SOCIAL MEDIA

Mindanao’s First Bamboo School Sets a New Standard for Climate-Resilient Classrooms

Monday, March 23, 2026


A new kind of classroom has officially opened in Mindanao and it could change how schools are built across the Philippines. In a region where access to safe, durable learning spaces remains a challenge, this newly launched facility shows how innovation and collaboration can come together to create something far more impactful than just another school building.

A First for Sustainable School Design in Mindanao

Landan Elementary School in Polomolok, South Cotabato is now home to Mindanao’s first school built using Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology or CBFT. The 175-square-meter structure includes two classrooms designed not only for daily lessons but also as evacuation centers during extreme weather.

This dual-purpose design reflects a growing need for infrastructure that goes beyond function. In disaster-prone communities, schools often become safe havens, making durability and resilience just as important as accessibility.

How Bamboo Is Changing the Way Schools Are Built

At the heart of this project is CBFT, an innovative construction method that combines cement with engineered bamboo frames and trusses. The result is a structure that is both strong and environmentally responsible.

According to project partners, these buildings are tested against typhoons, earthquakes, fire, and even insect damage. What makes it even more compelling is its sustainability advantage. Bamboo-integrated construction can reduce carbon emissions by as much as 70 percent compared to traditional concrete systems.

This makes the technology not just practical, but also aligned with climate action goals.

A Collaboration Across Sectors

The project is the result of a multi-sector partnership involving Dole Philippines, A.Y. Foundation, Mahintana Foundation, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the local government of Polomolok.

The classroom was constructed by the Philippine Army’s 549th Engineer Battalion, highlighting how public and private sectors can work together to address long-standing challenges in education infrastructure.

In a statement, Dole Philippines Senior EVP and FPG President Masazumi Nishikage emphasized that the initiative shows what can be achieved when innovation and shared purpose align.

Representing A.Y. Foundation, April Evangelista of RCBC shared that the classroom stands as more than just a building, describing it as a symbol of hope and a step toward more inclusive and sustainable learning environments.

Supporting Education in Underserved Communities

This initiative is part of the Adopt-A-School Program, which focuses on improving access to quality education in upland and underserved communities across Sarangani and South Cotabato.

Mahintana Foundation Executive Director Liza Duropan-Lopez explained that the project plays a crucial role in supporting Indigenous and rural communities by providing safe and reliable learning spaces.

Beyond education, the initiative also supports local livelihoods. Bamboo construction creates a value chain that benefits farmers and provides opportunities for skills development in local communities.

A Scalable Solution to the Classroom Shortage

The Philippines currently faces a shortage of around 165,000 classrooms nationwide. At the current pace, it could take decades to close this gap.

Experts estimate that at least 7,000 classrooms need to be built each year over the next 15 years to meet demand. This is where CBFT presents a promising solution.

BASE Bahay Foundation General Manager Engr. Luis Felipe Lopez highlighted that the technology is designed to be scalable, offering a faster, more sustainable way to build classrooms while supporting local economies.

The Department of Education also welcomed the initiative. Education Program Supervisor Michael Poblador expressed appreciation for the project, noting that it directly addresses the urgent need for more classrooms while introducing a model that can be replicated across the country.

More Than Just Schools

CBFT is not limited to classrooms. The technology is already accredited by the National Housing Authority and can be used for community centers, offices, and even commercial or industrial spaces.

Globally, BASE has built more than 2,300 CBFT structures, providing shelter to over 10,500 people and contributing significant carbon savings.

With several more school projects underway in the Philippines, this approach is gaining traction as a viable long-term solution for infrastructure development.

This project is more than a milestone for Mindanao. It represents a shift in how we think about building schools in the Philippines.

If scaled effectively, CBFT could help address the country’s classroom shortage while promoting sustainability, disaster resilience, and community development all at once.

