SOCIAL MEDIA

DBM Adopts Blockchain for Transparent Government Budget

Sunday, October 5, 2025


Blockchain Enters the Philippine Government: A Game-Changer for Transparency

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) just made history by integrating blockchain technology into the government’s budgeting process—a bold move that could redefine how public funds are tracked and trusted in the Philippines.

In an era when Filipinos demand greater transparency and accountability, this innovation promises to make every peso traceable and verifiable. Gone are the days when budget documents could be easily lost, delayed, or questioned—thanks to a tamper-proof, blockchain-backed system that ensures every transaction is recorded and protected.

As DBM Undersecretary Goddes Hope “Sasa” Libiran emphasized, blockchain isn’t just a tech trend—it’s a governance tool that reinforces public trust.

Libiran noted that blockchain enables every transaction to be transparent and verifiable, ensuring citizens can confidently track how public funds are managed.

A First for Asia: Blockchain-Backed Budget Transparency

While many industries—from crypto to logistics—have already embraced blockchain, the DBM’s adoption marks one of Asia’s first large-scale government implementations. This milestone positions the Philippines as a regional trailblazer in digital governance, inspiring other nations to follow suit.

The DBM’s new production portal, blockchain.dbm.gov.ph, now records Special Allotment Release Orders (SAROs) and Notices of Cash Allocation (NCAs) as blockchain-verified entries. Through partnerships with BayaniChain and ExakIT Services, this platform makes budget documents tamper-proof while letting the public view how funds are authorized and released—marking a new era of budget transparency and accountability.

Filipino Innovation: BayaniChain and ExakIT at the Core

According to BayaniChain CEO Paul Soliman, this project showcases how homegrown Filipino tech talent can contribute to national progress.


Soliman explained that by combining blockchain with artificial intelligence, BayaniChain aims to strengthen public finance security and prove how advanced technologies can help safeguard critical systems.

The process starts with the Action Document Releasing System (ADRS), which generates official budget documents. These are then secured using BayaniChain’s Lumen Blockchain-as-a-Service platform, developed with ExakIT.

To ensure privacy, the Prismo Protocol filters which details are public and which remain confidential. Approved SAROs and NCAs are stored as NFTs on the Polygon blockchain, protecting them from tampering or forgery—an effective safeguard against document fraud or deepfake attempts.

Empowering Citizens with Accessible Data

Starting from 2024, citizens can easily verify documents by scanning a QR code or searching online using document details such as department or agency name. This open-access system aligns with the DBM’s long-term goal: a citizen-first digital finance ecosystem where every stage of the budget—from planning to auditing—is traceable and transparent.

The Future: AI + Blockchain for Smarter Governance

The DBM envisions an even more integrated system where blockchain and AI work together to detect anomalies, forecast fiscal needs, and improve decision-making. These tools will not only boost accountability but also promote efficiency in the use of public funds.

As Libiran put it, this initiative is about more than digitizing documents—it’s about building the next generation of public finance systems rooted in transparency, technology, and trust.

A Step Toward Digital Democracy

The Philippines is proving that governance can evolve with the times. With blockchain and AI paving the way, the DBM’s leadership sets a precedent for open, trustworthy, and citizen-driven public service—a strong message that government innovation is no longer a dream but a reality.

This initiative is a huge win for transparency advocates and tech-savvy Filipinos alike. If successfully implemented, it could inspire a wave of digital transformation across other government agencies.
Read More

UNLEASH Philippines 2025 Empowers Young Innovators to Shape the Future

Wednesday, October 1, 2025


A First for the Country, A Milestone for Filipino Talent

In September 2025, the Philippines hosted its first-ever UNLEASH Regional Innovation Lab, bringing together 150 innovators from all 17 regions of the country at the University of Santo Tomas. From bustling cities to remote islands, participants converged to design solutions addressing the Philippines’ most urgent challenges in health, food security, and sustainable infrastructure.

This landmark program was part of the Royal Academy of Engineering’s Leaders in Innovation Fellowships (LIF) Launchpad, connecting Filipino talent with the global innovation ecosystem.

