Gurīn Energy completes 75MW solar project in the Philippines

Gurīn Energy completes 75MW solar project in the Philippines

Wednesday, February 19, 2025

The Palauig Solar Power Plant is Gurīn Energy’s first project in the Philippines and part of the company’s 7GW pipeline of projects across Asia

Gurīn Energy, a Singapore-headquartered renewable energy developer, owner and operator, today announced the completion of its 75 megawatt (MW) solar plant in the Philippines, its first operational project in the country.

Located in the municipality of Palauig, Zambales Province, the 80-hectare Palauig Solar Power Plant has installed 136,363 of the latest ground-mounted, energy-efficient solar photovoltaic panels. The solar farm will produce enough clean and zero-emission electricity to avoid 53,100 metric tons of climate-changing emissions annually – or the equivalent of taking 11,500 combustion-engine cars off the road per year. The project is owned by Shizen Inc, a fully-owned subsidiary of Gurīn Energy.

Bob Driscoll, Chief Operating Officer at Gurīn Energy, said: “The completion of the Palauig Solar Power Plant, our first operational project, is a milestone in Gurīn Energy’s drive to help move Asia to 100% renewable energy. Our achievement is reflective of the ongoing support we have received from the communities in Palauig, to whom we express our thanks. We are also grateful to our sole bank partner UnionBank of the Philippines who provided project financing for the plant, our partners including Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower), Radio Veritas and to the national, provincial and municipal authorities.”

Bob Driscoll, Chief Operating Officer of Gurīn Energy, expressed gratitude to partners and the local community for their unwavering support at a site blessing ceremony for the Palauig Solar Power Plant on Friday, 14 February 2025.

The company signed a partnership with AboitizPower’s retail electricity units Adventenergy Inc and Adventpower Inc for the offtake of the solar farm, ensuring a reliable and sustainable supply of clean energy to the latter’s commercial and industrial customers.

The company also today unveiled the Cari Leviste Azores Visit Solar Education Programme, an immersive field experience for public school students at the Palauig solar farm. The programme aims to:

• Teach students about renewable energy;

• Enhance science education by demonstrating real-world applications;

• And inspire them to consider careers in sustainability and clean energy.

The programme, named in honour of the late Cari Leviste Azores of the Leviste family who had played a pivotal role in the development of the project, is free to all Philippines primary and secondary schools and will begin welcoming visitors from October 2025.

Joey Leviste Jr, Senior Advisor to Gurīn Energy and Chairman of Shizen Inc, said: “Through the Cari Leviste Azores Visit Solar Education Programme, we hope that the next generation of Filipinos will be inspired to pursue careers in clean energy and sustainability. The Philippines has set a goal to raise the share of renewable energy in the national power mix to 35% by 2030, making it important to begin attracting talent to the sector.”

Mr Leviste added: “Through the Palauig Solar Power Plant and the Cari Leviste Azores Visit Solar Education Programme, Gurīn Energy is pleased to support the Philippines’ renewable energy targets.”

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Visa and Credit Card Association of the Philippines (CCAP) Unveil Partnership on New Financial Literacy Modules to Empower Filipino Consumers

Visa and Credit Card Association of the Philippines (CCAP) Unveil Partnership on New Financial Literacy Modules to Empower Filipino Consumers

Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, is collaborating with the Credit Card Association of the Philippines (CCAP) to enhance financial education in the country. Visa will provide modules from its Practical Money Skills global digital platform for use in CCAP's training sessions, aiming to empower Filipinos to make informed financial decisions. Visa’s educational resources aim to help Filipino cardholders in the Philippines, thereby enhancing financial literacy and inclusion in the country.

The Partnership Agreement was signed on February 6, 2025, with key Visa executives in attendance, including Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager of Visa Philippines; Rolando Ebreo, CCAP Chairman; Geraldine Liggayu, CCAP President; and Alex Ilagan, CCAP Executive Director, along with other representatives from CCAP.

