This Mother’s Day, Do Something for You

This Mother’s Day, Do Something for You

Thursday, May 8, 2025

Say yes to your goals with PSBank Flexi Personal Loan

Being a mom is a 24/7 job—no time-outs, no log-offs. Between managing work, school projects, family meals, and everything in between, it’s easy to lose sight of one very important person: You.

This Mother’s Day, celebrate saying yes to yourself—because prioritizing your dreams isn’t just smart, it’s empowering. With PSBank Flexi Personal Loan, you can confidently and affordably take the next step toward your goals.

Fund Your Passion Projects

Whether you’re ready to launch that dream business, enroll in a new course, or finally bring a creative idea to life, the PSBank Flexi Personal Loan helps turn your plans into reality.

PSBank’s digital tools like the loan calculator and pre-qualification checklist can easily guide you in the application process with confidence. The Loan Calculator gives a preview of the monthly amortization based on the preferred loan availment and term.

Borrow up to ₱250,000 and enjoy flexible repayment terms of 24 to 36 months—giving you the freedom to move at your own pace and on your own terms.

Invest in the “New You”

It’s your turn to thrive. From scheduling that long-overdue check-up to starting a wellness routine or creating your own peaceful corner at home—this is your sign to focus on you. Prioritize your well-being, and let PSBank Flexi Personal Loan help make it happen.

And the best part? Your approved PSBank Flexi Loan comes with a free Flexi Mastercard that you can use to withdraw funds or swipe at any BancNet and Mastercard-affiliated establishments—seamless and stress-free.

Spend Without the Guilt

Moms are natural budget keepers—so it’s normal to feel a bit guilty about spending on yourself. With PSBank Flexi Personal Loan, you get more than just funds—you get flexibility. Rebates are computed daily and automatically applied to all qualified term loans, rewarding you for paying early or more than your monthly due.

Even better, PSBank Flexi Personal Loan works like a revolving credit line. This means once you repay what you’ve used, your available balance is replenished—ready to be used again when needed without having to reapply. It’s like having a financial safety net that’s always there when opportunity calls.

You can also access your funds 24/7 via ATM, and repay the way that works best for you—whether through PSBank branches, BancNet ATMs, PSBank Mobile or Online, InstaPay, or Online Bill Payment Services.

Mom’s Maaasahan Partner

This Mother’s Day, choose to invest in yourself with PSBank Flexi Personal Loan. Apply for a PSBank Flexi Personal Loan with Prime Rebate via PSBank Mobile, PSBank Online, or visit your nearest PSBank branch. For more information on PSBank's products and services, visit psbank.com.ph or follow PSBank on Facebook and Instagram.

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Shell Empowers Young Filipinos with Disaster Preparedness Through Innovative Board Game

Shell Empowers Young Filipinos with Disaster Preparedness Through Innovative Board Game

Students in these cities are engaging in a unique learning experience that teaches them the importance of proper disaster response. . "Master of Disaster" (MOD), an innovative board game developed by Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST), is being utilized to equip the next generation with essential disaster preparedness knowledge and skills. MOD emphasizes the value of “bayanihan”, the Filipino spirit of communal unity and cooperation, by working together to support one another during simulated scenarios.

Building upon the success of the initial phase, which reached over 81,000 students and more than 300 teachers, Year 2 of the project will expand to 20 schools in Cagayan de Oro City. "By empowering children with the knowledge and skills to navigate challenging situations, we can foster resilience within communities and better protect them during times of calamities." stated Serge Bernal, Shell Pilipinas Vice President for Corporate Relations.

The MOD game has garnered enthusiastic feedback from both students and educators. One Libjo Elementary School student remarked, "Playing MOD improves our social skills and teaches us to work together and escape disasters." A teacher from Tabangao Elementary School echoed this sentiment, stating, "The MOD rollout was very interesting. It motivated the students to learn about disasters."

Pilipinas Shell, with its long history of commitment to community development and safety, believes that investing in the education of young Filipinos is crucial for building a more resilient and disaster-prepared nation.

Shell remains committed to empowering communities through innovative partnerships that build resilience and preparedness for a safer future.

