Schneider Electric Pushes for Safer, Smarter Electrical Systems as Fire Risks Rise in the Philippines

Schneider Electric Pushes for Safer, Smarter Electrical Systems as Fire Risks Rise in the Philippines

Tuesday, November 25, 2025

Filipino homes and buildings are getting busier as more appliances, more gadgets, more daily energy needs. But while our lifestyles have evolved, many electrical systems haven’t. With fire incidents linked to outdated wiring and overloaded circuits steadily increasing, Schneider Electric is calling for a nationwide shift toward safer, smarter, and more resilient electrical design. For homeowners, developers, and property managers, this is a wake-up call: electrical safety is no longer optional.

The Alarming Reality: Outdated Wiring Still Puts Filipinos at Risk

Despite modern living demands, many properties still rely on old, undersized, and poorly maintained electrical setups. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has identified overloaded circuits, undersized wiring, and even the common “octopus connection” as top causes of electrical fires. In 2024, the country logged 1,800 more fire incidents caused by electrical faults compared to the year before.

With Filipinos using more appliances such as AC units, water heaters, work-from-home devices, gaming rigs, many systems simply can’t keep up.

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology leader with over 30 years in the Philippines, stresses that the solution lies in stronger, scalable, and future-ready electrical design.

Five Must-Have Elements for a Safer, Stronger Electrical Foundation

Schneider Electric highlights five key priorities that should guide today’s electrical planning for homes, businesses, and industrial facilities.

1. Proper Circuit Protection = Reduced Fire Risk

Modern appliances draw higher loads, making circuit protection more important than ever. Schneider Electric emphasizes the use of automatic circuit breakers that quickly detect faults and shut down power to prevent fires, shocks, and equipment damage.

Their products like Easy9, EasyPact EZC, and MVS circuit breakers are designed to respond rapidly to dangerous electrical conditions — a crucial safeguard for condos, offices, malls, and factories.

2. Backup Power is Essential for Business Continuity

Power interruptions aren’t just an inconvenience, they’re expensive. Consumer advocacy group ILAW reports that MSMEs lose ₱10,000 to ₱30,000 per day, while large businesses can lose up to ₱100,000 daily due to outages.

To minimize losses, Schneider Electric recommends using APC Easy UPS and Easy UPS On–Line, which offer automatic backup and surge protection for critical equipment. MSMEs, call centers, clinics, and data-driven businesses can stay operational even during grid fluctuations.

3. Real-Time Energy Monitoring Helps Cut Costs

The Department of Energy recorded ₱400 million in savings from energy efficiency programs in early 2024, proof that smart monitoring works.

Schneider Electric’s Power Monitoring Expert provides businesses with real-time updates, alerts, carbon tracking, and even WAGES (water, air, gas, electricity, steam) insights. These data points help organizations optimize operations, reduce waste, and make smarter financial decisions.

4. Avoid Risks by Using Certified, Durable Switches & Sockets

In 2025, the Department of Trade and Industry seized ₱134 million worth of uncertified electrical products  many linked to fire and electrocution hazards.

Schneider Electric stresses the importance of safe, durable components. Their AvatarOn A line includes universal sockets, child-proof shutters, USB ports, and heat-resistant materials  ideal for Filipino households that value both function and aesthetic.

5. Scalable, Sustainable Power for Digital-Driven Businesses

With more companies relying on data centers and cloud-based tools, power infrastructure must be scalable. Schneider Electric’s Easy UPS 3-Phase Modular offers live swap capability, letting facilities upgrade power modules without shutting down operations  perfect for banks, hospitals, logistics hubs, and IT parks.

This flexibility supports the country’s growing digital economy while ensuring safety and efficiency.

Strengthening Electrical Safety for Filipino Communities

Schneider Electric Philippines Country Solutions Head Harold Lim underscores that well-designed electrical systems are essential for community safety and business continuity. He stresses that proper electrical planning “prevents hazards, protects people and property, and supports national development.”

With global recognition as Time Magazine and Statista’s World’s Most Sustainable Company, Schneider Electric continues to champion solutions that help Filipinos build safer, smarter, and more energy-resilient spaces.

Modern Living Needs Modern Electrical Design

Electrical safety is a long-term investment. Whether you're building a new home, upgrading an office, or managing a commercial property, choosing certified components and future-ready systems will save money, prevent fires, and give you peace of mind.

