TP Philippines Highlights AI-Driven, Future-Ready Workforce Strategies at the 2025 GWFM APAC Summit

TP Philippines Highlights AI-Driven, Future-Ready Workforce Strategies at the 2025 GWFM APAC Summit

Monday, December 8, 2025

Teleperformance Philippines reinforces its human-centric approach to AI and workforce innovation before industry leaders across Asia-Pacific.

TP (formerly Teleperformance) in the Philippines, a global leader in digital business services, continues to champion a future-ready workforce as it participated in the 5th APAC Workforce Management Summit 2025 hosted by Global Workforce Management. The event brought together more than 200 workforce leaders and practitioners from across the Asia-Pacific region, all focused on shaping resilient, AI-empowered organizations.

With this year’s summit theme, “Redefining Workforce Intelligence & Agentic AI: Enabling Resilient, Future-Ready Organizations,” experts explored new ways to blend technology, automation, and human insight to strengthen workplaces.

TP Shares Human-Centric AI Strategy on Panel Discussion

Representing TP Philippines, Senior Vice President for Workforce Management Jim Mathew Joseph joined a panel that explored how companies can effectively harness AI to improve both business resilience and employee empowerment.

Joseph emphasized that technology should elevate people — not replace them. As he explained:

“In a future-ready organization, technology and AI are meant to amplify, not replace our people. At TP, we fulfill this through a human-in-the-loop approach to our AI adoption strategy. We ensure that our integration of AI and human insight continues to drive empathy and excellence, to create workplaces that are both high-performing and deeply human.”

A Regional Exchange of Best Practices

Throughout the summit, over 20 industry experts presented case studies and shared strategies on:

• Building adaptable and resilient workforces
• Embracing AI-driven insights for scalability and competitiveness
• Strengthening customer experience through smarter workforce automation
• Navigating economic and technological disruptions

Leaders across sectors also emphasized the importance of maintaining a flexible, data-informed approach to workforce management in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

A People-First Employer With a Strong Record of Excellence

As one of the largest private employers in the Philippines, TP continues to uphold its commitment to employee well-being, ethical operations, and business resilience. The company’s 60,000 employees across 27 sites reflect a robust people-first culture.

TP Philippines has also been Great Place to Work®-certified for eight consecutive years, consistently earning high marks from employees for workplace safety, inclusivity, and sustainability efforts.

TP’s presence at the GWFM APAC Summit further solidifies its position as a leader in building a tech-enabled yet deeply human workplace. By championing responsible AI adoption and future-ready workforce models, the company continues to shape how organizations can thrive in an increasingly digital world.

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EastWest Bank Launches Google Pay in the Philippines: Faster, Safer, and Smarter Payments for Filipinos

EastWest Bank Launches Google Pay in the Philippines: Faster, Safer, and Smarter Payments for Filipinos

Monday, December 1, 2025

 

Filipinos are embracing digital payments more than ever, especially with today’s fast-paced lifestyle. Whether you're buying coffee, booking a ride, or shopping online, tap-to-pay convenience has become the new norm. Now, EastWest is making cashless living even easier. The bank is officially one of the first in the Philippines to bring Google Pay™ to its cardholders, giving Android users a faster, safer, and smarter way to complete everyday transactions.

EastWest Joins Google Pay: A Big Win for Mobile Wallet Users

In a major push toward digital innovation, EastWest is rolling out Google Pay™ for its Visa and Mastercard Credit cards. With this new feature, customers can simply add their cards to Google Wallet™ on their Android devices, then enjoy secure tap-to-pay transactions at contactless terminals or seamless online checkouts without having to type card details.

It’s a convenient upgrade for Filipinos who want to ditch physical cards and pay with just their phone or smartwatch.

Advanced Security Through Tokenization

For many, online and mobile payments come with one big question: Is it safe?

EastWest ensures that every Google Pay transaction is protected through tokenization, a security feature that replaces real card numbers with encrypted digital codes. This means merchants never see your actual card information — minimizing risks and giving users peace of mind every time they tap or check out online.

EastWest CEO Jerry G. Ngo emphasized that their goal has always been to simplify life through technology. He shared that with Google Pay, the bank is empowering cardholders to make secure transactions anytime and anywhere, calling it “the easier way to pay.”

Strengthening EastWest’s Lead in Digital Payments

The bank has already made waves with its own EWPay contactless platform, and now it further solidifies its role as a frontrunner in the digital payments space by going live on Google Pay ahead of several major industry players.

Google Philippines Country Manager Prep Palacios applauded the move, highlighting that Google’s partnership with EastWest supports the nation’s digital transformation and financial inclusion goals.

How to Use Google Pay with Your EastWest Card

Getting started is simple:

1. Open Google Wallet™ on any compatible Android device
2. Add your EastWest Visa or Mastercard Credit card
3. Start shopping using tap-to-pay or online checkout

EastWest also confirmed that support for Visa Debit cards is coming soon.

What This Means for Filipino Consumers

More than just convenience, Google Pay signifies a shift toward smarter, more secure digital banking. It makes everyday transactions easier, reduces reliance on physical cards, and supports the Philippines’ growing cashless culture. For Filipinos who want speed, safety, and modern payment options, this is a welcome upgrade.

