VinFast’s Electric Scooter Global Expansion Strategy Signals a New Phase in Southeast Asia’s EV Race

VinFast’s Electric Scooter Global Expansion Strategy Signals a New Phase in Southeast Asia’s EV Race

Wednesday, February 11, 2026

VinFast’s electric scooter global expansion strategy marks more than a geographic push into Southeast Asia and India, it reflects a calculated bet on urban mobility, infrastructure integration, and first-mover advantage in fast-electrifying two-wheeler markets.

By identifying the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Thailand, and Malaysia as its initial five international targets, the Vietnamese EV manufacturer is positioning itself at the intersection of demographic growth, rising fuel costs, and intensifying regulatory pressure to decarbonize transport. For business leaders and investors, this expansion offers a case study in how emerging-market EV players are building scalable, ecosystem-driven growth models beyond their domestic strongholds.

Industry Context: Why Southeast Asia and India Matter Now

The global EV conversation often centers on passenger cars in the U.S., Europe, and China. Yet in many Asian economies, the real electrification opportunity lies in two-wheelers. Motorcycles and scooters dominate urban mobility in cities such as Manila, Jakarta, Bangkok, and Mumbai, where congestion, density, and income levels make compact transport essential.

The Southeast Asia EV market is at an inflection point. Governments across the region are introducing incentives, import duty adjustments, and local manufacturing policies to encourage electrification. Simultaneously, consumers are becoming more price-sensitive as fuel volatility and inflation reshape household budgets.

Electric scooters, particularly those supported by battery-swapping infrastructure, address two major adoption barriers: range anxiety and upfront cost. By decoupling battery ownership from vehicle ownership, manufacturers can reduce sticker prices and enable faster refueling compared to traditional charging.

VinFast’s domestic performance in Vietnam strengthens its credibility. Delivering more than 406,000 e-scooters in 2025 and capturing leading market share demonstrates not only product-market fit but also operational scalability. The company’s portfolio of over 10 models across mainstream, premium, and sport segments reflects a segmentation strategy typically seen in more mature automotive markets.

This is not opportunistic expansion, it is structured replication of a tested domestic model.

Electric Scooter Global Expansion Strategy: Ecosystem Over Product

At the heart of VinFast’s electric scooter global expansion strategy is ecosystem control rather than product proliferation alone.

The company plans to roll out battery-swapping models such as the Flazz, Evo, Feliz II, and Viper, adapted to local mobility patterns. But the strategic differentiator lies in its integrated approach:

• Dealer network partnerships across Luzon and Mindanao
• Service workshop integration
• Financial solutions
• Collaboration with V-Green for charging and battery-swapping infrastructure
• Alignment with GSM, an all-electric taxi operator

This ecosystem-first model reduces fragmentation, a common failure point in emerging EV markets. Many EV startups focus on vehicle sales without securing after-sales service, financing accessibility, or charging reliability. VinFast’s approach suggests it understands that infrastructure confidence drives adoption more than brand recognition in early-stage markets.

The Philippines, designated as the first strategic overseas market, serves as a testing ground. By partnering with established dealership groups such as Maverick Racing Factory, MotorCentral, and Supremebike Corporation, VinFast is leveraging existing distribution trust and retail footprint rather than building from scratch.

For executives evaluating market entry strategy, this highlights a key principle: scale in emerging markets depends on partnership density, not just capital intensity.

Strategic Implications for Business Leaders

1. The Rise of the Integrated Green Mobility Ecosystem

VinFast is not selling scooters — it is constructing a green mobility ecosystem. This mirrors broader global trends where mobility companies vertically integrate hardware, software, energy, and financing.

Executives across manufacturing and clean tech sectors should note that control over infrastructure and service layers creates recurring revenue potential, data insights, and stronger customer retention.

2. Competitive Pressure on Japanese and Chinese Manufacturers

Traditional two-wheeler giants in Southeast Asia,  particularly Japanese brands,  have dominated for decades. Chinese EV manufacturers are also aggressively expanding. VinFast’s regional strategy introduces a third competitive archetype: a Southeast Asian brand with global ambitions and strong domestic proof of concept.

This could intensify pricing pressure and accelerate innovation in battery technology, connectivity features, and financing models.

