SOCIAL MEDIA

BIAP at 38: How the Beverage Industry’s Collective Voice Shapes Growth in the Philippines

Tuesday, May 5, 2026


In an industry shaped by changing regulations, sustainability demands, and evolving consumer habits, collaboration is no longer optional. It is essential. For nearly four decades, the Beverage Industry Association of the Philippines has served as that unifying force, bringing together major players to move the sector forward with a shared purpose.

As BIAP celebrates its 38th anniversary, its role has never been more relevant in guiding one of the country’s most dynamic industries.

A Unified Voice in a Rapidly Changing Industry

From bottled water and juices to soft drinks and energy beverages, the beverage industry is deeply embedded in everyday Filipino life. But beyond convenience and refreshment, it also plays a major role in manufacturing, employment, and economic activity.

Established in 1988, the Beverage Industry Association of the Philippines was created to bring together companies across this diverse landscape. Its mission is to provide a platform for collaboration, enabling businesses to align on key issues and engage more effectively with government and stakeholders.

In today’s environment, where challenges are increasingly complex, this kind of unified representation helps ensure that industry perspectives contribute to balanced and practical policymaking.

Raising Standards Across the Sector

Beyond advocacy, the Beverage Industry Association of the Philippines plays a key role in promoting quality and safety across the industry.

Through shared standards, good manufacturing practices, and a code of ethics, BIAP helps ensure that products consistently meet expectations. This alignment strengthens consumer trust while supporting long-term sustainability in operations.

The association also facilitates discussions on important regulatory matters, including taxation, product standards, and broader manufacturing policies, ensuring open dialogue between the private sector and government.

A Platform for Knowledge and Collaboration

Another key function of BIAP is knowledge sharing. Through seminars, workshops, and technical exchanges, members stay informed about industry trends, innovations, and regulatory updates.

This collaborative approach allows companies to adapt more effectively to change while maintaining consistent standards across the sector.

Powered by Industry Leaders

The strength of the Beverage Industry Association of the Philippines lies in its diverse membership. It brings together leading companies such as San Miguel Corporation, Nestlé Philippines, PepsiCo, and Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines, among others.

Leading the organization is Juan Lorenzo Tañada, who continues to guide the association in fostering meaningful engagement between industry stakeholders and the communities they serve.

Looking Ahead: A More Responsible and Collaborative Future

As the beverage industry continues to evolve, the Beverage Industry Association of the Philippines remains focused on enabling responsible growth.

Its priorities include strengthening partnerships across sectors, supporting innovation and sustainability, and promoting responsible industry practices.

After 38 years, BIAP’s mission goes beyond representation. It is about shaping how the industry grows, ensuring it remains aligned with national priorities while continuing to serve Filipino consumers.

For businesses and consumers alike, this means a more reliable, responsible, and forward-looking beverage industry.
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Jollibee Group Wins Back-to-Back 3G Sustainability Awards and Secures First Service Excellence Championship


The Jollibee Group continues to strengthen its leadership in sustainability and customer experience, earning major global recognition once again. This 2026, the company received the 3G Excellence in Sustainability Reporting Award for the second consecutive year, while also taking home its first-ever 3G Championship Award for Service Excellence.

These milestones highlight how the brand is evolving beyond great food, focusing on transparency, accountability, and meaningful impact.

Recognized for Transparent and Credible Sustainability Reporting

The awards were presented by Cambridge International Finance Advisory through the prestigious 3G Awards, which recognize companies that prioritize governance, sustainability, and social responsibility.

For Jollibee Group, the recognition reinforces its commitment to delivering sustainability reports that are not only transparent but also aligned with global standards.

This marks the second straight year the company has earned the Excellence in Sustainability Reporting award, building on its growing list of international recognitions.

The “Joy for Tomorrow” Agenda in Action

At the core of these achievements is the company’s sustainability framework, Joy for Tomorrow, launched in 2022.

This global agenda is built on three key pillars: Food, People, and Planet.

Through these pillars, the company focuses on critical areas such as food quality and safety, responsible sourcing, employee welfare, community development, and environmental initiatives like waste reduction and water management.

The recognition signals that these efforts are not only progressing but are also measurable and credible on a global scale.

A First: Championship Award for Service Excellence

Beyond sustainability, Jollibee Group also achieved a new milestone by winning the 3G Championship Award for Service Excellence 2026.

This award recognizes consistently high service standards, dedication to exceeding customer expectations, and innovation in customer experience.

According to Pepot Miñana, the dual recognition reflects the collective effort of teams across different markets in advancing both sustainability and service quality.

Raising the Bar for Purpose-Driven Growth

With multiple 3G Awards under its belt, including previous wins in sustainability reporting and community development, Jollibee Group continues to set higher standards in the industry.

