World’s First Rel-19 5G-Advanced NTN Test Achieved

World’s First Rel-19 5G-Advanced NTN Test Achieved

Thursday, November 13, 2025

A breakthrough that pushes satellite-powered 5G closer to everyday use

In a landmark achievement for satellite communications, the European Space Agency (ESA), MediaTek, Eutelsat, Airbus, Sharp, ITRI, and Rohde & Schwarz have successfully completed the world’s first 5G-Advanced (Rel-19) Non-Terrestrial Network (NR-NTN) connection using Eutelsat’s OneWeb low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites.

This milestone marks a major step toward integrating satellites with terrestrial 5G networks, opening doors for global connectivity solutions that can reach even the most remote regions.

A Successful Rel-19 NR-NTN Trial Over OneWeb LEO Satellites

The collaborative test used OneWeb’s LEO constellation in combination with MediaTek’s NR-NTN chipset, ITRI’s NR-NTN gNB, and Sharp’s newly developed flat-panel antenna. The system implemented key 3GPP Release 19 specifications, including:

• Ku-band operations
• 50MHz channel bandwidth
• Conditional handover (CHO)
• End-to-end connection to a 5G core

The OneWeb satellites built by Airbus Defence and Space feature transparent transponders with Ku-band service links and Ka-band feeder links, operating with “Earth-moving beams” for improved global coverage.

During the live test, the NTN terminal successfully linked to the ground 5G system through the gateway antenna at ESA’s European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in The Netherlands.

A Path to Universal 5G Connectivity

The demonstration shows how future devices will be able to switch seamlessly between terrestrial networks and satellite signals, ensuring reliable coverage wherever users go. With global 3GPP standards now supporting NTN capability, satellite broadband can become more cost-efficient, scalable, and widely available  expanding possibilities for smartphones, vehicles, IoT devices, and critical infrastructure.

ESA noted that the success of this trial highlights the importance of joint innovation. David Phillips of ESA emphasized that partnerships like this strengthen Europe’s competitiveness and help accelerate next-generation connectivity solutions.

Industry Leaders React to the Breakthrough

MediaTek highlighted its mission to deliver connectivity where cellular networks are limited, calling the successful real-world test an important step toward commercial NTN broadband.

Eutelsat shared pride in being the first satellite operator to enable NR-NTN broadband over Ku-band LEO satellites, pointing to the strong value of cross-industry collaboration in shaping the future of satellite-enabled 5G.

Airbus emphasized the adaptability of its OneWeb satellites and celebrated the milestone as a major leap toward seamless global broadband for 5G devices.

Sharp called the success a significant step toward real-world NTN deployment and noted its commitment to advancing worldwide communications infrastructure.

ITRI reiterated the potential of NR-NTN technology to deliver ubiquitous coverage and expressed readiness to support emerging NTN opportunities through continued innovation.

Finally, Rohde & Schwarz highlighted its testing solutions that enabled rigorous NTN channel measurements, paving the way for commercial 5G-Advanced NTN devices.

The Future of Connectivity Is Hybrid

This breakthrough demonstrates how close the world is to achieving fully integrated 5G and satellite systems. As more constellations and chipsets adopt 3GPP NTN standards, users will gain access to resilient connectivity  no matter where they live or travel.

For industries and communities in hard-to-reach locations, this could redefine what it means to stay connected.

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Discovery Capital and Kredit Hero Empower Filipino SMEs

Discovery Capital and Kredit Hero Empower Filipino SMEs

Saturday, November 8, 2025

A powerful partnership for SME growth and financial inclusion

In a move that promises to reshape the financing landscape for Filipino entrepreneurs, Discovery Capital Finance Corporation (DCFC) has teamed up with fintech innovator Kredit Hero, Inc. to make business loans more accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country.

The new alliance combines Discovery Capital’s trusted lending experience with Kredit Hero’s cutting-edge AI technology, creating a partnership that champions the spirit of nation-building one business at a time.

Bringing Finance Closer to Filipino SMEs

For many Filipino entrepreneurs, access to capital remains a major hurdle. With this partnership, DCFC and Kredit Hero are bridging that gap through a hybrid financing model that combines Discovery Capital’s six on-ground offices with Kredit Hero’s nationwide digital reach.

According to Diosdado C. Salang Jr., President of Discovery Capital Finance Corp., the partnership goes beyond business growth, it’s about empowering local communities.

“This collaboration with Kredit Hero is more than just numbers on a balance sheet. It’s about giving entrepreneurs the support they need to thrive and, in turn, uplifting the communities they serve,” he shared.

