TP and TESDA Launch Near-Hire Training in Negros

TP and TESDA Launch Near-Hire Training in Negros

Thursday, September 25, 2025

Bridging Education and Employment in the Philippines

The IT-BPM industry continues to be one of the country’s strongest job creators—but many near-hires still struggle to meet industry standards for communication and customer engagement. Recognizing this challenge, TP in the Philippines (Teleperformance) has partnered with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to roll out the Near-Hire Communication Training Program in Negros Occidental.

This initiative, registered under TESDA’s Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) framework, ensures that young professionals are not just trained but industry-ready—equipped with the practical skills to succeed in customer service roles.

What the Training Program Offers

The 10-day, TESDA-accredited course is designed to prepare near-hires for potential careers at TP while strengthening the local talent pipeline. The curriculum features two modules:

Communication 101 – Builds technical articulation, pronunciation, grammar, thought organization, and conversational confidence.

Call Center 101 – Prepares trainees for the contact center environment through call flows, scripting, active listening, empathy, and problem-solving.

By focusing on both technical and practical aspects, the program immerses participants in the realities of the customer service sector, setting them up for long-term success.

Voices from the Partnership

Jeffrey Johnson, Chief People Officer of TP in the Philippines, emphasized that the program is more than skills training. “This program goes beyond skills training, giving students a tangible gateway as they step into meaningful careers in the IT-BPM industry.”

TESDA also underscored the significance of enterprise partnerships. Director General Jose Francisco Benitez noted that EBET allows companies to directly shape the skills of future workers. “Enterprises can now dictate what skills and competences they need, and TESDA now needs to respond flexibly to the demands of today’s complex world of work.”

Meanwhile, Niña Connie Dodd, TESDA Negros Island Region Interim Regional Director, described the partnership as EBET in motion, bringing to life TESDA’s vision of an empowered, work-ready youth.

Customer service remains one of the most dynamic career paths in the Philippines, particularly in provinces like Negros Occidental where new opportunities can uplift families and local communities. By collaborating with Bacolod City College and TESDA, TP demonstrates how government, academe, and private industry can work together to provide more accessible pathways to employment.

This program is not just about landing jobs—it’s about building confidence, careers, and stronger communities.

The Bigger Picture

The Near-Hire Communication Training Program reaffirms TP’s reputation as one of the country’s top employers while showcasing TESDA’s ability to evolve with industry demands. For young Filipinos seeking careers in IT-BPM, this program offers a vital bridge between classroom learning and real-world success.

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Cobra Energy Drink and TESDA Empower Filipinos

Cobra Energy Drink and TESDA Empower Filipinos

More Than Just Energy: A Partner in Dreams

When you think of Cobra Energy Drink, you probably think of stamina for long workdays or powering through late-night shifts. But this time, Cobra proves it’s more than just fuel for the body—it’s also fuel for ambition and opportunity. Through its flagship initiative, “Tatag sa Pagtupad ng Pangarap Kasama ang TESDA Program,” the brand is giving Filipinos not just energy, but the tools to build a brighter tomorrow.

In partnership with TESDA NCR – PAMAMARISAN District Office and DOLE-TUPAD, Cobra recently helped 29 #TeamLakas beneficiaries receive free technical-vocational training, TESDA certification, and a “Panimula Kit” to kickstart their careers or small businesses. The program is especially meaningful for workers who were displaced, unemployed, or underemployed after the pandemic.

Stories of Strength and Hope

Every scholar’s journey was a reminder of resilience—the very spirit of lakas that Cobra celebrates.

Judy Baliwag Lomboy, a Bread and Pastry Production graduate, shared that her family and friends gave her the inspiration to finish. “Ako’y lubos na nagpapasalamat sa pagkakataon na maging matagumpay sa aking tinatahak na landas,” she said.

Jennelbel Amulat, who completed her Housekeeping course, now dreams of working abroad and starting her own business. She promised to honor the opportunity given to her: “Para sa kapwa kong #TeamLakas, laban lang tayo.”

