Wadhwani Foundation enhances school-to-work journey in PH with AI and $1M annual grant funding per organization

Wadhwani Foundation enhances school-to-work journey in PH with AI and $1M annual grant funding per organization

Saturday, December 7, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

Boosting Job Creation in PH

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Organizations can get  more information about the Wadhwani GenieAI at web.opportunity.wfglobal.org and apply for the grant via the Foundation’s website at www.wadhwanifoundation.org.

Read More

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

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

Friday, December 6, 2024

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

Revolutionizing Identification and Payment

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

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

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

Supporting PCG’s Digital Transformation

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

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

Key Features of beep™-Enabled ID Cards

The beep™-enabled ID cards offer PCG personnel:

Cashless Convenience: Seamless payment options across public transportation and partner retail stores.

Exclusive Rewards: Access to beep™ promotions, freebies, and rewards points.

Efficiency in Transactions: Streamlined processes for both professional and personal use.

Expanding the Scope of beep™ Technology

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

Partner with AF Payments Inc.

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

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

(02) 87379600 (Landline)

09175121319 (Globe Line)

09985819675 (Smart Line)

Read More

Eastern Communications Partners with Industry Experts to Share Cybersecurity Insights for Business Protection

Eastern Communications Partners with Industry Experts to Share Cybersecurity Insights for Business Protection

Friday, November 22, 2024

In observance of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Eastern Communications spoke with industry leaders for insights to help businesses safeguard themselves from the growing threat of cyberattacks.

Between January and August 2024, the Philippine National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-PH) reported over 2,000 cyber incidents affecting various organizations. This is part of a broader rise in cybercrimes in the country, with the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) documenting a 21.8% increase in cybercrime cases during the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

From January to March 2024, ACG recorded 4,469 cybercrimes — an average of 49 cases per day compared to 40 in 2023. Online selling scams topped the list, followed by investment scams and credit/debit card fraud. This surge signals a sharp rise in cyberattacks across the Philippines, highlighting the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures.

Meanwhile, anti-scam app Whoscall reported a 200% surge in the number of scam calls and messages between January and August 2024, with over 3 million reported text scams and more than 320,000 scam calls.

Forms of cyber attacks have also changed, and cybercriminals are becoming more ICT-enabled as they resort to technologies like Fake Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) to directly attack users by sending spam and fraudulent SMS messages.

To address these escalating challenges, Eastern Communications’ Thoughts on Tech podcast series featured in-depth discussions with tech experts, exploring critical cybersecurity topics. These include the government’s role in mitigating cyber threats, safeguarding customer data, managing information technology (IT) risks for enterprises, and the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence (AI).

Cybersecurity Solutions for Every Business

Cybersecurity was once seen as an optional and additional cost for many businesses. Today, it is an essential investment for both small enterprises and large corporations. Rex Evangelista, Head of IT at Eastern Communications, noted this change of perspective for cybersecurity.

“I would say that in terms of the importance of the organizations and the shift of organizations in the companies, they are now able to understand the importance of security in their organization,” he said, adding that mitigating cyber risks also protects a company’s reputation.

Evangelista also noted the importance of proactive cybersecurity strategies to mitigate the risks and maintain business continuity.

“They have to liken to insurance, that if [attacks] happen, somehow they are covered. The cybersecurity solutions are actually there to make sure that operations will continue, it will not be disrupted,” he explained.

Educating employees and spreading cybersecurity awareness is another need for a company to ensure employees are also protected against cyber threats, according to Evangelista.

Securing Customer Trust and Data

For businesses, especially in the finance industry, securing customer data is paramount. Pancho Reyna, Managing Director of AI, Data, and Engineering of UBX (UnionBank’s digital arm), emphasized the evolving nature of cyberattacks and the necessity of robust security measures.

“From a cybersecurity perspective, the technology is also rapidly evolving and can be used for any malicious or any form of attacks,” he said.

Reyna shared that cybersecurity in the finance industry is not just about prevention, but also deterrence. “It’s making sure that your systems are difficult, if not impossible, to penetrate,” he explained.

Businesses should anticipate attacks and implement security layers that make them harder targets. Reyna also noted that business owners should be aware of their cybersecurity needs and adopt these necessities accordingly to protect themselves against cyber risks.

The Government's Role Against Cyberthreats

Cybersecurity is not only the sole responsibility of the private sector. Jeffrey Ian Dy, Undersecretary - Infostructure Management, Cybersecurity and Upskilling of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) highlights the government’s efforts to protect the country against cyberattacks and offers key lessons for businesses.

Dy pointed out that while the finance industry is more susceptible to cyber threats, no industry is actually safe from these attacks. The government, telecommunications companies, and the academe are also the most targeted institutions, especially for advanced persistent threats (APTs) like state-sponsored attacks, and cyber terrorism.

The undersecretary emphasized that understanding both the offensive and defensive sides of cybersecurity is crucial.

“Hacking is a lot easier now, and that's the problem. The cost of offensive cyber security capabilities is less than the cost of defending,” Dy said. This means businesses must proactively strengthen their defenses.

He added that small and large businesses alike must prioritize cybersecurity investments in critical areas, such as securing Wi-Fi access points and implementing strong password protocols.

The government’s National Cybersecurity Plan 2028 brings together multiple agencies to address cybercrime. However, Dy stressed that this fight requires cooperation from all sectors, including private businesses.

“Security is not about securing everything. It's focusing your money on where it matters the most. In that way, you can significantly lessen your security cost,” the undersecretary advised.