“We are excited to collaborate with CCAP. Providing financial education in the Philippines is crucial for making digital payments accessible and empowering Filipinos. At Visa, we are committed to driving digital and financial inclusion. By offering our education modules, we aim to reach a broader audience and equip individuals with essential skills for the digital economy,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager, Visa Philippines.

Increasing digital and financial literacy among Filipinos encourages the adoption of cashless payments, offering a more seamless, secure, and convenient option. According to Visa's latest Consumer Payment Attitudes Study, cash usage in the Philippines has declined to 87%, down from 96% in 2022. In 2023, 83% of Filipinos attempted to go cashless, with 43% carrying less cash than the previous year. This trend supports the broader goal of building a robust digital economy in the Philippines.

“CCAP is dedicated to promoting financial literacy and empowering consumers to make sound financial decisions. This partnership with Visa allows us to leverage their expertise to reach more Filipinos and help them navigate the digital landscape. This initiative also aligns with CCAP’s collaborative efforts with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to promote responsible credit card use and financial literacy among Filipinos. Together, we are building a more inclusive and digitally-savvy Philippines,” said Alex G. Ilagan, Executive Director, CCAP.

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Safer Internet, Safer Futures: Helping Young Users Navigate the Online World this Safer Internet Day

Safer Internet, Safer Futures: Helping Young Users Navigate the Online World this Safer Internet Day

While today’s young people are digital natives, their familiarity with technology doesn’t always shield them from online threats. In the Philippines, users are 33 times more likely to encounter risks on unsafe platforms like pirate websites, highlighting the need for stronger safeguards. For children, the dangers are even greater. Their natural curiosity and frequent online activity make them prime targets for malicious content, online predators, and unauthorized data collection.

One alarming trend is the rise of AI-driven attacks, including highly convincing deepfakes enabled by generative AI. Last year, deepfakes impersonating prominent public figures in the Philippines made headlines and impacted reputations. This risk will only continue – in fact, Palo Alto Networks predicts that 2025 is the year deepfakes go mainstream in Asia Pacific. If high-profile individuals can fall victim to identity fraud, children and young people—who are increasingly active on social media and frequently share content—face even greater risks.

These growing concerns have led to efforts in the region to implement stronger digital protections. For example in Singapore, discussions are ongoing about age-based restrictions on social media access, with the country engaging with Australia to understand its approach following Australia’s proposal to ban children under 16 from these platforms..

Recognizing the urgent need to protect young users from online threats, Palo Alto Networks emphasizes the importance of fostering safer digital practices this Safer Internet Day. By promoting good online habits and building awareness, everyone can play a role in protecting young users from digital threats. Here are some practical tips to help families and schools create a secure online experience:

For Parents and Guardians:

Secure devices: Keep all devices updated with the latest software and strong, unique passwords to safeguard against cyber threats.

Teach safe internet habits by example: Demonstrate responsible online behavior to encourage children to adopt similar practices.

Create a safe digital space: Place computers in common areas and set up restricted accounts to ensure children’s online safety.

For Schools and Educators:

Teach cyber hygiene: Educate students, staff, and parents on recognizing phishing links and verifying email senders.

Encourage open discussions: Create safe spaces for students to address cyber mistakes, such as clicking on phishing links, without fear of judgment.

Promote secure communication: Promote the use of “safe words” to verify the authenticity of calls or messages and prevent impersonation scams.

While parents and educators play a crucial role in online safety, young users themselves must practice good online habits to protect themselves from digital threats. Here are some ways for them to stay safe online:

For Young Online Users:

Update devices regularly: Security updates protect devices from hackers.

Use strong passwords or passphrases: Combine four or more random words to create passwords that are hard to guess but easy to remember.

Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of security by requiring more than just a password to log in.

Be cautious online: Avoid clicking on links or opening files from unknown sources.

Report suspicious activity: Inform a trusted adult or report to a cyber safety site if something seems unusual.

Nearly 70% of children and adolescents worldwide faced cyber risks, reinforcing the urgent need for stronger safeguards. These dangers take many forms, including exposure to inappropriate content, online exploitation, cyberbullying, and the impact of excessive screen time—growing more complex as young users become more active online.