If you're an EastWest cardholder, now’s the perfect time to try Google Pay and experience the ease of tap-to-pay shopping. With more digital innovations on the way, EastWest is shaping up to be one of the most forward-thinking banks in the country.

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PLDT Enterprise and Nabstract Launch SilentAccess

PLDT Enterprise and Nabstract Launch SilentAccess

In a digital world where scams evolve faster than our passwords, Filipinos are constantly seeking safer ways to transact online. This is why PLDT Enterprise is stepping up its cybersecurity game. The corporate arm of PLDT has partnered with global tech innovator Nabstract to introduce SmartSafe SilentAccess—a new solution designed to authenticate users without relying on one-time passwords. For Filipinos tired of worrying about phishing scams, this could be a game-changer.

A New Era of Secure, OTP-Free Authentication

As digital transactions continue to rise, so do incidents of cyber fraud. Traditional OTPs sent via SMS have become common targets for phishing, SIM swaps, and social engineering scams. To address this, PLDT Enterprise is rolling out SilentAccess, the flagship solution of the soon-to-launch SmartSafe fraud management API suite.

SilentAccess allows real-time, direct user verification through the Smart network. Instead of waiting for a text message, users are authenticated seamlessly in the background—making login and checkout experiences faster and much more secure.

During the launch, PLDT Enterprise executives shared that this new tool is designed to benefit industries like banking, fintech, e-commerce, and even SMEs that want to safeguard customer transactions. As Nico Alcoseba, First Vice President and Head of Product Management at PLDT Enterprise, emphasized, the partnership is part of their mission to innovate responsibly and build digital trust. He explained that with their GSMA Open Gateway API Certification, PLDT Enterprise is taking bold steps in protecting businesses with seamless and fraud-resistant technology.

How the Partnership with Nabstract Strengthens Security

Nabstract, known for its expertise in secure network exposure, plays a major role in enabling SilentAccess. Through Smart’s Service Exposure Platform (SEP), enterprises can tap directly into advanced network intelligence for:

• Real-time fraud detection
• Authentication without OTP friction
• Stronger security for online transactions
• Smoother user experiences across platforms

This means banks can block unauthorized access instantly, e-commerce platforms can reduce abandoned carts, and SMEs can offer secure logins without complicating user journeys.

According to Nabstract Founder and Director Vaibhav Mehta, the company trusts PLDT Enterprise to deliver secure and scalable digital solutions to the Philippine market. Their shared goal: empower organizations to thrive safely in an increasingly digital economy.

Building a Safer Digital Future for Filipino Businesses

The collaboration also aligns with PLDT Enterprise’s support for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to innovation, industry, and digital inclusion. By enabling secure online services, the initiative helps boost trust and confidence in the country’s digital ecosystem.

With cybersecurity threats evolving every day, SilentAccess is a timely tool for businesses that want to protect users while providing fast, frictionless digital experiences.

Learn more about SmartSafe SilentAccess here:

https://pldtenterprise.com/enterprise/products/mobility/mobile-solutions/smartsafe/number-verification

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RCBC and Taptap Send Partner to Simplify Global Remittances

RCBC and Taptap Send Partner to Simplify Global Remittances

Sunday, November 23, 2025

Sending money back home just got easier for overseas Filipinos. RCBC has teamed up with digital money transfer service Taptap Send to expand global remittance options across the USA, Canada, Europe, UK, UAE, and Australia. This partnership brings faster, more secure, and convenient ways for Filipinos abroad to support their families in the Philippines.

Expanding Digital Remittances Worldwide

With 75% of remittances now sent through digital platforms, the Philippines received a record $38.34 billion in inflows last year. RCBC Transaction Banking Group Head Martin Tirol highlighted that this partnership strengthens the bank’s mission to provide accessible financial services to overseas Filipinos and their families.

Through this collaboration, RCBC can now reach new sending corridors while integrating approximately 500,000 new clients into its remittance system. By joining forces with Taptap Send, a mobile-first money transfer platform operating in major sending regions, RCBC further enhances its global digital remittance infrastructure.

“Overseas Filipinos deserve swift, secure, and convenient options for sending money home,” Tirol said. He emphasized that this partnership equips kababayans with innovative financial tools, helping them achieve long-term financial goals and plan for the future.

For recipients in the Philippines, this translates to faster transfers, reliable service, and access to RCBC’s advanced digital banking solutions, making remittances simpler and more seamless than ever.

RCBC: A Trusted Partner in Financial Connectivity

Currently the 5th largest privately-owned universal bank in the Philippines, RCBC has been recognized for Best Bank for Customer Service. With its robust remittance network and advanced digital capabilities, the bank continues to redefine how Filipinos move money across borders. Through online banking and customer-centric solutions, RCBC ensures that global remittances are not only efficient but also secure and reliable.

For more information on RCBC’s remittance services, visit RCBC Remit.

For overseas Filipinos, sending support to loved ones is more than a transaction—it’s a lifeline. With RCBC and Taptap Send, families can count on timely, reliable, and convenient money transfers, empowering them to plan, save, and thrive no matter where they are in the world.

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Couchbase Mobile Brings Major Advancements for AI-Powered Applications at the Edge

Couchbase Mobile Brings Major Advancements for AI-Powered Applications at the Edge

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

New JavaScript Support, Enhanced Peer-to-Peer Sync, and Multi-Region Resilience Reduce Integration Complexity and Downtime Risk for Mobile AI Apps in Disconnected Environments

Couchbase, Inc., the developer data platform powering mission-critical applications in the AI era, today announced major updates to its Couchbase Mobile platform, enabling AI-powered applications to run seamlessly on devices at the disconnected edge.

