Vena Energy Leads Coastal Clean-Up at Talim Island Rizal

Wednesday, November 12, 2025


Vena Energy Leads the Way in Protecting Rizal’s Shorelines

When it comes to walking the talk on sustainability, Vena Energy continues to set the bar high. The leading renewable energy company in the Asia Pacific region recently held a Coastal Clean-Up at Talim Island, Binangonan, Rizal, on November 6, reinforcing its mission to protect the environment and empower the communities it serves.

The clean-up, which benefitted Barangay Gulod, is the third in a six-part series of environmental drives led by Vena Energy in the province. Each initiative strengthens the company’s vision of building a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Philippines one community at a time.

Working Hand-in-Hand with the Community

The event was organized in partnership with the Barangay Council of Gulod, showcasing how corporate and community cooperation can create a powerful force for positive change.


Vena Energy employees joined local residents in cleaning the shores of Laguna de Bay. Registration and assembly took place along the Coastal Road near the Municipal Annex, with volunteers hitting the shoreline from 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM. Together, they collected debris and litter, helping prevent pollution from reaching the waters of the country’s largest lake.

“Our commitment to sustainable energy is tied to the well-being of the communities we serve,” shared a Vena Energy representative. “Through efforts like this, we aim to protect both the environment and the livelihoods that depend on it.”

Beyond Energy: A Culture of Environmental Stewardship

For Vena Energy, sustainability doesn’t stop at generating clean power—it also means ensuring the health of the ecosystems that sustain local life. By taking a hands-on approach to conservation, the company continues to prove that environmental protection and business growth can go hand in hand.

The clean-up concluded with a brief fellowship among participants, celebrating teamwork and shared responsibility for the planet. Volunteers were reminded that even small acts like picking up trash can make a lasting impact on the community’s future.

Looking Ahead: More Clean-Ups to Come

The Talim Island clean-up is just the beginning. Vena Energy has lined up similar initiatives in other Rizal barangays including Navotas, Subay, and Boor in the coming weeks. Each event strengthens the company’s ongoing environmental advocacy and reinforces its partnerships with local government units and residents.

Through these efforts, Vena Energy continues to redefine what it means to be a sustainable energy leader not only by generating renewable power but also by championing environmental action and community care.

With climate change and pollution affecting coastal communities, efforts like Vena Energy’s clean-up drives serve as vital reminders that sustainability starts with collective action. If more companies followed suit, cleaner shorelines and healthier communities wouldn’t just be a goal, they’d be our reality. 
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LIFT Energizes Bacolod with Dare to Switch at MassKara

Monday, November 10, 2025


Coca-Cola’s newest drink energizes Bacolod with its fearless and fun spirit

The MassKara Festival in Bacolod is known for its colorful masks, non-stop street parties, and contagious energy  and this year, Coca-Cola Philippines’ newest drink, LIFT, brought an extra jolt of excitement to the city’s biggest celebration.

For the first time ever, LIFT joined the festivities, lighting up Lacson Street with a three-day activation that dared festival-goers to push their limits and embrace the brand’s bold, challenger mindset through its “Dare to Switch” campaign.

High-Energy Fun: The Dare to Switch Experience

Thousands of festival-goers flocked to the LIFT booth, one of the most talked-about attractions during MassKara weekend. Attendees faced a series of exciting challenges designed to test strength, agility, and focus  all while showcasing their fearless side.

Participants navigated their way through the LIFT Maze, showed off their power at the LIFT UpBar, unleashed creativity at the LIFT Art Photo Wall, and tested precision in the LIFT Bottle Up Challenge. Each station encouraged Bacolodnons to step out of their comfort zones, have fun, and celebrate their unstoppable energy,  the same traits that define both MassKara and LIFT.

The result? Non-stop laughter, friendly competition, and countless share-worthy moments across social media as attendees documented their victories and snapped selfies with the brand’s signature orange-and-yellow setup.

Celebrating Confidence and the Filipino Spirit

The activation perfectly mirrored the MassKara Festival’s theme of resilience and optimism, values that LIFT proudly champions.

“LIFT’s first-ever MassKara activation was a celebration of the bold spirit that defines both the brand and the festival,” shared Frenissa Mae Lagman, Frontline Marketing Senior Director of Coca-Cola Philippines. “MassKara is all about uplifting the Filipino spirit, and LIFT embodies that same drive  to face every challenge with confidence and dare to switch when it’s time to level up.”

