SOCIAL MEDIA

Jollibee’s First LEED-Certified Store in the Philippines Marks a Major Sustainability Milestone

Monday, April 27, 2026


Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword. It is becoming a core part of how brands operate, even in the fast food industry. In a meaningful step forward, Jollibee is proving that convenience and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

The beloved Filipino brand has reached a new milestone with the opening of the country’s first quick service restaurant to earn a globally recognized green building certification, setting a new standard for sustainable dining in the Philippines.

A First for Philippine Quick Service Restaurants

Located in Enrile, Tuguegarao City, this pioneering branch of Jollibee has been awarded the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Operations and Maintenance certification by the U.S. Green Building Council.

Known as LEED O+M, the certification evaluates how buildings perform in real-world operations. This includes energy efficiency, water usage, waste management, and indoor environmental quality. It goes beyond design and focuses on how sustainability is practiced daily.

This achievement positions Jollibee among early adopters of operations-driven sustainability in the local fast food space.

What Makes This Store Sustainable


Opened in November 2024, the Enrile branch was intentionally designed with eco-friendly features that support long-term efficiency.

Key highlights include:
  • Rooftop solar panels that can cut electricity use by up to 30 percent
  • Solar water heating systems for kitchen operations
  • Solar window films that reduce indoor heat and lessen air conditioning demand
  • High-efficiency motors and LED lighting

Water conservation is also a major focus. The store uses motion-sensor faucets, a rainwater harvesting system, and an on-site wastewater treatment facility that allows water reuse for cleaning and maintenance.

Sustainability Built Into Daily Operations

According to Jollibee Philippines President Ferns Yu Jr., sustainability is not treated as a one-time initiative but as a long-term commitment embedded in the brand’s operations.

He shared that sustainability is integrated into how stores are designed and operated, adding that the company will continue strengthening this commitment while expanding its network and supporting communities.

Part of the “Joy for Tomorrow” Vision

This milestone is part of the broader “Joy for Tomorrow” program of Jollibee Group, which focuses on sustainability across food, people, and the planet.

With rising electricity costs and growing climate concerns, the company is moving beyond basic compliance. It is actively integrating energy-efficient and water-saving systems across more locations nationwide.

For everyday customers, this shift means enjoying your favorite meals in spaces that are designed to be more responsible and efficient.

Jollibee’s LEED-certified store is more than just a milestone. It signals a larger movement in the industry toward smarter, more sustainable operations that benefit both the environment and the community.

As more brands follow this direction, dining out may soon come with an added layer of purpose. And for now, this initiative sets a strong example of how businesses can grow while caring for the planet.
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Saviynt Names Tim Wedande as APJ Field CTO to Strengthen Identity Security Strategy

Thursday, April 23, 2026


As cybersecurity threats grow more complex and businesses accelerate digital transformation, identity security is quickly becoming a top priority. To stay ahead of this shift, Saviynt has announced the appointment of a new Field Chief Technology Officer for the Asia Pacific and Japan region.

This move signals the company’s continued investment in helping enterprises navigate evolving security challenges across APJ.

A Strategic Leadership Move for a Fast-Growing Region

Tim Wedande steps into the role of Field CTO for Asia Pacific and Japan, bringing more than two decades of experience in cybersecurity and digital transformation.

Based in Melbourne, Wedande will lead regional technology strategy while working closely with customers, partners, and internal teams. His role will focus on guiding organizations through complex identity security initiatives and helping them get the most out of Saviynt’s Identity Cloud platform.

Driving Identity Security Adoption Across APJ

In his new position, Wedande will act as a trusted advisor to enterprises looking to modernize their identity and access management systems. This includes supporting strategic engagements and ensuring businesses can align their security investments with long-term growth.

Before joining Saviynt, he served as a partner at EY, where he worked with global organizations in highly regulated industries. His experience includes building scalable and resilient identity frameworks that support both compliance and innovation.

According to Alex Lei, the APJ region is seeing rapid changes, with more companies treating identity as a core layer of their cybersecurity strategy. He noted that Wedande’s consulting background and customer-focused approach will help strengthen Saviynt’s presence in the region.