Understanding AI: Opportunities, Threats, and Training Your People

AI is a double-edged sword that offers both opportunities and risks. Catz Jalandoni, Country Head of the Global AI Council Philippines, emphasized that businesses must understand AI's potential, while also preparing for its associated threats.

AI can streamline business operations, drive innovation, and even help businesses stay competitive — 89% of Filipino leaders agree that AI adoption is key to remaining competitive. Jalandoni noted that AI is one of the tools that is easy to learn and is easy to access, with numerous free online courses available for users.

“Technology is a tool, use it, so that it will benefit you, and embrace it so that you are able to do more things that you thought are impossible or you are incapable of,” she said.

However, like any new technology, Jalandoni warned that AI can still be used. To prevent this, she introduced the concept of “mothering” AI, which involves teaching AI to behave ethically.

“When you mother, you say not only how it's supposed to be done, but also whether it's right or wrong. And that's something that I'm championing, for people to actually ‘mother’ your AI,” Jalandoni explained. “You can teach it not only how to find information that is relevant to you, but how to access information that can actually be functional for you and what type of information it should be accessing.”

Strengthening Your Cyber Defenses

As cyber threats continue to evolve, businesses must stay ahead of potential risks by investing in the right technology, training their people, and adopting proactive security measures. Eastern Communications offers a suite of ICT solutions designed to help businesses protect their data and operations, from secure network solutions to robust cybersecurity tools.

Eastern has also partnered with the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) in mounting a special session entitled "Strengthening Cybersecurity in the Philippines: Best Practices, Emerging Threats, and Future-Proofing Strategies," on October 30, 2024, at Robert Sears Hall, AmCham Philippines, Makati City. The event will help businesses learn how to stay ahead of the curve and ensure their company's resilience in the face of evolving cyber challenges.

For more information on how Eastern Communications can help your business defend against cyber threats, contact 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph.

Read More

Alipay+ mobile payment partner users can now scan and pay with interoperable NEPALPAY QR while visiting Nepal

Alipay+ mobile payment partner users can now scan and pay with interoperable NEPALPAY QR while visiting Nepal

Monday, November 11, 2024

More than 875,000 merchants in Nepal can seamlessly accept cross-border mobile payments from travelers from Asia and beyond

Nepal Clearing House Limited (NCHL), prominent operator driving majority of the digital payment systems in Nepal, and Ant International, a digital payment and financial technology leader, have jointly announced the launch of cross-border payments between NEPALPAY QR and Alipay+. The launch was announced at the global premier financial services platform, Singapore Fintech Festival 2024 by Mr. Edward Yue, General Manager of Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand,Ant International, and Mr.Neelesh Man Singh Pradhan, CEO of NCHL, in the presence of Mr. Vishrut Thapa, Chairman of NCHL, Mr. Douglas Feagin, President of Ant International, other representatives of both the organizations and various global dignitaries, delegates and attendees.

The launch will mark the dawn of cross-border QR based payments enabling the travelers from 10 countries and regions including the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong SAR China, Macao SAR China, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Mongolia, Thailand, South Korea, and Italy to use their home payment app, including leading e-wallets and bank apps, to pay at more than 875,000 merchants associated with interoperable NEPALPAY QR network in Nepal.Alipay+ will enable its following partners for use in Nepal via NEPALPAY QR for a seamless cross-border payment experience: Alipay (Chinese mainland) AlipayHK (Hong Kong SAR), Tinaba (Italy), MPay (Macao SAR), Touch ‘n Go eWallet and MyPB by Public Bank Berhad (Malaysia), Hipay (Mongolia), GCash (the Philippines), Changi Pay and OCBC Digital (Singapore), Naver Pay and Toss Pay (South Korea), and TrueMoney (Thailand).

Mr. Vishrut Thapa, Chairman, NCHL said: I am delighted to see one of the first QR payment linkage between Nepal and Alipay+ that has been rolled out within just six months since the MOU between both the partners was signed. This achievement is surely in line with the strategic plan of the Nepal Rastra Bank to enable our retail payment system for global payment linkages. It is also a testament to our close cooperation, commitment and collaboration between NCHL and Ant International to create seamless cross-border payment connectivity.

Neelesh Man Singh Pradhan, Chief Executive Officer, NCHL, said: “This is the first ever rollout announcement of cross-border payments for NEPALPAY QR and our interoperable QR.We are extremely delighted to showcase Nepal’s QR scheme and our retail payment system in the global arena. This partnership will help foster the tourism sector in Nepal and also expected to enable seamless cross-border digital payments for the travelers of various countries who choose Nepal as their preferred destination. This partnership between NCHL and Alipay+ for enabling merchant payments is a major milestone for both the entities for their commitment towards fostering global partnerships.”

Edward Yue, General Manager for Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Ant International said: “Nepal stands to benefit from tourism growth, given a growing preference for more sustainable and unique experiences, and together with NCHL, we’re proud to support joint innovation to benefit both local businesses and global consumers. Standardized QR paymentslike NEPALPAY QR are a visionary development towards more vibrant and inclusive growth– and with tourism expected to grow even further in the coming year, we’re excited to support our partners and merchants in Nepal and around the world towards a new future of travel.”

The launch follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed between NCHL and Ant International in May 2024.

Read More

Alipay+ transactions triple in 2024 as travel industry embraces cross-border digital payment and marketing technology

Alipay+ transactions triple in 2024 as travel industry embraces cross-border digital payment and marketing technology

Thursday, October 10, 2024

Alipay+, Ant International’s cross-border mobile payment and digitalization solution, revealed three trends shaping the future of tourism to the benefit of global merchants and the industry.