3. Infrastructure as Strategic Leverage

Battery swapping remains a contested model globally. However, in dense urban environments with limited home charging capacity, it may outperform conventional plug-in solutions.

For energy companies and infrastructure investors, partnerships like the one between VinFast and V-Green underscore how EV adoption increasingly depends on cross-sector collaboration between mobility, utilities, and fintech players.

4. Manufacturing Scale and Cost Discipline

VinFast emphasizes large-scale manufacturing capabilities and competitive pricing. In price-sensitive markets such as India and Indonesia, cost efficiency is decisive. The company’s ability to maintain margins while scaling internationally will be a key test of operational maturity.

For business decision-makers, the broader lesson is clear: regional expansion in emerging markets demands tight supply chain control and pricing flexibility.

Market Outlook: What Happens Next?

The next 24 months will determine whether VinFast’s electric scooter global expansion strategy becomes a regional blueprint or a cautionary tale.

Key factors to watch:

Regulatory Stability: Incentive frameworks in India and Southeast Asia are evolving. Policy continuity will directly influence demand curves.

Infrastructure Rollout Speed: Battery-swapping networks must scale in parallel with vehicle sales. Infrastructure lag could stall adoption.

Consumer Financing Penetration: Access to installment plans and leasing options will accelerate conversion among middle-income buyers.

Brand Trust and After-Sales Service: Emerging EV brands often struggle with long-term reliability perception. Dealer quality and service responsiveness will shape reputation.

Additionally, VinFast’s broader EV lineup from compact models like the VF 3 to larger vehicles like the VF 9 suggests cross-selling opportunities and brand halo effects. If executed effectively, scooters could function as entry points into a broader EV portfolio.

A Calculated Bet on Electrified Urban Growth

VinFast’s electric scooter global expansion strategy represents a deliberate move into markets where electrification economics make immediate sense. By combining dealer partnerships, battery-swapping infrastructure, and multi-segment product design, the company is attempting to institutionalize its domestic success across high-growth Asian economies.

For entrepreneurs and executives, the strategic takeaway is not limited to mobility. VinFast illustrates how emerging-market companies can scale internationally by exporting integrated ecosystems rather than standalone products.

If Southeast Asia’s urban centers continue their shift toward sustainable transport, early ecosystem builders, not late vehicle entrants, are likely to capture disproportionate value.

The race is no longer just about electrification. It is about infrastructure ownership, distribution control, and ecosystem depth.

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Schneider Electric’s Cavite Smart Factory Sets a New Standard for Renewable Manufacturing in Luzon

Schneider Electric’s Cavite Smart Factory Sets a New Standard for Renewable Manufacturing in Luzon

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Sustainability milestones are becoming more meaningful when they translate into real, on-the-ground change. For Schneider Electric Philippines, that change is now fully powered by clean energy. The company recently announced that its Cavite Smart Factory in Rosario is officially operating on 100 percent renewable energy, making it the first manufacturing site in a Luzon government-run economic zone to do so and the first Schneider Electric factory in East Asia to run entirely on renewables.

This achievement is not just a corporate win. It is a signal of what is possible for Philippine manufacturing when innovation, policy, and partnerships work together.

A Major Sustainability Milestone for Philippine Industry

The transition to renewable energy was completed on December 26, 2025, marking a symbolic close to Schneider Electric’s 30th year in the Philippines. The milestone was formally celebrated during the company’s 190th global foundation anniversary on January 14, 2026, underscoring the long-term commitment behind the move.

Located within the Cavite Economic Zone, the Smart Factory now stands as a model for how industrial facilities can balance productivity with environmental responsibility. As part of a government economic zone, the shift also sets a precedent for other ecozone-based manufacturers in Luzon and beyond.

Powered by Collaboration Across Sectors

Achieving 100 percent renewable energy did not happen in isolation. The transition was made possible through close collaboration with key public and private partners, including the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), Cavite Economic Zone (CEZ), Meralco Ecozone Power (MEP), Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP), and ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions (ACEN RES).

Together, these organizations supported Schneider Electric’s participation in the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP). The program allows eligible electricity consumers to choose renewable energy providers, creating new opportunities for companies to decarbonize their operations.

