SOCIAL MEDIA

Wise Business Account Empowers Filipino MSMEs to Go Global

Monday, September 15, 2025


Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are eager to expand internationally, but outdated payment systems have long held them back. Traditional bank transfers remain slow, expensive, and filled with hidden charges—costing local businesses a staggering ₱39.5 billion in 2024 alone due to exchange rate markups.

Recognizing this gap, Wise has officially launched the Wise Business Account in the Philippines, a digital-first solution designed to help MSMEs send, receive, and manage money globally with speed, transparency, and lower costs.

Why Wise Business Matters for Filipino MSMEs

MSMEs make up 99.6% of all businesses in the country, yet many lose thousands of pesos every year just on unnecessary bank fees. According to Wise’s research, nearly half of Filipino MSMEs still rely on traditional banks for international payments—despite the inefficiencies.

With the new Wise Business Account, MSMEs can:

Receive payments in 24 currencies – Get paid like a local in 10 major currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, SGD, etc.) for a one-time fee of ₱1,400, or access 14 more via SWIFT with full fee transparency.

Send money globally, faster – Pay overseas suppliers or employees at the real mid-market exchange rate (the same one on Google) with no hidden markups. Over 70% of payments arrive within 20 seconds.

Spend anywhere, anytime – Use the Wise Business debit card in 150+ countries, free from foreign transaction fees. Business owners can also set spending limits and track employee expenses in real time.

Streamline operations – Integrate with accounting tools like Xero and QuickBooks, generate invoices, and even pay up to 1,000 people at once—perfect for scaling companies.

Best of all, account opening is 100% online with no monthly fees or minimum balance required.

From Local Startup to Global Brand

For Raphaela Amat Agupitan, Managing Director of Koru Adventures & Travel Inc., switching to Wise Business was a turning point. “In 2024 alone, we saved around ₱280,000 in bank fees. Payments that used to take days now arrive within hours, improving our cash flow significantly. Wise Business also made it easier for our overseas clients—who now make up 60% of our customer base—to pay us. That’s how we grew from a small local business in 2020 to an international brand serving 14 countries today.”

She added that the Wise Business card simplified expense management for her team, freeing up more time to focus on growing their business instead of drowning in paperwork.

One Account for Global Growth

According to Areson Cuevas, Country Manager of Wise Philippines, the platform is designed to cut through the complexity that many small businesses face. “More than half of MSMEs juggle multiple payment providers just to manage their global operations. With Wise Business, they can do everything from one account—receive, send, spend, and manage their money with full transparency. Whether you’re a freelancer in Manila or a startup in Cebu, Wise Business helps you scale globally without the financial roadblocks.”

Building on Fintech Momentum in the Philippines

Wise is no stranger to the Philippines. It was the first global fintech fully integrated with InstaPay and PESONet, processing about 12% of all inbound remittances. With the Wise Business launch, those same reliable and cost-efficient solutions are now extended to MSMEs, giving them the tools to compete on the global stage.

If you’re tired of hidden fees, slow transactions, and complicated cross-border payments, the Wise Business Account might just be the upgrade your business needs to go global with ease.
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EastWest Wins Double at 2025 Quill Awards


Celebrating Communication Excellence in Banking and Insurance

Filipino excellence once again shines on the international stage as Team EastWest proudly takes home not one, but two trophies from the 2025 IABC Philippines Quill Awards. Both East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) and EastWest Ageas Insurance (EWA) were honored for their impactful communication campaigns that inspired customers and empowered employees.

EastWest’s 30th Anniversary Campaign: “Further for You”

Marking three decades in the industry, EastWest’s milestone campaign “Further for You” earned recognition for its creative storytelling and customer-first initiatives. Featuring ambassadors Donny Pangilinan and Carlos Yulo, the year-long celebration went beyond branding. From exclusive events and digital rollouts like the EasyWay App to an anniversary logo inspired by the yin-yang, the campaign beautifully blended Filipino warmth with technological innovation.

The campaign showcased what EastWest stands for: making banking easier, more personal, and more meaningful. It proved that in today’s fast-paced world, financial services can be both human-centered and future-forward.