The platform’s new JavaScript support for Couchbase Lite allows the embedded database to operate in any web browser, delivering a universal client capable of running offline-first web applications and synchronizing data across web, mobile, desktop, and custom hardware environments. Enhancements to peer-to-peer (P2P) synchronization include device auto-discovery, mesh support that adapts as users join or leave networks, and network auto-switching capabilities, ensuring uninterrupted collaboration even in offline or dynamic network conditions. Additionally, improvements to deployment resilience and failover mechanisms help ensure applications remain fast, available, and reliable regardless of internet connectivity.

“Building AI-powered applications at the edge requires delivering fast, personalized, and always-on experiences even in completely disconnected environments,” said Matt McDonough, SVP of Product at Couchbase. “These updates to Couchbase Mobile empower developers to build and ship applications faster while ensuring uninterrupted uptime. While other vendors are scaling back mobile support due to complexity, Couchbase is expanding mobile and edge capabilities, now including browser-based JavaScript apps.”

Always-On Applications Enable Business Continuity

As AI applications increasingly run on edge devices with intermittent connectivity, cloud-only solutions often fall short. Forrester reports that nearly half of enterprise IT professionals view edge technology adoption as a top priority, underscoring the need for reliable mobile experiences in disconnected environments. Couchbase Mobile addresses this by enabling AI applications to synchronize data between edge devices even in internet dead zones while automatically adapting to changing network conditions.

Global retailer Aptos relies on Couchbase to power its cloud-native point-of-sale (POS) system. Using Couchbase Capella™, Aptos ONE delivers seamless transactions beyond traditional checkout counters. “Reliable synchronization from cloud to retail devices is critical for our customers,” said John Carney, VP and Head of Architecture at Aptos. “Couchbase Mobile’s P2P replication allows us to deliver always-on experiences with lower total cost of ownership. Capella alone reduced our infrastructure footprint from 12 deployments with over 100 nodes to a single deployment with 31 nodes, saving over $1 million annually.”

Unified Platform Reduces Complexity and Risk

Organizations building AI applications face trade-offs: cloud-only databases require constant internet access, while mobile-only embedded databases demand costly custom integrations. Couchbase Mobile eliminates these challenges with a unified solution that seamlessly syncs data from cloud to edge to device to web. 

Key features include:

Couchbase Lite for JavaScript – Embed Couchbase Lite in browser-based web apps for offline-first experiences. Local data processing ensures faster, more secure, and always-available applications that synchronize seamlessly with Capella App Services and Sync Gateway.

Enhanced Peer-to-Peer Sync – Automatic device discovery, adaptive mesh networking, and upcoming network auto-switching simplify P2P integration for iOS and Android, reducing implementation code from dozens of lines to around five.

XDCR and Multi-Cluster Resilience – Cross-data center replication in Capella App Services and Sync Gateway 4.0 provides zero-downtime disaster recovery, seamless failover, and mobile user migration across clusters for maximum uptime.

Couchbase Edge Server – A lightweight database server for resource-constrained environments, designed to power applications in isolated locations like airplanes, warehouses, retail stores, and restaurants.

Couchbase Mobile is available now. Learn more about delivering offline-first AI applications at www.couchbase.com.

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Why Southeast Asia CIOs Are Turning to Low-Code and AI for Faster Digital Growth

Why Southeast Asia CIOs Are Turning to Low-Code and AI for Faster Digital Growth

Monday, November 17, 2025

 

Southeast Asia is moving at lightning speed when it comes to digital transformation, and a new report from Kissflow reveals exactly how CIOs are making it happen. With businesses racing to modernize, governments pushing digital-first initiatives, and consumers expecting smoother online experiences, the region is now leaning heavily on AI-powered low-code platforms to get things done faster.

For Filipino companies especially those balancing limited tech talent with rising digital demands this shift offers a massive opportunity.

A Digital Economy Growing Toward US$1 Trillion

According to Kissflow’s CIO Low-Code Strategy Pulse Report 2025, ASEAN’s digital economy is projected to skyrocket from US$300 billion to as much as US$1 trillion by 2030. A big driver of that growth is AI, which is expected to contribute 13%–18% to the region’s GDP by the end of the decade.

But there’s a challenge: ICT talent across Southeast Asia can’t keep up with the pace of transformation.

The report shows:

• 86% of CIOs worldwide now rely on low-code tools to build and deliver applications faster
• Many organizations are struggling with growing IT backlogs
• Over 55% of CIOs believe AI will dramatically increase the number of apps created

This paints a clear picture: while digital ambitions are rising, the region needs more efficient, scalable ways to build technology.

Low-Code + AI: The New Formula for Faster Innovation

Kissflow notes a major shift taking place not just in tech departments but across entire organizations.

A Tool for Solving Talent Shortages

Low-code platforms allow teams to build applications without deep programming skills. When combined with AI, development becomes even faster and smarter.

Kissflow’s APAC AVP, Rakesh Nandakumar, put it simply:

Southeast Asia is at the digital frontier, and low-code + AI gives CIOs the boost they need to innovate quickly without waiting for a larger tech workforce.

