Wadhwani Foundation enhances school-to-work journey in PH with AI and $1M annual grant funding per organization

Wadhwani Foundation enhances school-to-work journey in PH with AI and $1M annual grant funding per organization

Saturday, December 7, 2024

Wadhwani Foundation, a private philanthropic institution, offers a 24/7 mobile-first AI-powered skilling platform called Wadhwani GenieAI that includes multiple AI Co-Pilots to bridge critical gaps between education and employment in the Philippines. The platform provides free career counseling tools and teacher training. The Foundation also offers grants of up to $1 million annually to organizations, supporting sustainable job creation and workforce upskilling.

At the Wadhwani Foundation Welcome Reception held at Yuchengco Museum, Makati City, President & CEO Dr. Ajay Kela shared that their free AI-powered platform equips Filipino learners with in-demand job skills and trains educators in AI-driven career counseling.

A survey recently conducted by the Foundation revealed that only 10% of K-12 graduates immediately enter the job market. While 83% pursue university education, only 25% of these university enrollees graduate from higher education institutions. The survey further showed that the remaining 75% who leave university without completing their degrees eventually join the workforce. Meanwhile, 1.5% of the graduates venture into entrepreneurship, while 5.5% fall into the category of “Not in Education, Employment, or Training.” These factors contribute to job instability and low wages.

“Our free AI-powered platform provides access to in-demand job skills that address the gaps in the school-to-work journey of K-12 students in the Philippines,” said Dr. Ajay Kela, President & CEO of Wadhwani Foundation. “We are excited to collaborate in the Philippines to leverage AI-driven solutions that empower students, improve public services, and generate jobs.”

The Foundation currently collaborates with over 60 partners across the Philippines, reaching 22,000 students through AI Co-Pilots. It helps students build in-demand job skills and make informed career choices, while also providing training for educators to deliver AI-driven career counseling.

Boosting Job Creation in PH

To boost job creation in the Philippines, the Wadhwani Foundation, through its grant-making arm, Wadhwani Charitable Foundation (WCF), also offers grants up to $1 million annually to high-impact organizations.

Wadhwani Foundation announced that they are providing grants of up to $1 million annually to organizations to drive job creation in PH. (From left: Dr. Ajay Kela, President & CEO of Wadhwani Foundation; and Angela Chen-Delantar, Vice President for Skilling of Wadhwani Foundation.)

"We are looking for non-profit organizations, enterprises, and academic institutions that share our vision to boost job creation for the 21st-century workforce," said Angela Chen-Delantar, Vice President for Skilling of Wadhwani Foundation. "Our funding will help them expand impact, enabling us to reach 1 million lives by 2030 and providing more Filipinos with job opportunities for a better future."

WCF seeks organizations in the country focused on job fulfillment or creation, with a proven track record of scaling impact. Ideal partners operate within a $1-5 million budget, demonstrating strong leadership in their sector.

Aside from the annual funding, WCF provides comprehensive support to partner organizations including access to the GenieAI platform for job creation, skilling, and placement, and opportunities to collaborate with the Foundation's global network, leveraging expertise in program management and impact measurement.

The funding initiative is also offered in other emerging economies with large and growing youth populations such as Mexico, Brazil, and Indonesia.

The Wadhwani Foundation, a non-profit tech organization founded in 2001 by Silicon Valley entrepreneur Dr. Romesh Wadhwani, is dedicated to accelerating job growth and improving lives across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Organizations can get  more information about the Wadhwani GenieAI at web.opportunity.wfglobal.org and apply for the grant via the Foundation’s website at www.wadhwanifoundation.org.

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Eastern Communications Partners with AMS-IX, HGC Global Communications, and STT GDC Philippines to Strengthen PH’s Global Connectivity

Eastern Communications Partners with AMS-IX, HGC Global Communications, and STT GDC Philippines to Strengthen PH’s Global Connectivity

Eastern Communications is the first Philippine telecom provider to partner with AMS-IX, one of the world’s largest peering hubs, along with global companies HGC and STT GDC Philippines. The partnership aims to provide faster and more secure links to international data networks, empowering Philippine enterprises with improved connectivity and expanded access to global Internet Protocol (IP) traffic.

