Trend Micro Platform Exceeds 10K Large Enterprise Customers, Extends Proven Solution to SMEs

Trend Micro Platform Exceeds 10K Large Enterprise Customers, Extends Proven Solution to SMEs

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

AI-powered platform with built-in risk management bridges cybersecurity talent shortage, supports vendor consolidation

Global cybersecurity leader Trend Micro Incorporated (TYO: 4704; TSE: 4704)has achieved new growth and availability milestones for its cybersecurity platform. Trend Vision One™ now serves over 10,000 enterprise customers worldwide and has also been extended to help small- and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs) better manage their cyber risk. Enhanced with new management and operational tools designed specifically for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), the platform simplifies risk management for enterprises while also allowing MSPs to gain operational efficiencies, expand their services and monetize the market opportunity.

“SMEs are often the most attractive targets for cybercriminals,” said James Rocker, CEO at IT service provider Nerds That Care. “By identifying and addressing vulnerabilities before they can be exploited, Trend Micro helps level the playing field for organizations that don’t staff large security teams. Our team is looking forward to this next evolution in Trend Micro's offering for managed services providers and customers."

Unlike other cybersecurity vendors stitching together disconnected capabilities, Trend Micro’s AI-powered cybersecurity platform goes beyond single solutions to more efficiently manage the full cyber risk lifecycle. Risk management is powered by AI to improve managing asset profiles, predicting attack paths and enabling custom remediation guidance. This means a single security tool can enable teams of all sizes to assess and prioritize risk in real time and take action to build enterprise resilience.

Ian Felipe , Country Manager at Trend Micro Philippines: “This is a major growth period for SMEs in the Philippines, and it’s important to build on secure foundations. According to the Department of Trade and Industry’s MSME Statistics, 99.59% of businesses established in the Philippines are MSMEs. This indicates that this sector plays a crucial role in shaping our economy. We see a critical need to address growing attack surface risk while enterprises are facing a significant lack of cybersecurity talent—that’s a valuable opportunity for the channel. Our expanded platform offering empowers MSPs to seamlessly deliver enterprise-grade cyber risk management to SMEs, enhancing customer business resilience and confidence while increasing the market opportunity for our partners.”

Managing cyber risk is one of the most difficult challenges that SMEs face as threats continue to evolve and multiply, with many lacking sufficient staffing to meet security needs. According to industry association CompTIA, 35% of small and 27% of medium-sized US businesses are assessing risk, but without a formal framework for doing so. A further 15% and 9% respectively are still only at the discussion stage regarding risk management.

Trend Vision One™ for Managed Service Providers offers partners a broad range of proven, enterprise-grade capabilities from a single platform with the integrations they require to efficiently manage their operations. In an industry first, MSPs can now deliver comprehensive, precise and continuous cyber risk management for their customers in a multi-tenant platform, leveraging broad security capabilities for endpoint, email, network, identity, and cloud combined with powerful built-in modules like XDR and Attack Surface Risk Management (ASRM).

To learn more about Trend Vision One™ and powerful capabilities like Attack Surface Risk Management, visit here.

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USANA Achieves HR Asia’s “Best Companies to Work For” Title for Three Consecutive Years

USANA Achieves HR Asia’s “Best Companies to Work For” Title for Three Consecutive Years

USANA Philippines has once again been honored with the prestigious HR Asia Award for being one of the Best Companies to Work For in the Philippines. This marks the third consecutive year the company has received this esteemed recognition, underscoring its commitment to creating a positive and dynamic work environment.

The HR Asia Best Companies to Work for in Asia Philippines 2024 is an annual award given by HR Asia, a leading publication in the human resources industry. The award recognizes companies with the best HR practices, high levels of employee engagement, and excellent workplace culture.

The awards night, attended by industry leaders, employees, and partners, celebrated USANA’s dedication to its workforce and celebrated the company’s ongoing efforts to cultivate a positive and inclusive workplace culture.