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VFS Global Leverages SAP Software to Power Digital Cross-Border Mobility

VFS Global Leverages SAP Software to Power Digital Cross-Border Mobility

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

Christian Klein and Zubin Karkaria in New York, highlighting VFS Global's decision to leverage SAP software for enhancing digital transformation and supporting governments and travellers worldwide.

SAP SE (NYSE: SAP) today announced that VFS Global, the world-leading provider of visa, consular and technology services to governments and diplomatic missions, will leverage SAP software to help it develop leading-edge AI-powered digital solutions for cross-border mobility and citizen services.

Cross-border mobility and citizen services are becoming increasingly digital, and governments are looking into the use of innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence to drive efficiency and sovereign security. To accelerate its innovation road map and help governments meet the increasingly complex needs of travelers and citizens, VFS Global is adopting SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition and other SAP solutions.

“We take great pride in partnering with SAP as a leading and trusted technology and AI company,” said Zubin Karkaria, founder and CEO of VFS Global. “By combining our deep expertise in visa, consular and citizen services with SAP’s world-class solutions, we empower governments to enhance efficiency, strengthen security and enable seamless mobility for millions of travelers around the world.”

“With SAP solutions at its core, VFS will be able to leverage the latest innovations to become an even stronger partner for governments, travelers and citizens worldwide,” said Christian Klein, CEO of SAP SE.

In line with its vision to embrace technological innovation to support governments and diplomatic missions worldwide, VFS Global has also chosen SAP Business Technology Platform and the SAP Business Data Cloud solution to deliver leading-edge and AI-powered solutions to its customers and to drive operational excellence across its global operations.

“By combining the strengths of VFS Global and SAP, we are elevating cross-border mobility and citizen services to the next level”, said Michael Nilles, member of the VFS executive board and chief digital and technology officer. "Strategically, this positions us as a leading force in shaping the future of GovTech and TravelTech, powered by technology and AI innovations that benefit governments, travelers and citizens worldwide," he added.

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Palo Alto Networks Encourages Voter Vigilance as AI Threatens Digital Trust Ahead of 2025 Elections

Palo Alto Networks Encourages Voter Vigilance as AI Threatens Digital Trust Ahead of 2025 Elections

As the 2025 midterm elections approach, the Philippines’ digital landscape faces growing vulnerability to disinformation tactics from bad actors seeking to manipulate public perception. Amplifying this risk is the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI), which introduces new levels of realism and precision that demand heightened vigilance, especially during major national events when public reliance on digital platforms surges.

There has been a surge in deepfake content in the country, with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) reporting that it monitors 200 to 300 deepfake incidents daily in the Philippines. In the lead-up to the elections, such sophisticated disinformation poses a serious risk to public trust and informed decision-making. Often integrated into broader social engineering campaigns, these tactics exploit trust and urgency to mislead individuals into sharing, believing, or acting on false information.

As Filipino voters prepare to head to the polls, Palo Alto Networks, the world’s leading AI cybersecurity company, shares practical recommendations to help individuals stay vigilant and protect themselves online amid heightened digital activity during the election period.

● Evaluate Digital Content Critically. As AI-generated content online becomes increasingly sophisticated, voters should assess the credibility of sources and verify information across multiple trusted channels before engaging or sharing.

● Be Cautious of Suspicious Messages. Phishing remains a top tactic for threat actors. Messages requesting personal details, containing strange links, or urging immediate action should raise red flags. Always verify the authenticity of these communications through trusted channels.

● Secure Personal Accounts with Multi-Factor Authentication. Voters are advised to strengthen the security of their personal accounts by enabling multi-factor authentication. This extra layer of security helps prevent unauthorized access, identity theft, data breaches, or misuse of private information.

● Verify Website Authenticity. Deceptive websites often impersonate official government platforms to mislead users. Always inspect web addresses, ensuring they use legitimate domains to avoid engaging with links from unfamiliar or unverified sources.

● Adopt a Zero Trust Mindset. As AI-driven threats become more convincing, voters should treat every message, link, and request with caution. Verify authenticity before engaging and keep devices updated to reduce exposure to evolving risks.

