Bayad is now PCIDSS 4.0 certified, elevating payment security standards in the Philippines

Bayad is now PCIDSS 4.0 certified, elevating payment security standards in the Philippines

Wednesday, July 10, 2024

With the fast-growing fintech network in the Philippines, Bayad continues to trailblaze in the industry as an outsourced bills payment collection service provider, enabling a one-stop-shop payment solution for its consumers.

Formerly known as Bayad Center, the company has rebranded to Bayad, transforming into a digital first institution which offers a full-range of services made available for consumers and enterprise. From its own brick-and-mortar business model, Bayad has expanded its payment ecosystem by connecting a multitude of billers with leading establishments and e-money players in the country.

Today, Bayad stands as a fintech subsidiary of Meralco, the largest electric distribution utility company in the Philippines.

As Bayad enhances it backend and frontend solutions, it also intensifies its cybersecurity measures, where trust and convenience remain at the core of its consumer protection standards. 

In line with these efforts, Bayad has successfully obtained its Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard 4.0 (PCIDSS 4.0).

The said security standard certification was thoroughly assessed by SISA, a forensics-driven cybersecurity company specializing in risk assessment, security compliance & validation, monitoring & threat hunting, as well as training for various payment security certifications.

SISA’s assessment has proven Bayad’s capability to provide reliable fintech solutions, having effectively deployed multi-factor authentication, key management system, data at rest encryption, secure wipe solutions, and web application firewall that are critical features in passing for the said data security standard certification.

Bayad Deputy Chief Information Security Officer Rolly N. Bañez shared, “Bayad’s PCIDSS 4.0 certification attests our commitment in harnessing technologies that will foster security, efficiency, and scalability in digital payments. The robust cybersecurity measures we implement enables us to confidently innovate and co-create projects with various stakeholders centered on our goal of maintaining a frictionless customer experience.”

Bayad Chief Information Security Officer Rocky D. Bacani added “Bayad’s PCIDSS 4.0 certification is a critical milestone in our continuous fight against cyber threats. Consequently, cybercrime remains one of the foremost risks confronting businesses and communities. At Bayad, we recognize the role that cybersecurity plays in protecting our consumers and our business counterparts.”

Bayad President and CEO Lawrence Y. Ferrer also underscored “Ultimately, efficiency, and innovation are the bedrock of Bayad’s cybersecurity initiatives. We value the way people do payments and also help institutions to thrive and expand, with a robust system that enables reliable, seamless and real-time transactions.”

For fintech institutions that are interested to be part of Bayad’s extensive bills payment network, you may send an email to partnerships@bayad.com. Bayad enables partners to attain nationwide presence and provides end-to-end support services for efficient and secured payment collection processing.

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VFS Global inaugurates Joint Schengen Visa Application Centre in Manila, serving 10 countries

VFS Global inaugurates Joint Schengen Visa Application Centre in Manila, serving 10 countries

To offer an enhanced visa application submission experience to Schengen visa applicants in Manila, Philippines, VFS Global, the world's largest visa outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions worldwide, inaugurated the newly relocated state-of-the-art Joint Visa Application Centre in Manila providing visa services to 10 countries - Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Switzerland, and The Netherlands.

The official inauguration was done by:

• H.E. Juha Pyykkö - Ambassador of Finland to the Philippines
• Michael Kutzner - Head of Visa Section, Federal Republic of the German Embassy in Manila
• H.E. Dr. Titanilla Tóth - Ambassador of Hungary to the Philippines
• Nicole Clivaz - Head of Consular Affairs, Embassy of Switzerland
• Fabio Pompetti - Consul and Deputy Head of Mission of the Kingdom of Belgium
• Julia Netta Vildžius Pena - Honorary Consul of Lithuania to the Philippines
• H.E. Mr. Karel Hejč - Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Czech Republic to the Republic of the Philippines
• Romano Gualtieri – Attaché
• Pieter C.M. de Wit - Consul of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the Philippines
• Ioannis Pediotis - Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic in the Philippines

Mr. Kaushik Ghosh, Head - Australasia, VFS Global, said, “We are excited to bring an enhanced experience for our Schengen visa applicants in and around Manila through this newly relocated state-of-the-art Visa Application Centre. Applying for a visa is one of the first steps to international travel, and we look forward to making it smooth and convenient for our travellers.”