With a shared vision of enhancing global connectivity for Philippine businesses, telecommunications and ICT company Eastern Communications, Amsterdam Internet Exchange (AMS-IX), HGC Global Communications, and ST Telemedia Global Data Centres Philippines (STT GDC Philippines) held an official launch event and contract signing ceremony on December 2, 2024, at New World Hotel Makati. 

[From L to R:] Eastern Communications Co-Coordinators Jaeson Evangelista and Atty. Aileen Regio, HGC Philippines President Michael De Castro, and AMS-IX International Partnership Director Onno Bos.

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AF Payments and PCG Launch beep™-Enabled ID Cards to Modernize Public Service

AF Payments and PCG Launch beep™-Enabled ID Cards to Modernize Public Service

Friday, December 6, 2024

AF Payments Inc., the leader in contactless payment technology in the Philippines, has partnered with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to launch dynamic beep™-enabled ID cards. This innovative collaboration marks a significant milestone in modernizing public service through digital transformation.

Revolutionizing Identification and Payment

The newly introduced beep™-enabled ID card serves as both an official ID and a cashless payment solution. It integrates seamlessly with the beep™ ecosystem, which is widely used across public transport systems such as LRT1, LRT2, MRT3, and P2P buses, as well as retail outlets like Lawson and Uncle John’s convenience stores.

Speaking at the launch event held at the PCG National Headquarters in Manila, AF Payments Inc. President & CEO Jonathan Juan “JJ” Moreno emphasized the transformative potential of this innovation:

“The beep™-enabled ID cards will not only enhance the professional experience of PCG personnel but also make everyday transactions more seamless and rewarding. This partnership exemplifies how technology can elevate public service and drive modernization.”

Supporting PCG’s Digital Transformation

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista lauded the initiative as a step toward the government’s broader modernization goals. “This project signals a forward-looking vision, integrating technology into the daily lives of those who protect our nation. The Philippine Coast Guard is setting an example of how institutions can innovate to improve efficiency and convenience for their personnel.”

PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil L. Gavan echoed this sentiment, noting how the beep™-enabled ID cards bring the organization closer to full digital visibility. He said, “This development is part of the PCG’s ongoing efforts to modernize and embrace technological advancements. It’s a testament to our commitment to innovation and service excellence.”

Key Features of beep™-Enabled ID Cards

The beep™-enabled ID cards offer PCG personnel:

Cashless Convenience: Seamless payment options across public transportation and partner retail stores.

Exclusive Rewards: Access to beep™ promotions, freebies, and rewards points.

Efficiency in Transactions: Streamlined processes for both professional and personal use.

Expanding the Scope of beep™ Technology

This milestone serves as a call to action for other government agencies to adopt beep™ technology. By leveraging innovations like the beep™-enabled ID cards, institutions can improve operational efficiency, enhance convenience for employees, and align with the national digital transformation agenda.

Partner with AF Payments Inc.

AF Payments Inc. remains dedicated to promoting innovation and invites businesses and government agencies to collaborate on similar transformative projects. Through partnerships, the company aims to push the boundaries of digital transformation in the Philippines.

To learn more or explore partnership opportunities, visit beep.com.ph/beep-business or contact the Service Desk at:

(02) 87379600 (Landline)

09175121319 (Globe Line)

09985819675 (Smart Line)

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FWD Life Insurance Philippines hailed Tech Innovator of the Year at DMAP Boomerang Awards

FWD Life Insurance Philippines hailed Tech Innovator of the Year at DMAP Boomerang Awards

Monday, December 2, 2024

FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines), one of the fastest-growing insurance companies in the country, bagged four prestigious awards at the 2024 Boomerang Awards, helmed by the Digital Marketing Association of the Philippines’ (DMAP).

