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Lifestyle, News

Alsons Dev Unveils New Leadership, Naming Jolla Soriaga as Vice President and General Manager

Jolla A. Soriaga, newly appointed Vice President and General Manager of Alsons Dev, has been with the company since 1998 for the Las Terrazas project.

Jolla A. Soriaga has been named Vice President and General Manager of Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), with effect from November 1, 2025. She takes over for Eric D. de la Costa, who served with dedication for 26 years until retiring. Alsons Dev’s ongoing dedication to organizational strength and operational excellence is demonstrated by the leadership change.

Soriaga has worked at Alsons Dev for more than 25 years. Las Terrazas, Northcrest, Fernwood, Wood Lane, Eden Ridge, and Northtown are just a few of the notable residential and mixed-use projects that she has successfully completed thanks to her innovative leadership roles in business growth. She was the Assistant Vice President for Business Development and Operations prior to her appointment. Soriaga will be in charge of the company’s daily operations, strategic plans, and governance in her new role.

Her appointment comes as Eric D. de la Costa concludes a remarkable tenure with the company. He began his career with Alsons Dev in 1995 and rose from consultant to Vice President and General Manager. Under his leadership, the company broadened its footprint and product mix with the launch of Northtown, Alsons Dev’s first township project; Nurtura, Alsons Dev’s mid-cost housing brand; and Avia Estate, a major township development in Sarangani. His guidance and people-centered approach have shaped the organization and its culture over the years.

Alsons Dev thanks de la Costa for his vital support as the company begins this new chapter and gives Soriaga complete confidence to carry on the organization’s aim of creating thriving, sustainable communities in her new position.

Go to https://alsonsdev.com/ to find out more about Alsons Dev and its advancements.

 

Lifestyle, News

Manila Water’s net income increased by 25% in the third quarter of 2025

Manila Water continued its strong performance, reporting another period of double-digit net income growth. Earnings rose by 25%, reaching almost ₱12.6 billion. The company’s solid results were largely driven by sustained revenue momentum in both the East Zone Concession and the Non-East Zone Philippines (NEZ PH) operations. Supported by ongoing efforts to boost efficiency and productivity, Manila Water achieved a 14% increase in EBITDA, exceeding ₱21 billion. This pushed its EBITDA margin up by three percentage points from the previous year, reaching 73%. The company also recorded a ₱1.1-billion gain from the sale of its investment in Thailand’s East Water. Excluding such one-off items, core net income grew by 15% to ₱11.6 billion, with the core net income margin improving by two points to 39%.

For Manila Water’s East Zone Concession, revenues similarly increased by double-digits to reach ₱24 billion for the period, driven primarily by the implementation of the 3rd tranche of the approved Rate Rebasing tariff adjustment in January 2025. On the other hand, water demand saw a 1% decline in billed volume with lower consumption from residential customers with lower reading days, as well as lower cross-border volume. Expenditures related to technology platform costs drove operating expenses for the period, but overall, were offset by efficiencies realized in power and other direct costs. These kept total costs muted at a 1% growth to ₱5.9 billion. EBITDA increased by 14% to ₱18.2 billion, with EBITDA margin improving by two percentage points to 75%.

Beyond the East Zone Concession, the company’s businesses across the rest of the country saw earnings growth of 11% to reach ₱852 million in net income for the period. This was driven by strong contributions from several of its key business units, by way of implemented tariff adjustments and a 5% increase in total billed volume. Main contributors during the period are several of the group’s core domestic businesses, namely Clark Water, Estate Water, as well as several subsidiaries operating in Visayas-Mindanao namely Boracay Water, Cebu Water and Tagum Water in Davao. This solid performance pushed revenues up by 8% to ₱7 billion, resulting in a 5% improvement in net income to ₱1.1 billion. For Manila Water International, equity share in net income jumped significantly to ₱1.1 billion. This was driven mainly by the gain on the sale of the East Water investment which was fully impaired in prior years.