The involvement of multiple stakeholders highlights an important reality. The country’s energy transition depends on cooperation between industry, regulators, and power providers.

“We commend Schneider Electric for collaborating with partners and embracing innovations that align with our shared vision of a more sustainable and inclusive energy future,” said Arjon Valencia, Corporate Planning and Communications Manager of IEMOP, which serves as the central registration body for GEOP.

Sustainability and Competitiveness Can Coexist

For Schneider Electric, the move to clean energy is not just about environmental targets. It is also about proving that sustainability can strengthen industrial competitiveness.

“By moving our Cavite Smart Factory to 100 percent renewable energy, we are demonstrating that sustainability and industrial competitiveness can go hand in hand,” shared Antonio Cheng Jr., Cavite Cluster Plant Director of Schneider Electric Philippines. “This facility shows what can be achieved when innovation and collaboration come together, and we hope it serves as a model for more Philippine manufacturers to follow.”

With over 1,300 employees, the Cavite Smart Factory plays a crucial role in Schneider Electric’s East Asia supply chain. Established in 1996 and integrated into the Schneider Electric group in 2007 following the acquisition of American Power Conversion (APC), the site produces secure power and industrial automation solutions for markets across North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

Part of a Bigger Global Commitment

The Cavite transition aligns with Schneider Electric’s broader global sustainability goals, particularly its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions across its operations and value chain.

Since 2018, the company has helped customers save and avoid 729 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions. It has also reduced emissions across its top 1,000 suppliers by 53 percent since 2020, expanded access to green electricity to more than 60 million people since 2009, and trained over one million individuals in energy management.

These efforts have earned Schneider Electric repeated global recognition, including acknowledgments from TIME Magazine and Statista, as well as being named World’s Most Sustainable Company by Corporate Knights in 2025.

A Smart Factory Leading by Example

Now fully powered by renewable energy, the Cavite Smart Factory stands as a tangible example of how sustainability commitments can move beyond pledges and into action.

“We will continue to provide solutions that help industries reduce carbon emissions while maintaining efficiency and resilience in the way we operate,” added Antonio Cheng Jr.

As the Philippines continues to navigate its clean energy transition, Schneider Electric’s Cavite Smart Factory shows what leadership looks like in practice. It is proof that innovation, when paired with strong partnerships, can transform sustainability goals into measurable impact for people, industry, and the environment.

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EastWest Ageas Wins Big at the 61st ANVIL Awards with Four Major Trophies

EastWest Ageas Wins Big at the 61st ANVIL Awards with Four Major Trophies

Starting the year on a high note, EastWest Ageas has proven that purpose-driven storytelling and innovation can stand out even in a highly competitive industry. The fast-growing insurance company took home four prestigious awards at the 61st ANVIL Awards, earning two Gold and two Silver trophies during the ceremony held on January 28, 2026.

Recognized as the gold standard of public relations excellence in the Philippines, the ANVIL Awards are organized by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP). This year’s competition was especially tough, with over 600 campaign entries from nearly 200 organizations across the country. Against this backdrop, EastWest Ageas’ multi-category wins mark a defining milestone for the brand.

A Strong Showing at the Country’s Premier PR Awards

EastWest Ageas stood out for its cohesive brand narrative and future-ready initiatives. Its flagship brand campaign, “For Your PURPLE,” emerged as one of the night’s biggest winners, earning Gold in Marketing and Brand Communication and Silver in Corporate Identity and Branding.

Beyond trophies, the campaign delivered measurable impact. According to NielsenIQ data, “For Your PURPLE” boosted EastWest Ageas’ brand awareness score from 12 percent to 22 percent, making it the fastest brand health growth in the local insurance industry. For a sector often perceived as traditional and conservative, this leap reflects how resonant messaging and clear purpose can drive real results.

Innovation at the Core with PURPLE AI Toolkit

Another major highlight of the evening was Gold recognition in the Employee Engagement Category for the “PURPLE AI Toolkit.” This initiative is EastWest Ageas’ AI-powered platform designed to support employees and sales teams through smarter, more efficient processes.

