PLDT Enterprise Boosts Partnership with Coca-Cola Philippines Through Digital Solutions

PLDT Enterprise Boosts Partnership with Coca-Cola Philippines Through Digital Solutions

Saturday, December 13, 2025

 

Keeping a Nationwide FMCG Operation Running Smoothly

When you think about your favorite Coca-Cola drink reaching sari-sari stores, groceries, and restaurants across the Philippines, it is easy to forget the massive operation working behind the scenes. From manufacturing plants to distribution centers, everything needs to move seamlessly and without disruption.

This is where strong digital infrastructure becomes essential.

PLDT Enterprise is reinforcing its partnership with Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines or CCEAP, ensuring that one of the country’s largest FMCG players continues to operate efficiently nationwide. Through wireless connectivity and secure data center solutions, the collaboration supports CCEAP’s growing operational demands across the country.

Supporting One of the Philippines’ Largest Beverage Operations

CCEAP is the bottling partner and official distributor of Coca-Cola products in the Philippines. Its scale is impressive, with 18 manufacturing facilities and close to 70 distribution centers and sales offices nationwide. Backed by a diverse beverage portfolio and a workforce of nearly 9,000 associates, the company depends heavily on reliable communications and data systems to maintain consistency across all sites.

To meet these needs, PLDT Enterprise, through Smart Communications Inc. and VITRO Inc., is delivering solutions that strengthen connectivity, collaboration, and data protection across CCEAP’s operations.

Reliable Wireless Connectivity Across Key Sites

A core part of the partnership involves PLDT Enterprise providing Postpaid Plans that support reliable communication among CCEAP teams across different locations in the Philippines. These plans help ensure uninterrupted coordination between manufacturing facilities, distribution hubs, and sales offices.

To further improve on-site connectivity, in-building solutions or IBS have been activated in selected CCEAP facilities. These solutions enhance indoor mobile coverage, allowing employees to stay connected even in complex industrial environments where signal strength can be a challenge.

For large-scale operations like CCEAP, consistent mobile connectivity is not just a convenience. It is critical to maintaining productivity, safety, and real-time coordination.

Strengthening Business Continuity Through Data Centers

Beyond wireless solutions, CCEAP also leverages VITRO’s nationwide network of data centers. By colocating its critical systems in strategically located VITRO facilities, the company benefits from high levels of security, reliability, and operational resilience.

This setup ensures that essential business data remains protected while supporting uninterrupted operations. In practical terms, it helps CCEAP maintain steady product availability and timely deliveries to retailers and consumers across the country.

For an FMCG company operating at this scale, strong data center support plays a crucial role in long-term business continuity and growth.

Leaders Highlight the Value of Digital Infrastructure

Executives from PLDT Enterprise and CCEAP emphasized how digital infrastructure plays a key role in sustaining large, nationwide operations.

Victor Genuino, President and CEO of ePLDT and VITRO Inc., shared that their focus goes beyond technology delivery. “We are committed to enabling CCEAP with world-class data center services that ensure operational efficiency and resilience, underscoring how digital infrastructure can drive reliability and growth for various industries. Our partnership with them reflects our commitment to empower organizations and their seamless operations, allowing them to focus on serving millions of Filipinos every day,” he said.

Javier Lagdameo, Vice President and Head of Enterprise Revenue Group of PLDT Enterprise, highlighted the importance of uninterrupted communication for a company of CCEAP’s size. “CCEAP’s scale requires reliable, uninterrupted communications across its manufacturing and distribution footprint. By providing wireless and ICT solutions, we are proud to contribute to their digital journey and long-term growth,” he said.

From the CCEAP side, the value of the partnership is clear. Christian Gaxiola, Procurement Director of CCEAP, emphasized how crucial 24/7 connectivity is to their success. “Our operations require 24/7 connectivity, and the support we have received from PLDT Enterprise has been instrumental in helping us achieve record growth. Beyond technology, what we value most is their commitment to understanding our needs and working with us as a long-term partner to drive operational excellence,” he shared.