“Tourism’s importance to economic growth makes it essential for the industry to pursue innovation and new partnerships so that more people can benefit,” said Douglas Feagin, President of Ant International. “Our Alipay+ solution has evolved to include cross-border payments, destination marketing and digital lifestyle services, and we have seen significant adoption as more consumers embrace technology to enhance their travel experience. We believe in a collaborative open approach and will work closely with partners across the industry towards a new future of travel.”

1) Travelers prefer their home payment methods to the benefits of merchants abroad

Alipay+ enables travelers to use their familiar home payment app when going abroad. An expanding merchant coverage and a strong travel recovery, Alipay+ has seen a surge in transactions globally. By using Alipay+, cross-border travelers can experience a new country or market and pay like a local.

Alipay for Chinese consumers – and an Alipay+ partner – has been accepted by global merchants starting from 2015, and continues to see steady growth in global transactions.

Alipay+’s mobile payment partners from around the world have also seen significant growth. In the first nine months of 2024, the number of people using an Alipay+ payment partner apps while abroad increased by three times, and the number of transactions increased by more than three times.

As of October 2024, Alipay+ has more than 30 payment partners, including leading e-wallets and bank apps from Asia and beyond, with 1.6 billion consumers, connecting consumers to more than 90 million merchants in 66 markets.

To allow more businesses to benefit from tourism, Alipay+ is continually expanding its merchant coverage, through initiatives such as the national QR schemes that enable inclusive growth at scale, particularly for SMEs. For example, through PayNet’s DuitNow QR in Malaysia, Alipay+ has seen transactions increase on average by 142% per quarter in the first nine months in 2024. This ease of transaction allows travelers to easily visit smaller cities, driving significant growth in areas like Kota Kinabalu, Selangor and Penang.

Travelers are also using their payment apps online for pre-trip bookings. Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), that accept Alipay+ payment partners have seen transactions increase by two times over the same period. Other than through OTAs, Alipay+ is also accepted on other travel platforms including by top airlines, such as Thai Airways, Malaysian Airlines and AirAsia, hotels, attraction sites and more.

2) Travelers spend more, with a shift toward localized experiences

Alipay+ payment partners include top payment apps from across Asia, such as Alipay (Chinese mainland), AlipayHK (Hong Kong SAR), Touch ‘n Go eWallet (Malaysia), GCash (the Philippines), KakaoPay, Toss Pay and Naver Pay (South Korea), OCBC (Singapore), TrueMoney (Thailand) and more. Asian travelers are visiting more regional destinations, with the highest number of Alipay+ transactions recorded in the Chinese mainland, Japan, Thailand, Macao SAR and South Korea.

Travel spending habits have also shifted since the Covid pandemic. While travelers are spending more overall, they are spending less on shopping and more on localized experiences. Spending via Alipay+ increasing by 80% on Food & Beverage (F&B) merchants and 50% for attractions. Spending via Alipay+ on transportation such as ride-hailing, taxis and trains have increased by 120%, in line with recent trends to explore destinations more independently.

3) All-in-one payment apps are reshaping travel habits

All-in-one payment apps offering additional services beyond payment have quickly become the go-to technology for Asian travellers. For example, TrueMoney, an Alipay+ payment partner from Thailand, saw its transaction volume through Alipay+ increase over 10-fold since launch. While Asia is the leader in mobile payments, there is also a growing trend for mobile solutions in other regions as seen by the emergence of e-wallets like Tinaba in Italy and interoperable solutions like Bluecode across Europe.

Alipay+’s partner e-wallets and merchants are increasingly leveraging Alipay+ digital tools to enhance the travel experience for users, offering seamless service and engagement for every step of their journey.

Tourism boards and merchants can use A+Rewards, a customizable destination marketing platform, to increase visibility of local attractions, shops and travel information even before a trip starts. In Southeast Asia, where Alipay+ is widely accepted, the number of claimed destination vouchers from A+Rewards increased by 53% across key campaigns in 2024. 

Additionally, merchants can leverage the vast user base of Alipay+ payment partners with customizable digital lifestyle services such as for transport, food, tax refunds and more. A notable example is FREENOW, a leading European taxi service, which launched a mini-program directly within Alipay+ partner apps.

Read More

Philippines Consumer Security Survey Reveals Highest Demand for Mobile App Security in 4 Years

Philippines Consumer Security Survey Reveals Highest Demand for Mobile App Security in 4 Years

Friday, September 27, 2024

Latest Philippines security survey adds the consumer voice; challenging brands to do more to protect end users from AI & social engineering attacks while supporting industry standards like OWASP.

Appdome, the one-stop shop for mobile app defense, today announced the results of its 4th Annual Philippines Consumer Survey of Mobile App Security here at the Rootcon18 Conference. The survey reveals that mobile end users are keenly aware of the growing security, fraud, and privacy threats when they use mobile apps and demand that mobile brands and enterprises step forward to provide real defenses to these threats. The survey reveals a crucial opportunity for mobile brands in the Philippines to stand out by prioritizing mobile app security and creating a better user experience when attacks happen.

To create the 2024 survey, Appdome partnered with the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP). The voice of the Filipino consumer was clear – not only do they demand the protections included in the OWASP MAS standard, but the survey data reveals a challenge to the entire mobile industry in the Philippines to improve the state of the art of mobile app protection.

The 2024 Philippines survey data adds to the 120,000+ consumer voices gathered from 12 countries over the past four years, making the Appdome Global Consumer Survey the largest single collection of consumer data on mobile app security, privacy, anti-fraud, and other attack vectors. Mobile applications have taken center stage in consumers’ daily life. Mobile app protection – consisting of mobile app security, malware defense, fraud prevention, and privacy – is now critical to the way consumers choose and use mobile apps, and also critical in whether they choose to stay with and promote a brand.

