sourcing 100% cage-free eggs by 2030 reflects CPCS's dedication to aligning with global sustainability standards while maintaining the highest quality in airline catering," said Sherwin B. Olivar, General Manager at Cebu Pacific Catering Services Inc. "This initiative represents an important step in our ongoing efforts to implement responsible sourcing practices that meet international standards."

A joint venture between MacroAsia Corporation, Cathay Pacific Catering Services of Hong Kong, and MGO Pacific Resources Corporation, CPCS prepares over 2000 meals daily for International flights at Mactan-Cebu International Airport. The company's commitment follows similar pledges by major airline caterers worldwide, including its partner Cathay Pacific Catering Services in Hong Kong, demonstrating a coordinated industry shift toward more responsible sourcing practices.

"CPCS's full transition to cage-free eggs demonstrates its strong leadership in sustainability within the airline catering sector," said Robyn del Rosario, Sustainability Program Manager at Lever Foundation, which worked with the company on developing its new commitment. "Their decision will influence regional supply chains and show how international partnerships can drive positive change in the aviation services industry."

Cage-free egg production, in which hens are given the freedom to move in open indoor environments, improves animal welfare and significantly lowers food safety risks compared to caged egg production. Exhaustive research by the European Food Safety Authority found that cage-free egg farms are up to 25 times less likely to be contaminated with key strains of salmonella than caged egg farms. The production of caged eggs has been banned across Europe, as well as in the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, Bhutan and parts of India, Australia and the United States. An increasing number of consumers have also been leaving eggs off their plate as the best way to help laying hens.

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YouTube Shopping launches in the Philippines, expanding partnership with Shopee in Southeast Asia

YouTube Shopping launches in the Philippines, expanding partnership with Shopee in Southeast Asia

Thursday, April 24, 2025

YouTube, in partnership with Shopee, launches YouTube Shopping in the Philippines. With this launch, the YouTube Shopping affiliate program is now available in six countries across Southeast Asia, further fueling the burgeoning video commerce in the region. YouTube Shopping seeks to elevate the purchase experience and create more opportunities for viewers, content creators, and even advertisers.

Viewers can now seamlessly find and buy the things they love while watching content from their favorite creators. The YouTube Shopping affiliate program transforms video e-commerce from links in the description box to actual and direct product tagging – no more extra clicking, endless searching, or switching between websites. All they have to do is check out!

The launch of the YouTube Shopping Affiliate Program in the Philippines offers exciting opportunities for both Shopee sellers and content creators. Shopee sellers can now expand their reach by collaborating with an even broader network of content creators through this partnership, giving them the opportunity to tap into a highly engaged, incremental audience and drive sales like never before. This seamless connection between creators and sellers accelerates product discovery, amplifies brand reach, and ultimately enhances conversion rates.

For eligible local creators, this partnership unlocks new business opportunities, enabling them to monetize their influence by promoting products to an audience they have already built connections with. As consumers in the Philippines increasingly seek engaging, content-driven shopping experiences, this collaboration meets their evolving expectations.

Tapping on the rise of video commerce and creator economy in the Philippines

Southeast Asia is one of the world's fastest-growing e-commerce markets, with video commerce having surged to 20% of the region’s e-commerce gross merchandise value in 2024–a fourfold increase since 2022. At the same time the Philippine creator economy is thriving, with over 450 channels with more than one million subscribers, and over 6,000 channels with more than 100,000 subscribers.

Driving this growth is a shift from traditional discovery to a video-first shopping experience, with consumers looking to online content with creators they trust for information and entertainment. On YouTube, creators are more than just entrepreneurs and cultural influencers – they are trusted advisors on behalf of brands. A global study reveals that online users are 98% more likely to trust recommendations from YouTube creators compared to other social platforms. This trust translates directly into purchase confidence. In fact, YouTube drives 3.8 times greater purchase intent than other social platforms on averages.

This underscores viewers’ trust in creators' recommendations and their desire for authentic product reviews and demonstrations ultimately leading to conversion. Consumers are looking to search- and video-led entertainment to enrich their shopping experience, and this deep engagement with trusted creators on YouTube underscores the platform’s unique position to power this.

According to a Kantar study on shopping behaviors among Southeast Asian Gen Zs, eight in ten Gen Z respondents desire entertaining shopping experiences reinforcing the importance of content in their shopping journey. Furthermore, despite exploring alternative channels for product discovery, 63% of Filipino Gen Z respondents still prefer to complete their purchases on e-commerce platforms, making this partnership between YouTube and Shopee highly synergistic in creating an integrated, seamless shopping experience.

Sapna Chadha, Vice President for Google Southeast Asia and South Asia Frontier said, “Southeast Asia is shaping the future of shopping with its powerful combination of a deeply engaged video-first audience, a profitable digital economy, and a vibrant creator community. We’re thrilled to bring YouTube Shopping to the Philippines—making Southeast Asia home to six out of nine countries globally that have it. Just seven months since our regional debut, we’re seeing strong traction across creators, sellers, and advertisers already. Building on this early momentum, YouTube Shopping will continue to grow, unlocking new opportunities for viewers, creators, brands, and partners across this dynamic region.”

Vincent Lee, Head of Shopee Philippines shared, ”At Shopee, we are committed to delivering engaging shopping experiences that integrate content, community, and commerce. Our partnership with YouTube Shopping is a significant milestone for our brands and sellers, allowing them to connect with creators and harness their influence to drive sales effectively. This collaboration also opens up exciting opportunities for the growing number of Filipino content creators to monetize their creativity while promoting products that resonate with their audiences. As the digital economy continues to expand, our commitment is to support sellers and creators alike, helping them thrive in this evolving landscape."

Earn more with YouTube Shopping affiliate program for creators

With the YouTube Shopping affiliate program, creators can tag products in existing and new videos, as well as pin them during live streams. The full list of tagged products and information about each product is made available at a glance in the description section and ‘Product’ section of the video. Clicking on a product will lead viewers directly to an external sales page on Shopee, for a seamless purchase.