Applicants who wish to submit their visa applications for the above listed Schengen countries, will have to first book an appointment online to submit their applications. 

The discerning set of visa applicants can choose from a range of optional and additional services to enhance their overall visa application submission experience. The Visa At Your Doorstep service allows visa applicants to submit their applications from the comfort of their home or office, our Premium Lounge service offers a personalised and comfortable environment at our centres for submitting applications, while our Prime Time service allows the flexibility of submission and passport collection beyond normal working hours. Other additional services include Form-filling Assistance, SMS Alerts, Courier Service, and Personal Assistance service, among others. 

It is important to note that these optional services are available for select countries and opting for these additional services does not have any bearing on the timeline or decision on visa applications.

VFS Global’s role in the visa application process is limited to front-end administrative tasks only, which include collecting visa application forms and required documentation as per the checklist, and enrolling biometrics, if applicable. VFS Global has no role in the decision-making process of granting or refusing a visa. Decision making on granting or refusal of visa is the sole prerogative of the concerned embassy / consulate.

#DoNotFallForFraud

Visa applicants are advised to beware of fraudulent entities who charge fees from customers for scheduling appointments or providing any other services using VFS Global’s name or independently. VFS Global does not charge any fee for booking appointments on www.vfsglobal.com which is the official website catering to visa applications. However, some governments require pre-payment of the service fee at the time of booking the appointment. This payment will be reimbursed or deducted during the application process. This step is only to ensure genuine travellers use appointment booking and the system is kept safe from misuse by fraudulent entities. For any assistance, feel free to reach out to one of our staff and to report any instances of fraud, visit https://secure.ethicspoint.eu/domain/media/en/gui/108559/index.html.

Optional value-added services for a seamless visa experience:

Visa At Your Doorstep: Apply for your visa and enrol biometrics from the location of your choice.

Premium Lounge: Get an end-to-end personalised visa submission experience from the comfort of a lounge.

Prime Time: Apply for your visa beyond normal working hours or even on weekends.

Form-filling assistance: Allow our expert staff to assist you in completing your visa application on phone or at a visa application centre

Courier Service: We deliver your passport and documents. It’s quick, safe, and convenient. 

Travel Medical Insurance: Get your mandatory Travel Medical Insurance including Covid-19 coverage from global insurers.

SMS Alerts: Stay updated on the progress of your visa application.

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JCI Manila-Ignacio B. Gimenez Awards honors outstanding cops

JCI Manila-Ignacio B. Gimenez Awards honors outstanding cops

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

JCI Manila, a distinguished leadership development organization in Asia, recently hosted the 5th Ignacio B. Gimenez PNP Awards to recognize exceptional police officers within Metro Manila. These dedicated men and women in uniform showcased remarkable expertise across various fields, including crime prevention, disaster response, and community outreach. 

Nominated by their peers, superiors, and community members, the awardees embody patriotism, integrity, courage, and social responsibility—values closely aligned with those upheld by JCI Manila and the Ignacio B. Gimenez Foundation. 

“Please continue making our country proud, and become the shoulders that future generations of policemen and women look up to and stand on. Your decisions and actions today onwards will hold a stronger meaning as you are now the recipient of the award, more eyes will be on you, people will start looking at you and thinking, ganito pala ang pagiging isang awardee ng Ignacio Gimenez. Your story will forever be in our award history, and I hope you use this platform to effect bigger and better positive change,” said JCI Manila President Charles Matthew “Calel” Gosingtian.

The annual event serves as a platform to celebrate the police’s unwavering commitment to public safety and tireless efforts to protect and serve the community. Through exemplary service, they have become role models and an inspiration to the next generation of law enforcement professionals.

The Ignacio B. Gimenez Awards underscores the importance of recognizing and appreciating law enforcement officers who go above and beyond their call of duty. By honoring their contributions, JCI Manila aims to foster a culture of excellence and encourage others to follow in their footsteps.

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Pru Life UK hosts nationwide events for aspiring financial advisors

Pru Life UK hosts nationwide events for aspiring financial advisors

Join Pru Life UK's Build Your Business Sessions this July!

In a bid to nurture entrepreneurial talent and drive financial security across the country, leading life insurer Pru Life UK is set to continue its series of Build Your Business (BYB) sessions throughout July. 