For communities that need it most, that kind of innovation could make a lasting difference.
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Why Trust Matters More Than Ever in a Digital World: Inside IDfy Philippines’ Fraud and Identity Conversation

Friday, March 20, 2026


Trust used to be something we built through familiarity. It came from shared communities, known names, and personal connections. Today, that idea has evolved. In a digital-first world, trust is increasingly determined by systems, algorithms, and unseen data points. And when those systems fail, the consequences can be serious.

This shift took center stage at The Art & Architecture of Trust, an event hosted by IDfy Philippines, where leaders from banking, risk, and technology sectors gathered to unpack what trust really means in an age of digital fraud.

How Technology Is Redefining Trust

As more aspects of daily life move online, trust is no longer just about who knows you. It is about whether systems recognize and validate you.

From opening bank accounts to completing online transactions, digital identity has become the foundation of access. But when verification systems flag or fail users incorrectly, the impact can go beyond inconvenience. It can lead to frozen accounts, blocked transactions, or reputational damage.

This growing reliance on technology raises an important question: are the systems we depend on truly designed to protect trust?

When Fraud Becomes Harder to Detect

One of the biggest challenges discussed during the event is how modern fraud operates. Unlike before, fraud today does not always come with obvious warning signs.

It can appear credible, pass surface-level verification, and blend seamlessly into legitimate transactions. For financial institutions and digital platforms, this creates a difficult balance. Users expect fast and frictionless experiences, but speed can also expose vulnerabilities.

This tension between convenience and security is becoming a critical issue, especially as the Philippines continues to embrace digital transformation.

“Mayhem in Makati” Brings the Issue to Life


At the heart of the event was the launch of Mayhem in Makati, a graphic novel that explores the human side of digital fraud.

The story follows Cal, an investigative journalist shaped by a painful past. After his father became a victim of a major fraud case, Cal is driven to uncover the truth behind a new identity theft incident involving fraudulent loans.

What seems like a routine digital breach turns into something much bigger. The narrative highlights how systemic gaps in identity verification can have long-lasting consequences, not just for institutions, but for individuals caught in the middle.

The Real Cost of Broken Systems

During the discussion, Wriju Ray emphasized that our identities today are fragmented across digital platforms, often stored in systems we cannot see or control.


He pointed out in essence that while technology enables progress, it also exposes new vulnerabilities. When systems are compromised, individuals are often left to deal with the fallout, even if they did nothing wrong.

This reality shifts the burden of trust onto users, forcing them to fix problems they did not create.

Rethinking Responsibility in the Digital Age

A key takeaway from both the event and Mayhem in Makati is the need to rethink where responsibility lies.

Trust should not rest solely on individuals. Instead, it must be built into the systems that collect and process our data. Whether it is facial recognition, financial records, or personal identification, these systems must be designed with protection and accountability at their core.

In a rapidly digitizing Philippines, this is no longer optional. It is essential.

As more Filipinos rely on digital platforms for banking, payments, and everyday transactions, the importance of secure and reliable systems continues to grow.

Trust is no longer something that can be assumed. It has to be continuously earned and protected by the institutions and technologies we interact with daily.

If there is one takeaway from this conversation, it is this: in a world where identities can be compromised in seconds, building stronger, more trustworthy systems is not just a technical challenge. It is a responsibility.
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Ant International Partners with Argentina National Football Team to Boost Fintech Presence in Asia


In a move that blends the global appeal of football with the power of financial technology, Ant International has officially partnered with the Argentine Football Association. This collaboration marks a significant step in expanding the brand’s presence across Asia while tapping into one of the most iconic teams in world football.

For fans and consumers alike, this partnership signals a new era where sports and fintech intersect to create more engaging and connected experiences.

A Strategic Partnership with Football Royalty

As part of the agreement, Ant International becomes an Official Sponsor of the Argentina National Football Team in the Asia region, excluding the Middle East.

