Jollibee Group Earns Three ESG Awards for Manufacturing Sustainability Initiatives

Jollibee Group Earns Three ESG Awards for Manufacturing Sustainability Initiatives

Friday, August 7, 2026

The Jollibee Group has received three awards at the 2026 Inquirer ESG Edge Impact Awards, recognizing sustainability initiatives that have helped reduce waste, conserve water, and improve energy efficiency across its manufacturing and logistics operations.

The awards highlight how operational improvements behind the scenes can contribute to environmental goals while supporting business efficiency. The company received Gold awards for Waste Management and Responsible Consumption, Production and Manufacturing and Energy Efficiency, along with a Silver award for Water Management and Efficiency.

Which sustainability projects were recognized?

The awards honored three initiatives implemented by Jollibee Group's Manufacturing and Logistics team:

Zero Waste in Action: Transforming Manufacturing Through Circular Solutions – Gold for Waste Management and Responsible Consumption, Production and Manufacturing

Project Scale Up – Gold for Energy Efficiency

Project Hugas – Silver for Water Management and Efficiency

According to the company, the projects form part of its long-term effort to improve environmental performance while maintaining food safety, product quality, and operational efficiency.

How did Project Hugas reduce water consumption?

Project Hugas focused on improving water use across manufacturing facilities by redesigning cleaning processes.

The initiative replaced conventional crate-washing methods with optimized pan-washing systems and introduced demand-based water pressure controls.

Since its 2020 baseline, the company says the project has reduced water consumption by 301,000 cubic meters—roughly equivalent to 120 Olympic-sized swimming pools—despite a 30% increase in production during the same period.

What is water efficiency?

Water efficiency refers to using less water while achieving the same operational results. In manufacturing, this often involves upgrading equipment, improving cleaning systems, and reducing unnecessary water use without affecting product quality or safety.

What is Project Scale Up?

Project Scale Up aims to lower electricity consumption across Jollibee Group's manufacturing network.

Implemented in 10 commissaries and one logistics warehouse, the project includes equipment upgrades, utility optimization, and the use of more energy-efficient technologies.

According to the company, the initiative reduced electricity consumption by 1,470,146 kilowatt-hours in 2025, an amount estimated to power approximately 612 households for one year, while production also increased by 30%.

How does Zero Waste in Action support a circular economy?

The Zero Waste in Action initiative focuses on minimizing waste generated during food manufacturing and distribution.

The project addresses issues such as:

• Plastic packaging waste
• Food waste
• Material recovery
• Waste reduction at the source
• Circular resource management

From its baseline measurement, Jollibee Group reported reducing total waste by 8 million kilograms, equivalent to preventing roughly 800 garbage trucks of waste from reaching landfills.

Despite higher production volumes, the company says it achieved a 40% reduction in waste generation.

What is a circular economy?

A circular economy is a production model that keeps materials in use for as long as possible through reuse, recycling, and waste reduction instead of following the traditional "take, make, dispose" approach.

Sustainability and business performance

Jollibee Group's Global Chief Integration, Sustainability, and Corporate Affairs Officer, Pepot Miñana, said the awards demonstrate that environmental sustainability and operational excellence can work together rather than compete with one another.

Meanwhile, Michael Ong, President of Manufacturing and Logistics, noted that the initiatives were developed by commissary operations teams with the goal of improving efficiency while maintaining food safety and quality standards.

The projects are part of the company's broader Joy for Tomorrow sustainability agenda, which focuses on three pillars:

• Food
• People
• Planet

Manufacturing facilities often consume significant amounts of energy, water, and raw materials. Improving efficiency in these operations can reduce environmental impact while lowering operating costs over time.

For food manufacturers, sustainability initiatives increasingly focus on conserving natural resources, minimizing waste, and improving operational resilience without compromising food safety or product quality.

The recognition also reflects a broader trend among large food companies to integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into everyday operations rather than treating sustainability as a standalone program.

The Jollibee Group's three awards at the 2026 Inquirer ESG Edge Impact Awards highlight the role operational improvements can play in advancing corporate sustainability goals. By reducing waste, lowering energy consumption, and conserving water across its manufacturing network, the company demonstrates how environmental initiatives can support both business performance and long-term resource management.

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EastWest Investment Banking Earns Industry Recognition for Capital Market Transactions

EastWest Investment Banking Earns Industry Recognition for Capital Market Transactions

Monday, August 3, 2026

As more Philippine companies turn to the capital markets to finance expansion, infrastructure, and long-term growth, investment banks continue to play a critical role in connecting businesses with investors. This year, EastWest Investment Banking received two industry recognitions that highlight its participation in major fundraising transactions across the country's equity and debt markets.

The awards recognize the bank's involvement in significant capital market deals, including one of the Philippines' largest initial public offerings (IPOs), as well as its consistent performance in arranging corporate debt issuances. Together, these milestones reflect the growing importance of investment banking in supporting business growth while expanding investment opportunities for the public.

What awards did EastWest Investment Banking receive?

EastWest's Investment Banking team received two notable distinctions in 2026:

• IPO Deal of the Year – Philippines from Asian Banking & Finance for its role as a Domestic Participating Underwriter in the Maynilad Water Services, Inc. initial public offering.

• Recognition as one of the Top 5 Corporate Issue Managers/Arrangers (Bank Category) by the PDS Group, based on its 2025 performance. This marks the sixth consecutive year that EastWest has ranked among the country's top corporate issue managers.

The recognitions acknowledge the bank's work across both the equity and debt capital markets, demonstrating its ability to support companies seeking different forms of financing.

EastWest's role in the Maynilad IPO

One of EastWest's most significant transactions in recent years was its participation in the Maynilad Water Services, Inc. IPO, completed on November 7, 2025.

Serving as a Domestic Participating Underwriter, EastWest helped facilitate investor participation during the offering.

