SOCIAL MEDIA

MediaTek Unveils Filogic 8000 Series for Wi-Fi 8

Sunday, January 18, 2026


The future of wireless connectivity just got faster and smarter. MediaTek introduced its Filogic 8000 family at CES 2026, positioning the company at the forefront of the emerging Wi-Fi 8 ecosystem. This next-generation technology promises ultra-reliable, low-latency connectivity across a wide range of devices, from smartphones, laptops, and TVs to streaming devices, IoT products, and AI-driven applications.

As more devices go online, wireless networks face increasing congestion, interference, and delays. Wi-Fi 8 aims to tackle these challenges head-on, delivering robust connectivity, better bandwidth, and enhanced power efficiency. For users, this translates to smoother streaming, faster downloads, and a more responsive experience for latency-sensitive applications like cloud gaming, XR, and industrial automation.

Four Pillars of Wi-Fi 8 Innovation

Wi-Fi 8 isn’t just faster—it’s smarter. MediaTek has designed its Filogic 8000 family around four key areas of innovation:

Multi-AP Coordination – Technologies like Coordinated Beamforming, Coordinated Spatial Reuse, and Multi-AP Scheduling allow multiple access points to work together, reducing interference and improving overall network efficiency.

Spectrum Efficiency & Coexistence – Features such as Dynamic Subband Operation, Non-Primary Channel Access, and In-Device Coexistence help devices share crowded frequency bands more effectively, keeping connections stable even in dense environments.

Coverage & Range – Enhanced Long Range and Distributed-Tone Resource Units boost uplink performance and reduce latency, while ensuring seamless roaming so devices stay connected at the network edge.

Latency & Reliability Optimization – Smarter data rate adaptation and Aggregated PPDU techniques ensure consistent, low-latency performance, critical for real-time applications and AI-powered services.

Together, these improvements make Wi-Fi 8 a scalable, future-ready platform capable of handling high-density, high-performance wireless networks.

Industry Leaders Recognize MediaTek’s Leadership

Wi-Fi Alliance President and CEO Kevin Robinson highlighted MediaTek’s role in shaping the next generation of wireless technology:

“Emerging applications demand greater reliability, efficiency, and performance. MediaTek exemplifies the momentum of our industry by leading in Wi-Fi 8 development. Their contributions will ensure global connectivity is ready for ultra-reliable, multi-gigabit experiences.”

Alan Hsu, Corporate Vice President and GM of MediaTek’s Intelligent Connectivity Business Unit, emphasized the company’s commitment:

“We are pioneering Wi-Fi 8 across gateways and client devices. Our CES demonstrations showcase MediaTek’s leadership in next-generation wireless technology and our dedication to delivering robust connectivity for AI-driven applications and latency-critical scenarios.”

Partner Support and Real-World Applications

MediaTek isn’t working alone. With partners such as Deutsche Telekom, Airties, SoftAtHome, Zyxel, and others, the Filogic 8000 series is poised to power a wide array of devices and smart applications. Over 2 billion connected devices shipped annually highlight MediaTek’s global reach and influence in the wireless market.

Industry leaders praised the innovation:

Anindya Chakraborty, RUCKUS Networks – “MediaTek continues to exceed expectations for wireless connectivity.”

Nobuhiro Tamura, Buffalo Inc. – “Wi-Fi 8 opens new possibilities for seamless connectivity across homes and businesses.”

Shipsheep Cheng, HP – “MediaTek is shaping the future of work with reliable, connected experiences.”

Rangoon Chang, ASUS – “We look forward to exploring new connectivity possibilities with MediaTek.”

James Lin, Acer Inc. – “Filogic 8000 prepares Wi-Fi 8 for market availability next year with enhanced reliability.”

Additional endorsements from Korea Telecom (KT), Adtran, Arcadyan, and Foxconn reinforce MediaTek’s industry-leading position and its pivotal role in advancing Wi-Fi technology.

The Road Ahead for Wi-Fi 8

The Filogic 8000 series targets premium and flagship devices, with the first chipsets expected to reach customers later this year. With Wi-Fi 8, MediaTek is preparing networks and devices for a future where AI applications, cloud gaming, XR experiences, and IoT connectivity require uninterrupted, high-performance wireless connections.