The demand for identity and access management solutions continues to rise, driven by cloud adoption, hybrid work environments, and increasing cybersecurity risks. Industry projections suggest the APJ IAM market could more than double by 2030.

Supporting Digital and AI-Driven Transformation

Wedande shared that identity is now central to both business resilience and innovation. He emphasized that as organizations adopt digital and AI-led strategies, modernizing identity systems becomes essential for maintaining security while enabling growth.

He also pointed out that Saviynt is well-positioned to help enterprises simplify this complexity and turn identity into a strategic advantage.

What This Means for Businesses in APJ

With this leadership appointment, Saviynt is reinforcing its commitment to supporting enterprises across Asia Pacific and Japan. Businesses in the region can expect stronger guidance, improved solutions, and more tailored support as they strengthen their cybersecurity frameworks.

If your organization is navigating digital transformation or rethinking its security strategy, this is a clear sign that identity security should be at the center of your plans.
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PLDT Enterprise Expands Connectivity in Siquijor Through Strategic Cable Partnership


Reliable internet access is no longer a luxury, especially for island communities where connectivity can shape economic growth and daily life. In a move that strengthens regional digital infrastructure, PLDT Enterprise continues to deepen its partnership with Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp. to deliver faster and more dependable services across Siquijor Island.

This collaboration highlights how strong partnerships can bridge geographic gaps and bring enterprise-level connectivity to local communities.

Strengthening Regional Connectivity Across the Philippines

PLDT Enterprise has long been working with regional cable operators to improve digital access nationwide. Through its solutions like dedicated internet and Ethernet transport, the company helps local providers enhance network performance and expand their reach.

For communities in island provinces, these upgrades are especially important. They enable smoother access to online services, support local businesses, and improve overall quality of life.

Ma. Hazel Amoyan, Customer Relationship Management Head for Visayas at PLDT Enterprise, shared that their ongoing collaboration reflects a commitment to helping regional providers scale efficiently and deliver consistent digital services.

Overcoming Connectivity Challenges in Island Communities

Operating in a location like Siquijor comes with unique hurdles. Limited infrastructure, challenging terrain, and growing demand for internet services can make expansion difficult for local providers.

The partnership between PLDT Enterprise and Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp. began in 2016 with an iGate leased line supported by Smart’s base station network. At the time, this setup provided essential connectivity for the island.

As demand increased, so did the need for better infrastructure.

From Basic Connectivity to High-Capacity Fiber Network

A major turning point came in 2022 when PLDT rolled out fiber connectivity to Siquijor. This upgrade allowed the cable provider to access faster speeds and more reliable service.

Today, the company uses iGate Premium and has recently deployed a Metro E-Line transport service, which connects Siquijor directly to mainland content sources. This means faster data transfer and improved service delivery for subscribers.

According to Raul Villaver, the partnership has been instrumental in supporting their growth. He explained that improved capacity and stability have allowed them to better serve customers with digital TV, broadband, and data services.

Better Streaming, Stronger Network Reliability

With the Metro E-Line service in place, subscribers in Siquijor can now enjoy smoother access to high-bandwidth content such as HD channels, streaming platforms, and other data-heavy applications.

Beyond entertainment, the upgraded infrastructure ensures stronger network stability and operational continuity. This is crucial for businesses, schools, and households that rely on consistent internet access.

As more Filipinos depend on digital services, investments in regional connectivity become increasingly important. This partnership shows how collaboration between large telecom providers and local operators can create real impact.

For residents and businesses in Siquijor Island, it means better access to information, improved services, and more opportunities for growth.

If similar initiatives continue to expand across the country, more communities can benefit from reliable and high-quality connectivity.
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GCash, Ant International, and IFC Launch Sustainability Scorecard for Filipino MSMEs


Small businesses are the backbone of the Philippine economy, but many still struggle to access funding and scale sustainably. A new collaboration between GCash, Ant International, and International Finance Corporation aims to change that through a first-of-its-kind Sustainability Impact Scorecard.

Designed specifically for Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises, this initiative is set to make sustainable growth more achievable and measurable.