According to the announcement, the IPO:

• Gross proceeds approximately ₱34.3 billion
• Historical significance second-largest IPO in Philippine history
• Largest IPO since 2021
• Investor demand oversubscribed 2.7 times

The proceeds are intended to support Maynilad's long-term investments in water and wastewater infrastructure, while the offering also expanded opportunities for domestic and retail investors to participate in one of the country's largest public listings.

Strengthening the debt capital market

Beyond IPOs, EastWest continues to play an active role in the Philippine debt capital market, where companies raise funds by issuing corporate bonds and other debt securities.

Its inclusion among the Top 5 Corporate Issue Managers/Arrangers by the PDS Group reflects sustained activity in helping issuers structure and distribute debt instruments to investors.

Debt capital markets provide businesses with an alternative to bank loans, allowing companies to secure long-term funding while offering investors additional fixed-income investment options.

Capital markets have become an increasingly important source of financing for Philippine businesses as companies pursue infrastructure projects, expansion plans, and strategic investments.

Recognition from organizations such as Asian Banking & Finance and the PDS Group highlights institutions that have contributed significantly to the development of the country's financial markets through successful capital-raising transactions.

Growing opportunities for investors

As more companies access equity and debt markets, retail investors also gain broader opportunities to diversify their investment portfolios.

Successful public offerings and bond issuances expand the range of available investment products while supporting economic activity by providing companies with capital for business growth and infrastructure development.

For financial institutions, maintaining strong relationships with both issuers and investors remains central to building confidence in the capital market and encouraging wider participation.

EastWest Investment Banking's recent industry recognitions underscore its continued participation in some of the Philippine capital market's most significant fundraising transactions. From supporting one of the country's largest IPOs to maintaining a consistent presence in the debt capital market, the bank continues to contribute to financing initiatives that help businesses grow while expanding investment opportunities for the market.

As capital markets continue to evolve, investment banking institutions will remain important intermediaries connecting companies seeking funding with investors looking to participate in the country's economic development.

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Jollibee Foundation Wins CSR Award for Farmer Program

Jollibee Foundation Wins CSR Award for Farmer Program

The Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF) has received national recognition for a farming initiative that places agricultural innovation in the hands of farmers themselves. Its Agri-Tech Facilitators (ATF) Program won the Outstanding CSR Project in Enterprise Development category at the 2026 League of Corporate Foundations CSR Guild Awards, recognizing its contribution to strengthening smallholder farming communities through peer-led learning.

Rather than relying primarily on external agricultural experts, the program trains experienced farmers to become local facilitators who introduce practical technologies, mentor fellow farmers, and encourage the adoption of climate-smart farming practices within their own communities.

Why did the Agri-Tech Facilitators Program receive the award?

The League of Corporate Foundations recognized the program for promoting a sustainable approach to agricultural development, where farmers take an active role in sharing knowledge and introducing innovations suited to local conditions.

The Agri-Tech Facilitators Program forms part of JGF's Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP), which helps smallholder farmers improve productivity while connecting them with institutional buyers, including the Jollibee Group's supply chain.

Instead of depending solely on periodic technical assistance, the initiative develops farmer leaders capable of:

• Testing new agricultural technologies
• Demonstrating climate-smart farming practices
• Mentoring fellow farmers
• Leading community-based agricultural projects
• Encouraging technology adoption within cooperatives

According to JGF President Gisela Tiongson, empowering farmers to become mentors and problem-solvers helps communities sustain agricultural innovations over the long term.

What is farmer-led agricultural extension?

Farmer-led agricultural extension is a development approach where trained farmers share practical knowledge, technologies, and farming techniques directly with other farmers.

Unlike traditional extension programs that rely mainly on government or academic experts, this model leverages local experience and peer learning, making it easier for communities to adopt practices that fit their environment and resources.

The approach is increasingly recognized as an effective way to improve knowledge sharing, strengthen local leadership, and encourage long-term adoption of agricultural innovations.

How the program builds local agricultural leaders

Participants undergo a combination of classroom instruction, field-based learning, mentoring, and community practicums before becoming certified Agri-Tech Facilitators.

Training covers several key areas, including:

• Climate-smart agriculture
• Agricultural extension
• Participatory technology development
• Project implementation
• Proposal writing
• Community facilitation

To improve accessibility, learning materials were translated into Filipino, enabling participants to better apply and share their knowledge within their communities.

The program was developed in partnership with several academic institutions. Ateneo de Cagayan – Xavier University helped design and deliver the training, while Central Luzon State University contributed to the development of learning modules. Meanwhile, the University of the Philippines Los Baños conducted a formative evaluation to assess the program's effectiveness in strengthening participants' leadership, facilitation, and technical skills.

What results has the program achieved?

Since its pilot implementation, the initiative has:

• Trained and certified 18 Agri-Tech Facilitators
• Established 14 agricultural technology demonstration projects
• Shared farming innovations with more than 200 farmers

Demonstration projects introduced technologies such as rain shelters, greenhouse production, drip irrigation, vermicomposting, and green manuring.

The projects also produced measurable improvements in farm productivity.

Rain shelter technology

One facilitator in Laguna introduced rain shelter technology for cabbage farming after experiencing repeated weather-related crop losses.

According to the project results:

• Growing period Reduced from 120 days to 90–105 days
• Marketable harvest Increased from 30 kg to 174 kg

The farmer has since shared the technology with other growers in the community.

Greenhouse tomato production

Another demonstration project showed how greenhouse cultivation improved tomato production:

• Yield increased by 79%
• Plant survival improved from 83.2% to 95.2%
• Production cost per kilogram reduced by 32%
• Net income increased nearly tenfold compared with open-field farming

These results demonstrate how practical technologies, when combined with peer mentoring, can improve farm productivity and profitability.

Why climate-smart farming matters

Climate-smart agriculture refers to farming practices that help increase productivity while improving resilience to climate-related risks such as extreme weather, changing rainfall patterns, and rising temperatures.