The YouTube Shopping affiliate program complements existing monetization options that empower Filipino creators to engage their audience and build deeper connections beyond immediate sales. These include tools such as Ads Revenue, YouTube Premium Revenue, Channel Memberships, Super Thanks, Super Chat and Super Stickers.

In just seven months since YouTube launched the YouTube Shopping affiliate program in Southeast Asia, the program has delivered impressive results and fantastic momentum.

For example, Mai Trinh Hồ, a beauty and fashion creator known for her honest reviews, joined the YouTube Shopping affiliate program in the last quarter of 2024 and has already seen her revenue increase by almost five times. Another case is that of Jagat Review, a tech creator from Indonesia, shared that his earnings from the YouTube Shopping affiliate program made up a whopping 50% of his channel's total earnings between July and October of last year.

Now that YouTube Shopping is launched in the Philippines, creators like Camille Co are excited – she is already sharing her favorite makeup products by tagging them on her videos.

“I always get asked where I got this and that makeup or clothing or home stuff on my vlogs and for a long time, it’s been challenging to share them all.” Co said. “Now with YouTube Shopping, it’s so much easier to share these products that I love and truly believe in. A huge plus also for me because I get to earn on the side while doing so!”

Mond Salem of Hardware Voyage, a Filipino tech channel, is also optimistic about the feature. “I’m so excited about YouTube Shopping finally being in the Philippines! I’m looking forward to me and my fellow creators earning more with featured product sale commissions,” he said.

Reach and engagement opportunities for brands and advertisers

For advertisers, YouTube Shopping opens new doors to reach and engage more consumers, driving better business outcomes.

By enabling advertisers to directly connect partnership ads with relevant creator content, it will shorten the customer journey from discovery to sale. Brands can also use creator videos both long and short with product feeds in campaigns to expand reach to new customers across YouTube. For example, L’Oréal Thailand combined its campaign with the YouTube Shopping affiliate programme and achieved 10X more high-intent views, with a cost-per-visit twice as efficient as previous campaigns.

Since launching the YouTube Shopping affiliate program across the region, YouTube and Shopee have witnessed active usage and purchase across different categories such as Beauty, Mobile & Gadgets, and Home & Living. This shows the diverse product range and significant potential for creators to influence consumer purchasing decisions. As YouTube Shopping continues to gain momentum in Southeast Asia, it strengthens its position as a transformative force in the video commerce and creator economies.

To learn more about enabling YouTube Shopping on your channel, click here.

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Our Seat at the Table: UN Women, GCash, and Connected Women to forge action plan for women tech inclusion

Our Seat at the Table: UN Women, GCash, and Connected Women to forge action plan for women tech inclusion

Monday, April 21, 2025

Actionable insights for the Gender Action Lab: Innovation for Impact, UN Women’s new platform for gender equality, innovation, and private sector collaboration

UN Women, the global champion for gender equality and women empowerment, and GCash, the Philippines’ leading financial super app, in collaboration with Connected Women, the premier Filipino community for women’s empowerment in the digital economy, recently hosted its 2025 Women in Tech Summit, “Our Seat at the Table,” to help accelerate tech inclusion for women and girls.

‘Our Seat at the Table’ doubled as a think tank, where actionable insights were formulated to supplement the policy recommendations to support the implementation of the UN Women Gender Action Lab (GAL): Innovation for Impact, an initiative powered by the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) and supported by the Government of Australia through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

70 influential women leaders from different industries and sectors gathered to workshop solutions and share best practices for enabling women’s economic empowerment through tech.

Her Excellency HK Yu PSM, FCPA (Aust), Australian ambassador to the Philippines, delivered the keynote address as guest of honor, highlighting three tenets that could inspire the strategies developed by the participants.

“The first thing is to give women and girls a voice [and then] create platforms like this for [those] voices to come through,” began Ambassador Yu. “The second thing is to invest in women and girls, [which] can be done at the highest level—through your companies and your government—and the individual level.”

Ambassador Yu also cited ways Australia puts gender equality at the center of diplomacy. “In everything we do, we ask the question: ‘[This should be] 50-50, and if it’s not, why not?’” The principle is used in Australian policies; for example, Australia has a target that more than 80% of development programs should effectively address gender equality.

Innovating to promote gender inclusion

To touch on the third and final tenet, Ambassador Yu shared some statistics of note: Today, women and girls are 20% less likely to have smartphones, and 28% are less likely to have access to the internet. She shared: “Another challenge for this particular set of sector leaders is [to ensure that] whatever innovation or product you come up with in your area [is] woman- and girl-friendly.”

“What are we doing to rebalance this so that we women and girls get the advantage?” asked Ambassador Yu. “I call [the solution] ‘positive bias.’ As leaders, you have the power to make a huge difference, so apply positive bias. Let’s [ensure] we achieve a world where there is true equality and where women and girls always have a seat at the table.”

Rowie Zamora, the chief strategy Officer of GCash, further set the tone for the event, reminding attendees about the innate responsibility to apply that positive bias. “Gone are the days when people are surprised that we have women tech leaders, CEOs, and public sector leaders, but we need to acknowledge that there’s still a long way [to go],” she shared. “Now the real work ahead of us is to think of the rest of the women inside and outside NCR who still need help to be part of the digital economy.”

Banding together for more significant breakthroughs

“Our Seat at the Table” centered on action-oriented solutions. The attendees participated in five thought-provoking roundtable discussions tackling today’s critical issues, facilitated by women leaders specializing in the respective topics.

These included Rosemarie Rafael, WomenBizPH chairperson and president & CEO of Airspeed, who moderated the “Digital Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation” session, and Gina Romero, the CEO & Co-Founder of Mettamatch and founder of Connected Women, who moderated the “Corporate Transformation and Professional Development” session alongside her co-facilitator Ambe Tierro, the country lead of Accenture.