A Simpler Way for MSMEs to Track Sustainability

The Sustainability Impact Scorecard is being developed to help MSMEs understand and improve their environmental and social impact. Instead of complex frameworks, the tool will offer clear and practical insights tailored to local businesses.

By integrating with the GCash ecosystem, the scorecard will provide easy-to-use metrics aligned with global environmental, social, and governance standards. This means business owners can better track their performance while staying competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

Unlocking Access to Sustainable Financing

One of the biggest hurdles for MSMEs is securing funding. Despite making up 99.6 percent of businesses in the Philippines and employing a large portion of the workforce, many still face limited financing options.

This is where the scorecard becomes especially valuable. By serving as a credible benchmark, it allows businesses to demonstrate their sustainability efforts to lenders and investors. In turn, this can open doors to green financing and new partnerships.

As emphasized by industry leaders involved in the project, the tool is expected to boost credibility while giving MSMEs visibility into their real-world impact.

Combining Technology and Sustainability

According to Carrie Suen, the initiative is about making advanced technologies more accessible to smaller businesses. She explained that empowering MSMEs with tools like AI can help them become part of the next wave of sustainable digital transformation.

Meanwhile, Christina Ongoma highlighted the importance of equipping MSMEs with practical tools that support resilience and long-term growth.

The collaboration underscores a broader idea: sustainability is not just about environmental impact, but also social and economic progress.

From Global Discussions to Local Impact

This partnership builds on conversations from COP30 and aligns with Ant International’s Programme Sirius, which was launched to help MSMEs take their first steps toward sustainability.

With GCash as the pilot partner in the Philippines, the initiative aims to translate global sustainability goals into actionable, on-the-ground solutions that local businesses can actually use.

What to Expect Next

The rollout of the Sustainability Impact Scorecard will happen in phases. It will begin with ecosystem assessments and stakeholder engagement, followed by development, validation, and field testing.

Insights from the pilot phase could eventually lead to expansion across the Asia-Pacific region, giving more MSMEs access to tools that support responsible growth.

For many small business owners, sustainability can feel overwhelming or out of reach. This initiative changes that by making it more accessible, measurable, and directly tied to business growth.

If successfully implemented, the scorecard could become a powerful tool not just for compliance, but for unlocking new opportunities. It bridges the gap between doing good and doing well in business.

For MSMEs looking to future-proof their operations, this is definitely something to watch.
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Lenovo Names Sumir Bhatia as Asia Pacific Chief Commercial Officer to Drive AI Growth

Wednesday, April 22, 2026


Tech giant Lenovo is making a strategic move in the Asia Pacific region with the appointment of Sumir Bhatia as its first-ever Chief Commercial Officer. The new role signals the company’s push to strengthen its commercial operations and accelerate growth in one of the world’s most dynamic tech markets.

Announced on April 22, 2026 in Singapore, the leadership update highlights Lenovo’s focus on aligning its AI-driven solutions with the evolving needs of businesses across the region.

A New Role Focused on Growth and Alignment

In his new position, Sumir Bhatia will oversee a newly formed commercial organization that brings together enterprise sales, solution sales, channel partnerships, and alliances.

The goal is to create stronger alignment across teams and markets, allowing Lenovo to deliver more integrated and efficient solutions to its commercial customers. Bhatia will continue reporting to Amar Babu, reinforcing continuity in leadership.

A Decade of Experience Within Lenovo

Bhatia is no stranger to the company. He has spent the past ten years leading Lenovo’s Infrastructure Solutions Group in Asia Pacific, where he played a key role in driving sustained growth and transformation in the region’s infrastructure business.

His deep understanding of Lenovo’s ecosystem and the regional market puts him in a strong position to lead this next phase of expansion.

The Asia Pacific region remains one of the most exciting markets for digital transformation. Businesses across countries are adopting new technologies at different speeds, creating both challenges and opportunities.

This diversity allows Lenovo to introduce flexible, end-to-end solutions tailored to varying levels of digital maturity. With Bhatia at the helm, the company aims to better connect these solutions with customer needs across industries.