From improving network efficiency and coverage to enabling ultra-low-latency performance, MediaTek’s Wi-Fi 8 solutions represent the next step in future-ready wireless ecosystems—making everyday connectivity faster, smarter, and more reliable than ever before.
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Fastly Appoints Rachel Ler as Area VP for Asia Growth


Global edge cloud platform Fastly is doubling down on its Asia expansion with the appointment of Rachel Ler as Area Vice President of Asia, signaling a stronger push into one of the world’s most dynamic digital regions.

Announced on January 13, 2026, Ler’s new role puts her in charge of Fastly’s business across ASEAN countries, the Greater China region, and South Korea. Her mandate focuses on accelerating growth, strengthening customer and partner relationships, and advancing Fastly’s long-term expansion strategy across Asia’s fast-evolving digital markets.

Why Asia Is a Key Focus for Fastly

Asia continues to be one of the most diverse and high-growth regions for digital services. With businesses racing to modernize platforms, secure applications, and deliver faster online experiences, demand for reliable edge cloud solutions is growing rapidly.

Fastly’s leadership sees regional proximity and market understanding as critical to meeting these needs.

According to Nicola Gerber, Vice President for Asia Pacific and Japan at Fastly, Ler’s appointment reinforces the company’s commitment to bringing the Fastly experience closer to customers across the region.

“The Asia region is one of the most diverse and dynamic markets in the world, spanning ASEAN countries, South Korea, and the Greater China region,” Gerber shared. She emphasized that localization, regional expertise, and customer proximity are central pillars of Fastly’s Asia Pacific and Japan expansion strategy.

With Ler’s background in building and leading high-performing teams across Asia Pacific, Fastly expects to deepen its regional footprint while delivering more tailored solutions to customers.

A Leader with Deep APAC Experience

Rachel Ler brings more than 20 years of experience in enterprise technology and regional leadership across Asia Pacific. Prior to joining Fastly, she held senior leadership roles at Commvault and Versa Networks, where she helped drive sustainable growth through customer-centric strategies, solution innovation, and strong partner ecosystems.

Her experience spans multiple APAC markets, giving her a strong understanding of how to scale go-to-market strategies while respecting the unique needs of each country.

This background positions Ler well to lead Fastly’s next phase of growth in Asia, where businesses range from digital-first startups to large enterprises modernizing complex infrastructures.

What Ler’s Role Means for the Philippines and ASEAN

For markets like the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia, Ler’s appointment highlights Fastly’s intention to invest further in localized leadership and support.

Under her leadership, Fastly aims to help customers modernize their digital platforms, improve application security, and deliver low-latency digital experiences closer to end users. This includes supporting businesses as they prepare for AI-ready infrastructure and increasing demands for speed, reliability, and security.

By strengthening leadership across Asia, Fastly is positioning itself as a long-term partner for organizations navigating digital transformation in the region.

Driving Edge Cloud Innovation at Scale

Ler will work closely with Gerber and Fastly’s global leadership team to advance the company’s broader strategy around edge cloud innovation, international growth, and next-generation digital infrastructure.

This includes enabling customers across ASEAN, South Korea, and the Greater China region to build faster, safer, and more resilient online experiences. With rising digital expectations across Asia, Fastly’s focus on performance and proximity becomes even more relevant.

A Shared Vision for a Faster, Safer Internet

For Ler, joining Fastly is as much about values as it is about technology.

“What excites me most about joining Fastly is its authenticity and its passion for building a faster, safer and more engaging internet,” she shared. Ler noted that digital expectations across Asia are rising quickly, and customers are looking for partners who are deeply invested in delivering secure and high-performance experiences.

She added that she is energized by the opportunity to bring Fastly’s engineering strength and customer-focused mindset to the region, and to help organizations make a meaningful impact through better digital experiences.