The toolkit showcases the company’s commitment to machine learning and digital innovation, using technology to optimize insurance services and empower its people on the ground. In an industry where trust and speed matter, investing in employee tools ultimately translates into better customer experiences.

This win reinforces that EastWest Ageas’ innovation efforts go beyond customer-facing campaigns. They also focus on building a workplace that equips teams with the tools they need to succeed.

Inspiring Careers Through Purpose-Driven Recruitment

Completing the awards sweep, EastWest Ageas’ agency recruitment initiative “Pursuit of PURPLE” received Silver in the Change Communication Category. The campaign invited aspiring financial consultants to join the organization, positioning insurance as a career path rooted in purpose, impact, and personal growth.

By reframing recruitment as a meaningful journey rather than just a job opportunity, the campaign resonated with professionals seeking work that aligns with their values.

A Brand Story That Dares to Be Different

For EastWest Ageas, the recognition is not just about winning awards. It is about validating a brand story built on people, purpose, and the courage to stand out.

“Our PURPLE story, the story of purpose and people, has made its mark in an industry full of established players,” shared Greg Martin, Chief Distribution and Marketing Officer. “We have always chosen the courage to be quirky and to challenge the norm. We know that our story is compelling, convincing, and clear, and we back it up with future-ready efforts that truly help our employees and sales team. We are grateful for the recognition of our work.”

The consistent use of “PURPLE” across branding, technology, and recruitment reflects a clear identity that connects internally and externally.

A Commitment Beyond Awards

The wins at the 61st ANVIL Awards also mark EastWest Ageas’ third consecutive year of recognition at the prestigious event. For the company’s leadership, this milestone comes with both pride and responsibility.

Sjoerd Smeets, President and CEO of EastWest Ageas, reflected on the achievement, saying, “This is our third consecutive year to be part of the ANVIL Awards, and we thank the people who made these wins possible. To be recognized among the greats in our industry is a high honor in itself, but this reminds us that we must match that honor with the responsibility to give our customers service that goes beyond being award-winning. We promise to deliver service that is impactful in helping them pursue the purpose they have set for the people in their lives.”

This perspective underscores the brand’s long-term vision. Awards are a milestone, not the finish line.

Looking Ahead in 2026

With four ANVIL trophies to start the year, EastWest Ageas is set to continue expanding its reach and strengthening connections with more Filipinos throughout 2026. The company remains focused on empowering both customers and employees through purposeful communication, innovation, and service excellence.

For those following developments in branding, insurance, and corporate storytelling, EastWest Ageas’ ANVIL Awards sweep is a reminder that authenticity and innovation can still break through in even the most established industries.

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Wadhwani Foundation Expands Skilling and Entrepreneurship Support in the Philippines

Wadhwani Foundation Expands Skilling and Entrepreneurship Support in the Philippines

In today’s rapidly changing job market, one thing is clear. Skills only matter when they lead to real opportunities. That is the idea guiding Wadhwani Foundation’s latest move in the Philippines, as the global non-profit strengthens its employability skilling efforts through a localized pilot in Mega Manila, while continuing to support entrepreneurship nationwide at zero cost.

Announced on January 30, 2026, the initiative reflects a practical, people-first approach to workforce development. Instead of a one-size-fits-all model, the Foundation is testing how closer coordination between training providers and employers can help Filipinos move more smoothly from learning to earning.

A Local Skilling Pilot Focused on Real Jobs

Mega Manila, which includes Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, and Rizal, is the country’s largest economic hub. It is also where job demand and skills gaps are most visible. This is why Wadhwani Foundation chose the region as the testing ground for its ecosystem-led skilling pilot.

The goal is simple but powerful. Skills training should lead to employment, not just certificates. By working closely with local employers, training institutions, and ecosystem partners, the Foundation aims to ensure that people are trained for roles that are actually in demand and placed into jobs within their communities.

This approach strengthens job-to-training linkages, improves coordination across stakeholders, and allows for more measurable employment outcomes. For learners, it means clearer pathways to work. For employers, it means access to talent that is ready for real-world roles.

Traditional skilling programs often struggle with one key issue. Training and hiring do not always speak the same language. The Mega Manila pilot addresses this by anchoring skills development in local hiring needs from the very start.