Strengthening Lenovo’s AI and Hybrid Solutions

One of the key priorities of the new commercial organization is to align Lenovo’s full-stack AI capabilities across its business units.

By doing so, the company aims to deliver more cohesive Hybrid AI solutions that combine hardware, software, and services. This approach is expected to help businesses improve efficiency, scale operations, and adapt to changing technological demands.

Leadership Changes in the Region

The appointment comes alongside other leadership updates within Lenovo Asia Pacific.

Longtime executive Ivan Cheung is set to retire in June 2026 after years of contributing to the company’s growth, particularly in its devices business.

Meanwhile, Benjamin Yeh has already stepped into the role of Vice President and General Manager of Lenovo’s PCs and Smart Devices business in the region. With over two decades of experience, he is expected to guide the division into its next stage of development.

Lenovo’s decision to appoint a Chief Commercial Officer for Asia Pacific reflects how important the region has become in the global tech landscape.

For businesses, this could mean better access to integrated solutions, stronger partnerships, and more tailored support as they navigate digital transformation. With AI continuing to reshape industries, moves like this show how companies are positioning themselves to stay ahead.
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Innovative Organic Spa Products That Mitigate Flash Floods Through a Restorative Economy Approach


A Sustainable Development Initiative in Pulu Village

Across the globe, the wellness industry has evolved far beyond lifestyle trends into a powerful engine of national and regional economies, driven by surging demand for natural, plant-based personal care. In the Philippines, traditional wellness is now emerging as a fast-growing economic driver rooted in biodiversity and cultural healing practices. As close ASEAN neighbors, the Philippines and Indonesia are increasingly connected through this shared foundation, advancing a regional push for “clean-label” products that turn rising global demand for aromatherapy and natural medicine into sustained growth for community-led enterprises across Southeast Asia

The Philippines’ essential oils sector is valued at approximately USD 265 to 286 million in 2025 and is projected to surpass USD 570 million by 2034. In Asia-Pacific, this growth reflects a broader shift toward sustainability, the region’s essential oils market expected to reach around USD 3.94 billion by 2031, growing at an 8.26% CAGR. These shared trajectories reinforce the Asia-Pacific’s position as the world’s fastest-growing wellness hub, accelerating efforts to link economic development with ecological restoration.

While the Philippines leads with community-driven cooperatives in provinces like Quezon and Palawan–distilling oils used for aromatherapy, cosmetics, and eco‑friendly household goods that respond to rising demand for sustainable alternatives–Indonesia provides a parallel narrative of resilience. Behind the serene interiors of global spas lies a production chain that connects these two nations through a commitment to pure, traceable raw materials. This narrative often begins in overlooked areas, such as Pulu Village in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, where essential oil cultivation serves as a vital shield against environmental threats like recurring floods.

From Disaster Mitigation to the Utilization of Plant-Based Materials

Pulu Village, a flood-prone area affected by earthquakes and extreme rainfall, has seen repeated disasters turn fertile farmland into sand. Between 2020 and 2021, these events impacted 1,365 people and slashed agricultural yields by nearly 70%. In response, Dilah Sahim (29), the Director of the Pulu Village Owned Enterprise and owner of Lana Tumbavani, focused first on ecological recovery by introducing citronella not as a commodity, but as a resilient plant to stabilize degraded land and reduce erosion alongside bamboo. "In the beginning, we did not think about business at all. What mattered was that the land was safe and not further damaged; the economy came later," said Dilah.

As conditions improved and the recovery process progressed, the village began processing citronella into essential oil. They named Lana Tumbavani, meaning 'citronella oil' in the local Kaili language. While the process is labor-intensive, yielding just 200 milliliters of oil from 200 kilograms of leaves after an eight-month wait, the enterprise remains committed to prioritizing quality over volume.

Lana Tumbavani gained international interest, and their products, including soaps, oils, and candles, are distributed as amenities in various tourism destinations. like the Aston Hotel in Sigi.They are also available for purchase in online marketplaces like Shopee in Indonesia.