Manila Water continued to invest in critical infrastructure towards the fulfillment of its regulatory and service commitments. Group-wide capital expenditures (CAPEX) reached nearly ₱18 billion for the first nine months of the year, with the East Zone Concession accounting for 85% of total CAPEX at ₱14.9 billion.

Manila Water President and CEO Jocot de Dios is encouraged by the solid performance of the business units, even as the company begins to see significant benefits from its disciplined management of its portfolio, and its deliberate approach to new business growth:

“We are happy to see that the foundation laid for efficient and responsible operations, both within and outside our Metro Manila Concession, is lending towards the resilient performance we are seeing in our businesses. Equally important, our disciplined approach to managing our portfolio is now beginning to bear fruit.

“We will maintain the same level of rigor and discipline in managing our current operations and in seeking new growth opportunities. We understand that consistently executing our strategy is key to creating long-term value for both our shareholders and stakeholders.”

 

Lifestyle, News

Make every goal joyful and use Metrobank to transform your savings into rewards

What makes you genuinely happy? Perhaps it’s the sense of financial security you’ve been striving for, that long-overdue beach trip, or just the knowledge that your funds are increasing for what really matters—your peace of mind.

Whatever makes you happy, no matter how large or small, Metrobank wants to make you feel even happier. Because of this, it has launched the Spark Joy Promo, which will reward your regular saving behaviors and bring you one step closer to your goals.

Because if you think about it, saving isn’t just about numbers on your bank account— it’s about the life moments you’re working toward. Now, Metrobank is giving you an extra reason to feel good about it with a guaranteed eGift of up to PHP10,000 just for growing your money with the Spark Joy Promo.

The promo runs from October 24, 2025 to February 28, 2026. It’s simple: the more you save, the more you earn — not just in interest, but in instant rewards that give you additional money boost.

Joining is easy. If you do not have a deposit account with Metrobank yet, you can open an account at any Metrobank branch or start an eSavings account through the Metrobank App.

Once your account is set or if you already have a Metrobank deposit account, simply register for the promo via the Giftaway portal and start building your savings. All you need to do is reach the required average daily balance (ADB) of at least PHP15,000 and maintain it for six months — or continue adding up.  The higher your ADB growth, the bigger your eGift reward will be.

For example, if your savings grows by PHP15,000 and you maintain it, you’ll get a PHP300 eGift. If you reach and sustain PHP 500,000, you can unlock a guaranteed PHP10,000 reward. It’s like hitting a “level up” moment in your savings journey— and who doesn’t love a good win?

Consider this a joyous challenge to yourself: to save with intention, to accomplish significant goals, and to reward yourself along the way. Spark Joy literally makes the journey rewarding, whether you’re saving for long-term stability or short-term delight.

Visit the Metrobank Spark Joy Promo page or visit the Metrobank branch that is closest to you to find out more or to register.

Because when you utilize Metrobank, your savings not only increase but also provide you happiness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

Fisher Mall Uses Holiday Customs to Help Cancer Patients

A Holiday of Hope: Fisher Mall’s tree lighting unites communities and gives back through Bahay Aruga partnership

This year, Fisher Mall’s Quezon Avenue and Malabon locations came alive with the much awaited “A Holiday of Hope” celebration, a magnificent tree-lighting event that brought together families, customers, partners, and local politicians in a spirit of community.

Fisher Mall’s “A Holiday of Hope” made Christmas feel even more magical this year. Seeing both branches light up and bring together families, shoppers, and community leaders reminded me how meaningful it is when a whole community gathers to celebrate. It wasn’t just a tree-lighting event — it felt like a shared moment of hope and togetherness.

“Fisher Mall has always believed in creating spaces where people feel connected,” said Raymond Del Rosario, President of the Fisher Mall Group of Companies. “Events like this remind us that a mall is more than just a place to shop because it is also

A Celebration of Community, Creativity, and Collaboration

The dual celebration of Fisher Mall’s Christmas launch brought families, shoppers, and partners together to welcome the holiday season. Guests enjoyed live performances by the Quezon City Symphonic Band, Malabon Concert Singers, and Ballet Manila, as well as interactive activities that encouraged engagement and connection.