What This Signals for Fastly’s Asia Strategy

Ler’s appointment underscores Fastly’s continued investment in regional leadership as part of its long-term Asia strategy. By combining localized expertise with global technology capabilities, the company aims to better serve customers in markets that are rapidly shaping the future of the digital economy.

For Asia, and especially for growing digital markets like the Philippines, this move signals greater access to advanced edge cloud solutions designed to keep pace with rising user expectations.
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PH Leads Asia Talks on Large-Scale Ocean Protection


As the global race to protect 30 percent of the world’s oceans by 2030 gains momentum, the Philippines is stepping into a leadership role in Asia’s marine conservation efforts. Recently, Iloilo City played host to the Asia Regional Large-Scale Marine Protected Area (LSMPA) Workshop, bringing together conservation leaders, scientists, policymakers, and community advocates from across the region.

The two-day workshop was organized by the Zoological Society of London Philippines (ZSL Philippines) in partnership with the Blue Nature Alliance (BNA), alongside regional partners from government, academe, and non-government organizations. At its core, the gathering focused on one shared goal: how Asia can protect its oceans at scale through science-based and community-driven approaches.

Why Large-Scale Marine Protection Matters

Asia is home to some of the most diverse and productive marine ecosystems in the world. From coral reefs and mangroves to deep-sea habitats, these waters support food security, livelihoods, and biodiversity for millions of people.

According to Laure Katz, Executive Director of the Blue Nature Alliance, Asia has long led the way in nearshore marine protection. The challenge now is extending conservation beyond the traditional 12 nautical miles and into offshore waters, where threats such as illegal fishing and climate change are becoming more pronounced.

The workshop tackled this challenge head-on by exploring how science, policy, and community engagement can work together to make large-scale marine protection more achievable and effective.

A Regional Exchange of Ideas and Solutions

Co-hosted by Big Ocean, a peer-learning network created by and for managers of large-scale marine areas, the workshop gathered participants from the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Maldives, Vietnam, and the Solomon Islands.

With technical and financial support from the Alliance, discussions covered a wide range of issues affecting marine protection in Asia. These included governance gaps, climate-related impacts, pollution, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, sea-level rise, and the complexities of transboundary conservation.

Beyond identifying challenges, participants also worked toward solutions. The workshop laid the groundwork for an Asia Regional LSMPA Community of Practice and began shaping a regional roadmap for large-scale marine conservation.

Collaboration as the Key to 30x30

One of the strongest messages to emerge from the workshop was the importance of collaboration. Conservation at this scale requires coordination across countries, sectors, and communities.

“The Blue Nature Alliance is working with over 130 partners globally to advance ocean conservation in 5 percent of the world’s ocean as a significant contribution to the global 30x30 goal,” Katz shared.

Participants agreed that marine conservation efforts must align with food security objectives, particularly in regions where fishing supports millions of livelihoods. They also emphasized the need for long-term and equitable financing mechanisms backed by government support, better alignment of ocean-related policies, and stronger public participation in conservation initiatives.

These shared insights highlight Asia’s growing capacity to innovate and lead when it comes to protecting marine ecosystems.

Asia’s Potential to Lead the Next Wave of Ocean Protection

For Naiʻa Lewis, Director of Big Ocean, the region holds enormous potential.

“The potential for Asia is huge,” Lewis said. “It can be a trailblazer, creating a ‘Big Ocean 2.0,’ leading the second wave of large-scale protection, and showing the world that fisheries, food security, and conservation can be addressed together.”

This vision resonated strongly throughout the workshop, especially as countries shared lessons learned from existing marine protected areas and explored ways to scale up what works.

Philippine Rise as a Flagship Conservation Effort

One of the most ambitious initiatives discussed during the workshop was the proposed Philippine Rise Ocean Conservation Area. Implemented by ZSL Philippines in partnership with the Department of Agriculture Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Fisheries Management Area 1, and the Blue Nature Alliance, the proposed area would cover around 150,000 square kilometers.

This represents approximately 7.5 percent of Philippine waters, potentially making it the largest single marine protected area in Asia. Beyond protecting biodiversity, the initiative aims to support long-term food security by ensuring healthier and more resilient marine ecosystems.