If you’ve been delaying an electrical upgrade, now is the time to act. A safer home  and community  starts with smarter choices.

Read More

TP Philippines Scores Double Wins at the 2025 Asian Technology Excellence Awards

TP Philippines Scores Double Wins at the 2025 Asian Technology Excellence Awards

Filipino excellence in tech takes center stage once again as TP in the Philippines—part of global digital services leader Teleperformance—brings home two major awards at the Asian Technology Excellence Awards (ATEA) 2025. In an era where AI and analytics shape the future of customer experience, these wins spotlight how the Philippines remains at the forefront of world-class digital innovation.

For industries relying heavily on customer engagement like e-commerce, retail, fintech, and telecommunications, TP’s award-winning technologies signal a stronger, smarter, and more efficient customer support ecosystem right here in the country.

Award-Winning AI: TP.AI FAB Leads the Way in Intelligent Automation

TP received the Philippines Technology Excellence Award for AI – Business Services for its TP.AI FAB platform, an in-house AI orchestration solution designed to merge automation with human expertise.

This advanced engine allows organizations to deploy AI at scale, making processes faster, smarter, and more efficient. Through this innovation, businesses can automate high-volume tasks while ensuring human judgment remains central to critical decisions.

In essence, TP.AI FAB gives companies the power to streamline operations without sacrificing accuracy or the quality of customer interactions.

Data-Driven Customer Experience: TP Interact Wins Big for Analytics–Retail

TP also bagged the Philippines Technology Excellence Award for Analytics – Retail for TP Interact, its next-generation analytics and quality automation tool powered by Generative AI.

TP Interact:

• transcribes conversations across channels,
• analyzes them in real time, and
• automatically scores interactions for quality and customer intent.

This means businesses get clearer insights faster, allowing them to enhance customer journeys, improve team performance, and identify growth opportunities all through one intelligent platform.

With retail and e-commerce booming in the Philippines, tools like TP Interact are helping brands keep up with evolving customer expectations while staying competitive in a digital-first landscape.

Raising the Bar for Customer Experience in the Philippines

These back-to-back awards highlight TP’s commitment to shaping the future of customer experience through AI-powered solutions and data-driven decision-making. Their innovations continue to help organizations achieve measurable results from greater operational efficiency to more personalized and impactful customer interactions.

For a market like the Philippines, where customer service excellence is a major economic driver, TP’s recognition reinforces the country’s growing influence in the global digital services industry.

TP’s double win at ATEA 2025 proves how far AI and analytics have come—and how Filipino teams are leading the charge in redefining customer experience. As businesses move toward automation and hybrid intelligence, innovations like TP.AI FAB and TP Interact will play an even bigger role in shaping the future.

Read More

RCBC and Taptap Send Partner to Simplify Global Remittances

RCBC and Taptap Send Partner to Simplify Global Remittances

Sunday, November 23, 2025

Sending money back home just got easier for overseas Filipinos. RCBC has teamed up with digital money transfer service Taptap Send to expand global remittance options across the USA, Canada, Europe, UK, UAE, and Australia. This partnership brings faster, more secure, and convenient ways for Filipinos abroad to support their families in the Philippines.

Expanding Digital Remittances Worldwide

With 75% of remittances now sent through digital platforms, the Philippines received a record $38.34 billion in inflows last year. RCBC Transaction Banking Group Head Martin Tirol highlighted that this partnership strengthens the bank’s mission to provide accessible financial services to overseas Filipinos and their families.

Through this collaboration, RCBC can now reach new sending corridors while integrating approximately 500,000 new clients into its remittance system. By joining forces with Taptap Send, a mobile-first money transfer platform operating in major sending regions, RCBC further enhances its global digital remittance infrastructure.

“Overseas Filipinos deserve swift, secure, and convenient options for sending money home,” Tirol said. He emphasized that this partnership equips kababayans with innovative financial tools, helping them achieve long-term financial goals and plan for the future.

For recipients in the Philippines, this translates to faster transfers, reliable service, and access to RCBC’s advanced digital banking solutions, making remittances simpler and more seamless than ever.