These awards celebrate FWD’s innovation for The One for gamers, a first-in-the-market and fully customizable life insurance bespoke for the gaming community. FWD won Tech Innovation of the Year along with two category-specific wins: a Silver Boomerang in Gaming and a Bronze Boomerang in Commerce.

The One for gamers was launched during the 12th season of the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League Philippines, and highlighted the value of insurance to a widely underprotected gaming community.

Starting at PhP330 for a year of coverage, The One for gamers can provide protection in just minutes at the FWD Online Shop, with no medical exams required. Gamers can also add critical illness benefit, accidental death coverage, or both. The policy covers most gamer-related health illnesses including loss of sight, hypertension, and motor neuron disease. Policyholders can enhance their gaming experience with added protection through exclusive Vision Express vouchers, included as the current exclusive benefit.

For winning these major awards, FWD was named “Tech Innovator of the Year – Advertiser,” highlighting the insurance brand’s commitment to offering innovative products, services, and initiatives tailor-fit to the next generation’s needs, concerns, and goals.

“We’re very honored for this recognition from our peers in the industry,” said Roche Vanderberghe, Chief Marketing and Digital Business Officer. “These awards push us to further strengthen our commitment to being a different kind of insurer that helps the next generation build their best future while supporting what they’re passionate about.”

FWD winning at the Boomerang Awards follows the insurance company’s abundant recognitions throughout the year from key industry award shows like the PRSP Anvil Awards, PANAta Awards, and the 4As Philippines Kidlat Awards.

Read more about how FWD is changing the way people feel about insurance at www.fwd.com.ph.

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From gridlock to green light: How can AI transform Philippines’ traffic

From gridlock to green light: How can AI transform Philippines’ traffic

Written by Raul III "Cricket" Santiago, Managing Director, Fujitsu Philippines

Manila's traffic congestion is amongst the world's worst, significantly impacting the city's economy and the quality of life for Filipinos. In 2023, it held the unenviable title of the world's most congested metro area according to the TomTom Traffic Index.

The daily struggle is a constant reality, requiring innovative solutions.

Driving change with new technology for road traffic in the Philippines

The Road Safety Action Plan (RSAP) in the Philippines was officially launched in 2017 as part of the government's commitment to improving road safety and addressing the high rates of traffic-related injuries and fatalities. It serves as a framework for the Philippines government to implement a series of strategies aimed at enhancing road safety.

With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), how can this transformative technology play a role in advancing the government’s objectives?

Here are three possible ways how AI can help the Philippines move towards a more efficient, responsive, and safer transportation system:

1. Intelligent traffic surveillance: Seeing beyond the gridlock

Current methods of monitoring traffic rely heavily on manual observation and often miss crucial details.

Using machine learning, vision AI can accurately count and classify vehicles, providing a real-time comprehensive picture of traffic flow. The data-driven insights will enable proactive interventions to prevent accidents and alleviate congestion.

For example, a city like Montreal, once struggled with severe congestion, particularly around its port, drastically improved its traffic flow using Fujitsu's AI-enabled data analysis platform to optimize the management of 2,500 traffic lights. This solution enables the city to make data-driven decisions to streamline traffic flows, lower fuel consumption and reduce air pollution. This is a success story that shows the potential of Vision AI for tackling Manila’s traffic challenges.

2. Rapid incident response: Seconds that save lives

In a traffic emergency, rapid response is critical. Traditional methods often react too slowly, leading to escalating accidents and widespread gridlock.

AI-powered systems can automatically detect incidents on the road – accidents, stalled vehicles, or even unusual pedestrian behaviors – and instantly alert traffic operators. This will dramatically improve response times, enable quicker intervention, minimize disruption and potentially save lives.