Adding a nostalgic touch, the mall also featured a Christmas-themed LEGO display by the PinoyLUG community, led by Leslie Araujo, which captivated both kids and adults alike.

The celebration was graced by representatives from the Quezon City Government, including Councilor Dorothy “Doray” Delarmente, Councilor Charm M. Ferrer, and Councilor Nikki Crisologo, underscoring the city’s shared commitment to supporting local culture, creativity, and community engagement.

“Our activity centers are built to be platforms for performers, cultural groups, and local organizations,” Del Rosario said. “We take pride in giving communities a space to gather, express themselves, and thrive. We look forward to expanding these partnerships with our LGUs even further.”

Turning Holiday Shopping Into Acts of Giving

The Fisher Elite Card embodies Fisher Mall’s mission of community and compassion. A portion of every card sold until December 31, 2025 at Fisher Mall Supermarket and the Fisher Department Store in both branches goes directly to sustaining Bahay Aruga – A Free Halfway House for Pediatric Cancer Patients Inc. Each purchase helps provide essentials for children, from nourishment and daily care to medical support and learning activities.

Since forming their partnership in 2023, Fisher Mall and Bahay Aruga have collaborated closely to help children fighting cancer, proving that even simple shopping choices can make a significant difference in the community.

“As we light our Christmass trees in both our malls, we also light hearts with hope,” Del Rosario shared. “We invite everyone to get into the season of giving as we come together as one community to make a lasting difference.”

Go to Facebook.com/fishermallofficial to learn more about using the Fisher Elite card to support Bahay Aruga.

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

Celebrating 25 years of service, Clark Water plans to invest P17.3 billion in service enhancements through 2040

Clark Water Corporation, an operating unit of Manila Water Non-East Zone subsidiary Manila Water Philippine Ventures and the sole water and wastewater service provider of the Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ), highlighting major milestones and announcing plans to further enhance its services for customers and locators.

The only provider of water and wastewater services in the Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ), Clark Water Corporation, an operating division of Manila Water Non-East Zone subsidiary Manila Water Philippine Ventures, recently commemorated its 25 years of operation by highlighting significant achievements and revealing plans to improve its offerings for clients and locators.

Clark Water has invested about P6.6 billion to modernize water and wastewater systems throughout the Freeport Zone since Manila Water took over operations in 2011. Strong cooperation with its regulator, the Clark Development Corporation (CDC), headed by President and CEO Atty., made these changes possible. Agnes VST Devanadera and the locators’ ongoing assistance in the area.

As a result of these strategic investments, Clark Water consistently delivers 100% coverage for water and wastewater services, continuous service, full regulatory compliance, and industry-leading performance—solidifying its position as a benchmark in the Philippine water utility sector.

Clark Water upholds operational excellence through four strategic pillars: Efficiency, Environmental Protection, Customer Value, and People & Community. These guide its mission to deliver sustainable, high-quality water services in the Clark Freeport Zone.

Clark Water ensures competitive rates, 24/7 service, and full compliance with Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water. The Company maintains world-class Non-Revenue Water (NRW) levels at just 6%, supported by a 20% supply buffer for reliability. It has achieved 100% sewer network integration and operates a centralized, compliant wastewater treatment facility, meeting DENR standards (DAO 2016-08 & DAO 2021-19).

These achievements come amid growing demand, with locators increasing from 1,096 in 2021 to 1,213 in 2025, and total water service connections reaching 1,894.

“Hindi pwedeng walang tubig, and we have lots of restaurants and hotels. We cannot afford to have water that is below standard. These are the challenges to Clark Water, and I am very proud to say that they have kept their commitment, their promise, and their performance,” shared Devanadera.

