Lifestyle

• Rapid AI adoption in the Philippines is driving the need for globally competitive data center standards in performance, resilience, and sustainability.
• Schneider Electric and Digital Edge responded by developing NARRA1, Southeast Asia’s first dual-certified data center, setting a new benchmark for sustainable operations.
• Through partnerships with businesses, operators, and developers, Schneider Electric is helping position the Philippines as an emerging hub for resilient, energy-efficient, and sustainable data centers—ready for the next wave of AI-driven growth in Southeast Asia.

NARRA1, Southeast Asia’s first data center to earn dual global certifications located in Laguna Technopark, Biñan, was modernized by Digital Edge and Schneider Electric with resilient, energy-efficient systems to ensure stable operations amid rising AI and cloud workloads.

The Philippines’ data center market is expanding quickly as Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption drives the need for faster, more resilient, and sustainable infrastructure. To meet this rising demand, Schneider Electric, a global technology leader, and Digital Edge, a leading data center platform, accelerates the rollout of next-generation facilities, with NARRA1 emerging as Southeast Asia’s first data center to earn dual global certifications—setting a new benchmark for performance and sustainability in the region.

The Philippines’ data center sector is expanding quickly due to the use of artificial intelligence (AI), which is pushing the need for quicker, more resilient, and sustainable infrastructure. As the first data center in Southeast Asia to receive twin worldwide certifications, NARRA1 has raised the bar for sustainability and performance in the region. To address this increasing demand, Schneider Electric, a prominent global technology corporation, and Digital Edge, a premier data center platform, are speeding up the implementation of next-generation facilities.

“At Schneider Electric, we equip operators with advanced energy management and infrastructure solutions, helping make the Philippines a competitive destination for data center investment and enabling facilities like NARRA1 to meet the high standards of enterprises and hyperscale customers,” said Ireen Catane, Country President of Schneider Electric Philippines.

Positioned within Laguna Technopark in Biñan, Laguna, NARRA1 was modernized and scaled by Schneider Electric in partnership with Digital Edge, using efficient systems. Leveraging its global expertise in mission-critical environments, Schneider Electric integrated automatic transfer switches (ATS), uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and transformers to ensure stable power, built-in redundancy, and reliable operations. These solutions gave operators greater visibility, control, and predictability over energy use, enabling them to optimize efficiency, maintain uptime, and confidently scale operations to support growing AI and cloud workloads.

Aside from operational resilience and efficiency, sustainability is built into NARRA1’s design, which runs on 100% renewable energy and Schneider Electric-enabled high-efficiency electrical systems. With a market-leading annualized design Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.19, far below the global average of 1.6, the facility cuts electricity use by 16 million kilowatt-hours annually, lowering operational costs and carbon emissions. Water efficiency measures further cut usage by 44 million gallons per year, equivalent to nearly 80 Olympic-size swimming pools, allowing to conserve local resources while helping customers meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments without compromising performance.

As a result, NARRA1 became the first facility in Southeast Asia to secure two globally recognized certifications:

• ANSI/TIA-942-C Rated 3 Certification, recognizing world-class resilience, security, and operational quality; and
• EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) Certification from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), awarded to facilities achieving more than 20% efficiency in energy, water, and embodied carbon.

NARRA1 also earned LEED Gold certification, an internationally recognized standard by the U.S. Green Building Council, making it the Philippines’ first triple-green-certified data center with EDGE, LEED, and BERDE (Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence).

“Five years ago, we were building in the middle of a global pandemic amid uncertainty, supply-chain disruptions, and lockdowns,” said Vic Barrios, President of Digital Edge DC Philippines. “We needed partners who could deliver on time, uphold quality, and adapt with us in an environmentally complex market—one that embeds sustainability in their operations and that we could rely on end-to-end to build future-ready facilities.”

NARRA1 is the country’s only true carrier-neutral regional data center, hosting all major telecommunications providers and internet service providers.

NARRA1’s globally benchmarked architecture shows the nation’s capacity to offer dependable data center solutions that satisfy the demands of businesses and hyperscale operators. The Philippines is well-positioned to develop as a regional center for digital infrastructure thanks to its digital population, rising data demand, and advantageous location in Southeast Asia.

Schneider Electric positions the Philippines to spearhead the next wave of AI-driven growth in Southeast Asia by collaborating with companies, operators, and developers to construct sustainable and energy-efficient data centers.

JCB Platinum Credit Cardmembers can now take charge of their health with an exclusive PHP 3,000 discount on Executive Health Screening Packages at Fullerton Health Philippines.