"Children today face growing cyber risks with bad actors taking advantage of their digital habits, trust in online platforms, and lack of awareness,” said Oscar Visaya, Country Manager of Palo Alto Networks in the Philippines. "Cybersecurity is no longer an afterthought in child protection—it must be a fundamental pillar. At Palo Alto Networks, we are committed to equipping parents, educators, and young users with the knowledge and tools to recognize, prevent, and respond to these threats, ensuring they can explore, learn, and connect in a safer digital environment.”

Safer Internet Day is a powerful reminder of the growing risks young people face online. Palo Alto Networks supports this mission through its Cyber Safe Kids initiative, which provides families and schools with interactive tools, educational resources, and expert guidance. These resources help create safer digital spaces where young users can explore and learn with confidence.

As the digital world continues to evolve, protecting young users online remains a critical priority. By combining awareness, education, and proactive measures, we can equip young people with the skills and confidence to navigate the digital environment safely and responsibly.

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Vista Land Makes Homeownership Easy for Filipinos Nationwide with MOVE

Vista Land Makes Homeownership Easy for Filipinos Nationwide with MOVE

The Philippines’ leading integrated property developer, Vista Land, continues to bring the lifelong dream of homeownership to many Filipinos across the archipelago with its MOVE Program. True to its meaning of Making Ownership at Vista Land Easy, its objectives are to streamline the purchase process of select ready-for-occupancy (RFO) house and lot developments and condominium properties in 47 provinces and 149 cities and municipalities and encourage stronger affinity from prospective homeowners in a competitive market.

Industry experts have observed that favorable macroeconomic conditions create a conducive environment for real estate investments, with key drivers such as interest reductions, a growing pool of skilled workforce, and increasing disposable incomes bolstering growth in the residential sector. The transition toward secondary cities and suburban areas—driven by the surge of hybrid work, a preference to settle in safer environments, and improved infrastructure—has redefined homeownership priorities among young professionals, growing families, and Overseas Filipinos (OFs). The demand for RFO properties has gained traction due to their immediate availability, addressing the needs of these evolving demographics.

Vista Land solidifies its role as a trusted leader in the industry by strategically anticipating and adapting to consumer demands and delivering high-quality, secure, and comfortable living spaces. By building master planned developments, horizontal properties, and vertical residences in prime locations and emerging cities, that seamlessly integrate retail, commercial, educational, and lifestyle components, the company enhances residents’ quality of life while contributing to sustainable national development for future generations.

With a current land bank of more than 3,000 hectares, Vista Land remains dedicated to building thriving communities in growth areas, redefining landscapes and setting new standards for living in the decades to come.

Simplifying the path to homeownership

MOVE demonstrates the dedication of Vista Land to making homeownership more accessible to Filipinos, removing the complexities often associated with purchasing a ready-for-occupancy home. From reservation to turnover, the initiative ensures a straightforward and seamless process, supported by a team of real estate professionals guiding buyers and investors at every stage.

With customized payment plans and promotional packages tailored to various financial objectives, MOVE enables more Filipinos residing locally or abroad to invest in their preferred homes. For an easy move-in at only three (3) percent down payment or up to 40 percent savings for spot cash payments, it empowers buyers and investors to take assured steps—from a young professional seeking independence from pakikipanirahan, a family in need of more space for their extended household, an Overseas Filipino building in a better tomorrow for their loved ones back home, to achievers seeking the solace of refined living in grand enclaves or homes in metropolitan skies. This Vista Land exclusive will run for a limited time only. Terms and conditions apply.

Ready homes when you are ready to make the move

Making Ownership at Vista Land EASY is part of a broader vision to transform thriving communities in the country. Each residence—the integrated master planned communities called Vista Estates, themed upscale residences of Crown Asia, Camella’s premium forever homes for Filipinos and their families, condominium properties of Vista Land, vertical villages of Vista Manors, and value-for-money starter models of Lumina—is carefully planned to offer residents access to essential services and establishments. From recreational areas and educational institutions to healthcare and wellness facilities and commercial hubs in a transit-oriented setting, Vista Land cultivates self-sustaining locations that ensure well-lived lifescapes.