Beyond its core operations, Clark Water champions a safe and inclusive workplace while promoting the well-being of employees and communities through responsible water resource management. The Company also extends its impact beyond the Freeport Zone by supporting water access initiatives in Pampanga, building vital water supply facilities, and installing refrigerated drinking fountains to encourage hydration and public health.

Clark Water continues to recognize the importance of continued investment in its facilities as the CFZ continues to thrive as one of the Philippines’ major tourism and investment hubs.

“Continuous investment in water and wastewater infrastructure is critical to sustaining the growth of the Clark Freeport Zone as one of the Philippines’ premier tourism and investment destinations. By upgrading our facilities and introducing innovative solutions, we ensure that locators and communities have access to reliable, high-quality, and sustainable services. These improvements not only support economic development but also reinforce our commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term resilience,” said Lyn Zamora, General Manager of Clark Water.

Since Manila Water assumed operations in 2011, Clark Water has invested approximately P6.6-billion to upgrade water and wastewater systems across the Freeport Zone.

Clark Water has created the 2026 Service Improvement Plan, a strategic project centered on four major areas, as part of its long-term vision. Diversifying water sources is a top priority for water security in order to lessen dependency on groundwater and guarantee resilience and sustainability. In order to ensure safe and effective service delivery, service quality drives facility modifications to meet changing water and wastewater regulations. In order to satisfy the expanding needs of Clark Freeport Zone locators and ensure continuous operations, service accessibility and continuity promote service expansion and dependability. Lastly, Regulatory Compliance demonstrates Clark Water’s dedication to fulfilling all legal obligations while attending to the water and wastewater requirements of its stakeholders.

Clark Water plans to invest P17.3 billion for system improvements and infrastructure renovations between 2026 and 2040.

“As we celebrate 25 years of service, we reaffirm our commitment to world-class water and wastewater solutions for the Clark Freeport Zone. This milestone is a promise for the future—where sustainability, innovation, and excellence remain at our core. With the investment, we will continue supporting growth while protecting our environment and communities. Thank you to our partners and stakeholders for your trust as we build a stronger, more resilient Clark.” – Melvin Tan, COO of Manila Water Non-East Zone Operations said.

Lifestyle, News

Schneider Electric is one of the Philippine companies stepping up their sustainability efforts to encourage growth in the face of economic uncertainty

  • In 2025, 97% of local companies have set sustainability targets. However, only 51% have implemented comprehensive strategies, leaving a 46% gap between ambition and execution.
  • 92% of companies in the Philippines this year are already applying or interested to apply AI to advance their sustainability ambitions, demonstrating its potential as a sustainability accelerant.
  • For the private sector, sustainability investments remain constrained, with economic uncertainty still the top concern but easing from 49% in 2024 to 45% in 2025.

Global energy technology leader Schneider Electric today released the findings of its annual Green Impact Gap survey, which showed that Philippine business executives increasingly see sustainability as a driver of growth and competitiveness, despite citing geopolitical unrest and economic uncertainty as obstacles to additional sustainability investment.

97% of businesses have set sustainability goals. According to 58% of them, technological improvements have made sustainability reporting easier in the past year. However, 32% still have difficulties, citing things like growing expenses.

This year, 55% of company leaders identify innovation and competitiveness as key drivers of sustainability, with the strongest emphasis from the semiconductors (71%) and data centers (60%) sectors, followed by real estate (53%) and healthcare (52%). This underscores how industries increasingly link sustainability with business innovation.

Sustainability is also delivering tangible business value. This year, 52% of leaders say it creates new business opportunities, up from 42% in 2024. Similarly, 42% pursue sustainability to strengthen brand and reputation, compared with 32% last year, while 46% cite cost savings and financial benefits, up from 43%. These year-on-year gains demonstrate that sustainability has evolved from a peripheral initiative into a core strategy for competitiveness and resilience.

Misalignment between declared goals and tangible action persists

While findings underscore the growing commitment to sustainability in the Philippines, they also reveal a persistent ‘Green Impact Gap’ — the misalignment between companies’ declared sustainability goals and the tangible actions taken to achieve them. This year, 97% of companies set targets, but less than half are taking comprehensive action, keeping the regional Green Impact Gap at 46%.