Jonalyn Yarra Abogado, also a Housekeeping graduate, expressed gratitude for the training and support. She now juggles part-time work while preparing for overseas opportunities.

Each TESDA National Certificate they received symbolized more than a credential—it was a second chance, a pathway to financial stability, and a new chapter in life. The Cobra “Panimula Kit” further equipped them with the practical tools to transform skills into livelihoods.

Cobra’s Mission: Fueling Energy, Fueling Dreams

For Cobra, this initiative is a way to live out its core values of strength, resilience, and perseverance.

Assistant Brand Manager Jonsell Del Mundo shared how inspiring it was to see the scholars’ determination firsthand: “We witnessed how, with the right support, they could rebuild their confidence and take the first steps toward their dreams.”

Marketing Manager Apple de Belen also highlighted the company’s larger mission: “Through #TeamLakas, we are proud to help Filipinos not only gain energy for today but also the skills and opportunities that will change their lives for tomorrow.”

At its core, Cobra’s partnership with TESDA and DOLE shows that nation-building is not only about big policies but also about equipping individuals with the skills and confidence to thrive. For many Filipinos, the road to success is long and uncertain—but programs like this provide a powerful reminder that with strength (lakas), training, and support, every dream is within reach.

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Yabang Pinoy Marks 20 Years of Championing Filipino Pride with Inspiring Events and Collaborations

Yabang Pinoy Marks 20 Years of Championing Filipino Pride with Inspiring Events and Collaborations

A Movement That Sparked a Consumer Revolution

Filipinos are known for resilience, creativity, and community spirit—and for the last 20 years, one grassroots movement has helped channel all these into a call to action: Yabang Pinoy. What started in 2005 as a small group of passionate advocates has now become a nationwide movement that reminds us to live proudly Filipino in our everyday choices—sa isip, sa salita, at sa gawa.

This 2025, Yabang Pinoy is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a series of events, collaborations, and initiatives that highlight the ingenuity of homegrown brands while planting seeds—literally—for a more sustainable future.

Honoring Two Decades of Advocacy

Over the years, Yabang Pinoy has built platforms that uplift local entrepreneurs, inspire young leaders, and give voice to Filipino creatives. Head of Projects & Partnerships JM Jose reflected that the movement’s greatest achievement is not just its programs, but the people who found their passion through it. Many former collaborators, advocates, and volunteers now carry the “Filipino First” mindset in their own work and communities.

Spotlight on Filipino Creativity

At its 20th anniversary press conference, Yabang Pinoy hosted “Filipino Brands in Focus,” a panel that featured trailblazing entrepreneurs.

One of them was Ann Poco, co-founder of lifestyle brand Gouache. What began as a single handmade camera bag with Marikina artisans has grown into a social enterprise creating stylish, functional carriers. To mark Yabang Pinoy’s 20th year, Gouache and the movement launched a collaboration line of bags where part of the proceeds will go to planting 100,000 Bitaog trees in La Union—a project that protects communities from flooding and coastal erosion.

Also in the spotlight was Ali Sangalang, co-founder of the witty lifestyle brand Linya-Linya. Known for turning everyday Filipino quirks into clever shirts, Ali has also ventured into music and design with Big Fuzz and Puddy Rock Studio. As part of the anniversary celebration, Linya-Linya introduced its Live Proud shorts, embodying Filipino identity in everyday wear.

Flagship Programs That Shaped the Movement

From its modest beginnings, Yabang Pinoy has grown into a powerhouse for promoting local products and culture. Its flagship event, the Global Pinoy Bazaar, started as a small community fair and has since expanded into major curated showcases of proudly Filipino goods. According to Director Patrick Joson, this event continues to bridge local entrepreneurs with consumers who value quality and national pride.

Other notable initiatives include:

• Philippine Cinema Sessions – sparking dialogue on the state of Philippine cinema.

• Y.A.B.A.N.G Camp – training youth leaders to uphold “Filipino First” values.

• 7107 – exploring hidden Philippine destinations while supporting grassroots livelihoods.