RCBC: A Trusted Partner in Financial Connectivity

Currently the 5th largest privately-owned universal bank in the Philippines, RCBC has been recognized for Best Bank for Customer Service. With its robust remittance network and advanced digital capabilities, the bank continues to redefine how Filipinos move money across borders. Through online banking and customer-centric solutions, RCBC ensures that global remittances are not only efficient but also secure and reliable.

For more information on RCBC’s remittance services, visit RCBC Remit.

For overseas Filipinos, sending support to loved ones is more than a transaction—it’s a lifeline. With RCBC and Taptap Send, families can count on timely, reliable, and convenient money transfers, empowering them to plan, save, and thrive no matter where they are in the world.

Read More

St. Peter Chapels Honored at NFDA for 14 Years of Excellence

St. Peter Chapels Honored at NFDA for 14 Years of Excellence

When it comes to compassionate care, St. Peter Chapels continues to set the standard in the Philippines. The funeral service pioneer recently showcased Filipino expertise on the global stage at the 2025 NFDA International Convention and Expo in Chicago, USA, earning international recognition for its dedication to professionalism, empathy, and community service.

99 Delegates Represent the Philippines Abroad

From October 26 to 29, 2025, 99 St. Peter delegates attended the prestigious convention, connecting with funeral service professionals worldwide. The event, one of the most significant gatherings in the industry, provided a platform for learning, networking, and exploring global best practices in memorial care and service management.

Through participation in workshops and discussions, St. Peter Chapels continues to integrate international insights into its services back home, ensuring Filipino families receive the highest standards of dignity and care during life’s most difficult moments.

14th Consecutive NFDA Pursuit of Excellence Award

St. Peter Chapels’ efforts were further recognized with the NFDA Pursuit of Excellence Award, marking its 14th consecutive year of receiving this prestigious accolade. The award celebrates funeral homes that consistently demonstrate operational excellence, superior service, and meaningful community involvement, placing St. Peter among the world’s leading providers of memorial services.

Artemio Vitangcol III, President and CEO of St. Peter Chapels, expressed pride in this milestone, highlighting the company’s commitment to empathy, integrity, and enduring care. He noted that the NFDA Convention inspires ongoing innovation and strengthens St. Peter’s mission to elevate the Philippine memorial care industry.

Leading the DeathCare Industry in the Philippines

With this international recognition, St. Peter Chapels continues to pioneer professional and compassionate funeral services in the Philippines. By applying global insights to local practices, the company ensures that every Filipino family experiences respectful, dignified, and caring memorial services.

This commitment to excellence cements St. Peter’s role as the premier provider in the Philippine DeathCare industry, inspiring other providers to raise their standards and adopt best practices in service and community care.

For families navigating the challenges of loss, knowing that a trusted provider like St. Peter is at the forefront of innovation and global standards offers reassurance. The recognition proves that Filipinos have access to world-class funeral services rooted in compassion, dignity, and professionalism.

Read More

MMDA, Jollibee Group Launch Rewards Program for Plastic Recycling

MMDA, Jollibee Group Launch Rewards Program for Plastic Recycling

Metro Manila residents now have another reason to sort their plastics. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has teamed up with homegrown giant Jollibee Foods Corporation to launch a Plastic Waste Recovery and Rewards Program, turning community recycling efforts into real incentives. Every seven kilograms of plastic collected can now be exchanged for a P100 Jollibee gift certificate making eco-friendly habits not just responsible, but rewarding.

Turning Trash Into Rewards: How the Program Works

The initiative aims to motivate households and barangays to actively participate in proper waste segregation and collection. Residents can bring their segregated plastics to their local Women’s Group, community leaders, or designated barangay collection points. Barangay representatives then weigh the plastics and log them before sending them to the Integrated Solid Waste Management Facility (ISWMF) for verification.

Each kilogram of plastic earns participants 10 points, recorded in a Barangay Reward Card. Once participants reach 70 points, they can redeem a P100 Jollibee gift certificate. Accredited recycling partners ensure that the collected plastics are processed properly, giving waste a second life while keeping Metro Manila cleaner.

A Collaboration for Cleaner Communities

MMDA Chairman Atty. Don Artes highlighted that this partnership strengthens both agencies’ commitment to environmental management, community empowerment, and sustainable development. He also noted that the program aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, which seeks to expand waste minimization efforts across the country.