This is no ordinary team. Known globally as the “Albiceleste,” Argentina has cemented its legacy with three FIFA World Cup victories in 1978, 1986, and 2022, making it one of the most celebrated teams in football history.

By aligning with such a powerhouse, Ant International strengthens its global positioning while connecting with millions of passionate football fans across Asia.

Unlocking Marketing Power Across Fintech Brands

The partnership grants Ant International comprehensive marketing rights, allowing it to leverage the team’s brand and players across its growing portfolio. This includes platforms like Alipay+, Antom, Bettr, and WorldFirst.

Through these channels, the company plans to roll out strategic campaigns and activations that bring fans closer to the sport while showcasing its digital payment and financial solutions.

Connecting Technology, Communities, and Football

With operations spanning more than 30 offices worldwide, Ant International continues to push innovation through AI and blockchain-powered solutions. Its network already connects over 150 million merchants to 1.8 billion consumer accounts across Asia Pacific.

According to Peng Yang, the partnership reflects a shared vision between sports and technology. He emphasized that both industries have the power to break barriers and bring communities together, creating meaningful connections across markets.

Expanding Argentina’s Reach in Asia

From the football side, the partnership is also a strategic move to deepen engagement with Asian audiences.

Claudio Fabian Tapia shared in essence that football serves as a universal language that connects people worldwide. Through this collaboration, the organization aims to strengthen its connection with fans across the region.

Meanwhile, Leandro Petersen highlighted that the partnership represents a long-term commitment to growth, combining the strengths of two global leaders in sports and fintech.

This collaboration goes beyond sponsorship logos and endorsements. It reflects a broader trend where brands are leveraging sports to build deeper engagement and emotional connections with audiences.

For fintech companies like Ant International, aligning with a globally recognized team opens doors to new markets, while for football organizations, it creates opportunities to expand their fan base through digital innovation.

A Win for Fans and the Future of Digital Experiences

As Ant International rolls out its campaigns across Asia, fans can expect more immersive football experiences powered by technology. From digital payments to fan engagement initiatives, this partnership is set to redefine how audiences interact with both sports and fintech.

If you are a football fan or someone interested in the future of digital finance, this is one collaboration worth watching. It is where passion meets innovation on a global stage.
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RCBC Champions Women in Leadership: How Inclusive Culture Is Shaping the Bank’s Future


In today’s evolving workplace, leadership is no longer defined by titles alone. It is shaped by diversity, opportunity, and the ability to empower people across all levels. At Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation, this shift is clearly visible as women continue to play a major role in driving the bank forward.

With a growing number of women stepping into key roles, RCBC is not just embracing inclusivity. It is actively building a future where leadership is accessible, dynamic, and representative of its workforce.

Women Take the Lead at RCBC

One of the most notable highlights within RCBC is its workforce composition. Women now make up 65% of employees, significantly outnumbering their male counterparts at 35%.

This strong representation spans across various roles, from frontline banking and operations to senior management positions. At the helm is chairperson Helen Yuchengco-Dee, whose leadership reflects the bank’s commitment to empowering women at the highest level.

Rather than focusing on numbers alone, RCBC views this as a reflection of a workplace where talent is nurtured and given equal opportunity to grow.

Building a Culture Where Talent Thrives

At the core of RCBC’s approach is the belief that inclusivity strengthens the organization. The bank continues to invest in programs that support employee development, regardless of gender.

As shared by Rowena F. Subido, the strong presence of women highlights a culture that recognizes and develops talent through mentorship, leadership training, and supportive workplace systems.

These initiatives are designed to create an environment where more women can confidently step into leadership roles and contribute to shaping the bank’s future.

Opportunities Across All Levels

Women at RCBC are not limited to specific roles. They are actively involved in various functions that keep the organization running smoothly.

From customer-facing roles in branches to strategic positions behind the scenes, their contributions reflect the bank’s commitment to building a strong and diverse talent pipeline.