Upcoming 20th Anniversary Events

Filipinos looking to support local this season can look forward to Yabang Pinoy’s line-up of bazaars and sessions:

27th Global Pinoy Bazaar – Oct. 2–5, Glorietta, Makati

6th PH Cinema Session – Oct. 5 & 12, Linya-Linya HQ, QC

Global Pinoy Alabang Fair – Oct. 17–19, Alabang Town Center

28th Global Pinoy Bazaar – Nov. 20–23, Glorietta 2, Makati

29th Global Pinoy Bazaar – Nov. 27–30, Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong

For 20 years, Yabang Pinoy has stood as proof that living proudly Filipino is not just about wearing local brands, but about embracing a lifestyle of nation-building. This holiday season, their message is clear: choose Filipino, shop proudly, and live proudly.

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MediaTek Dimensity 9500 Redefines Mobile AI, Gaming, and Power Efficiency

MediaTek Dimensity 9500 Redefines Mobile AI, Gaming, and Power Efficiency

Wednesday, September 24, 2025

The Next Flagship Chipset Sets a New Benchmark for Smartphones

Smartphones are no longer just for calls and selfies—they’ve become our cameras, gaming consoles, productivity hubs, and even AI assistants. That’s why every leap in mobile chipset technology is a big deal. And with the official launch of the MediaTek Dimensity 9500, the game has changed once again.

This new flagship platform isn’t just about raw speed—it’s about delivering smarter AI, console-class graphics, and longer battery life, making it one of the most exciting chipsets Filipino smartphone users can look forward to in 2025.

Best-in-Class Performance and Efficiency

The Dimensity 9500 adopts a third-generation All Big Core CPU design, combining one ultra core running at 4.21GHz, three premium cores, and four performance cores. This setup translates to 29% faster single-core and 16% faster multi-core performance compared to its predecessor, while also cutting power consumption by as much as 55% at peak performance.

For everyday users, this means smoother multitasking, faster app launches, and a battery that lasts longer even under heavy use—perfect for those marathon video calls or binge-watching sessions.

A Leap Forward in AI Experiences

MediaTek senior VP JC Hsu highlighted how AI has become an essential part of modern life. He explained that the Dimensity 9500 is designed to make devices feel “smarter, faster, and more personal” without draining power.

This is made possible by the 9th-gen MediaTek NPU 990, equipped with Generative AI Engine 2.0. With up to 2x the compute power and 25% lower energy use, the chipset can handle advanced generative AI tasks like faster language model output, 4K ultra-high-resolution image generation, and more natural real-time interactions with AI assistants.

Console-Level Gaming on Mobile

Gamers in the Philippines will especially appreciate the Arm G1-Ultra GPU inside the Dimensity 9500. Offering 33% better peak performance and 42% more power efficiency, it supports double frame rate interpolation up to 120FPS and console-style raytracing.

On top of that, MediaTek’s close collaborations with major studios bring AAA-quality gaming to your phone, complete with immersive lighting effects in Unreal Engine 5. Imagine playing your favorite mobile RPGs or shooters with near-console visuals, but in the palm of your hand.

Cutting-Edge Imaging and Connectivity

Mobile photography also gets a big upgrade with the Imagiq 1190 ISP, supporting 200MP capture, RAW-domain pre-processing, and cinematic 4K 60FPS portrait videos. This is especially exciting for Pinoys who love to document everything—from food trips to travel adventures—with their smartphones.

Connectivity is just as advanced, with AI-enhanced Wi-Fi, Bluetooth call clarity, and 5CC carrier aggregation for faster mobile data. Network latency is reduced by up to 50%, while power efficiency improves by as much as 20%—a huge plus for always-on lifestyles.

When Will It Arrive?

According to MediaTek, the first flagship smartphones powered by the Dimensity 9500 are set to launch in the fourth quarter of 2025. With all its upgrades in AI, gaming, and power management, this chipset is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated mobile innovations of the year.

The MediaTek Dimensity 9500 isn’t just another processor—it’s a glimpse into the future of smartphones. For Filipinos who rely on their phones for work, play, and everything in between, this chipset promises a smarter, faster, and more immersive mobile experience. If you’re planning to upgrade in late 2025, keep an eye out for devices powered by this beast.