For many smallholder farmers in the Philippines, adopting climate-resilient technologies can help reduce crop losses, improve resource efficiency, and strengthen long-term food production.

Programs that encourage farmer-to-farmer learning may also accelerate the spread of practical innovations because participants often trust techniques demonstrated by fellow farmers working under similar conditions.

Smallholder farmers play an important role in the country's food supply, but many continue to face challenges related to climate change, access to technology, and market opportunities.

Initiatives that combine technical training, peer mentoring, and market linkages can help strengthen rural livelihoods while improving agricultural productivity.

By encouraging farmers to become educators and community leaders, the Agri-Tech Facilitators Program supports a more sustainable model of agricultural development that extends beyond individual farms.

The Jollibee Group Foundation's recognition at the 2026 CSR Guild Awards reflects the growing importance of community-driven agricultural development. Through the Agri-Tech Facilitators Program, farmer leaders are equipped not only with technical knowledge but also with the skills to guide others in adopting practical and climate-smart farming practices.

As agriculture continues to face environmental and economic challenges, farmer-led learning models may become increasingly valuable in helping rural communities build resilience, improve productivity, and strengthen participation in institutional markets.

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Maya Wins Two Honors at PR Awards Asia-Pacific 2026

Maya Wins Two Honors at PR Awards Asia-Pacific 2026

Digital financial platform Maya received two major recognitions at the PR Awards Asia-Pacific 2026, earning Gold for Best Brand Collaboration and Silver for Consumer Launch for campaigns that combined marketing with financial technology and customer engagement.

The company was also shortlisted in the PR Event category for its Welcome to Maya Black campaign, extending its streak of recognition at one of the region's leading public relations award programs.

Which campaigns won the awards?

Maya secured the Gold Award for Best Brand Collaboration through its "Save a Housemate. Save with Maya." campaign, created around the 2025 season of Pinoy Big Brother.

Instead of using the show's traditional SMS-based voting system, Maya introduced a Save-to-Vote feature within its app. The mechanism required users to first deposit funds into their Maya accounts before casting votes for their preferred housemates.

The campaign integrated the feature into televised segments and digital fan engagement, encouraging participation while promoting saving as part of the voting experience.

Meanwhile, Maya received the Silver Award in the Consumer Launch category for Welcome to Maya Black, the campaign introducing the company's premium Maya Black Visa Platinum Credit Card.

The launch campaign was also recognized as a finalist in the PR Event category.

What is Maya Black?

Maya Black is a Visa Platinum travel and lifestyle credit card offered through Maya's digital financial platform.

Unlike traditional credit cards that often rely heavily on conventional credit histories, Maya Black uses an AI-driven underwriting framework to assess applicants. This approach aims to broaden access to premium credit products, particularly for individuals who may have limited credit records under traditional evaluation models.

Applications are completed through a fully digital process, reflecting the growing adoption of online financial services in the Philippines.

Why did the campaigns stand out?

Both award-winning campaigns focused on connecting financial products with everyday consumer behavior rather than relying solely on conventional advertising.

The Save-to-Vote campaign incorporated digital savings into a popular entertainment platform, encouraging users to engage with financial services while participating in a television program.

Meanwhile, the Welcome to Maya Black campaign introduced the credit card through a coordinated multimedia rollout, including a black-and-white launch film and synchronized "Blackout" campaign across multiple channels.

According to Maya Group Chief Marketing Officer Pepe Torres, the company's approach centers on developing campaigns that address customer needs while delivering measurable business impact.

The PR Awards Asia-Pacific, organized by Campaign Asia, recognize outstanding public relations and communications campaigns across the region.

The awards evaluate initiatives based on creativity, effectiveness, storytelling, and measurable results, making them one of the established recognition programs for communications professionals in Asia-Pacific.

For brands, recognition at regional industry awards can highlight successful approaches to customer engagement while showcasing how marketing strategies support broader business objectives.

Maya's continued recognition

The latest awards mark Maya's fourth consecutive year of recognition at the PR Awards Asia-Pacific.

Previous award-winning campaigns include:

2022 PayMaya-to-Maya Rebrand

2023 My Money, My Bank, My Way

2024 Get Banked with Maya

2026 Save a Housemate. Save with Maya (Gold); Welcome to Maya Black (Silver)

The continued recognition reflects Maya's ongoing investment in integrating financial services with consumer-focused digital experiences.

Competition among digital financial platforms has expanded beyond payments and banking services to include customer experience and financial education.

Marketing campaigns increasingly serve as channels for introducing new financial products while encouraging behaviors such as saving, responsible credit use, and digital banking adoption.

As fintech companies continue expanding their services, campaigns that combine financial technology with everyday consumer experiences may play a growing role in improving awareness and accessibility.

Maya's recognition at the PR Awards Asia-Pacific 2026 highlights how fintech companies are using integrated marketing campaigns to promote financial products while encouraging greater engagement with digital financial services.

By linking savings to entertainment and introducing premium credit through a fully digital experience, the award-winning campaigns demonstrate how financial technology providers are adapting their customer engagement strategies in an increasingly competitive market.

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Fastly Earns Gartner Customers' Choice Recognition for 2026

Fastly Earns Gartner Customers' Choice Recognition for 2026

Sunday, July 26, 2026

Fastly has been named a 2026 Gartner® Peer Insights™ Customers' Choice for Edge Distribution Platforms, a recognition based entirely on verified customer reviews from organizations using its technology.

The recognition highlights customer satisfaction with Fastly's platform performance, reliability, technical support, and overall user experience. According to Gartner Peer Insights data as of April 30, 2026, Fastly received an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 92 customer reviews, along with a 95% willingness-to-recommend score.

For businesses evaluating cloud infrastructure providers, customer-driven assessments such as Gartner Peer Insights can provide practical insights into how technology performs in real-world environments.

What is Gartner Peer Insights Customers' Choice?

