61st ANVIL Awards Reflect Growing Confidence in PH PR

61st ANVIL Awards Reflect Growing Confidence in PH PR

Sunday, January 18, 2026

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

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

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

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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Vista Land Advances Multi-Market Residential Expansion as the Leading Integrated Property Developer in 2025

Vista Land Advances Multi-Market Residential Expansion as the Leading Integrated Property Developer in 2025

Monday, January 12, 2026

Vista Land sustained broad-based growth across its residential portfolio, solidifying its standing as a premier real estate development conglomerate. Its expansion in 2025 was underpinned by diversified development and a calibrated regional response to shifting housing demand, particularly the continued decentralization of economic activity and the rise of provincial centers.

Rather than concentrating volume-driven growth in a single segment, it pursued parallel developments across integrated estates, house-and-lot, and condominium properties. This multi-market strategy enabled Vista Land to effectively balance its market exposure while scaling its footprint nationwide.

Master planned developments

Vista Estates continued to serve as anchors across growth centers, combining residential, commercial, and institutional uses. In Central Luzon, Cascaia in San Fernando, Pampanga, stands to benefit from the expanding industrial base and improving connectivity. In Mindanao, integrated features within Andaluz in Zamboanga City reinforced Vista Land's viability in the southern region.

Multigenerational house-and-lot communities

Crown Asia and Camella remained core contributors for Vista Land, responding to homebuyer and investor demand for landed housing across suburban and provincial markets.

Marking its 30th anniversary, Crown Asia reinforced its presence across strategic locations from Luzon to Mindanao, including Chateau Nissa in Malolos, Pontello in Villar City; Siena, Trieste, and Vietri in Bacoor City; Fiore in Dasmariñas City, Lambertine in Tagaytay, and Verdalia in Santo Tomas, Batangas. Harland Place in Iloilo and Altaria in General Santos City underscore continued appetite beyond Luzon and their positioning in upscale markets nationwide.

Camella rolled out residential developments nationwide, targeting locations with advancing infrastructure, growing populations, and strong investment fundamentals. In North Luzon, Camella introduced Belfelice in Vigan, Camella Solano in Nueva Vizcaya, and Arezzo and Sonvielle in Urdaneta. In Central Luzon, Lucelia and Soleado in Tarlac, and Amandea in Capas, while Granvida in Baliwag, and Belterre and Solenea in Santa Maria, aligned with urban spillover from Metro Manila.

In CALABARZON, Camella launched Tudor Square and Altamira in Tanza and Silang, and Azurri and Galini in San Juan and San Pascual, Batangas, while Monteia in Tayabas extended its reach in South Luzon. Camella gained momentum with Orilla in Dumaguete City, Montevia in Cebu City, Cebu, Aurentia in Butuan, and Courtyard in Pagadian City.

Mixed-use condominiums

Vista Land strengthened its strategy by developing high-rise properties that respond to evolving lifestyles. It introduced Kinsan Heights in Metro Manila, near educational institutions and transportation networks. In contrast, Novus Prime Residences was positioned as a next-generation address for upwardly mobile professionals and investors who value exquisite living.

Market engagement

Initiatives that strengthened market visibility were also delivered. The Sandiwa Sales Conference aligned performance benchmarks and strategic priorities, while Lifescapes Expo 2025 consolidated Vista Land offerings into a single showcase for domestic and international homebuyers. Home for the Holidays emphasized transaction flexibility for Overseas Filipinos. These were complemented by Switching Off for a Sustainable Future, a campaign underscoring environmental stewardship; extended residential formats under ShoppeScapes; commercial land and leasing offerings through Vista Land Commercial Assets; and the continued rollout of VLink, Vista Land’s recruitment and accreditation platform.

Awards and recognitions

Vista Land received recognitions from the 15th Asian Excellence Awards, The Business Pinnacle Awards 2025, International Business Magazine Awards 2025, and World Business Outlook Annual Awards 2025, affirming its standing as a leading real estate organization in the region.

Honors from the Global 100 2026 ranking, the Global Good Governance Awards 2025, the Golden Arrow Awards 2025, the Manila Times Sustainability Awards, and The European Global Business Sustainable and ESG Awards 2025 validated its governance and sustainability credentials.

Vista Estates earned recognition from PropertyGuru Philippines as a Highly Commended Township Development for Georgia, and from the DOT Property Philippines Awards as Best Township Development for Verida. The DOT Property Southeast Asia Awards hailed Camella as Best Mid-Range Housing Developer, with Vista Residences receiving distinction as Best New Launch Condominium Development for Crosswalk Tower.

Vista Land remains positioned for steady growth, supported by a nationwide footprint, diversified residential developments, and a disciplined approach to expansion. With housing demand continuing to evolve alongside regional economic growth, the company is poised to translate market momentum into stable value across its master planned developments, multigenerational house-and-lot communities, and mixed-use condominium properties.