“Election periods heighten digital activity and open the door to more sophisticated, AI-driven threats,” said Steven Scheurmann, Regional Vice President for ASEAN at Palo Alto Networks. “What’s different today is the precision, scale, and speed at which disinformation can spread. Deepfakes and phishing scams are no longer obvious or amateur — they’re targeted, realistic, and timed to exploit moments of national significance. In this environment, every voter becomes a potential target. Proactive cyber hygiene isn’t just about personal safety anymore; it’s about protecting democratic trust at scale. We all have a role to play in strengthening the integrity of our digital way of life.”

The election period puts additional strain on digital spaces where information is exchanged. With AI accelerating the speed and scale of online activity, distinguishing between legitimate content and manipulation becomes increasingly challenging—and increasingly important.

This period underscores the need for shared responsibility, where platforms, institutions, and individuals all play a role in safeguarding the integrity of digital spaces. In an online environment shaped by speed and sophistication, the ability to pause, assess, and respond wisely has never been more crucial.

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Schneider Electric kicks off the year with significant sustainability milestones, exceeds 2024 target

Schneider Electric kicks off the year with significant sustainability milestones, exceeds 2024 target

Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, announced that its Schneider Sustainability Impact (SSI) program achieved a score of 7.95 out of 10 for the first quarter of 2025, towards a target of 8.80/10 by the end of the year.

Recognized as the world’s most sustainable corporation by Corporate Knights, Schneider Electric continues to make significant strides towards its sustainability goals as it enters the final year of its current SSI program. The company also recently published details of its sustainability performance for the final quarter of 2024, alongside its full-year financial results. The company’s SSI score for 2024 reached 7.55 out of 10, surpassing the end-year target of 7.40. Monitoring and reporting on the 11 global commitments of its SSI’s quarterly progress remains essential to achieving the company’s goals across all dimensions of environmental, social, and governance (ESG).

SSI is the company’s framework for measuring sustainability progress, aligned with its business strategy. Performance is tracked against a 2020 baseline, with some programs using adjusted baselines due to COVID-19. SSI scores progress on a 10-point scale, where the 2025 target equals 10/10, and the base year is 3/10. Scores are calculated per key performance indicator, averaged equally (excluding Local Commitment), and externally audited annually. In 2024, SSI #8 received "reasonable" assurance.

“In 2024, Schneider Electric was recognized by TIME and Statista as the World’s Most Sustainable Company. Earlier this year, we were honored to receive the same recognition from Corporate Knights as part of its Global 100 ranking – marking our second time topping this list and a first for any corporation. These remarkable achievements, alongside other key ESG recognitions inspire us to reach even greater heights in 2025,” said Chris Leong, Chief Sustainability Officer at Schneider Electric. “As we enter the final year of our Sustainability Impact program, we are determined to continue transforming ambition into action. There's still work ahead, but with the support of our extensive ecosystem, our people, and all our Impact Makers, we will succeed.”

In Q1 2025, Schneider Electric helped customers save and avoid nearly 700 million tonnes of CO₂ through its solutions. Since 2018, its energy-saving technologies have enabled 679 million tonnes in avoided emissions. It also achieved a 42% emissions cut from its top 1,000 suppliers through energy efficiency and renewables under the Zero Carbon Project.

Schneider Electric’s suppliers uphold decent work standards, with compliance rising from 21% in 2023 to 63% in 2024. Exceeding its SSI goal ahead of schedule, Schneider has provided clean electricity to 53.4 million people and trained 824,000+ individuals in energy management, nearing its 1 million target by 2025. Through its Youth Education & Entrepreneurship program, Schneider equips young people with skills for sustainable careers.

In addition to these accomplishments, for the 14th consecutive year, Schneider Electric has been included in the Dow Jones Best-in-Class World Index, achieved a place on CDP’s A list, and earned a AAA rating from MSCI ESG. Its latest score from EcoVadis also secured a Platinum medal.

“At Schneider, we believe in strong partnerships with corporations, governments, local partners, and communities to uplift livelihoods, boost incomes, and expand access to education and reliable, clean energy,” added Leong. “I'm especially proud of our people’s relentless pursuit to turn ambition into action, from innovating solutions for environmental impact to giving back to our communities. Together, we’re making progress and sustainability a reality for all.”