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From Kapitbahays to Kapitbuhays: How Profriends Builds Sustainable Filipino Communities

From Kapitbahays to Kapitbuhays: How Profriends Builds Sustainable Filipino Communities

What makes a house feel like home? For many Filipinos, it’s more than four sturdy walls and a roof overhead. A true home is one that stands within a community—where neighbors aren’t just kapitbahays but become kapitbuhays, people who grow and support one another like family.

This is the heart of Property Company of Friends, Inc. (Profriends), a property developer that goes beyond constructing homes. Profriends envisions communities that uplift Filipino families through thoughtful design, essential amenities, and programs that encourage connection and growth.

Building Homes That Last

A thriving community begins with homes built for the long run. Profriends ensures each house provides not only safety and comfort but also lasting value, so families can focus on building futures filled with confidence and stability.

Nurturing Learning and Faith

Education and faith are cornerstones of Filipino family life. That’s why Profriends communities are designed with access to schools and places of worship within or nearby. Whether it’s reducing long commutes for students or providing spaces for spiritual growth, these elements make everyday living more meaningful.

Creating Spaces for Work and Play

Communities thrive when families have both opportunities to earn and spaces to relax. Profriends strategically situates its developments near business districts and leisure areas, ensuring residents can access jobs, commerce, and recreation without straying far from home.

Making Everyday Essentials Accessible

From groceries to healthcare, the basics of daily living should never be out of reach. Profriends communities naturally develop ecosystems where service hubs, shops, and clinics grow alongside neighborhoods—bringing convenience right to residents’ doorsteps.

Laying the Groundwork for Progress

Developments such as Lancaster New City in Cavite and Parc Regency Residences in Iloilo show how Profriends transforms once-quiet areas into bustling, connected communities. As more families move in, infrastructure like transport, utilities, and roads expand—creating a ripple effect of growth.

Strengthening Community Life

More than just physical spaces, Profriends invests in programs that empower residents. Initiatives like GalingPinas, a volunteer movement led by homeowners, and Buyanigosyantes, which supports local entrepreneurs, show how communities flourish when neighbors take an active role in shaping their environment. Sports, health, livelihood, and family-centered activities foster deeper bonds and shared responsibility.

Where Families Can Truly Flourish

From Cavite to Iloilo, Profriends’ communities—including Westwind, Micara Estates, Minami Residences, Monticello Villas, and Monticello Intimo—embody this vision of sustainable living. By integrating quality housing, essential services, and people-centered programs, Profriends helps Filipino families not just live, but thrive, for generations to come.

Learn more about Profriends communities by visiting www.profriends.com.

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LBC Powers Cebuano Pride: Ensuring Seamless Delivery for DiaGold x Cary Santiago Gala

LBC Powers Cebuano Pride: Ensuring Seamless Delivery for DiaGold x Cary Santiago Gala

Tuesday, September 23, 2025

When it comes to fashion and fine jewelry, precision and reliability are everything. At the recently held DiaGold x Cary Santiago Gala in Shangri-La The Fort, the spotlight wasn’t just on the dazzling couture gowns and exquisite jewelry—it was also on the flawless logistics that made the show possible. Behind the scenes, LBC Business Solutions played a critical role in transporting Cebuano artistry from Cebu to Manila with care, speed, and expertise.

Cebuano Craftsmanship Takes Center Stage

The partnership between DiaGold and celebrated Cebuano designer Cary Santiago was a celebration of Filipino artistry on a national scale. From intricate gowns to timeless jewelry, the pieces required careful handling to ensure they arrived in pristine condition. This is where LBC Business Solutions stepped in, proving once again that it’s not just about moving items, but about safeguarding legacies of craftsmanship.

Delivering What Matters Most

According to Jerome Santos, Senior Vice President for Corporate Sales at LBC, the event was more than just logistics—it was about honoring Filipino creativity. He shared, “At LBC, we take pride in being a reliable partner in moving what matters most—whether it is business, personal, or in this case, a landmark moment in Philippine fashion.”