Key Highlights for Southeast Asia

1. Strong Adoption in Banking, Government, and Logistics

Industries with multi-branch operations, strict compliance requirements, and high customer demand are moving away from traditional development. Low-code tools help them respond faster and modernize more efficiently.

2. Business Teams Are Now Building Apps Too

Kissflow’s data shows that operations (33%), finance (25%), and HR (23%) departments are already creating applications using no-code tools with minimal IT help.

This rise of citizen developers signals a shift toward business-led innovation where teams closest to the work can quickly build what they need.

3. AI as a Key Factor in Buying Decisions

Today, 34% of CIOs consider AI capabilities essential when choosing a low-code platform. AI is no longer just a nice-to-have it’s becoming a major competitive advantage, especially for organizations operating in multiple countries with localized compliance needs.

4. A Strategic Solution for Regional Growth

Southeast Asian businesses now view low-code as a core strategy. It enables them to launch new services faster and empower their workforce to keep up as the region’s digital transformation accelerates.

Kissflow’s Influence in APAC and the Philippines

Kissflow stands out as a unified platform offering both no-code and low-code capabilities:

• No-code for business teams to automate processes
• Low-code for IT teams to build full business applications
• Built-in integration, reporting, and lightweight BI modules

Some major APAC organizations relying on Kissflow include True Corporation, Bank of the Philippines, and SCG International.

A notable Philippine success story is SN Aboitiz Power Group (SNAP), which saw a 451% ROI after deploying Kissflow’s low-code platform to streamline workflows and develop over 100 applications. The achievement earned them the ROI Award 2025 from Nucleus Research.

Recognized by Gartner, Forrester, and G2, Kissflow remains a leader in low-code and no-code solutions globally.

As Southeast Asia races toward a trillion-dollar digital economy, low-code and AI are becoming essential tools not just for tech giants, but for any organization that wants to stay competitive. For Filipino businesses navigating tech talent gaps and growing digital expectations, platforms like Kissflow offer a powerful way to innovate quickly and efficiently.

Whether you’re in banking, logistics, government, or even SMEs, embracing low-code may be your next big leap into the future.

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DBS and Ant International Boost Cross-Border Payments and Fintech Innovation

DBS and Ant International Boost Cross-Border Payments and Fintech Innovation

In an era where digital payments are transforming how we shop, send money, and do business, regional banks and fintech leaders are taking collaboration to the next level. DBS and Ant International have strengthened their strategic partnership, promising more seamless cross-border payments and innovative fintech solutions designed to empower businesses and consumers across Asia and beyond.

Expanding Digital Payments Across Borders

The renewed partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Singapore Fintech Festival 2025, brings DBS PayLah! users into the Alipay+ ecosystem. This means over three million DBS PayLah! users can now scan Alipay+ QR codes to pay at more than 150 million merchants in over 100 markets, bridging local convenience with global connectivity.

Real-Time Remittances for Greater Financial Inclusion

Beyond payments, DBS and Ant International are exploring near-instant remittance solutions. The bank-to-wallet initiative aims to enable real-time transfers between DBS customers and 1.8 billion Alipay+ users worldwide, using ISO 20022 messaging standards and the SWIFT network. These innovations simplify cross-border transfers for both individuals and businesses, making financial services more accessible than ever.

Supporting SMEs on Their Digital Journey

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) stand to gain significantly from this partnership. DBS is teaming up with Antom, Ant International’s merchant payment and digitisation platform, to explore innovative solutions such as the Model Context Protocol (MCP)-based Antom Agentic Payment system. This platform combines alternative payment methods, AI-driven insights, and efficient payment mandates to support SMEs in digitizing operations.

Additionally, DBS is working with WorldFirst to scale up same-day and near-instant cross-border payments, giving SMEs faster access to their funds and helping them thrive in an increasingly digital economy.

Driving Regional Fintech Innovation

Both DBS and Ant International are committed to fostering innovation in the regional fintech ecosystem. Their collaboration includes exploring tokenised deposits and other cutting-edge financial solutions, aiming to create more efficient, inclusive, and future-ready financial services.

Peng Yang, CEO of Ant International, shared that the strengthened partnership builds on a decade-long collaboration, highlighting the potential to boost digital economies and inclusive growth across the region.

Tan Su Shan, CEO of DBS, emphasized that combining their expertise allows both organizations to unlock new growth opportunities, accelerate innovations like tokenised deposits and agentic payments, and reimagine the future of finance for clients and consumers alike.

For Filipino businesses and consumers eyeing cross-border opportunities, the DBS–Ant International partnership signals a more connected and innovative financial landscape. With faster payments, smarter fintech solutions, and greater support for SMEs, the future of finance in Asia is not just digital—it’s inclusive, empowering, and accessible.

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GoTyme Bank Partners with Wise Platform to Revolutionize International Remittances for Filipinos

GoTyme Bank Partners with Wise Platform to Revolutionize International Remittances for Filipinos

Monday, November 10, 2025

Faster, cheaper, and more transparent cross-border transfers now possible through GoTyme Bank app

Sending money home just got easier, faster, and smarter for millions of Filipino families. GoTyme Bank, one of the Philippines’ fastest-growing digital banks, has officially partnered with Wise Platform, the global leader in payment infrastructure.