Accelerating Access Through Technology

Through Kredit Hero’s AI-powered credit marketplace, SMEs can expect faster, more efficient loan processing. This technology-driven approach ensures that even unbanked and underbanked entrepreneurs can connect with financing options that suit their needs without the usual red tape.

The partnership focuses on four key goals:

Expand hybrid footprint: Merge DCFC’s physical offices with Kredit Hero’s online accessibility.

Promote financial inclusion: Reach underserved entrepreneurs across the Philippines.

Enhance borrower experience: Simplify loan processing with quicker approvals.

Boost local economies: Enable more SMEs to create jobs and sustain growth.

Nation-Building Through Inclusive Financing

Both companies share a vision rooted in inclusive growth. As SMEs are often called the backbone of the Philippine economy, this collaboration empowers them to scale up operations, invest in innovation, and strengthen their contribution to the country’s progress.

With Discovery Capital’s commitment to transparent lending and Kredit Hero’s AI-driven solutions, this partnership signals a new era for entrepreneurs—where access to funding is no longer a privilege but a right.

As local businesses continue to navigate post-pandemic recovery, this partnership offers hope and opportunity. It’s a reminder that when innovation meets purpose, Filipino entrepreneurs can dream bigger and achieve more.

If you’re an SME owner looking for financing solutions, keep an eye on Discovery Capital and Kredit Hero, this could be the partnership that helps you take your business to the next level.

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ASEAN Data Science Explorers 2025 Empowers Youth Innovators

ASEAN Data Science Explorers 2025 Empowers Youth Innovators

Tuesday, November 4, 2025

Filipino and ASEAN youth showcase tech-powered solutions for a sustainable, competitive region

In today’s digital era, data is more than just numbers — it’s power. And for hundreds of young changemakers across Southeast Asia, it’s also a tool to solve some of the region’s most pressing problems.

Held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the ASEAN Data Science Explorers (ASEAN DSE) 2025 Regional Finals brought together the brightest students from 10 ASEAN Member States. Organized by the ASEAN Foundation in collaboration with SAP, the event marked the ninth year of this regional competition that challenges students to turn data into actionable insights supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Data-Driven Ideas for Real-World Impact

Using the SAP Analytics Cloud, the finalists presented innovative projects tackling issues such as hunger, sanitation, sustainable cities, and climate action.

The top honor went to Team DataMinions from Lao PDR, whose project Namjai Smart Water Tank detects harmful substances in water and alerts communities and authorities to ensure clean, safe water access. Their innovation aims to address water quality issues across Lao PDR, Cambodia, and the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Team Mamamamoodeng from Thailand and Team MyKXLab from Malaysia secured the first and second runner-up spots, respectively.

“Seeing other teams’ projects was so inspiring,” shared Palinya Sengdalavong and Kounlasatty Manivong of Team DataMinions. “This experience encouraged us to keep improving and create a lasting impact for the ASEAN community.”

Filipino Finalists Spotlight the Water Crisis

Representing the Philippines, Team Sharksfin composed of Lizzie Annika Montemayor and Val Allen Eltagonde from Ateneo de Manila University tackled the region’s growing water crisis with their project HydroLink.

The system integrates a groundwater monitoring device with a mobile app and centralized dashboard, helping communities track water quality in real time.

“In areas like Panglao and Los Baños, residents face salinity and bacterial contamination in drinking water,” the team explained. “With HydroLink, we hope to transform a last-mile crisis into a first-mile opportunity for data generation and community empowerment.”

Bridging the Digital Skills Gap in ASEAN

The ASEAN DSE program addresses an urgent challenge: preparing the region’s youth for a data-driven global economy.

A 2022 ASEAN Foundation and Google study revealed that over 72% of underserved youth in ASEAN lack advanced digital skills, even as demand for data-savvy professionals rises. Through workshops and competitions, ASEAN DSE empowers young people especially those from underserved communities  to build technical skills, creativity, and confidence in solving regional challenges.

Since its inception in 2017, ASEAN DSE has reached over 111,000 youths and 3,300 educators, with 55% of participants being women  highlighting the program’s commitment to inclusivity and equality in tech.

Leaders Champion Digital Readiness

Supported by the Ministry of Education Malaysia under the ASEAN Chairmanship 2025, this year’s regional finals emphasized the importance of digital literacy for sustainable growth.

“The ASEAN DSE programme shows how collaboration can drive innovation and equip youth with future-ready skills,” said Dr. Mohd. Azam Ahmad, Director General of the Ministry of Education Malaysia. “It aligns with Malaysia’s Education Blueprint and prepares our young people to thrive in a digitally connected world.”