By providing continuous learning opportunities and structured development programs, RCBC ensures that employees are equipped to take on bigger responsibilities over time.

Strengthening the Bank Through Inclusive Leadership

As part of the Yuchengco Group of Companies, RCBC continues to expand its reach through both traditional banking services and digital innovation.

Its focus on inclusivity aligns with its broader goals of improving customer experience, enhancing financial services, and adapting to the demands of a rapidly changing industry.

By empowering women and fostering a culture of growth, the bank is strengthening not just its workforce, but its long-term sustainability.

RCBC’s progress highlights an important shift in how organizations approach leadership. Inclusive workplaces are no longer optional. They are essential for growth, innovation, and resilience.

For many Filipinas, seeing women thrive in leadership roles sends a powerful message. It shows that opportunities are expanding and that success is no longer limited by traditional barriers.

Toward a More Inclusive Future

As one of the country’s leading privately owned banks, RCBC continues to set an example by prioritizing inclusivity and professional growth.

If there is one takeaway, it is this: when organizations invest in people and create equal opportunities, everyone benefits. And in RCBC’s case, empowering women is proving to be a key driver in building a stronger, future-ready institution.
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Filipinas Are Prioritizing Health and Financial Freedom, New Manulife Study Reveals


More Filipinas are redefining what it means to build a future. It is no longer just about career success or financial stability. It is about living well, staying healthy, and having the freedom to make independent life choices. A recent study by Manulife highlights this shift, showing that Filipino women are increasingly focused on both their health and financial independence, even as they navigate rising stress levels.

Filipinas Value Healthier Years More Than Ever

According to Manulife’s #FYP: Future-proofing Young Pinoys study, 60% of young Filipino women prioritize their healthspan, or the number of years spent in good health. This is significantly higher compared to 46% of male respondents.

This growing awareness reflects a deeper understanding that longevity is not just about living longer. It is about maintaining quality of life, energy, and overall well-being through the years.

Financial Independence Is a Top Priority

Beyond health, Filipinas are also placing strong emphasis on financial independence. The study found that 60% of women consider it a key goal, compared to only 44% of men.

This signals a shift toward self-reliance and empowerment, where women want to secure their future on their own terms. Whether it is building a career, managing personal finances, or planning long-term goals, financial confidence is becoming a non-negotiable.

The Reality Behind the Pressure: High Stress Levels

While the priorities are clear, the journey is far from easy. The same study reveals that 73% of female respondents experience high stress levels, noticeably higher than the 55% reported by men.

A major contributor is the ongoing struggle with work-life balance. About 22% of women report challenges in balancing responsibilities, compared to 15% of men. Many Filipinas juggle multiple roles, from professional duties to caregiving responsibilities, which can take a toll on both mental and physical health.

Everyday Habits Are Taking a Hit

This pressure is reflected in daily routines. One in five women report not getting enough sleep, while 15% find it difficult to maintain a balanced diet.

These seemingly small habits play a crucial role in overall wellness. When disrupted, they can affect energy levels, resilience, and long-term health outcomes.

Awareness Is High, But Action Remains a Challenge

Interestingly, the study points out that knowledge is not the problem. Many women are well-informed about health and wellness practices. However, 76% of millennial women say stress prevents them from achieving their desired level of well-being.

As Grace Mallabo explained in essence, many women today are feeling the strain of managing multiple responsibilities at once. With career demands, financial pressures, and caregiving roles overlapping, finding balance has become increasingly complex.

How Manulife Supports Filipinas’ Health and Financial Goals

In response, Manulife is offering solutions designed to support women at different life stages.

Products like Manulife HealthFlex provide coverage for over 100 critical illnesses, including additional protection for women-specific cancers such as breast, cervical, ovarian, and uterine cancer. Meanwhile, Manulife Medical Secure offers up to PHP5 million in medical coverage with access to a wide network of hospitals and clinics nationwide.