“Cyber professionals work tirelessly to keep applications, networks, transactions, and users safe while Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other attacks increase,” said Tom Tovar, co-creator and CEO of Appdome. “Filipino consumers continue their march upward in recognizing the importance of this work and it’s clear that they overwhelmingly support a broadening cyber, anti-fraud, anti-malware, anti-bot mandate, and higher OWASP standard, inside brand and enterprise mobile apps everywhere.”

Several upward trends are revealed in the 2024 data, including consumers’ use of mobile apps, their awareness of mobile attack vectors, the growing expectation of protection in apps and consumers’ willingness to be brand advocates if protected. Here are some of the cyber expectations in mobile apps that hit all-time highs in the 2024 Survey:

Mobile vs. Web: 54.7% of Filipino consumers say they use mobile applications more than web, dwarfing preference for online/web at 12.2%. Furthermore, 74.2% say that their use of mobile apps has increased over the last 12 months.

eWallet / Payment apps: 61.6% of Filipinos say they use eWallet / Payments most often, nearly doubling the rate at which global consumers use eWallet / Payment apps (31.7%)

Total Mobile Protection: 97.5% —the highest level ever— of Filipino consumers demand total protection in mobile apps including mobile app data, account integrity, login, data storage, data in transit, and protection from malware and fraud.

Hacking, Fraud, Malware and Social Engineering Scams: 67.6% of Filipino consumers are concerned about hacking while 42.4% fear mobile fraud. A substantial 45.3% have been the victims of cyber-attacks and malware, while 36.4% have encountered social engineering scams.

Fraud Prevention: 87.5% —the highest level ever— of Filipino consumers demand brands proactively prevent mobile fraud from happening rather than reimburse them post-fraud.

Features vs. Security: 91.6% —the highest level ever— of Filipino consumers say that mobile app protection is equally or more important than mobile app features in their decision to use a mobile app, with 98.7% saying they evaluate the security claims of the brand before downloading a mobile app.

Frustrated with Inaction: 30.0% - the highest level ever – of Filipino consumers fear “developers don’t care” about protecting the mobile app. This is 25.0% higher than the global average.

Mobile consumers maintained strong perspectives on these top trends in the 2024 survey: Rewarding Secure Brands: 97.5% —the highest level ever— of respondents state they will become brand advocates for mobile brands that protect their apps and use. More than half (56.4%) said they would use the highest forms of advocacy, such as app store reviews or social media endorsements.

Consequences for Insecure Apps: 76.3% —the highest level ever— of respondents state they would abandon a mobile brand for failing to protect their app and use.

“It’s clear that consumers are taking mobile brand promises and the emerging threat of AI attacks seriously,” said Alan Bavosa, VP of Security Products at Appdome. “AI-based attacks will take mobile app risks to a new level, and mobile brands and enterprises need to change their cyber delivery models to meet the accelerating threat head on and maintain user trust and engagement on mobile platforms.”

To obtain Appdome’s 4th Annual “Philippines Consumer Expectations of Mobile App Security Survey,” please visit the Appdome Consumer Expectations on Mobile App Security survey page.

Read More

AI and IoT: The tools for building a sustainable future in Philippines manufacturing

AI and IoT: The tools for building a sustainable future in Philippines manufacturing

Friday, September 13, 2024

The future of Philippines manufacturing hinges on its ability to embrace sustainability. As climate change intensifies and regulatory landscapes evolve, companies that fail to prioritize Environmental, Sustainability, and Governance (ESG) priorities will face significant risks, from reputational damage to financial penalties. Fujitsu is empowering Philippines manufacturers to not only meet these challenges but to leverage them as opportunities for innovation and growth.

A new generation of manufacturers 

The Philippines manufacturing sector, being a major contributor to environmental impact, leads the charge in this movement. This shift is driven by the urgent need to combat climate change, adapt to regulatory changes, and build a better environment for future generations. Today’s manufacturers are adopting circular economy principles to reduce waste and create new business opportunities through recycling and reusing materials.

“Sustainability for us means driving transformation for our customers while maintaining high efficiency, so we use less resources to achieve better results,” said Randy Escuyos, Head of Wireless Business Unit at Fujitsu Philippines. “We use IoT devices and AI solutions to enable data-driven decision making to help connect the manufacturing process and analyze issues and risks. This enables us to accelerate collaboration, maintain efficiency, and enhance product design and manufacturing, while considering the environmental impact.”

Leading companies locally have made significant investments in promoting sustainable practices within their supply chains, putting emphasis on the importance of responsible sourcing and carbon emission reduction throughout their operations. These efforts collectively underscore the growing importance of sustainability within the manufacturing sector.

However, many companies both locally and abroad struggle to formulate the right ESG strategy that also serves their business goals. Integrating new systems into established workflows can be complex and resource intensive. This means engaging all levels of the organization, from top management to operational staff, to ensure successful implementation. Accurate measurement and transparent reporting are also critical for continuous improvement.

Digital innovation is an enabler for sustainability transformation 

Any organizational transformation, including implementing ESG principles in the manufacturing sector requires changes in people, processes, and technology. To truly transform businesses using digital innovation to bring about positive change in our environment, society and economies, organizations need to change the mindsets of their people and their business processes. 