By aligning curriculum, industry requirements, and placement efforts, the Foundation hopes to learn what works best on the ground. These insights will later guide decisions on whether and how similar models can be applied in other parts of the country.

This pilot is not about scaling fast. It is about scaling smart.

Entrepreneurship Programs Continue Nationwide

While employability skilling becomes more localized, entrepreneurship support remains nationwide. The Foundation confirmed that its Ignite program will continue unchanged across the Philippines.

Ignite supports students and aspiring entrepreneurs who want to explore entrepreneurship as a career path. Through hands-on exposure and practical learning, participants develop early-stage entrepreneurial skills that can help them start ventures or bring innovation into the workplace.

For young Filipinos who see entrepreneurship as a way to create their own opportunities, Ignite remains a valuable entry point.

No Disruption to Existing Partnerships

One concern that often comes with pilot programs is whether they replace existing efforts. Wadhwani Foundation is clear on this point. All current programs and partnerships in the Philippines remain fully active.

The Mega Manila skilling pilot complements the Foundation’s national, platform-led programs rather than replacing them. Partners and beneficiaries across the country will continue to receive support without disruption.

This balance between innovation and continuity allows the Foundation to experiment locally while maintaining its broader mission nationwide.

A Clear Commitment to Zero-Cost Programs

A defining feature of Wadhwani Foundation’s work is accessibility. All entrepreneurship and skilling programs in the Philippines continue to be offered at zero cost to partners and beneficiaries.

Commenting on the strategy, Ajay Kela, CEO and Board Member of Wadhwani Foundation, shared:

“Our mission is to enable job creation and improve livelihoods at scale. In the Philippines, we are piloting a more locally anchored skilling approach in Mega Manila to strengthen job outcomes, while continuing to support student entrepreneurship nationwide through Ignite. This allows us to learn quickly, strengthen partnerships, and ensure that programs translate into real opportunities for people, while remaining fully committed to zero-cost delivery.”

The message is consistent. Access should never be a barrier to opportunity.

Looking Ahead for Skills and Jobs in PH

By combining national platforms with targeted local pilots, Wadhwani Foundation is creating a more responsive model for workforce development. One that recognizes regional differences, listens to employers, and focuses on outcomes that truly matter.

For Filipino learners, this means clearer transitions from education to employment. For communities, it means stronger local job pipelines. And for the broader ecosystem, it offers a tested model that can evolve based on real results.

As the Philippines continues to navigate economic shifts and workforce transformation, initiatives like this show how collaboration, clarity, and local insight can turn skills into livelihoods.

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How AI Is Redefining Supply Chain Decision-Making in the Philippines

How AI Is Redefining Supply Chain Decision-Making in the Philippines

Sunday, February 8, 2026

As global trade becomes more unpredictable, supply chains are no longer judged by how well they track shipments, but by how intelligently they respond to change. This was the key takeaway from Manila Horizon 2026, a supply chain leadership forum hosted by GoComet on January 23, 2026, at Sheraton Manila Bay.

The event gathered senior leaders from major Philippine enterprises such as Jollibee, IMI, Century Pacific Foods, and other large organizations. Together, they explored how artificial intelligence is transforming logistics from a visibility-focused function into an intelligence-driven capability that supports resilience, agility, and better decision-making.

Why Visibility Is No Longer Enough

The Philippines plays a unique role in global trade. It is both a consumption-heavy market and a critical import destination, which exposes local supply chains to port congestion, fragmented logistics networks, and disruptions triggered by global events.

During the forum, industry leaders agreed that basic shipment tracking is no longer sufficient. While knowing where goods are is important, it does not help organizations anticipate delays, mitigate risks, or plan alternative actions.

What companies now need are systems that can interpret live data, surface risks early, and recommend what steps to take next, particularly for inbound freight and cross-border operations.

“Visibility tells you where things are. Intelligence tells you what to do next,” said Chitransh Sahai, Co-founder and CEO of GoComet. “AI helps supply chains move from reacting late to planning early, which is where real resilience is built.”

From Automation to Intelligence-Led Supply Chains

A recurring theme at Manila Horizon was the shift toward intelligence-led operations. Rather than overwhelming teams with dashboards and alerts, AI-powered platforms are now designed to filter information, highlight what truly matters, and support faster, more confident decisions.