Driving Growth in the FMCG Industry

This strengthened collaboration highlights PLDT Enterprise’s continued commitment to empowering the manufacturing and FMCG sectors through ICT solutions. By combining wireless connectivity with secure and resilient data center services, PLDT Enterprise helps large organizations like CCEAP focus on what matters most: delivering quality products to Filipino communities nationwide.

For readers interested in how digital infrastructure supports business growth, this partnership is a strong example of how technology, when aligned with operational needs, can drive efficiency, resilience, and long-term success.

To learn more about PLDT Enterprise’s solutions, you may visit their official website.

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Manulife Financial Asia Earns ACES Award 2025 for Championing Sustainability in the Region

Manulife Financial Asia Earns ACES Award 2025 for Championing Sustainability in the Region

Tuesday, December 9, 2025

Sustainability continues to shape how companies operate across Asia, and this year, Manulife Financial Asia Limited earned a major recognition for its long-term commitment to protecting people, communities, and the planet. The company was named one of the Top Sustainability Advocates in Asia at the Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards 2025, marking its first win at the regional level.

For many Filipinos who know Manulife primarily as a trusted insurer, this award highlights a bigger story. Beyond offering financial protection, the company has been investing heavily in environmental stewardship, community empowerment, and inclusive growth across Asia. The recognition reinforces how sustainability has become a major pillar of its identity, not just an add-on.

A Regional Award with Global Significance

The ACES Awards, now in its 12th year, honors organizations that demonstrate strong leadership in sustainability and corporate excellence. The process is highly selective and uses the ACES LEAD Framework to evaluate long-term strategy, ESG performance, governance, and impact on society.

For Manulife, winning under the category of Top Sustainability Advocates in Asia signals that its sustainability roadmap is delivering measurable progress. It also reflects the company’s dedication to aligning business priorities with global sustainability goals.

Representing Manulife Asia at the awards ceremony was Sonali Verma, Chief Marketing Officer of Manulife Philippines, joined by Nadine Braza (Brand Activation and Community Investment Specialist) and Joy Ann Concepcion (Head of Brand, Content, and Digital).

A Commitment Rooted in Purpose

Harshal Shah, Chief Marketing Officer of Manulife Financial Asia, emphasized that the award mirrors the company’s deeper mission. “This award is not just a recognition of our achievements—it’s a testament to our purpose-driven leadership and the measurable impact we’re making across Asia,” he shared. “We’re honored to be a part of the ACES Circle and to stand alongside other changemakers who are shaping a more vibrant and inclusive region.”

For Manulife, sustainability isn’t treated as a buzzword. It’s embedded in its day-to-day systems, long-term investments, and the way the company engages its thousands of employees and agents worldwide.

A Look at Manulife’s Impact Across Asia

Manulife continues to demonstrate leadership in sustainability by leveraging its scale and capabilities across different markets. Some of the company’s notable achievements include:

1. Global leadership in natural capital management

Manulife manages more than CAD$22 billion in natural capital assets, making it the world’s largest manager of timberland and agriculture under a single platform. These investments promote sustainable land use, climate action, and long-term ecological benefits.

2. Measurable climate action

The company has achieved a 27 percent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions, demonstrating real progress toward its climate commitments.

3. Reforestation and biodiversity efforts

So far, Manulife has planted more than 1.4 billion trees, strengthening forest ecosystems and contributing to carbon sequestration efforts globally.

4. Youth empowerment programs

Programs such as Peso Smart, a financial education initiative in the Philippines, and MLK Scholars in North America have reached thousands of young people. These programs help build financial literacy, leadership, and confidence among students from underserved communities.

5. A culture of inclusion and well-being

With over 39,000 employees and 109,000 agents worldwide, the company continues to invest in creating a workplace that fosters belonging, inclusion, and support.

For Filipinos, these efforts matter because they show how global companies can influence positive change locally from climate resilience to education and community empowerment.

