Eastern Communications Supports Mangrove Rehabilitation Efforts in Bacolod

Eastern Communications Supports Mangrove Rehabilitation Efforts in Bacolod

Tuesday, June 23, 2026

Protecting the environment has become a shared responsibility among businesses, communities, and local governments. As climate-related challenges continue to impact coastal areas across the Philippines, initiatives that strengthen environmental resilience are becoming increasingly important.

Demonstrating its commitment to sustainability, Eastern Communications recently joined fellow members of the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) consortium in a mangrove tree-planting activity in Bacolod City. The initiative underscores the growing role of private sector organizations in supporting climate action, biodiversity conservation, and community development.

Eastern Communications Joins PDSCN Mangrove Tree-Planting Initiative

On May 22, Eastern Communications participated in a mangrove tree-planting activity held in Purok Calubay, Bacolod City.

The environmental initiative forms part of the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) consortium's post-Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) commitments. Alongside consortium members Globe and InfiniVAN, Eastern Communications took part in efforts aimed at restoring and protecting coastal ecosystems while supporting long-term sustainability goals.

The activity was organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) in partnership with the Bago City Local Government Unit, the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Bago, and various community stakeholders.

Through collaborative environmental programs like this, organizations are helping strengthen climate resilience in vulnerable coastal communities.

Why Mangrove Restoration Matters for Coastal Communities

Mangroves are often considered one of nature's most effective defenses against climate-related threats.

During the activity, Bago City Environment and Management Office (CEMO) representative Rex Magbanua led an orientation highlighting the critical role mangrove forests play in protecting shorelines from storm surges, coastal erosion, and flooding.

He referenced the devastating effects of Super Typhoon Odette in 2021, which severely impacted Bacolod City and many parts of Negros Occidental, as a reminder of the need to invest in climate adaptation and environmental protection initiatives.

Healthy mangrove ecosystems provide several benefits, including:

• Protecting coastlines from strong waves and storm surges
• Reducing soil erosion and flooding risks
• Supporting marine biodiversity and fish habitats
• Improving carbon sequestration and climate mitigation efforts
• Sustaining local livelihoods dependent on coastal resources

For communities like Purok Calubay, these environmental benefits directly contribute to both ecological protection and economic stability.

A Community-Based Approach to Climate Resilience

Mangrove tree planting is more than an environmental activity. It is a community-driven effort that creates long-term value for people and ecosystems alike.

By restoring mangrove forests, local communities gain stronger natural protection against extreme weather events while preserving habitats that support fisheries and other coastal industries.

At the same time, these initiatives encourage collaboration between government agencies, private organizations, and residents, fostering a shared commitment to environmental stewardship.

Programs such as these demonstrate how sustainability efforts can create meaningful social impact while supporting broader climate resilience goals.

Eastern Communications Reinforces Its Commitment to Sustainability

For Eastern Communications, environmental initiatives are part of a broader mission to create positive impact beyond connectivity.

Sharing the company's perspective on the activity, Jed Estanislao, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer of Eastern Communications, emphasized the importance of sustainability-focused partnerships and community engagement.

"This initiative reflects our belief that creating meaningful impact goes beyond providing reliable and responsive connectivity," said Estanislao. "By supporting sustainability-driven partnerships and community-centered programs, we aim to help strengthen environmental resilience, empower local communities, and contribute to long-term sustainable development."

The participation in the mangrove rehabilitation effort aligns with the company's ongoing corporate social responsibility initiatives aimed at supporting both environmental and social progress.

Building a More Sustainable Future Through Collaboration

As businesses continue to expand and innovate, sustainability is becoming an increasingly important measure of long-term success.

Eastern Communications' involvement in the PDSCN mangrove tree-planting activity highlights how private sector organizations can contribute to environmental conservation while helping communities prepare for climate-related challenges.

By supporting programs that protect natural ecosystems and strengthen local resilience, companies can play a meaningful role in creating lasting benefits for future generations.

As Eastern Communications continues to grow its presence across the Philippines, the company remains focused on combining future-ready connectivity solutions with initiatives that help protect the environment, empower communities, and create sustainable value for both people and the planet.

