The 9.9 oBER sa September Sulit Deals are now available! 2GO, a top logistics and marine travel company in the Philippines, is thrilled to share this news. Customers may take advantage of amazing deals and discounts on 2GO’s Express and Travel services, as well as exclusive FedEx reductions, from now until September 30.
2GO is providing 10% off on 2GO Express domestic deliveries throughout Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao (apart from the NCR) to celebrate the beginning of the ‘BER’ months. Additionally, consumers in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao (but not the NCR) can take advantage of 10% off FedEx international shipping services.
2GO has a fantastic deal for package senders within Metro Manila, with NCR to NCR shipments starting at just ₱68. Additionally, lovers of the sea can get tickets for 2GO Travel for as little as ₱199.
Customers may easily access these discounts countrywide as they are available at all 2GO locations and partner outlets. Don’t pass up these fantastic prices; stop by the 2GO store that’s closest to you right now to take advantage of these time-limited offers.
Go to your nearest 2GO store to take advantage of the 2GO 9.9 oBER sa September specials. Additionally, you can buy tickets for 2GO Travel by going to travel.2go.com.ph or by downloading the 2GO app from the Google Play Store or App Store.
For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com
Discover the abundance of Cagayan Valley’s natural riches from September 10–16, 2024, at Festival Mall Alabang in Muntinlupa City, during the 18th Padday na Lima Regional Trade Fair. “Unveiling the Richness of Cagayan Valley’s Lands and Seas, A Fusion of Beauty and Bounty” is this year’s fair theme, which features a wide range of products from the area. A wide variety of the region’s products from its varied agricultural and aquatic resources will be on display for fairgoers to enjoy.
Padday na Lima has long served as a breeding ground for the expansion of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), maximizing their full potential for economic and social development in addition to promoting goods, tourism, and investment prospects in the area. A vast range of products, including farm produce, processed foods, aquatic and fisheries products, native delicacies, garden plants, fashion and wearables, furniture, and handicrafts, are brought to the fair by one hundred MSMEs and farmers this year. Visitors will get a sense of the region’s products as well as travel and investment opportunities by visiting pavilions that highlight each of the provinces: Quirino, Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, and Nueva Vizcaya.
Providing supplementary promotion and marketing strategies for Region 2 farmers and MSMEs is at the heart of Padday na Lima. Part of this thrust is to bring together Region 2 producers and Manila-based consumers, in hopes of paving the way for sustainable and favorable partnerships. Padday na Lima is the ultimate destination for connection, commerce, and celebration without going through the arduous journey of travelling northwards to Cagayan Valley.
Padday na Lima, an Ybanag vernacular for “made by hands”, hopes to reach out and embrace fruitful unions with Manila-based advocates. Guests at the fair will be taken through a guided tour of the booths of Cagayan Valley MSMEs with a B2B matching activity for prospective endeavors between producers and consumers in Cagayan Valley and Manila. Other exciting activities at the fair will include food and wine tasting, a captivating fashion show, fun games, and a creative crafts demonstration.
However, the excitement won’t just happen during the fair; interested customers may simply access and buy the best products of Cagayan Valley with a few clicks on Mayani.ph and PaddayNaLima.com (via Deliver-E). These dependable and practical platforms provide high-quality, farm-fresh products directly to customers’ doorsteps; they eliminate the need for them to visit the fair!
At the Padday na Lima regional trade fair in September, you may indulge your wanderlust without ever leaving Manila and learn about the rich history and resources of the Cagayan Valley. With everything that Cagayan Valley has to offer, it’s easy to see why it’s such a remarkable spot that you’ll want to call home.
Only one thing can save us—Only the young (only the young)”
Taylor Swift’s “Only the Young” is an anthem that speaks to a profound and urgent reality in a time when long-lasting change can sometimes seem like a distant dream. Youth organizations are rising to the occasion and demonstrating that, after all this time, they have been the harbingers of transformation all along. The song encapsulates this generational call to action.
The TAYO Awards Foundation honored and recognized the ten most accomplished youth organizations in the following categories: Environment, Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation; Health, Wellbeing, and Human Development; Livelihood and Entrepreneurship; and Culture, Arts, and Heritage. This year’s 21st National Awarding Ceremony took place on Monday, August 19, at the Metropolitan Theater in Ermita, Manila, and is a remarkable testament to the power of youth-led initiatives.