For long-term financial planning, Manulife GoalReady combines protection and investment features to help women build financial security over time.

Beyond financial products, Manulife also promotes healthier lifestyles through initiatives like ManulifeMOVE, which encourages daily movement and proactive wellness habits.

The company has also partnered with AC Health to raise awareness about cancer prevention and improve access to care.

As conversations around Women’s Month continue, this study serves as an important reminder. Taking care of your health and securing your finances are not luxuries. They are essential foundations for a better future.

With the right tools, support, and mindset, Filipinas can move forward with more confidence, balancing life’s demands while still prioritizing their own well-being.

If there is one takeaway, it is this: investing in your health and financial independence today is one of the most powerful decisions you can make for your future.


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PLDT Enterprise Launches Metro TRACC for Faster and More Secure Cloud Connectivity in the Philippines


As more businesses move their operations to the cloud, speed, security, and reliability have become critical priorities. To address these growing demands, PLDT Enterprise has introduced a new solution designed to simplify and strengthen how companies connect to cloud platforms.

Called Metro TRACC, this latest offering aims to give enterprises a more efficient way to access cloud services while improving overall performance and security.

Metro TRACC, or Metro Ethernet Trusted Route for Accelerated Cloud Connectivity, is a service developed in partnership with VITRO Inc..

It provides a direct and private connection between enterprise sites and VITRO data centers, particularly VITRO Makati 2.

This setup allows businesses to access major global cloud platforms without relying on traditional international routing, which can often lead to delays and inconsistencies.

Faster, More Reliable Cloud Access

By using Carrier Ethernet technology, Metro TRACC creates a dedicated pathway for data to travel. This results in lower latency, faster speeds, and more consistent performance, especially for mission-critical applications.

According to Nico Alcoseba of PLDT Enterprise, the service enables companies to maximize the full potential of cloud computing by offering a secure and high-performance route to leading platforms.

For businesses that rely heavily on cloud-based tools, this can translate to smoother operations, improved productivity, and better user experience.

Built for Security and Scalability

Security remains a top concern for enterprises, especially when handling sensitive data. Metro TRACC addresses this by providing a private network connection, reducing exposure to public internet risks.

The solution is also designed for hybrid and multi-cloud environments, allowing companies to scale their operations as needed while maintaining strong data protection standards.

This flexibility makes it suitable for organizations looking to expand their digital infrastructure without compromising security.

Simplifying Cloud Connectivity for Enterprises

One of the standout benefits of Metro TRACC is its streamlined approach to connectivity.

Instead of managing separate services for Metro Ethernet and data center cross-connections, businesses can now rely on a single, integrated solution from PLDT Enterprise. This simplifies procurement, reduces complexity, and speeds up deployment.

For companies undergoing digital transformation, this kind of efficiency can make a significant difference in how quickly they can adapt to new technologies.

Supporting the Future of Digital Transformation

The launch of Metro TRACC reflects PLDT Enterprise’s broader commitment to helping businesses stay competitive in an increasingly digital landscape.

By combining its network capabilities with VITRO’s robust data center ecosystem, the company is positioning itself as a key enabler of enterprise growth in the Philippines.

As organizations continue to adopt cloud technologies, solutions like Metro TRACC are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring reliable, secure, and scalable connectivity.

Why Businesses Should Pay Attention

For enterprises looking to optimize their cloud strategy, Metro TRACC offers a practical and forward-thinking solution.

With faster access, improved security, and simplified management, it addresses some of the most common challenges businesses face when transitioning to the cloud.

If your organization is planning to scale its digital operations, investing in reliable cloud connectivity could be a smart move.
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She Matters: Merck's Health Summit Highlights Why Women’s Health Is Key to Economy and Planet


Women’s health is no longer just a personal issue. It is increasingly seen as a driving force behind economic growth and environmental sustainability. This was the central message at the recent She Matters: Women’s Health Summit, where leaders across healthcare and policy came together to push for stronger action and awareness.