Gartner Peer Insights Customers' Choice is a recognition based on verified reviews from enterprise technology users. Rather than relying on analyst evaluations alone, the distinction reflects direct customer feedback on product capabilities, support quality, and overall ownership experience.

Because reviews come from verified end users across different industries, many organizations use Peer Insights as one factor when comparing enterprise technology vendors.

Why Fastly received the recognition

According to customer feedback published through Gartner Peer Insights, Fastly earned strong ratings across several areas, including:

• Platform reliability
• Content delivery performance
• Technical support
• Security capabilities
• Developer-friendly tools
• Ease of managing complex deployments

The company says these strengths help organizations deliver digital services while maintaining performance and security, particularly as businesses continue expanding cloud-based operations.

Building on previous recognition

The latest recognition follows Fastly's earlier acknowledgment as a Gartner Peer Insights Customers' Choice for Cloud Web Application and API Protection (WAAP), a distinction the company has received for seven consecutive years.

This continued recognition suggests that customers value not only Fastly's content delivery capabilities but also its broader security and application protection services.

For organizations consolidating networking and security services under fewer vendors, consistent customer satisfaction across multiple product categories can be an important consideration during procurement.

Supporting AI-driven applications

The growing adoption of artificial intelligence is also increasing demand for faster and more scalable infrastructure.

AI-powered applications often process large amounts of data in real time, making network performance and low latency increasingly important.

Fastly says its edge platform helps organizations optimize AI workloads by combining content delivery, security, and observability capabilities within a unified infrastructure. While AI initiatives vary across industries, efficient edge computing can help improve responsiveness for AI-powered services delivered over the internet.

Although individual customer experiences may differ, recurring themes across multiple reviews indicate that technical support and platform flexibility remain among Fastly's most valued strengths.

Selecting a cloud infrastructure provider involves more than comparing technical specifications.

Organizations also evaluate operational reliability, vendor responsiveness, security capabilities, and long-term support. Independent customer reviews can provide additional perspective beyond product documentation and marketing materials.

For businesses investing in digital transformation, cloud-native applications, or AI services, infrastructure platforms that consistently receive positive customer feedback may reduce implementation risks and improve long-term operational confidence.

Fastly's recognition as a 2026 Gartner Peer Insights Customers' Choice for Edge Distribution Platforms reflects positive feedback from enterprise users across multiple industries.

With a 4.8-star rating and a 95% willingness-to-recommend score, the company continues to earn recognition for platform performance, customer support, and reliability. As organizations expand their cloud and AI initiatives, trusted edge infrastructure providers are likely to remain an important part of delivering secure, high-performing digital experiences.

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Jollibee Chickenjoy Named USA TODAY's Best Fried Chicken Again

Jollibee Chickenjoy Named USA TODAY's Best Fried Chicken Again

Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Jollibee Chickenjoy continues to strengthen its global reputation after being voted No. 1 Best Fast Food Fried Chicken in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for the third consecutive year.

The latest recognition places the Filipino restaurant chain ahead of numerous established fast-food competitors in the United States, one of the world's most competitive quick-service restaurant markets. The award was determined through public voting after a panel of experts selected the nominees, making it a reflection of consumer preference as well as industry recognition.

For Jollibee, the achievement is another sign that its signature fried chicken has found lasting appeal far beyond its home market.

Why Is This Recognition Significant?

Winning a consumer-voted award once can generate attention. Winning it three years in a row suggests consistent customer satisfaction.

The USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards recognize standout destinations, travel experiences, attractions, and food establishments across the United States. While experts curate the list of finalists, readers decide the winners through online voting.

For restaurant brands, repeat victories indicate sustained customer loyalty rather than short-term popularity.

Jollibee's latest win also reinforces the growing international recognition of Filipino food, which has gained greater visibility over the past decade as more Filipino-owned restaurants and global brands expand overseas.

What Makes Chickenjoy Stand Out?

Chickenjoy has long been the centerpiece of Jollibee's menu.

The fried chicken is known for its crispy golden coating and juicy meat, characteristics that have helped distinguish it in a crowded market dominated by established American fried chicken chains.

While taste remains subjective, many fans point to several qualities that define Chickenjoy:

• Crispy exterior with a well-seasoned coating
• Juicy chicken that retains moisture
• Signature gravy served alongside each order
• Consistent preparation across locations

Its combination of familiar comfort food and a distinctly Filipino dining experience has helped introduce the brand to both Filipino communities abroad and first-time customers.

Building a Global Presence Beyond the Philippines

Jollibee's success in North America reflects a broader international expansion strategy.

The company now operates around 100 stores across North America and more than 1,800 Jollibee restaurants worldwide, serving customers across multiple regions.

Rather than relying solely on overseas Filipino communities, Jollibee has increasingly attracted a broader customer base through social media exposure, food reviews, and positive word-of-mouth.

The brand's international recognition has also grown steadily over the years.

Previous accolades include:

• USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards – No. 1 Best Fast Food Fried Chicken (2024, 2025, and 2026)
• Eater.com – Best Fast-Food Fried Chicken (2022)
• Thrillist – Best Chain Fried Chicken in America (2021)

These recognitions have helped position Chickenjoy as a serious contender in the global fried chicken category.

Why Filipino Food Continues to Gain International Attention

Jollibee's latest recognition reflects a larger trend in global dining.

Over the last several years, Filipino cuisine has attracted increasing international interest as chefs, food writers, and restaurant operators introduce traditional flavors to wider audiences.

Classic dishes such as adobo, sisig, pancit, and halo-halo have become more familiar outside the Philippines, while brands like Jollibee have helped make Filipino comfort food more accessible.

This growing visibility benefits not only large restaurant chains but also independent Filipino-owned restaurants that continue to expand across North America, Europe, and other international markets.

What This Means for Consumers

For customers, the award offers another reason to try Chickenjoy or revisit the brand if they have not done so recently.