EWA’s “LOVE PURPLE” Campaign: Inspiring Unity Through Purpose

Meanwhile, EastWest Ageas Insurance earned its own Quill for “LOVE PURPLE: Uniting Employees with One Goal, One Color, One Purpose.” The campaign brought the company’s refreshed identity, “What’s Your PURPLE?” to life, inspiring its employees—fondly called Stewards—to embrace their unique culture.

From vibrant merchandise to music festival-inspired events, the campaign united employees around a single vision: to serve customers with passion and authenticity. It proved that strong internal culture translates to better customer experiences.

As EastWest Head of Marketing Norman Martin C. Reyes shared, these victories are rooted in people: customers who inspire and employees who bring the brand’s purpose to life. Both campaigns reflect how meaningful communication can create impact not just within organizations, but also in the lives of Filipinos who trust these institutions.

The Prestige of the Quill Awards

The IABC Quill Awards are considered one of the most prestigious recognitions in the communication industry. With thousands of entries submitted every year, only a few stand out. This double win cements EastWest’s position as a brand that balances customer-first values with innovation and creativity.

EastWest and EWA’s recognition is more than just a trophy—it’s a reminder that businesses thrive when they put people first. Whether you’re a customer experiencing seamless banking or an employee finding purpose in your work, these wins highlight the power of communication done right.
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Baguio City Launches GoodGovChain with BayaniChain for Blockchain Governance


A milestone for transparency and accountability in Philippine local governance

Baguio City is making history as the first local government unit (LGU) in the Philippines to adopt blockchain technology for governance. In partnership with BayaniChain, the city has launched GoodGovChain, a digital platform designed to secure public records, ensure accountability, and set new standards for transparent governance.

This pilot project is not just a win for Baguio—it represents a significant step toward modernizing government systems nationwide, aligning with Senator Bam Aquino’s proposed “Blockchain the Budget” bill.

Blockchain for Trust in Governance

For decades, citizens have called for greater transparency in government budgets, procurement, and infrastructure projects. GoodGovChain directly addresses this need by enabling LGUs to record data on a secure blockchain—a tamper-proof digital ledger where entries are time-stamped, auditable, and verifiable.

BayaniChain CEO Paul Soliman explains, “GoodGovChain is the blueprint for verifiable governance—replicable, auditable, and tamper-evident by default. Baguio City sets the benchmark in our advocacy for improved accountability across the Philippines and Southeast Asia.”

By putting records on blockchain, government transactions gain a new level of credibility, giving citizens confidence that the information they access is accurate and untampered.

The Impact: Efficiency, Security, and Cost Savings

Unlike traditional systems that rely heavily on paper, printing, and physical storage, GoodGovChain runs on a hybrid public-private blockchain hosted in the cloud. While this entails operating costs, the benefits outweigh the expense through:
  • Lower printing and courier costs
  • Reduced need for physical storage
  • Faster retrieval of documents
  • Shorter audit cycles

Importantly, GoodGovChain does not replace existing records or finance systems. Instead, it adds a digital seal to every approved document, allowing anyone to verify whether a PDF or printed copy matches the original.

The platform also supports sustainability goals by leveraging Polygon’s proof-of-stake (PoS) network, a far more energy-efficient system compared to older proof-of-work blockchains.

The Vision: From Local to National Transparency

Baguio City Mayor Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong emphasized the city’s commitment to open governance. “One of the basic principles of good governance is transparency, and blockchain will allow us to be transparent, especially in financial transactions and infrastructure projects. What is very important here is security—and the only way we’ll truly achieve open data is by ensuring all records are placed on blockchain before publishing.”

The pilot project builds on similar efforts by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), which already secures Special Allotment Release Orders (SAROs) and Notices of Cash Allocation (NCAs) using blockchain. This system was cited in Senator Aquino’s bill, which envisions blockchain as a national standard for budget transparency.

With Baguio as the first mover, GoodGovChain could become a model for other LGUs and agencies, paving the way for a more accountable government across the country.

Key Takeaways for Leaders and Entrepreneurs
  • Transparency builds trust. Blockchain provides a verifiable way to open government data without fear of tampering.
  • Efficiency equals savings. Digitized, blockchain-sealed records streamline auditing and cut operational costs.
  • Innovation sets benchmarks. By piloting blockchain governance, Baguio City positions itself as a leader in smart, accountable governance.