Read More

inDrive Awards PHP 2 Million in Driver Incentives and Expands Support Programs

inDrive Awards PHP 2 Million in Driver Incentives and Expands Support Programs

Thursday, June 18, 2026

Ride-hailing drivers play a critical role in keeping Philippine cities moving, but rising fuel prices, traffic congestion, and increasing operational costs continue to put pressure on their daily earnings. As these challenges persist, many transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers are seeking platforms that not only provide earning opportunities but also offer meaningful support beyond the road.

Recognizing these realities, inDrive recently concluded its Platinum Driver Giveaway, a nationwide rewards initiative that distributed more than PHP 2 million worth of incentives, fuel vouchers, livelihood packages, and major prizes to top-performing partner drivers across Metro Manila, Cebu, and Bacolod.

More than just a rewards campaign, the program highlights inDrive's broader commitment to improving driver welfare, increasing earning opportunities, and investing in long-term professional development.

inDrive Rewards Top Drivers with Over PHP 2 Million in Incentives

The Platinum Driver Giveaway was designed to recognize drivers who consistently demonstrated strong performance and excellent service on the platform.

Throughout the campaign period, partner drivers who achieved Platinum status became eligible for weekly raffle draws, giving them the chance to win various rewards aimed at helping offset daily expenses and improve their overall financial situation.

In total, 319 partner drivers received prizes that included:

• Fuel vouchers
• Laptops
• Livelihood packages
• Major raffle prizes

The campaign culminated with several lucky winners taking home some of the program's most exciting rewards.

BYD Seal 5 DMi Headlines Major Prizes

Among the grand prizes awarded was a BYD Seal 5 DMi, providing one fortunate driver with a significant upgrade that could potentially support future mobility and livelihood opportunities.

Other major prizes included:

• M25 EV Motorbike
• Sari-sari store livelihood packages
• Additional special incentives

The livelihood packages were specifically designed to help families establish supplementary income sources beyond ride-hailing operations.

Supporting Drivers Amid Rising Fuel Costs

The campaign comes at a time when many drivers continue to face higher fuel expenses and increasing costs associated with daily transport operations.

According to Vanessa Taqueban, Driver Operations Lead for inDrive Philippines, the initiative was inspired by the resilience and dedication shown by partner drivers despite these challenges.

"Being a TNVS driver comes with its share of challenges, including heavy traffic and expensive fuel. But despite these hurdles, inDrive drivers still show up every single day. This inspired us to come up with this Platinum Driver Giveaway to thank them for their dedication to the job and encourage them to keep on improving their road performance and passenger service," she said.

The rewards program was designed not only to recognize top performers but also to provide practical financial assistance during a period of rising operating costs.

Driver Earnings Increased During the Campaign

Beyond the prizes themselves, the Platinum Driver Campaign also delivered measurable financial benefits for participating drivers.

According to inDrive, partner drivers boosted their weekly earnings by approximately 12% during the campaign period.

The company noted that these improvements were achieved without requiring drivers to spend additional hours on the road, suggesting that many participants were able to improve efficiency while maximizing available opportunities on the platform.

The campaign's success also encouraged more drivers to strive for Platinum status.

Since the initiative's launch, the number of top-performing Platinum drivers has increased by 130% between July 2025 and June 2026.

inDrive Sees Strong Growth in Its Driver Community

As demand for reliable transportation services continues across major urban centers, inDrive has experienced significant growth in its driver network.

As of June 2026, the platform reported that its active driver base had grown by more than 100% compared to May 2025.

This expansion reflects the increasing demand for ride-hailing services as well as the growing appeal of flexible earning opportunities within the mobility sector.

For passengers, a larger driver pool can contribute to shorter wait times and improved service availability.

For drivers, it creates opportunities to participate in a platform that continues to invest in incentive programs and support initiatives.

More Earning Opportunities Through Driver-First Programs

The Platinum Driver Giveaway is just one component of inDrive's broader strategy to support partner drivers.

The company continues to implement several programs aimed at helping drivers increase take-home earnings while reducing operating costs.

