SOCIAL MEDIA

PLDT Enterprise Empowers Philippine Industries with Robust and Future-Ready 5G Mobile Private Networks

Wednesday, July 30, 2025

As industries accelerate their digital transformation, the need for secure, scalable, and high-performance connectivity has become more critical than ever. PLDT Enterprise is leading the charge in bringing advanced 5G Mobile Private Networks (MPN) to the Philippine market, pioneering innovations that boost efficiency, drive automation, and deliver reliable connectivity across key sectors.

Backed by a strong network infrastructure and strategic alliances with global technology leaders, PLDT Enterprise is reinforcing its position as the trusted partner for enterprises leveraging 5G MPN to improve operations, enhance security, and drive new revenue opportunities.

Revolutionizing Industries with 5G MPN

5G MPN is set to transform industries by providing dedicated, ultra-reliable, and low-latency connectivity tailored for mission-critical applications. It provides enterprises with full control over their network environment, ensuring optimized performance and enhanced cybersecurity.

Through its strategic initiatives, PLDT Enterprise is actively exploring 5G MPN applications in areas such as:

Banking and Financial Services – Strengthening cybersecurity and fraud prevention through secure and seamless authentication.

E-Commerce and Retail – Enabling real-time data analytics, smart inventory systems, and frictionless transactions.

Manufacturing and Logistics – Powering automation, robotics, and IoT operations to streamline production and supply chains.

Smart Cities and the Public Sector – Enhancing public safety, traffic management, and government digitalization.

John Gonzales, First Vice President and Head of Enterprise Consulting Services and Technology Management at PLDT Enterprise, emphasized the company’s vision for 5G MPN, “We recognize that enterprises require more than just connectivity—they need intelligent, secure, and highly customizable network solutions that support their digital transformation goals. With our expertise in 5G and Mobile Private Networks, we are not only future-proofing businesses but also strengthening the country’s overall digital ecosystem.”

A Holistic Approach to 5G Leadership

PLDT Enterprise’s innovation extends beyond connectivity. Its parent company PLDT is actively collaborating with industry leaders to develop a holistic 5G ecosystem that integrates:

5G Slicing – supporting ultra-low latency services like video analytics, remote diagnostics, and real-time monitoring.

Network APIs – giving businesses programmable network capabilities to build and scale digital solutions.

AI and Automation – driving smarter decision-making through predictive analytics and machine learning models.

Beyond connectivity, PLDT Enterprise solutions are also enabled by the capabilities of ePLDT, the PLDT Group’s ICT subsidiary, and VITRO Inc, its data center arm.

As 5G capabilities continue to expand, VITRO Sta. Rosa (VSR), the country’s first AI-ready hyperscale data center, with its AI-ready infrastructure and diverse network connectivity, is a cornerstone of this strategy – supporting 5G and AI integration with edge computing, hybrid orchestration, and centralized network analytics.

In addition, VITRO’s network of strategically located data center facilities offer not only infrastructure and network resilience, but also a multi-site setup that ensures operational continuity.

Meanwhile, ePLDT delivers tailored multi-cloud and cybersecurity solutions, that safeguard enterprise data and applications while optimizing operational efficiency. Its portfolio also includes cloud and AI-powered services that enable intelligent automation, real-time threat detection, and data-driven decision-making—helping enterprises fully maximize the capabilities of 5G MPN.

Together, these technologies provide enterprises with a fully integrated digital ecosystem, reinforcing PLDT Enterprise’s leadership in next-generation business solutions.

Strengthening the Future of 5G MPN in the Philippines

As global demand for private 5G networks surges, PLDT Enterprise remains at the forefront of enabling businesses to harness the power of 5G MPN. The company continues to pioneer network innovations, coupled with its customer-centric approach, positions it as the premiere partner for enterprises looking to navigate the future of connectivity.
To learn more about PLDT Enterprise's digital solutions, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-5g-mpn-pr
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FWD-JA Philippines partnership joins Brigada Eskwela 2025 in community-driven school preparation


The Regional Kick-Off for Brigada Eskwela 2025 was held on June 9, 2025, at Jose Rizal Elementary School with the attendance of distinguished leaders including DepEd NCR Regional Director Asec. Jocelyn DR Andaya, Assistant Regional Director Joel Torrecampo, Pasay City Mayor Hon. Imelda Calixto-Rubiano, and guest of honor Assistant Secretary Nilo L. Rosas.