This landmark collaboration makes GoTyme Bank the first Wise Platform partner in the Philippines and Wise’s first International Receive partner in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. Together, they’re empowering over 7.8 million Filipinos with seamless, low-cost, and transparent international remittances through the GoTyme Bank app.

Redefining How Filipinos Receive Money from Abroad

For decades, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families have faced steep remittance fees, hidden charges, and long processing times. The GoTyme–Wise partnership tackles these long-standing challenges head-on by integrating Wise’s trusted global infrastructure directly into the GoTyme Bank app.

Customers can now receive money from over 11,000 banks worldwide via SWIFT, covering 23 major currencies such as USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, and SGD  all with transparent pricing and faster settlement.

With just a few taps, users can view and share their GoTyme account details, making it easier for senders abroad to transfer funds directly to the Philippines. Once received, customers can withdraw their remittances for free at over 1,400 Robinsons Retail partner stores nationwide, ensuring accessibility even without traditional bank branches.

Empowering Families and Building a More Inclusive Financial Future

Remittances are a lifeline for millions of Filipino households. In 2024 alone, OFWs sent home over US$38 billion, contributing significantly to the nation’s economy. However, Wise research shows that Filipinos lost around USD 170 million (₱9.74 billion) that same year due to hidden fees and poor exchange rates.

This new integration changes that. By making remittances faster, fairer, and more transparent, GoTyme Bank and Wise Platform are helping families get the full value of every peso sent  turning overseas earnings into opportunities for education, livelihood, and growth.

“Our collaboration with Wise is about creating a trusted remittance experience that feels effortless,” said Nate Clarke, President and CEO of GoTyme Bank. “By pairing Wise’s world-class technology and global network with GoTyme Bank’s simple, beautiful banking, we’re redefining how Filipinos support their families, grow their ambitions, and stay connected to what matters most.”

“This partnership exemplifies Wise’s mission to build the infrastructure for the world’s money,” added Samarth Bansal, APAC General Manager of Wise Platform. “GoTyme Bank is the first in the Philippines to break away from hidden charges and slow speeds on SWIFT payments. For 14 years, Wise has been building better cross-border systems  and now, Filipinos can benefit from this innovation through GoTyme.”

A New Era for Cross-Border Banking

As Filipinos increasingly expect global payments to be as seamless as local transfers, this partnership sets a new benchmark for digital banking in the Philippines. Combining GoTyme’s customer-first approach with Wise’s trusted global network, the two companies are bringing world-class financial access to millions of Filipinos  both at home and abroad.

This collaboration isn’t just about faster transactions, it’s about empowering real connections between families and communities, wherever they are in the world.

To experience smarter, faster remittances, download the GoTyme Bank app and start receiving money from abroad with no hidden fees, just real value.

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Couchbase 8.0 Launches Unified AI Data Platform

Couchbase 8.0 Launches Unified AI Data Platform

Tuesday, November 4, 2025

A unified, high-speed data platform designed for AI innovation and scalability

Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform the way we work, create, and connect—and now, Couchbase 8.0 is helping developers take those innovations even further. The latest version of the developer data platform officially brings end-to-end AI lifecycle support to enterprises, empowering them to build fast, reliable, and scalable AI-driven applications at a lower cost.

Whether for startups exploring AI chatbots or enterprises deploying agentic systems, Couchbase 8.0 delivers what today’s developers need most: speed, precision, and flexibility.

Why Couchbase 8.0 Matters for AI Development

According to Couchbase, the new release introduces three powerful vector indexing and retrieval technologies that make it easier for developers to manage massive AI data workloads in real time. These include:

Hyperscale Vector Index (HVI): Built for billion-scale datasets, this index delivers lightning-fast vector searches with millisecond latency.

Composite Vector Index: Allows pre-filtered queries to refine vector searches for more targeted, contextual results.

Search Vector Index: Supports hybrid searches combining vector, text, and structured data in a single query.

These features make Couchbase a unified data platform capable of managing structured and unstructured information—a crucial advantage for real-time, context-aware AI applications.

Proven Billion-Scale Performance

Independent benchmark tests revealed that Couchbase’s Hyperscale Vector Index can handle massive datasets without sacrificing accuracy or speed.

Performance test: Up to 19,057 queries per second (QPS) with 28ms latency and 66% recall accuracy

Accuracy test: Over 700 QPS at 93% recall accuracy with sub-second response times

Compared to a leading cloud database competitor, Couchbase performed 3,100x faster in speed tests and 350x more efficient in accuracy tests, showcasing its unparalleled scalability for large-scale AI workloads.

“Scaling AI requires a developer platform built for speed and reliability,” said Matt McDonough, SVP of Product at Couchbase. “With end-to-end RAG workflows and our Hyperscale Vector Indexing, Couchbase helps organizations create trustworthy, high-performance AI systems while keeping costs low.”

Enhanced Security for Enterprise-Grade AI

Security remains a top concern for enterprises embracing AI. Couchbase 8.0 directly addresses this by introducing native data-at-rest encryption (DARE) and Key Management Interoperability Protocol (KMIP) support  ensuring that sensitive data remains safe, encrypted, and compliant across environments.

It also strengthens cross data center replication (XDCR) for improved reliability and disaster recovery, ensuring that even globally distributed businesses can meet data residency requirements while maintaining performance and uptime.