Artes said the initiative demonstrates how government and private sectors can unite for a common purpose: promoting responsible solid waste management and encouraging active household participation in protecting waterways and reducing landfill waste.

Jollibee’s Role in Building Sustainable Practices

Jollibee Group Philippines CEO Joseph Tanbuntiong emphasized that the program is part of the company’s ‘Joy For Tomorrow’ sustainability agenda. By working with the MMDA and their recycling partner, Greencycle, Jollibee ensures that collected plastics are properly recycled and reused, supporting safer neighborhoods and cleaner waterways.

Tanbuntiong added that this project shows the power of collective action, proving that lasting progress happens when government, business, and communities work together toward shared goals.

Program Coverage and Early Results

The six-month pilot initially covers 20 barangays in Vitas, Tondo, Manila, with plans to expand to 36 barangays near Tripa de Gallina in Pasay and Makati City. A dry run conducted from February 10 to March 31, 2025, in Vitas alone generated 1,059 kilograms of plastic waste, a promising start for a community-driven program aimed at diverting plastic from landfills.

This initiative is part of the broader Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP) Community-Based Solid Waste Management Program, combining sustainability with community empowerment.

For Metro Manila residents, the Plastic Waste Recovery and Rewards Program makes recycling tangible and rewarding. Whether you live in a participating barangay or nearby, getting involved means cleaner streets, healthier waterways, and a free P100 treat from Jollibee for doing your part. Small actions, like sorting plastics at home, now translate into real benefits for you and your community.

Read More

SSS and Manulife Expand Pension Loan Insurance to Surviving Spouses

SSS and Manulife Expand Pension Loan Insurance to Surviving Spouses

Filipino families can breathe a little easier now. The Social Security System (SSS) and Manulife Philippines have officially strengthened their partnership to make financial protection more inclusive for pensioners. Through this collaboration, not only retirement pensioners but also surviving spouses who avail of the SSS Pension Loan Program are now covered by Group Credit Life Insurance, helping families stay secure during life’s unexpected turns.

SSS and Manulife Join Forces to Protect More Pensioners

In a ceremonial signing at the SSS Head Office in Diliman, Quezon City, SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph de Claro and Manulife Philippines President and CEO Rahul Hora sealed the expanded agreement. What this means is clear: pensioners and their families now have stronger financial safeguards in place.

Previously, only around 2 million retirement pensioners enjoyed this coverage. With the new expansion, approximately 1.2 million surviving spouse pensioners are now included, ensuring that loan obligations are fully protected in the event of an unforeseen loss.

De Claro emphasized that this partnership is about empowering Filipino families. He noted that through this program, borrowers are protected from financial vulnerability caused by unexpected loss, illness, or tragedy.

Similarly, Rahul Hora highlighted that the expansion reflects Manulife’s commitment to building a more inclusive financial landscape, allowing more Filipinos to achieve greater financial security, especially during times when support is most needed.

How the Enhanced Pension Loan Program Helps Families

The SSS Pension Loan Program, which first launched on Labor Day 2025, has been a lifeline for pensioners seeking low-interest loans. Now, with Manulife providing Group Credit Life Insurance from 2025 to 2026, the program offers several key benefits:

Comprehensive protection: Outstanding loan balances are covered in the event of a borrower’s passing, easing the financial burden on families.

Inclusive coverage: Surviving spouse pensioners are now included, extending protection to more Filipino households.

Seamless integration: Coverage is automatic, embedded in the pension loan process, so members don’t have to take extra steps.

Public-Private Partnership in Action

This milestone underscores the impact of strong public-private partnerships. Manulife has been supporting SSS since 2022 with its five-year group credit life insurance contract, helping extend social protection programs to millions of Filipinos. With a legacy of 118 years in the Philippines, Manulife continues to provide innovative insurance solutions tailored to the evolving needs of Filipino families at every stage of life.

For many retirees and surviving spouses, navigating financial obligations can be daunting. With this expanded coverage, Filipino families can face the future with more confidence, knowing that loans won’t become an added burden in times of hardship. If you’re an SSS pensioner or a surviving spouse, consider taking advantage of the Pension Loan Program and the automatic Group Credit Life Insurance protection.