Echoing this, Dr. Piti Srisangnam, Executive Director of the ASEAN Foundation, described the initiative as a cornerstone in youth empowerment.

“By providing digital tools and data skills, we enable young talents to innovate and contribute to ASEAN’s development,” he said.

Liher Urbizu, President and Managing Director of SAP Southeast Asia, added:

“Our collaboration with ASEAN Foundation reinforces SAP’s mission to empower the next generation with entrepreneurial and digital skills that can drive positive change.”

The Future Is Data-Driven and Youth-Led

The ASEAN DSE 2025 Regional Finals prove that the youth aren’t just future leaders, they’re already shaping solutions today. From fighting climate change to solving water crises, these students are turning insights into impact, data into development, and dreams into action.

For Filipino youth, it’s a reminder that the power to create change lies in curiosity, creativity, and collaboration with data as their strongest ally.

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EastWest BizAccess Visa Debit Empowers Filipino SMEs

EastWest BizAccess Visa Debit Empowers Filipino SMEs

Friday, October 31, 2025

A new way for SMEs to bank smarter, faster, and more securely

Managing a business in today’s fast-paced world can be challenging—especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that make up 99% of businesses in the Philippines. Recognizing this, EastWest, in partnership with Visa, has launched the BizAccess Visa Debit, an innovative business banking solution designed to help entrepreneurs simplify their financial management and take full control of their operations.

This new product combines a checking account, digital tools, and Visa-powered features that empower business owners to handle everything from daily transactions to cash flow management—all in one convenient platform.

Simplifying business banking for the modern entrepreneur

The EastWest BizAccess Visa Debit Card lies at the heart of this new business banking experience. It allows entrepreneurs to separate business and personal funds, track transactions in real time, and manage payments securely—from purchasing supplies to paying vendors.

Business owners can also issue up to ten BizAccess cards to their staff, giving them a streamlined way to monitor expenses under one account. Each card comes with travel accident insurance, instant transaction notifications, and access to exclusive Visa promos and rewards designed especially for SMEs.

As a launch treat, EastWest is waiving over-the-counter fees for deposits and withdrawals and offering a special welcome promo to new BizAccess users.

Empowering growth with EasyBiz Online Business Banking

The BizAccess Visa Debit Card is paired with the BizAccess Checking Account, which requires a minimum maintaining balance of ₱25,000. Through EasyBiz Online Business Banking, entrepreneurs gain full digital control over their finances.

From viewing balances and paying suppliers to processing government dues via eGov and handling corporate bills, EasyBiz helps SMEs save time and stay organized. The platform even includes card lock and unlock features, adding an extra layer of control and security.

Celebrating Filipino entrepreneurship

During the launch, EastWest and Visa honored several inspiring business partners who embody Filipino creativity and resilience: Aficionado, Bosch Car Service, Colombo Merchant Philippines, Kenzo and Kloe’s Nature Farm, and Nacho King. These brands represent the diverse industries that BizAccess aims to support—from retail and food to automotive and agriculture.

EastWest Chief Executive Officer Jerry Ngo expressed pride in launching a solution tailored for the country’s entrepreneurial backbone:

“SMEs are the backbone of the Philippine economy, and we’re proud to give them the tools they need to thrive. BizAccess goes beyond being a debit card—it’s a business partner that helps entrepreneurs manage finances easily, securely, and confidently.”

Sid Bada, Visa’s Head of Clients, Visa Philippines, added:

“With BizAccess, SMEs gain access to trusted and convenient payment solutions that simplify how they operate while also connecting them to Visa’s global network of offers and rewards.”

Making business banking simple and empowering

SME owners and decision-makers can now apply for the EastWest BizAccess Visa Debit Card at any EastWest Store nationwide. Entrepreneurs can easily open their BizAccess Checking Account online, activate their cards via EasyBiz, and start enjoying a smarter way to bank.

For more details, visit www.eastwestbanker.com/business/deposits/bizaccess.

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Wells Water Purifiers Bring Korean Innovation to Filipino Homes

Wells Water Purifiers Bring Korean Innovation to Filipino Homes

Sunday, October 26, 2025

Korean Engineering Meets Filipino Lifestyles

Imagine a water purifier that’s not just functional, but stylish enough to be the centerpiece of your kitchen. That’s exactly what Wells, a premium Korean home appliance brand, showcased in Manila as it officially introduced its line of state-of-the-art water purifiers to Filipino homes.

At an exclusive media launch held in the city, Wells highlighted its flagship model, The One, alongside its latest innovation, Slim One both designed to redefine everyday hydration with a perfect blend of Korean technology and modern design sensibility.

