Alsons Dev Leads Davao’s First Culture and Arts Summit

Alsons Dev Leads Davao’s First Culture and Arts Summit

Sunday, October 5, 2025

Alsons Dev Champions Davao’s Creative Future at the First Culture, Arts, and Heritage Summit

Davao City took a major step in celebrating its rich cultural identity as Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) co-organized the first-ever Davao City Culture, Arts, and Heritage Summit on September 26, 2025, held at the Holy Cross of Davao College.

In partnership with the Davao City Office for Culture and the Arts (OCA), the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Inc. (CLAFI), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the event marked a groundbreaking effort to bridge dialogue among artists, educators, policymakers, and private sector leaders working to strengthen Davao’s creative and cultural landscape.

A Space for Cultural Dialogue and Collaboration

The summit became a vibrant platform for collaboration and insight-sharing, emphasizing how culture, arts, and heritage fuel sustainable and inclusive development.

Among the thought leaders who shared their expertise were:

Luz Ilagan, President of the Davao Historical Society, who reflected on the cultural value of the Kadayawan Festival;

Rob Tañedo, Creative Director of La Herencia, who discussed the challenges and opportunities of regional creative work; and

Professor Aya Ragragio of UP Mindanao, who explored the themes of cultural appreciation, appropriation, and artists’ rights.

From the public sector, Engr. Kat Salvador of DTI’s Creative Industries Development Office highlighted the need for multi-stakeholder collaboration to uplift artists’ welfare, while NCCA Deputy Director Marichu Tellano presented the Philippine Development Plan for Culture and the Arts, outlining a vision for a thriving national creative economy.

The event was also attended by prominent figures including Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre (representing Acting Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte), Councilor Petite Principe, CLAFI Executive Director Ryan Vidanes, Gawad CCP Para sa Sining Awardee Nestor Horfilla, and singer-songwriter and Datu Bago Awardee Joey Ayala—signifying strong local and institutional support for cultural advancement.

“This summit marks an important alignment between the city, the creative community, and private organizations like Alsons Dev,” said Oscar Casaysay of the Davao City Office for Culture and the Arts. “The outcomes will ensure that culture and heritage remain at the heart of Davao’s development.”

A Celebration of Creativity and Collaboration

The summit also served as part of Davao’s Creative Industries Month, which continued with the Creative Industry Exchange (CIEx)—a two-day event featuring creatives fairs, workshops, forums, and performances celebrating local talent and entrepreneurship.

Through these events, Davao City reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing a sustainable creative ecosystem that honors tradition while embracing innovation.

Alsons Dev: Building Communities Rooted in Culture

For Alsons Dev, participating in the summit is an extension of its long-standing mission to build communities that balance progress with cultural integrity.

“We believe livable communities are built not only through infrastructure but also through the cultural foundations that make Davao unique,” said Alsons Dev Executive Vice President Miguel Dominguez. “We will continue to support initiatives that strengthen culture, arts, and heritage as we shape the city’s future together.”

By collaborating with institutions like OCA, CLAFI, and NCCA, Alsons Dev continues to demonstrate that development and heritage can thrive hand in hand, shaping Davao into a city where creativity, identity, and sustainability coexist.

A Legacy of Culture and Connection

Through its active involvement in the Culture, Arts, and Heritage Summit, Alsons Dev reinforced its vision of fostering vibrant, inclusive, and culturally grounded communities. The event not only highlighted the importance of collaboration among local sectors but also set the stage for future programs that celebrate Davao’s creative spirit.

Alsons Dev’s leadership in this cultural milestone shows that the private sector plays a vital role in preserving heritage while promoting sustainable growth. It’s a powerful reminder that progress rooted in culture leads to stronger, more connected communities.

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FSSI Empowers Filipina Social Entrepreneurs for Rural Growth

FSSI Empowers Filipina Social Entrepreneurs for Rural Growth

Empowered Women, Empowered Communities: FSSI Champions Filipina Social Entrepreneurs Driving Sustainable Rural Growth

Rural poverty continues to affect millions of Filipinos, particularly farmers and fisherfolk. But across the country, a new wave of Filipina social entrepreneurs is proving that empowerment and innovation can change that story.

Guided by the triple bottom line (3BL) framework—People, Planet, and Profit—the Foundation for a Sustainable Society, Inc. (FSSI) supports women-led cooperatives that are redefining rural development. By combining livelihood, environmental care, and social equity, these changemakers are helping build a more sustainable and inclusive future for their communities.

Celebrating 30 Years of Impact: FSSI Honors Women-Led Enterprises

At its 30th anniversary celebration held on September 5, 2025, FSSI honored social enterprises driving inclusive growth and innovation through its first-ever Triple Bottomline (3BL) Awards. Many of these enterprises were led by women—proof that leadership and compassion can coexist in building stronger rural economies.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, rural poverty remains at 25.7%, underscoring the importance of empowering local leaders. These women entrepreneurs, many from agricultural cooperatives, are stepping up to tackle long-standing challenges such as low farmgate prices, high production costs, and limited access to markets and funding.

From Struggle to Strength: Stories of Resilient Cooperatives

In Echague, Isabela, the Caviteño Isabelino Multipurpose Cooperative (CAISA-MPC), led by Maria Victoria Anahaw, has been addressing issues like climate change, pest infestations, and lack of capital. With FSSI’s training, seminars, and capital loans, CAISA-MPC strengthened its operations, expanded its agri-business initiatives—from pineapple processing to rice milling—and introduced sustainable practices like bamboo planting and zero open burning.

