Discovery Capital and Kredit Hero Empower Filipino SMEs

Discovery Capital and Kredit Hero Empower Filipino SMEs

Saturday, November 8, 2025

A powerful partnership for SME growth and financial inclusion

In a move that promises to reshape the financing landscape for Filipino entrepreneurs, Discovery Capital Finance Corporation (DCFC) has teamed up with fintech innovator Kredit Hero, Inc. to make business loans more accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country.

The new alliance combines Discovery Capital’s trusted lending experience with Kredit Hero’s cutting-edge AI technology, creating a partnership that champions the spirit of nation-building one business at a time.

Bringing Finance Closer to Filipino SMEs

For many Filipino entrepreneurs, access to capital remains a major hurdle. With this partnership, DCFC and Kredit Hero are bridging that gap through a hybrid financing model that combines Discovery Capital’s six on-ground offices with Kredit Hero’s nationwide digital reach.

According to Diosdado C. Salang Jr., President of Discovery Capital Finance Corp., the partnership goes beyond business growth, it’s about empowering local communities.

“This collaboration with Kredit Hero is more than just numbers on a balance sheet. It’s about giving entrepreneurs the support they need to thrive and, in turn, uplifting the communities they serve,” he shared.

Accelerating Access Through Technology

Through Kredit Hero’s AI-powered credit marketplace, SMEs can expect faster, more efficient loan processing. This technology-driven approach ensures that even unbanked and underbanked entrepreneurs can connect with financing options that suit their needs without the usual red tape.

The partnership focuses on four key goals:

Expand hybrid footprint: Merge DCFC’s physical offices with Kredit Hero’s online accessibility.

Promote financial inclusion: Reach underserved entrepreneurs across the Philippines.

Enhance borrower experience: Simplify loan processing with quicker approvals.

Boost local economies: Enable more SMEs to create jobs and sustain growth.

Nation-Building Through Inclusive Financing

Both companies share a vision rooted in inclusive growth. As SMEs are often called the backbone of the Philippine economy, this collaboration empowers them to scale up operations, invest in innovation, and strengthen their contribution to the country’s progress.

With Discovery Capital’s commitment to transparent lending and Kredit Hero’s AI-driven solutions, this partnership signals a new era for entrepreneurs—where access to funding is no longer a privilege but a right.

As local businesses continue to navigate post-pandemic recovery, this partnership offers hope and opportunity. It’s a reminder that when innovation meets purpose, Filipino entrepreneurs can dream bigger and achieve more.

If you’re an SME owner looking for financing solutions, keep an eye on Discovery Capital and Kredit Hero, this could be the partnership that helps you take your business to the next level.

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Manulife Philippines Expands Presence with New Agency Office in Makati City

Manulife Philippines Expands Presence with New Agency Office in Makati City

Friday, November 7, 2025

Strengthening its Mission to Empower More Filipino Families Through Financial Security

Global financial services leader Manulife continues to grow its footprint in the country with the opening of its newest agency office located on the 10th floor of Ayala North Exchange Tower 1 in Makati City.

This modern workspace will serve as a new home for Manulife’s expanding agency sales force, supporting its ongoing mission to help more Filipinos build stronger, more secure financial futures.

A New Chapter in Empowering Financial Advisors

Present during the opening ceremony were Rahul Hora, President and CEO of Manulife Philippines; Sailesh Nalinakshan, Chief Agency Officer; and Ian Mar Dayot, National Agency Sales Head  joined by the company’s financial advisors and agency leaders.

In his remarks, Hora emphasized the company’s dedication to growth and innovation:

“The opening of our Ayala North Exchange office marks an exciting milestone for Manulife Philippines. This new space reflects our commitment to empowering our growing agency force and strengthening our presence in Makati and across the NCR,” he said. “By investing in modern, collaborative environments, we enable our financial advisors to deliver exceptional service and solutions helping make decisions easier and lives better for our customers.”

Creating Modern, Collaborative Workspaces

The new Ayala North Exchange office is part of Manulife’s broader strategy to create spaces that foster collaboration, creativity, and purpose. The design reflects the company’s focus on empowering financial advisors to connect meaningfully with clients, making financial planning more accessible to Filipino families.

Located in the heart of Makati’s bustling business district, the new office gives Manulife’s advisors an ideal base to reach more customers in Metro Manila especially professionals and entrepreneurs who want to take charge of their financial well-being.

Commitment to Growth and Service Excellence

With this expansion, Manulife Philippines reinforces its long-standing presence in the country and its promise to be a trusted partner for every stage of the Filipino financial journey.