Looking Ahead: A Call for Replicable Governance

The success of GoodGovChain in Baguio could trigger a ripple effect across the Philippines. As more cities, municipalities, and national agencies adopt blockchain, citizens can look forward to greater trust in government processes, reduced corruption risks, and more efficient delivery of public services.

This is more than a pilot project—it is a glimpse into the future of transparent digital governance in the Philippines.
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Coca-Cola iSTAR Empowers Cebu Carinderia

Saturday, September 13, 2025


How training, digital tools, and perseverance transformed Nicolai’s Cuisine into a thriving business

Cebu has long been known as a hub of hardworking entrepreneurs, from bustling sari-sari stores to family-owned carinderias. But behind every successful venture is often a story of resilience, learning, and the right support system. This is the case for Juniel and Salome Lucero of Pinamungahan, Cebu, whose homegrown food business, Nicolai’s Cuisine, rose from modest beginnings to become a thriving enterprise—thanks in part to Coca-Cola Philippines’ iSTAR Program.

From Packed Lunches to a Growing Enterprise

The Luceros opened Nicolai’s Cuisine in 2018, driven by Juniel’s dream of building a stable livelihood after returning from working abroad and Salome’s passion for cooking. Like many small businesses, their start was rocky. Sales were inconsistent, their location had low foot traffic, and they lacked systems for managing operations.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced them to rethink their approach. Shifting online, they began selling packed lunches and built a loyal customer base. Over time, their offerings expanded to catering services, lechon belly packages, and even a sideline trading in food packaging materials. What started as a home kitchen now serves clients from across Cebu.

Turning Struggles into Opportunities Through Training

The couple credits their turnaround to Coca-Cola’s entrepreneurship training. In 2019, Juniel joined the STAR Program, the foundation of today’s iSTAR (Innovative Sari-Sari Store Training and Access to Resources) Program. Later, in July 2024, both enrolled in iSTAR through the Lamac Multi-Purpose Cooperative, where they learned product costing, online marketing, digital payments, and customer engagement.

By applying these lessons, they used online platforms to reach more customers. As Salome shared, moving online was a game-changer. “Sales were really strong online. Living in the countryside, digital tools allowed us to connect with more people. We thought, why only now? But it’s never too late.”

Creative promotions—like raffles for lechon belly, free delivery, and seasonal menu items—helped them strengthen customer loyalty and grow revenue. Their monthly income rose from ₱30,000 to ₱50,000, enabling them to better provide for their children’s education and future.

Recognition and Wider Opportunities

Today, Nicolai’s Cuisine is officially registered with PhilGEPS, opening doors to government contracts and larger institutional clients. Their efforts also earned them the Top One Most Impactful and Inspiring Award under iSTAR: HERStories, which celebrates entrepreneurs who applied their training to achieve meaningful growth.

Reflecting on their journey, Juniel and Salome encourage other small business owners to seize opportunities. “If you’re willing to learn, the training is free and worth it. Don’t be afraid to grab the opportunities that come your way.”

Coca-Cola’s Legacy of Empowering Entrepreneurs

The iSTAR Program builds on Coca-Cola’s STAR Program launched in 2012, which empowered around 250,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). In 2020, iSTAR was introduced to equip entrepreneurs with skills for today’s digital economy. Strengthened further in 2024 with the launch of Centers for Entrepreneurship (CFEs) in key regions, the initiative has already produced more than 300,000 graduates nationwide.

This ongoing commitment reflects Coca-Cola’s belief that uplifting Filipino micro-entrepreneurs not only transforms families but also strengthens communities and local economies.

A Recipe for Success

The story of Nicolai’s Cuisine shows how the right mix of passion, training, and innovation can help Filipino family businesses thrive. With Coca-Cola’s iSTAR Program reaching more MSMEs nationwide, countless other entrepreneurs may soon follow in the Luceros’ footsteps—turning small beginnings into sustainable enterprises.

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Shell and Yanson Group Boost VisMin Travel

In photo (from left to right): Ronald Ancheta, Shell Lubricants Account Manager; Greg Moratin, National Sales Team Manager; Jacqueline Famorca, VP Shell Lubricants Philippines; Lorelie Osial, President & CEO of Shell Pilipinas Corporation; Doc. Hernan Ormecillo, Chief Operation Officer, YGBC; Edgar Alteros, VP for Finance, YGB; Atty. Roland Jun Pugoy, VP for MIS; Atty. Julius Entila, VP for Admin

 
A strategic partnership brings efficiency and reliability to one of the country’s largest bus networks

Travel across the Visayas and Mindanao just got a boost in safety and efficiency. Shell Pilipinas Corporation has teamed up with the Yanson Group of Bus Companies (YGBC), one of the country’s biggest provincial bus operators, in a partnership that strengthens reliable mobility for thousands of Filipinos who depend on public transport every day.