Simplifying AI Development for All Skill Levels

Couchbase 8.0 isn’t just for seasoned developers, it’s built to help teams of all skill levels create AI applications efficiently.

Developers can now use natural language queries (instead of complex SQL++ code) to interact with data, making the platform more accessible. Additional tools such as query workload repositories and user-defined search synonyms further enhance productivity and troubleshooting.

“By simplifying complex data architectures and integrating vector capabilities, Couchbase makes AI development faster and more accessible,” said Kate Holterhoff, Senior Analyst at RedMonk.

AI Development, Reimagined

As the Philippines continues to grow its digital economy, Couchbase 8.0 arrives at the perfect time. From AI-driven customer service to predictive analytics and creative automation, this unified data platform gives Filipino developers and enterprises the tools to scale innovation confidently.

If you’re building the next big AI solution or want to streamline your data infrastructure, Couchbase 8.0 might just be the secret weapon your development team has been waiting for.

Try it today at www.couchbase.com.

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CIBI Expands Credit Visibility for Filipinos

CIBI Expands Credit Visibility for Filipinos

Sunday, October 26, 2025

In a country where access to credit can open doors to better opportunities, CIBI Information Inc. is taking a major step toward making financial inclusion a reality for more Filipinos. The pioneering credit reporting agency has gained Advanced Tier access from the Credit Information Corporation (CIC) giving it visibility across 68.4 million individuals and 468.3 million accounts.

This milestone allows CIBI to provide a clearer and more comprehensive picture of Filipinos’ credit behavior, empowering both lenders and borrowers to make smarter, fairer financial decisions.

According to Pia Arellano, CIBI President and CEO, this development is about connecting more people to the country’s formal financial ecosystem.

“It’s really about data and having a more complete picture for every Filipino,” shared Arellano. “With Advanced Tier access, we can put together the missing pieces to help every consumer build a stronger financial identity.”

Turning Credit Data Into Financial Opportunities

Under the Credit Information System Act (CISA) of 2012, financial institutions must submit their clients’ credit data to the CIC. CIBI’s subsidiary, Credit Transaction and Verification Inc. (CTVI), processes these massive datasets into actionable insights from credit reports to credit scores that financial institutions use for responsible lending.

“Through Advanced Tier access, we process millions of data points from banks, cooperatives, and fintechs into insights that help institutions understand their customers better,” explained Jasmine Alansalon-Gonzales, CIBI’s Chief Product, Partnership, and Innovation Officer. “This allows lenders to balance growth with responsible risk management.”

CIBI’s enhanced visibility doesn’t just benefit big banks, it also empowers small lenders and digital platforms to reach first-time borrowers who were previously “credit invisible.”

Tracking the New Face of Borrowing in the Digital Era

The digital shift in financial behavior has revealed new patterns among Filipino borrowers. According to CIBI’s analytics team, small, short-term loans such as personal loans or buy-now, pay-later (BNPL) schemes are becoming more common.

“More Filipinos are borrowing in smaller amounts, typically between ₱5,000 and ₱10,000,” said Harley Chan, CIBI’s Chief Analytics Officer. “These patterns give us deeper insight into how people borrow and repay, helping lenders see potential beyond traditional credit profiles.”

These recurring microtransactions, when captured through CIBI’s Advanced Tier access, contribute to a borrower’s financial footprint. Over time, these small but consistent data points help consumers build credit histories, a stepping stone toward larger financial products like car loans, credit cards, or mortgages.

Data-Driven Solutions That Empower Lenders and Borrowers

With access to the CIC’s Advanced Tier, CIBI now enables banks, cooperatives, and fintechs to make data-backed lending decisions while minimizing risk. Its no-hit, no-pay policy reduces acquisition costs, encouraging institutions to serve more consumers even those new to credit.

By transforming raw data into reliable credit information, CIBI fosters trust between lenders and borrowers and strengthens the country’s financial ecosystem.

The company is also working toward making credit information more accessible to individuals, empowering them to understand their creditworthiness and encouraging responsible financial behavior.

Driving Inclusive Growth Through Credit Awareness

As CIBI continues to expand its database, it deepens its contribution to building a more inclusive economy, one where access to financial opportunities is driven by accuracy, transparency, and trust.

Through partnerships with banks, cooperatives, and fintech innovators, CIBI is showing that data can be a powerful equalizer, bridging the gap between unbanked Filipinos and the formal financial system.

Learn more about how you can take control of your credit at www.cibi.com.ph.

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Visa, RCBC Boost Digital Transit Payments for LRT Expansion

Visa, RCBC Boost Digital Transit Payments for LRT Expansion

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Commuting in Metro Manila is getting a major digital upgrade. Following the successful rollout of open-loop, contactless payments in the MRT-3 earlier this year, Visa is now preparing local banks for the next phase expanding the same seamless system to LRT-1 and LRT-2.

In partnership with Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), Visa recently hosted an urban mobility workshop aimed at helping Philippine banks integrate secure, real-time digital payments into the country’s growing smart transit network.

From Swipe to Tap: The Future of Filipino Commuting

Held in October 2025, the Visa-RCBC forum brought together industry leaders and financial institutions to discuss the next steps for implementing automated fare collection systems in other train lines. The goal? To make every train, bus, or jeepney ride as easy as tapping your card or smartphone.