Turning Ideas Into Action

During the week-long lab, participants applied the UNLEASH Innovation Methodology, a proven design-thinking process previously used in Denmark, Singapore, India, Rwanda, and Brazil. In just seven days, innovators moved from problem framing to ideation, prototyping, and pitching, guided by 14 international facilitators.

The result? 34 early-stage solutions ready to advance to the prototyping stage—each one rooted in Filipino creativity, informed by local realities, and aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Innovation With a Human Touch

Jackie Stenson, Managing Director of UNLEASH, emphasized that solving global challenges requires more than just technology.

“Technology on its own isn’t enough to solve big problems. You have to understand and serve the whole system—the people, the communities, and the structures around it. That’s what we encourage at UNLEASH: solutions that create real-world impact.”

Building a Diverse Community of Changemakers


What made UNLEASH Philippines truly unique was its inclusive approach. Participants represented a wide spectrum of disciplines—engineers, scientists, health professionals, creatives, and community leaders—showing how collaboration across fields sparks stronger, scalable ideas.


Supported by UST’s TOMASInno Center Technology Business Incubator, the lab provided an environment where students, researchers, and professionals could access the same networks, skills, and mentorship—leveling the playing field for all Filipino innovators.

From Local Impact to Global Reach


UNLEASH Philippines proved that Filipino youth are ready to take on global challenges. With structured support and international connections, these innovators are not only building for their communities but also shaping solutions that can benefit the world.

The journey doesn’t stop here—participants now continue refining their prototypes, with the potential to scale into impactful ventures across Southeast Asia and beyond.

Learn more about UNLEASH and how young Filipinos are driving innovation by visiting their official website
Read More
·

Three Years of Impact: PRecious Communications Powers Growth, Innovation and Recognition in the Philippines

Left to Right:  Lars Voedisch, Founder and Group CEO, Paolo Alba, Regional VP and Country Lead (Philippines), and Hannah Kiwahko, Associate County Lead (Philippines)



PRecious Communications, an award-winning multi-market integrated communications agency, is celebrating its third year of growth in the Philippines. With the National AI Roadmap in effect, the agency continues to scale its operations and strengthen its foothold in the market, growing 2.5x year-on-year on the back of established partnerships with leading tech enterprises and fast-growing startups in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Amid the country’s fast-tracked adoption of AI, the agency has been strengthening its digital capabilities to support the demands of the growing economy.

As domestic spending remains strong and inflation stays low, the University of Asia and the Pacific forecasts the Philippines’ gross domestic product (GDP) to grow by 5.8% in the third quarter of 2025. Among the fastest in Southeast Asia, the Department of Finance previously reported a 5.5% GDP growth rate in the second quarter of 2025.

“The Philippines is not just one of our fastest-growing markets in Southeast Asia. It is redefining what is possible for our industry,” declared Lars Voedisch, Founder and Group CEO of PRecious Communications. “From a surging economy to a tech scene embracing AI at warp speed, the nation is pulling private and public forces together to build a future-ready workforce. The momentum here is electrifying, and we are all in, driving new growth frontiers not just in the Philippines, but across the region.”

Building on the agency’s established partnerships with the world’s leader in digital payments Visa, leading regional insurtech Igloo, and the Philippines’ largest telco provider Globe, PRecious Communications also represents Filipino-founded startups that have been making an impact in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Among these fast-growing startups include credit-led neobank Zed and OpenAI’s first boutique consultancy partner in APAC, Thinking Machines.

“Since our establishment in 2022, it has been our mission to champion the Philippines’ digital economy. Leveraging the strength of our network, we have been supporting the growth of Filipino companies in Southeast Asia and the expansion of regional brands in the Philippines,” added Paolo Alba, Regional Vice President and Country Lead of PRecious Communications in the Philippines. “As we invest in new technologies and strengthen our digital capabilities, we look forward to driving more integrated solutions for our partners in the Philippines and across the region.”

Spearheading the agency’s digital integration is Hannah Kiwahko who was recently appointed associate country lead in the Philippines. A 10+ year digital and performance marketing veteran, Kiwahko has been recognized for leading award-winning campaigns with a proven track-record of impacting consumer engagement and client revenue for leading brands in the FMCG, healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. In her new role, Kiwahko will work closely with Alba to leverage the credibility of PR and measurability of digital marketing to integrate insight and data-driven solutions that help brands connect with audiences and drive tangible business results.