Adding depth to the program was the partnership between FWD Philippines and Junior Achievement Philippines. JA SparktheDream program has reached 14,601 students since inception in 2023. while its JA It's My Dream has equipped 600 out-of-school youth with entrepreneurship skills and financial literacy capabilities.


In attendance at the event were Alternative Learning System (ALS) students from Pasay who participated in this year’s JA It's My Dream program. These students established food stalls during the event, confidently engaging with attendees and managing their operations. Their smooth operation showcased the entrepreneurial foundation and practical business skills they developed through the program, demonstrating actual application of skills and adaptability in a real-world environment.

As the insurer of the next generation, FWD Philippines reiterates its commitment to empowering Filipino youth with practical financial literacy programs, promoting a mindset shift enabling them to take charge of their own lives and be positive agents of change in their communities. By nurturing young minds and equipping them with the tools to dream boldly and execute wisely, FWD actively contributes to a generation that is not only ready for the future but also prepared to shape and lead it.


The participation of the ALS students embodied the spirit of Brigada Eskwela, which is primarily bringing the community together to support education. Their booths became focal points of inspiration, demonstrating the tangible results of investing in youth development. These young entrepreneurs showed how community partnerships and bayanihan can develop individuals with practical skills that prepare them not just for the classroom, but for meaningful contribution to their communities.

For more updates, follow @ja_philippines and @fwdlife_ph on social media.
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From Survival to Opportunity: Borrowing in a Time of Stability


How Responsible Lending Can Open Doors for Filipinos

For many Filipinos, borrowing money has long been a way to get through tough times. It can help to pay for food, tuition, medicine, or bills when income falls short. These needs remain real and urgent. But as the economy shows signs of stability, it’s also time to ask: Can loans be more than just a last resort?

According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ latest Lending Trends and Practices Report (Q1 2025), the majority of borrowers still take out loans to address daily expenses and emergencies. However, the same report notes a rising awareness of credit’s potential for "asset-building" and "productive use.” This is a good sign that the mindset around borrowing may slowly be shifting.

While uncertainty still lingers such as job security and rising household expenses, the easing of inflationary pressures has provided a window for more Filipinos to breathe and think beyond survival. As financial tools become more accessible and borrowing options more transparent, there’s a growing opportunity to reshape the narrative: borrowing not just to survive, but to grow.

Turning Loans into Livelihoods

For many aspiring entrepreneurs, the biggest hurdle is the capital. A small loan can help cover the initial costs of starting a microbusiness, whether that’s a sari-sari store, a food cart, or an online reselling venture. These small-scale businesses don’t require large investments, but they do need a starting fund for inventory, equipment, or basic supplies. With a bit of capital, a side hustle can grow into a steady income stream.

As digital platforms and informal marketplaces grow, so do opportunities for self-employment. From local food delivery to secondhand goods and mobile e-loading, borrowers now have more ways to put their loans to productive use. When borrowing is done responsibly, it can empower individuals to take control of their livelihood, and lay the foundation for future financial independence.

Investing in Skills for Long-Term Growth

Borrowing can also be a stepping stone to personal and professional development. Short courses or training programs in areas like project management, digital marketing, bookkeeping, or even welding can open doors to better job opportunities or freelance work. The upfront cost may feel intimidating, but a loan can help bridge that gap as they can turn education into a long-term asset.

With more online learning options and flexible certification programs available, improving or unlocking skills can further lead to a higher-paying and more stable work. Loans, when used with purpose, can help Filipinos build careers that offer both dignity and growth.

Using Credit to Improve Quality of Life

While some use loans to increase income, others use them to create a more secure and comfortable home life. This could mean buying a secondhand appliance to replace a broken one, covering tuition to keep kids in school, or funding repairs that make a house safer and more livable. These aren’t luxury expenses but they’re steps toward building a better, more stable life.

Credit can also help individuals bridge seasonal gaps in cash flow, especially for workers with irregular income or small business owners during lean months. By easing short-term strain, loans can help people avoid riskier financial alternatives like pawning valuables or relying on informal lenders.