A New Global Platform for Longevity and Well-being

One of Manulife’s most recent initiatives is the Manulife Longevity Institute, a global platform dedicated to helping people live longer, healthier, and more financially secure lives. Launched with the goal of driving action by 2030, the Institute cuts across health, financial security, and long-term well-being—three key areas that are especially relevant in Asia where people are living longer but also facing rising healthcare and retirement challenges.

For the Philippines, this initiative aligns with ongoing conversations about healthy aging, financial planning, and access to quality care. As Filipinos increasingly look for ways to prepare for their future, the Longevity Institute’s research and insights could play a meaningful role.

Sustainability awards like ACES highlight companies that go beyond profit. Manulife’s win signals that its Impact Agenda is not only strategic but also effective in creating tangible outcomes. For consumers, this builds trust. For the financial sector, it sets a benchmark. And for communities across Asia, it reinforces the importance of institutions taking active roles in shaping healthier societies and a healthier planet.

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Finland Opens Doors for Filipino Talent Through Ethical Recruitment During Friendship Week

Finland Opens Doors for Filipino Talent Through Ethical Recruitment During Friendship Week

Monday, December 8, 2025

Filipinos get direct access to job opportunities and fair hiring pathways as Finland highlights its commitment to migrant worker welfare.

Every year, thousands of Filipinos look for opportunities abroad, but finding a safe, transparent, and ethical employer is not always easy. This is why the Philippines–Finland Friendship Week matters. The 2025 celebration brings four major Finnish recruitment companies to Manila to give Filipino workers first-hand access to reliable career pathways and trustworthy information about living and working in Finland.

This initiative arrives at a time when Finland is preparing for a massive workforce transition, and Filipino professionals are strongly positioned to be part of that future.

Finland Strengthens Partnerships With Philippine Agencies

As part of the Friendship Week program, representatives from Bondata, Silkkitie, Amiko, and Barona are in the Philippines to reinforce cooperation between both countries. During their visit, the delegation is meeting with the Department of Migrant Workers, OWWA, IOM, and accredited private recruitment agencies to discuss fair hiring practices and long-term support for migrant workers.

The goal is simple: create safe, transparent, and sustainable pathways for Filipinos who want to work in Finland.

Job Fair at SM Megamall Offers Direct Access to Opportunities

Filipinos interested in exploring job opportunities can attend a special job fair at the Megatrade Hall on the fifth level of SM Megamall.

Available openings include roles in the hospitality and services sector as well as industrial jobs such as welders and CNC machinists.

Adding a fun Filipino holiday twist, Santa Claus himself will make an appearance at the Mega Fashion Hall. Families can visit him before heading to the job fair. Registration is required through the DMW Job Fair Portal to secure a Job Fair Pass or QR code.

Finnish Companies Highlight Their Commitment to Ethical Recruitment

Barona’s EVP for Global Talent Solutions, Elina Santalahti, shared that their mission is to help match global talent with the right Finnish employers. She noted that Barona has been hiring Filipino workers for over 15 years and emphasized their commitment to ethical and sustainable recruitment.

Finland faces a major workforce shift, with nearly half of its employees expected to retire by 2040. The country anticipates labor gaps in health and social services, business, industrial roles, and sales. To meet this need, Finland will require 1.37 million new workers by 2040.

With its young and capable workforce, the Philippines is seen as a strong partner in helping fill these positions.

Long-Term Careers and Full Support for Filipino Workers

Bondata Partnership Director Rebekka Kiljunen explained that their focus is on stable, long-term employment. She highlighted that Bondata supports employees from recruitment to integration in Finland, ensuring that Filipino workers have a meaningful and secure experience abroad.

Equal Pay, Fair Contracts, and Strong Worker Protection

Finland’s labor system is known for its strict collective agreements that guarantee equal treatment for all employees. International workers receive the same starting salary as Finnish workers in similar roles, with salary progression based solely on experience.

Work in Finland’s Business Development Manager, Joonas Halla, added that Filipino workers granted employment in Finland receive a residence permit, giving them access to public services and stronger community integration.