Mylene Abiva, president & CEO of Felta MultiMedia, Inc., steered the discussion on “Technology and Innovation,” while Linartes Viloria, the National Project coordinator of Women in STEM Workforce Readiness and Development Programme of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Country Office for the Philippines, guided the “Education and Skills Development” session. Meanwhile, Mel Migrino, the chair, president & CEO of Women in Security Alliance Philippines, facilitated the “Online Safety and Cybersecurity” roundtable discussion.

This multi-sectoral representation allowed for every voice to be heard and for the development of holistic opportunities that address the multifaceted barriers many women face in accessing and utilizing digital technologies.

“The integration of technology in the lives of women and girls is a tool for empowerment [and simultaneously] a vehicle for societal transformation,” said Antoinette Santos, the Programme Analyst for the UN Women Gender Action Lab.

“Let us advocate for policies and programs that uplift women and bridge the gender gap,” added Santos. “Let us mentor and nurture the next generation of women leaders in technology and beyond. Let us work tirelessly toward creating a world where every woman and girl can flourish, regardless of the obstacles in her path.”

“Our Seat at the Table” culminates the global celebration of International Women’s Month in March but only marks the beginning of GCash’s mission to “Accelerate Action, Accelerate Inclusion”—a campaign that has prioritized results-oriented advocacies and tangible change in digital fintech spaces for Filipino women.

This is followed by the celebration of Women in Tech month in April of GCash, a global movement to drive awareness, recognition, and action toward greater inclusion in STEM education and the tech industry. GCash, a predominantly women-led company, is set to serve as a testament to how women can serve as catalysts for change and reiterate its commitment to an accessible, diverse, equitable, and responsive digital landscape that leaves no one behind.

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Filipinos Show High Awareness and Trust for Direct Selling - Herbalife survey

Filipinos Show High Awareness and Trust for Direct Selling - Herbalife survey

Monday, April 14, 2025

Herbalife, a premier health and wellness company, community and platform, today released findings from its Asia Pacific Direct Selling Survey. The survey findings for the Philippines revealed a high level of understanding around direct selling with 9 in 10 (95%) respondents correctly identifying “direct selling as a method of selling goods or services directly to a consumer, through personal contact without the need for a permanent retail premise”. Philippines has the highest understandings of direct selling compared to other countries in Asia Pacific (APAC).

Filipinos also showed a strong awareness of direct selling regulations and trust in the industry. More than 9 in 10 (92%) recognized the existence of laws that protect consumers, regulate the industry, and guide voluntary self-regulation. When asked about perceptions of the industry 8 in 10 (81%) said they trust direct selling. This places Philippines at the top, followed by Vietnam (70%) and Malaysia (69%).

“These findings reflect the strong and growing confidence Filipinos have in direct selling as a trusted and legitimate business model,” said Allan Domingo, Director and General Manager of Herbalife Philippines. “With one of the highest levels of awareness and trust in the region, it’s clear that the combined efforts of direct selling companies, industry associations, and regulators to promote ethical practices and consumer education are working. This makes the Philippines a strong environment for entrepreneurship, where individuals feel confident exploring direct selling as a flexible and credible way to earn supplementary income — and with Herbalife, they have access to a proven business opportunity backed by the training and support of a trusted global brand.”

Conducted late last year, the survey aimed to understand consumers’ perceptions towards direct selling and identify key motivating factors for starting a direct selling journey in APAC. It polled 8,000 respondents in eight countries, including Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, and Vietnam.

Trust in Direct Selling Higher Among Younger Filipinos

Across generations, trust in direct selling is higher among the younger age group. More than eight in 10 (82%) Gen Zs said they trust direct selling, compared to 78% of Boomers. The top three factors influencing consumer trust in a company are proven quality control measures (65%), well-know and recognized brand (62%) and brands that have been established for decades (59%).

"For over 40 years, Herbalife has delivered science-backed health and wellness products to consumers worldwide, including here in Philippines. We believe in offering economic opportunities to people from all walks of life and our distributors engage directly with customers and communities to educate them on good nutrition and promote positive lifestyle habits. This 'distributor difference' helps us make a tangible impact in building healthier communities everywhere we are,” said Domingo.

Women More Likely to Start Direct Selling for More Flexible Working Hours

Filipino women are more likely to cite flexible working hours as the main reason to start direct selling (34%) compared to 29% of men who said the same. The top three motivation for women to take up direct selling were wanting the opportunity to be their own boss (41%), having flexible working hours (34%) and to earn extra cash to supplement their income (30%).

In addition, local women were also more likely to view direct selling as a business opportunity suitable for anyone, with 62% of female respondents concurring with this statement compared to 51% of men.

Support Needed from Direct Selling Companies

While trust in the direct selling industry is strong, respondents also cited the possibility of financial risk, especially if they are unable to sell the products they purchase. To help mitigate this, 62% expect support from the company they buy products from and 55% want support from other people within their direct selling community. Additionally, 44% expect backing from family and friends, highlighting the social nature of the business.

“Entrepreneurship can take many forms, and direct selling remains a trusted option for Filipinos looking to start their own business. Many recognize the value of structured product knowledge, business fundamentals and personal development training to achieve longer-term success.”

“At Herbalife, we equip our independent distributors with expert-led training on health, nutrition, and our products, ensuring they can confidently guide customers. Beyond training, we focus on strong customer service levels and foster a vibrant peer-support community with mentorship. With a global network of over two million entrepreneurs, Herbalife remains committed to sharing knowledge and strategies to drive business success,” added Domingo.

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Netbank and JuanHand Sign Partnership for a Financially Inclusive Future

Netbank and JuanHand Sign Partnership for a Financially Inclusive Future

Sunday, April 13, 2025

Netbank Inc., a leader in rural banking, has partnered with JuanHand, the country's leading pure fintech lending app, to broaden its reach to the unbanked and underserved communities across the nation.

The partnership between the fintech companies will assist Filipinos of all ages in achieving their dreams and financing businesses by offering innovative lending solutions tailored to their specific needs. Attendees at the event include representatives from both organizations, such as Netbank’s Co-founder and CEO David Paulo Dela Paz and Head of Lender Amiel De Sotto. Key figures from FinVolution and WeFund Lending Corp. are also present, including FinVolution Global CEO Tiezheng “Tim” Li and President and CEO of WeFund Lending Corp., Francisco "Coco" Mauricio.