To reaffirm its momentum, PRecious Communications was named medium-sized consultancy of the year in Southeast Asia, while Alba was named executive of the year in the Philippines at the recently concluded 2025 International Business Awards (IBAs). In the Philippines, Alba and the agency have also been shortlisted for the agency leader of the year and most innovative PR agency of the year categories at the upcoming Marketech APAC NEXT Awards. PRecious Communications was among the top 4 PR agencies in the Philippines at Campaign Asia’s Agency of the Year Awards (AOY) and among the top 3 in-market consultancies in APAC at PRCA’s The Gold Standard Awards in 2024.

For more information, you may reach out to preciousPH@preciouscomms.com.

Read More

Western Union Launches First-Ever Mobile App with Send & Request Features in the Philippines


A new way for Filipinos to manage remittances and global money transfers

When it comes to Filipino families, remittances are more than just money—they’re lifelines that fund education, healthcare, and everyday essentials. Now, Western Union is making it easier than ever to send and receive funds with the launch of its brand-new mobile app in the Philippines.

The Philippines is the first country in the world where Western Union is rolling out an app that not only lets users send money abroad but also request remittances—a groundbreaking feature designed to match the needs of millions of Filipinos with loved ones overseas.

Seamless Global Transfers at Your Fingertips

With just a few taps, app users can send funds abroad through Western Union’s global financial network, which connects to billions of bank accounts, millions of digital wallets and cards, and hundreds of thousands of cash payout locations worldwide.

Payments are made easy with QR Ph, the national QR code system, ensuring a fast and secure process. Signing up is simple too—taking only a few minutes to get started.

For those receiving remittances, the app offers new flexibility. Recipients in the Philippines can:
  • Withdraw cash at Western Union locations
  • Transfer directly to a bank account
  • Receive funds in a digital wallet

Even better, receivers can redirect funds to their preferred payout method once the money has been sent from abroad.

A Game-Changer: Request Funds from Abroad

One of the most exciting features is the Request Money option. Filipinos can request funds from family and friends in countries like the U.S., Australia, Singapore, and the UK—all major hubs of the Filipino diaspora. Once the request is filled in, senders abroad can complete the transaction online in minutes.

This innovative feature makes it easier for families to stay connected financially, especially when unexpected expenses arise back home.

Western Union’s Commitment to Filipinos

Gregory Laurent, Western Union’s Vice President for the Philippines, Japan, Australia, New Zealand & Pacific Islands, emphasized the importance of this launch. He explained that for many Filipinos, remittances symbolize hope and opportunity. With more Filipinos also sending funds abroad, Western Union’s new app bridges both needs with flexibility and trust.

Why It Matters: Remittances in the Philippine Economy

Remittances remain a driving force in the local economy. According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, cash inflows reached a record-high $38 billion in 2024. Meanwhile, the World Bank ranked the Philippines as having the fourth-highest remittance levels among low- and middle-income countries worldwide.

The top source of remittances? The United States, followed closely by Singapore.

With Western Union’s new app, these inflows become even more seamless, allowing families to access and manage their money faster.

Download and Start Sending Today

The Western Union app is now available on both the App Store and Google Play. Whether you’re sending support to loved ones or requesting funds from abroad, this tool makes money management across borders more convenient than ever.
Read More

Naturland Brings EU Organic Food Campaign to the Philippines

Monday, September 29, 2025

 

Why Organic Matters for Filipinos Today

Filipinos are becoming more mindful of what they eat. A PwC 2025 Voice of the Consumer Report shows that 67% of Filipinos consider nutrition a top factor in food purchases, while 99% want to adopt healthier, mindful eating habits according to a study by Food Industry Asia. Yet, despite growing demand, access to organic food remains limited.

That’s why Naturland e.V., one of the world’s largest organic farming associations, has officially launched the “European Organic: Nurturing Every Juan” campaign in the Philippines. The three-year initiative, supported by the European Union, aims to make organic food more accessible while educating consumers on its benefits for health, sustainability, and food security.