“The thinking around marine protected areas has long been at a much smaller scale,” said Edwina Garchitorena, Country Director of ZSL Philippines. She acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly in terms of community understanding and governance alignment, but emphasized that the long-term impact makes the effort worthwhile.

From Commitment to Action

The workshop also highlighted a growing shift across Asia, particularly in the Philippines and Indonesia, where governments are beginning to translate conservation commitments into concrete action.

According to Katz, the movement toward large-scale protection is gaining momentum, supported by comprehensive solutions that address both nearshore and offshore ecosystems.

For participants, the workshop was not just a meeting, but the start of a longer journey.

“The Asia Regional LSMPA Workshop is the beginning of a meaningful journey to inspire bold action for marine protection for the benefit of people and nature,” Katz said.

Building a Collective Future for Asia’s Oceans

As climate change and human pressures continue to threaten marine ecosystems, initiatives like the Asia Regional LSMPA Workshop show that large-scale ocean protection is not only possible but increasingly necessary.

ZSL Philippines, together with the Blue Nature Alliance, Big Ocean, and regional partners, will continue working to strengthen marine governance and mobilize collective action toward achieving the global 30x30 ocean protection target.

For the Philippines, hosting this regional dialogue reinforces its growing role as a leader in ocean conservation, proving that protecting marine life and securing food for future generations can go hand in hand.
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61st ANVIL Awards Reflect Growing Confidence in PH PR


The Philippine public relations industry is showing clear signs of strength and momentum, and the 61st ANVIL Awards proves just that. Organized by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), this year’s edition of the country’s most prestigious PR awards drew strong participation from companies and agencies across sectors.

Often referred to as the “Oscars” of Philippine public relations, the ANVIL Awards remains a trusted barometer of how the industry is evolving. With hundreds of entries and a growing pool of participating organizations, the latest edition reflects renewed confidence in the value, credibility, and impact of professional PR work in the country.

Steady Entries, Bigger Industry Participation

For the 61st ANVIL Awards, PRSP received a total of 622 entries, closely matching last year’s 649 submissions. While the overall number of entries remained relatively steady, what stood out was the sharp increase in the number of participating organizations.

This year, 193 organizations submitted entries, a significant jump from last year’s 118 participants. The total includes 151 companies and 42 agencies, marking one of the broadest industry turnouts in recent years.

For PRSP leaders, this growth speaks volumes.

“For us, this increase in participation is especially meaningful,” shared Ana Pista, APR, Vice President for External of PRSP and Chair of the 61st ANVIL Awards. “It shows that more organizations see value in having their work measured against clear standards of strategy, creativity, and results.”

She added that the ANVIL Awards continues to be a platform where PR professionals challenge themselves and contribute to shaping what excellence in public relations looks like today.

Campaigns Take the Spotlight, Tools Highlight Execution

Entries were evaluated under two main categories: PR Programs and PR Tools, each designed to recognize a different aspect of public relations excellence.

The PR Programs category, which focuses on full-scale campaigns, received the bulk of submissions. From these, 39 Gold ANVILs and 120 Silver ANVILs were awarded, reflecting the depth, competitiveness, and strategic thinking behind this year’s campaign entries.

Meanwhile, the PR Tools category recognized executional excellence in communication materials. This category awarded 3 Gold ANVILs and 25 Silver ANVILs, highlighting innovation in platforms, content, and delivery.

The distinction between the two categories is intentional and essential to the awards’ credibility.

A PR Program refers to a complete campaign, including research, objectives, audience insights, strategy, execution, and evaluation. The most outstanding campaign earns the Grand ANVIL, the highest honor under this category.

PR Tools, on the other hand, focus on specific communication materials such as media kits, websites, videos, digital platforms, events, apps, and internal communication tools. The top recognition here is the Platinum ANVIL, awarded to the most effective PR Tool.

“This distinction allows us to recognize both strategic excellence and executional innovation,” Pista explained. “A strong campaign needs both a clear strategy and well-designed tools that bring that strategy to life.”