Sahai emphasized that AI is not meant to replace people. Instead, it strengthens human judgment by taking over repetitive tasks such as monitoring, exception detection, and data consolidation.

By automating these processes, supply chain teams can spend more time on strategic planning, supplier collaboration, and scenario analysis.

“Technology only creates impact when it fits naturally into how teams work,” Sahai added. “The goal isn’t more dashboards. It’s fewer surprises.”

This philosophy resonated with Philippine enterprises that want to modernize without adding layers of complexity or operational burden.

Growing Adoption of AI in Philippine Supply Chains

The discussions at Manila Horizon also reflected the rapid adoption of AI-driven supply chain platforms in the country. GoComet has been operating in the Philippines since August 2021 and has recorded approximately 2.5x year-on-year growth in the local market since its launch.

Today, the Philippines represents nearly 20 percent of GoComet’s total Southeast Asia customer base, highlighting the country’s increasing importance as a center for supply chain innovation in the region.

Participants noted that this growth mirrors a broader mindset shift. Supply chain intelligence is now being viewed as a strategic advantage rather than a back-office tool. For many enterprises, it has become essential to maintaining service levels, managing costs, and scaling operations sustainably.

Introducing the Next Phase of Supply Chain Intelligence

A major highlight of the forum was Sahai’s unveiling of GoComet’s next phase of innovation. This new direction moves beyond automated workflows and toward autonomous logistics operations, powered by agentic AI.

At the center of this vision is the GoComet AI Centre, which brings together multiple intelligent systems designed to continuously observe operations, reason using real-world context, and assist teams across planning, execution, and risk management.

Rather than functioning as standalone tools, these AI agents act like digital assistants embedded directly into daily workflows.

Two key capabilities were showcased during the event:

1. Incident Lens, which links real-time port conditions, weather patterns, and geopolitical developments directly to active shipments, allowing teams to detect disruptions early.
2. Viera, a conversational AI that enables users to ask questions about logistics data in natural language and receive immediate, actionable insights.

Together, these tools transform millions of data points across shipments, documents, and communications into clear, prioritized actions that teams can trust and explain.

Tangible Business Impact for Enterprises

According to GoComet, enterprises using these intelligence-driven capabilities have reported measurable improvements across key performance metrics. These include productivity gains of up to 2x, freight cost reductions of up to 30 percent, and a 17 percent increase in inventory turnover.

The platform also helps organizations improve customer satisfaction and net promoter scores by reducing delays, minimizing surprises, and maintaining service reliability even in volatile conditions.

For leaders at Manila Horizon, these outcomes reinforced the idea that AI is no longer experimental. It is already delivering value at scale for organizations willing to rethink how they use data.

Building a More Resilient Supply Chain Ecosystem

Beyond technology, participants agreed that the future of supply chains in the Philippines will depend on collaboration. The next stage of transformation requires enterprises, logistics providers, and technology platforms to share data and insights across the ecosystem.

By working together, stakeholders can respond faster to disruptions and build collective resilience in the face of global uncertainty.

The conversations at Manila Horizon made one thing clear. AI is no longer a distant promise for Philippine supply chains. It is already shaping how organizations anticipate risk, protect operations, and grow with confidence in an increasingly complex trade environment.

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Torres Enters the Philippine Market With Torres 5 Light Through Tanduay Partnership

Torres Enters the Philippine Market With Torres 5 Light Through Tanduay Partnership

Wednesday, February 4, 2026

The Philippine spirits market is welcoming a new international name with a long-standing legacy. Renowned Spanish brandy house Torres has officially entered the country, marking its debut through a strategic distribution partnership with Tanduay. The collaboration brings Torres’ heritage of Spanish craftsmanship to Filipino consumers, starting with the launch of Torres 5 Light.

This market entry signals a meeting of two established spirits brands that share a focus on quality, tradition, and long-term growth. For local consumers, it also means access to a globally respected brandy portfolio that blends European heritage with flavors designed for modern drinking occasions.