For Filipinos living overseas, it represents another milestone for a homegrown company competing successfully on a global stage.

Meanwhile, for the restaurant industry, the recognition demonstrates that international brands can build strong customer loyalty in mature markets by maintaining product consistency and delivering memorable dining experiences.

Jollibee Chickenjoy has once again earned the title of USA TODAY's No. 1 Best Fast Food Fried Chicken, marking its third consecutive victory in the publication's Readers' Choice Awards.

The achievement highlights the brand's sustained popularity among American diners while reinforcing Jollibee's growing presence as one of the world's most recognizable Filipino restaurant brands. As the company continues expanding internationally, Chickenjoy remains at the center of its success story, proving that a familiar favorite from the Philippines can compete with some of the biggest names in global fast food.

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EastWest Wins ABF Awards for Customer-Focused Banking

EastWest Wins ABF Awards for Customer-Focused Banking

Sunday, July 19, 2026

EastWest has been recognized with three major honors at the Asian Banking & Finance (ABF) Awards, reflecting the bank's efforts to improve customer experience, strengthen digital banking services, and expand investment opportunities for Filipinos.

The bank received Mid-Sized Retail Bank of the Year – Philippines and Analytics Initiative of the Year – Philippines for the second consecutive year during the Asian Banking and Finance Retail Banking Awards. It also earned its first IPO Deal of the Year – Philippines at the Asian Banking and Finance Corporate and Investment Banking Awards for its role in the landmark public offering of Maynilad Water Services.

The recognitions highlight how banks are increasingly using technology, customer insights, and advisory services to meet changing consumer expectations while helping more Filipinos participate in the country's growing financial markets.

The awards recognize three different aspects of EastWest's business: retail banking, analytics, and investment banking.

In retail banking, EastWest has focused on simplifying everyday banking through digital services while maintaining personalized support in its physical branches. This approach gives customers flexibility to complete routine transactions online while still having access to financial guidance when making larger financial decisions.

The bank's analytics initiative was recognized for using customer data to better understand financial behaviors and deliver more personalized recommendations. Rather than offering the same products to everyone, EastWest analyzes customer needs based on different life stages and financial goals, allowing relationship managers to recommend savings and investment options that better match individual circumstances.

Meanwhile, its investment banking recognition acknowledges EastWest's participation as a Domestic Participating Underwriter in the Maynilad Water Services initial public offering (IPO), one of the Philippines' largest public offerings in recent years.

How EastWest improving the banking experience

Modern banking is no longer limited to opening accounts or transferring funds. Customers increasingly expect faster digital services, easier account management, and personalized financial advice.

EastWest has introduced several improvements designed to reduce friction throughout the customer journey, including:

• Faster digital account opening
• Improved complaints handling
• More efficient dispute resolution
• Enhanced in-branch customer experience
• Better integration between digital and branch services

These initiatives contributed to an improvement in the bank's customer satisfaction indicators, including an eight-point increase in its Net Promoter Score (NPS), a widely used metric that measures customers' willingness to recommend a business to others.

In 2025, digital transactions accounted for 51% of all EastWest transactions, reflecting the continued shift toward online banking among Filipino consumers.

What is customer analytics in banking?

Customer analytics refers to the use of data to better understand how people manage their finances.

Banks analyze patterns such as saving habits, spending behavior, investment preferences, and liquidity needs. These insights help financial institutions provide recommendations that are more relevant instead of relying on generic product offerings.

For customers, this can result in:

• More personalized financial advice
• Investment recommendations aligned with financial goals
• Better timing for savings and lending products
• Improved overall banking experience

As digital banking adoption continues to rise, analytics has become an important tool for helping banks balance technology with personalized customer service.

EastWest's role in the Maynilad IPO

Beyond consumer banking, EastWest also contributed to one of the country's biggest capital market transactions.

The bank served as a Domestic Participating Underwriter for the Maynilad Water Services, Inc. initial public offering, completed in November 2025.

An Initial Public Offering (IPO) is the process through which a private company offers shares to the public for the first time. IPOs allow companies to raise capital while giving investors an opportunity to become shareholders.

Through its distribution network and client relationships, EastWest helped broaden participation among domestic and retail investors. A wider shareholder base can support healthier capital markets by encouraging greater public participation in long-term investments.

The funds raised through Maynilad's IPO are intended to strengthen the company's capital base and support future investments in water and wastewater infrastructure.

The Philippine banking industry continues to evolve as customers expect banking services to be faster, more accessible, and tailored to their financial needs.

Recognition from industry organizations such as Asian Banking & Finance suggests that institutions are increasingly being evaluated not only on financial performance but also on customer experience, digital transformation, and the ability to provide practical financial guidance.

For consumers, these developments may translate into:

• Easier access to banking services
• More personalized financial recommendations
• Improved digital banking experiences
• Greater opportunities to participate in investment products

As financial technology continues to reshape the industry, banks that successfully combine digital convenience with human expertise are likely to remain competitive in meeting customers' changing expectations.

EastWest's latest Asian Banking & Finance awards recognize its efforts to make banking more responsive to customer needs through digital improvements, data-driven insights, and stronger investment services. From streamlining everyday banking to helping expand access to one of the country's largest IPOs, the bank's initiatives reflect broader trends shaping the future of Philippine banking and financial inclusion.

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GCash Stories Spotlights Atty. Sheila Gomez's Inspiring Journey to Becoming a Lawyer

GCash Stories Spotlights Atty. Sheila Gomez's Inspiring Journey to Becoming a Lawyer

Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Dreams rarely follow a straight path. For many Filipinos, achieving a lifelong goal often means overcoming financial hurdles, making difficult decisions, and finding the courage to ask for help when it matters most.

That message is at the heart of the newest GCash Stories campaign featuring Atty. Sheila Gomez, whose inspiring journey from legal aide to lawyer shows how determination, responsible borrowing, and access to financial support can help turn aspirations into reality. Her story highlights how GLoan became one of the tools that allowed her to continue pursuing her legal education despite financial challenges.