Under the theme “Makabayani,” a blend of the words makabayan (love for one’s country) and bayani (hero), this year’s awards shine a spotlight on the extraordinary contributions of young leaders and their positive contributions to nation building.
“Ang pagsagot sa hamon para maging isang Makabayani ay nangangailangan ng malalim at totoong paniniwala at pagmamahal sa Pilipino, the Filipino is worth uniting for,” said former senator Bam Aquino during his keynote message.
TAYO 21 Awardees as Modern Day Heroes
The 21st Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) Awards Finalists posing with their trophies
For more than two decades, the TAYO Awards Foundation has recognized and honored exceptional youth organizations that embody the spirit of service and patriotism. This year’s theme encapsulates the essence of modern heroism and showcases how these youth organizations are not only driven by a love for their country, but are also actively transforming their communities with their passion projects and initiatives.
The 21st Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations Top 10 Awardees are as follows:
● Salumayag Youth Collective for Forests
Second Chance Philippines
Achieve Minarog Youth Organization
MSU – Iligan Institute of Technology Youth Chain of Peace
Sidha – San Jose City
Therawee Health Innovation Inc.
ADHIKA PH Inc.
Project Barako
Philippine Anti-Discrimination Alliance of Youth Leaders, Inc.
Negrosanon Young Leaders Institute Inc.
The Top 10 awardees and 10 finalists received a TAYO trophy by national artist, Toym Imao, as well as Php 50,000 and Php 20,000 seed grants, respectively, to help fund their ongoing projects or start new ones.
This year’s TAYO Awards Top 10 Awardees
Special Awards
Apart from the prizes received by the Top 10 accomplished youth orgs, the TAYO Foundation also gave special awards to select groups. These special awards were chosen by their partners and were given to organizations that will further their individual missions as institutions, corporate organizations, or public offices.
The Coke Barkada Award is a special recognition given to the TAYO Finalist that helps improve the well-being of communities and environment through projects that are aligned with The Coca-Cola Company’s sustainability priorities. This was awarded to Salumayag Youth Collective.
Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, Inc. (CCFPI) President Cecile Alcantara emphasizes the role of youth in national development. CCFPI has been a co-presenter of TAYO Foundation since the 5th TAYO Awards.
Meanwhile, the San Miguel’s Better World Award is given to the organization that believes in the healing power of collaboration within communities. Therawee Health Innovation, Inc. took home this award for their work in the health industry.
The third special award—The Hello, Pagkain Award—is sponsored by TAYO Founder, Kiko Pangilinan. It is a special recognition given to a youth organization that trains young people with agricultural practices and technologies that will help them become food & financially secure. This was given to the Kagay-anon Youth Network Alliance.
The fourth special award is the Bida Kabataan Award sponsored by former Senator and TAYO Co-Founder Bam Aquino. This award is given to organizations that have rightfully showcased the bravery and intelligence of the youth. The awardees are Second Chance Philippines and Iloilo National High School Boy Scouts of the Philippines Outfit 154.
Another special award is the Georgina P. Nava Leadership Award. Nava was a beloved TAYO pioneer who dedicated her whole life in service of the Filipino youth. This award was given to Sidha.
The Asia Foundation and USAID, through Youth Leadership for Democracy, or YouthLed, are the sponsors of the last special prize, the Youthled Democracy prize. Model Sangguniang Kabataan Network received this prize.
Young leaders are redefining what it means to be a hero by taking on positions that are being filled around the country. They are actively bringing about change instead of passively waiting for it to happen. These young groups are leading the way with a passion and determination that speaks to the core of our contemporary concerns, from grassroots campaigns to creative initiatives and social movements.
The digital lending segment saw the largest growth in terms of application downloads during the first half of the year.
According to new research from consumer credit agency Digido, the percentage of people in the Philippines who are 15 years of age and older who use mobile apps for financial technologies may rise to 79.5% by the end of 2024, or over 66.4 million unique users1.
It is anticipated that the Digital Commerce area will account for 34% of the growth in said adoption rate, with Digital Wallets contributing 27.2% and Digital Banking 8.6%.