Seasonal Incentives and Fuel Support

Throughout the year, inDrive provides additional incentives and top-up bonuses designed to supplement driver income during key periods.

Fuel voucher assistance is also offered to help drivers manage rising transportation costs.

Green Zone Program

One of the platform's most notable initiatives is the Green Zone Program.

Through this program, selected high-demand areas feature reduced commission rates as low as 1%, allowing drivers to keep up to 99% of their earnings from qualifying trips.

This approach helps maximize driver income while maintaining service availability in busy locations.

TESDA Partnership Supports Driver Upskilling

Looking beyond short-term incentives, inDrive is also investing in professional development opportunities for partner drivers.

The company recently partnered with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to launch the Driver Academy.

The initiative will provide drivers with access to training programs focused on:

• Professional development
• Road safety
• Service quality improvement
• Long-term earning opportunities

The goal is to equip drivers with valuable skills that can enhance their careers both within and beyond the ride-hailing industry.

By combining financial incentives with educational opportunities, the program seeks to create more sustainable livelihood pathways for drivers and their families.

Building a Stronger Driver Community

According to Sofia Guinto, Country Manager of inDrive Philippines, strengthening the Platinum Driver community remains a key priority as the platform expands nationwide.

"As inDrive continues its nationwide expansion, it is vital for us to build a stronger Platinum Driver community, as this can create a more reliable riding experience for our passengers," she explained.

She added that the company plans to continue rewarding loyal and high-performing drivers through strategic incentives while creating more opportunities to improve their earning potential.

Why Driver Welfare Matters in the Ride-Hailing Industry

As the ride-hailing sector continues to evolve, driver welfare is becoming an increasingly important factor in maintaining a reliable transportation ecosystem.

Programs that address earnings, fuel costs, professional development, and long-term financial stability can help improve driver retention while enhancing the overall passenger experience.

Through initiatives such as the Platinum Driver Giveaway, Green Zone Program, and the upcoming Driver Academy with TESDA, inDrive is taking steps to support drivers beyond daily trips and commissions.

For many partner drivers, these programs provide not only additional income opportunities but also valuable resources that can contribute to greater financial security for themselves and their families in the years ahead.

Read More

Jollibee Group Expands Jobs Program for Senior Citizens and PWDs in Taguig

Jollibee Group Expands Jobs Program for Senior Citizens and PWDs in Taguig

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Meaningful employment can have a powerful impact on a person's sense of purpose, confidence, and connection to the community. Recognizing this, the Jollibee Group is expanding its inclusive employment initiative for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) through a new partnership with the Taguig City Government.

The collaboration aims to create more opportunities for qualified senior citizens and PWDs who want to remain active in the workforce, reinforcing the company's commitment to inclusion and community development.

Jollibee Group Brings Inclusive Employment Program to Taguig City

Through a newly signed Memorandum of Agreement, the Jollibee Group and the Taguig City Government will work together to provide employment opportunities for senior citizens and persons with disabilities across the city.

The program will be implemented in 16 company-owned stores in Taguig, including branches of Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Burger King.

Under the initiative, each participating store is expected to engage two senior citizens and one PWD, creating dozens of meaningful job opportunities across the city.

The expansion builds on the success of the company's inclusive jobs program, which has already provided employment opportunities to more than 1,000 senior citizens and PWDs since its launch in 2019.

Creating More Opportunities for Senior Citizens and PWDs

The partnership reflects a shared goal of empowering individuals who still have the capacity and desire to work, regardless of age or disability.

By offering accessible employment opportunities, the initiative recognizes the valuable contributions senior citizens and PWDs can continue to make when given the chance to participate in the workforce.

For many individuals, employment provides more than financial support. It also promotes social interaction, personal fulfillment, and a sense of belonging within the community.

How the Taguig City Government Will Support the Program

Several offices within the Taguig City Government will play key roles in implementing and supporting the initiative.