To know more about Vista Land, visit www.vistaland.com.ph and follow @VistaLandAndLifescapesOfficial.

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TP LaunchPad Empowers 19,000+ Filipino Students in 2025

TP LaunchPad Empowers 19,000+ Filipino Students in 2025

Thursday, January 8, 2026

For many Filipino students, the biggest question after graduation is not just where to work, but how to become truly job-ready. In 2025, TP in the Philippines formerly Teleperformance made that transition clearer and more achievable through TP LaunchPad, its flagship university relations and student empowerment program.

What started as a bridge between classrooms and careers has now grown into a nationwide movement. This year alone, TP LaunchPad reached more than 19,000 students, partnered with over 40 academic institutions, and strengthened its role in preparing young Filipinos for real-world careers in the IT-BPM industry.

What Is TP LaunchPad

TP LaunchPad is TP in the Philippines’ long-running initiative focused on helping students move confidently from school to the workforce. The program connects academe, industry leaders, and students through hands-on learning experiences that go beyond textbooks.

In a country where the IT-BPM sector remains a major economic driver and employer, initiatives like TP LaunchPad play a crucial role. They help close the gap between what students learn in school and what employers actually need, making graduates more competitive and work-ready from day one.

Reaching Students Nationwide, Not Just in Major Cities

One of the biggest highlights of TP LaunchPad’s 2025 milestone year is its scale.

The program rolled out over 60 on-ground and campus-based events across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. These included career talks, interview workshops, mock interviews, job fairs, and skills training sessions designed to prepare students for professional environments.

TP also opened its doors through 22 immersive site tours, giving students a first-hand look at world-class IT-BPM operations. For many participants, it was their first time seeing how global companies operate locally and how their future roles might look in practice.

Through these activities, TP LaunchPad generated thousands of career leads and helped students better understand where their skills fit in the industry.

Preparing Students for Life After Graduation

TP LaunchPad is not just about recruitment. It focuses on readiness.

Students who joined the program gained exposure to:

• Interview preparation and confidence-building workshops
• Realistic mock interviews with industry professionals
• Career mentoring and coaching sessions
• Campus and workplace immersion experiences

These touchpoints help demystify the hiring process, especially for first-time jobseekers who may feel overwhelmed or unsure about entering the workforce.

As TP in the Philippines Chief People Officer Jeffrey Johnson shared, the program allows the company to share talent development resources and career opportunities with the youth while helping build a sustainable talent pipeline for the local IT-BPM sector.

Stronger Academe Partnerships, Stronger Outcomes

A major driver of TP LaunchPad’s success this year is its growing network of academic partnerships.

In 2025, TP strengthened its collaboration with colleges and universities by aligning learning programs more closely with industry needs. A key milestone was its new partnership with Mapua Malayan Colleges Laguna (MMCL) and Mapua Malayan Digital College (MMDC).

Together, they are designing learning programs that embed IT-BPM skills into academic curricula. The goal is simple but powerful: help graduates become near-hire ready, not just degree holders.

This means students graduate with practical knowledge, industry exposure, and a clearer understanding of career paths in the IT-BPM sector.

Investing in Lifelong Learning for Employees Too

TP LaunchPad’s impact is not limited to students.

As part of the partnership with MMDC, five deserving TP employees received full scholarship grants under the MMDC Continuing Education Scholarship. This allows working professionals to complete their college degrees while continuing to grow their careers.

This initiative highlights an important shift in today’s workforce. Learning does not stop at graduation. Upskilling and continuing education are now essential, especially in fast-evolving industries like IT-BPM.

Inclusion and Access at the Core of the Program

Beyond numbers and partnerships, TP LaunchPad made meaningful strides in inclusivity this year.

TP in the Philippines expanded its impact sourcing efforts by welcoming participants who are deaf or hard of hearing into the program. This reflects the company’s broader commitment to opening doors for people with disabilities and ensuring that opportunities are accessible to more Filipinos.

The company also strengthened its partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) through the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) program. This collaboration helps make skills training and IT-BPM readiness more accessible, especially for individuals from underserved communities.

These efforts support national workforce development goals while creating pathways to meaningful employment.

Why Programs Like TP LaunchPad Are Timely

The Philippine workforce is young, digital, and ambitious. However, many students still face challenges such as limited exposure to real workplaces, lack of career guidance, and skills mismatch.

Programs like TP LaunchPad respond directly to these challenges by:

• Connecting students with industry realities early
• Aligning education with employer needs
• Promoting inclusive access to career opportunities

As industries continue to evolve, collaboration between private companies, schools, and government agencies becomes even more critical.