Finnish authorities also stressed that the country enforces a strict no-placement-fee policy. Recruitment agencies are prohibited from charging workers any fees, making Finland one of the safest destinations for Filipino migrant workers.

A Promising Opportunity for Filipinos Seeking a Safe Career Abroad

As Finland opens its doors to more global talent, Filipino professionals can access reliable jobs, equal treatment, and long-term career growth. Friendship Week is a timely opportunity for anyone considering a fresh start in a country known for its quality of life, fairness, and strong worker protection.

If you're exploring international careers, now is the perfect time to learn more about Finland and take advantage of ethical recruitment pathways. Visit the official portal at workinfinland.com to start your research.

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TP Philippines Highlights AI-Driven, Future-Ready Workforce Strategies at the 2025 GWFM APAC Summit

TP Philippines Highlights AI-Driven, Future-Ready Workforce Strategies at the 2025 GWFM APAC Summit

Teleperformance Philippines reinforces its human-centric approach to AI and workforce innovation before industry leaders across Asia-Pacific.

TP (formerly Teleperformance) in the Philippines, a global leader in digital business services, continues to champion a future-ready workforce as it participated in the 5th APAC Workforce Management Summit 2025 hosted by Global Workforce Management. The event brought together more than 200 workforce leaders and practitioners from across the Asia-Pacific region, all focused on shaping resilient, AI-empowered organizations.

With this year’s summit theme, “Redefining Workforce Intelligence & Agentic AI: Enabling Resilient, Future-Ready Organizations,” experts explored new ways to blend technology, automation, and human insight to strengthen workplaces.

TP Shares Human-Centric AI Strategy on Panel Discussion

Representing TP Philippines, Senior Vice President for Workforce Management Jim Mathew Joseph joined a panel that explored how companies can effectively harness AI to improve both business resilience and employee empowerment.

Joseph emphasized that technology should elevate people — not replace them. As he explained:

“In a future-ready organization, technology and AI are meant to amplify, not replace our people. At TP, we fulfill this through a human-in-the-loop approach to our AI adoption strategy. We ensure that our integration of AI and human insight continues to drive empathy and excellence, to create workplaces that are both high-performing and deeply human.”

A Regional Exchange of Best Practices

Throughout the summit, over 20 industry experts presented case studies and shared strategies on:

• Building adaptable and resilient workforces
• Embracing AI-driven insights for scalability and competitiveness
• Strengthening customer experience through smarter workforce automation
• Navigating economic and technological disruptions

Leaders across sectors also emphasized the importance of maintaining a flexible, data-informed approach to workforce management in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

A People-First Employer With a Strong Record of Excellence

As one of the largest private employers in the Philippines, TP continues to uphold its commitment to employee well-being, ethical operations, and business resilience. The company’s 60,000 employees across 27 sites reflect a robust people-first culture.

TP Philippines has also been Great Place to Work®-certified for eight consecutive years, consistently earning high marks from employees for workplace safety, inclusivity, and sustainability efforts.

TP’s presence at the GWFM APAC Summit further solidifies its position as a leader in building a tech-enabled yet deeply human workplace. By championing responsible AI adoption and future-ready workforce models, the company continues to shape how organizations can thrive in an increasingly digital world.

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Jollibee Foods Corporation Earns 2 Golden Arrows for Excellence in Corporate Governance

Jollibee Foods Corporation Earns 2 Golden Arrows for Excellence in Corporate Governance

Thursday, December 4, 2025

A Proud Moment for Philippine Corporate Leadership

Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC), one of the Philippines’ most recognized global brands, has added another milestone to its legacy—this time in the field of corporate governance. At the Golden Arrow Awards 2025, JFC was honored for its strong governance practices, marking its first achievement in the prestigious higher category (90–99 points). This recognition highlights the company’s growing leadership not only in food service but also in ethical, transparent, and accountable business operations.