Held both in-person and virtually nationwide, these sessions offer budding entrepreneurs valuable insights into building a sustainable and financially stable business in the life insurance industry. 

By holding these sessions, Pru Life UK aims to expand its 38,000-strong agency force, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of securing the lives of more Filipino families. 

Expanding Nationwide Presence

Pru Life UK will host BYB sessions in strategic locations across the country, providing more Filipinos with the opportunity to explore a rewarding career in financial advisory.

This July, BYB sessions will be held in Metro Manila (Makati, Ortigas, QC), South (Alabang, Laguna), North (Baguio, Cavite, Pangasinan), and VisMin (Cebu, Davao). Additionally, virtual sessions are accessible and open to all.

Participants will learn from experienced financial advisors who will share their knowledge and success stories, providing a roadmap for empowered newcomers to follow. The initiative highlights Pru Life UK's commitment to empowering individuals to achieve their professional aspirations while making a positive impact on their communities.

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51% of women-led SMEs surveyed in the Philippines experience increased revenue after accepting digital payments

51% of women-led SMEs surveyed in the Philippines experience increased revenue after accepting digital payments

Monday, July 8, 2024

Visa, a global leader in digital payments, conducted a survey on small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in the Philippines. Findings show that 51% of women-led SMEs and 56% of micro-businesses experienced revenue growth with digital payments adoption. Given women constitute over half of Asia's population and SMEs' vital role in the economy, maximizing women's economic potential could add $89 billion annually to the Asia Pacific economy including in the Philippines. 

SMEs are crucial for economic growth in the Philippines, with more than a million Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the country. The Philippines’ Department of Trade and Industry data show that 99.5% of businesses in the country are MSMEs with almost 50% of them in wholesale and retail trade, generating 65% of total employment. Furthermore, the Asian Development Bank estimated that MSMEs contribute around 36% of the country’s GDP[1].

The Visa study found that managing businesses has become easier for 72% of the surveyed SMEs in the Philippines. Wallets, predominantly GCash, dominate as the main provider of digital payment for SMEs, especially those that are female-led (61%) who were surveyed in the Philippines. Visa has partnered with GCash to introduce the new GCash Card – giving millions of unbanked Filipinos access to the benefits of owning a payment card. 

Among the businesses that have started accepting digital payments, those accepting cards witnessed the most significant turnover increases (83%). Digital payments provide instant transfers and enable cashless transactions for an enhanced commerce experience. Visa supports SMEs in the Philippines by offering widespread acceptance and robust protection for both merchants and customers, guarding against fraudulent activities.

Guaya Melgar, CEO and Co-Founder of Mochi, a billing and collections platform, said: “My business has grown since I introduced digital payment methods. I appreciate the convenience, speed, and the ability to easily track payment records. It provides my customers with a convenient cashless payment option too. I hope to expand my business beyond the Philippines so enabling cross-border payments will help me grow my customer base.”

"Small and medium-sized businesses are the driving force behind the thriving economy in the Philippines. Visa is proud to contribute to their growth by providing secure and convenient digital payment solutions,” said Jeff Navarro, Visa’s Country Manager for the Philippines. “Visa is committed to continuously supporting the Philippine government’s financial inclusion and digitization goals, including empowering SMEs, the cornerstone of the economy, by introducing innovative financial and payment solutions so they can build on this foundation to grow their business.” 

Visa recently launched a SME online toolkit to enable tourism merchants to maximize the benefits of contactless payments. In 2023, Visa launched the SME Accelerator Program in the Philippines to support SMEs and partners through competitive pricing, faster onboarding, and comprehensive take-to-market support. The expanded SME Accelerator initiatives will also focus on a wider set of partnerships with ecosystem participants to serve smaller sellers and fast-track solutions deployment for SMEs. 

The Visa Foundation has also pledged $100 million over five years to accelerate access for underrepresented and women-led SMEs in APEC economies, including in the Philippines. Of the nearly 67 million SMEs reached by Visa globally, approximately 29.6 million are from APEC economies, with 10.9 million being women-led SMEs. 