Looking Ahead: Building the Future Filipino Workforce

With its growing reach and strong industry-academe partnerships, TP LaunchPad is poised to unlock even more collaborations in the coming years. TP in the Philippines remains focused on empowering Filipino youth, supporting communities, and strengthening the country’s IT-BPM talent ecosystem.

As Jeffrey Johnson emphasized, investing in the Filipino workforce is a long-term commitment. Through strategic partnerships and inclusive programs, TP aims to create lasting, positive impact across communities nationwide.

Practical Takeaways for Students and Educators

For students:

• Seek out industry immersion programs early
• Take advantage of mock interviews and mentoring opportunities
• Build both technical and soft skills before graduation

For schools:

• Partner with industry leaders to align curricula with real-world needs
• Encourage experiential learning alongside academic instruction

For parents and communities:

• Support programs that promote skills development and employability

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Filipino Microentrepreneurs Win at 4th DFIA

Filipino Microentrepreneurs Win at 4th DFIA

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

Filipino Microentrepreneurs Shine at the 4th Digital Financial Inclusion Awards

Digital tools are no longer just nice-to-haves for small businesses, they are becoming powerful equalizers. This was clearly demonstrated at the 4th Digital Financial Inclusion Awards (DFIA), where Filipino microentrepreneurs and microfinance institutions were celebrated for using technology to grow their livelihoods and uplift their communities.

Held to recognize how innovation fuels inclusive and sustainable economic growth, the DFIA highlighted inspiring stories of Filipinos who embraced digital solutions proving that financial inclusion can open real opportunities for those often left behind.

Celebrating Digital Progress in Microentrepreneurship

The DFIA is jointly organized by the Microfinance Council of the Philippines, Inc. (MCPI) and the Citi Foundation, with support from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). Now in its fourth year, the awards continue to champion digital transformation as a key driver of inclusive development in the country’s microfinance sector.

This year’s awarding ceremony brought together leaders from across the financial ecosystem, including BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr., Citi Philippines CEO Paul Favila, and MCPI Chairperson Eduardo C. Jimenez. Their shared message was clear: innovation when made accessible can strengthen businesses, communities, and the broader economy.

Empowering Microentrepreneurs Through Technology

At the heart of the celebration were 17 outstanding Filipino microentrepreneurs, each of whom received ₱100,000 in cash grants along with brand-new laptops to help accelerate their digital journeys.

The awardees came from diverse industries that form the backbone of local economies, including agriculture, food production, retail, and handicrafts. Among those recognized were Josephia Azores, Roby Grace Bernabe, Mylene Bersabal, Carmelita Dapanas, RJ De Chavez, Ailyn Flormata, Raquel Lanaban, Gladys Maipid, Edna Maloon, Annalisa Monil, Lorlie Noblezada, Rosalie Orijola, Cecilia Oroc, Maricar Pagao, Danise Palmero, Niel Danica Polong, and Alan Romero.

What connects their stories is not just business success, but adaptability. By adopting tools such as online selling platforms, digital payment systems, and basic business management software, these entrepreneurs were able to expand their reach, improve efficiency, and serve customers better often for the first time beyond their immediate communities.

Recognizing Institutions Driving Digital Inclusion

Beyond individual entrepreneurs, the DFIA also honored three institutions for their leadership in advancing digitalization within the microfinance space. The institutional awardees were:

• GRF Hublag Microfinance Foundation, Inc.
• MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center
• Taytay Sa Kauswagan, Inc.

These organizations play a critical role in making digital tools accessible to microentrepreneurs by integrating technology into lending, training, and support systems. Their efforts help ensure that digital transformation reaches even the most underserved sectors.

Changing the Narrative Around Digital Tools

During the event, BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. emphasized that technology is no longer out of reach for small entrepreneurs.

He noted that the long-standing belief that digital tools are too complex or inaccessible no longer holds true. With practical innovations like QR payments, online marketplaces, and simple business systems, microentrepreneurs are redefining what’s possible for their businesses and communities.

Citi Philippines CEO Paul Favila echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the DFIA aligns with the Citi Foundation’s mission to promote economic progress in low-income communities. He stressed that the awards celebrate not only business achievements, but also the lives and livelihoods that entrepreneurs continue to uplift through their work.

Building on a Strong Legacy

The DFIA builds on the legacy of the Citi Microentrepreneurship Awards, expanding its focus to spotlight how digital innovation and microfinance work hand in hand to advance financial inclusion. Through this platform, MCPI and the Citi Foundation continue to raise awareness about the importance of empowering microentrepreneurs with both capital and technology.

As the program enters its fourth year, it reinforces an important truth: when Filipino entrepreneurs are given the right tools, they don’t just grow their businesses, they help create more resilient, inclusive, and economically vibrant communities.

In a rapidly digitizing world, the stories celebrated at the 4th DFIA serve as a reminder that progress becomes truly meaningful when it reaches everyone.

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