For further insights on Schneider’s Sustainability Impact program, explore Schneider Electric's Q4 and Q1 2025 reports featuring detailed progress dashboards.

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I am MAD debuts ‘Powered by Volunteer15m,’ marks 100th outreach

I am MAD debuts ‘Powered by Volunteer15m,’ marks 100th outreach

'I am Powered by Volunteer15m' launch during MAD Meet Annual Volunteer Reunion & Anniversary Celebration in Baguio City.

I am MAD (Making A Difference) Volunteers, Inc., a volunteer-powered nonprofit, marked its 15th year with a meaningful return to Baguio City, where its journey began. The MAD Meet Annual Volunteer Reunion & Anniversary Celebration featured the launch of its newest campaign, ‘I am Powered by Volunteer15m – I am MAD: 15 Years of Heartfelt M15sion.’

This year’s theme, “I am Powered by Volunteer15m,” celebrates the unwavering spirit that fuels every outreach. It’s a tribute to the passion, commitment, and love of every volunteer who powers its mission to make a difference in the lives of Filipino children and communities.

The gathering became a full-circle moment for founders Maco Ravanzo and Christian Marx Rivero, who first conceptualized I am MAD in 2009 amid the cool breeze and pine-lined streets of Baguio. From just two passionate volunteers, the organization has since evolved into a nationwide movement with nearly 1,000 active “MADmates” dedicated to reaching underserved communities across the Philippines.

“What began as a simple dream has grown into a thriving community of changemakers,” Ravanzo shared. “Being back here with our volunteers is a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come—and the greater impact we can still create together.”

Honoring Beacons of Volunteerism and breaking new ground

As part of the celebration, I am MAD honored 15 exceptional volunteer leaders with the ‘Alab ng Puso’ Beacon of Volunteerism Award, a special tribute to their selfless contributions over the years. The awardees were Ramona Rivero, Raymark Estael, Big Jay Lagang, Jake Villanueva, Ruth Dağli, Kevin Conrad Tansiongco, Erwin Dela Cruz, Mayo Ceazar Mendoza, John Martin Recio, Lester Lim, Julian Robert Obamos, Carmela Magbanua, Ymari Kristia Pascua, Ralph Laurence Manubay, and Lyman Hansel Gerona.

The event also recognized the dream team leaders behind last year’s outreach efforts with individual and group citations, celebrating their vital role in executing I am MAD’s 2024 programs and events. Other major milestones included the onboarding of 63 new volunteers and the launch of new initiatives that reached entire communities for the first time. Notably, I am MAD expanded its school outreach in Rizal and Palawan, supporting two schools per province—a first in its history.

A special highlight of the evening was a powerful cultural performance by the Uschong Cultural Ensemble, showcasing the richness of local heritage and community spirit. The celebration culminated in an emotional tribute to the founders, who were surprised with photo memorabilia and words of deep appreciation from fellow volunteers.

MAD Meet Cordillera 2025 was organized and hosted by MADmates from Rizal and made possible through the generous support of Power Mac Center / The Loop, FH Commercial, The Dağli, OK Custom Gifts, The Engravers, Creative ADOBO, KFC, Fudgy and Pepper, and MMA Jr.

100th outreach to build next-gen volunteer leaders

I am MAD also celebrated a historic milestone with its 100th MAD Camp, held in the upland village of Barangay Puguil, Santol, La Union. The three-day outreach, which also served as the 2nd Builders Camp after 10 years, brought together around 40 children and dozens of volunteers for a weekend of values formation, storytelling, and community bonding at Liguay Elementary School.

Beyond outreach, the Builders Camp doubled as an immersive training ground for aspiring volunteer leaders: Aldrine Anzures, Anna Ricka Nacasabog, Beezus Abesamis, Emmanuelle Jasper Relativo, Heini Borromeo, Jahnnela Faith Bonilla, Jalilah Sarip, Lourielaine Garcia, Marco Sayas, and Michelle Del Rosario. Carefully selected from over a hundred applicants, these emerging “builders” received free training on both the technical and relational aspects of running a MAD Camp. They gained hands-on experience in program facilitation, logistics, and community engagement. Senior volunteers also played a key role, offering inspiration, mentorship, and behind-the-scenes support—equipping the next wave of changemakers with both heart and skill.