Public Employment Services Office (PESO)

The Public Employment Services Office will be responsible for:

• Receiving applications
• Conducting initial interviews and profiling
• Explaining program qualifications
• Preparing recommendation letters for medical examinations
• Conducting training sessions for qualified applicants before deployment

City Health Office

The City Health Office will oversee:

• Physical examinations
• Medical and laboratory assessments
• Certification of applicants who are fit to work
• Processing and issuance of Mayor's Occupational Permits

Office for Senior Citizens Affairs and PDAO

The Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) and the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) will help:

• Promote awareness of the program
• Disseminate application information
• Conduct debriefing sessions when needed
• Assist with monitoring and evaluation efforts

Jollibee Group's Role in the Initiative

On the company side, the Jollibee Group will facilitate several important stages of the employment process.

These include:

• Conducting interviews
• Providing orientation sessions
• Delivering role-specific training
• Administering minimal examinations
• Assisting qualified applicants in opening payroll bank accounts free of charge

The goal is to ensure participants receive the support they need to transition smoothly into their new roles.

Meaningful Roles That Support Customer Experience

Qualified senior citizens and PWDs may be assigned to customer-facing and lobby-based positions within participating stores.

Potential assignments include:

• Order presenter
• Drink drawer
• Table manager
• Guest relations staff

These roles allow participants to interact with customers, contribute to store operations, and remain active members of the workforce while working in supportive environments.

Inclusion Beyond Employment

According to Joseph Tanbuntiong, CEO of Jollibee Group Philippines and Head of Jollibee Brand Global, the program is about creating opportunities that are both meaningful and respectful.

“This program is meaningful because it gives our senior citizens and persons with disabilities a chance to continue contributing in ways that are seen, valued, and respected,” Tanbuntiong said.

He added that the company believes business growth should also create positive opportunities for communities.

“At the Jollibee Group, we believe that our growth should also create opportunities for people in the communities we serve. Through partnerships like this with Taguig City, we can open more spaces where people can feel productive, connected, and part of something bigger.”

Supporting Purpose, Confidence, and Connection

For the Jollibee Group, the initiative is part of a broader sustainability and inclusion agenda that seeks to create positive social impact beyond business operations.

Ruth Angeles, Chief HR Officer of Jollibee Group Philippines and HR Head of Jollibee Brand Global, emphasized that employment can have benefits that go far beyond income.

“Work can give people more than income. It can give confidence, friendship, and a renewed sense of purpose,” Angeles said.

“That is why this program matters to us. It reminds us that inclusion is not just a policy or a program. It is something we make real when we welcome people into our teams, support them in their roles, and recognize the value they bring every day.”

Strengthening Inclusive Workplaces in the Philippines

As conversations around workplace diversity and inclusion continue to grow, initiatives like this highlight how businesses and local governments can work together to create opportunities for sectors that are often overlooked.

By expanding its inclusive jobs program to Taguig City, the Jollibee Group is helping create pathways for senior citizens and persons with disabilities to remain active, engaged, and empowered.

More importantly, the initiative demonstrates that inclusive employment is not simply about filling roles. It is about recognizing people's abilities, creating environments where they can thrive, and building communities where everyone has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully.

Read More

Restoring Nature, Empowering Community: The Rise of Women-Led Ecotourism in Southeast Asia

Restoring Nature, Empowering Community: The Rise of Women-Led Ecotourism in Southeast Asia

Monday, June 8, 2026

For a tropical archipelago known for its thousands of islands and remarkable biodiversity, the Philippines has long been a favorite destination for travelers. Ecotourism is emerging as one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing travel trends, offering experiences that blend environmental conservation, cultural immersion, and community development. Backed by the country’s rich natural assets, supportive policies, and rising demand for eco-friendly travel, the Philippine ecotourism market is projected to reach USD 12.4 billion by 2034.

This growth comes as the tourism and hospitality sector continues to rely heavily on women, who make up about 52% of the Asia-Pacific tourism workforce and more than half globally. Yet many remain in lower-paying, temporary, or informal roles, contributing to a regional gender pay gap of around 14.7%. As the industry thrives, empowering women through more sustainable and inclusive tourism models has become increasingly important.