Adults in the Philippines adopted fintech services on their phones at a rate of 76.2% (63.1 million unique users) between September 2018 and June 2042. During that time, 617 million downloads of fintech mobile applications were made in the nation. With 31.4% of downloads, digital commerce was the most popular industry, followed by digital wallets (21.7%) and digital loans (20.3%). Digital banking (7%), digital personal finance apps (8%), and digital payments and transfers (11.6%) made up the remaining amount.
Solely examining absolute figures during the first half of 2024, the largest growth of downloads was seen in the digital lending sector at 25.4 million, followed by digital commerce at 13.5 million and digital wallets at 12.2 million. Digital payments and transfers, digital banking and digital personal finance applications garnered 7.8 million, 6.2 million and 4 million, respectively.
On average, Digido observes that the number of downloads is constantly growing at a rate of approximately 10.26% per half year. Over the first six months of 2024, the digital banking sector experienced the highest growth rate of downloads at 22.34%, followed by digital payments and transfers (17.72%) and digital lending (16.81%).
Commenting on the analysis, Digido business development manager Rose Arreco explained: “The positive numbers seen in digital lending, digital wallets and digital commerce can be attributed to growing trust in these segments and its natural synergies with one another. As strong demand for fintech in the Philippines continues, so too Filipinos’ expectations on convenience, interoperability and improved user experience across these applications.”
“We believe that the Philippines remains on course towards widespread digitalization, with its ‘fintech-ization’ far from weakening. Collaboration within and outside of the industry remains paramount for this growth to be realized at a faster rate,” Arreco added.
A whitepaper outlining a novel strategy for reducing sugar in fruit juices was released by Tetra Pak, a global leader in processing and packaging solutions. This development is a reaction to the regulatory rules that have been put in place throughout Southeast Asia and the growing health concerns around sugar.
More than ever, consumers are turning away from high-sugar food and beverage goods and toward plant-based substitutes as a sign of growing health consciousness. As a result, in order to comply with new rules and rising consumer demands, F&B companies are now considering reformulating products to make delightful beverages like juices without relying on sugar and artificial sweeteners. This has made it difficult for the business to reduce sugar while preserving flavor and nutritional value, which has led to a lot of research and development work in this area.
The F&B sector is changing to accommodate changing consumer tastes and health regulations, which makes creative solutions more crucial than ever. Tetra Pak’s dedication to R&D guarantees that their partners have access to the most cutting-edge technologies out there.
Through controlled fermentation, Tetra Pak’s process can reduce the sugar content in juice to almost zero. This zero-sugar juice can then be blended with regular juice to achieve the desired level of sugar reduction. This innovative process ensures that the juice’s taste and nutritional quality remain intact, leveraging their well-established industry technologies.
John Jose, Marketing Director of Tetra Pak Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, and Indonesia, said “Health and regulatory trends are spurring tremendous innovation within the F&B sector. We are always on the pulse of the consumer needs and ready to help our F&B customers solve challenges with our latest technology and expertise. With our advanced fermentation process, we can cut down the sugar content in juice significantly. This process allows us to create a juice that can be blended to meet any desired level of sweetness, without compromising on taste or quality.”
The whitepaper highlights that this approach has been validated through technical and consumer tests. It opens significant opportunities for the F&B industry to develop a new category of reduced-sugar juices and drinks. It also delves into the changing consumer attitudes towards sugar, provides an in-depth overview of the fermentation process, and explores the potential of this new beverage category.
As the F&B industry evolves to meet new health standards and consumer preferences, the need for innovative solutions becomes increasingly important. Tetra Pak’s commitment to research and development ensures that their partners have access to the most innovative technologies available.
Jose added: “We have over 70 years of experience in beverage production, delivering food processing and packaging equipment around the world. Given our extensive specialist knowledge and our innovative ability to combine technology with food application expertise, we are uniquely positioned to support our F&B partners in navigating the challenges of sugar reduction. Our reliable and practical approach towards the fermentation process represents yet another advancement in the field.”
Dexter Cuajotor, BPI’s Head of Retail Loans and Bancassurance, launched the BPI MyFiesta promo last August 2 at TriNoma Mall in Quezon City.