The company continues to provide a wide range of life insurance, investment, and financial protection solutions, backed by a growing network of advisors trained to guide Filipinos toward long-term financial stability.

This latest office opening signals Manulife’s continued investment in its people ensuring that its advisors have the right tools, training, and environment to thrive in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.

As financial literacy and long-term planning become more crucial than ever, Manulife’s expansion in Makati is a timely move. By creating more spaces for its advisors to collaborate and connect with clients, Manulife is showing that it’s not just about selling policies, it’s about building lasting relationships and empowering every Filipino family to dream bigger.

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GoTyme Bank Marks 3rd Year with 7.8M Customers

GoTyme Bank Marks 3rd Year with 7.8M Customers

A milestone that celebrates people, progress, and purpose

GoTyme Bank, one of the Philippines’ fastest-growing digital banks, is celebrating its third anniversary with a major milestone earning the trust of over 7.8 million Filipinos nationwide. Themed “Beautiful and Beyond,” the celebration highlights the bank’s commitment to making everyday banking simple, human, and inclusive.

In just three years, GoTyme Bank has gone from a promising startup to a financial powerhouse that’s redefining how Filipinos manage, save, and spend money. Its success story is built on three strong pillars: people, shared experiences, and a bold vision for the future of digital finance.

More than banking, it’s about building communities

Beyond offering digital financial services, GoTyme Bank puts people at the heart of everything it does. The brand’s rapid growth stems from strong collaborations with retail giants like Robinsons Retail, SM Retail, and innovative platforms such as Foodpanda, PayMongo, and TikTok Shop, which make GoTyme’s banking solutions accessible in everyday spaces.

But its reach doesn’t stop at business. GoTyme Bank has also been investing in Filipino talent through its Team GoTyme Bank campaign. The initiative supports local athletes including racing prodigy Bianca Bustamante, golfers Sean Ramos and Sara Eggesvik, football star Sandro Reyes, and triathlete Kira Ellis. The bank is also helping nurture future sports champions through partnerships with Arayat Athletics Academy and the Philippine Football Federation (PFF), where GoTyme proudly serves as the official bank partner.

Inclusive banking made simple and human

For GoTyme Bank, inclusivity means breaking barriers to financial access. The bank now boasts nearly 600 self-service kiosks and ATMs, supported by more than 1,000 banking ambassadors nationwide. Customers can conveniently deposit or withdraw at over 1,450 retail partner locations, including Robinsons Supermarket, Shopwise, Handyman, and Southstar Drug.

On the digital side, GoTyme continues to lead with practical innovations  from 20 free InstaPay transfers per month to 24/7 customer support via its award-winning GoHuman Experience.

The celebration also extended to the streets, with the Freedom Bus Activation giving commuters free rides and self-care kits along the Robinsons Antipolo–One Ayala route. The surprise visit of JG Summit Holdings President & CEO Lance Y. Gokongwei and actress Carla Abellana made the event even more memorable.

Connecting culture, sports, and lifestyle

GoTyme Bank’s anniversary celebration went beyond banking, blending Filipino culture, sportsmanship, and style. Football fans witnessed the GoTyme Bank Match Up, an international friendly between the Philippine Women’s National Team (Filipinas) and Uzbekistan at the Rizal Memorial Stadium last October 29.

Fashion enthusiasts got their share of fun too, with limited-edition PFF x GoTyme Bank streetwear jerseys designed by Syndrome, while foodies enjoyed “The Bleu Job,” a bleu cheese pizza collaboration with Jabroni’s NYC Pizza, proof that GoTyme knows how to celebrate in style.

Looking ahead: innovation and heart in every transaction

According to GoTyme Bank CEO Nate Clarke, the company’s journey has always been about humanizing banking:

“Three years ago, we set out to make banking inclusive, secure, and truly made for people. Today, over 7.8 million Filipinos have trusted GoTyme Bank, making us the fastest-growing bank in the country,” Clarke said. “Our next chapter is about staying close to our customers and showing up with heart and innovation where it matters most.”

As it steps into another year, GoTyme is preparing new features that make banking even more rewarding  including an enhanced MoreTyme Pay-in-12 installment option with fee cashback and continued free InstaPay transfers.

With innovation, empathy, and purpose guiding its growth, GoTyme Bank is well on its way to becoming the most loved retail bank in the Philippines  truly a reflection of “Banking Made Beautiful.”