With 2025 marking a critical milestone on the path to 2030 climate goals, companies remain optimistic. Around 84% express confidence in meeting or exceeding their 2030 targets, while 20% report being more than three years ahead of schedule.

“Companies across the Philippines are not just weathering the storm—they’re using sustainability as a compass to navigate it,” said Ireen Catane, Country President, Schneider Electric Philippines. “Despite volatile economic conditions, early movers and adopters are turning to digitalization and AI to drive efficiency, mitigate risk, and create lasting value.”

In parallel, two-thirds of companies (66%) report being very or moderately familiar with Republic Act 11285, the Philippines’ Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act. Among these, 85% express moderate to high confidence in meeting its requirements, signaling readiness to implement concrete energy-efficiency measures. This trend aligns with the DOE’s national efforts to promote energy efficiency, supporting businesses and local governments in optimizing energy use while advancing sustainability goals.

AI unlocks cost savings and energy efficiency

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is helping companies address financial and energy risks. 92% of companies in the Philippines this year are already applying or interested to apply AI to advance their sustainability ambitions. At 59%, AI for energy consumption optimization now tops the list of energy and resource efficiency applications, rising ahead of waste management (50%) and smart building management and automation (49%).

Companies see AI’s biggest impact on sustainability in automating data collection and reporting (51%), optimizing energy use (44%), and enhancing product design (44%). By improving energy efficiency, AI helps mitigate cost risks, aligning with the 46% of company leaders who cite financial benefits and savings as key drivers for sustainability amid persistent energy price concerns.

With the rise of energy demand in the Philippines, which the Department of Energy (DOE) projects will grow 4–5% annually and potentially double total power consumption by 2040 under the Philippine Energy Plan, companies continued to adjust their decarbonization strategies in 2025. The most widely adopted measures were switching to low-carbon or electric vehicles for transport (27%, up from 25%), and investing in research and development to drive innovation in low carbon technologies (27%, up from 25%).

From 2024 to 2025, companies advanced in cutting Scope 2 emissions—indirect emissions from purchased energy such as electricity, steam, heating, and cooling—through onsite renewables (34%, up from 29%) and energy-efficient equipment (41%, unchanged). They also adopted emerging measures like Green IT plans (31%). Efforts to reduce Scope 3, or value chain, emissions also grew, with gains in supply chain optimization (33%, up from 29%) and in promoting remote work and video conferencing to cut commuting and travel-related emissions (31%, up from 30%).

Investments hold steady despite economic uncertainty

With business leaders seeing the bottom-line benefit of sustainability, planned investment in sustainability transformation has held steady with 23% of companies planning to invest at least $US1 million over the next two years.

While major barriers to investment in sustainability still exist, most have somewhat decreased annually. Although it decreased from 49% in 2024 to 45% in 2025, economic uncertainty is still the biggest worry. Internal budgetary restrictions declined more sharply, from 48% to 37%, while weak incentives (36% to 35%) and regulatory and policy challenges (37% to 35%) also slightly declined. These changes imply that, despite ongoing structural and financial difficulties, the investment environment in 2025 is comparatively better for corporate sustainability than it was in 2024.

In its third year, 4,500 middle- to senior-level executives from nine Asian markets—Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam—participated in the Schneider Electric Green Impact Gap survey, which was carried out in collaboration with Milieu Insight. The survey consists of 30 questions that gather information about how companies are prioritizing and investing in sustainability.

 

 

Lifestyle, News

Pru Life UK’s dedication to excellent governance is symbolized by four golden arrows

Atty. Jan Mari Adan, Senior Manager for Legal and Corporate Governance (left), and Atty. Donna Mendoza, Vice President for Legal (right), accepted the Four Golden Arrow award at the Golden Arrow Awards 2025.

The Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) awarded Pru Life UK the coveted Four Golden Arrow award, demonstrating its unwavering dedication to corporate governance excellence. This honor also demonstrates the company’s leadership in the insurance industry, which is demonstrated by its commitment to accountability, transparency, and regulatory compliance.

The top Philippine publicly traded and insurance firms in terms of corporate governance were honored at the Golden Arrow Awards, which were recently hosted at Okada Manila in Parañaque City. As part of the 2024 ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) and the Corporate Governance Scorecard (CGS) assessment results, Pru Life UK has been recognized for the ninth time in a row this year, along with 25 other insurance businesses.

“We are grateful for this recognition from the Institute of Corporate Directors, which also demonstrates our consistent efforts in fostering shareholder engagement and sustainable business practices,” said Atty. Donna Mendoza, Vice President for Legal of Pru Life UK. This award further inspires us to uphold world-class corporate governance standards and provide responsible and ethical services.”

The rights and fair treatment of shareholders, timely disclosure, and strategic and efficient board monitoring are just a few of the important areas in which the ACGS evaluates business performance. The framework, which consists of 193 assessment questions based on publicly accessible disclosures on the companies’ websites, seeks to improve governance standards and draw investors to the region’s well-run businesses.

Pru Life UK is unwavering in its commitment to assisting Filipino families in achieving financial stability through creative insurance and investment solutions, even as it continues to promote best practices in corporate governance.

Notes:

*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year 

 

Lifestyle, News

Manila Water transfers additional facilities to the improved Retail Aggregation Program of ERC.

The Manila Water enterprise continues to lead the way in sustainable energy adoption as it transitions fifty-six (56) additional facilitites to the Energy Regulatory Commission’s Retail Aggregation Program (RAP)

As it moves fifty-six (56) more facilities to the Energy Regulatory Commission’s Retail Aggregation Program (RAP), Manila Water continues to set the standard for the use of sustainable energy.

The 56 facilities include 45 Estate Water facilities in Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Metro Manila, 10 additional facilities from Manila Water Non-East Zone operating unit Laguna Water, and the Manila Water Foundation’s La Mesa Ecopark, which is the first and largest ecopark to run solely on renewable energy under RAP, demonstrating the dedication to sustainable operations and creative energy solutions. A total of 1,682 kW of demand is represented by the changeover.

This milestone was marked with another RAP switching ceremony held at the La Mesa Ecopark in Quezon City, which is the 4th switching for Manila Water this year.

“Manila Water’s participation in RAP demonstrates its commitment to innovation and consumer empowerment. By aggregating demand and leveraging competitive supply options, Manila Water is helping pave the way for a more inclusive and resilient energy sector. At the ERC, our mandate is clear: to promote consumer welfare while ensuring a fair and competitive energy market, and RAP is a key component of this vision.” said ERC Director for Market Operations Service Sharon Montaner.

“Since Manila Water’s first switching in February 2025, RAP participation has grown by 70%, a rate faster than RCOA, reflecting greater inclusivity and freedom of choice”, Director Montaner further noted.

Then 56 facilities consist of 10 additional facilities from Manila Water Non-East Zone operating unit Laguna Water, 45 facilities of Estate Water covering Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Metro Manila and Manila Water Foundation’s La Mesa Ecopark.

The event was also graced by ERC Chair Francis Saturnino Juan, MWSS Corporate Office Department Manager for Policy, Planning, and Public Relations Christian Nicole Baluca, MWSS-RO Legal Affairs Department Manager Crescenciano Minas Jr., PrimElectric Holdings Chief Operating Officer Richard Nethercott, IEMOP Vice President for Administration Sheryll Dy, MERALCO AVP and Head of Enterprise Commercial and Conglomerates Bernice Rama, and representatives from the Climate Change and Sustainability Department of the Quezon City Local Government.

With these developments, Manila Water now sources electricity for a total of 214 facilities, representing an aggregated demand of 11 MW. Under the enhanced RAP framework, these facilities are supplied by PrimeRES Energy through Meralco’s distribution network.