With the nation’s home and auto loan markets steadily expanding, the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is providing Filipinos with additional options to own their ideal home, vehicle, or even motorcycle.
These debuted jointly at the Activity Center of TriNoma mall in Quezon City, Ayala Malls Capitol Central in Bacolod, and SM Downtown Premier in Cagayan De Oro during the MyFiesta event that took place last August 2-4.
Applicants for auto loans can receive reduced interest rates and waive bank fees up to Php 173,000. Additionally, through any BPI branch countrywide, they will be able to take advantage of low downpayment options, All-In Financing, and free bank fees of up to Php 30,000.
At the event that took place, BPI once again showed their festive celebration. We enjoyed the different booths that have been displayed and also the different tokens that have been given. It really feels like the true spirit of fiesta celebration with them.
For Housing Loan applicants, clients can enjoy a 7% interest rate fixed for 7 years, and free bank fees of Php 7k for every Php 1-million loan amount (capped at Php 173,000).
Clients will automatically earn 100,000 BPI Rewards Points via BPI Vybe for any Auto or Housing Loan application via BPI Loans Marketplace. The VYBE points can be used to redeem rewards from over 200 partner merchants.
The promos apply to Auto Loan and Housing Loan applications made from August 1 to September 30 this year.
For Motorcycle Loan applications from August 1 to the end of 2024, clients will get monthly amortization discounts when they pay on time. The discounts that will be applied are Php 500 per month for a 12-month loan term, Php 600 per month for a 24-month loan term, and Php 700 per month for a 36-month loan term. This promo for the BPI Motorcycle Loan is exclusive to motorcycle units of Premiumbikes and Summit Superbikes dealerships.
BPI MyFiesta showcased the bank’s partnerships with car brands, property developers, motorcycle dealers, insurance providers, and sustainable financing partners. The collaboration makes possible the provision of mileages through BPI Auto Loan, Housing Loan, and Motorcycle Loan.
“The event’s theme seamlessly integrated physical and digital experiences (phygital), strategically engaging customers in a personalized and immersive way. This approach aimed to forge a deeper connection with Filipinos, supporting them on their journey to achieve their personal aspirations,” said Dexter Cuajotor, Head of Retail Lending and Bancassurance, BPI.
My Fiesta was centered around three main themes: community, celebration, and customization. Beyond the event itself, personalization was also applied to the goods and services provided. Cuajotor continued, “We understand that every Filipino has different goals, and BPI is dedicated to supporting them in achieving their #LifeGoals.”
A celebration of community, individualization, and fun, BPI MyFiesta gave Filipinos the opportunity to own the vehicle, house, motorcycle, and more of their dreams! The following partner brands had booths at the event: Premiumbikes and Summit Superbikes for motorcycle loans; Cubo Modular Inc. and Greenery Solar for sustainable financing partners; Toyota, Mitsubishi, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, BYD, Nissan, Honda, Isuzu, Geely, MG, Jetour, and GAC for auto loans; and Avida, Amaia, DMCI, RLC, Juanito King, JECO, ML&D, A Brown Company Inc., Italpinas Development Corporation, and Pueblo de Oro Corporation for housing loans.
APF Cebu organizes Mangrove Planting: Sustaining the Environment, Marching on to 2030
Eat Well, Live Well Towards a Better Tomorrow: Over 100 Ajinomoto employees in Cebu planted 1,200 mangrove trees in Barangay Day-as, Cordova, Cebu, in celebration of its 20th anniversary.
Flavor Food Inc. Ajinomoto Philippines Inc. Cebu, also known as APF Cebu, commemorates its 20 years!
APF Cebu held a mangrove tree planting event with the theme “Mangrove Planting: Sustaining the Environment, Marching on to 2030” to commemorate the company’s expansion and changes since its founding in 2004. This project, which honors 20 years of excellence in the food business, is a tribute to APF Cebu’s dedication to sustainability and community engagement.
1,200 mangrove saplings were planted by more than a hundred APF Cebu workers who joined the Fisher Folk Organization of Barangay Day-as in Cordova, Cebu. This is to recognize the significant role these trees play in preventing erosion along our shorelines. By offering homes for aquatic creatures, they also improve the biodiversity of the regions.