As more Filipinos explore the idea of borrowing to grow, reliable credit becomes even more important. Digital lenders like JuanHand offer a convenient and accessible way to borrow, especially for those who may not qualify for traditional bank loans. With just a smartphone, borrowers can apply, get approved, and receive funds, often within minutes, thanks to the ease of minimal requirements, no long lines, and a judgment-free process. When paired with clear terms and financial education tools, online lending can become more than a quick fix; it can be a stepping stone toward personal progress and financial empowerment.
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AIA Philippines Bags Three Major Wins at Insurance Asia Awards 2025

Sunday, July 27, 2025



AIA Philippines Life and General Insurance Company Inc. (AIA Philippines), formerly Philam Life and now the domestic arm of Hong Kong-based insurer AIA, took home three major accolades at the Insurance Asia Awards 2025, a regional awards program that recognizes the most outstanding insurance companies across Asia.

The life insurer was recognized for two of its digital innovations—iRecruit and PamilyaProtect—and was also awarded Employee Engagement Initiative of the Year. The wins reflect AIA Philippines’ strong push to expand access to protection, enhance the customer, distributor and employee experience, and build a more connected, purpose-driven organization.

Modernizing recruitment with iRecruit

AIA Philippines was recognized for iRecruit, its digital recruitment platform built to enhance the way it brings in agency talent, as Digital Transformation Initiative of the Year. The platform iRecruit allows the company to attract, license, and onboard financial advisors much faster and with a better candidate experience.

“Our digital recruitment platform is built to simplify and accelerate our recruitment processes. Designed with both recruiters and candidates in mind, iRecruit enables seamless end-to-end recruitment—from candidate sourcing and profiling to onboarding—all in one intuitive interface,” said Melita Teo, President and CEO, AIA Philippines. “With iRecruit, we’ve also allowed our teams to dedicate more time to meaningful relationship-building and comprehensive support for new advisors.”

iRecruit covers the entire candidate journey, from pre-licensing to onboarding, and includes a centralized content hub, automated compliance updates, and smart workflows powered by machine learning. This is one of the ways AIA Philippines is using technology not just to improve efficiency, but also to make meaningful human interactions easier.

Breaking barriers with PamilyaProtect

BPI AIA Life Assurance Corporation (BPI AIA), the strategic alliance between the Bank of the Philippine Islands and AIA Philippines, also won for PamilyaProtect, a fully digital, mobile-first life insurance product. It was named Digital Insurance Initiative of the Year by Insurance Asia.

“PamilyaProtect was created to break down the usual barriers, price, complexity, and inaccessibility,” said Teo. “We wanted to offer a simple, affordable option for families who may not have considered insurance before. This recognition tells us we’re on the right track.”

Launched through Facebook Messenger and now available via a dedicated e-commerce site, BPI AIA’s PamilyaProtect is designed for mobile-first access, with a fast, paperless application process and easy-to-understand benefits. Premiums start at just PHP 417 per year, with coverage of up to PHP 2 million, plus accidental death, disability, and hospital confinement benefits. The platform was built to make insurance approachable, even for first-time users, and has helped BPI AIA reach more Filipinos in underserved communities.

Cultivating a people-first culture that delivers

Rounding out its wins, AIA Philippines was awarded Employee Engagement Initiative of the Year for its commitment to building a workplace where employees feel supported, heard, and empowered.

“At AIA Philippines, employee engagement means showing up not just to work—but to make a difference,” said Ellen Imasa, Chief Human Resources Officer, AIA Philippines. “This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to building a culture where every employee feels empowered, valued, and connected to a greater purpose. By investing in their growth, well-being, and sense of belonging, we enable our people to thrive and bring the best version of themselves at work.”

The company’s approach to employee engagement brings together a wide range of initiatives that strengthen culture, collaboration and shared identity across teams. Programs under Grow@AIA support learning and leadership development. AIA Philippines also invests in employee well-being through its Wellbeing@AIA framework; physical activity programs like the AIA League, and financial wellness initiatives. The results speak for themselves: higher employee satisfaction, stronger engagement, and recognition as one of the best places to work in the industry.

With this triple win, AIA continues to lead with purpose, leveraging technology to serve customers better, while fostering a culture where people and innovation thrive. As a strong and unified organization under One AIA — comprising AIA Philippines, BPI AIA, AIA Investment Management, and MediCard — AIA offers comprehensive and integrated solutions that address the health, life protection, savings, retirement, and investment needs of Filipinos, empowering them to live healthier, longer, better lives.