A Rigorous and Credible Judging Process

Maintaining the integrity of the ANVIL Awards means ensuring a thorough and transparent evaluation process. All submissions underwent multiple levels of review, beginning with screening and judging by a panel of around 75 judges from the fields of communications, media, business, and related industries.

Results were then validated by SGV & Co., PRSP’s external auditor, before moving to final deliberations by a Panel of Jurors, which took place on January 10.

From this final stage, six entries were named Top PR Programs, while four entries emerged as Top PR Tools, representing the highest distinctions in their respective categories.

Pista expressed appreciation for the judges and jurors who dedicated time and expertise to the process, particularly as much of the evaluation took place during the holiday season. Their rigor and professional insight continue to uphold the credibility of the awards.

Pushing Past Possibilities for the PR Industry

The 61st ANVIL Awards carried the theme “The 61st Second: Pushing Past Possibilities.” According to PRSP, this theme reflects the organization’s commitment to keeping the awards relevant as the PR landscape continues to evolve.

“This year’s theme speaks to our intention to keep the ANVIL Awards globally relevant and responsive to the changing demands of public relations,” Pista shared. She emphasized that while creativity remains important, it must always be anchored in research, strategy, and measurable outcomes.

In an industry that is becoming increasingly complex and accountable, the awards aim to celebrate work that delivers both impact and substance.

Countdown to Gabi ng Parangal

The complete list of winners will be officially announced during the Gabi ng Parangal on January 28, to be held at Ballrooms 2 and 3 of Solaire Resort North, starting at 5:00 PM.

As anticipation builds, the PR community once again prepares to celebrate campaigns and tools that push boundaries, deliver results, and elevate the practice of public relations in the Philippines.

Now on its 61st year, the ANVIL Awards continues to stand as the industry’s gold standard, honoring not just creativity, but thoughtful, disciplined, and results-driven communication that truly makes a difference.
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Igloo and Angkas Bring Affordable Insurance to Riders

Thursday, January 15, 2026


Motorcycle ride-hailing has quietly become a lifeline for millions of Filipinos navigating congested roads and limited public transport. From daily commuters to delivery workers and side-hustling riders, platforms like Angkas now play a central role in how people move around cities. But while the sector continues to grow, one critical gap remains: protection for the riders who keep it running.

That gap is now being addressed through a new partnership between regional insurtech Igloo and Angkas, the Philippines’ largest motorcycle ride-hailing platform. Together, they are rolling out affordable personal accident and medical insurance coverage for more than 20,000 Angkas riders, making safety more accessible in the country’s fast-growing gig economy.

The rise of ride-hailing services has reshaped urban mobility in the Philippines, particularly in Metro Manila and other densely populated cities. With fragmented public transportation systems and heavy traffic, motorcycles offer a faster, more flexible option for daily travel.

Industry projections show the motorcycle ride-hailing sector reaching USD 1 billion in revenue by 2030, reflecting its growing importance. Yet many riders still operate without adequate insurance, leaving them financially vulnerable in the event of accidents or medical emergencies.

This concern has not gone unnoticed by regulators. The Philippine Insurance Commission (IC) recently issued a draft circular proposing Passenger Personal Accident Insurance (PPAI) coverage for motorcycle taxis. The move signals a broader national push to strengthen rider and passenger safety as the sector expands.

How the Igloo and Angkas Partnership Works

Angkas currently has over 20,000 registered riders and more than 11 million app downloads, making it the largest motorcycle ride-hailing platform in the country. Through its collaboration with Igloo, Angkas riders are now automatically enrolled in Personal Accident (PA) plans while completing rides.

This embedded insurance model means riders do not need to apply separately or manage complicated paperwork. Protection is built directly into the platform where they earn their income.

What Coverage Riders and Passengers Get

For a minimum premium of just 52 cents per ride, both riders and passengers receive meaningful protection, including:
  • PHP 650,000 in personal accident insurance benefits
  • PHP 200,000 in medical coverage
  • Free private ambulance service in case of emergencies

This structure makes insurance affordable on a per-ride basis, especially for gig workers who prefer flexible, usage-based costs rather than large upfront payments.