“We are incredibly honored to receive this recognition for the third year in a row,” said Cherry Ampig, General Manager of USANA Philippines. “This award reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who contribute every day to making USANA an exceptional place to work. It’s a proud moment for all of us.”

USANA Health Sciences, Inc., a leader in global nutrition and the parent company of USANA Philippines, has also relayed its appreciation to the Philippine market for this achievement while emphasizing the significance of the company’s core values in winning the award.

“Being recognized for the third time as one of the Best Companies to Work For in the Philippines is a remarkable achievement for us,” said David Mulham, USANA’s chief sales officer. “It is a testament to the hard work and passion of our Philippine team, and we are incredibly proud of this accomplishment.”

USANA Philippines, also known as UHS Essential Philippines, Inc., was launched locally in 2009 and is the only USANA subsidiary that operates three offices outside the United States, specifically in Makati, Davao, and Cebu.

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Bayad cybersecurity lead awarded as Cybersecurity Practitioner of the Year in the 2024 World Financial Innovation Series

Bayad cybersecurity lead awarded as Cybersecurity Practitioner of the Year in the 2024 World Financial Innovation Series

Rolly “RB” N. Bañez, Bayad Deputy Chief Information Security Officer and Head of Cyber Security Governance has been recognized with Cybersecurity Practitioner of the Year Award in the recently concluded 2024 World Financial Innovation Series.

Organized by Tradepass, a renowned international business networking platform, the World Financial Innovation Series was held on August 13-14, 2024 at the Marriott Hotel, bringing together over 600 tech and business experts from leading banks, insurance, and micro-finance institutions across the country.

Bañez’ Cybersecurity Practitioner of the Year Award highlights his exceptional leadership in establishing robust and advanced cybersecurity framework in his organization – Bayad (previously Bayad Center), while amplifying a culture of cybersecurity awareness in the fintech industry.

Bayad is the pioneer brand in the outsourced bills payment collection service in the Philippines, aggregating a multitude of billers into a robust system that is now being used by leading establishments and electronic money institutions across the country. 

Bañez shared “With the increasing sophistication in the fintech landscape, it was essential for us at Bayad to implement advanced cybersecurity measures, ensuring that everyone has access to reliable financial services.

I am both honored and humbled to receive the Cybersecurity Practitioner of the Year Award. This recognition is genuinely a testament to Bayad’s unwavering commitment and collective effort in establishing digital trust as we help spur the country’s digital transformation journey.”

Bayad President and CEO Lawrence Y. Ferrer added. “Through RB Bañez’ dedication and leadership in cybersecurity, Bayad has intensified our digitalization efforts. The Cybersecurity Practitioner of the Year Award inspires us to further implement solutions that will elevate the financial experience in Philippines, ensuring that each and every transaction coursed through Bayad is reliable and secured.”

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Visa collaborates with Good Transport and GHL to enable contactless payments in Cebu and Mandaue City modern jeepneys in first transit project in the Philippines

Visa collaborates with Good Transport and GHL to enable contactless payments in Cebu and Mandaue City modern jeepneys in first transit project in the Philippines

Visa cards can be used to pay on modern jeepneys in Cebu and Mandaue City, creating a seamless transit experience and inclusive acceptance for daily commuters and tourists in the Philippines

Visa, a world leader in digital payments, is collaborating with Good Transport Solutions Inc. (GTSI), a transit mobility solutions provider, and GHL, a leading nationwide payment service provider and payment acquirer. This collaboration has enabled the use of Visa cards for payments on modern jeepneys in Cebu and Mandaue City, the second biggest city in Cebu. 

The initiative kicked off today with an official launch ceremony at the Cebu IT Park Transport Terminal, with Good Transport Solutions Inc. (GTSI) working in partnership with local transport operators, Lahug Apas Transport Cooperative (LATRANSCO) and Mandaue Transport Cooperative (MTC), to launch 120 modern jeepneys in Cebu and 20 modern jeepneys in Mandaue City. The onboard terminals in these vehicles now accept Visa payments. This initiative, part of a pilot project, signifies Visa's commitment to promoting transit acceptance in the Philippines with plans to expand to more modes of transit in coming years.