From L-R: Darren Lim, Senior Vice President, Head of Radlink and Fullerton Health EHS for the Philippines; Carmie de Leon, Country General Manager of Radlink Philippines Corporation and EHS Lead for Fullerton Health Philippines; Wataru Tamura, Country Manager of JCB International Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as “JCB Philippines”)
Manila Branch; Yasutaka Nomura, Business Development Head of JCB Philippines.

Fullerton Health Philippines, the country’s first dedicated Executive Health Screening (EHS) and advanced diagnostic imaging center known for its five-star, personalized medical services, has teamed up with JCB to provide exclusive health privileges to JCB Platinum Cardmembers. Through this partnership, eligible cardholders can enjoy a PHP 3,000 discount on Fullerton Health Philippines’ Diamond and Sapphire EHS packages, offering a premium preventive screening experience tailored for busy professionals and executives.

The collaboration highlights JCB’s dedication to providing valuable lifestyle and wellness perks to its cardmembers, while reinforcing Fullerton Health Philippines’ goal of delivering healthcare that is personalized, accessible, and efficient. This initiative empowers professionals to prioritize their health through comprehensive executive screenings that are streamlined, private, and powered by advanced technology.

“Our collaboration with Fullerton Health represents the ideal union of wellness and convenience for our Platinum Cardmembers. We are delighted to offer eligible Cardmembers an exclusive opportunity to access world-class EHS services at a preferential rate. We invite these Cardmembers to take advantage of this partnership and experience Fullerton Health’s personalized care.” said Wataru Tamura, Country Manager of JCB Philippines.

Fullerton Health delivers a distinctly different executive health screening experience. Appointments can be booked in as little as 15 minutes, and comprehensive screenings are completed within three hours, with services designed to maximize privacy, personalization, and operational efficiency. The facility is the only dedicated center in the country for executive health screening and advanced diagnostic imaging, consistently receiving five-star reviews for its clinical care and customer experience.

“This partnership is an exciting opportunity for JCB Platinum Cardmembers to prioritize their health without compromising their busy schedules. Our executive EHS packages are tailored to deliver efficiency, comfort, and peace of mind. We hope more professionals will embrace this chance to become the CEO of their own health,” said Carmie de Leon, Country General Manager of Radlink Philippines Corporation and EHS Lead for Fullerton Health Philippines.

Darren Lim, Senior Vice President, Head of Radlink and Fullerton Health EHS for the Philippines added: “JCB members in the Philippines can expect a health screening experience unlike any other in the country. We have thoughtfully designed our screenings to make our clients feel like they are pursuing self-care and not just clinical care, combing Filipino hospitality with Singapore-based technologies. We’re thrilled to welcome them and demonstrate how preventive healthcare can be seamless, empowering, and accessible.”

The promo is available from January 15 to July 15, 2026, giving JCB Platinum Cardmembers the chance to avail of Fullerton Health’s executive health screening packages at a preferential rate.

For more details about Fullerton Health Philippines and its services, visit:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fullertonhealthph,

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fullertonhealthph/

Website: https://www.fullertonhealth.com/ph/

BPI launches its new Debit Mastercard made from 100% recycled,
PVCfree plastic—promoting more sustainable everyday banking.

In an effort to promote more environmentally friendly banking options, the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) has introduced a new Debit Mastercard made entirely of recycled, PVC-free plastic.

Both new customers who open an account through a BPI branch and current customers whose cards are about to expire or need to be renewed can get the new Debit Mastercard for free. For a regular replacement price of Php 200, customers who want to switch to the new recycled, PVC-free card outside of their renewal schedule may do so.

With more than 8.2 million debit cardholders countrywide, BPI is one of the top debit card issuers in the nation. The bank’s efforts to provide Filipinos with more responsible and future-ready financial products have reached yet another significant milestone with the arrival of the new environmentally friendly BPI Debit Mastercard.

“Reimagining the BPI Debit Mastercard to become an eco-friendly card is a testament to BPI’s commitment to its values of sustainability and innovation. At BPI, we want to connect more with our eco-conscious clients while also encouraging others to practice sustainable habits. By using sustainable materials for our card, we hope to make sustainable behavior the default option for everyone,” said Jenny Lacerna, Head of Mass Retail, BPI.

Clients can request the new card through the BPI app or BPI online and selecting their preferred branch for pickup. A Php 200 fee applies to all card requests made through these digital channels. Those replacing an existing card only need to block their current one in the BPI app to start the replacement process. Cards are available for pickup at any BPI branch within two to six banking days, depending on location. Clients may also visit any branch for assistance.