“Through embedded finance, we’re enabling JuanHand to better serve more underserved Filipinos,” said Amiel de Sotto, Head of Lenders at Netbank. “Our goal is to empower partners like JuanHand to scale faster and deliver financial services directly to those who need them the most.”

JuanHand, operated by WeFund Lending Corp., has disbursed over ₱40 billion in loans and over 12 million users. The app is famous for its fast approval, minimal requirements, and easy-to-use interface. JuanHand’s innovation, compliance, and accessibility to customer service earned it the title of the leading loan app in the country.

“We are delighted that Netbank chose JuanHand to be its lending partner,” said Francisco “Coco” Mauricio, President and CEO of WeFund Lending Corp. “This partnership will benefit millions of Filipinos and provide financial assistance anytime and anywhere they need it. With Netbank, we will continue to break through boundaries and serve every Juan without limits.”

Download the JuanHand app from Google Playstore or iOS Appstore. For more information, visit www.juanhand.com.

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Visa and USSC announce strategic issuing and Money Movement partnership to transform payment solutions

Visa and USSC announce strategic issuing and Money Movement partnership to transform payment solutions

Saturday, April 12, 2025

Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, has partnered with USSC Money Services Inc. (UMSI), on a strategic issuing and Money Movement partnership to launch Visa Direct in the Philippines. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in enhancing digital payment and remittance solutions in the region.

While often cited as one of the largest remittance-receiving countries in the world, the Philippines remains strong in the outbound money movement market, particularly for business-to-business (B2B) payments. Visa’s "Money Travels: 2024 Digital Remittances Adoption" report reveals that there is a $151-billion outbound market opportunity, the majority of which cover business-related flows. These include supplier payments, export/import, merchant settlement, and overseas procurement for goods and services for many small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Digital methods are driving cross-border payment growth too. The same report found that 58% of Filipinos prefer digital money movement methods, with many citing high fees, lengthy processing, and the need to visit a physical location as common pain points in making cross-border payments and remittances.

To foster the growth of outbound cross-border business payments in the Philippines, Visa Direct facilitates the transfer of funds directly to eligible Visa Direct cards, bank accounts, and wallets in many jurisdictions around the world. Launched over a decade ago, Visa Direct revolutionizes fund disbursements with its fast, secure, and convenient platform, reaching over 11 billion endpoints across more than 195 countries and territories and 150 currencies.

With Visa Direct, UMSI now enables many of its business clients to make faster and more efficient cross-border outbound payments to support their various business needs.

In addition to this recent partnership with UMSI to launch Visa Direct, Visa and UMSI previously collaborated on an exclusive deal to issue the U Visa Prepaid Card. Geared towards new-to-bank customers from segments such as business process outsourcing (BPO) employees and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), the U Visa Prepaid Card underscored Visa’s and UMSI’s shared commitment to boost financial inclusion.

"We are pleased to partner with UMSI to enhance digital remittance and payments services in the Philippines. Visa Direct aims to be Asia Pacific's premier real-time payment platform by focusing on continuous innovation and expanding collaborations with banks, fintechs, and digital wallets. The increasing use of digital apps for sending business payments abroad highlights the need for secure, fast, and convenient money movement solutions. Visa is dedicated to ensuring safe and efficient money transfers, enhancing the financial resilience of Filipino households, and contributing to economic growth,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Visa Country Manager for the Philippines.

"Cross-border payments and remittances have steadily converged across settlement systems, and USSC is proud to be at the forefront of this evolution in partnership with Visa. This collaboration reaffirms USSC’s commitment to serving its core markets —OFWs and underbanked Filipinos—by delivering convenient and cost-effective solutions that facilitate money movement across borders,” said UMSI President and Chief Executive Officer Jose Xavier Gonzales. “Combining its physical store infrastructure and U Mobile app with a Visa card-based wallet overlay, USSC continues to drive financial inclusion for Filipinos worldwide, helping them shift from cash to digital seamlessly," he added.

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Eastern Communications Holds Transcend Summit 2025, Launches New Loyalty Program Perks

Eastern Communications Holds Transcend Summit 2025, Launches New Loyalty Program Perks

Friday, April 11, 2025

Top industry experts explore innovation and CX strategies for business growth

Eastern Communications successfully hosted its Transcend Summit 2025 at Makati Shangri-La, on April 8, 2025, bringing together over 200 industry leaders, decision-makers, and technology experts to discuss how innovation fuels business growth, transforms challenges into opportunities, and enhances customer experience. The event spotlights Eastern Communications' mission to exceed customer expectations by delivering the latest technological insights, and reliable, high-tech, and high-touch connectivity and ICT solutions that drive digital transformation and business resilience.

The Transcend Summit features the theme, “Powering the Future Through Innovation and Customer Focus,” and is made possible through Eastern’s global tech partners Cato Networks, Fortinet, Huawei, Sophos, Cisco, CloudSigma, Nexusguard, Pax8, and official media partner The Manila Times and Malaya Business Insight.

"Transcend Summit 2025 highlighted the importance of innovative solutions, leadership, AI and customer-centric strategies in today’s dynamic business environment," stated Jaeson Evangelista, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications. “We are very grateful for our global technology partners for enabling us to share insights, emerging trends, and collaborate on future innovations as we continue to enhance our services and customer programs.”

Hosted by TEDx Host Vanessa Caro and panel discussions moderated by ABS-CBN Business News Correspondent Mimi Ong, Transcend Summit 2025 featured keynote speakers and industry panelists sharing insights on the evolving digital landscape and the role of innovation in achieving sustainable growth.

Exploring the power of innovation

Greg Banzon, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of Century Pacific Foods, Inc., delivered a keynote speech on “Harnessing Innovation to Transform Challenges into Opportunities.” Drawing from his experience and citing instances from Century Pacific’s humble beginnings in the ‘70s, he emphasized how businesses can turn obstacles into strategic advantages through technology and forward-thinking solutions, like how Century Pacific transformed to one of the country's leading manufacturers.