A New Milestone in JFC’s Governance Journey

JFC earned 2 Golden Arrows after scoring 90.03 in the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS). This is the company’s highest score to date and a reflection of its ongoing commitment to raising governance standards across its global operations.

The award reinforces JFC’s efforts to strengthen transparency, improve its systems, and align with global best practices—key values for a company operating in multiple markets.

Leadership Guided by Integrity and Long-Term Value

JFC Global President and CEO Ernesto Tanmantiong shared that the award motivates the company to continue improving its governance framework. He explained that as JFC grows worldwide, strong governance becomes even more crucial in ensuring long-term value for customers, communities, and stakeholders.

In his words, the recognition affirms their progress and highlights how good governance supports their core purpose of spreading joy through superior taste.

What the Golden Arrow Award Represents

The Golden Arrow Awards honor publicly listed companies that demonstrate outstanding governance aligned with the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard, a respected regional benchmark adopted by regulators across Southeast Asia.

Companies that achieve 80 points or higher receive the Golden Arrow distinction, signaling their adherence to both the Revised Code of Corporate Governance and internationally recognized governance standards.

How the ACGS Measures Excellence

The ACGS evaluates companies across several key pillars:

• Protection of shareholder rights
• Fair and equitable treatment of stakeholders
• Transparency and timely disclosures
• The board’s leadership, strategy, and oversight

By recognizing companies that excel in these areas, the ACGS aims to elevate governance practices in the region and attract long-term investors looking for trustworthy and well-managed organizations.

Strengthening JFC’s Position as a Governance Leader

Receiving 2 Golden Arrows solidifies JFC’s place among the Philippines’ and ASEAN’s most well-governed publicly listed companies. More than an award, it’s a testament to JFC’s culture of integrity, stewardship, and continuous improvement—values that shape both its day-to-day operations and its global expansion.

A Win for Good Governance in the Philippines

JFC’s Golden Arrow achievement is more than corporate recognition—it highlights how Filipino companies can lead with integrity on the global stage. As the group continues to grow worldwide, its commitment to strong governance sets a powerful example for other organizations aspiring to build trust, accountability, and long-term value.

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Fastly Launches New Certification Program to Help Partners Strengthen Customer Security and Expand Service Capabilities

Fastly Launches New Certification Program to Help Partners Strengthen Customer Security and Expand Service Capabilities

Monday, December 1, 2025

Fastly, Inc. (NYSE: FSLY), a global leader in edge cloud platforms, has introduced the Fastly Certified Services Partner Program, a new certification initiative designed to empower technical security professionals across partner organizations with deeper expertise in deploying and managing Fastly’s advanced security solutions.

With 72% of executives reporting an increase in cyber threats, organizations are urgently seeking trusted security partners who can deliver streamlined, reliable protection. Certification has quickly become a key differentiator, helping partners build credibility and upskill teams to respond to emerging, AI-driven threats.

Fastly’s new self-guided certification program addresses these needs by offering flexible, accessible training that partners can complete on their schedule. After certification, partners gain access to a full suite of resources, including:

• Early insights into Fastly’s innovation roadmap
• Invitations to exclusive technical labs and webinars
• Unlimited access to ongoing training and enablement content

“Equipping our partners with advanced training and certification in our security solutions enables them to expand their service portfolios, create new revenue streams, and deliver greater value to their clients,” said Jeff Alpen, Vice President of Global Partnerships at Fastly. “This program is a pivotal step in strengthening our global channel ecosystem and providing customers with more choice and flexibility in how they implement and manage their security infrastructure.”

“Fastly’s new certification program reinforces the strength of our partnership and empowers our team with the advanced knowledge needed to deliver exceptional results,” added Ben Trafton, Vice President of Client Services at Yottaa. “It’s a unique benefit that enhances our ability to create broader go-to-market value together.”

The launch of the Fastly Certified Services Partner Program represents a major milestone in expanding Fastly’s partner ecosystem and elevating partner-led value. Certified partners can now offer implementation services that complement Fastly’s own professional services team—giving customers the flexibility to choose either Fastly experts or a trusted local certified partner.