Convenience and trust are key to financial inclusion and GoTyme Bank’s human-first approach is a refreshing shift. If you haven’t explored digital banking yet, this might just be the perfect time to start with GoTyme leading the way toward a more inclusive financial future.

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Honoring Blue Eagle Creativity: Ateneo Jubilarians Host “Origins Beyond Form” Art Auction and Exhibit

Honoring Blue Eagle Creativity: Ateneo Jubilarians Host “Origins Beyond Form” Art Auction and Exhibit

Art meets purpose this November as Ateneo de Manila’s jubilarians turn the spotlight on their very own homegrown artists. The much-anticipated art auction and exhibit titled “OBF: Origins Beyond Form” will take place on November 15, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Le Cordon Bleu, Arete, Ateneo de Manila University. This special gathering celebrates artistic excellence and community spirit, two things Ateneans have long been known for.

More than an art show, this event carries a heart for giving back, as proceeds will directly support Ateneo scholars, athletes and teachers who have shaped generations of Blue Eagles.

Celebrating Ateneo’s Artistic Legacy

The exhibit will showcase the creativity of Ateneo High School Batch 2000, featuring some of the country’s most recognized visual and design artists today. Among them are:

• Jomike Tejido, known for his vibrant visual art and architectural background.
• Quiccs Maiquez, a globally celebrated toy designer and graffiti artist whose works blend Japanese mecha with Filipino street art.
• Aaron Mempin, admired for his geometric abstract pieces.
• J.P. Mateo, another talent in the growing field of designer toys.

These artists bring their distinct styles and creative journeys “beyond form,” proving that Ateneo artistry transcends mediums and continues to inspire.

Art for a Cause

Guests can bid on exquisite pieces or purchase them at exclusive rates. What makes every purchase meaningful is that proceeds will benefit three causes close to the Ateneo community:

• The Ateneo Track and Field team, fueling the next generation of Blue Eagle athletes.
• The Order of the Blue Eagle Scholars, supporting financially challenged students.
• Salaguinto, the retirement fund for Ateneo Grade School faculty and staff—a tribute to the teachers who helped build the Atenean foundation of excellence.

In essence, “OBF: Origins Beyond Form” turns art appreciation into an act of gratitude.

Event Details and Registration

Tickets are priced at ₱1,000, which includes cocktails prepared by French chefs from Le Cordon Bleu Ateneo, a culinary experience in itself. Guests will also get a raffle entry for special prizes.

To join, simply register through this form:https://forms.gle/3R36oNedR6qZbRP59

This art auction and exhibit is part of the fundraising efforts leading up to Ateneo’s Grand Alumni Homecoming on December 6, 2025, a much-awaited reunion of generations of Blue Eagles.

For inquiries, you may contact RJ Villanueva at 0917-985-8769.

Why This Event Matters

Events like “Origins Beyond Form” showcase how the Ateneo spirit of excellence thrives not only in classrooms and careers but also in creativity and compassion. Supporting Filipino artists while giving back to the community reflects the essence of being men and women for others.

So, whether you’re an art lover, an Atenean, or simply someone who believes in purposeful creativity, this exhibit deserves a spot on your calendar.

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Filipinos Only Ready for Up to ₱50K in Emergencies – PURPLE Report

Filipinos Only Ready for Up to ₱50K in Emergencies – PURPLE Report

Tuesday, November 4, 2025

Many Filipinos still struggle to stay financially ready for life’s emergencies — here’s why.

Meet Pia, a 35-year-old senior executive, a loving wife, and a devoted mom of two. On paper, her life looks picture-perfect. But like many hardworking, middle-class Filipinos, she quietly worries about one thing: what happens when an emergency strikes?

According to the PURPLE Report, a study by EastWest Ageas in partnership with NielsenIQ, most Filipinos have only ₱50,000 in emergency savings barely enough to cover a major hospital bill or an unexpected crisis. Even more concerning, only 2 in 10 Filipinos have savings that could last over three months.

Why It’s Hard for Filipinos to Save

The report shows that 30% of an average Filipino’s income goes to basic needs like food, rent, transportation, and utilities. With such tight budgets, it’s no surprise that long-term financial planning often takes a backseat.

Still, the desire for security is strong. Over 52% of respondents said they worry about their loved ones’ health, while 24% are anxious about critical illnesses and the massive expenses that come with them.

Here’s the reality check: a study from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) found that ischemic heart disease remains the country’s leading cause of death  and the average treatment cost can soar to ₱690,000. That’s far beyond what most households can afford. Even with public healthcare and social welfare coverage, many families struggle when the family breadwinner can’t work.