Led by APC Group President Mr. Koichi Ozaki, Vice President Mr. Makoto Tanabe, APF Bulacan Factory Director Mr. Juanito Ramos Jr. and APF Cebu Factory Manager Mr. Teodoro Wong Jr., a total of 1,200 pieces of mangroves were planted. This is a significant number to help strengthen the coastal ecosystem restoration of Barangay Day-as.
WIN-WIN partnership: APF Cebu employees joined the Fisher Folk Organization of Barangay Day-as in Cordova, Cebu to strengthen the coastal ecosystem restoration of the area.
Last year, APF Cebu also conducted a similar planting activity in another strategic location in Cebu. This was done in Barangay Calawisan in Lapu-Lapu City, where the saplings have now shown significant growth as they have established strong roots in the coastal soil. This year’s mangrove planting is another promising activity that will be sustained through continuous monitoring to add to the number of the existing mangroves in these areas.
TEAMWORK: APF Cebu employees are all smiles while they plant together to fulfill the company’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement as they march on to Roadmap 2030.
Following the outdoor event, the APF Cebu headquarters hosted a mass of appreciation to show the company’s gratitude for 20 years of consistent and successful operations. Following mass, there was a formal program that featured remarks of inspiration and congratulations from Ajinomoto Philippines’ top management. This occasion was made even more joyous by the participation of talented employees and the sharing of anecdotes from long-tenured Ka-Aji’s (a name affectionately used by Ajinomoto Philippines employees to refer to their colleagues).
In order to achieve Roadmap 2030, APF Cebu will keep pursuing expansion, stable operations, participation in environmental initiatives, and community outreach while consistently delivering high-quality goods that uphold Ajinomoto’s motto of Eat Well, Live Well!
Looking back on Rosie Dominguez’s legacy after stepping down from her role as Executive Vice President for Alsons Development and Investment Corporation.
Leading real estate developer in Davao City, Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), has been led by Rosie A. Dominguez for more than 30 years. In addition to propelling the business to new heights, her devotion, strategic vision, and unshakable commitment to excellence have also greatly changed the local environment and improved Davao’s quality of life.
It is appropriate to reflect on Rosie’s outstanding accomplishments and her enduring influence on Alsons Dev as she steps down as Executive Vice President.
A legacy of pioneering developments
Ladislawa Garden Village, one of Rosie’s earliest achievements, stands as a key milestone in Davao’s real estate history, being the city’s first gated subdivision with leisure amenities.
Rosie’s tenure is highlighted by groundbreaking projects that have transformed residential living in Davao. A major milestone was the relaunch of the company’s initial residential project, Ladislawa, into Ladislawa Garden Village. This project was Davao’s first themed residential community and the city’s first subdivision with country club facilities, setting a high standard for future developments.
From 1994 to 2010, Alsons Dev built a reputation for exceptional living spaces by incorporating community-centric designs. Projects like Woodridge Park, Las Terrazas, Northcrest, Fernwood, Wood Lane, and Eden Ridge established the company as a leader in creating high-quality residential environments.
In 2013, Rosie led the development of Northtown, a vibrant township designed to meet the city’s evolving needs. This was followed in 2016 by the introduction of a new mid-cost housing brand, Nurtura Land and Home, with Narra Park Residences as the maiden project.
The country’s first integrated emergency response facility, the Public Safety and Security Complex in Northtown Center, Cabantian, is a pioneering project donated to the City Government of Davao in 2016 that was especially close to Rosie’s heart.
The 2022 launch of Poblacion Market Central further diversified the company’s portfolio and enhanced the local shopping and dining experience. Poblacion is the new home of the shops from the Aldevinco Shopping Center, Alsons Dev’s pioneering shopping center that operated from 1965 to 2021.
Expanding beyond Davao, Alsons Dev also ventured into Alabel, Sarangani in 2023 with the launch of a master-planned, mixed-use township, Avia Estate, and Narra Park Residences Avia.
Celebrating Success and Excellence
Exceptional communities like Narra Park Residences have been recognized by national real estate award-giving bodies, cementing Alsons Dev as one of Davao’s leading real estate developers.