More than just recognition, these awards serve as motivation to keep improving how the company reports its sustainability progress, delivers customer service, and drives long-term impact.

For consumers, this means supporting a brand that is actively working toward better practices, not just in business, but in the communities it serves.
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STT GDC Philippines Launches DC Power-Up 2.0 to Train the Next Generation of Data Center Professionals

Thursday, April 30, 2026


As the Philippines continues to strengthen its digital infrastructure, the demand for skilled professionals in the data center sector is rapidly growing. In response, ST Telemedia Global Data Centres Philippines has introduced DC Power-Up 2.0, a training and certification initiative designed to equip Filipinos with industry-ready skills.

This latest program reflects a strong push toward building local expertise while creating more opportunities in one of the country’s fastest-growing tech sectors.

Expanding Opportunities Through DC Power-Up 2.0

Following the success of its first run, DC Power-Up 2.0 welcomed 27 participants, doubling the initial intake while maintaining a focused and high-quality learning environment.

The program offers a three-day intensive training that gives participants complimentary access to the Data Centre Foundation Certificate, a globally recognized credential that covers essential knowledge in data center operations and infrastructure.

Notably, all participants across both program runs successfully passed the certification exam, highlighting the effectiveness of the training approach.

From Training to Real Career Opportunities

One of the standout outcomes of DC Power-Up 2.0 is its direct impact on employability. Top graduates from the program were hired, demonstrating how the initiative bridges the gap between education and actual industry opportunities.

According to Carlo Malana, the program is part of a broader commitment to developing Filipino professionals who can contribute to the country’s growing digital ecosystem.

He emphasized that investing in local talent is essential to building a resilient and sustainable data center industry in the Philippines.

Globally Recognized Training with Industry Partners

DC Power-Up 2.0 is delivered in partnership with EPI Group, a globally accredited provider of data center training and certification.

Edward van Leent shared that the collaboration ensures participants receive globally aligned knowledge that supports their entry into the industry.

This partnership helps maintain international standards while nurturing local talent, making Filipino professionals more competitive in the global tech landscape.

Building a More Inclusive Talent Pipeline

Beyond technical skills, DC Power-Up 2.0 also focuses on inclusivity. The latest batch showed improved gender representation, reflecting ongoing efforts to make the data center industry more accessible to a wider range of participants.

This approach supports a more diverse and future-ready workforce, aligned with global trends in the tech sector.

As digital demand continues to rise, data centers play a critical role in powering everything from cloud services to online platforms. Programs like DC Power-Up 2.0 ensure that the country is not just building infrastructure, but also developing the people who will run it.

ST Telemedia Global Data Centres Philippines is setting a strong example by investing in both technology and talent.

For aspiring tech professionals, this initiative opens doors to a promising career path. For the industry, it signals a more sustainable future powered by skilled Filipino talent.
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ASEAN Foundation Launches ‘Scam Ready ASEAN’ to Combat Rising Online Scams in Southeast Asia


As online scams continue to surge across Southeast Asia, a new regional initiative is stepping in to help protect millions of people. The ASEAN Foundation has officially launched Scam Ready ASEAN, a large-scale program designed to strengthen digital safety, boost awareness, and empower communities against online fraud.

Unveiled during the Google 2026 Online Safety Dialogue in Kuala Lumpur, the initiative signals a stronger, more coordinated response to one of today’s fastest-growing digital threats.

A Growing Digital Threat Across Southeast Asia

Online scams are no longer isolated incidents. They have become a widespread regional issue affecting individuals, families, and businesses alike.

In 2024 alone, Southeast Asia recorded an estimated USD 23.6 billion in losses due to online fraud. Common scams include phishing, impersonation, fake job offers, and fraudulent online selling schemes.

In the Philippines, authorities such as the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group continue to intensify operations, with multiple arrests already recorded in early 2026. Despite regulatory efforts like SIM registration, scammers are becoming more sophisticated, often using coordinated messaging and digital platforms to target victims.

What Is Scam Ready ASEAN?

Scam Ready ASEAN is one of the region’s most ambitious digital safety programs to date. Backed by USD 5 million in funding from Google.org, the initiative aims to build scam resilience for up to 3 million people across ASEAN.

Its core mission is simple but critical: equip communities with the knowledge, confidence, and critical thinking skills needed to identify and avoid scams.

The program will:
  • Partner with 20 local organizations across 11 ASEAN member states
  • Train 2,000 master trainers using a “train-the-trainer” model
  • Reach at least 550,000 direct beneficiaries through structured modules
  • Expand awareness through localized campaigns and policy dialogues

Interactive tools, including educational games, will also be used to make learning more engaging and accessible.

A Collaborative, Region-Wide Approach

The initiative reflects a broader shift toward collaboration across sectors. Governments, tech companies, financial institutions, and civil society groups are all working together to strengthen defenses against online fraud.