Jeff Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines, said: "We are thrilled to unveil Visa's inaugural transit project in the Philippines. This initiative aims to enhance the travel experience for daily commuters and tourists in Mandaue City by offering a wider array of payment options. As tourism in the Philippines rebounds, we have observed a growth in inbound tourism and this partnership will make the transit experience more seamless for tourists. The future of transit, both globally and within the Philippines, is poised to create inclusivity through open-loop, contactless payment systems in public transit, and will be centered around providing commuters with seamless, convenient, and secure payment options.”

In February 2024, Cebu experienced a 69% year-on-year increase in visitors, welcoming 104,439 tourists, according to the Department of Tourism. Meanwhile, Mandaue City, a popular tourist destination in Cebu, recorded 228,472 tourist arrivals between January and September 2022. With such strong tourism growth, the ability to use Visa cards on public transit significantly enhances convenience, as travelers increasingly prefer secure, contactless digital payments. Visa's Global Travel Intentions Study highlights this shift, revealing that 97% of Asia Pacific travelers plan to use card payments (credit, debit, or prepaid) on their trips, while only 17% intend to carry foreign currency (cash).

Brezhnev Tero, CEO, Good Transport Solutions Inc. (GTSI), said: “We are proud to partner with Visa and GHL to bring the first-of-its-kind contactless payment solution to the Philippines’ transport sector through our Transport Mobility Solution, the Bus Revenue Tracker System (BRTS). This groundbreaking collaboration not only revolutionizes fare collection with enhanced efficiency and security but also redefines the commuter experience. By leading the way in transport innovation, we are making every journey smoother, faster, and more convenient, setting a new standard for public transport in the country.” 

Jay Tirona, CEO, GHL Systems Philippines Inc, said: “This partnership is an exciting example of how technology and digital innovation in payments can come together positively for the private and public sectors, and ultimately, for the benefit of Filipinos who ride these jeepneys every day. These efficiencies drive social and economic change and we need to start with a focused approach, which I believe will eventually and inevitably be adapted across public transport systems nationwide.”

Faster and more seamless travel through a cashless, open-loop system

The rapid urbanization across Asia Pacific, with 120,000 people moving to cities daily, has underscored the need for efficient public transit systems. Governments, including the Philippines, are investing in these systems as part of their strategies to mitigate road congestion, with a focus on simplifying public transit payments and increasing digital payment options. 

Visa’s Global Urban Mobility survey found that 58% of commuters favor a unified payment method for all transport modes, as currently half of them use four or more different methods each month. Meanwhile, another Visa survey showed that implementing open-loop, contactless payment systems in public transit agencies creates a faster, safer, and more hygienic payment experience. Such a system promotes inclusivity and accessibility in public transit, even for those without access to traditional banking services, with modern payment systems simplifying fare processes for transit agencies, reducing costs and mitigating financial risks. 

“With Visa making access to payments more inclusive, we are glad to be moving the needle in embracing innovative systems such as the open-loop payment system which significantly enhances the commuting experience for all,” Navarro added. “This approach not only makes urban mobility more efficient and secure but ensures that everyone, especially those underserved by traditional banking services, has access to seamless and reliable public transportation.” 

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Regional insurtech Igloo on how insurers can attract Gen Z and boost insurance penetration in the Philippines, Southeast Asia

Regional insurtech Igloo on how insurers can attract Gen Z and boost insurance penetration in the Philippines, Southeast Asia

Monday, August 26, 2024

In Southeast Asia, insurers are grappling with the challenge of attracting Gen Z—a generation known for its financial savvy and strong desire for financial security. However, despite these traits, traditional insurance products often fail to resonate with them due to their perceived complexity and a general distrust of conventional financial institutions. This disconnect is particularly evident in the Philippines, where despite a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.5% which will see the country’s insurance industry’s value grow to P 209 billion in 2028, actual insurance penetration remains low at 1.6%.