Across the Philippines, women‑led initiatives are diversifying ecotourism projects while reducing reliance on mass tourism models. From the Bantayan Women’s Association, which combines mangrove conservation with eco-guiding, to women entrepreneurs in the Cordillera Indigenous Homestays, who showcase weaving, rice-terrace farming, and indigenous storytelling, these efforts create livelihoods while preserving local heritage.

These ecotourism models are also being shared across borders with Indonesia, where communities such as Tukamasea Village in South Sulawesi have embraced women-led participation and sustainable tourism as tools for environmental restoration, stronger local governance, and long-term economic resilience.

From Floods and Crop Failure to Inclusive and Fair Financial Literacy for Tukamasea Village Governance

In 2024, repeated floods triggered by land degradation, shrinking water catchment areas, and upstream land clearing devastated Tukamasea Village in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. The disaster submerged 82 hectares of farmland, damaged critical infrastructure, including farm roads and irrigation systems, and severely disrupted livelihoods in Manarang Hamlet. Faced with declining incomes and worsening environmental conditions, residents recognized that active involvement in village development planning was no longer optional, but an urgent necessity.

In response, the Village Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMDes) established the Budget Reading Group (KBA), a community forum that promotes transparency, participation, and accountability in village development. Women have become the driving force behind the initiative, holding 13 of the group's 15 seats and helping transform residents from passive observers into active contributors to decision-makers.

“Through KBA, we learned that the village budget does not belong to a few people, but to everyone, including for guarding the environment and the future of the village,” said Sirawarti Ona Lewenussa (known as Ona), member of KBA in Tukamasea Village.

Today, the KBA convenes weekly to gather community feedback, develop proposals, and elevate local priorities to sub-district development planning meetings (musrenbang), ensuring public funds address community needs while supporting long-term environmental stewardship.

PINUS Mentorship and Strengthening Village Governance

The KBA’s growth was supported by mentorship from PINUS South Sulawesi, which equipped residents with the skills to navigate the RPJMDes, understand long-term development strategies, and design ecology-based programs. The training also introduced residents to Ecological-Based District Budget Transfers (TAKE), a performance-based funding mechanism tied to environmental outcomes. As a result, the village government adopted greater transparency, publicly disclosed the Village Budget (APBDes), and adjusted spending priorities to better support women, vulnerable groups, and sustainable development.

“We do not just learn to read the budget, but also monitor and evaluate village fund programs so they truly answer the needs of the poor and protect the environment,” said Ona.

Beyond budget literacy, KBA has become a key advocate for environmental resilience, proposing initiatives such as tree planting in flood-prone areas, river dredging, and land rehabilitation around former mining sites. This advocacy has translated into tangible investments, with the village allocating 110 million IDR for tourism infrastructure in 2022, followed by 139.6 million IDR in 2023 and 138.5 million IDR in 2024, supporting tourism growth while safeguarding local ecosystems.

“This mentorship is not just about teaching technical skills, but building awareness that the village budget is a shared tool to answer social, environmental, and economic needs,” said Rizky Awalita (known as Rere), Project Officer for PINUS South Sulawesi.

Village Tourism, Youth Education, and Restorative Economic Impact

One of the clearest outcomes of KBA’s oversight is the growth of Dolli Tourism, which began with 500 million IDR in village funding and has since attracted nearly 1 billion IDR in total investment. From 2021 to 2025, the destination generated more than 1 billion IDR in gross revenue and delivered annual net returns of 60 to 65 million IDR to the village. Managed jointly by the Village-Owned Enterprise (BUMDes) and the Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis), the initiative channels around 60% tourism revenue back into local livelihoods and community development.

As Rere noted, “Residents are starting to see that guarding nature and managing village potential together can open jobs and increase welfare.”

The economic impact extends well beyond tourism operations. The site directly employs 17 residents and supports around 20 women-led MSMEs operating nearby. Tourism revenues have also funded scholarships for 240 underprivileged students, from elementary school to university, between 2021 and 2024. It has become a successful example of a restorative economy as the foundation of the village.

Looking ahead, KBA aims to expand eco-friendly development, create more employment opportunities, and ensure growth remains inclusive and sustainable.

“We want KBA to remain a learning space and a policy guardian, so that village development truly sides with the citizens and nature,” said Ona.

Read More