A Story of Perseverance Behind Every Milestone

Becoming a lawyer wasn't simply about passing the Bar for Sheila Gomez. It represented years of balancing work, school, and personal sacrifices.

While employed full-time as a legal aide, she spent her days working and her nights studying, determined to earn a law degree despite the demanding schedule. Like many working students, however, tuition fees, examination expenses, and daily living costs gradually became increasingly difficult to manage.

Instead of putting her education on hold, Sheila chose to seek financial assistance through GLoan, allowing her to continue her studies without disrupting her long-term plans.

That decision eventually helped her stay focused on preparing for the Bar examinations, leading to one of the biggest milestones of her life: becoming a lawyer.

Today, she continues using other GCash financial services, including GCredit and GGives, as part of managing her financial journey.

The Latest Chapter of the GCash Stories Campaign

Sheila's journey is the sixth feature in this year's #GCashStories campaign, carrying the theme "Kasama Mo Mangarap."

More than showcasing customer success stories, the campaign highlights how digital financial services can become practical tools that help Filipinos overcome everyday challenges.

According to Neil Trinidad, Chief Marketing Officer of Mynt, the campaign continues to demonstrate that meaningful progress happens when people receive the right support at the right time.

He shared that GCash aims not only to provide financial products but also to empower Filipinos to pursue their goals and embrace second chances, adding that Sheila's experience reflects how financial inclusion can create lasting opportunities rather than simply offering temporary solutions.

GCash Stories Continue to Celebrate Everyday Filipinos

Over the past three years, GCash Stories has featured ordinary Filipinos whose lives changed through perseverance and access to digital financial services.

Among the inspiring individuals previously featured are:

Cocoy, who rebuilt his livelihood after losing his bartending job by starting a business with help from GLoan.

Alma, a university employee who rebuilt her home after Typhoon Ulysses through community support using GCash Send Money.

Turing, a drag performer who supported her family during the pandemic through digital tips received via GCash QR.

Adz, a para-athlete who raised funds for sports advocacy through GCash Send Money.

Rhea Inayan of Bacolod City, who expanded access to financial services in her community through her GCash Pera Outlet.

These stories collectively reflect how digital finance can support different life goals, from entrepreneurship and education to disaster recovery and community development.

Lourdes Batac, Head of Communication Strategy at GCash, said these real-life experiences continue to shape the company's own story by demonstrating how financial products can create meaningful impact in people's lives.

A Different Perspective on Responsible Borrowing

One of the strongest takeaways from Sheila's story is her perspective on borrowing.

During a fireside chat, she reflected that perseverance does not always mean facing every challenge alone.

"One of the biggest lessons I learned is that perseverance doesn't always mean doing everything on your own. Sometimes, it means having the courage to seek the right support."

She also acknowledged that loans are often viewed negatively by many Filipinos but believes responsible borrowing, when used with a clear purpose, can become an investment in one's future rather than a financial burden.

"It's unfortunate that many Filipinos see loans in a negative light, but when used responsibly and with a clear purpose, borrowing can be a powerful tool and a smart investment that moves you closer to your dreams. I'm grateful that GLoan gave me that opportunity."

How Fuse Financing Supports Responsible Lending

Behind GLoan is Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.

The company continues to advocate for fair, transparent, and accessible lending practices, particularly for Filipinos who may otherwise rely on informal or high-interest lenders.

Tony Isidro, President and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc., emphasized that responsible lending should help borrowers move forward while preserving their dignity.

According to him, the company's mission focuses on providing fast collateral-free loans, maintaining a secure borrowing experience, and ensuring that borrowers have access to financial support that can contribute to long-term progress.

Digital Financial Inclusion Continues to Open Opportunities

Atty. Sheila Gomez's story reflects a reality shared by many Filipinos who continue pursuing education, growing small businesses, supporting their families, or recovering from unexpected setbacks.

While every journey is different, access to responsible financial tools can provide the flexibility needed to keep moving forward.

As GCash continues expanding its financial services, campaigns like Kasama Mo Mangarap serve as reminders that progress often begins with resilience, informed financial decisions, and the willingness to embrace opportunities that bring people closer to their goals.

For those who want to learn more about Sheila's inspiring journey, her full GCash Stories feature is available online.

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EastWest Ageas Earns Great Place To Work Certification for Second Straight Year

EastWest Ageas Earns Great Place To Work Certification for Second Straight Year

Monday, July 13, 2026

A positive workplace culture has become more than just a workplace perk. For many professionals, it's one of the biggest factors when choosing where to build a career. Companies that prioritize employee well-being, flexibility, and professional growth are increasingly standing out, and EastWest Ageas is proving to be one of them.

The insurance company has once again been recognized as a Great Place To Work® Certified™ organization, marking its second consecutive year receiving the distinction. The recognition reflects strong employee satisfaction and highlights the company's ongoing commitment to creating a people-first workplace.

EastWest Ageas Receives Great Place To Work® Certification Again

For 2026, EastWest Ageas secured an 85% employee satisfaction score, based on feedback from both its head office employees and field sales personnel. The result is 20 percentage points higher than the average employer, demonstrating a consistently positive employee experience.

The Great Place To Work® Certification™ is awarded by Great Place To Work®, a global authority that evaluates organizations based on workplace culture, employee trust, leadership, and overall employee experience. The certification has become one of the most recognized benchmarks for organizations that prioritize creating supportive and engaging work environments.

A Workplace That Puts People First

Behind the recognition is a series of initiatives designed to help employees thrive both professionally and personally.

One of the company's key programs is WFH 2.0, a flexible work arrangement that requires employees to report to the office only twice a week. This setup gives team members more flexibility to balance their careers with family responsibilities and personal commitments while maintaining collaboration in the workplace.