This shows how the industry must address the concerns of Gen Z, a demographic that McKinsey predicts will comprise a quarter of the Asia Pacific’s population by 2025, including around 40 million Filipinos (34.7% of the Philippine population).

Many Gen Z individuals feel that insurance is unnecessary at their age, preferring to focus on immediate experiences rather than long-term financial products. A study by EY found that nearly 40% of Gen Z are worried about making the wrong choices with their money. Further compounding the issue, a survey by Accenture revealed that 52% of Gen Z in Southeast Asia do not trust traditional insurers, fearing hidden clauses and high premiums.

To bridge this gap, insurers must adopt innovative strategies that resonate with Gen Z's preferences. Regional award-winning insurtech Igloo emphasizes that this approach is vital for boosting insurance penetration in Southeast Asia. Here are some tips for effectively engaging this unique demographic:

Make insurance simple and affordable

Insurance products are often seen as complex and confusing, which can turn off younger consumers. To counter this, insurers should focus on offering straightforward policies with clear terms and conditions. Microinsurance, which provides affordable coverage for specific, smaller-scale risks, can be especially appealing to Gen Z. This generation may not have substantial financial resources but still needs protection.

Microinsurance policies can be tailored to cover travel mishaps, gadget protection, or event cancellations at affordable premiums. In the Philippines, Igloo offers products like Travel Master for travel enthusiasts to protect them health emergencies, flight delays and cancellations and Pet Insure, which provides three-in-one coverage package including reimbursements for veterinary care, owner’s liability coverage, and personal accident coverage for dog owners, ensuring that their pets a living their best lives.

By offering these targeted and relevant solutions, insurers can demonstrate an understanding of Gen Z's priorities and financial constraints, fostering a stronger connection with this demographic.

Meet your Gen Z customers where they are

This generation values convenience and expects services to be integrated into their digital lifestyles effortlessly. By embedding insurance within products or services that Gen Z already uses and trusts—such as offering gadget insurance at the point of purchase of a mobile phone or laptop, for example—insurers can streamline the purchase experience. Insurance then becomes more relevant to the consumer, making it a natural part of their purchasing decisions, rather than an afterthought.

Moreover, embedding insurance in relevant contexts enhances its perceived value and relevance to Gen Z. Insurers can integrate insurance options into digital wallets or payment apps, making it easier for Gen Z to purchase them. Igloo, for instance, has collaborated with prominent regional fintech players like GCash in the Philippines, DANA in Indonesia, and ZaloPay in Vietnam, integrating their insurance products into platforms that Gen Z consumers are accustomed to.

Through embedding insurance, insurers demonstrate the value of protection in scenarios that resonate with Gen Z's experiences and priorities, positioning insurance as a supportive and proactive solution in their daily lives.

Gamify insurance to make it fun and rewarding

Gamification involves incorporating game design elements into non-game contexts to enhance user engagement, enjoyment, and motivation. For insurers, this means transforming routine tasks like policy management and claims processing into interactive activities, creating a more appealing experience for younger consumers.

Insurers can offer points, badges, and other incentives for behavior, which will work well for Gen Z who are motivated by rewards and recognition. For example, users can earn points renewing policies, referring friends, or completing a task. These points can then be redeemed for rewards, creating a sense of value and appreciation. This approach not only incentivizes engagement but also builds a loyal customer base.

Gamification can also address the complexity issues Gen Z faces with traditional insurance products by simplifying it through interactive tutorials, quizzes, and simulations. Users can complete these educational modules and earn rewards, making the learning process both informative and engaging.

Igloo believes insurers targeting Gen Z in Southeast Asia must simplify insurance, making it accessible and rewarding. By aligning with Gen Z's preferences, insurers can build trust and loyalty while expanding insurance penetration.

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Rosie A. Dominguez Retires: Reflecting on a Legacy of Excellence at Alsons Dev

Rosie A. Dominguez Retires: Reflecting on a Legacy of Excellence at Alsons Dev

Looking back on Rosie Dominguez's legacy after stepping down from her role as Executive Vice President for Alsons Development and Investment Corporation.