With the LRT-1 and LRT-2 serving more than 500,000 riders daily, the expansion of contactless payments is set to revolutionize how Filipinos move around the metro. This marks Visa’s fourth transit project in the Philippines, following successful integrations with the MRT-3 and bus systems in Cebu, Mandaue, and Bacolod.

“We fully support the government’s vision of transforming everyday commuting experiences for the public,” said Mylene Bico, Chief Commercial Officer of RCBC Credit Cards. “We hope to launch contactless payment systems in LRT-1 and LRT-2 within the year.”

Digital Payments That Move People and Progress

Visa’s open-loop system allows riders to simply tap a Visa card or mobile wallet at turnstiles — no need to reload stored-value cards or wait in long lines. Beyond convenience, it’s part of a bigger push for financial inclusion and smart urban mobility.

According to the Visa Economic Empowerment Institute, contactless fare systems can boost ridership by up to 10%. Across Asia-Pacific, 94% of commuters prefer transport systems that accept digital payments, while 45% say they’d travel more often if it were easier to pay.

“Enabling commuters to use their cards and smartphones to pay is a step toward broadening digital and financial inclusion,” shared Jeffrey Navarro, Visa Philippines Country Manager. “When we remove barriers to digital systems, we make transport more efficient and help uplift the economy.”

Towards a Smarter, More Connected Philippines

With over 870 tap-to-ride projects worldwide, Visa is bringing global best practices to local shores helping transform the Philippines into a hub for smart, sustainable transport infrastructure.

This shift isn’t just about convenience; it’s about improving productivity, reducing congestion, and promoting inclusive economic growth. For Filipino commuters, the daily grind might soon feel a little smoother  one tap at a time.

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Eastern Communications Partners with Nexusguard for Cybersecurity

Eastern Communications Partners with Nexusguard for Cybersecurity

Sunday, October 5, 2025

A Strong Alliance for a Safer Digital Future

As businesses across the Philippines continue to digitize, cybersecurity has become more critical than ever. To address this growing need, Eastern Communications—one of the country’s premier telecommunications providers—has partnered with Nexusguard, a global leader in Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) mitigation and cloud-based security solutions.

The partnership was officially unveiled at Manila House in Taguig City on September 25, 2025, bringing together tech leaders, government representatives, and industry partners for an exclusive event that marked a significant milestone in the nation’s digital resilience journey.

Reinforcing Philippine Cybersecurity

This collaboration merges Eastern’s robust infrastructure and local expertise with Nexusguard’s cutting-edge Bastions Technology, a proprietary system that protects businesses from evolving cyber threats. Together, they aim to deliver comprehensive, scalable, and reliable protection for enterprises, government agencies, and service providers across the country.

“We are proud to partner with Eastern Communications to extend our mission of safeguarding businesses from evolving cyber threats,” said Andy Ng, CEO of Nexusguard. “With Nexusguard Bastions Technology, Philippine organizations can now access world-class protection that ensures business continuity and peace of mind.”

For Eastern Communications, this partnership reflects its commitment to evolve alongside its customers’ needs in an increasingly digital-first environment.

“By joining forces with Nexusguard, we’re reinforcing our promise to provide not just reliable connectivity, but also world-class security,” shared Atty. Aileen Regio and Jaeson Evangelista, Co-Coordinators of Eastern Communications.

Introducing DDoS-Protected Eastern IDS

The collaboration launched the DDoS-Protected Eastern IDS (Internet Direct Service)—a premium, high-speed, dedicated internet solution built for business continuity and productivity. Powered by fiber-leased line technology, this service offers symmetrical upload and download speeds of up to 10 Gbps, ensuring round-the-clock secure connectivity.

More than just fast internet, it’s a cyber-secure solution that shields organizations from disruptions caused by DDoS attacks, allowing them to operate confidently even in the face of cyber threats. Backed by resilient global backbone access, the DDoS-Protected IDS aligns perfectly with Eastern’s “High Tech, High Touch” philosophy—delivering both advanced technology and personalized service.

Strengthening Digital Resilience for the Future

The event also featured a symbolic partnership launch, awards presentation, and industry networking that emphasized the growing need for cybersecurity amid the Philippines’ rapid digital transformation. The timing was fitting—as the partnership debuted ahead of National Cybersecurity Month in October, reinforcing the message of vigilance and collaboration in protecting the nation’s digital economy.

Through this alliance, Eastern Communications and Nexusguard are paving the way for a more secure and connected Philippines, ensuring that enterprises large and small can thrive in the digital era without fear of disruption.

This partnership sets a new standard for corporate cybersecurity in the Philippines. With Eastern’s local reliability and Nexusguard’s global expertise, businesses now have the tools to stay connected, protected, and future-ready.