Beyond sustainability, the card also features thoughtful design enhancements—including a curved notch at the bottom left corner that helps users identify and orient their card by touch, improving accessibility and making it easier to distinguish from other cards.

With the new card, BPI Debit Mastercard holders can continue to enjoy the trusted convenience and security they rely on—secure payments online, in-store, and abroad; contactless transactions; easy access to cash via ATMs worldwide; and 24/7 account control through the BPI app.

“The BPI Debit Mastercard is still the same card that our clients rely on—stylish, secure, and now more sustainable,” added Lacerna.

BPI continues to promote sustainability while providing Filipinos with useful, inclusive, and accessible financial products through innovations like the environmentally friendly Debit Mastercard.

From left to right: Jed Estanislao, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer at Eastern Communications, Alvin Harilla, Head of Enterprise Sustainability and Governance at Eastern Communications, Arvin Barcena, Head of General Affairs and Administration at Eastern Communications, Atty. Aileen Regio, Eastern Communications Co-coordinator, Arlene Sy Soriano, Head of Sales and Engagement at First Gen Corporation, Jaeson Evangelista, Eastern Communications Co-coordinator, Maychelle Soriano, L ead Customer Progress Partner at First Gen Corporation, Melanie Tumang, Customer Progress Partner at First Gen Corporation, Macy Olazo, Customer Experience Officer at First Gen Corporation

Eastern Communications’ (Eastern Comms) use of renewable energy (RE) has increased from 2% to 10% throughout its offices and operations centers, which is a noteworthy and quantifiable milestone in operational dependability and environmental performance.

The increase in RE use coincides with Eastern Communications’ completion of its switch to geothermal energy, which was made possible by a strategic alliance with First Gen Corporation (First Gen).

Through this partnership, First Gen will supply geothermal energy to power the telco provider’s Makati headquarters and key Technical Operations Centers (TOCs), reinforcing the Eastern Comms’ view that future-ready digital infrastructure must be supported by clean, resilient energy.

“This partnership represents a clear step forward in how we power our operations,” said Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-coordinator of Eastern Comms. “By integrating geothermal energy into key facilities, we are reinforcing the resilience of our core infrastructure. Sustainability, for us, is directly linked to service continuity and long-term performance.”

The geothermal energy is sourced from facilities in Leyte, reinforcing the role of indigenous renewable resources in securing the country’s energy future. For Eastern Comms, the partnership ensures that critical network facilities—those that keep enterprises connected—are backed by stable, dependable power while also lowering carbon emissions.

The transition is enabled by the government’s Retail Competition Open Access (RCOA) program, which allows large electricity consumers to directly contract with power suppliers. Through RCOA, Eastern Comms is able to make deliberate energy choices that align with its long-term sustainability strategy while strengthening efficiency across its facilities.

“Increasing our renewable utilization is a concrete milestone. Together with the 222 kW solar capacity already supporting our Makati HQ and TOCs, our adoption of renewable geothermal energy strengthens our ability to operate efficiently while aligning with national climate priorities and the broader shift toward a circular economy,” said Jaeson Evangelista, Co-coordinator of Eastern Comms.

The renewable energy shift forms part of the telco provider’s ongoing infrastructure modernization initiatives, which include intelligent automation upgrades, energy-efficient systems, and phased disaster resilience projects designed to fortify its facilities and core network. These investments reflect the company’s 2026 direction, “Dare To Soar,” anchored on innovation, reliability, and responsible growth.

The collaboration with First Gen shows how digital innovation and sustainability are becoming more intertwined as Eastern Communications pursues its “Dare To Soar” approach. Using renewable energy to power vital facilities is a calculated step toward creating a network that is more resilient and prepared for the future.

Visit www.eastern.com.ph or call 5300-7000 to find out more about Eastern Communications and their future collaborations.

For as low as PHP10,000, you can grow your money easily, securely, and confidently 

By facilitating the opening of Unit Investment Trust Fund (UITF) accounts online, Metrobank continues to make investing simpler and more accessible.

Metrobank Online, the Bank’s online banking platform, now allows customers to open and manage their UITF investments directly. Investing is possible at any time and from any location with the UITF Online feature. With only a few clicks, customers can monitor their portfolios and subscribe to or redeem funds, all expertly handled by Metrobank’s multi-awarded team of fund managers.

Whether you’re just beginning your investment journey or looking to diversify your portfolio, Metrobank offers a seamless way to grow your funds online. The UITF Online feature underscores the Bank’s commitment to helping Filipinos take charge of their financial growth through simple, secure, and expert-guided digital investment platforms.