Navigating the Global Market with Sustainable Values Through GIAT Incubation

As global demand for sustainable wellness products grows Tumbavani’s challenge shifted to entering the market without compromising its mission, supported by mentoring Gampiri Interaksi through GIAT 2.0 incubation program. The program also helped BUMDes Pulu refine cost structures, production capacity, pricing, and market readiness, emphasizing a restorative economy over scaling volume. "We see this as a restorative economic practice, not a conventional business. Nature is restored, the community is mobilized, and the products have clear value. If one of those is removed, the model collapses," said Nedya Sinintha Maulaning, a representative of Gampiri Interaksi.

Key challenges remain, including high-energy costs, limited skilled labor for distillation and inconsistent production cycles tied to demand rather than long-term contracts. Still, early impacts are evident; three to four households are now involved, earning modest but meaningful additional income, while citronella planting has helped stabilize less than one hectare of previously unproductive land and is believed to have reduced local flood risks. 

Restorative Economy Approach in Guarding the Village Sustainability Direction

Tumbavani shows that a restorative economy follows a clear cause-and-effect chain: land recovery leads to ecological stability, enabling consistent plant growth and, in turn, generating income. Previously unproductive land now creates value, with one hectare of citronella contributing to both village enterprise revenue and household earnings. "If the environment does not recover, there will be no product, and there will be no income. What we are doing is simply proving that caring for nature can directly impact the residents' economy," Dillah stated.

This impact is reflected in the participants’ stability, with participating households seeing their income rise by around 50% between 2024 and early 2025. The model deliberately reverses conventional development priorities, prioritizing environmental recovery over economic gain. Future growth is capped at 15% to protect ecological balance. Supported by Lingkar Temu Kabupaten Lestari (LTKL), Tumbavani exemplifies how restoring nature can serve as the foundation for durable, community-driven economic growth.

"Usually, nature is squeezed first, then the economy is shared. Here, nature is restored first, and then the economy grows. That is what makes it more durable," said Nedya.
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Capital One Philippines Ranks 2nd Among Best Workplaces in the Philippines

Monday, April 20, 2026


A Big Win for Workplace Culture

Great workplaces do not happen by accident. They are built through intention, consistency, and genuine care for employees. This year, Capital One Philippines proves exactly that by securing the second spot in the prestigious Best Workplaces in the Philippines list.

The recognition was awarded during ceremonies held at Conrad Manila, highlighting companies that excel in creating high-trust, people-first work environments.

What Makes This Recognition Meaningful

Organized by Great Place To Work, the awards honor organizations that prioritize employee well-being, inclusivity, and engagement.

For Capital One Philippines, this is not a one-time achievement. The company has consistently earned recognition, including:
  • Previous ranking as 4th Best Workplace in the Philippines
  • 6th Best Workplace in IT-BPM (large company category)
  • Inclusion in Asia’s Best Workplaces list

This steady climb reflects a long-term commitment to building a workplace where employees genuinely thrive.

A Culture Built on Trust and Empowerment

According to Raoul Teh, the recognition is rooted in a culture that puts people first.

He shared that when employees feel seen, heard, and empowered, they are able to create meaningful impact not just within the company but also for customers and the wider community. This philosophy continues to guide how the organization nurtures its workforce.

Benefits That Go Beyond the Basics

At the core of this recognition is Capital One Philippines’ Total Rewards Program, which takes a holistic approach to employee well-being. Instead of focusing only on salaries, the company looks at multiple aspects of an employee’s life.

Key benefits include:
  • Flexible work arrangements that support work-life balance
  • Competitive compensation packages
  • Comprehensive healthcare coverage for employees and their dependents, including de facto partners
  • Continuous learning and development opportunities
  • Programs that promote collaboration and community involvement

This well-rounded approach helps employees feel supported not just professionally but personally as well.

In today’s evolving work environment, employees are looking for more than just a job. They want purpose, flexibility, and a sense of belonging.

Companies like Capital One Philippines are setting the standard by creating environments where people can grow, feel valued, and contribute meaningfully.

Landing the second spot among the country’s best workplaces is no small feat. It reflects a deep commitment to building a culture where employees are empowered to succeed.

If you are exploring companies that truly invest in their people, Capital One Philippines stands out as a strong example of what a modern, people-first workplace should look like.
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