The Readiness Gap

Interestingly, the PURPLE Report reveals that financial preparedness tends to improve with age. Those over 40 are more likely to have three months’ worth of emergency savings, while younger adults (22–39) admit to having less.

Economic pressures like inflation, income instability, and rising living costs make it even harder for Filipinos to grow their savings. In emergencies, many fall back on personal savings, family support, or informal loans, a system rooted in Filipino resilience and bayanihan, but one that exposes how fragile financial stability can be.

Bridging the Gap Between “Wanting to Be Ready” and “Being Ready”

Filipinos shouldn’t have to choose between paying bills today and saving for tomorrow. The report suggests that financial literacy, tailored insurance plans, and inclusive savings programs can help make preparedness more achievable.

“Readiness” isn’t just about having money set aside  it’s about access, education, and empathy. Every Filipino deserves a life that’s secure, with affordable healthcare and financial solutions designed for real-life needs.

If banks, insurers, and government programs work hand-in-hand to empower communities, then perhaps the next generation of “Pias” won’t just survive crises, they’ll thrive beyond them.

It’s Time to Redefine Readiness

We’ve all been in Pia’s shoes juggling bills, family, and goals while hoping life doesn’t throw us a curveball. The PURPLE Report reminds us that preparedness is possible, but it takes the right mindset, habits, and support systems.

Start small. Save a little. Learn often. Protect what matters. Because being ready isn’t just about money, it’s about peace of mind. 

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ASEAN Data Science Explorers 2025 Empowers Youth Innovators

ASEAN Data Science Explorers 2025 Empowers Youth Innovators

Filipino and ASEAN youth showcase tech-powered solutions for a sustainable, competitive region

In today’s digital era, data is more than just numbers — it’s power. And for hundreds of young changemakers across Southeast Asia, it’s also a tool to solve some of the region’s most pressing problems.

Held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the ASEAN Data Science Explorers (ASEAN DSE) 2025 Regional Finals brought together the brightest students from 10 ASEAN Member States. Organized by the ASEAN Foundation in collaboration with SAP, the event marked the ninth year of this regional competition that challenges students to turn data into actionable insights supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Data-Driven Ideas for Real-World Impact

Using the SAP Analytics Cloud, the finalists presented innovative projects tackling issues such as hunger, sanitation, sustainable cities, and climate action.

The top honor went to Team DataMinions from Lao PDR, whose project Namjai Smart Water Tank detects harmful substances in water and alerts communities and authorities to ensure clean, safe water access. Their innovation aims to address water quality issues across Lao PDR, Cambodia, and the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Team Mamamamoodeng from Thailand and Team MyKXLab from Malaysia secured the first and second runner-up spots, respectively.

“Seeing other teams’ projects was so inspiring,” shared Palinya Sengdalavong and Kounlasatty Manivong of Team DataMinions. “This experience encouraged us to keep improving and create a lasting impact for the ASEAN community.”

Filipino Finalists Spotlight the Water Crisis

Representing the Philippines, Team Sharksfin composed of Lizzie Annika Montemayor and Val Allen Eltagonde from Ateneo de Manila University tackled the region’s growing water crisis with their project HydroLink.

The system integrates a groundwater monitoring device with a mobile app and centralized dashboard, helping communities track water quality in real time.

“In areas like Panglao and Los Baños, residents face salinity and bacterial contamination in drinking water,” the team explained. “With HydroLink, we hope to transform a last-mile crisis into a first-mile opportunity for data generation and community empowerment.”

Bridging the Digital Skills Gap in ASEAN

The ASEAN DSE program addresses an urgent challenge: preparing the region’s youth for a data-driven global economy.

A 2022 ASEAN Foundation and Google study revealed that over 72% of underserved youth in ASEAN lack advanced digital skills, even as demand for data-savvy professionals rises. Through workshops and competitions, ASEAN DSE empowers young people especially those from underserved communities  to build technical skills, creativity, and confidence in solving regional challenges.

Since its inception in 2017, ASEAN DSE has reached over 111,000 youths and 3,300 educators, with 55% of participants being women  highlighting the program’s commitment to inclusivity and equality in tech.

Leaders Champion Digital Readiness

Supported by the Ministry of Education Malaysia under the ASEAN Chairmanship 2025, this year’s regional finals emphasized the importance of digital literacy for sustainable growth.

“The ASEAN DSE programme shows how collaboration can drive innovation and equip youth with future-ready skills,” said Dr. Mohd. Azam Ahmad, Director General of the Ministry of Education Malaysia. “It aligns with Malaysia’s Education Blueprint and prepares our young people to thrive in a digitally connected world.”