Metrobank’s over 25 UITF products are designed to meet specific financial goals and risk profiles—from short-term objectives to long-term aspirations. For new investors, Metrobank Online requires PHP10,000, an affordable and accessible entry point to investing. Meanwhile, for experienced investors, the Bank offers a strategic avenue to diversify portfolios and build on existing wealth.

To ensure your peace of mind while you digitally manage your funds, Metrobank ensures that the Metrobank Online platform is backed by global security standards. And to help you better understand your investment’s performance and make your next money move, you will receive timely research notes and market insights from the country’s best managed and strongest bank.

“Metrobank UITF Online exemplifies our commitment to innovation by offering a secure, seamless digital investment platform. Backed by Metrobank’s proven fund management expertise, clients gain confidence, efficiency, and access to expert insights – empowering informed decisions and long-term financial growth,” said Ric Pedrosa, Metrobank Head for Trust Banking Group.

The CFA Society Philippines’ 10th Annual Best Managed Funds of the Year Awards 2025, which honor exceptional fund managers in the nation, have once again honored Metrobank’s Trust Banking Group for its superior management of peso- and dollar-dominated UITFs.

With Metrobank UITF Online, you may begin increasing your money with ease, security, and assurance.

Know more about Metrobank UITFs here: https://www.metrobank.com.ph/investments/uitf

Start your investment journey anytime, anywhere by visiting https://onlinebanking.metrobank.com.ph/

The National Arts Month opening ceremony in Davao was graced by (L-R) Alcantara Foundation Executive Director Ryan Vidanes, NCCA Project Officer Corrinah Olazo, Davao City Office for Culture and the Arts Division Head Oscar Casaysay, Councilor Atty. Petite Principe, Alsons Dev Vice President and General Manager Jolla A. Soriaga, NCCA Commissioner of the Sub-commission for Culture and the Arts Dr. Lordinio A. Vergara, Councilor Al Ryan S. Alejandre, Davao City Tourism Operations Officer In Charge Willenito Tormis Jr., NCCA National Head of the Committee on Visual Arts Al-Nezzar B. Ali, and NCCA National Executive Member of the Committee on Visual Arts Abraham A. Garcia Jr.

Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) strengthened its dedication to promoting culture and the arts as a vital part of community growth by acting as a strategic partner for the Davao celebration of National Arts Month on February 20–21, 2026.

The event was mounted in collaboration with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation Inc., uniting both public and private sectors to champion and support local artistic and cultural initiatives.

The opening ceremony at Rizal Park featured performances by students under DepEd’s Special Program for the Arts (SPA), highlighting the region’s emerging artistic talents. In the afternoon, the Davao Choreographers Forum brought together local dance practitioners for a session of learning and exchanging ideas. The day concluded with a concert by the Kaliwat Performing Arts Collective entitled, Ang Yuta, ang Tawo ug ang Kalinaw (Ang Bayan, ang Tao, at ang Kapayapaan).

Students from Magallanes Elementary School’s SPA Rondalla perform during the morning opening program, while the Kaliwat Performing Arts Collective takes the stage in the evening for “Ang Yuta, ang Tawo ug ang Kalinaw” as part of the Davao leg of National Arts Month.

“As a real estate developer, we believe communities should be vibrant not only economically, but also culturally. A city that nurtures its artists nurtures its soul. When culture thrives, so does Davao,” said Alsons Dev Vice President and General Manager Jolla A. Soriaga, emphasizing the importance of sustaining Filipino creativity and cultural heritage as foundations of thriving communities.

On February 21, the celebration continued at Poblacion Market Central with the opening of Mugna: A Visual Arts Exhibit, showcasing artworks by SPA students. The exhibit, which is one of the highlights of the Davao leg of National Arts Month, will run until March 7, 2026.

Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel Rene A. Dominguez joins partners and young artists in the exhibit opening of Mugna, symbolizing the collective effort to support emerging creatives.

Alsons Development and Investment Corporation’s collaboration with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and the Davao City Office for Culture and the Arts highlights its strong commitment to programs that broaden public access to the arts and uphold its goal of building inclusive, dynamic communities rooted in culture, heritage, and a shared sense of identity.

“We look forward to many more years of collaboration, building a city where diversity is celebrated, the arts are cherished, and culture guides our growth,” affirmed Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel Rene A. Dominguez.

To learn more about Alsons Dev’s cultural and community efforts, visit www.alsonsdev.com.