Building a life worth living

As the demand for ready-for-occupancy properties continues to rise, MOVE positions Vista Land at the forefront of innovation in Philippine real estate. By providing efficient housing solutions to meet present-day buyers and investors’ needs and preferences, the company makes it possible for more Filipinos and their families to come home to a place they can call their own. Vista Land simplifies the path to homeownership and lays the foundation for lasting fulfillment, prosperity, and happiness—one home, one community, and one dream at a time.

An investment into a better way of living

Filipinos deserve the best—this driving belief has been integral to Vista Land, its day-to-day operations, and is the secret to its success. Creating better, expansive, and global-oriented offerings and experiences, the company capitalizes into these master planned developments, making good on its promise to homebuyers and investors to create superior offerings, and more importantly, deliver excellent long-term investment growth.

For more information on Vista Land developments nationwide and MOVE ready-for-occupancy (RFO) Program, visit www.vistaland.com.ph. Follow VistaLandAndLifescapesOfficial for news and offerings.

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Schneider Electric named World’s Most Sustainable Corporation for a second time in Global 100 rankings

Schneider Electric named World’s Most Sustainable Corporation for a second time in Global 100 rankings

Sunday, February 16, 2025

Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, was recently recognized as the World’s Most Sustainable Corporation for 2025 by Corporate Knights and is the first-ever company to rank first in the Global 100 twice, having previously earned this distinction in 2021. This global recognition marks Schneider’s long-standing commitment to delivering the best environmental, social and governance (ESG) efforts in advancing sustainability and innovation across emerging markets worldwide, including the Philippines.

“For many years now, sustainability has been at the heart of what Schneider Electric does. For an IMPACT company it's more than just a corporate goal, it's the driving force that shapes our business decisions and inspires our employees," said Olivier Blum, Schneider Electric's Chief Executive Officer. "This second title as the World's Most Sustainable Corporation from Corporate Knights, alongside other key ESG recognitions, is testimony to the valuable, long-term positive impact we have.”

Schneider Electric secured the top spot in this year’s Global 100 index due to outstanding sustainability initiatives, including promoting gender diversity in leadership, developing innovative solutions for energy efficiency, electrification and decarbonization, and tying executive pay incentives to its sustainability targets. The company also earned strong scores for its success in decoupling energy consumption and carbon emissions from its business growth, alongside significant investments in sustainable research and development.

This global commitment to sustainability is also mirrored in Schneider Electric’s impactful initiatives in the Philippines. In recent years, the company has demonstrated leadership in sustainable development practices across the country, including being named the most Gender-Inclusive Workplace by the 2024 United Nations Regional Asia-Pacific Women’s Empowerment Principles Awards for its efforts in advancing gender equality and inclusion in the workplace, all while delivering energy-efficient solutions through the expansion of its Smart Distribution Center in Cavite.

With 98% of Philippine firms prioritizing sustainability according to the company’s Green Impact Gap Survey 2024, Schneider Electric continuously supports local companies by advancing energy-efficient technologies, digitalization, and solutions for supply volatility and price fluctuations.

“Digitalization is becoming increasingly crucial for Filipino businesses. While challenges still remain, we are making significant strides,” said Ireen Catane, Country President of Schneider Electric Philippines. “Now, being recognized as the most sustainable corporation in the world twice in a row, it is high time to further accelerate efforts in transforming emerging markets in the Philippines into sustainable landscapes that drive progress and innovation.”

The Global 100 index by Corporate Knights ranks companies on sustainability using public data. Schneider Electric has made the list for 14 consecutive years, ranking in the top 10 seven times—a record in its category. Its recognitions mark the start and completion of the Schneider Sustainability Impact Program, tracking ESG progress toward 2025 goals.