EastWest Ageas also invests in continuous learning through training programs and professional development opportunities. Employees are encouraged to strengthen their skills, share fresh ideas, and take ownership of projects within their respective teams, helping create a culture where innovation and collaboration can flourish.

Employee Experience Reflected in the Numbers

The company's internal data also paints a positive picture of its workplace culture.

Among the highlights:

• 85% overall employee satisfaction score
• 94% of employees said they felt welcomed when they joined the company
• Time-to-fill hiring rate improved from 50% to 69% over the past year

These figures suggest that EastWest Ageas is not only retaining talent but is also becoming increasingly attractive to prospective employees.

Commenting on the achievement, Lois Dalida, Chief People and Culture Officer of EastWest Ageas, shared the company's appreciation for the recognition.

"We are humbled and grateful to receive the certification once more. At EastWest Ageas, we value fostering a workplace culture that ensures our people thrive both in their professional and personal lives. This milestone only pushes us to continue pursuing this purpose and explore more ways to live up to our status as a Great Place to Work."

For job seekers, workplace culture has become just as important as salary and benefits.

According to research from Great Place To Work®, professionals are 4.5 times more likely to find supportive managers at certified organizations. Employees also report being 93% more likely to look forward to going to work and are twice as likely to feel they are paid fairly, receive a share of company profits, and have equal opportunities for career advancement.

These findings reinforce why certifications like this have become valuable indicators for candidates looking for employers that genuinely invest in their people.

Career Opportunities at EastWest Ageas

Following its latest certification, EastWest Ageas continues to expand its workforce and is currently welcoming new talent across different roles.

For professionals looking for a company that values flexibility, continuous learning, and employee well-being, the insurer's latest recognition offers another reason to consider building a career with the organization.

As workplace expectations continue to evolve, companies that prioritize trust, growth, and employee experience are likely to remain attractive destinations for top talent. EastWest Ageas' second consecutive Great Place To Work® Certification suggests it is committed to sustaining that culture in the years ahead.

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Lenovo Earns Highest-Ever Gartner Supply Chain Ranking in 2026

Lenovo Earns Highest-Ever Gartner Supply Chain Ranking in 2026

Friday, July 10, 2026

Supply chains have become one of the biggest competitive advantages for global technology companies. As businesses navigate ongoing challenges such as geopolitical uncertainty, component shortages, and shifting market demands, companies that can adapt quickly are setting themselves apart. That's exactly what helped Lenovo Gartner Supply Chain Top 25 recognition reach a new milestone in 2026.

Lenovo has secured its highest-ever position in the Gartner® Supply Chain Top 25 for 2026, climbing to seventh place globally. The achievement highlights the company's continued investment in artificial intelligence, operational resilience, and global manufacturing, all while maintaining strong business performance across its expanding technology portfolio.

Lenovo Achieves Its Best Ranking Yet

The annual Gartner Supply Chain Top 25 is one of the industry's most respected benchmarks for supply chain excellence. Now in its 22nd year, the ranking recognizes organizations that demonstrate outstanding operational performance, innovation, and leadership in supply chain management.

Lenovo's steady climb over the past four years reflects its ongoing efforts to strengthen operations:

2026: #7 globally

2025: #8

2024: #10

2023: #8

The latest ranking marks the company's strongest performance to date, placing it among the world's leading supply chain organizations.

How AI Is Making Lenovo's Supply Chain Smarter

Behind Lenovo's improved ranking is its growing use of artificial intelligence to manage one of the world's largest technology supply chains.

Over the past year, the company enhanced its Supply Chain Intelligence platform by developing iChain, an AI-powered orchestration system that continuously learns while coordinating thousands of suppliers and more than 30 manufacturing sites worldwide.

According to Lenovo, iChain has significantly improved operational efficiency by delivering:

• 60% faster decision-making
• Near real-time response to supply chain disruptions
• 90% automation of network simulations
• Analysis times reduced from two to three weeks down to just two to three hours

These improvements allow the company to react more quickly to unexpected disruptions while maintaining product availability and operational efficiency.

Stronger Supply Chains Are Driving Business Growth

A resilient supply chain doesn't just improve logistics. It also creates measurable business results.

Lenovo retained its position as the world's leading PC manufacturer, while widening the gap over its closest competitor to its largest margin in 15 years.

The company has also expanded beyond traditional PC manufacturing by integrating its Infrastructure Solutions Group into its broader supply chain network. This has helped support record operating profit and stronger margins as demand grows for AI infrastructure, enterprise computing, and next-generation data center solutions.

As AI adoption accelerates globally, Lenovo is scaling its manufacturing capabilities to support:

• AI servers
• Liquid-cooled server technologies
• Enterprise infrastructure
• High-performance computing workloads
• A Global Manufacturing Network Built for Resilience

Lenovo's manufacturing strategy spans more than 30 production facilities across 10 markets in Asia Pacific, China, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, North America, and South America.

Among its newest investments is a manufacturing facility currently under development in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Once operational, the site will manufacture:

• Personal computers
• Smartphones
• Servers

The facility will also include a research and development center, customer experience center, and workforce training programs designed to support local talent development and long-term economic growth.

Meanwhile, Lenovo's Monterrey, Mexico manufacturing facility recently joined the World Economic Forum's Global Lighthouse Network, recognizing its use of advanced manufacturing technologies at scale. It becomes Lenovo's second facility to receive the distinction after its Hefei, China site earned the recognition in 2023.

The company also continues expanding operations in the United States through its manufacturing and fulfillment campus in Whitsett, North Carolina, which spans more than 800,000 square feet and supports server production, rack integration, and customer order fulfillment.

What Makes the Gartner Supply Chain Top 25 Significant?

The Gartner Supply Chain Top 25 evaluates companies using a combination of financial performance, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics, along with assessments from supply chain professionals and Gartner experts.

The rankings recognize organizations that successfully transform supply chains into strategic business assets by balancing operational excellence, innovation, sustainability, and long-term resilience.