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Appdome Launches IDAnchor™, the First Customer Identity Protection Solution for the Mobile Economy


Appdome, the leader in protecting mobile businesses, today announced IDAnchor™, the industry’s first Customer Identity Protection (CIP) solution for the mobile economy. IDAnchor fingerprints each release, installation, and device used to access, log in, and generate transactions in a mobile app. It combines this immutable chain of trust with real-time threat signals to bring sign-in alerts and unrecognized device notifications to every mobile app in the world and create a perimeter defense around Identity Verification (IDV), Customer Identity & Access Management (CIAM), and other services in mobile apps.

“Mobile brands have learned the hard way that successful authentication doesn’t mean there’s a trusted identity, engagement, or transaction in an app,” said Tom Tovar, Co-Creator of Appdome. “They also want the ability to tell when there’s unauthorized activity on an unrecognized device, application, or installation. IDAnchor solves all these challenges easily.”

What is Customer Identity Protection?

Customer Identity Protection (CIP) is the missing link needed to strengthen biometric authentication, CIAM, and IDV in mobile apps. By adding a perimeter defense around identity assertions in a mobile app, CIP ensures that no part of the value chain – the mobile app, installation, or device – has been compromised or impersonated during login, authentication, engagement, or purchasing in mobile apps.

Mobile apps and identity products often assume the integrity of the mobile environment when creating, verifying, or using customer identities in mobile apps. However, fake or compromised devices, operating systems, and accounts, as well as malware-controlled sessions, can undermine signal fidelity from the mobile environment, giving fraudsters the upper hand. CIP monitors the source of each customer identity while it’s being used by the application, installation, device, or user. Customer Identity Protection detects if any part of that value chain has been compromised or impersonated, or if there are any signs of on-device threat staging, manipulation, spyware, and other risks that can compromise biometric authentication, CIAM, IDV, Ad Attribution, and other processes in a mobile app.

IDAnchor™ is CIP for Mobile Apps

Unlike static and ephemeral device binding, IDAnchor™ creates a living, cryptographically bound, tamper-resistant chain of trust that spans the entire mobile app lifecycle. IDAnchor fingerprints the mobile DevOps workspace and each app release, installation, device, and session to enable mobile brands to bind customer identity from the point of origin, through the distribution chain, to user acquisition and use in a mobile app.

Each IDAnchor fingerprint is securely stored and built to persist across device resets, app re-installs, OS updates, and sophisticated evasion techniques, including device cloning, app spoofing, Trojan installations, and threats that target customer identity in mobile apps. If, at any time, the chain of trust is broken, brands know customer identity is at risk.

Mobile brands can now offer their users the same powerful, real-time “Is this you?” sign-in alerts made famous across Apple and Google applications. Detect sign-ins or identity assertions from unrecognized devices, apps, or installs and trigger real-time responses like user-facing alerts, step-up authentication, or session blocks. From mobile banking to social, healthcare, and ride-sharing apps, Appdome makes it possible for every mobile brand to own the ATO moment and protect users with confidence.

“IDAnchor gives brands a dynamic way to know if the source of the identity assertion can be trusted and if the user’s device, instance and environment are real, the same, unaltered, and uncompromised before, during, and after calling any identity-based service,” said Avi Yehuda, Co-Creator and CTO of Appdome.

Built-In Threat Signals for Identity Assurance

IDAnchor combines real-time threat signals with the chain of trust to solve a wide range of mobile threats, including:

  • Deepfake attacks used on alternative or compromised devices.
  • KYC fraud and fake account creation on synthetic, cloned, or altered mobile devices.
  • Install/re-install abuse for inflating ad campaign metrics.
  • Emulator farms that mimic real user engagement and devices.
  • Loyalty and referral abuse from GAID/IDFA and device resets.
  • Social engineering scams where users are tricked into installing Trojan versions of legitimate apps.
  • Geo-fraud carried out through location spoofing, fake GPS apps, VPNs, IP cycling, and other techniques.
  • Transaction and On-Device Fraud carried out by attackers using fake devices, synthetic identities, and stolen credentials.

“Without CIP, anyone or anything could successfully authenticate or engage inside an app,” said Chris Roeckl, Chief Product Officer at Appdome. “With IDAnchor™, brands can detect the full range of fraud, ATOs, and scams and get the true device attributes being used in each session.”