For Igloo, the partnership reflects its broader mission to make insurance more inclusive and accessible across Southeast Asia.

“This partnership aims to provide thousands of Filipino riders access to affordable insurance embedded directly into the platform where they earn their livelihood, closing the protection gap by reaching them where they are,” said Raunak Mehta, Co-founder and CEO of Igloo.

“At Igloo, our mission is to make insurance accessible, relevant, and affordable for all, and we will continue forging partnerships like this to advance that vision across the region.”

By integrating insurance into everyday digital platforms, Igloo is addressing a long-standing issue faced by gig workers: limited access to financial protection despite high exposure to risk.

Angkas Strengthens Rider Trust and Safety

From Angkas’ perspective, the initiative reinforces its commitment to rider welfare and passenger trust.

“Our riders’ safety is our top priority at Angkas, and this milestone partnership allows us to provide even more support for them,” said Angeline Tham, Founder of Angkas.

“By working with Igloo, we’re able to offer accessible coverage that protects our riders and strengthens the trust that millions of Filipinos place in our service every day.”

In an industry where trust is everything, offering built-in protection helps reassure both riders and passengers that safety is not an afterthought.

A Bigger Shift in Digital Insurance

The Igloo and Angkas collaboration highlights a growing trend in the insurance industry: embedded insurance. Instead of selling standalone policies, insurers are integrating protection directly into digital services such as ride-hailing, e-commerce, and fintech platforms.

As mobility platforms continue to shape how Filipinos move and work, collaborations like this show how technology and insurance can work together to create safer, more sustainable livelihoods.

To learn more about Igloo’s products and services, visit its official website.

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How Designer Len Cabili Balances Creativity, Culture, and Connectivity

Wednesday, January 14, 2026


Filipino designer Len Cabili has always believed that meaningful work starts with meaningful connections. As the founder of Filip+Inna, she has built a globally recognized fashion label rooted in heritage, storytelling, and collaboration with indigenous Filipino artisans. But behind every handwoven textile and thoughtfully designed piece is a modern creative navigating a fast-paced, always-on world.

For Cabili, finding balance between cultural advocacy, creative leadership, and personal life is made possible through Smart Infinity, Smart’s premium postpaid brand designed for individuals who demand both performance and personalization.

A Filipino Designer Bridging Tradition and Modern Life

Len Cabili is known for doing what few designers manage to achieve. She preserves centuries-old weaving traditions while presenting them in contemporary silhouettes that resonate locally and internationally. Filip+Inna works closely with artisan communities across the Philippines, from Mindanao to Northern Luzon, ensuring that craftsmanship is honored and sustained.

This kind of work requires constant coordination, trust, and communication. It also demands flexibility. Cabili frequently moves between remote weaving communities, urban creative spaces, and international stages. Staying connected is not optional. It is essential.

Staying Connected Without Losing Balance

As both a creative director and cultural advocate, Cabili relies heavily on her network of artisans, collaborators, and clients. Technology plays a quiet but crucial role in making these relationships work.

“I rely heavily on my network to get things done,” Cabili shares. “Smart Infinity genuinely takes the time to understand my needs not just in terms of connectivity, but how I want to experience it. It’s like having a concierge for my digital life.”

Whether she is deep in the mountains of Mindanao or attending global forums, Cabili depends on reliable connectivity and personalized support to keep projects moving forward. At the same time, seamless access to entertainment and digital tools allows her to disconnect when needed and protect her work-life balance.

For creatives and business leaders alike, this balance is becoming a priority, not a luxury.

Why Work-Life Balance Matters for Filipino Creatives and Entrepreneurs

Across the Philippines, more founders, freelancers, and executives are redefining success. Productivity is no longer just about output. It is also about sustainability, wellness, and intentional living.

Technology as a Creative Enabler

For Cabili, technology enhances the creative process without overshadowing craftsmanship.

“Technology has made the creative process more efficient and faster, complementing the patience and skill behind every piece,” she explains. “Smart Infinity anticipates my needs by providing the best in technology and service to support my work.”