With this, technology companies have formulated solutions that will help organizations meet their environmental, social and governance goals. Fujitsu believes that data-driven management, which connects leadership with on-the-ground operation, is the key to addressing sustainability transformation challenges. For example, the company has been pioneering a data-driven approach in the Enterprise Resource Planning field and building a strong foundation for effective data use. Fujitsu is now applying its expertise to the ESG field to help create positive social impact.

The company also leverages strategic partnerships to expand its eco-system. "Collaboration is key to achieving ESG goals. By partnering with Cloud and SaaS leaders like SAP, ServiceNow and Microsoft - to name a few, we can co-create solutions that are tailored to the unique needs of the Philippines’ manufacturing sector, driving both environmental and economic benefits,” said Escuyos.

In the Philippines, there is a growing recognition of driving sustainability in business operations. “The first step to develop a successful ESG strategy is to assess the organization’s current ESG practices and identify gaps. Organizations need to set clear, measurable goals and create detailed action plans to achieve them. Implementing a robust risks management and monitoring system is also key to executing a successful ESG strategy,” Escuyos added.

Fujitsu offers comprehensive services that support every stage of the sustainable manufacturing process, from strategy development and execution to data collection and visualization. By providing organizations with tailored solutions, Fujitsu can help organizations navigate their unique ESG challenges and drive meaningful sustainable outcomes.

For more information on Fujitsu’s sustainable manufacturing solutions and how they can transform your business, visit Fujitsu Philippines’ official website at https://www.fujitsu.com/ph.

Read More

DoubleVerify Releases Guide to Boost Ad Performance in APAC

DoubleVerify Releases Guide to Boost Ad Performance in APAC

Sunday, September 1, 2024

DoubleVerify (DV), a leader in digital media authentication, announced today the release of a new guide The Power of Media Quality – How APAC Marketers Can Leverage Media Quality for Better Advertising ROI. DV’s 2023 report in partnership with WARC found that a significant portion of marketers in Asia Pacific (APAC) fail to evaluate digital media buys against core quality metrics. The research concluded that only 17 percent of APAC marketers evaluate critical media quality indicators like brand safety and suitability, viewability, fraud or intended geography. This new guide aims to empower advertisers across the APAC region with the knowledge and tools needed to enhance the effectiveness of their ad campaigns through verification.

Key highlights from The Power of Media Quality – How APAC Marketers Can Leverage Media Quality for Better Advertising ROI include:

Navigating today’s digital media landscape: With the proliferation of digital channels such as social, streaming, gaming and shopping platforms, advertisers are presented with unprecedented opportunities to engage their customers. However, ensuring media quality amidst this growth is essential for campaign success.

Charting your territory: The guide outlines the four pillars of media quality: brand safety and suitability, viewability, fraud and intended geography. Understanding and addressing these pillars is crucial for enhancing campaign effectiveness and mitigating risks. 

Achieving quality in any environment: DV offers a comprehensive suite of solutions tailored to APAC advertisers, spanning social, retail media, CTV, gaming and mobile platforms. These solutions enable advertisers to verify media placements everywhere, ensuring consistent measurement standards and transparency across digital investments.

“Our guide serves as a definitive framework to maximize advertising performance in the APAC region,” said Conrad Tallariti, Managing Director and Senior Vice President, APAC, DoubleVerify. “As technology is expanding rapidly, so is the landscape of digital media with opportunities emerging across new social, streaming, gaming, CTV and more, making digital media protection of vital importance.”

To learn more, visit DV’s website and download the guide today.

Read More

Monde Nissin Boosts Digital Success with TikTok Shop

Monde Nissin Boosts Digital Success with TikTok Shop

Thursday, August 22, 2024

Monde Nissin Corporation, a household name in the Philippines for over 40 years, has elevated its iconic food brands to new digital heights by partnering with TikTok Shop. As part of TikTok's roster of Filipino brands, Monde Nissin's impressive growth on the platform underscores the transformative potential of e-commerce and social media in empowering local businesses.

Monde Nissin is celebrating 45 years of bringing good food to tables around the world and is renowned for brands such as Lucky Me!, SkyFlakes, Fita, Nissin Biscuits, Monde, M.Y. San Grahams, and Quorn meat-free products. The company joined TikTok Shop in January 2023, and launched its first livestream event in June 2023. Since then, Monde Nissin has harnessed TikTok Shop's innovative tools and vibrant community to achieve notable results.

"Joining TikTok Shop has been a transformative step for Monde Nissin. It’s not just about expanding our digital footprint, but about engaging with a new generation of consumers in a dynamic, interactive environment. By integrating entertainment and commerce, TikTok Shop has enabled us to drive sales and deepen brand loyalty in ways that traditional platforms could not offer," said Shellane Dy, Activation & Ecomm Head.

Meeting Consumer Demand with Competitive Offers

During TikTok's 7.7 Shopping Sale, Monde Nissin saw double digit growth in Total Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) compared to its previous campaign. This success can be attributed to the brand's strategic use of TikTok Shop's Assortment, Content, and Empowerment (ACE) Indicator System.

In order to meet its diverse consumer needs, Monde Nissin ensured its most popular products were available and competitively priced. In addition, by offering exclusive discounts on popular items, the brand positioned itself as a top choice for value-conscious shoppers.

A key part of this strategy was ensuring high-demand stock-keeping units (SKUs), such as Lucky Me! flavors were well-stocked. This careful inventory management, combined with attractive offers, led to GMV uplift for Lucky Me! during the 7.7 sale, with specific SKUs ranking in the top 40 on the platform.