A Strategic Partnership Between Two Established Spirits Brands

Torres’ arrival in the Philippines is anchored on its partnership with Tanduay, one of the country’s most recognized spirits producers and distributors. Through this collaboration, Torres products will be made available nationwide, expanding the brand’s reach in Southeast Asia.

“The arrival of Torres in the Philippines marks the coming of two great houses that are united by a shared commitment to excellence and growth,” said Lucio Tan III, President and CEO of Tanduay. “This partnership reflects our vision to offer Filipino consumers world-class spirits.”

From a business perspective, the partnership allows Torres to tap into Tanduay’s strong distribution network and deep understanding of local market preferences. For Tanduay, the collaboration strengthens its premium portfolio by adding a respected international brand with centuries of heritage.

Introducing Torres 5 Light to Filipino Consumers

Leading Torres’ Philippine lineup is Torres 5 Light, a brandy created to be more approachable while staying true to traditional Spanish brandy-making techniques. According to Christian Visalli, Global Managing Director of Torres Spirits, the company is excited to introduce this expression to the local market.

“We are proud to bring the rich heritage of Spanish brandy to the Philippines,” Visalli shared. “With Tanduay as our distributor, we are confident that Torres products will reach Filipino consumers who appreciate exceptional spirits with authentic Spanish tradition.”

Torres 5 Light is positioned as an accessible entry point for drinkers who are curious about brandy but prefer a lighter, smoother profile. It is designed to fit naturally into casual gatherings while still offering a premium experience.

Crafted With Tradition, Designed for Modern Drinking

Torres 5 Light is produced using quality grapes and aged in oak barrels through the Solera method, a traditional aging process that helps create consistency and depth of flavor. The result is a brandy that balances craftsmanship with approachability.

In the glass, Torres 5 Light shows a clear to medium gold color. On the nose, it offers subtle aromas of grape, dried fruits, and vanilla. The palate is smooth and gently sweet, with notes of prune, grape, and vanilla that make it easy to enjoy even for first-time brandy drinkers.

Bottled at 25 percent alcohol by volume, Torres 5 Light is best enjoyed over ice, making it suitable for relaxed social moments. Its lighter profile aligns well with local drinking preferences while still reflecting the refined character associated with Spanish brandy.

Expanding the Torres Portfolio in the Philippines

While Torres 5 Light headlines the brand’s local debut, it is only the beginning of Torres’ presence in the Philippine market. The product will be distributed nationwide, alongside other premium Torres offerings that cater to a wide range of consumers.

From younger drinkers exploring new spirits to seasoned enthusiasts looking for refined selections, the Torres lineup aims to serve diverse tastes and occasions. Additional Torres products are expected to become available within the first quarter of the year, further strengthening the brand’s footprint in the country.

Internal linking opportunity: This article can link to related stories on premium spirits trends in the Philippines, global brands entering the local market, or Tanduay’s recent business expansions.

A Legacy Rooted in Spanish Winemaking History

Torres’ story is deeply tied to Spanish viticulture. The Torres family has been growing grapes in the Penedès region of Spain since the 16th century. In 1870, Jaime Torres Vendrell formally established Casa Torres, initially focusing on wine production.

The family’s journey into brandy began in 1928 when Juan Torres Casals started aging brandy in oak barrels using white wines sourced from Penedès. This approach helped define the signature style that Torres is known for today, combining tradition, patience, and attention to detail.

Over the decades, Torres has grown into a globally recognized name in spirits, respected for its commitment to quality and innovation while staying rooted in heritage.

Bringing Spanish Brandy to Local Shelves

Torres 5 Light will be available at leading supermarkets and grocery stores across the Philippines, making it accessible to both casual shoppers and spirits enthusiasts. With Tanduay managing local distribution, Filipino consumers can expect consistent availability and wider market reach.

As international brands continue to enter the Philippine spirits scene, Torres’ debut highlights the growing demand for premium yet approachable offerings. By blending centuries-old Spanish craftsmanship with flavors that resonate locally, Torres positions itself as a strong new contender in the country’s evolving spirits market.

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Hanabishi Supports Karinderya Livelihoods Through Project

Hanabishi Supports Karinderya Livelihoods Through Project

For many Filipino families, the neighborhood karinderya is more than a place to eat. It is a livelihood, a community hub, and often a family’s main source of income. Recognizing this, Hanabishi Appliances continues to invest in sustainable, grassroots entrepreneurship through its Kapartner sa Kabuhayan advocacy.