This mindset resonates with many Filipino entrepreneurs who juggle multiple roles and responsibilities. Reliable digital infrastructure allows them to focus on what truly matters, whether that is innovation, collaboration, or community impact.

Communication as the Foundation of Collaboration

Cabili emphasizes that communication is central to both her personal and professional life.

“Communication is key to nurturing connections with family, friends, and collaborators,” she says. “Smart Infinity’s reliable connectivity ensures I stay in touch wherever I go, whether in Kalinga or Sulu.”

In an archipelagic country like the Philippines, where distance can be a challenge, consistent connectivity helps bridge gaps. For businesses working with provincial partners or global clients, this reliability builds trust and momentum.

Inside the Smart Infinity Experience

Smart Infinity positions itself as more than a mobile service. It is designed as a premium digital partner for individuals who value time, convenience, and tailored support.

Smart Infinity members gain access to a range of exclusive benefits that support both work and lifestyle, including:
  • Worldwide Concierge Services for travel, dining, and personal requests
  • Complimentary airport lounge access for more comfortable journeys
  • Smart Rewards with premium and luxury brand partners
  • A dedicated Relationship Manager
  • 24/7 personalized support and priority assistance at Smart Stores nationwide

For Cabili, this level of service creates peace of mind.

“Knowing I can rely on their support anytime gives me peace of mind,” she shares. “Their service feels truly personal, not just transactional.”

A Shared Philosophy of Excellence and Intentionality

There is a clear alignment between Cabili’s design philosophy and Smart Infinity’s approach to service. Both value craftsmanship, foresight, and meaningful relationships.

“In my work, craftsmanship and collaboration are central,” Cabili explains. “Smart Infinity mirrors that by being intentional about service and anticipating needs before they arise.”

This shared mindset highlights a broader shift in how premium brands engage with Filipino leaders. The focus is no longer just on features, but on experience.

For Cabili, Smart Infinity has become a trusted partner that empowers her to connect, create, and continue championing Filipino artistry on the world stage.

For more information on Smart Infinity, visit Smart’s official website, dial *800, or follow @smartinfinity on Instagram.
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Manulife Philippines Drives Sustainability and Community Impact

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

Corporate sustainability often sounds good on paper. The real test is whether it shows up on the ground, in communities, and in everyday lives. For Manulife Philippines, 2025 was a year of proving that purpose-led initiatives can move beyond pledges and create measurable, people-centered impact.

Through its Impact Agenda, Manulife’s global commitment to better outcomes for customers, communities, and the planet, the company spent the past year investing time, resources, and hands-on effort into environmental restoration, financial education, and community resilience. What stands out is not just the scale of these initiatives, but the consistency and human participation behind them.

What the Impact Agenda Means for Filipinos

Manulife’s Impact Agenda is built around a simple idea: business success should go hand in hand with social and environmental progress. In the Philippines, this translates into programs that address real local needs, from climate resilience and coastal protection to financial literacy for young learners.

Rather than concentrating efforts in a single campaign, Manulife Philippines spread its initiatives throughout the year, mobilizing employees, community partners, and beneficiaries across multiple regions.

Reforestation That Goes Beyond Tree-Planting

Environmental restoration remains one of the most visible pillars of Manulife Philippines’ sustainability work. In 2025 alone, the company planted more than 10,000 native trees across four hectares of terrestrial and coastal areas. This brings its total to 31,250 trees planted to date through partnerships with the Haribon Foundation, local associations, and colleague-volunteers.

Preparing Forests for the Long Term


In February, Manulife volunteers worked with the Haribon Foundation on a seedling nursery activity in Sto. Niño, Rizal. The team prepared 1,000 native tree seedlings with support from KAT-MAGAT Tourism and Farmers Association and Sto. Niño Integrated School. These seedlings will be planted in 2026 across eight hectares in the Sierra Madre mountain range, benefiting over 200 households.

This approach highlights a growing sustainability trend: success is no longer measured by planting alone, but by preparation, survival rates, and long-term ecosystem health.