Japan's highway system provides a compelling example of how AI can help contribute directly to the government’s objective of safer roads. Fujitsu's AI-powered traffic management system has significantly improved highway safety, especially during severe weather, by providing real-time data that allows for preemptive accident prevention.

3. Advanced traffic forecasting: Seeing beyond the obvious

Traditional systems often struggle to analyze complex traffic conditions in real-time, particularly in areas with limited visibility.

AI's advanced modelling capabilities can overcome these limitations. By analyzing historical data and real-time feeds, AI can predict potential bottlenecks and congestion hotspots, enabling proactive alterations to traffic signals and infrastructure planning.

Fujitsu and Carnegie Mellon University's collaboration on AI-powered social digital twin technology in Pittsburgh, USA, demonstrates this potential. The system captures highly detailed real-time traffic images, identifying potential hazards even in blind spots, resulting in a substantial reduction in accidents in the city of Pittsburgh.

We believe that an AI-powered traffic management requires a three-pronged approach

Unlocking AI's full potential requires building a robust data collection system, a scalable cloud infrastructure, and a real-time alert system. This strategic approach will empower organizations to make data-driven decisions instantly.

• Robust data collection: Deploying a strategically planned network of high-resolution cameras and sensors across key areas in the Philippines will provide the foundational data for AI-driven insights.

• Scalable cloud architecture: A robust and scalable cloud infrastructure will be implemented to efficiently process the huge amount of data generated by the sensor network. This architecture will ensure the system capacity keeps pace with future growth and technological advancements.

• Real-time actionable response systems: Seamless integration of AI-driven insights with existing and future traffic management systems will enable real-time, adaptive responses, optimizing traffic flow and enhancing safety.

With these elements in place, decision makers can harness the power of AI to transform the country’s approach to road safety. This will help create a more efficient, safer, and responsive transportation system, achieving the objectives of the government’s Road Safety Action Plan (RSAP) and improving the lives of all Filipinos.

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QC Government and SPARK! Philippines Launch “The KITA Initiative” to Empower Women Entrepreneurs

QC Government and SPARK! Philippines Launch “The KITA Initiative” to Empower Women Entrepreneurs

Sunday, December 1, 2024

The Quezon City government, in collaboration with SPARK! (Samahan ng mga Pilipina para sa Reporma at Kaunlaran) Philippines, has launched “The KITA Initiative”, a transformative project designed to empower women entrepreneurs and highlight their vital contributions to the local economy.

The initiative was officially unveiled during a launch event at the Stonehouse Hotel, with notable speakers including Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, SPARK! Philippines Executive Director Maica Teves, and Havas Ortega Executive Creative Director Angie Tijam-Tohid.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

Mayor Joy Belmonte emphasized the local government’s unwavering commitment to creating opportunities for women entrepreneurs:

“With the launch of ‘The KITA Initiative,’ we are once again putting our fellow women at the heart of our goal to create a truly prosperous, fair, and just society.”

Belmonte highlighted that the initiative aims to foster a more inclusive environment where women-led microenterprises, such as sari-sari stores, can thrive.

Focus on Sari-Sari Stores

The pilot phase of The KITA Initiative focuses on sari-sari stores in the Kamuning area, which are predominantly managed by women. The project reimagines store signage using the KITA font, a design tool aimed at improving visibility and increasing recognition of these businesses' contributions to the local economy.

SPARK! Philippines Executive Director Maica Teves stressed the importance of solidarity and collaboration to uplift Filipina entrepreneurs:

“We must become advocates for ourselves, our sisters, our daughters, and every Filipina who dreams of a more equitable future. This project puts the spotlight on sari-sari store owners, bringing their businesses into focus.”

Expanding Opportunities for Women Entrepreneurs

Havas Ortega’s Angie Tijam-Tohid echoed this sentiment, outlining the broader vision of the initiative:

“It is only the beginning of ‘The KITA Initiative.’ Our vision is to bring together more collaborators—women entrepreneurs, brands, allies, and advocates. Together, we can provide mentorship, resources, networks, and funding that will empower these women to grow their businesses and realize their full potential.”