A Delicious Start: Organic Dining at Grace Park

The campaign kicked off on EU Organic Day (September 24, 2025) with a curated lunch at Grace Park Dining, a restaurant known for championing organic food under the legacy of chef Margarita Fores. Every dish featured EU-certified organic ingredients, offering guests a taste of how quality, care, and sustainability come together on the plate.

What Makes EU Organic Different?

During the event, experts explained what sets EU organic standards apart:
  • No GMOs (genetically modified organisms)
  • Minimal synthetic fertilizers and pesticides
  • 100% organic animal feed
  • Farming methods that protect soil and plant health

Food that meets these standards earns the EU organic logo, a trusted seal that guarantees transparency, quality, and sustainability.

As Tom van der Meulen, Managing Director of Control Union Philippines, explained: “When customers see the EU organic logo or the Naturland seal, they know these products were independently verified to meet strict standards. It’s proof of care, quality, and transparency.”

Organic as a Promise of Integrity

For Marco Schlüter, Naturland’s Managing Director for Strategy and International Affairs, organic is more than a label. “Organic is not just a label—it’s a promise of integrity, transparency, and sustainability. By choosing organic, we work with nature, not against it.”

He emphasized that Naturland goes even further than EU standards by integrating fair employment practices, social benefits, and human rights protections across its farmer and producer networks.

Making Organic Part of Everyday Life

Over the next three years, the campaign will roll out:
  • Consumer education programs to explain the value of organic food.
  • Partnerships with trade commissions and B2B stakeholders to make organic products more accessible.
  • Local collaborations to encourage adoption of EU-certified organic goods in Philippine markets.

Schlüter concluded: “Our mission is to make organic accessible to every Juan. By empowering Filipino consumers and businesses, we can build a healthier, more sustainable food system together.”

Organic food isn’t just a lifestyle trend—it’s a movement toward healthier families, stronger communities, and a more sustainable planet. With Naturland’s “Nurturing Every Juan” campaign, Filipinos now have more opportunities to make informed choices that benefit both people and the environment.

Follow the European Organic for Every Juan Facebook page to learn more about events, tips, and updates on organic living in the Philippines.
Read More

Boomi Appoints Keyur Ajmera as CIO to Drive AI Growth


A Strategic Appointment for Boomi’s Next Growth Chapter

Boomi™, a leader in AI-driven automation, has named Keyur Ajmera as its new Chief Information Officer (CIO). In his role, Ajmera will lead Boomi’s global IT strategy, enterprise systems, cybersecurity, and digital operations, ensuring the company is equipped to scale rapidly while embracing its ambitious agentic transformation journey.

Reporting to Val Rainey, President of Global Operations and CFO, Ajmera’s appointment underscores Boomi’s commitment to strengthening its IT foundation and accelerating innovation at scale.

A Veteran Leader with Global Experience

Ajmera brings over 20 years of enterprise IT leadership across industries and geographies. Most recently, he served as SVP of Technology Operations and Innovation at Towne Park, and before that, he made his mark as the first CIO of iCIMS, where he spearheaded major digital transformation initiatives.

His career also spans leadership roles at AppDynamics (a Cisco company), PwC, INTTRA, and Deutsche Bank. With expertise in AI adoption, data analytics, cybersecurity, product lifecycle management, and M&A integration, Ajmera is widely recognized for driving both cultural and technical transformations in global organizations.

Boomi CEO Steve Lucas highlighted why Ajmera’s appointment is a strategic milestone. “Keyur is a forward-thinking and versatile leader with deep expertise in scaling technology organizations. His appointment is another milestone in Boomi’s growth trajectory as we continue to expand globally and accelerate operations for AI. With his leadership, Boomi will further strengthen its IT and security foundation, harness data to unlock value, and deliver on our vision of agentic transformation.”

For his part, Ajmera expressed excitement about joining Boomi at such a pivotal moment. “As AI reshapes industries, success depends on connected, trusted data. Boomi is uniquely positioned to help enterprises simplify complexity and unlock new value through agentic AI. I look forward to strengthening Boomi’s IT foundation so we can scale confidently and showcase the transformative power of our platform.”