For over 30 years, Rosie A. Dominguez has been the driving force behind Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), Davao City's leading real estate developer. Her dedication, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence have not only propelled the company to new heights but also significantly shaped the landscape and enhanced the quality of life in Davao. 

Following her retirement as Executive Vice President, it is fitting to look back on Rosie’s remarkable achievements and her lasting impact on Alsons Dev.

A legacy of pioneering developments

Ladislawa Garden Village, one of Rosie's earliest achievements, stands as a key milestone in Davao’s real estate history, being the city's first gated subdivision with leisure amenities.

Rosie’s tenure is highlighted by groundbreaking projects that have transformed residential living in Davao. A major milestone was the relaunch of the company’s initial residential project, Ladislawa, into Ladislawa Garden Village. This project was Davao's first themed residential community and the city's first subdivision with country club facilities, setting a high standard for future developments.

From 1994 to 2010, Alsons Dev built a reputation for exceptional living spaces by incorporating community-centric designs. Projects like Woodridge Park, Las Terrazas, Northcrest, Fernwood, Wood Lane, and Eden Ridge established the company as a leader in creating high-quality residential environments.

In 2013, Rosie led the development of Northtown, a vibrant township designed to meet the city's evolving needs. This was followed in 2016 by the introduction of a new mid-cost housing brand, Nurtura Land and Home, with Narra Park Residences as the maiden project.

The country’s first integrated emergency response facility, the Public Safety and Security Complex in Northtown Center, Cabantian, is a pioneering project donated to the City Government of Davao in 2016 that was especially close to Rosie’s heart.

The 2022 launch of Poblacion Market Central further diversified the company’s portfolio and enhanced the local shopping and dining experience. Poblacion is the new home of the shops from the Aldevinco Shopping Center, Alsons Dev’s pioneering shopping center that operated from 1965 to 2021.

Expanding beyond Davao, Alsons Dev also ventured into Alabel, Sarangani in 2023 with the launch of a master-planned, mixed-use township, Avia Estate, and Narra Park Residences Avia.

Celebrating Success and Excellence

Exceptional communities like Narra Park Residences have been recognized by national real estate award-giving bodies, cementing Alsons Dev as one of Davao’s leading real estate developers.

Rosie’s exceptional leadership didn't go unnoticed, as Alsons Dev earned numerous recognitions under her guidance. From 2020 onwards, the company was named one of the top real estate developer partners at the BPI Partners Appreciation Night, honored as one of the top local developers in terms of title delivery and production.

Additionally, Narra Park Residences and Northtown Residences both received accolades from the 11th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards and The Outlook 2023: Philippine Real Estate Awards by Lamudi, further demonstrating the company’s versatility and excellence in the real estate sector.

Passing the Torch

Rosie's influence extends beyond projects and awards. Her dedication has been key to establishing Alsons Dev as the leading real estate developer in Davao City, fostering a strong organization poised for continued success.

Rosie Dominguez (center) is joined by Miguel Dominguez, Alsons Dev’s new President and CEO (second from bottom left), and the company’s top executives. Under Rosie’s leadership, the team thrived, building a foundation of trust and collaboration that elevated Alsons Dev to new milestones.

Reflecting on her career, Rosie shared, “It’s been an incredible journey working alongside talented individuals to build Alsons Dev and positively impact Davao. Together, we’ve created thriving communities and a strong sense of belonging. I’m confident that our team will keep excelling and enhancing the lives of Mindanaoans for years to come.”

As Rosie retires, her son, Miguel Rene A. Dominguez, takes the helm as the new President and CEO of Alsons Dev. The young Dominguez has previously held various key roles within the Alcantara Group group of companies, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to his new position.

Miguel expressed, “My mother’s dedication and vision have profoundly shaped the company and the city. I am honored to continue her legacy of creating exceptional living environments and contributing to Davao City's growth.”