The One: Where Smart Technology Meets Award-Winning Design

Leading the lineup is Wells The One, a masterpiece that proves clean water can come from a device that looks as beautiful as it functions.

The One features a 180-degree rotating body, a motion-sensing system, and a 2.8-inch full-color display, the first of its kind among Korean water purifiers. Despite its cutting-edge features, it maintains a sleek profile with an ultra-compact 8.8 cm diameter that fits even the coziest kitchens.

Recognized for its engineering excellence and aesthetics, The One has received four major international design awards and comes in Red, Dark Brown, Mint, Pink, and White  colors that perfectly complement Filipino homes with a modern flair.

Slim One: Compact Design, Powerful Purification

For those who want powerful purification in a smaller package, Wells also introduced the Slim One, one of the slimmest water purifiers in Korea’s industry. It’s powered by patented third-generation dual pipe technology, which minimizes size without compromising performance.

What truly makes it stand out is its Mineral Care System, the first in Korea to be introduced locally, which enriches water with essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium, and silica.

Available in Marble White, Marble Gray, and Rose Gold, the Slim One doesn’t just purify your water, it enhances your home’s aesthetic appeal.

Wells: Redefining Everyday Wellness with Style

“Wells is all about elevating your lifestyle through premium water purification,” shared Avelyn Lim, Vice President of Larx Trading, Wells’ official partner in the Philippines.

“For a decade, Wells perfected the art of combining Korean engineering precision with thoughtful design. Now, we’re bringing that excellence to Filipino families who deserve nothing less than the best.”

Unlike traditional water purifiers designed purely for function, Wells approaches purification as a lifestyle experience. Each product embodies Korean minimalism and precision, transforming the simple act of drinking water into a daily luxury.

Perfect for Modern Filipino Homes

Wells’ entry into the Philippine market comes at a time when local homeowners are becoming more health-conscious and design-oriented. The brand bridges these two growing priorities, proving that wellness and elegance can co-exist seamlessly in one appliance.

For Filipinos who value quality, aesthetics, and efficiency, Wells is more than just a water purifier, it’s a statement of modern living.

If you’re ready to upgrade your hydration experience, look no further than Wells. Because your family deserves clean water that’s as refined as your lifestyle.

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Philippine Startup Week 2025 Returns: Scaling Filipino Startups to Global Heights

Philippine Startup Week 2025 Returns: Scaling Filipino Startups to Global Heights

Thursday, October 23, 2025

Philippine Startup Week (PHSW) 2025 returns on November 10–14 to champion Filipino innovation and empower startups to expand beyond local borders.

The country’s premier startup gathering, themed “Scaling Filipino Innovation: Start Local, Go Global”, will feature insights on the world-class nature of local startups and how they can seize opportunities to broaden their impact globally.

PHSW has been organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for the past six years. Come 2024, the three esteemed government agencies unite to form the Innovation Startup Act (ISA) Steering Committee, bolstering the government’s support for startups and innovations in the country. This year’s conference, with the National Development Company (NDC)—in collaboration with the Strategic and Collaborative Alliance for Leveraging Ecosystems of Startups–National Capital Region (SCALE NCR), will take a bolder approach to help local startups thrive on the global stage.

The festivities celebrating Filipino ingenuity extend beyond talks and panels. Philippine Startup Week 2025’s main conferences will be in the newly opened Philippine Innovation Hub in Marikina. Within those five floors, delegates will find multiple conference stages, community events, a startup expo, and partners’ booths.

The week-long celebration is anchored on five signature tracks that define the Philippine Startup Week experience: (1) Discover – exploring technopreneurship, the local startup ecosystem, and how to launch a venture; (2) Collaborate – working with key stakeholders to amplify innovation and growth; (3) Develop – strengthening ideas through mentorship and support to scale; (4) Showcase – highlighting tech startups through nationwide pitching opportunities; and (5) Invest – fueling breakthrough ventures that shape the future.

Attendees can hear from the ISA on upcoming initiatives to strengthen the country’s startup ecosystem, and network with prominent startup enablers, champions, venture capital (VC) firms, and top startups of the country.

Philippine Startup Week 2025 is the country’s largest startup conference, dedicated to showcasing Filipino innovators who create solutions for local and global challenges. It’s the space for collaboration, connection, and inspiration.

We invite founders, investors, advocates, and anyone interested in exploring the Philippine startup community to come.

Visit www.phstartupweek.com for all things Philippine Startup Week 2025 — from participant registration to exhibitor, partner, and community event opportunities.

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