[1] https://data.adb.org/media/11896/download

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Your Haven With an Investment Edge: RLC Residences unveils the last tower of Le Pont Residences

Your Haven With an Investment Edge: RLC Residences unveils the last tower of Le Pont Residences

Le Pont Residences continues to bridge Filipinos to their best life

Le Pont Residences, which translates to “The Bridge,” has linked Filipinos to their best life at the 31-hectare master-planned Bridgetowne Destination Estate (BDE). RLC Residences’ premium high-rise property launched its first tower in 2023 and is now introducing its second. 

Le Pont Residences’ first tower is now 85% sold, one of the fastest-selling residential developments in the area. Aspiring homeowners can still have their slice of heaven with the remaining units or invest in the new tower. Le Pont Residences’ second tower will keep the sophisticated charm of its first tower, along with new features to look forward to.

“Le Pont Residences is both a haven and an investment opportunity. It’s only been 1 year and 6 months since we first introduced the first tower, but it already appreciated by 8% in net value, with units currently valued at Php 310K/sqm compared to the initial launch price of Php 286K/sqm. We are proud of this performance, which is much higher than the government 10-year tenor of 6.5%," reveals John Richard Sotelo, RLC Residences’ Senior Vice President and Business Unit General Manager and Robinsons Land Chief Marketing Officer.

The new tower features an enhanced selection of units, including bi-level penthouse units (±390 sqm) featuring an iconic curved staircase that serves as the home’s beautiful centerpiece. Tower 2 also features one (±46 sqm) - to four-bedroom (±220 sqm) homes, including an executive one-bedroom unit at ±63 sqm. All units come with loggia and thoughtful deliverables such as an engineered wood finish across the home and appliances like an air conditioner, refrigerator, cooktop, and washer and dryer, with additional dishwasher for Penthouse Units. Units also have smart home features such as A/V intercom, smart door lock, and smart switch, as well as multiple ethernet hubs and mesh devices.

Moreover, Tower 2 will access the same host of amenities offered at Tower 1, including the podium, clubhouse, work lounge, fitness deck, meeting room, pet park, swimming pools, and the tower’s own Altitude 51 - home to party units, sky lounge, and grilling area perfect for private gatherings. Furthermore, residents of Tower 2 can enjoy a new game simulation room. 

Haven with an investment edge

Le Pont Residences has proven its future readiness distinction as it is the first and only EDGE-certified building in Bridgetowne Destination Estate. EDGE or Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies, is a green building standard and certification system by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) that evaluates various developments across the globe. 

Moreover, the existing and upcoming developments at Bridgetowne Destination Estate will drive Le Pont Residences’ value. The destination estate is an emerging business district and lifestyle hub home to a collection of sustainable office buildings, green spaces, retail, and other full-scale commercial establishments.

Internationally certified office buildings like GBF, Campus One, Tera, Exxa, Zeta, and Giga Towers give homeowners at Le Pont Residences easy access to their workplaces. Tera Tower is certified by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), while Zeta Tower is built with sustainable green building features for energy savings and an enhanced work environment.

Bridgetowne will also soon be home to premium shopping centers like Opus Mall. The luxury commercial space will have five floors of local and international brands in a world-class interior design concept.

Lastly, Fili will be the first authentic 5-star Filipino hotel. The property will combine the finest hotel offerings with modern Filipino elements, including locally crafted finishings, breathtaking skyline views, and a unique gastronomic experience. 

Towering over the entire destination estate is The Victor. The 60-meter-high statue, designed by Jefrё Manuel-Figueras, is one of the world’s tallest art installations and pays homage to the resilience and unwavering determination that resides within every Filipino.

Aspiring residents can find these and more at Bridgetowne. The destination estate sits in a prime location connecting Quezon City and Pasig. Homeowners can access the rest of Metro Manila via three major thoroughfares—C5 Road, Ortigas Avenue, and Amang Rodriguez Avenue.

“We are proud of how Le Pont Residences is designed to be a one-of-a-kind residential development in Bridgetowne Destination Estate. This project is also an epitome of our Raise, Live, Connect philosophy - which is providing our residents with beautiful, well-designed homes that elevate their lifestyle, while at the same time presenting an excellent investment opportunity,” says Karen Cesario, RLC Residences’ Marketing Head and Chief Integration Officer.

Interested investors and homeseekers looking for a haven with an investment edge may connect with a Property Specialist through rlcresidences.com.