Restoring Coastlines and Protecting Livelihoods


Mangrove rehabilitation is critical for a country as disaster-prone as the Philippines. In Infanta, Quezon, Manulife partnered with Haribon Foundation and the Alitas Farmers and Fisherfolk Association to support coastal restoration efforts. The program established a dedicated mangrove seedling nursery expected to produce 15,000 seedlings by the end of 2027, directly supporting more than 200 households that depend on coastal ecosystems.

A Flagship Terrestrial Restoration Site

In Real, Quezon, Manulife’s terrestrial restoration site spans 10 hectares and was developed with Brgy. Tanuan Farmer’s Association and the Samahan ng Katutubong Dumagat ng Real, Quezon Inc. This initiative benefits nearly 10,000 households in Brgy. Maragondon, reinforcing how environmental action can also be a tool for social stability.

Building Financial Confidence Early Through Peso Smart

Environmental impact is only one side of the equation. Financial education remains another critical need, especially for young Filipinos navigating an increasingly complex economy.


Manulife’s Peso Smart program, launched in 2017, continues to expand its reach. In 2025, the program partnered with the Corazon Sanchez Atayde Memorial Foundation to reach new learners across 18 public elementary schools nationwide. To date, more than 4,900 students have completed the award-winning program, learning foundational skills in saving, budgeting, and investing.

For business leaders and parents alike, initiatives like Peso Smart underscore the long-term value of early financial literacy in building more financially secure communities.

Bayanihan in Action Through Employee-Led Programs


Manulife’s global shared services arm, Manulife Business Processing Services, introduced its first Bayanihan Festival in November 2025. Rooted in the Filipino value of collective action, the festival brought together partners such as Rise Against Hunger Philippines, Waves for Water Philippines, and Reach Out and Feed Philippines.

Through initiatives like Project Baon, MBPS colleague-volunteers addressed food insecurity and supported disaster response efforts in Cebu. The results were tangible: 2,000 relief kits distributed, 5,000 hot meals served, and global colleagues contributing donations that Manulife matched dollar-for-dollar.

Empowering the Next Generation Through Technology


Manulife IT Delivery Center also focused on youth development through its Code4Future program. Two learning sessions in 2025 introduced 73 young learners to coding and creative problem-solving, supported by more than 80 employee volunteers. Beyond technical skills, the sessions aimed to show how technology can be a creative and empowering tool.

Creativity Meets Sustainability in the Workplace

Sustainability at Manulife Philippines also shows up in unexpected ways. At its newly opened agency office in Ayala North Exchange, the company unveiled a mural titled “From Trash to Tree-sure.” Created from old t-shirts, repurposed tarpaulins, and used beverage cartons, the piece was built by Manulife advisors and volunteers in collaboration with JunkNot through its Trash Innovation Exchange.

The mural serves as a daily reminder that sustainable practices and innovation can coexist, even in office spaces.

Colleague-Driven Giving That Multiplies Impact

Employee participation continues to be a driving force behind Manulife’s initiatives. In 2025, colleagues in the Philippines logged over 13,000 volunteer hours. This effort was amplified during the annual Season of Giving, where employees donated to causes of their choice.

Manulife matched donations dollar-for-dollar up to CA$1,000 in Asia, turning individual generosity into collective impact. Volunteer hours were also recognized regardless of the cause, allowing employees to support initiatives close to their hearts.

“Filipinos entrust us with their financial futures, and that trust comes with a clear responsibility to invest back in meaningful and lasting ways,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer of Manulife Philippines. “The Season of Giving puts this belief into action.”

Global Chief Marketing Officer Karen Leggett echoed this sentiment during a year-end seedling activity in Tanay, Rizal, emphasizing how hands-on volunteerism turns sustainability commitments into tangible outcomes for communities and future generations.

Why This Matters for Businesses Today

Manulife Financial Asia Limited’s recognition at the ACES Awards 2025 as a Top Sustainability Advocate in Asia reflects a broader industry shift. Sustainability is no longer a side initiative. It is becoming a core business strategy that strengthens trust, resilience, and long-term growth.

For Filipino companies, Manulife Philippines’ approach offers a practical model: align global commitments with local realities, empower employees, and invest consistently in communities.
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