In addition to Lucky Me!, Monde Nissin also saw substantial growth across other product lines on TikTok Shop. M.Y. San Happy Time Assortment Biscuits achieved an increase in GMV, while the Nissin brand experienced a surge compared to the previous campaign. These results are a testament to the effectiveness of Monde Nissin’s assortment strategy in capturing consumer interest and driving sales across multiple product categories.

Engaging Consumers Through Livestreaming and Influencer Collaborations

In the Content pillar, Monde Nissin's approach was both ambitious and effective. The brand conducted over 24 hours of livestreaming during the 7.7 sale, utilizing multiple TikTok Shop Partners (TSPs) and in-house resources across four accounts. This extensive live presence resulted in a triple digit increase in livestreaming growth compared to the previous campaign. Monde Nissin also leveraged a network of Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) and partnered with mid-tier and large creators, contributing to its total GMV during the event.

"Livestreaming on TikTok Shop has allowed us to connect with our customers in real time, offering them exclusive deals and engaging them directly with our brand story. This platform has redefined how we interact with our audience," said Shellane Dy.

Leveraging Campaigns and Tools for Growth

Monde Nissin also saw significant results by consistently participating in TikTok Shop's campaigns, including the "Buy Local, Shop Local" program of the platform. The brand was nominated and featured as "Brand of the Day," and utilized Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools to attract new customers with targeted vouchers during campaign days. With a strategic focus on limited ad spending, Monde Nissin increased its ads GMV with a Return on Ad Spend (ROAS) of 30.

This success highlights Monde Nissin’s effective use of TikTok Shop’s features and demonstrates how the platform’s combination of social engagement and commerce is influencing the digital marketplace. By facilitating innovative connections between brands and audiences, TikTok Shop provides insights for local businesses adapting to the evolving digital landscape.

"Monde Nissin's impressive performance on our platform highlights the power of TikTok Shop's unique blend of social engagement and e-commerce innovation. Our platform is designed to help brands connect with audiences in meaningful ways, and Monde Nissin's success is a testament to how our tools and features can drive real results. We're excited to continue supporting local brands as they navigate the evolving digital landscape and achieve their growth objectives," said Niks Fojas, Category Lead for FMCG at TikTok Shop.

Read More

Digital Transformation Across Regions: Local Governments Envision Economic Growth with PDSCN Connection

Digital Transformation Across Regions: Local Governments Envision Economic Growth with PDSCN Connection

Monday, August 19, 2024

As the Philippines undergoes digital transformation, it has become critical for local governments to deploy reliable internet connectivity and digitalization. The Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) exemplifies this effort, aiming to enhance the nation's digital infrastructure.

Eastern Communications, the Philippines' pioneering telecommunications company and ICT solutions provider, has forged partnerships with local government units across the country. Through the collaborative PDSCN project, they aim to drive economic growth by elevating the country's digital connectivity and network backbone.

Connecting Regions Through the PDSCN 

The PDSCN is a joint initiative between Eastern Communications, Globe Group, and InfiniVAN Inc. with long-term goals of fostering economic growth and bridging the digital divide. Once completed, it will span over 2,500 kilometers of fiber cables across the Philippines. This robust network is designed to revolutionize internet reliability and resiliency. 

This advanced infrastructure is set to catalyze economic growth and digital transformation in previously underserved and unserved regions. With the PDSCN Express Route now operational, Eastern plans to expand its connectivity network to cater to key business regions such as Iloilo, Davao, Bohol, Boracay, Cagayan de Oro, Bacolod, and Dumaguete. Eastern formally launched and made its services available in Tagbilaran, Bohol through its signature expansion event, Via Eastern, in July 2024.

As local governments harness the potential of reliable internet and embrace digitalization, they are able to deliver improved public services, enhanced communication, and sustainable economic development. The PDSCN is not just about connectivity; it's about empowering communities and driving the Philippines towards a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Fortifying Connectivity in Cebu

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported a 7.3 percent economic growth in Central Visayas for 2023, raising its GDP to P1.381.2 trillion. Metro Cebu is the region's top contributor, and is also a main driver of the Philippines as a frontrunner in the ASEAN region, achieving the highest growth of 5.7% in the first quarter of 2024. This economic surge, fueled by tourism and business programs, increases the demand for better internet connectivity. It also supports Cebu City's goal of becoming a technologically advanced, inclusive, and resilient urban center.

Eastern Communications is empowering the local government of Cebu with its premium Internet Direct Service (IDS), a dedicated high-speed connectivity solution. Eastern’s IDS boasts robust and reliable connectivity revolutionizing communication, data exchange, and collaboration, bolstering Cebu City's economic development and ensuring efficient governance. 

"The recent partnership between Eastern Communications and the Cebu local government offices is a significant step toward enhancing digital infrastructure and connectivity within the city," said Cebu’s Acting City Mayor Atty. Raymond Garcia. "Advocating for better internet connectivity aligns with Cebu City’s vision of a technologically advanced, inclusive, and resilient urban center." 

Cebu local government’s Management Information and Computer Services (MICS) team also noted how improved connectivity aligns with the Cebu government’s goals and initiatives which promotes technological advancement and digitalization:

Enhanced Public Services: Reliable internet connectivity enables citizens to access government services online, pay bills, and apply for permits seamlessly. Digitalization of administrative processes reduces paperwork, enhances transparency, and improves overall efficiency. 

Community Inclusion: Improved internet access bridges gaps between urban and rural areas while providing free or affordable internet in public spaces through Community Wi-Fi promotes social inclusion and connectivity for all. 

Data-Driven Decision-Making: Digitalization generates valuable data on traffic, utilities, and public services, informing policy decisions and urban planning. Sharing data with the public encourages innovation, collaboration, and community engagement.