Through its specialized service, LBC Rush for Corporate, the brand ensures businesses can move products between Metro Manila, Visayas, and Mindanao in just one to two days. For the gala, this speed and precision were vital in bringing Cebuano artistry directly to Manila’s fashion stage.

A Trusted Partner for Filipino Brands

Jennifer Ty, CEO of DiaGold, also highlighted how essential LBC has been to their operations: “We are deeply thankful to LBC for making this show possible by taking care of our logistics needs. Beyond this event, LBC has always been instrumental to DiaGold’s success, ensuring that our jewelry pieces are delivered safely and efficiently from our online store to our customers nationwide.”

Her statement underscores LBC’s broader role in empowering Filipino entrepreneurs and creatives—providing reliable logistics so brands can focus on what they do best.

Beyond Fashion: LBC’s Commitment to Local Growth

The DiaGold x Cary Santiago Gala showcased the best of Cebuano creativity, but it also emphasized the importance of strong logistics partnerships in bringing local talent to a bigger stage. Whether it’s jewelry, couture, or everyday business shipments, LBC Business Solutions ensures that businesses of all sizes can connect to customers nationwide with confidence and speed.

Fashion shows may last a night, but the impact of Filipino artistry—and the logistics that make it possible—last much longer. With LBC Business Solutions, businesses and creatives alike can trust that their most valuable creations will always arrive safe, secure, and on time.

If you’re a Filipino entrepreneur or creative looking to expand your reach, LBC is more than just a courier—it’s a partner in growth.

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EastWest Ageas Launches Dream Builder Plan to Help Filipinos Secure Their Future

EastWest Ageas Launches Dream Builder Plan to Help Filipinos Secure Their Future

In today’s uncertain economic climate, Filipinos are becoming more conscious about protecting both their income and health. A recent study by EastWest Ageas revealed that 82% of Filipinos prioritize income security, while 81% are focused on staying healthy to avoid costly medical bills. But with wages projected to stagnate by 2026 and living costs continuing to rise, achieving financial goals has become an uphill battle.

Recognizing these challenges, EastWest Ageas has launched its new Dream Builder Plan, designed to provide Filipinos with guaranteed benefits and long-term financial security.

Why Dream Builder Matters for Filipinos

The Dream Builder Plan is part of EastWest Ageas’ PURPLE solutions, a portfolio created to make financial protection more accessible. It’s tailor-fit for Filipinos who want to maximize their income, prepare for emergencies, and invest in their future without added complexity.

With Dream Builder, policyholders can expect:

• Guaranteed cash payouts starting at the end of the 6th policy year
• Maturity benefits at the end of the 20th year
• Death benefit equal to 200% of the Sum Insured, plus 10% from the 11th to 20th year

These features make the plan especially valuable for young adults and breadwinners juggling daily expenses while saving for long-term milestones such as their children’s education or retirement.

A Solution That Empowers Filipinos

According to Sjoerd Smeets, President and CEO of EastWest Ageas:

“Filipinos deserve a solution that empowers them to pursue their life goals while staying protected. Whether it’s retirement planning, funding your children’s college education, or ensuring your family’s security, Dream Builder provides the protection and guaranteed benefits you need to confidently pursue your dreams.”

Greg Martin, Chief Distribution and Marketing Officer, added:

“With Dream Builder, we hope to help more Filipinos build their dreams with peace of mind. Life may be uncertain, but this plan gives you the security every Filipino deserves.”

Accessible and Easy to Apply

Dream Builder also addresses one of the biggest hurdles in insurance: accessibility. With its simplified application process, more Filipinos can now secure a policy without going through complicated requirements. Interested individuals can connect with EastWest Ageas financial consultants or advisors conveniently available at EastWest Bank branches nationwide.

At a time when financial security feels harder to achieve, EastWest Ageas’ Dream Builder Plan offers Filipinos a practical and reliable solution. With guaranteed payouts, long-term protection, and simple access, it empowers individuals and families to confidently plan for the future.

To learn more, visit www.ewageas.com.ph and start building your dreams today.

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