“This is all about the power of choice. We have 214 facilities switched now to RAP… and that’s very powerful because at the end of the day, we are held as a utility accountable to the costs that we charge our customers. We’ve tried to rethink our approach towards tariff and our customer base and really be as sufficient as possible,” says Jocot De Dios, Manila Water President and CEO.

Earlier this year, Manila Water pioneered the country’s first transition to the enhanced Retail Aggregation Program, consolidating ten (10) of its wastewater facilities under a single electricity sourcing. This marked a significant step in leveraging the RAP framework to streamline energy procurement and reduce costs.

Building on this momentum, the Company expanded its aggregation efforts through its operating units. In April, Laguna Aquatech facilitated the switch of 25 facilities, representing a combined demand of 900 kW. Additionally, Laguna Water transitioned 67 more facilities, contributing a substantial 4.3 MW to the total aggregated demand.

In May, Boracay Water made history as the first utility in the Visayas region to adopt RAP. Its switch included 11 facilities, ranging from water treatment plants and pumping stations to wastewater treatment facilities and lift stations, further highlighting the adaptability of RAP across diverse operational setups.

Under the enhanced Retail Aggregation Program (RAP) framework, consumers like Manila Water are now able to group the electricity requirements of its facilities located within the same distribution utility franchise areas. This approach strengthens the principle of consumer choice and opens the door to more cost-effective energy options available in the retail electricity market, which is one of the core mandates of the EPIRA.

 

 

Lifestyle, News

Experts in Eastern Communications and Cybersecurity Spread Knowledge About Growing Cyberthreats in the Philippines

Snapshot from Eastern Communications’ latest Thoughts on Tech vodcast episode with host Justin Quirino and guest speaker Maez De Guzman, Cybersecurity Leader at EY Global Delivery Services (EY GDS) Philippines

Snapshot from Eastern Communications’ latest Thoughts on Tech vodcast episode with host Justin Quirino and guest speaker Colonel Francel Padilla, Spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)

Cybercriminals are discovering new ways to take advantage of artificial intelligence as it gets more integrated into corporate operations. Eastern Communications is pushing Philippine businesses to take a more proactive approach against AI-driven cyberthreats in honor of Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This issue has gotten more pressing as attacks get smarter, faster, and more difficult to identify.

In order to assist businesses in navigating this changing landscape of digital threats, the telco provider’s Thoughts on Tech vodcast series recently released special Cybersecurity Month episodes. Colonel Francel Padilla, a spokesman for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and Maez De Guzman, a cybersecurity leader at EY Global Delivery Services (EY GDS) Philippines, are featured in the episodes. Their segments explained how businesses may safeguard the country’s digital infrastructure and increase cyber resilience.

A call to strengthen the country’s cyber defense

Maez De Guzman, Cybersecurity Leader at EY Global Delivery Services (EY GDS) Philippines

De Guzman stressed that businesses, especially small and medium enterprises, must keep pace with the speed of technological change. “We’re being attacked [at] machine speed, but we’re actually defending [at] human speed,” she said, noting that adapting a stronger cybersecurity mindset begins with adopting the right frameworks, such as Zero Trust. “So, the framework actually means zero trust from its name meaning trust no one, verify everything. All the technologies now actually support zero trust — from micro segmentation, from all identity-related proxies — everyone should align to the framework of zero trust.”

Colonel Francel Padilla, Spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)

In another episode, Col. Padilla emphasized that cybersecurity is no longer confined to individual organizations but is now a matter of national defense. “Cyber has no barriers, so you cannot really say, ‘You’re intruding [into] the Philippine cyberspace.’ “There’s no such thing,” she said. She added that digital protection must extend beyond institutions to strengthen national resilience, noting, “If we have a secured country, we have a secured economy then.”