According to Piti Srisangnam, scams today are a shared regional challenge that impact not only individuals but also trust in digital systems. He emphasized that Scam Ready ASEAN focuses on prevention rather than reaction, aiming to prepare communities before scams happen.

Meanwhile, Sapna Chadha highlighted that a trusted digital economy depends on strong security measures and informed users. She noted that empowering citizens is just as important as improving technology.

Strengthening Regional Anti-Scam Efforts

Scam Ready ASEAN builds on existing regional efforts such as the ASEAN Anti-Scam Working Group, established during the 4th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting in 2024.

By aligning with these frameworks, the program transforms policy commitments into actionable, on-the-ground initiatives. It also introduces a “whole-of-society” approach that integrates education, enforcement, and collaboration.

The launch event gathered key leaders and stakeholders, including government officials and representatives from the tech and financial sectors, to align strategies and strengthen cooperation moving forward.

As digital payments, social media, and artificial intelligence continue to evolve, scams are becoming more complex and harder to detect. This makes awareness and education more important than ever.

The ASEAN Foundation, through Scam Ready ASEAN, is setting a strong foundation for a safer digital future. By empowering individuals with knowledge and tools, the initiative helps communities stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.

For everyday users, this is a reminder to stay vigilant, informed, and proactive when navigating the digital world.
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Ant International Unveils Open-Source Protocol to Power the Future of AI Commerce


The way we pay could soon change dramatically. Ant International has introduced a new open-sourced technology designed to support the next wave of digital transactions, where AI agents can make purchases on behalf of users.

Called the Agentic Mobile Protocol (AMP), this innovation aims to make AI-driven commerce more secure, seamless, and accessible across mobile platforms and devices.

What Is the Agentic Mobile Protocol?

At its core, AMP is a framework that allows AI agents to connect directly with mobile payment systems such as digital wallets, banking apps, and super apps.

Unlike traditional payment methods that rely heavily on card-based systems, AMP is built specifically for mobile-first and AI-powered environments. This means transactions can happen more smoothly across smartphones, wearables, and even emerging tech like AR glasses and in-car systems.

Why AI Commerce Is Gaining Momentum

AI commerce, also known as agentic commerce, is quickly evolving from experimental use to real-world application.

With billions of people already using digital wallets globally, the demand for smarter, automated transactions is rising. AMP is designed to support this shift by enabling AI agents to handle tasks like ordering food, booking rides, or planning trips with minimal friction.

Key Features That Stand Out

AMP introduces several capabilities that could redefine how payments work:

Faster and Simpler Integration

The protocol reduces the steps needed to connect AI agents to digital wallets by up to 50%, making it easier for businesses to adopt.

Built-In Security and Trust

With features like a money-back guarantee and a “Know Your Agent” system, AMP ensures that transactions remain safe while verifying the identity and capabilities of AI agents.

Cross-Device Compatibility

From smartphones to smartwatches and even cars, AMP allows payments to work seamlessly across multiple devices.

Micro and Nano Transactions

One of its most advanced features is the ability to process extremely small transactions between AI agents, enabling high-frequency payments that traditional systems cannot handle.

A Growing Global Ecosystem

AMP is not being developed in isolation. Alipay+, Ant International’s global wallet gateway, already connects over 40 digital wallet partners, covering billions of user accounts and millions of merchants worldwide.

The company is also collaborating with major players like Mastercard, Visa, and Google to further develop AI-driven payment systems.

What This Means for Businesses and Consumers

According to Jiang-Ming Yang, the goal is to create a universal and secure standard that allows AI agents to transact across platforms without friction.

For businesses, this could mean easier expansion into digital markets and more efficient operations. For everyday users, it could lead to a future where tasks like shopping, booking, and payments happen automatically in the background.

The Bigger Picture: A Shift Toward Smarter Spending

As technology continues to evolve, the idea of AI handling everyday transactions is becoming more realistic. AMP represents a step toward that future, where payments are not just digital, but intelligent.

If widely adopted, this could reshape how we interact with money entirely, making commerce faster, more personalized, and deeply integrated into daily life.
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Shopee Partners with PNP Eastern Police District to Support Police Families Through Online Business Training


Building a stable income is a priority for many Filipino families, including those behind the country’s frontliners. In a meaningful step toward financial empowerment, Shopee Philippines has partnered with the Philippine National Police Eastern Police District to help police families start and grow their own online businesses.

This collaboration aims to turn e-commerce into a practical livelihood opportunity for families across Eastern Metro Manila.

Bringing Digital Livelihood Opportunities to Police Families

The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding that introduces Shopee’s Tatak Pinoy program to the PNP-EPD community.

Under the initiative, aptly named “Love at First Click: Negosyong Online para sa Pamilyang Pulis,” families of police personnel will gain access to training that teaches them how to build and manage online stores.