Rosie’s retirement marks the end of a significant era at Alsons Dev but also heralds a new chapter of growth and opportunity. With a solid foundation and a forward-looking vision, Alsons Dev is well-positioned to continue shaping Davao City’s landscape and delivering outstanding living experiences for future generations.

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GPULP Scholarship Foundation names 24 new scholars

GPULP Scholarship Foundation names 24 new scholars

Thursday, August 22, 2024

Brothers Gregorio L. Uy and Samuel L. Uy, CPA, RGC (top center), founders of the Gregorio P. Uy & Lee Peng Scholarship Foundation (GPULP Scholarship Foundation), introduce its 2024 scholars during the ‘LF: Scholar’ awarding ceremony held recently at the Isabela State University Cauayan Campus.

The Gregorio P. Uy & Lee Peng Scholarship Foundation (GPULP Scholarship Foundation) has finally found its newest batch of scholars. These deserving students are set to receive full financial assistance and other means of support until they graduate and take their licensure exams.

The new scholars are (in no particular order) Jhon Ace De Vera, Cassandra Bacani, Clarisel Baccay, Ma. Clarisse Neri Cuaresma, Danny Dela Cruz, Edgar Daiz Jr., Krishelle Radine Ebreo, Ronalyn Languido, Aristotle Lee Maramag, Jeftee Obena, Janelle Keith Pascua, Irish Santos, Angelito Soriano, Angeli Villamar, Jolina Villanueva, Daryl Albano, Dominic Francisco, King Marion Apil, Jhanelle Creyzha Arteta, Daryl Jay Molina, Kristine Joy Onnagan, Mark Vincent Parinas, Lebron James Romero, and Adrean Faith Viernes. They study at the Philippine Normal University – North, Isabela State University (ISU – Cauayan and San Mariano campuses), and Cagayan State University – Carig.

“From the original 18 scholars, we have expanded the list to 24 new scholars since more applicants have qualified at this time. It is our ardent hope that they will use this opportunity to forge their path to success and someday pay it forward. We are truly excited to embark on this journey with our scholars and their families, and to witness the great things they will do for society,” said GPULP Scholarship Foundation Vice President Michael Uy.

Apart from the holistic support for the scholars, their parents will also receive life skills training monthly. This way, the assistance is inclusive and sustainable for the entire family.

‘Set for the future’

Founded by businessmen brothers Gregorio Uy Jr. and Samuel Uy, the GPULP Scholarship Foundation has been extending grants to excellent yet underprivileged students in Isabela and Cagayan. It was named after their parents Gregorio P. Uy and Lee Peng.

In the last school year alone, 18 scholars have graduated, seven of which received Latin honors. Some are currently doing their review in preparation for their respective Board Examinations. All expenses during this time are still covered by the GPULP Scholarship Foundation.

To date, the Foundation has a record of 100% passing rate in the Licensure Examination for Teachers, Civil Engineers Licensure Examination, and Agriculturists Licensure Examination among its scholars. Its Accountancy graduates have a 96% passing rate record, while its Agricultural Engineering graduates are at 91%.

Among these achievers, two were regional top-notchers in their respective Board Exams back in 2018. Alumni also enjoy high chances of employability in both the public and private sectors, a testament to the continued success of the program.

Alumnus Philip Salvador of the ISU Echague Main Campus was invited to the “LF: Scholar” Awarding Ceremony recently to impart a message of inspiration. He is now a Certified Public Accountant working for The Salvation Army Social Services Inc.

“This scholarship does not only help us financially but also supports us morally for us to really achieve our dreams. The monthly sessions taught us the value of discipline and motivated us to strive for excellence,” he said.

Among his peers, three are currently in supervisory and senior positions.

“To our dear scholars, the road ahead of you is still long so don’t let the gas run out—your passion and fire in whatever you do. Yes, it will be hard, but it will be worth it. I would like to thank the humble benefactors of the GPULPSF. Thank you for your generosity and support to us,” Salvador added.

To know more about the GPULP Scholarship Foundation and its advocacies, follow its Facebook page or visit the website.

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