Supporting advocacy with action

Eastern Communications is backing its advocacy with practical solutions for local enterprises. In partnership with Nexusguard, a global leader in DDoS mitigation and cybersecurity, Eastern now offers DDoS-Protected Eastern IDS (Internet Direct Service), empowering businesses with seamless dedicated business internet backed by 24/7 reliable security.

According to Nexusguard’s 2025 DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) Trends Report, the average size of DDoS attacks surged by 69% year-over-year, with peak attacks reaching as high as 962.2 Gbps, creating unprecedented strain on networks worldwide. The report highlights end-to-end hybrid protection solutions, combining cloud scalability and on-premise responsiveness as the most effective defense against today’s diverse DDoS threats.

For companies seeking enhanced protection, Eastern’s DDoS security solutions are also available as standalone services, ensuring continuous, efficient, and worry-free operations in today’s digital landscape.

“Eastern Communications remains steadfast in advocating for a safer, more secure digital Philippines,” said Edsel Paglinawan, Eastern Communications’ Chief Revenue and Experience Officer. “Through our Cyber Defense solutions and platforms like Thoughts on Tech, we aim to empower enterprises to build digital resilience and strengthen the Philippines’ cybersecurity ecosystem. This is part of how we continue exceeding expectations and serving with malasakit.”

Eastern Communications is reiterating its position as a reliable technology partner dedicated to safeguarding the country’s digital future and assisting Filipino businesses in being connected, competitive, and secure in an increasingly AI-driven world as cyber threats continue to change.

Go to www.eastern.com.ph to find out more about Eastern Communications and its projects. or visit its Facebook page.

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

Alsons Dev to Revamp Aldevinco in Line with Davao’s Expanding Urban Growth

Aldevinco Shopping Center 2015

Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) revealed plans to start redeveloping the Aldevinco Shopping Center site by the end of October 2025. Situated at the intersection of C.M. Recto and Roxas Avenue, the property has been a well known landmark in downtown Davao for decades. The redevelopment aims to transform the historic site into a contemporary mixed use hub that fosters the city’s ongoing progress and urban renewal while preserving its rich cultural heritage.

Aldevinco Shopping Center served as one of Davao City’s earliest commercial hubs and stood as a cultural landmark for over five decades.

Established in 1965, the Aldevinco Shopping Center was among Davao City’s first commercial landmarks. For more than fifty years, it evolved from a bustling marketplace for local merchants into a cultural symbol celebrating Mindanao’s diverse heritage through its textiles, antiques, and crafts. Although it closed its doors in December 2021, its legacy lives on at Poblacion Market Central, where many of its original tenants continue to uphold the same tradition of culture, creativity, and trade.

Preparing the historic site for the future

The redeveloped property is envisioned to become a flagship mixed-use development that reflects Alsons Dev’s vision for vibrant, sustainable, and people-centric spaces.

The transformation will begin with the demolition of the buildings on the premises, a necessary step due to the structure’s age and safety considerations. The work will be carried out in sections to minimize disruption and ensure the safety of pedestrians, workers, and nearby establishments. The company is also working closely with the Office of the City Building Official (OCBO) and other relevant government agencies to ensure full compliance with local regulations.

While long-term plans are being finalized, Alsons Dev will temporarily use the 5,106-square-meter site into a paid parking facility by Q2 2026. The interim space will feature designated areas for food trucks and carts, offering convenience and new opportunities for small businesses while keeping the property active and vibrant in the heart of the city.

Looking ahead

As Aldevinco enters a new chapter, Alsons Dev reaffirms its dedication to thoughtful and sustainable development that contributes to the vitality of Davao’s urban landscape.

The aging buildings will be cleared to make way for a redevelopment that continues to cultivate Davao’s growth.

“Our vision is to build developments that balance heritage and progress, ensuring that every project we undertake supports the city’s growth. As a homegrown developer, we take pride in helping shape Davao’s evolving environment,” said Miguel A. Dominguez, President and CEO of Alsons Dev.

The company will share regular updates to keep the public informed as the redevelopment progresses. For further details, follow the official Alsons Dev Official Facebook page.