As the festival came to a close, LIFT left Bacolod buzzing energizing thousands of attendees and inspiring them to take on life’s challenges with renewed confidence and excitement.

Fueling the Challenger Mindset Nationwide

Following its successful MassKara debut, LIFT is gearing up to bring the Dare to Switch experience to more regions across the Philippines. Bacolod may have been the first to experience the brand’s electric presence, but more Filipinos can look forward to their own taste of LIFT’s bold, refreshing energy soon.

Ready to make the switch? LIFT is now available in sari-sari stores across Western Visayas, perfect for anyone who’s up for a challenge and ready to power up their day.

Stay tuned for upcoming events and nationwide activations by following LIFT Philippines on Facebook and Instagram.
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GoTyme Bank Partners with Wise Platform to Revolutionize International Remittances for Filipinos


Faster, cheaper, and more transparent cross-border transfers now possible through GoTyme Bank app

Sending money home just got easier, faster, and smarter for millions of Filipino families. GoTyme Bank, one of the Philippines’ fastest-growing digital banks, has officially partnered with Wise Platform, the global leader in payment infrastructure.

This landmark collaboration makes GoTyme Bank the first Wise Platform partner in the Philippines and Wise’s first International Receive partner in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. Together, they’re empowering over 7.8 million Filipinos with seamless, low-cost, and transparent international remittances through the GoTyme Bank app.

Redefining How Filipinos Receive Money from Abroad

For decades, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families have faced steep remittance fees, hidden charges, and long processing times. The GoTyme–Wise partnership tackles these long-standing challenges head-on by integrating Wise’s trusted global infrastructure directly into the GoTyme Bank app.

Customers can now receive money from over 11,000 banks worldwide via SWIFT, covering 23 major currencies such as USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, and SGD  all with transparent pricing and faster settlement.

With just a few taps, users can view and share their GoTyme account details, making it easier for senders abroad to transfer funds directly to the Philippines. Once received, customers can withdraw their remittances for free at over 1,400 Robinsons Retail partner stores nationwide, ensuring accessibility even without traditional bank branches.

Empowering Families and Building a More Inclusive Financial Future

Remittances are a lifeline for millions of Filipino households. In 2024 alone, OFWs sent home over US$38 billion, contributing significantly to the nation’s economy. However, Wise research shows that Filipinos lost around USD 170 million (₱9.74 billion) that same year due to hidden fees and poor exchange rates.

This new integration changes that. By making remittances faster, fairer, and more transparent, GoTyme Bank and Wise Platform are helping families get the full value of every peso sent  turning overseas earnings into opportunities for education, livelihood, and growth.

“Our collaboration with Wise is about creating a trusted remittance experience that feels effortless,” said Nate Clarke, President and CEO of GoTyme Bank. “By pairing Wise’s world-class technology and global network with GoTyme Bank’s simple, beautiful banking, we’re redefining how Filipinos support their families, grow their ambitions, and stay connected to what matters most.”


“This partnership exemplifies Wise’s mission to build the infrastructure for the world’s money,” added Samarth Bansal, APAC General Manager of Wise Platform. “GoTyme Bank is the first in the Philippines to break away from hidden charges and slow speeds on SWIFT payments. For 14 years, Wise has been building better cross-border systems  and now, Filipinos can benefit from this innovation through GoTyme.”

A New Era for Cross-Border Banking

As Filipinos increasingly expect global payments to be as seamless as local transfers, this partnership sets a new benchmark for digital banking in the Philippines. Combining GoTyme’s customer-first approach with Wise’s trusted global network, the two companies are bringing world-class financial access to millions of Filipinos  both at home and abroad.

This collaboration isn’t just about faster transactions, it’s about empowering real connections between families and communities, wherever they are in the world.

To experience smarter, faster remittances, download the GoTyme Bank app and start receiving money from abroad with no hidden fees, just real value.
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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

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


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

Poster for the Ateneo High School Batch 2000 art auction and exhibit titled “Origins Beyond Form,” featuring artworks by Jomike Tejido, Quiccs Maiquez, Aaron Mempin, and J.P. Mateo. The event supports Ateneo scholars, athletes, and teachers, happening on November 15, 2025, at Le Cordon Bleu, Arete, Ateneo de Manila University.

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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