Nationwide Expansion

Following its launch in Kamuning, The KITA Initiative is set to expand to other areas in Quezon City and across the Philippines, bringing its transformative impact to more women entrepreneurs.

To learn more about The KITA Initiative, download the KITA font and toolkit for your business at www.thekitainitiative.com.

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JCVA Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Robust 2025 Project Pipeline Amid Positive Philippine Construction Outlook

JCVA Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Robust 2025 Project Pipeline Amid Positive Philippine Construction Outlook

Celebrating its 10th year of operations, JCV & Associates Project Management and Development, Inc. (JCVA) has announced a strong lineup of projects for 2025. CEO Engr. Jason Valderrama shared this milestone during a media roundtable held on November 28, as the Philippine construction industry is poised for sustained growth, with an annual increase of 8.2% projected through 2028 by Business Monitor International’s Infrastructure Report.

A Decade of Excellence in Project Management

Since its founding in 2014, JCVA has built a diverse portfolio encompassing residential developments, logistics and industrial facilities, commercial spaces, and healthcare infrastructure nationwide. Valderrama highlighted the company’s readiness for the coming year, “Our team has laid strong groundwork for 2025, with several major projects secured. We’re excited to deliver innovative, tech-driven solutions to local and multinational clients across various industries.”

Driving Innovation with Digital Construction Technologies

In a traditionally conservative industry, JCVA sets itself apart by embracing advanced digital technologies. The firm leverages Building Information Modeling (BIM) to create precise project models, enabling seamless remote collaboration and proactive issue resolution before construction begins.

Additionally, JCVA utilizes an AI-powered platform that provides real-time, 360-degree documentation of construction sites, enhancing transparency and accountability. For large-scale projects, drones are deployed for comprehensive site monitoring.

To ensure clients have full visibility of progress, JCVA’s proprietary Agile + Vault platform provides real-time updates on schedules, budgets, and construction progress. Through this cloud-based system, clients can access site photos, walkthrough videos, and status reports without needing to visit the site physically.

Championing Sustainability in Construction

Sustainability is a core focus for JCVA, with the firm managing eight projects that meet international green building standards. Among these, JCVA has partnered with a global sports retail giant to exclusively manage its Philippine branches, all of which are EDGE-certified, ensuring energy and water efficiency. Seven of these retail locations have already been completed, with two more in progress.

JCVA’s sustainability expertise extends to large-scale industrial projects, such as a 10-hectare warehouse distribution center in Calamba, Laguna, developed for a global shipping and logistics company. The facility, which achieved LEED Gold Certification, incorporates features like rainwater harvesting systems, energy-efficient lighting, and solar panels, reducing energy use by 55% and eliminating outdoor water consumption.

Key Growth Areas for 2025

Looking ahead, Valderrama identified logistics, healthcare, and tourism as major growth drivers in the Philippine construction industry:

Logistics: The e-commerce boom has spurred demand for state-of-the-art warehousing and distribution facilities.

Healthcare: Addressing the shortage of hospital beds remains a top priority, with JCVA poised to take on more healthcare infrastructure projects.

Tourism: With the resurgence of domestic and international travel, hospitality projects are gaining momentum.

“We’re excited to expand into these sectors and help address critical infrastructure needs in the country,” Valderrama said.

Setting New Standards in Construction

With a decade of expertise and a robust 2025 project pipeline, JCVA continues to redefine standards in Philippine construction management. The company’s integration of technology, sustainability, and client-focused solutions positions it as a leader in the industry.

From managing logistics hubs to spearheading green retail projects, JCVA demonstrates its versatility and commitment to innovation. As the Philippine construction industry grows, JCVA is well-prepared to lead the charge toward a more sustainable and efficient future.

For more information about JCVA’s projects and expertise in construction management, visit their official website or follow them on social media platforms.

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