Why This Appointment Matters for AI-Driven Enterprises

Ajmera’s appointment comes at a time when enterprises worldwide are doubling down on AI adoption and digital transformation. With his extensive track record, Boomi is positioning itself to:
  • Scale global operations with a resilient IT backbone.
  • Strengthen cybersecurity as enterprises face evolving digital threats.
  • Accelerate agentic AI adoption, helping organizations simplify complexity and harness connected data.

As Boomi continues its global expansion, the appointment of Keyur Ajmera signals a clear focus on operational excellence, innovation, and AI-powered transformation. For enterprises navigating complexity, this move highlights Boomi’s commitment to delivering secure, scalable, and intelligent solutions.

Businesses aiming to leverage AI and automation at scale should keep an eye on Boomi’s evolving leadership and technology strategies.

Read More

Mars Philippines Champions Pet Adoption at Run Fur Life


Why Pet Adoption Matters More Than Ever

Pets are more than companions—they’re lifelines. From easing stress to providing unconditional love, animals transform the way people live and feel. That’s why Mars Philippines, the pet care company behind beloved brands like PEDIGREE®, ROYAL CANIN®, WHISKAS®, and CESAR®, is stepping up its mission to tackle pet homelessness through the second annual Mars Global Adoption Weekend (GAW).

This year’s initiative has expanded to more than 20 countries worldwide, spotlighting how adopting a shelter pet doesn’t just change an animal’s life—it transforms the owner’s as well. In the Philippines, the movement kicked off with a heartwarming partnership with the Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF) at the 10th anniversary of Run Fur Life in Manila.

Celebrating 10 Years of “Run Fur Life” with a Purpose


More than 1,000 participants—both human and canine—joined the 2025 Run Fur Life, celebrating the bond between pets and their humans. At the heart of the event was BB the dog, a three-legged rescue and AKF’s adoption advocate, who served as the mascot for the campaign.

BB’s story proves a powerful point: shelter dogs, despite difficult pasts, can thrive and bring joy in their forever homes. This message aligns with global findings from the 2025 Mars & CALM PAWS Survey, which revealed that 83% of pet parents say their pets have improved their mental wellbeing.

Beyond the Event: Mars’ Commitment to Shelter Pets

Mars Philippines has been supporting the local pet community for more than 30 years through partnerships with NGOs, vets, and advocacy groups. This year, the company is going further with its #TwoLivesChanged campaign, donating 30,000 daily pet meals to shelters.

From October 2025, every purchase of PEDIGREE® and WHISKAS® through Mars’ official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok will contribute to shelter donations—making it easy for pet lovers to be part of the cause.

“Adopting a shelter pet changes two lives. It’s not only the pet’s life that is transformed, but the human’s as well,” shared Deng Osite, Sales Director of Mars Petcare Philippines.

Partnerships that Make Adoption Possible

For AKF, celebrating a decade of Run Fur Life alongside Mars is proof of progress. “Together, we’ve built initiatives such as WeR4HappyTails.com, which connects families with adoptable cats and dogs from partner shelters,” said Atty. Heidi Marquez-Caguioa, Program Director of AKF.

This adoption portal not only promotes responsible pet ownership but also makes it easier for aspiring pet parents to find their perfect match.

Changing Mindsets, One Adoption at a Time

Pet adoption in the Philippines remains in the low single digits, but the impact is profound. Each adoption represents two lives changed—an animal’s and a human’s. With 49% of Gen Z dog owners and 42% of young cat owners in the Philippines saying their pets are the most important part of their lives, the next generation is already shaping a future where pets are family.

Through Global Adoption Weekend, Mars and AKF are challenging perceptions about shelter pets, proving that adoption is not just an option—it’s the better choice.

Adopting a shelter pet is more than an act of kindness—it’s a life-changing decision for both sides. With Mars Philippines and AKF leading the charge, every Filipino has the chance to open their home and heart to a new companion.

Ready to change two lives? Explore adoption opportunities or support shelters through Mars’ official stores online.

Read More
Subscribe to: Comments (Atom)
...