Despite the steep terrain and rough roads, volunteers arrived with full hearts and a shared mission: to uplift lives in underserved areas. Signature segments like MAD Talks Padayon created safe spaces for healing and reflection, with a message that resonated deeply: “Do it because God allows you to do it.”

Local officials, including La Union Governor Rafy Ortega-David, lauded the initiative and pledged continued support to improve access and infrastructure in remote communities like Puguil.

Join the mission to make a difference

The ‘I am Powered by Volunteer15m’ campaign invites more Filipinos to be part of a growing mission of hope, service, and change.

Registration is now open for MAD Camp, the organization’s flagship outreach volunteer program that focuses on values formation, education, and community-building for children aged 10 to 12. Camps are scheduled this year in Marinduque, Masbate, Surigao del Sur, Capiz, Zambales, Camarines Sur, Davao del Sur, and Davao Occidental. As part of the campaign launch, I am MAD is releasing a music video to inspire youth and professionals to get involved. Sign up at bit.ly/MADcamp2025reg.

Each MAD Camp is powered by BIDA Eskwela (Bigay Ayuda para sa Eskwela), a fundraising drive that provides every child with a “Bag of Dreams”—school supplies and tokens of encouragement. Support the cause by donating at bit.ly/bidadonate.

To learn more, volunteer, or explore partnerships, visit fb.com/IamMakingADifference or email iammadph@gmail.com.

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Empowering Dreams: FWD x JA SparktheDream Celebrates Financial Literacy and Youth Entrepreneurship

Empowering Dreams: FWD x JA SparktheDream Celebrates Financial Literacy and Youth Entrepreneurship

FWD Life Insurance and JA Philippines successfully concluded the FWD x JA SparktheDream: Igniting Success, Celebrating Excellence event at the FWD Office in Bonifacio Global City. This inspiring gathering celebrated the achievements of the JA SparktheDream program, which equipped thousands of young students with essential financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills.

A total of 8,822 students from Albay, Bulacan, Pasay City, and Mandaluyong have been empowered through this initiative, setting a solid foundation for responsible financial decision-making.

“As the insurer of the next generation, we believe in empowering young minds to take charge of their future. Through JA SparktheDream, we have equipped students with essential financial literacy knowledge at an early age, shaping future leaders and entrepreneurs who can make a positive impact in their communities,” shared Arnolfo de Leon, Chief Agency Officer at FWD Life Insurance.

The event honored key partners from the Department of Education, recognizing their unwavering support in making the program a success. Dedicated FWD volunteers were also acknowledged for their contributions to mentoring and guiding students through their financial literacy journey.

“JA SparktheDream equips thousands of public school students with financial literacy, fostering a future of responsible Filipinos. In partnership with FWD Life Insurance and JA Philippines, we empower students to make a lasting community impact.” said Asec. Georgina Ann H. Yang, Assistant Secretary for External Partnerships and International Cooperation, Department of Education

A highlight of the event was the JA SparktheDream Business Plan Competition, which showcased the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of young participants. Winning teams such as YES Crafty Bookmarks (Abangan Sur Elementary School, Albay) and Twin Burgers (Malilipot Central School, Albay) demonstrated exceptional innovation and dedication to their craft.

“Financial literacy is a fundamental skill that empowers young individuals to make informed decisions about their future,” said Krishna Alejandrino, Executive Director of JA Philippines. “Through JA SparktheDream, we are equipping students with the knowledge and confidence to turn their aspirations into reality, fostering a generation of financially responsible and entrepreneurial Filipinos.”

The FWD x JA SparktheDream event was not just a celebration of success but a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and partnership in shaping a financially empowered future.

Looking ahead, JA Philippines is set to host the JA ItsMyDream Bazaar on May 8-9, 2025, at Glorietta 1, where young entrepreneurs from the Alternative Learning System (ALS) programs in Mandaluyong and Pasay will present their innovative business ideas.

For more updates, follow @ja_philippines and @fwdlife_ph on social media.

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