IDAnchor™ Feature Overview

Key features and capabilities include:

DevOps Workspace Fingerprint – Appdome runs in DevOps. IDAnchor uses the DevOps environment to create a trusted root identifier for the mobile app.

App Release Fingerprint – Unique Mobile App Release IDs do not change or reset based on device or install. No User Opt-Out.

App Install Fingerprint – Each Mobile App Installation ID resets on update or upgrade. No User Opt-Out.

Mobile Device Fingerprint – IDAnchor™ creates a unique and immutable Mobile Device ID for Android & iOS Devices. No reset. No User Opt-Out.

True Device Attributes – With each payload, IDAnchor provides the true device attributes for each mobile device.

Prevent Device Spoofing – Prevents modified or impersonated device attributes and bypassing probabilistic Device Identity systems.

Prevent Vendor ID Spoofing – Prevents tampering with or rotating unique device identifiers that attribution systems or apps rely on to track installs, users, and fraud.

Prevent Advertiser ID Cycling – Prevents attackers from rotating GAID/IDFA values to appear as unique users per fraud event.

Protect Google/Apple Advertising ID – Monitor Google/Apple’s advertiser IDs for signs of manipulation, reuse, or substitution.

Detect IDAnchor™ Manipulation Attempt – Send threat data and telemetry if attackers target IDAnchor™.

Threat Signal Intelligence – Send threat data and telemetry on 400+ attack vectors including deepfakes, device spoofing, device manipulation, RCE, RAT, ATS Malware, social engineering scams, IT scams, phishing, quishing, smishing, geo-fraud and other attacks.

"Identity is the new perimeter,” said Eric Newcomer, Analyst at Intellyx. “Customer Identity Protection is more important than ever, given the advances in AI deepfakes, the rise of identity spoofing, and the use of mobile devices as an attack vector. IDAnchor from Appdome strengthens the value of CIAM, IDV and Ad Attribution by tracking the true identity of the applications and devices connecting to enterprise services.”

IDAnchor Availability

IDAnchor™ is available now for all Android and iOS applications. Mobile brands can use and evaluate IDAnchor fingerprints in the app, via an on-premise server, or cloud service.

To get a live demonstration of IDAnchor, visit Appdome at the Black Hat conference Aug. 6 and 7 in Las Vegas at Appdome’s booth (#4746). Or visit the Appdome website to learn more about Appdome IDAnchor™ and Customer Identity Protection.
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Vista Land Celebrates Condominium Completion with Property Turnovers at Hawthorne Heights and Scala

Saturday, July 26, 2025


Vista Land, the Philippines' leading integrated property developer, recently marked a significant milestone for two of its high-rise developments with the condominium turnover of Hawthorne Heights along Katipunan Avenue in Quezon City and Diana by Scala, an award-winning prime Vista Estates development in Taguig City.


Hawthorne Heights represents the 100th high-rise development in the extensive portfolio of Vista Land.

The event was designed to ensure new homeowners experience not just the joy of moving in, but also the confidence of knowing that every aspect of the handover is fully supported by the deep understanding and expertise of the Philippine real estate market leader. The program features presentations from AllHome, a one-stop shop for construction and home improvement needs, providing sensible yet stylish furnishing solutions to help homeowners transform their living spaces into their personalized sanctuaries.


Livwell, the leasing arm of Vista Land, was also present at the occasion, offering options to homeowners and investors who wish to maximize their properties through rental opportunities. To further assist new residents, comprehensive briefings were conducted by the Turnover Group and the Property Management Office. These sessions detailed essential move-in guidelines, condominium policies, and maintenance services to ensure a streamlined transition.


The ceremonial signing of turnover documents and the presentation of the turnover kit are meaningful symbols of trust and recognition between Vista Land and the new residents, who receive not only access to a condominium property but also entry into vertical communities that support comfort, convenience, and connectivity. The occasion culminated in a photo opportunity with the residents, capturing smiles of pride and excitement that marked the beginning of their homeownership journey.

Excellence and innovation in condominium properties

With a diverse portfolio ranging from opulent hideaways to value-for-money homes, Vista Land anticipates the diverse needs of local and international real estate markets. Its high-rise developments, in particular, are strategically located near central business districts, transportation hubs, and educational institutions, making them attractive for homebuyers and investors.