Meanwhile, Maulik Parekh, founder of aiVolution Asia, shared his insights on “How to Lead and Innovate with AI.” He explored AI’s disruptive impact on customer engagement, business optimization, and the essential leadership skills for success in the AI era.

Following Banzon and Parekh’s presentations was the Transcend Summit’s panel discussion with key industry experts: Pierre Curay, Vice President of the Supply Chain Management Association of the Philippines (SCMAP); Edsel Paglinawan, Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer of Eastern Communications; and Tonichi Parekh, Vice President of Concentrix.

The panelists explored the topic, “How Innovation and Customer Experience Is Critical for Business Success,” setting companies apart in an increasingly competitive digital economy. Discussions centered on how businesses can leverage emerging technologies to remain agile and competitive.

A trusted partner in digital transformation

Eastern Communications elevated customer engagement with the relaunch of The Link VIP Club, unveiling its highest membership tier, Titanium, at the MET Museum in BGC on April 3, 2025. Eastern collaborated with artists Erika Mayo, Studiokashu, and Vico Cham Artism Gallery, for an exclusive, art-inspired showcase of the program’s premiere perks to complete the customer’s VIP experience.

The newest Titanium tier provides personalized business support, premium benefits, and tailored ICT solutions, further strengthening relationships and enhancing customer experiences of Eastern’s elite partners.

"We recognize that businesses need more than just reliable solutions—they need a trusted partner who understands their unique challenges and growth ambitions. Through the Link VIP Club and the new Titanium Membership tier, we are enhancing the way we support our clients by providing an even higher level of focused support, unmatched customer experiences, and utmost level of service," said Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications.

As a trusted partner in driving business growth, Eastern Communications equips companies with the tools to navigate digital transformation with confidence. The Transcend Summit 2025 allows Eastern to share its expertise on advancing innovation, collaboration, and cutting-edge solutions that keep businesses ahead in an evolving digital landscape.

To know more about Eastern Communications’ products and services, visit the website at https://eastern.com.ph/.

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FedEx Strengthens Asia Pacific Leadership Announces Key Appointment

FedEx Strengthens Asia Pacific Leadership Announces Key Appointment

Thursday, April 10, 2025

 

L-R - Marcus Balzereit, Senior Vice President, APAC Sales & Solutions, Rumana Rahman, Vice President, APAC Human Resources, and Shanker Venkateswaran, Vice President, APAC Planning & Engineering

Federal Express Corporation, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, has expanded its leadership team in Asia Pacific (APAC) to advance business and talent strategy. Marcus Balzereit assumes the role of Senior Vice President, APAC Sales & Solutions, while Rumana Rahman joins as Vice President, APAC Human Resources, and Shanker Venkateswaran, is appointed as Vice President, APAC Planning & Engineering. By attracting and retaining top talent across all levels, the company is strategically positioning itself to seize emerging market opportunities and fuel growth across this rapidly evolving region.

With over 25 years of experience in the logistics industry, Marcus Balzereit brings extensive expertise in driving commercial success across diverse markets. In his new role, he will lead a 2,000-strong sales organization in the Asia Pacific region, driving profitable revenue growth and expanding market share. Marcus will focus on delivering differentiated solutions and strengthening customer relationships, enabling customers to fully leverage the strong FedEx value proposition.

People are the driving force behind FedEx, and its talent strategy is key to achieving its ambitious goals. With 24 years of experience in human resources across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa, Rumana Rahman brings deep expertise in shaping high-impact people strategies. In her new role, Rumana will lead talent development to cultivate a high-performance culture and evolve workforce strategies to meet the needs of a rapidly changing and diverse talent landscape.

Shanker brings over two decades of experience across business, technology, and operations, with expertise spanning multiple industries and geographies. In his new role, Shanker will lead the transformation of FedEx's ground network through design, digitization, and automation, enhancing efficiency and flexibility to meet customer demands, with focus on optimizing operations to stay ahead of market changes and exceed customer expectations.

“Building a future-ready team in Asia Pacific is a top priority,” said Kawal Preet, president of Asia Pacific at FedEx. “With these new appointments, we’re further strengthening our commitment to anticipating customer needs, driving market growth, and empowering our teams with the agility and innovation required to make a lasting impact in this fast-evolving region.”

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Ever Bilena Cosmetics Inc. supports Prince Retail Group’s 35-year milestone

Ever Bilena Cosmetics Inc. supports Prince Retail Group’s 35-year milestone

Friday, April 4, 2025

Prince Retail Group of Companies recently marked its 35th Anniversary and Partners Night with a grand celebration at Radisson Blue Hotel in Cebu.

Ever Bilenca Cosmetics Inc. (EBCI) showed its full support with founder and president and CEO Dioceldo Sy leading the delegation alongside COO Siliman Sy, retail sales manager Renato “Noel” Anel, key accounts manager Jerby Lagaday, and key accounts supervisor Reo Salubre.

Founded in 1990, Prince Retail Group of Companies is a chain of retail and wholesale stores based in Cebu City. Its leading brand, Prince Hypermart, is a one-stop shop known for its wide variety of affordable grocery, general merchandise, and department store items. Prince Hypermart is currently present all over the Philippines with stores in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

As Prince Retail Group sets its sights on reaching 100 branches by 2030, EBCI remains a strong partner, ready to meet the growing demand with its diverse range of cosmetics and personal care products.

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CCIP members Timothy Chuongco and Denice Sy speak at Retail Asia Summit 2025

CCIP members Timothy Chuongco and Denice Sy speak at Retail Asia Summit 2025

Thursday, April 3, 2025

Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines, Inc. (CCIP) members Timothy Chuongco of Cosmetique Asia Corp. (CAC) and Denice Sy of Ever Bilena Cosmetics, Inc.recently served as panelists at the Retail Asia Summit 2025, held at Makati Shangri-La.