Powering Regional Mobility with Shell’s Expertise

Signed in Bacolod City last August 2025, the agreement names Shell as YGBC’s exclusive lubricant solutions provider. At the heart of this collaboration is Shell Rimula R4 Plus, a heavy-duty diesel engine oil designed to improve vehicle performance, extend oil life, and maximize fuel efficiency.

With YGBC operating one of the most extensive bus networks in the VisMin region, the partnership ensures smoother and more dependable journeys across provincial routes. For many communities, these buses are more than just transport—they’re lifelines connecting families, businesses, and local economies.

Efficiency and Value Beyond Lubricants

Shell’s Rimula portfolio offers more than just fuel savings. Its advanced formulations can extend oil drain intervals up to 150,000 km, deliver up to 56% better wear protection, and reduce overall maintenance costs—factors that directly improve the total cost of ownership for fleet operators.

Beyond products, Shell will also provide a full suite of technical services to YGBC, reinforcing its commitment to end-to-end business solutions. This holistic approach helps operators like YGBC remain at the forefront of reliable and safe public transportation.

Shared Vision for Safer Journeys

Jacqueline Famorca, General Manager of Shell Lubricants Philippines, underscored the long-term value of the collaboration. Famorca explained that Shell’s mission is to empower transport operators like YGBC to move more people safely and efficiently. She emphasized that by combining premium engine oils with technical expertise, Shell aims to improve transport accessibility and support business owners in optimizing their operations.

This alignment of values highlights how corporate partnerships can directly benefit communities, especially in regions where safe, affordable, and dependable transport remains essential.

Why This Partnership Matters to Filipinos

For everyday commuters in the Visayas and Mindanao, the alliance means fewer breakdowns, safer long-distance rides, and a more sustainable approach to regional transportation. It also showcases how businesses can work hand in hand to create value not just for themselves, but for the communities they serve.

Driving Growth, One Journey at a Time

Shell Pilipinas Corporation and Yanson Group’s partnership is more than a business deal—it’s an investment in the future of travel for Filipinos in VisMin. By combining world-class technology with trusted local operations, they are setting the standard for safe, efficient, and accessible public transport.

As more businesses look toward sustainability and operational efficiency, collaborations like this highlight how innovation and partnerships can move entire regions forward.

If you’re interested in stories of corporate partnerships shaping everyday Filipino lives, check out our features on technology-driven transport solutions, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and business innovations in sustainability.
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Herbalife Empowers Gen Z Entrepreneurs in PH


Herbalife Philippines Inspires Young Entrepreneurs at Next Gen Opportunity Meeting

With more than half of Filipino Gen Z dreaming of starting their own businesses, the future of entrepreneurship in the Philippines looks promising—but passion needs the right guidance and support to grow. That’s why Herbalife Philippines hosted the Next Gen Opportunity Meeting, an immersive summit designed to empower young entrepreneurs through wellness, mentorship, and real-life success stories.

Bringing together nearly 500 aspiring entrepreneurs, young professionals, and Herbalife distributors, the event provided a space where learning, networking, and inspiration blended seamlessly to help participants take bold steps toward building their own ventures.

Blending Wellness, Mentorship, and Community

Unlike traditional business conferences, the summit integrated wellness activities, skill-building sessions, and personal storytelling. This unique approach encouraged participants to reflect on their journeys, gain practical tools, and connect with a supportive community.

Allan Domingo, General Manager of Herbalife Philippines, explained the company’s vision for the event, “We want young entrepreneurs to have a space where they can really grow and learn to take action. By combining mentorship, wellness, and a community that supports them, we help them turn their ideas into real opportunities and build the kind of success that lasts.”

He also highlighted Herbalife’s commitment to equipping its independent distributors with expert-led training on nutrition and health, ensuring they can confidently guide customers and thrive in business.