The continued trust in Vista Land is founded on its reputation for reliability, growth potential, and ability to offer condominium properties in premium locations. These high-rise developments ensure convenience for residents, granting easy access to state-of-the-art amenities and round-the-clock security features while providing substantial investment returns through capital appreciation and rental income.

Urban living through vertical communities

With rapid population growth and the expansion of commercial and business districts, the need for space-efficient, well-connected housing solutions has become increasingly crucial in the capital region. Vista Land recognizes this shift and has adapted its strategy to meet the evolving needs of urban dwellers by highlighting condominium living as a key component of its operations.

By focusing on high-rise developments, Vista Land is responding to the limited land availability in Metro Manila and creating condominium properties that offer residents comfort and connectivity. Carefully crafted to provide secure environments and the practical needs of city life, the company creates spaces where residents can enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle while contributing to the progress of Metro Manila.

Vertical residences for the Filipinos of today

Vista Land believes that no one deserves fine residences in the best locations in the country more than Filipinos and their families. With a keen knowledge of their hopes, aspirations, and preferences, the Philippines' leading integrated property developer is building high-rise developments that provide the amenities and services that uphold Filipino sensibilities. The vertical communities also offer investment opportunities, as real estate often appreciates in value or leased to generate passive income.

For more information on Vista Land high-rise developments, visit www.vistaland.com.ph and follow @VistaLandAndLifescapesOfficial.

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100 Young Changemakers Empowered to Drive Social Impact Across ASEAN in eYAA: Cohort 5

Thursday, July 24, 2025


eYAA’s youth-driven initiatives have impacted over 89,000 people across ASEAN with support from 40 partner organisations.

Leading up to the ASEAN Day celebration on 8 August 2025, Maybank Foundation and ASEAN Foundation officially welcomed 100 youth volunteers and representatives from 10 civil society organisations (CSOs) and social enterprises (SEs) from across Southeast Asia at the Opening Ceremony of the latest Regional Capacity Building Workshop for eMpowering Youths Across ASEAN (eYAA): Cohort 5, held at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand.

The 100 selected youth volunteers, aged 19 to 35, came from ten ASEAN Member States and they bring with them diverse backgrounds, fresh ideas, and a strong spirit of volunteerism. They are paired with local CSOs and SEs selected for their deep knowledge of local challenges and their ability to help guide the youth-led projects on the ground.

Held from 20 to 23 July, the workshop brought together passionate young changemakers and their paired CSOs/SEs to finalise 10 community-based projects that will soon be implemented in Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Viet Nam, the newest country to join the programme. Building on online learning, the four-day regional gathering serves as a crucial space for participants to refine their community projects, learn from experts and alumni, and strengthen their collaboration skills, laying the groundwork for meaningful and lasting impact in the communities they are set to work in.

In his opening remarks, Tan Sri Dato' Sri Ir. Zamzamzairani Mohd Isa, Chairman of Maybank Group and Maybank Foundation said “Maybank through the eYAA programme in collaboration with ASEAN Foundation, remains steadfast to drive social empowerment by enabling young changemakers to create real impact, foster unity across cultures and build a more inclusive and resilient ASEAN community. We firmly believe that when given the right tools to succeed, our youth can be a constructive force for development. The power of youth lies not only in doing something great but also in uncovering their full potential and courage, enabling them to achieve meaningful things for the future.”


“We are incredibly excited to continue this journey with Maybank Foundation,” said Dr. Piti Srisangnam, Executive Director of the ASEAN Foundation. “This programme reminds us that youth are not just future leaders—they are leading change today. Through eYAA, we are taking real steps toward achieving the ASEAN Community Vision 2045—a region where youth are at the centre of building a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient Southeast Asia.”

The 10 community-based projects are designed to reflect local needs within the selected ASEAN countries and fall under four key focus areas: community building, arts and culture, environmental diversity, and education. Each team will receive up to USD 25,000 in grant support, and the local CSOs and SEs will play a crucial role in ensuring the success of the projects.

As part of Cohort 5, youth volunteers will support the “Paaralang Bukas Kalikasan” project by Curma Group Inc. in La Union, the Philippines. The program seeks to strengthen environmental literacy and nurture a culture of sustainable marine conservation in coastal communities. In areas where many families face limited access to information and resources for marine protection, communities continue to grapple with challenges such as overfishing, plastic pollution, and waste management. This initiative transforms local beaches and schools into experiential learning spaces, engaging students, teachers, and community members in real-world environmental education. Implemented across key locations, including the CURMA Center and five public high schools, the project directly benefits 50 youth ambassadors and over 1,000 individuals, while reaching an additional 2,000 members of the surrounding indigenous coastal communities. Through this holistic approach, the programme empowers local youth as environmental stewards and inspires community-led action to protect and sustain the region’s marine ecosystems.