Denice Sy joined a dynamic panel discussion on driving retail growth through e-commerce, direct selling, and social commerce trends. The conversation highlighted the importance of customer retention, emphasizing the need to analyze data to ensure that target demographics align with actual purchasing consumers. The panel also explored omnichannel strategies, stressing the challenge of ensuring that the in-store shopping experience reflects online branding, particularly in the fast-evolving beauty industry. Sy noted that while e-commerce offers quicker adaptability, the process becomes more complex when dealing with thousands of physical retail stores where Ever Bilena is present.

Joining her in the discussion were Neelam Gopwani of Vision Express, Momoi Supe of Strokes Beauty, Francis Flores of Pick Up Coffee, and Rohan Aggarwal of edamama, with Gilbert Trinchera of KPMG as moderator.

Meanwhile, Timothy Chuongco, COO of CAC, took part in a panel focused on strengthening retail partnerships and how collaboration can drive ecosystem growth across various retail scales. He emphasized the importance of aligning values with retail partners’ visions and goals, ensuring that business strategies complement each other. He shared an example where one of CAC’s trade partners prioritized sustainability—a pillar that CAC also champions. This synergy led to a full brand launch for Silka Premium Body Wash, enriched with Quali-E, the highest quality of Vitamin E, nourishing the skin while promoting environmental care.

Chuongco’s panel included Graham Coates of Megaworld, Margarita Atienza of SSI Group, and Pavan Powar of Sarisuki, moderated by Atty. Joanne Ranada of Forvis Mazars.

The Retail Asia Summit 2025 brought together industry leaders to discuss the future of retail, fostering insightful conversations on growth strategies, digital transformation, and sustainable partnerships.

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AXA PH's Chief Marketing Officer Among 2025 Mansmith ‘Marketing Mentor of the Year’ Awardees

AXA PH's Chief Marketing Officer Among 2025 Mansmith ‘Marketing Mentor of the Year’ Awardees

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

AXA Philippines Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) Fernando "Nandy" Villar has been named one of this year’s Top Marketing Mentors by Mansmith and Fielders, Inc., a leading marketing and entrepreneurship training firm in the country.

The award was given during the annual Mansmith Market Mentors Awards, which celebrates marketing leaders who have not only excelled in their fields but also mentored aspiring marketers, building legacies that foster talent and innovation. Villar joins a distinguished group of visionaries and executives committed to empowering the next generation of marketing professionals.

In his role as CMO, Villar has led transformative marketing strategies. His expertise in brand management, digital transformation, and customer engagement has strengthened AXA's market presence and developed innovative solutions for Filipinos. His leadership style, characterized by its authenticity, collaboration, and continuous learning, has inspired, and guided young professionals in the field and beyond with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to thrive in the industry.

During the awarding ceremony, Villar shared valuable insights on leadership, strategy, and mentorship, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of how successful marketing leaders approach challenges, make data-driven decisions, and connect meaningfully with their audiences. More importantly, he emphasized how mentorship transforms the industry by shaping future leaders.

“I’m honored to be recognized as one of the top marketing mentors by Mansmith and Fielders, Inc. Marketing, to me, goes beyond strategy—it’s about inspiring action and making a real difference. Being in the insurance industry makes this even more meaningful, as our purpose of protecting what matters drives us to empower people with the right protection and support so they can live life with confidence. I’m grateful for the mentors who shaped my journey and proud to pay it forward to the next generation of marketers,” shared Villar.

With leaders like Villar guiding the way, the future of marketing in the Philippines is bright. The award affirms not just his legacy but also AXA Philippines’ continuous commitment to building a resilient future-ready workforce and a robust marketing industry.

More information about AXA Philippines’ insurance solutions is available on its website www.axa.com.ph and its partner platforms.

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Knowledge Channel and AIA Philippines team up to bring health education to more Filipino students

Knowledge Channel and AIA Philippines team up to bring health education to more Filipino students

The country’s largest and only educational digital free-to-air and cable channel Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc. (KCFI) and AIA Philippines Life and General Insurance Company, Inc. (AIA Philippines), formerly Philam Life and the local arm Hong Kong based AIA Group, recently formalized their partnership at a Memorandum of Agreement signing ceremony for the AIA Healthiest Schools (AHS) program. AHS is AIA’s educational initiative that aims to empower more schools, students and communities to become healthier and more sustainable.

The collaboration extends the AHS program to 10,000 public schools in KCFI’s nationwide network and aligns with AIA's broader commitment to promoting holistic well-being, as seen in their newly launched "Rethink Healthy" campaign. This partnership will leverage KCFI’s extensive reach and expertise in educational content creation to develop and broadcast engaging health education materials for upper primary students. KCFI will produce a series of nine 10-minute episodes on key AHS topics such as healthy eating, active living, and mental well-being, with scope recommended by the Department of Education. The episodes will be accessible through free-to-air television, cable, satellite, and online channels.

This initiative supports AIA’s goal of making healthy living more accessible and inclusive for all Filipinos. Much like AIA’s Rethink Healthy campaign, it addresses the physical and mental well-being of young students through engaging educational content and empowering them to instill healthy habits early in life, ultimately contributing to a healthier future for the nation.

"We are thrilled to partner with AIA Philippines to bring the AIA Healthiest Schools program to more young Filipinos in the country," said KCFI President and Executive Director Rina Lopez Bautista. "This partnership will enable us to create and deliver high-quality, holistic health educational content that will empower students to make informed choices about their overall well-being. We believe this initiative will contribute significantly to creating healthier generations."

"The AIA Healthiest Schools program is designed to create a more inclusive environment that supports the health and well-being of students, in ways that are attainable, practical and sustainable for them,” said AIA Philippines Chief Marketing Officer Melissa Henson. “By joining forces with Knowledge Channel Foundation, we're amplifying the program's impact and ensuring that its vital lessons reach a wider audience. We're confident that this partnership will empower more students to take control of their health, well-being, and future."