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Coca-Cola PH continues to empower micro-retailers with the launch of new centers to provide entrepreneurial skills

Coca-Cola PH continues to empower micro-retailers with the launch of new centers to provide entrepreneurial skills

Coca-Cola Philippines aims to empower more micro-entrepreneurs nationwide with the launch of Centers for Entrepreneurship (CFEs) under the digital Sari-Sari Store Training and Access to Resources(iSTAR) program in seven key areas. The CFEs, located in Davao del Norte, Cagayan de Oro, Taguig City, Nueva Ecija, Cebu, Bacolod City, and Camarines Sur, will serve as sustainable hubs offering training, mentoring, and financial support to help small business owners thrive.

The iSTAR program is designed to empower individuals in entrepreneurship and equip them with the necessary skills through the use of digital platforms for starting and managing retail businesses.

"At Coca-Cola Philippines, we are committed to supporting the entrepreneurial spirit and unlocking the potential of aspiring entrepreneurs. The launch of the iSTAR Centers for Entrepreneurship is a testament to our dedication to foster economic growth and sustainable development at the community level," said Coca-Cola Philippines President Tony del Rosario during the launch of the CFE in Tagum, Davao del Norte.

The program is the result of a public-private partnership between the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Coca-Cola Philippines. This collaboration supports Coca-Cola Philippines’ broader economic empowerment strategy to break the cycle of generational poverty. 

For more than a decade, this partnership has expanded with seven regional microfinance and non-governmental institutions across the country, making iSTAR’s modules free and accessible nationwide through the TESDA Online Program.

iSTAR aims to address key barriers that hinder the development of women entrepreneurs, such as limited access to training, resources, and mentorship. Through its expanded digital platform, iSTAR has empowered over 150,000 micro-entrepreneurs, surpassing its 2025 target of 100,000 graduates. Earlier this year, the program was showcased at the 68th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) at the UN Headquarters in New York.

"These CFEs represent hope, opportunity, and the collective effort of our partners like TESDA and the Tagum City Council of Women Foundation Inc., whose dedication is instrumental in making this initiative a reality. Together, with a shared vision of economic empowerment, we can bridge existing gaps and create a truly inclusive environment where micro-entrepreneurship can thrive,” added del Rosario.

TESDA also acknowledges how the iSTAR program helps bridge the digital divide among micro and small businesses. "The Philippines is lagging behind in digitalization, but with Coca-Cola Philippines introducing this digital platform to educate and empower women, we are heading in the right direction," said TESDA Deputy Director General for Special Concerns Felizardo Colambo.

Building a network of sustainable support

The CFEs represent a strategic expansion of the iSTAR Program by establishing regional hubs that aim to provide business development, training, and support to micro-entrepreneurs.

The hubs will be managed by a network of trusted partners, including microfinance institutions, cooperatives, civil society organizations, and the local government units of the hubs’ locations. This initiative reinforces Coca-Cola Philippines' commitment to building the capacity of Filipinos in entrepreneurship and empowering them through the strategic use of digital platforms and the fostering of business networks.

"When the CFE was offered to us at the Tagum City Council of Women Foundation (TCCWFI), we accepted it with open arms, without hesitation. We immediately saw the need for it, not just in our area, but throughout Mindanao. We are grateful to the City Government of Tagum and Coca-Cola Philippines for bringing this initiative to our city,” said TCCWFI President Alma Uy.

Scaling impact with technology

The iSTAR Program and CFEs are among Coca-Cola Philippines’ projects that seek to leverage technology to amplify the reach and impact of its support for micro-retailers. It’s similar to the Tindahan Extra Mile (TEM): Balik PET Bottle program, which utilizes innovative methods to promote the circularity of plastic packaging.

TEM, in collaboration with the Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies, Inc. (BEST) and the Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners (PASCO), aims to support micro-retailers as frontline environmental advocates by helping transform their sari-sari stores and carinderias into collection points for recyclable PET bottles. With increased visibility and proximity to these drop-off bins, consumers are encouraged to dispose of their plastic bottles. Micro-retailers earn environmental points for collecting bottles, which can be redeemed for cashback and products, thereby strengthening their businesses.

Graduates of the iSTAR program are provided support to join Coca-Cola Philippines’ network of TEM partners so they can continue to grow their businesses and inspire their communities to keep their surroundings clean.

Learn more about Coca-Cola Philippines’ community initiatives by visiting the Coca-Cola Philippines Sustainability Hub.

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