Another initiative, the “Project Digital Horizon” by Espoir School of Life Inc., is being implemented in Siargao Island, Surigao Del Norte. This forward-looking initiative brings solar-powered educational technology to local schools through the establishment of E-Libraries, providing learners with access to a diverse collection of digital books, interactive learning modules, and AI-assisted literacy programs. By enhancing access to quality learning tools and supporting educators with modern resources, the project aims to complement existing teaching practices and promote more inclusive education. It directly benefits 300 learners, 20 teachers, 10 youth volunteers, and 200 community members across key sites such as Barangay Jamoyaon and Barangay San Jose Day Care Center. An estimated 700 others, including families of learners and surrounding residents, are expected to benefit indirectly. By combining renewable energy with digital innovation, “Project Digital Horizon” contributes to expanding learning opportunities and fostering educational equity in remote communities.

The Regional Capacity Building Workshop of eYAA: Cohort 5 was attended by H.E. Dr. Lalivan Karnchanachari, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand; Assistant Professor Dr. Sineenat Sermcheep, Executive Director of ASEAN Studies Centre; H.E. San Lwin, Deputy Secretary-General (DSG) of ASEAN for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC); H.E. Amb. Sitsangkhom Sisaketh, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the ASEAN Foundation and Permanent Representative of the Lao PDR to ASEAN; H.E. Amb. Sarah Al Bakri Devadason, Permanent Representative of Malaysia to ASEAN; H.E. Amb. Phantipha Iamsudha Ekarohit, Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Thailand to ASEAN; Tan Sri Dato' Sri Ir. Zamzamzairani Mohd Isa, Chairman of Maybank Group and Maybank Foundation; Datuk R. Karunakaran, Board of Trustees, Maybank; Puan Mazhatulshima Mohd Zahid, Group Chief Human Capital Officer, Maybank; Shahril Azuar Jimin, Group Chief Sustainability Officer, Maybank; Izlyn Ramli, Chief Executive Officer, Maybank Foundation; Surin Segar, Head, Group Tax and CFO Maybank Foundation; Dr. Areepong Bhoocha-Oom, Chairman, Maybank Securities Thailand; Henry Koh Swee Ong, Chief Operating Officer, Maybank Securities Thailand; and Dr. Piti Srisangnam, Executive Director of the ASEAN Foundation.

Following the workshop, the youth volunteers will head to their assigned project sites—ten communities across six ASEAN countries. Over the course of two weeks, they will live and work alongside local communities, co-developing solutions and building lasting connections that strengthen ASEAN unity from the ground up.

Since its launch in 2018, the eYAA programme has empowered 382 youth volunteers, implemented 40 impactful community projects, and positively impacted more than 89,000 individuals across the region. Each year, the programme grows in reach and relevance, and with Viet Nam joining the list of project countries this year, eYAA continues to expand its footprint and deepen its impact where it’s needed most.

For instance, Zulfikar Dabby Anwar, an alumnus of Cohort 4, previously contributed to a waste management initiative during his service in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Today, he plays a leading role as one of the CSO representatives in a Cohort 5 project. His journey reflects the tangible impact of the eYAA programme in empowering youth to lead sustainable community development efforts, while fostering cross-border collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

At its core, eYAA is a people-centred initiative that directly contributes to the realisation of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Blueprint 2025, particularly in building a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient ASEAN Community. By equipping young people with the tools, experience, and networks to lead change, the programme positions ASEAN youth as the main drivers in advancing sustainable development and strengthening regional solidarity.

This shared vision is made possible through the close partnership between the ASEAN Foundation and Maybank, through Maybank Foundation. By supporting eYAA, Maybank Foundation reaffirms its commitment to sustainability and inclusive growth, providing a meaningful platform for nurturing young leaders who are ready to address socio-economic and developmental challenges across the region. The initiative is also aligned with Maybank’s mission to humanise financial services and supports one of its four key sustainability commitments: improving the lives of two million households across ASEAN by 2025.
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