Learn more about the AIA Healthiest Schools program at https://ahs.aia.com/au/en/ To know more about Rethink Healthy, visit https://www.aia.com.ph/en/health-and-wellness/rethink-healthy

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Manulife Philippines Appoints Amy Gochuico as Manulife China Bank Life President and CEO

Manulife Philippines Appoints Amy Gochuico as Manulife China Bank Life President and CEO

Manulife Philippines, the local arm of leading international financial services provider Manulife, and Manulife China Bank Life (MCBL), the strategic alliance between Manulife Philippines and China Banking Corporation, announce the appointment of Amy Gochuico as MCBL’s President and CEO, effective 01 April 2025.

Gochuico joins Manulife Philippines with over 30 years of insurance and leadership experience across various Asian markets and organizations, specializing in bancassurance for two decades. Before her appointment, she served as Manulife Indonesia’s Chief Bancassurance Officer from 2021, where she was responsible for the Bancassurance channel’s overall growth and profitability.

“We’re excited to welcome Amy back to the Philippines as part of Manulife’s executive committee. During her time at Manulife Indonesia, she ensured sustainable and consistent growth for the Company’s Bancassurance business to meet its long-term commitments,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines.

Hora added, “As MCBL President and CEO, she will lead overall partnership management, deliver growth, develop our distribution team and bench strength, manage key business risks, and ensure quality outcomes that can help Manulife become the number one choice for our customers.”

Manulife China Bank Life is the strategic alliance between Manulife Philippines and China Banking Corporation.

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Coca-Cola Philippines and Partners Help Empower 2,000 Women Entrepreneurs Through iSTAR Program

Coca-Cola Philippines and Partners Help Empower 2,000 Women Entrepreneurs Through iSTAR Program

Monday, March 31, 2025

The Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation (NWTF), a long-time partner of Coca-Cola Philippines, hosted the first-ever Hybrid Mass Graduation Ceremony for the iSTAR Program in Bacolod, Negros Occidental on February 1, 2025. This milestone aligns with Coca-Cola Philippines’ commitment to economic empowerment, particularly for women in grassroots communities.

The graduation ceremony brought together 2,000 graduates who joined in person or virtually, and reinforced the program’s role in uplifting women entrepreneurs nationwide.

This marked a major achievement for the iSTAR Program in Western Visayas, particularly in Region VI, highlighting its role in equipping entrepreneurs with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to build and sustain their businesses.

“For over 112 years, Coca-Cola Philippines has been refreshing the lives of Filipinos and making a positive difference in our communities, said Ivanna Dela Torre, Senior Director of Public Affairs, Communication, and Sustainability at Coca-Cola Philippines.

The event was attended by key TESDA (Technical Education & Skills Development Authority) officials, including Director General Sec. Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez, Deputy Director General for Special Concerns Felizardo R. Colombo, Executive Director of the Partnerships and Linkages Office Floramel Joy C. Songsong, Chief of the National Training Center for Women Mylene H. Somera, and TESDA regional and provincial representatives.

Strengthening partnerships for greater impact

iSTAR graduate and Sari-sari Store and Bakery owner Catherine Gallano, shared how the program equipped her with the essential skills and knowledge for her entrepreneurial success. Through the initiative’s digital learning platform, she also gained confidence in financial management and customer engagement, allowing her to expand her business.

“The iSTAR program has been incredibly beneficial as it empowers women like me to run a sustainable business, allowing us to earn a living and enhance our quality of life”, she shared.

The success of the iSTAR Program is driven by the strong collaboration between Coca-Cola Philippines, TESDA, and the NWTF. TESDA has played a key role in expanding the program’s reach by providing training and certification, as well as making iSTAR’s modules free and accessible nationwide through the TESDA Online Program, ensuring more aspiring entrepreneurs can benefit from the initiative.

“You get addicted to learning; you get addicted to [the] growth of learning for yourself and sharing your learning through training others as well. Spread the message: TESDA is here to make sure that no Filipino potential goes to waste. We are here to ensure that you have the skills that you need for whatever you or your family aspires for. That we are here to help you from training to [trabaho],” said Sec. Benitez.

The NWTF has been instrumental in implementing iSTAR in grassroots communities. Its commitment to championing entrepreneurship has played a key role in ensuring that program participants—especially women—receive the necessary training and support to sustain their businesses.

"Loans are just part of it; we need loans to have capital, but the heart of Project Dungganon is to support, maximize, and protect the business. iSTAR is one of the programs Dungganon delivers in order to capacitate our members to better their businesses,” said Gilbert Stephan Maramba, Director for Operations at the NWTF.

Expanding support through Centers for Entrepreneurship

Launched in 2020, the iSTAR Program is a free entrepreneurship training initiative by Coca-Cola Philippines and TESDA. It is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills for starting and managing retail businesses through digital platforms.

In July 2024, Coca-Cola Philippines launched Centers for Entrepreneurship (CFEs) in seven key areas under the iSTAR Program. These hubs serve as sustainable spaces for ongoing training, mentorship, and financial support, ensuring that small business owners have access to resources that help them thrive.

“To our graduates, your journey does not end here. The CFEs are your "go-to" spaces for continuous learning, business mentoring, and exploring new opportunities for innovation. As graduates, you are always welcome to visit the NWTF CFE, where you’ll find support and guidance to help you grow and sustain your businesses,” Dela Torre added.

For more information about the iSTAR Program, visit the Coca-Cola Philippines Sustainability Hub: https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/brands/coca-cola/sustainability.

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CCIP, IPOPHL, and eCommerce giants join forces against online fakes

CCIP, IPOPHL, and eCommerce giants join forces against online fakes

Friday, March 28, 2025

The Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP) has joined forces with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) to intensify efforts in protecting intellectual property (IP) rights in the eCommerce space. In a landmark move, 18 CCIP member companies signed the E-Commerce Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during CCIP’s 1st General Membership Meeting at the GG8 Building in San Juan City.

The agreement establishes a framework for closer coordination between brand owners and eCommerce platforms to curb the online sale of counterfeit and pirated products. By facilitating faster detection and takedown of IP-infringing content, the initiative strengthens industry-wide efforts to uphold product authenticity and consumer safety in the digital marketplace.