Read More

Yokohama Pulse Day Fun Run 2025 Launches Heart Health Drive

Yokohama Pulse Day Fun Run 2025 Launches Heart Health Drive

A Community Fun Run with a Life-Saving Purpose

As Filipinos, fun runs have become a favorite way to meet friends, stay active, and support meaningful causes so it’s exciting to see a new health-driven movement gaining momentum across Asia. The Asia Pacific Heart Rhythm Society (APHRS) officially launched the Yokohama Pulse Day Fun Run 2025 on November 14, marking the first major activity leading up to Pulse Day 2026. More than just a run, the event aims to educate communities about arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) and encourage early detection through simple habits we can all practice, like checking our own pulse.

Held during the APHRS Annual Scientific Sessions, this fun run symbolizes a global call for better heart rhythm awareness and preventive care, something truly relevant to Filipinos, given the country’s rising rates of cardiovascular conditions.

Bringing Heart Health to the Global Stage

This year’s fun run brought together 120 international participants, including members from APHRS, the Japanese Heart Rhythm Society (JHRS), and delegates from EHRA, HRS, and LAHRS. Runners enjoyed a scenic morning loop around Rinko Park South Exit Plaza and visited educational booths filled with heart health information and Pulse Day-themed activities.

Dr. Dicky Armein Hanafy, Head of the Pulse Day Task Force, shared how the run serves as the soft launch of Pulse Day 2026. He explained that the goal is to tie physical activity, pulse checking, and heart disease prevention into one conversation.

According to Dr. Hanafy, “Maintaining a healthy heart rhythm isn’t just medical, it’s a lifestyle choice that starts with each person.”

Scientific Sessions Highlight Breakthroughs in Arrhythmia Care

Beyond the run, APHRS also continued its tradition of hosting annual scientific meetings featuring the latest research on arrhythmia management. Attendees participated in symposiums, lectures, and hands-on training through the APHRS Learning Village, underscoring the society’s commitment to expanding knowledge and improving arrhythmia care worldwide.

Strengthening Global Collaboration for Heart Rhythm Awareness

Last year, the public awareness campaign was led by the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) together with APHRS, HRS, and LAHRS. For 2026, APHRS is taking the lead, strengthening the international push to help people “Feel the Pulse” and practice preventive health measures.

The Yokohama Pulse Day Fun Run 2025 was organized with the Japanese Heart Rhythm Society (JHRS), a partnership that highlights how community-based activities can help the public take ownership of their heart health.

Pulse Day is observed globally every March 1 (1/3), a reminder that 1 in 3 people may experience a significant arrhythmia in their lifetime. Its main message: learn to check your pulse regularly.

How to check your pulse:

Place two fingers on your wrist or neck, count the beats for 30 seconds, and multiply by two. A normal resting heart rate is 60–100 bpm.

This simple step can save lives, especially when detecting Atrial Fibrillation (AF), one of the most common arrhythmias and a major focus for Pulse Day 2026.

Spotlight on Atrial Fibrillation (AF)

AF increases the risk of stroke up to five times, and heart failure up to three times, yet many people—especially in low-resource regions—remain undiagnosed. Dr. Hanafy emphasized that while medical technology continues to advance, access to quality arrhythmia care is still widely uneven.

In some Asian countries, the number of crucial procedures such as catheter ablation and ICD implantation remains drastically behind those of developed nations. APHRS aims to close this gap through training programs, research collaboration, and long-term health policy initiatives.

Technology as a Tool for Early Detection

Wearable devices and mobile health apps are becoming popular across Asia, including the Philippines. These tools can spot irregular heart rhythms early and encourage people to seek proper medical consultation. Still, APHRS stresses that manually checking your pulse remains one of the most effective and accessible ways to detect arrhythmias.

A Movement Toward a Healthier Future

Throughout the Road to Pulse Day 2026 campaign, APHRS will continue promoting educational content, expert guidance, and easy-to-follow habits that empower the public to take charge of their heart rhythm health.

The Yokohama Pulse Day Fun Run 2025 is just the beginning, a celebration of community, wellness, and the shared mission of building a heart-healthier world.

Heart health is something many Filipinos only think about once symptoms appear but events like this remind us that prevention can be simple and empowering. Whether you’re a runner, a walker, or someone trying to stay active, start making pulse checks part of your routine. Your heart will thank you later.

Read More