Rosie’s exceptional leadership didn’t go unnoticed, as Alsons Dev earned numerous recognitions under her guidance. From 2020 onwards, the company was named one of the top real estate developer partners at the BPI Partners Appreciation Night, honored as one of the top local developers in terms of title delivery and production.
Additionally, Narra Park Residences and Northtown Residences both received accolades from the 11th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards and The Outlook 2023: Philippine Real Estate Awards by Lamudi, further demonstrating the company’s versatility and excellence in the real estate sector.
Passing the Torch
Rosie’s influence extends beyond projects and awards. Her dedication has been key to establishing Alsons Dev as the leading real estate developer in Davao City, fostering a strong organization poised for continued success.
Rosie Dominguez (center) is joined by Miguel Dominguez, Alsons Dev’s new President and CEO (second from bottom left), and the company’s top executives. Under Rosie’s leadership, the team thrived, building a foundation of trust and collaboration that elevated Alsons Dev to new milestones.
Reflecting on her career, Rosie shared, “It’s been an incredible journey working alongside talented individuals to build Alsons Dev and positively impact Davao. Together, we’ve created thriving communities and a strong sense of belonging. I’m confident that our team will keep excelling and enhancing the lives of Mindanaoans for years to come.”
As Rosie retires, her son, Miguel Rene A. Dominguez, takes the helm as the new President and CEO of Alsons Dev. The young Dominguez has previously held various key roles within the Alcantara Group group of companies, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to his new position.
Hand-in-hand for environmental conservation. Present in the Memorandum of Agreement signing were (from left to right)Sto. Tomas City, Batangas Mayor Atty. Arth Jhun Marasigan, PCPPI Chief Environmental, Social and Governance Officer Atty. Carina Bayon, and City Environment and Natural Resources Office Head Engineer Eric Velasco.
The Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) and the local government of Sto became parties to a Memorandum of Agreement signed by Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI), the official maker and distributor of PepsiCo products in the nation. The corporation has committed to long-term environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices by using Tomas, Batangas for the Adopt-A-River Program.
Through this relationship, the Southern Tagalog Region Operations (STRO) team of PCPPI will strengthen efforts to involve the community and maintain cleanliness and obstruction-free Dipangla Creek. The aforementioned watercourse runs 300 meters through Brgy. San Miguel, close to the STRO facility in Sto. Tomas.
“The partnership to protect the Dipangla Creek through the Adopt-A-River Program is an essential part of our commitment to promote responsible water stewardship across our operations. This is aligned with our goal to create a positive impact on society with programs focused on responsible and ethical operations, employee and community empowerment, and environmental sustainability,” said PCPPI Chief Environmental, Social and Governance Officer Atty. Carina Bayon.
PCPPI will ensure the weekly deployment of team members to conduct the collection of solid wastes, maintenance, and upkeep of the project area. It will also monitor the execution of weekly cleaning, overgrown vegetation cutting, and collection of accumulated residual and non-residual garbage along the river stream. Furthermore, PCPPI will put up vertical gardens along the Dipangla Creek stream in support of the enhanced National Greening Program.
Aside from the Adopt-A-River Program, PCPPI STRO has been actively supporting other environmental initiatives led by LLDA and the Sto. Tomas LGU through the years. In September 2021, STRO provided assistance to the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) during the cleanup activity held along San Juan River traversing Brgy. San Vicente.
In July 2022, STRO took part in the National Arbor Day Tree Planting Activity of the Sto to commemorate PCPPI’s anniversary. A Certificate of Appreciation for the donation of 200 narra tree seedlines was also given to the plant by Tomas CENRO. Furthermore, STRO provided backing for CENRO’s “Operasyon Linis Ilog” initiative, which was held in June 2023 to commemorate Philippine Environment Month.
“PCPPI will continue to strengthen our partnerships with the local government and other key community stakeholders to further our environmental sustainability commitments and contribute to the development of the towns and cities where we operate,” Atty. Bayon added.
Please visit www.pepsiphilippines.com for additional information about Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines and its community and environmental activities.