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Breaking barriers through digital healthcare, PH healthcare mega app mWell brings Hong Kong OFWs closer to Pinoy doctors

Breaking barriers through digital healthcare, PH healthcare mega app mWell brings Hong Kong OFWs closer to Pinoy doctors

Tuesday, May 9, 2023

Responding to the need of Filipino migrant workers in Hong Kong for access to doctors who speak their language, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation’s (MPIC) mWell partnered with the Department of Migrant Workers to enable Overseas Filipino Workers (DMW) to conveniently consult Pinoy doctors using the mWell app. The collaboration was launched at the town hall meeting with key DMW officials and leaders of the Filipino Community (FILCOM) at the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong. As the Philippines’ first and only health app available globally, this milestonemarks the first step in mWell’s mission to bring healthcare closer to Filipinos in all parts of the world. 

mWell Chairman and MPIC Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinansays, “Metro Pacific Group’s mWell is the Philippines’ first fully integrated health app which brings together experts in technology, medicine, wellness, and healthcare in one sustainable living ecosystem. This high-performing platform gives access to quality healthcare and empowers our countrymen to be in control of their health. We shall continue to set the standards in digital healthcare as we build a healthier nation and be recognized as the flag carrier for innovative digital healthcare.”

During the launch of the mWell-DMW collaboration in Hong Kong, mWell CEO and President and MPIC Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer Chaye Cabal-Revilla recognized the great sacrifice of migrant workers to provide a better life for their family and explained how the mWell app can help ensure that they are able to protect their health which is their biggest investment. 

“Our goal is to make health and wellness accessible, available, and affordable to all Filipinos anytime, anywhere. With the mWell app, even those working in Hong Kong can now easily talk to Pinoy doctors who understand their language and can provide the medical advice that they need right away. With the mWell app’s wellness features, our migrant workers can take control of their health empowering them to be more productive, become healthier, and live their best life with their families,” said Ms.Cabal-Revilla.

Consul General Raly Tejada paid tribute to the FILCOM leaders present in the Town Hall and implored their continued support for the Philippine Consulate in Hong Kong. “You are the ones who inspire the Consulate to work even harder. We make sure that all your concerns are taken care of,”Tejada said. 

Since the overall well-being of OFWs is a key concern, DMW Undersecretary for Finance and Internal Affairs Maria Antonette Allones highlighted the role of partnerships in ensuring their health and welfare. “Pangalagaan ang inyong mga sarili. Importante na kayo ay laging well. Parte dito ang ang partnership ng DMW sa mWell,” said Undersecretary Allones in her message to the community leaders. Her statement supports Migrant Workers Secretary Susan Ople’s message during the partnership agreement signing ceremony with mWell in Manila. “We appreciate the partnership through the MOA that we signed with mWell so that OFWs can contact doctors who speak their language through the mWell app.”

In partnership with UnionDigital Bank, mWell provided Hong Kong migrant workers with health passes for FREE online consultation. Huawei raffled off a laptop to be delivered to the family of the chosen OFW in the Philippines and donated a tablet to the Bethune house. The tablet will be used by the migrant workers in their shelter for online consultations. 

Empowering OFWs to face health challenges away from home

Most of Hong Kong OFWs are not fluent in English or Cantonese, making it difficult for them to communicate with local healthcare providers. Being away from their family and support system over long periods of time also takes a toll on their mind health. Some are exposed to occupational health hazards in certain industries. On top of all these, they must bear the high cost of healthcare. 

Harnessing the power of technology, mWell’s globally recognized platform gives OFWs access to over 800highly-trained Filipino partner-doctors —internal medicine doctors, cardiologists, endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, and more. Mind health experts are just a few taps away.To help ease their financial worries, affordable health plans for doctor consultations are easily within reach. 

The availability of health passes which may be sent as gift to families in the Philippines is made possible through a partnership with Tindahan ni Bossing (TINBO) by PLDT Global. OFWs can provide the gift of health by sending their families affordable mWell health plans which includes online consultation, free medical certificate, and e-prescription.

With the health and wellbeing of Filipinos in mind, mWell also promotes preventive healthcare as the Philippines’ healthcare mega app.It has an mWellness Score developed by data scientists, which measures physical health based on daily activities – exercise, light activity, steps, sleep. This serves as a guide to achieving a healthy physical lifestyle to fight against chronic diseases and attain long-term health. Specialized fitness programs and calorie-controlled recipes created by nutritionists are also easily accessible. 

mWell unveils advocacy program for workers in the Philippines

Aside from migrant workers in Hong Kong, mWell also provides free online consultation services for daily wage earners including tricycle drivers and market vendors asLabor Day tribute.

In a series of on-ground events, mWell shall bring its health and wellness advocacy to select communities in the country. The feature shall also feature wellness and livelihood talks, plusZumba sessions to encouragehealthy and active lifestyle. 

On top of this, Mind Health sessionsfeaturing expert psychologists will be conducted for office employees in partner companies as part of the mWell@Work program.

Committed to change lives through the power of technology, mWell is the only healthcare app among the convenor organizations and supporting companies of the GoDigitalPilipinas (GDP) movement.

mWell was recently named the winner of two Gold Stevie® Awards in the Innovation in Health & Wellness and Most Innovative Startup of the Year- Business Service Industriescategories in the 10th annual Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards.It is the only Philippine entry to bring home the Gold Award in these two categories. Bronze winners include Vietnam, Taiwan, and Australia.

The two Gold Stevie® Awards come at the heels of being chosen as the Best Mobile Innovation for Digital Life in the 2023 Global Mobile (GLOMO) Awards, held during the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain. 

As part of the MPIC Group, mWell is committed to working towards the achievement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. It also supports the MVP Group’s GabayKalusugan advocacy focusing on quality and affordable healthcare.

Download the mWell PH app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and register. Follow mWell on Facebook and mwellph on Instagram for more updates.

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