Upon completing the training track, organizations earn the Fastly Certified Services Partner designation, while individual participants receive the title Fastly Certified Professional for Security Implementation. This security certification track forms part of Fastly’s broader commitment to continuous partner enablement and go-to-market success.

For more details about the Fastly Certified Services Partner Program, email team-partners@fastly.com.

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AI-Driven Mobile Fraud Surges Ahead of Holiday Shopping Rush, Appdome Report Finds

AI-Driven Mobile Fraud Surges Ahead of Holiday Shopping Rush, Appdome Report Finds

Filipino consumers are heading into the peak holiday shopping period more anxious than ever, as new data from Appdome’s 2025 Consumer Expectations of Mobile App Security Report reveals a major spike in fears around AI-driven fraud. Synthetic identities, deepfake scams, and mobile account takeovers have now become the top reasons shoppers abandon mobile apps during Black Friday, Cyber Week, and the Christmas season.

Recent industry reports from NordLayer, SEON, and Kaspersky show fraud attempts surging between 22% and 400% during Cyber Week. Appdome’s consumer survey reflects this rising threat landscape:

• 43.4% of Filipinos say identity fraud is their biggest concern when shopping on mobile.

• 74.7% delete or avoid apps they believe are unsafe.

• 34.1% claim they or someone they know has been targeted by social engineering scams.

With deep discounts, high-speed checkouts, and an influx of mobile payments, shoppers believe the 2025 holiday season is shaping up to be the most vulnerable yet.

“AI is changing the fraud landscape faster than mobile businesses can react,” said Tom Tovar, Co-Creator and CEO of Appdome. “Consumers want proof that apps can stop fraud before a holiday purchase is made, not after the damage is done.”

How AI Is Supercharging Holiday Fraud

This year, AI-assisted fraud has escalated through tactics such as deepfake payment confirmations, vishing, and bot-driven account takeovers—threats that are increasingly difficult for users to detect.

Key findings from the survey include:

• 67.2% of Filipinos view AI as an opportunity, while 32.8% see it as a direct threat to their mobile safety.

• 84.1% expect apps to block AI-powered dangers such as bots, deepfakes, impersonation attempts, and ATOs.

• Only 60% feel confident that apps can actually protect them—revealing a wide trust gap during the busiest shopping season.

This growing “AI paradox” challenges mobile banking, e-commerce, fintech, travel, and delivery apps to provide strong, visible in-app protection as holiday transactions peak.

Filipino Shoppers Demand Fraud Prevention, Not Reimbursement

As the holiday sales push accelerates, consumers say security must happen in real time, not after the fact:

• 86.7% expect fraud to be stopped before it occurs—not compensated afterward.

• 45.9% believe responsibility lies with the mobile app maker, not the device, OS, or telco provider.

• 70% consider privacy extremely important, and 15.2% refuse to use apps without clear privacy protections.

“Holiday shopping is when attackers strike hardest,” said Jamie Bertasi, Appdome’s Chief Customer Officer. “AI enables bad actors to mimic real users, hijack sessions, and trigger fake transactions. Protection inside the app is critical for safeguarding both customers and revenue.”

Why Mobile Apps Must Act Before Christmas Spending Peaks

Record-high mobile spending is expected between Black Friday and December 31, making apps primary targets:

• Fast, high-volume transactions open the door to synthetic identity fraud.
• Attackers use AI to scale mobile scams exponentially.
• Consumer loyalty now depends strongly on visible, real-time protection.

Filipino shoppers say they’re more likely to support brands that actively protect them:

• 27.6% would leave positive reviews for secure apps.

• 24.7% would promote those apps on social media.

About the Report

Appdome’s 2025 Consumer Expectations of Mobile App Security Report analyzes emerging fraud threats and user expectations from respondents across the Philippines and global markets.

Read the full study here: https://www.appdome.com/mobile-consumer-cyber-security-survey/

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