The goal is simple but impactful: provide sustainable income opportunities that can improve financial stability at home.

What the Tatak Pinoy Program Offers

Shopee’s Tatak Pinoy program serves as the backbone of this initiative. Originally designed to support micro, small, and medium enterprises, it has already trained more than 700 sellers across multiple cities since 2025.

Participants will learn essential e-commerce skills, including:
  • Setting up an online store
  • Digital marketing strategies
  • Order fulfillment processes
  • Customer engagement techniques

These are the same tools that have helped many small entrepreneurs transition into successful online sellers.

A Shared Commitment to Community Support

According to Jack Ng, the company believes that e-commerce can create equal opportunities for more Filipinos, not just traditional business owners. By extending this program to police families, Shopee hopes to provide practical skills that lead to real income.

Meanwhile, Aden Lagradante emphasized that supporting police personnel goes beyond their duties in public safety. He shared that helping their families access livelihood opportunities strengthens the entire community.

Police officers play a critical role in maintaining safety, but their families often face financial challenges like any other household. Programs like this help bridge that gap by offering accessible ways to earn income through digital platforms.

By equipping families with e-commerce skills, the initiative also contributes to a more inclusive digital economy, where more Filipinos can participate and benefit.

A Step Toward Inclusive Growth

This partnership reflects a growing trend of using technology to create real-world impact. As Shopee Philippines continues to expand its Tatak Pinoy Roadshow nationwide, more communities can expect similar opportunities in the future.

For families looking to start a small business, this initiative shows that with the right tools and support, going digital can open new doors.
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How Women Leaders at BPI AIA Are Shaping the Future of Health and Financial Protection


Leadership today is no longer just about strategy. It is about empathy, understanding, and creating solutions that truly reflect people’s needs. At BPI AIA, women are playing a powerful role in redefining how health and financial protection are delivered to Filipino families.

As the definition of wellness expands beyond physical health, leadership that understands both emotional and financial realities is becoming more essential than ever.

A More Human Approach to Health and Protection

For many Filipinos, health now means more than staying physically well. It also includes financial stability, long-term planning, and peace of mind.

At BPI AIA, this shift is shaping how products and services are developed. The company focuses on helping families prepare for life’s uncertainties while building resilience for the future. And behind these solutions are leaders who prioritize connection and understanding.

According to Karen Custodia, the future of the industry will be shaped by leaders who understand people on a deeper level, not just market trends. She emphasized that empathy and relevance are key to building meaningful relationships with customers.

Women Driving Change Across the Organization

Women make up nearly two-thirds of BPI AIA’s workforce, spanning both sales and non-sales roles. This strong representation extends to leadership positions, reflecting a long-standing commitment to inclusivity.

This is not just about numbers. In an industry built on trust, having diverse perspectives leads to better decision-making and more thoughtful solutions. Women leaders bring insights that reflect the real needs of families, especially during critical life moments.

Their influence can be seen in how services are designed to be both financially sound and genuinely supportive.

Creating a Workplace Where Women Can Thrive

Behind this representation is a deliberate effort to invest in people. BPI AIA promotes mentorship, leadership development, and career mobility, giving employees clear pathways to grow.

Programs are designed to help professionals move from advisory roles into leadership positions over time. This creates not just jobs, but long-term careers with purpose.

As shared by Juan Miguel Corona, empowering women in the workplace requires active effort. He noted that leaders, including male allies, play a crucial role in opening opportunities and challenging bias to support talent at every stage.

Meanwhile, Paolo Reyes highlighted that inclusion must be intentional. Building a culture of trust and accountability ensures that women can step into leadership roles with confidence.

Building a Strong Pipeline of Future Leaders

The future of any industry depends on who is encouraged to join and stay. At BPI AIA, initiatives like SHEConnects, a female employee network, provide a space for mentorship, collaboration, and support.

These efforts are complemented by leadership development programs that equip women with the skills needed to succeed and lead.

For Orange Galsim, having a supportive environment makes a real difference. She shared that strong leadership and inclusive teams help drive both performance and purpose, especially in roles that directly impact families’ lives.

As industries evolve, organizations that invest in inclusive leadership are better positioned to adapt and grow. At BPI AIA, empowering women is not just a value. It is a long-term strategy that strengthens the entire organization.

For professionals looking for meaningful careers, this approach offers both purpose and opportunity. And for customers, it translates into more thoughtful, human-centered solutions.

A Future Built on Inclusive Leadership

The impact of women leaders at BPI AIA goes beyond the workplace. It shapes how families are supported, how services are delivered, and how trust is built over time.

As more organizations embrace inclusive leadership, the result is a stronger, more resilient future for everyone. If you are looking for a career or simply want to understand where the industry is heading, this is a shift worth paying attention to.
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