Hosted by Merck at Conrad Manila, the event brought into focus how investing in women’s wellbeing creates far-reaching benefits that extend beyond individuals to families, communities, and even the planet.

A Unified Call for Women’s Health Advocacy

Now in its second year, the summit gathered doctors, policymakers, and advocates under the theme “Healthy Women, Healthy Economy, Healthy Planet.” The goal was clear: to strengthen collaboration and drive meaningful change in how women’s health is addressed across all stages of life.


In her remarks, Martha Paiz, Managing Director and General Manager of Merck Inc., emphasized that the conversation goes beyond healthcare. She highlighted that when women thrive, entire societies benefit, reinforcing the need to prioritize their health and voices in both public and private sectors.

Why Cardiometabolic Health Deserves More Attention

One of the major discussions centered on cardiometabolic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and polycystic ovary syndrome. Experts noted that these issues are increasingly affecting women at younger ages, yet often go undiagnosed.

Because symptoms can be subtle or atypical, many women only discover these conditions when complications like heart disease or stroke arise. This makes early screening and awareness critical in preventing long-term health risks.

Healthcare leaders at the summit stressed that proactive detection and treatment could significantly improve outcomes and reduce the burden of these diseases.

The Link Between Women’s Health and Economic Growth

Beyond medical concerns, the summit highlighted a powerful idea: healthy women are essential to a thriving economy.


Dr. Beverly Lorraine Ho of Ayala Healthcare Holdings, Inc. explained that when women are physically and mentally well, they are better able to contribute as professionals, caregivers, and leaders. Investing in women’s health, she noted, is not just a social responsibility but a strategic economic move that benefits entire communities.

Thyroid Health: A Silent but Serious Issue

Another key focus was thyroid health, a condition that disproportionately affects women but often remains overlooked.

Despite its small size, the thyroid gland plays a major role in regulating metabolism, energy, fertility, and even mood. Subtle symptoms like fatigue or weight changes can easily be dismissed, leading to delayed diagnosis.


Experts including Dr. Nemencio Nicodemus Jr. emphasized the importance of early screening, especially during pregnancy, to protect both mother and child. Meanwhile, Dr. Jeremy Robles pointed out the need to recognize thyroid disorders as part of broader noncommunicable disease strategies to improve awareness and access to care.

Environmental Health and Its Impact on Women

The summit also explored a growing concern: how environmental factors affect women’s health.

Exposure to microplastics and endocrine-disrupting chemicals, now commonly found in food, water, and air, may interfere with hormonal balance. These disruptions can potentially impact fertility, metabolism, and thyroid function.

According to Dr. Renzo R. Guinto, the concept of planetary health highlights how closely human health is tied to environmental conditions. Addressing pollution and climate change is therefore essential to preventing future health issues.

Building Climate-Resilient, Women-Centered Health Systems

The conversation also extended to the need for climate-resilient healthcare systems. Public health leaders stressed that women should be at the center of these efforts.


Dr. Ronald Law from the Department of Health shared that protecting women’s health strengthens families and communities, making it a critical component of long-term sustainability.

More Than a Summit: A Call to Action

At its core, the She Matters Summit was not just about sharing insights. It was about driving real change.

By bridging healthcare, policy, and environmental advocacy, the event underscored the need for a more holistic approach to women’s health. From hospitals to workplaces and government policies, the message was clear: women’s health must be prioritized everywhere.

As awareness continues to grow, initiatives like this signal a shift toward more inclusive and forward-thinking healthcare systems.

With rising health challenges and environmental concerns, the urgency to act has never been greater. The summit serves as a timely reminder that improving women’s health is one of the most effective ways to create lasting impact across multiple sectors.

For readers, this is also a call to stay informed, prioritize regular health screenings, and support initiatives that advocate for women’s wellbeing. Because when women are healthier, everyone benefits.
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