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EastWest Ageas’ ‘What’s Your Purple’ campaign bags two trophies at 60th Anvil Awards

EastWest Ageas’ ‘What’s Your Purple’ campaign bags two trophies at 60th Anvil Awards

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

EastWest Ageas Insurance “What’s Your Purple?” campaign wins double during the 60th Anvil Award.

EastWest Ageas Insurance scored a double win at the 60th Anvil Awards in the Public Relations Tools Special Events and Public Relations Programs Corporate Identity / Corporate Branding categories for its “What’s Your Purple?” campaign and launch party. The Anvil Awards recognize the most innovative, impactful, and inspiring public relations campaigns of the past year with over 500 entries from various organizations and entities across the country.

EastWest Ageas Insurance’s brand campaign “What’s Your Purple?” highlights the lengths people go through to pursue the best life for the ones who matter the most to them. This is summed up by the campaign color, purple, which communicates the philosophy of merging PURpose and peoPLE into one. 

This is the 2nd consecutive year EastWest Ageas Insurance was among the companies recognized for their work. 

“The Philippine insurance industry is a crowded field of players with their own identities. With ‘What’s Your Purple?,’ we at EastWest Ageas Insurance are standing out from the sea of sameness,” explains Greg Martin, Chief Distribution and Marketing Officer, “And not just with a strong and unique color, but with our clear mission to help Filipinos secure their financial future that is aligned with their purpose and people. Most of all, this recognition only shows just how much potential EastWest Ageas has to be included among giants in various industries here in the country.”

“We are humbled to receive these awards. We are a growing company and to be recognized among the giants in the industry was made possible because of the hard work, passion, and dedication our people show, day in and out," adds Sjoerd Smeets, President and CEO. 

With this recognition, EastWest Ageas Insurance remains committed to helping its policyholders build a better tomorrow for all. 

For more information about EastWest Ageas, visit their official website and follow their Facebook page and LinkedIn.  Interested clients may also contact them through the official email AskMe@ewageas.com.ph.

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UnionBank champions AI-driven future at inaugural SONAI 2025

UnionBank champions AI-driven future at inaugural SONAI 2025

Monday, February 10, 2025

At the Philippine Global AI Council’s “State of the Nation in AI (SONAI)” congress, Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) showcased its leadership in AI-driven innovation to enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and strengthen cybersecurity.

SONAI 2025 gathered policymakers, industry leaders, and academics to shape a national AI strategy for global competitiveness. Global AI Council founder Kate Hancock emphasized the need for AI education and accessibility to prevent disparities in the digital era.

UnionBank’s AI Center of Excellence head, Dr. Adrienne Heinrich, highlighted the Bank’s customer-centric approach and the potential of AI to enhance and augment cybersecurity measures. “Currently, we are using AI to analyze our customers’ transactional behavior so that we can catch early on any suspicious activity. This also helps increase operational efficiency by giving us insights around process optimization. For example, there can be so many false positives in suspicious transaction reporting, but because we have an AI model in place, we’ve brought these findings down significantly. This gives investigators more time to focus on the real critical cases.”

“Choosing not to move forward and adopt AI will not stop bad actors from using that technology for their own means. So for us, we anticipate, adapt, learn about AI and its advancements, and wield it proactively,” concluded Dr. Heinrich as she stressed how AI is transforming, not eliminating, jobs—similar to how ATMs initially and mobile apps eventually reshaped banking roles.

Dr. Donald Lim, President of Global AI Council Philippines, urged the country to lead in AI adoption rather than just be users. Global AI Council Philippines Chairman Brian Poe Llamanzares reinforced the importance of AI in driving economic growth and ensuring the country remains competitive.

UnionBank remains committed to responsible AI adoption, championing ethical and inclusive technological advancements that drive security, innovation, and economic progress.

For more information on UnionBank’s next-generation banking initiatives and its commitment to AI-driven innovation, visit the UnionBank website, or follow for updates on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, or Youtube. For any concerns, you can contact us through our Customer Service Hotline at (+632) 8841-8600. Union Bank of the Philippines is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas .

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