For technology companies operating in increasingly complex global markets, earning a place in the Top 25 reflects more than efficient logistics. It demonstrates the ability to respond to uncertainty while continuing to deliver value to customers.

Speaking about the recognition, Che Min Tu, Senior Vice President and Group Operations Officer at Lenovo, highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in strengthening the company's operations.

"At Lenovo, we've always considered our Global Supply Chain as a key pillar of our operational excellence. Over the past 12 months, the ability to respond quickly to disruption has become essential for every business. By fully integrating AI into our operations, we've been able to meet our customer needs more quickly and respond to complex situations. We not only withstand disruption; we become stronger because of it. It's this approach that's helped Lenovo navigate changing market conditions, maintain a competitive advantage, and deliver its strongest year in the company's history."

Looking Ahead

Modern supply chains are no longer measured solely by speed or efficiency. They are increasingly defined by resilience, flexibility, and intelligent decision-making. Lenovo's highest-ever Gartner ranking reflects how investments in AI, advanced manufacturing, and a globally connected production network can help businesses navigate uncertainty while continuing to grow.

As demand for AI infrastructure and enterprise technologies continues to rise, Lenovo's evolving supply chain strategy positions the company to support future innovation while maintaining the operational agility needed in an increasingly complex global market.

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iCare Wins Two Insurance Asia Awards for AI Healthcare Innovation

iCare Wins Two Insurance Asia Awards for AI Healthcare Innovation

Thursday, July 9, 2026

From left: Tim Charlton, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Insurance Asia magazine, with iCare executives Dr. Mark Roland F. Malanay, Chief Operating Officer; Geronimo V. Francisco, President and CEO; Jinky B. Lanuza, Head of Network Management; Dr. Elze Grace C. Angelino, Deputy Medical Director; Welhelm Teodoro S. Castroverde, Chief Growth Officer for the General Broker Sales Channel; and Atty. Gideon V. Peña, Chief Commercial Officer.

 

As healthcare continues to evolve through technology and stronger industry collaboration, recognizing companies that make medical services more accessible has never been more important. This year, iCare HMO Philippines gained regional recognition after receiving two prestigious honors at the 2026 Insurance Asia Awards, highlighting its efforts to improve healthcare access through artificial intelligence and strategic healthcare partnerships.

The company's award-winning initiatives demonstrate how digital tools and collaborative care models are helping Filipinos connect with quality healthcare more quickly and conveniently.

iCare Receives Two Major Honors at the 2026 Insurance Asia Awards

At the 2026 Insurance Asia Awards, iCare HMO Philippines received two distinctions that recognize innovation in the insurance and healthcare sectors:

AI Initiative of the Year – Philippines for its Telemed7 platform

Strategic Partnership of the Year – Philippines for its Super Preferred Clinics (SPC) program

Presented annually by Insurance Asia, the awards celebrate insurers across the Asia-Pacific region that are driving meaningful improvements in customer experience, digital transformation, and industry innovation.

For iCare, the recognition reflects a long-term commitment to making healthcare more accessible by combining technology with a growing network of trusted healthcare providers.

Telemed7 Uses AI to Simplify Medical Consultations

One of the company's award-winning initiatives is Telemed7, an AI-enabled telemedicine platform designed to make healthcare consultations faster and more convenient.

Accessible through Viber, the platform automates appointment scheduling and connects members with licensed physicians in as little as seven minutes. By reducing administrative steps and waiting times, Telemed7 helps patients receive timely medical advice wherever they are.

As more healthcare providers embrace digital transformation, platforms like Telemed7 illustrate how artificial intelligence can streamline routine processes while improving the overall patient experience.

Commenting on the recognition, Geronimo V. Francisco, President and CEO of iCare HMO Philippines, emphasized that accessibility remains at the heart of the company's innovations.

"These awards recognize more than two successful initiatives. They affirm our belief that better healthcare begins with better access. Whether through AI-enabled telemedicine or strong partnerships with leading healthcare providers, our focus remains on helping more Filipinos say yes to better health."

Super Preferred Clinics Expand Access to Primary Healthcare

Alongside its digital healthcare initiatives, iCare was also recognized for strengthening access to in-person medical services through its Super Preferred Clinics (SPC) program.

Instead of operating its own clinics, iCare works with established healthcare providers, including The Medical City Clinics, Healthway QualiMed, and Hi-Precision Diagnostics, creating a nationwide network that currently includes 157 Super Preferred Clinics.

One of the program's key member benefits is that consultations at participating SPC facilities do not count against members' consultation benefit limits, making preventive and primary healthcare more accessible.

This partnership-driven approach allows iCare to leverage the expertise and geographic reach of respected healthcare institutions while focusing on delivering better member experiences.

Meeting the Growing Demand for Accessible Healthcare

Healthcare needs continue to evolve as employers, families, and individuals look for affordable, convenient, and preventive care options.

At the same time, organizations across the Philippines are balancing rising healthcare costs with increasing expectations for comprehensive employee health benefits. Digital healthcare platforms and collaborative provider networks have become valuable solutions for delivering quality care while helping manage medical expenses.

By investing in technology alongside strategic healthcare partnerships, iCare aims to address these changing demands while supporting better health outcomes for its members.

Innovation Continues to Shape the Future of Healthcare

Since becoming part of Singapore-based Value-Based Healthcare, iCare has expanded its investments in digital health services, provider partnerships, and customer experience initiatives.

The company's latest Insurance Asia Awards highlight a broader shift happening across the healthcare industry, where insurers are playing a more active role in improving healthcare delivery instead of simply financing medical care.

As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into everyday healthcare and collaborative care models continue to expand, innovations like Telemed7 and the Super Preferred Clinics program offer a glimpse into how healthcare may become more efficient, accessible, and patient-centered in the years ahead.

For Filipinos seeking healthcare solutions that combine convenience with quality care, these initiatives represent a growing focus on making healthcare easier to access when it matters most.

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