Echoing this, Dr. Piti Srisangnam, Executive Director of the ASEAN Foundation, described the initiative as a cornerstone in youth empowerment.

“By providing digital tools and data skills, we enable young talents to innovate and contribute to ASEAN’s development,” he said.

Liher Urbizu, President and Managing Director of SAP Southeast Asia, added:

“Our collaboration with ASEAN Foundation reinforces SAP’s mission to empower the next generation with entrepreneurial and digital skills that can drive positive change.”

The Future Is Data-Driven and Youth-Led

The ASEAN DSE 2025 Regional Finals prove that the youth aren’t just future leaders, they’re already shaping solutions today. From fighting climate change to solving water crises, these students are turning insights into impact, data into development, and dreams into action.

For Filipino youth, it’s a reminder that the power to create change lies in curiosity, creativity, and collaboration with data as their strongest ally.

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Couchbase 8.0 Launches Unified AI Data Platform

Couchbase 8.0 Launches Unified AI Data Platform

A unified, high-speed data platform designed for AI innovation and scalability

Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform the way we work, create, and connect—and now, Couchbase 8.0 is helping developers take those innovations even further. The latest version of the developer data platform officially brings end-to-end AI lifecycle support to enterprises, empowering them to build fast, reliable, and scalable AI-driven applications at a lower cost.

Whether for startups exploring AI chatbots or enterprises deploying agentic systems, Couchbase 8.0 delivers what today’s developers need most: speed, precision, and flexibility.

Why Couchbase 8.0 Matters for AI Development

According to Couchbase, the new release introduces three powerful vector indexing and retrieval technologies that make it easier for developers to manage massive AI data workloads in real time. These include:

Hyperscale Vector Index (HVI): Built for billion-scale datasets, this index delivers lightning-fast vector searches with millisecond latency.

Composite Vector Index: Allows pre-filtered queries to refine vector searches for more targeted, contextual results.

Search Vector Index: Supports hybrid searches combining vector, text, and structured data in a single query.

These features make Couchbase a unified data platform capable of managing structured and unstructured information—a crucial advantage for real-time, context-aware AI applications.

Proven Billion-Scale Performance

Independent benchmark tests revealed that Couchbase’s Hyperscale Vector Index can handle massive datasets without sacrificing accuracy or speed.

Performance test: Up to 19,057 queries per second (QPS) with 28ms latency and 66% recall accuracy

Accuracy test: Over 700 QPS at 93% recall accuracy with sub-second response times

Compared to a leading cloud database competitor, Couchbase performed 3,100x faster in speed tests and 350x more efficient in accuracy tests, showcasing its unparalleled scalability for large-scale AI workloads.

“Scaling AI requires a developer platform built for speed and reliability,” said Matt McDonough, SVP of Product at Couchbase. “With end-to-end RAG workflows and our Hyperscale Vector Indexing, Couchbase helps organizations create trustworthy, high-performance AI systems while keeping costs low.”

Enhanced Security for Enterprise-Grade AI

Security remains a top concern for enterprises embracing AI. Couchbase 8.0 directly addresses this by introducing native data-at-rest encryption (DARE) and Key Management Interoperability Protocol (KMIP) support  ensuring that sensitive data remains safe, encrypted, and compliant across environments.

It also strengthens cross data center replication (XDCR) for improved reliability and disaster recovery, ensuring that even globally distributed businesses can meet data residency requirements while maintaining performance and uptime.

Simplifying AI Development for All Skill Levels

Couchbase 8.0 isn’t just for seasoned developers, it’s built to help teams of all skill levels create AI applications efficiently.

Developers can now use natural language queries (instead of complex SQL++ code) to interact with data, making the platform more accessible. Additional tools such as query workload repositories and user-defined search synonyms further enhance productivity and troubleshooting.

“By simplifying complex data architectures and integrating vector capabilities, Couchbase makes AI development faster and more accessible,” said Kate Holterhoff, Senior Analyst at RedMonk.

AI Development, Reimagined

As the Philippines continues to grow its digital economy, Couchbase 8.0 arrives at the perfect time. From AI-driven customer service to predictive analytics and creative automation, this unified data platform gives Filipino developers and enterprises the tools to scale innovation confidently.

If you’re building the next big AI solution or want to streamline your data infrastructure, Couchbase 8.0 might just be the secret weapon your development team has been waiting for.

Try it today at www.couchbase.com.

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