Gen Z Perspectives on Growth and Connection

Gen Z marketing strategist and entrepreneur Patricia Germentil emphasized the importance of authentic connections in building a lasting business, “Likes are just surface level. Real growth comes from building a community that lasts. Your day ones aren’t just followers—they’re the ones who believe in you and support your journey from the start.”

She added that customers resonate more with purpose-driven experiences than with products alone, stressing the value of immersive engagement when building a brand.

Lessons from Personal Journeys

The summit featured Joyce Pring and Juancho Triviño, both television personalities and fitness advocates, in a live podcast-style discussion. They shared practical advice on balancing life and entrepreneurship—Pring underscoring the importance of self-care, and Triviño pointing to discipline and daily consistency as the real drivers of long-term success.

Herbalife triathlete, teacher, and mother Ines Santiago also inspired attendees with her personal story. What started as a 10-minute stress-relief jog grew into long-distance triathlons and a role as a wellness ambassador. She shared, “Adversity pushes you to do better, to live your best life, and to be your best self.”
 
Her journey highlighted how wellness routines can build the resilience and mindset needed to succeed in entrepreneurship.

Building the Next Generation of Leaders

With nearly 500 attendees, the Next Gen Opportunity Meeting wasn’t just about learning—it was about community building. By combining personal development, entrepreneurial training, and wellness, Herbalife Philippines created a space where young entrepreneurs could be inspired, gain skills, and build networks that last.

Herbalife Philippines’ Next Gen Opportunity Meeting proves that the future of business in the country lies in creating holistic, community-driven experiences that empower young Filipinos to pursue their dreams. With the right blend of mentorship, wellness, and resilience, today’s Gen Z entrepreneurs are well on their way to shaping tomorrow’s economy.

For more updates on Herbalife Philippines and its initiatives, follow their official social media channels.
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HUAWEI Leads Global Wearable Market in 2025 with Consecutive No. 1 Rankings


In a world where technology increasingly shapes how we live, work, and stay healthy, HUAWEI has once again proven why it is a force to be reckoned with. The tech giant secured the top spot in the global wearable market for the second consecutive quarter, achieving an impressive 20.2% market share in Q2 2025, according to the International Data Corporation (IDC).

This milestone reflects not just market dominance, but also a growing alignment between consumer needs and HUAWEI’s vision of health-driven, human-centered innovation.

The wearable technology market has become more than just a gadget race—it’s now a critical touchpoint in health monitoring, fitness, and lifestyle integration. For professionals and business leaders, these devices represent a larger trend: the merging of technology with wellness, productivity, and everyday living.

By consistently leading the wearable space, HUAWEI demonstrates the power of continuous innovation, strategic product launches, and consumer trust. For industries observing this growth, it serves as a case study in market leadership built on both design excellence and social relevance.

The Impact: Redefining Smart Lifestyles

From fitness to healthcare, HUAWEI wearables are expanding possibilities for users:

Everyday versatility: The HUAWEI FIT 4 Series delivers sleek, powerful functionality for day-to-day living.

Extended performance: The HUAWEI WATCH 5 Series introduces dual battery modes, catering to both heavy users and casual wearers.

Health innovation: With the TruSense system in the HUAWEI GT 5 Series, users gain access to advanced health monitoring.

Medical-grade precision: The HUAWEI WATCH D2 becomes the first smartwatch in the Philippines to support ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM), a feature certified by China’s NMPA and EU regulations.

These advancements not only set new standards for wearables but also highlight the role of technology in empowering healthier, smarter lifestyles worldwide.

The Vision: “Ride the Wind” Launch in Paris

Momentum shows no signs of slowing. On September 19, 2025, in Paris, HUAWEI will host its much-anticipated “Ride the Wind” product launch, where the company is expected to reveal the next generation of wearables designed for smart, health-driven living.

This event signals HUAWEI’s commitment to maintaining global leadership by continually expanding the intersection of style, health, and technology.

For business leaders and entrepreneurs, HUAWEI’s story offers valuable lessons:
  • Market leadership thrives on continuous innovation.
  • Consumer trust grows when technology solves real, everyday needs.
  • Global vision requires local relevance, as seen in health-first features tailored to specific markets like the Philippines.

As wearables become integral to professional and personal life, HUAWEI’s trajectory reinforces how businesses can align profit with purpose—delivering innovation that enhances human well-being.
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