Among the companies that committed to the MOU are: Amway Philippines LLC; Chemworld Marketing Corp.; Chromaesthetics, Inc. Elegant Fumes Beauty Products, Inc.; Ever Bilena Cosmetics Inc.; Green Cross, Inc.; GT Cosmetics Manufacturing Inc.; Ivy Andrea Beauty Corp.; JRadiance Corp.; Kimiki Solutions, Inc.; Personal Collection Direct Selling, Inc.; Prime Global Corp.; Rainiers Research & Development Institute, Inc.; Scentful Lifestyle Concepts OPC; Snoe Beaute Produits, Inc.; UL Skin Sciences, Inc.; Vivanti Executive Advantage, Inc.; Z Lab International Corp.

Under the MOU, CCIP member companies will work closely with eCommerce platforms, including TikTok Shop, Lazada, Shopee, and Zalora—who are also signatories—to swiftly remove listings of counterfeit cosmetics and personal care products. While IPOPHL is not a signatory to the MOU, it plays a key role as a facilitator in onboarding interested platforms, brand owners, and industry associations. Additionally, IPOPHL serves as the convener for an annual review and assessment of the MOU to evaluate its effectiveness.

“The rise of counterfeit products online poses a growing threat to both businesses and consumers. Through this partnership, we are taking a proactive stance in safeguarding brand integrity and ensuring that Filipinos have access to safe, authentic products,” said Dr. Janina Tan Rch, executive vice president for external affairs of CCIP.

This initiative marks a significant milestone in strengthening intellectual property enforcement in the cosmetics and personal care sector, reinforcing the industry's commitment to a fair and trustworthy digital marketplace.

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Empowering Excellence: How Women Leaders at FedEx Philippines Are Helping Shape an Inclusive Future

Empowering Excellence: How Women Leaders at FedEx Philippines Are Helping Shape an Inclusive Future

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

FedEx Philippines is a proud advocate of our inclusive culture, and nowhere is this more evident than in the journeys of its remarkable women leaders.

These leaders -- Maribeth Espinosa, Jenieryll Jomarie Mangalindan, Anne Marie Liwag-Inawat, and Maria Isabel Novero-Benitez -- illustrate how the company’s "People-Service-Profit" (PSP) philosophy, including its focus on equal opportunity for all, empowers employees to excel, regardless of gender, background, or role.

These shared stories attest to the positive transformation that occurs when organizations provide opportunities for everyone to thrive.

Leadership Without Limits

With a background in chemistry, Maribeth Espinosa, Managing Director of FedEx Philippines, began her career as a Dangerous Goods agent and steadily rose through the ranks—driven by skill, teamwork, and an unshakable commitment to growth.

“I’m not a female leader. I’m a leader. Nothing more, nothing less,” she asserts.

Maribeth credits much of her success to the FedEx People-Service-Profit (PSP) philosophy, which underscores the belief that when employees are valued and supported, they perform at their best.

“FedEx policies and programs create a culture where employees feel safe, respected, and empowered,” she says, reinforcing the importance of equity in the workplace. Through this philosophy, she not only makes strategic decisions but also cultivates future leaders through mentorship, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to spread their wings and create an impact.

Growth Through a People-First Culture

Jenieryll Jomarie Mangalindan, Senior Manager of Operations, exemplifies adaptability and a desire for professional development. Starting as an accountant, she found her calling in operations. Her transition to a role outside her original field was made possible by the FedEx culture which promotes inclusivity and personal growth. Jomarie manages a team of over 200 people, finding strength in diversity.

“A culturally competent and inclusive workplace is one where team members bring their authentic selves to work with great confidence,” she explains.

Jomarie’s leadership style revolves around effective project management, which she believes is enriched by diversity. “Each team member brings unique strengths to the table, enabling us to achieve operational excellence together,” she says, underscoring how the company’s inclusive environment paves the way for innovation and efficiency.

Leading with Skill and Integrity

Anne Marie Liwag-Inawat's journey from accounting to Senior Manager of Sales exemplifies the company’s commitment to fostering a culture where desire for growth is nurtured and enabled.

“Growth and professional development at FedEx are never about gender -- it’s about skills, competency, and a willingness to learn,” she says.

For Anne, mentoring isn’t just part of her leadership—it’s the foundation of it. Her “Three-Question Rule” instills accountability and fosters a culture of self-driven growth, all within a framework of strong support. Under this approach, team members can seek her guidance on the same topic up to three times. After that, they are encouraged to trust their own knowledge and problem-solving abilities to find a solution. This method doesn’t just build confidence—it cultivates resilience and independent thinking, empowering Anne’s team to take ownership of their roles.

Anne emphasizes the importance of setting a purposeful path for success, such as having a five-year plan or a goal to master a new skill. “It’s about making conscious choices, being decisive, and taking ownership of your career,” she advises, illustrating how FedEx’s culture supports individual ambition and nurtures self-driven growth.

Empathy and Excellence in Customer Service

With a career spanning over two decades in the logistics industry, Maria Isabel Novero-Benitez has established herself as a stalwart, creative, and adept planner. In her role as Senior Manager for Customer Experience Operations, she leads with empathy, a value central to FedEx Purple Promise of making every FedEx experience outstanding.

She emphasizes how understanding and valuing different perspectives strengthen both employee satisfaction and customer relationships. “We don’t discriminate based on race, gender, religion, disability, or any other protected status - we look at their skillset, what they can contribute and how they can help in fulfilling our Purple Promise. Making sure that our people feel how much they matter inspires them, and inspired employees do better at their jobs,” she explains.

Through data-driven insights and a commitment to continuous improvement, Isabel ensures her team anticipates and meets customer needs while fostering an inclusive work environment, driving her team up for success. For her, success goes beyond achieving goals; it involves finding fulfillment in the journey and respecting the unique perspectives of everyone.

Building a Legacy

The stories of these women leaders are about actively shaping a more inclusive future for the entire logistics industry.

FedEx initiatives supporting career opportunities for all continue to empower its employees to achieve unprecedented heights.

Learn more about FedEx Philippines here.

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