“Through FSSI’s support, we’ve trained our members, provided access to financing, and built a cooperative that uplifts the entire community,” shared Anahaw. “From a small credit co-op, we’ve grown into a multipurpose cooperative with 800 members and services that truly improve lives.”

Meanwhile, in Occidental Mindoro, the Lourdes Multipurpose Cooperative (MPC) operates an FSSI-funded agri-supply store that offers affordable, quality products and loans for its farmer-members.

“It’s more than just a store—it empowers farmers to take control of their production,” said Jesrryl Maye Obispo Agnas, Branch Manager of Lourdes MPC. “We prioritize our members’ needs and ensure the quality and safety of every product we offer.”

Both cooperatives exemplify how local innovation and women’s leadership can create ripple effects that uplift entire communities.

FSSI’s Commitment to People, Planet, and Profit

Through financial support and capacity building, FSSI ensures that these enterprises not only grow sustainably but also remain rooted in their communities’ welfare. Executive Director Sixto Donato C. Macasaet highlighted that empowering women leaders is key to long-term transformation:

“Filipina social entrepreneurs show that real rural development starts with empowered leadership. FSSI will continue investing in accessible capital, upgraded technologies, and continuous learning to help them lead and thrive.”

Redefining Gender Roles in Agriculture

In a sector traditionally dominated by men, these women-led cooperatives are breaking barriers. They lead with empathy, collaboration, and strength, proving that women’s leadership is essential for inclusive growth. Their efforts are not only transforming local economies but also reshaping how rural communities perceive women in leadership roles.

Moving Forward: Building Sustainable Communities, One Enterprise at a Time

With organizations like FSSI providing steady support, more women are now taking the lead in climate-conscious, inclusive enterprises. Their success stories show that when Filipino women are empowered, entire communities grow stronger, greener, and more self-reliant.

FSSI’s 3BL model demonstrates that sustainable progress is possible when profit, people, and the planet grow together. Supporting women-led social enterprises isn’t just good economics—it’s a step toward a more inclusive and resilient Philippines.

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Cobra and TESDA Empower Filipinos Through Skills Training

Cobra and TESDA Empower Filipinos Through Skills Training

Cobra Energy Drink and TESDA Empower Filipinos with Skills and Strength to Chase Their Dreams

Cobra Energy Drink is proving once again that it’s more than just a boost in a bottle. Through its flagship initiative, “Tatag sa Pagtupad ng Pangarap Kasama ang TESDA Program,” the brand is helping hardworking Filipinos gain the skills, confidence, and hope they need to start anew.

In partnership with TESDA NCR – PAMAMARISAN District Office and DOLE-TUPAD, Cobra’s program provided 29 #TeamLakas beneficiaries with free technical-vocational training, TESDA competency assessments, and a special Cobra “Panimula Kit” to help jumpstart their careers and small businesses.

For many underemployed, unemployed, and displaced workers, this program was more than training—it was a second chance to rebuild their lives and dreams after the pandemic.

Real Stories of Determination and Hope

The beneficiaries’ journeys reflect the strength and perseverance that Cobra celebrates through its #TeamLakas movement.

Take Judy Baliwag Lomboy, who took up Bread and Pastry Production after facing financial struggles. She shared that her family became her inspiration to complete the course. “Ako’y lubos na nagpapasalamat sa pagkakataon na maging matagumpay sa aking tinatahak na landas,” Judy said, grateful for the opportunity that reignited her purpose.

For Jennelbel Amulat, a Housekeeping course graduate, the program opened doors to work abroad and pursue business ventures. “Dahil po sa programa ng Cobra, TESDA, at DOLE-TUPAD, makakapagsimula ulit ako sa aking hanapbuhay… Para sa kapwa kong #TeamLakas, laban lang tayo,” she encouraged.

Meanwhile, Jonalyn Yarra Abogado now juggles part-time work while preparing to apply overseas. “Maraming salamat sa Cobra at sa lahat ng parte ng programang ito dahil hindi sila nagdalawang-isip na tumulong sa aming nangangailangan,” she shared.

Each TESDA National Certificate wasn’t just a piece of paper—it symbolized new beginnings and a renewed sense of strength. Complemented by the Cobra “Panimula Kit,” the graduates gained practical tools to help them start their livelihoods with confidence.

A Brand with Heart: Cobra’s Mission to Empower Every Filipino

Cobra Energy Drink’s initiative goes beyond energy—it embodies the brand’s mission to uplift and empower Filipinos across all walks of life.

Jonsell Del Mundo, Assistant Brand Manager of Cobra Energy Drink, shared how seeing the participants’ dedication firsthand was truly inspiring. He said that witnessing their determination to rebuild their lives motivates the brand to keep creating programs that truly make a difference.

Apple de Belen, Marketing Manager of Cobra Energy Drink, added that Cobra has always stood for strength, perseverance, and courage. “Through #TeamLakas, we’re proud to help Filipinos gain not only the energy for today but also the skills and opportunities that will change their lives for tomorrow,” she said.

Empowering a Nation One Dream at a Time

Through its continued collaboration with government agencies like TESDA and DOLE, Cobra Energy Drink is empowering Filipinos to turn determination into success stories. By investing in skills development, Cobra is showing that the real measure of “lakas” goes beyond physical energy—it’s about resilience, purpose, and the drive to create a better future.

Cobra’s partnership with TESDA and DOLE is a model for how brands can create real social impact. By fueling both energy and education, Cobra proves that empowerment is the strongest form of strength.

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DBM Adopts Blockchain for Transparent Government Budget

DBM Adopts Blockchain for Transparent Government Budget

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.

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UNLEASH Philippines 2025 Empowers Young Innovators to Shape the Future

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

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

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.

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

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.

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