Beyond connectivity, Eastern’s services streamline the local government’s operations and optimize digital processes. The service helps the Cebu LGU in e-governance, fostering community inclusion, and leveraging data-driven decision-making for smart city solutions. 

Boosting Negros Occidental's Tourism and Emergency Response

Through the PDSCN, Eastern Communications now serves the local government of Negros Occidental in Western Visayas. In 2023, the province recorded a significant tourism revenue of P6 billion, marking a 36% increase in tourist arrivals from the previous year. As the municipality focuses on tourism growth, Eastern is committed to providing robust and reliable internet to support the government’s day-to-day operations and reinforce safety and communications during emergencies and natural disasters.

“We have been using Eastern Communications’ internet services in our office for the past months and have always been satisfied with its speed performance and no disconnection,” said Province of Negros Occidental OIC-ICTD Jose Larry Sañor. “They offer the most competitive rates and after-sales support to our company is great. I’m happy to recommend their services,” he added. 

Connecting the Nation

As the Philippines continues to grow into a more connected and digital-first nation, Eastern Communications plays a crucial role as a reliable ICT solutions partner for local businesses, working in alignment with government initiatives to advance digitalization. The telco’s support was evident during the recent State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., where Eastern served as a key connectivity provider. The telco provided its 10 GBPs Eastern IDS (Internet Direct Service) to the House of Representatives Complex during the SONA 2024. Supporting the connectivity needs during this time helped Eastern connect Filipinos from various corners across the country and ensured the success of the event.

Read More

Alipay+ Expands to Serve 90 Million Global Merchants in 2024 Summer Campaign Following UEFA EURO Craze

Alipay+ Expands to Serve 90 Million Global Merchants in 2024 Summer Campaign Following UEFA EURO Craze

Thursday, August 1, 2024

Alipay+, the cross-border mobile payment and digitalization solutions operated by Ant International, continued its global summer campaign, which was kicked off by UEFA EURO 2024, in preparation for the travel industry's full rebound by the end of 2024.

Alipay+ is the Official Payment Partner of the UEFA EURO 2024™, and connects leading e-wallets and bank apps, including European partners like Bluecode and Tinaba, to 400,000 merchants across Europe. During EURO 2024 from 14 June to 14 July:

• Alipay+ merchants in Europe saw a year-on-year increase of 27% in terms of transactions made from its partner e-wallets, many of which are mobile payment leaders in Asia. The number of tourists who paid with their preferred home payment app via Alipay+ rose by over 30% during the championship period.
• Mobile-savvy travelers from the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong SAR, Europe, Malaysia and South Korea lead the European travel craze in terms of the number of transactions and total spending.
• While retail remains the most popular activity, travelers also pay with their home payment apps via Alipay+ at pharmacies and attractions, as Alipay+ increases its coverage in essential travel scenarios.
• Cross-border consumption rose with varied user and merchant campaigns across UEFA EURO host cities like Berlin and Munich. In Germany, Alipay+ transactions increased by more than 73%, with a 40% increase in the number of merchants accepting an Alipay+ transaction, compared to the year before.

"The surge in Alipay+ transactions during UEFA EURO 2024 shows the power of sports and major events to unite people and drive cross-border tourism,” said Douglas Feagin, President of Ant International. “European merchants and partners embraced new digital payment trends with remarkable openness and agility. At Ant International, we will continue to expand merchant coverage for consumers and bring more international businesses to the doors of global SMEs.”

Alipay+ turns the heat up with global summer campaign

This summer, tourists will be able to pay with their preferred payment apps via Alipay+ at more than 90 million global merchants in 66 markets as Alipay+ merchant coverage continues to grow, connecting them to users of more than 30 payment partners.

With Europe expected to be one of the top destinations during summer, Alipay+ will continue its momentum from its UEFA EURO 2024 drive, with more joint campaigns with partners to promote usage of their home payment apps in Europe, and offering exclusive promotions at leading merchants, particularly in key destinations like the UK, France, Italy, Spain and Germany.

Besides retailers, Alipay+ is also working with local partners to ensure more local businesses can benefit. For example, tourists can enjoy special deals at many small shops in Chinatown in Milan, with more small businesses across Europe to be progressively onboarded. Alipay+ is also adding more digital conveniences for tourists through its recent integration with the taxi app FREENOW, available in 7 European countries, and partnerships for digital tax refunds. The latter allows Chinese tourists to receive instant tax refunds on their Alipay app in-store.

In Japan, where more than 2 million merchants accept Alipay+, tourists from the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong SAR, the Philippines, South Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand can enjoy special discounts at 300,000 merchants across the country, including airport shops, department stores, premium shopping malls, convenience store chains, electronics and appliances retailers, and health and beauty shops.

In South Korea, Alipay+ is rolling out summer promotions with leading retailers, theme parks, traditional market and transportation providers, including duty-free stores and department stores operated by Hyundai, Shilla, Shinsegae, Lotte World, ZeroPay Jeju market and Olive Young, for users of AlipayHK, GCash, Touch 'n Go eWallet and TrueMoney.

Alipay+ expanded its acceptance for transportation in South Korea, making it easier for tourists to travel around. In Jeju, users of Alipay+ partners, including Alipay, AlipayHK, GCash, Touch ’n Go eWallet and TrueMoney, can simply use their own payment apps to pay for bus rides. The convenience extends beyond local transportation. Chinese tourists can book train tickets to travel across the country through a dedicated mini-program operated by Korail within the Alipay app.

Through its collaboration with ZeroPay, South Korea’s national QR standard, Alipay+ is accepted by more than 1.9 million merchants.