In partnership with K-COOP, Hanabishi once again supported Project Karinderya during the final quarter of 2025. The initiative aims to uplift small, community-based eateries while helping address food security in underserved areas. This renewed collaboration builds on earlier efforts made in the middle of the year and expands its reach to more families and communities.

Supporting Nanaypreneurs and Community Food Security

Hanabishi’s involvement in Project Karinderya reflects the brand’s long-standing commitment to Filipino households. Rather than focusing solely on product sales, the company positions itself as a partner in everyday living, particularly for small entrepreneurs who need practical support to grow their businesses.

“More than an appliance brand, Hanabishi is a trusted partner of Filipino families,” shared Cherish Ong-Chua, Vice President for Finance and Marketing of Hanabishi Appliances. “We are one with organizations like K-COOP in looking for ways to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to them, especially to the nanaypreneurs who need assistance in growing their karinderya business.”

The term nanaypreneur has become increasingly relevant in livelihood discussions, referring to mothers who manage small businesses while supporting their families. For many of them, access to reliable kitchen equipment can significantly impact daily operations, food quality, and income stability.

Expanding Impact in Rizal and Bulacan

Hanabishi first partnered with K-COOP earlier in 2025, initially distributing Karinderya Starter Kits to selected beneficiaries in August. By the last quarter of the year, the program scaled up its efforts.

A total of 30 karinderya owners in Rizal and Bulacan received new starter kits, allowing them to improve their operations and serve their communities more efficiently. Beyond supporting business owners, the program also helped feed 600 individuals for 30 days through meal subsidies.

Under Project Karinderya, community members received a ₱60 daily meal subsidy for one month. These subsidies were redeemable at participating karinderyas, ensuring that the support circulated within the local economy while providing food access to those who need it most.

What’s Inside the Hanabishi Karinderya Starter Kit

Each Karinderya Starter Kit was carefully curated to meet the daily needs of small food businesses. Instead of offering generic assistance, Hanabishi provided appliances that directly improve efficiency, food preparation, and customer service.

The kits included a Hanabishi electric fan, either model HISF180C or HISF180, to improve comfort in often warm cooking spaces. Cooking essentials such as a gas stove or an oven toaster were included, along with a rice cooker or pressure cooker to support daily meal preparation.

Additional equipment included a water dispenser with free water or a hand mixer and blender for food preparation. Depending on the kit, beneficiaries also received either a coffee maker or an airpot, allowing karinderya owners to expand their menu offerings and increase potential income.

These appliances help reduce operational strain while enabling small eateries to serve food more consistently and safely.

A Holistic Approach to Livelihood Support

Project Karinderya goes beyond providing equipment. One of its core strengths lies in its holistic design, which combines livelihood assistance with community nutrition and education.

Beneficiaries include vulnerable sectors such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant and lactating mothers, and low-income families. By directing meal subsidies to these groups, the program addresses immediate food needs while supporting local businesses.

Participating karinderya owners also undergo training and capability-building sessions. These cover essential topics such as food safety, proper nutrition, and customer service. Health cadets and monitoring teams are deployed to ensure that food quality standards are met and that program guidelines are followed.

This structure ensures that the initiative delivers long-term value rather than short-term relief.

Building Dignity Through Sustainable Livelihoods

At the heart of Hanabishi’s Kapartner sa Kabuhayan advocacy is a belief that sustainable progress begins with dignity. By equipping small entrepreneurs with tools, training, and consistent demand, the program enables families to build resilience and plan for the future.

“At Hanabishi, we believe that sustainable progress is rooted in dignity,” Ong-Chua emphasized. “Through our Kapartner sa Kabuhayan advocacy, we express our commitment to supporting livelihood programs that enable people to thrive and build resilience so that they can shape their future with pride.”

For business leaders and CSR practitioners, Hanabishi’s continued support for Project Karinderya offers a strong example of how private sector partnerships can empower communities. When livelihood programs are thoughtfully designed, they can strengthen local economies, improve food security, and create lasting social impact.

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