Alipay+ and its partners continue to make travel more seamless in the Chinese mainland, including the recent expansion of the International Consumer-Friendly Zone Program to Chengdu and Chongqing, as well as Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shanghai. Tourists visiting the Chinese mainland can pay across more than 80 million merchants by linking their international credit cards to the Alipay app or via 12 other Alipay+ partner payment methods.

In Southeast Asia (SEA), where Alipay+ is widely accepted, users of AlipayHK, Touch ’n Go eWallet, GCash and TrueMoney can purchase discounted travel packs for use at all Alipay+ merchants in the region. Through its partnership with national QRs in Singapore and Malaysia, Alipay+ merchants in the region include many micro and small merchants like hawker stalls in Singapore, that will allow tourists to truly ‘travel like a local’.

With SEA being a popular destination for Chinese tourists, Alipay+ is introducing more innovation and campaigns via Alipay, one of its payment partners, including exclusive campaigns with more than 30 of the most popular retailers – including Central Retail, The Mall Group and King Power in Thailand, Pavilion and Sunway Velocity in Malaysia, and Jewel, Resorts Word Sentosa and Mandai in Singapore.

Additionally, in Thailand, the top SEA destination for Chinese tourists, Alipay+ is enhancing its Alipay+ D-hub and Amazing Thailand e-card – a joint digital travel innovation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand – within the Alipay app, to promote more cities, more merchants and offer more discounts.

Read More

Appdome Tackles Geo-Fraud with More Defenses for Mobile Apps

Appdome Tackles Geo-Fraud with More Defenses for Mobile Apps

Wednesday, July 31, 2024

Mobile Brands and Enterprises Can Now Add Geo-Location Fencing and Geo DeSync Detection to Android & iOS Apps with No Code, No SDK and No Server Needed

Appdome, the mobile app economy’s one-stop shop for mobile defense, today announced it has enhanced its award-winning Geo-Fraud Detection service to include two new defenses: Geo-Location Fencing and Geo DeSync Attack Detection. Combined with other Geo-Compliance features available on the Appdome platform, mobile app developers and enterprises can eliminate location-based fraud, ensure geo-compliance and deliver location relevant user experiences in mobile apps free from location spoofing, fake location, VPNs, Fake GPS Apps and other threats.

Geo-fencing is essential in finance apps and other regulated industries that need to meet Know Your Customer (KYC) and other compliance mandates, such as the US Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC), EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) requirements. Geo-fencing enables mobile app developers to restrict or limit app access on a country or regional level, ensuring that operations are compliant with local laws and regulations.

A Geo Desync Attack is a cyber-attack that intentionally creates mismatches in location data on a mobile device. By manipulating GPS coordinates, altering the time zone settings, and falsifying accelerometer readings, attackers can deceive location-based services and security systems. This type of attack can lead to inaccurate tracking, unauthorized access, and potential breaches of security protocols, undermining the integrity of location-dependent applications and services.

“Detecting geo related fraud is a top priority in today's mobile app economy. Attackers are increasingly using location spoofing to avoid compliance, for example,” said Eric Newcomer, CTO and Principal Analyst at Intellyx. “Mobile apps rely on accurate location for their services and are increasingly required to confirm device location to maintain trust. Appdome’s mobile Geo Compliance service reduces developer complexity for implementing advanced geo-compliance security features.”

Unlike legacy geo compliance offerings that rely on proprietary, costly, and vendor-built geo service networks, the Appdome Geo Compliance solution zeros in on protecting the mobile device’s built-in location services and ensures these services have not been abused or tampered with. Appdome’s approach eliminates the need for third-party networks, SDKs, complex server-based implementations and does not require third-party monthly usage fees, allowing the enforcement to work even if the device is not network-connected.

“Offering a broad range of mobile Geo Compliance features under a single pane of glass with other security and anti-fraud defenses is a game changer,” said Tom Tovar, co-creator and CEO of Appdome. “These added Geo-Fraud defenses showcase how the Appdome platform is uniquely extensible, and allows brands, developers and enterprises alike to solve multiple mobile app defense objectives simultaneously in the same automated workflow.”

The full Appdome Mobile Geo-Compliance solution puts an end to geo-fraud by detecting fake location, fake GPS apps, fraudulent location, detect VPN, no SIM (fake device), teleportation, Geo DeSync and other attacks. Customers simply select the Geo-Compliance features needed in any Android & iOS apps and initiate the build command from CI/CD or using the Appdome Platform’s “Build My App” button. Appdome’s patented technology uses machine learning to code the defenses into each application, so mobile developers don’t have to.

“Compliance was the early driver for our geo-fraud solution, but now there’s so much more customers are getting out of it,” said Chris Roeckl, Chief Product Officer of Appdome. “Stopping location-fraud and ensuring valid, real location in mobile applications is universal across every Android & iOS app, whether it’s a streaming, dating, restaurant, retail, gig economy or other app. True location is what we deliver in these mobile apps.”

The Appdome Geo-Compliance solution is available in multiple enforcement modes including advanced telemetry and customized responses or workflows when geo compliance threats are detected, and monitoring geo-fraud attacks via the Appdome ThreatScope™ Mobile XDR, either before or after the deployment of geo-location defenses via the Appdome platform.

See the full Appdome Mobile Geo-Compliance solution live at Black Hat USA August 3-8, 2024 in booth #1350.

For more information on Appdome Geo-Compliance capabilities and to book a personalized demo, visit https://www.appdome.com/mobile-fraud-detection/geo-compliance/.

Read More