Eastern Communications Team (From L to R: Regional Sales Division Head Anthony Co, AVP & Head of Marketing Jed Estanislao, Executive Account Manager Deo Nazareno, and Segment Marketing Head Gian Conde) at a courtesy visit with Cebu’s Acting City Mayor Atty. Raymond Garcia
Deploying dependable internet access and digitalization has become imperative for local governments as the Philippines experiences a digital revolution. A prime example of this endeavor is the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN), which seeks to improve the country’s digital infrastructure.
Cebu City Government gets dedicated internet speed boost from Eastern Communications
The Philippines’ innovative ICT solutions provider and telecommunications company, Eastern Communications, has established alliances with local government organizations all around the nation. They hope to stimulate economic growth by improving the nation’s digital connectivity and network infrastructure through the cooperative PDSCN initiative.
Connecting Regions Through the PDSCN The PDSCN is a joint initiative between Eastern Communications, Globe Group, and InfiniVAN Inc. with long-term goals of fostering economic growth and bridging the digital divide. Once completed, it will span over 2,500 kilometers of fiber cables across the Philippines. This robust network is designed to revolutionize internet reliability and resiliency.
This advanced infrastructure is set to catalyze economic growth and digital transformation in previously underserved and unserved regions. With the PDSCN Express Route now operational, Eastern plans to expand its connectivity network to cater to key business regions such as Iloilo, Davao, Bohol, Boracay, Cagayan de Oro, Bacolod, and Dumaguete. Eastern formally launched and made its services available in Tagbilaran, Bohol through its signature expansion event, Via Eastern, in July 2024.
As local governments harness the potential of reliable internet and embrace digitalization, they are able to deliver improved public services, enhanced communication, and sustainable economic development. The PDSCN is not just about connectivity; it’s about empowering communities and driving the Philippines towards a more inclusive and prosperous future.
Fortifying Connectivity in Cebu The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported a 7.3 percent economic growth in Central Visayas for 2023, raising its GDP to P1.381.2 trillion. Metro Cebu is the region’s top contributor, and is also a main driver of the Philippines as a frontrunner in the ASEAN region, achieving the highest growth of 5.7% in the first quarter of 2024. This economic surge, fueled by tourism and business programs, increases the demand for better internet connectivity. It also supports Cebu City’s goal of becoming a technologically advanced, inclusive, and resilient urban center.
Official contract signing ceremony of Eastern Communications’ team with Cebu IT Office representatives
Eastern Communications is empowering the local government of Cebu with its premium Internet Direct Service (IDS), a dedicated high-speed connectivity solution. Eastern’s IDS boasts robust and reliable connectivity revolutionizing communication, data exchange, and collaboration, bolstering Cebu City’s economic development and ensuring efficient governance.
“The recent partnership between Eastern Communications and the Cebu local government offices is a significant step toward enhancing digital infrastructure and connectivity within the city,” said Cebu’s Acting City Mayor Atty. Raymond Garcia. “Advocating for better internet connectivity aligns with Cebu City’s vision of a technologically advanced, inclusive, and resilient urban center.” Cebu local government’s Management Information and Computer Services (MICS) team also noted how improved connectivity aligns with the Cebu government’s goals and initiatives which promotes technological advancement and digitalization:
Enhanced Public Services: Reliable internet connectivity enables citizens to access government services online, pay bills, and apply for permits seamlessly. Digitalization of administrative processes reduces paperwork, enhances transparency, and improves overall efficiency.
Community Inclusion: Improved internet access bridges gaps between urban and rural areas while providing free or affordable internet in public spaces through Community Wi-Fi promotes social inclusion and connectivity for all.
Data-Driven Decision-Making: Digitalization generates valuable data on traffic, utilities, and public services, informing policy decisions and urban planning. Sharing data with the public encourages innovation, collaboration, and community engagement.
Beyond connectivity, Eastern’s services streamline the local government’s operations and optimize digital processes. The service helps the Cebu LGU in e-governance, fostering community inclusion, and leveraging data-driven decision-making for smart city solutions.
Boosting Negros Occidental’s Tourism and Emergency Response
Negros Occidental enjoys robust connectivity and personalized services from Eastern Communications
Through the PDSCN, Eastern Communications now serves the local government of Negros Occidental in Western Visayas. In 2023, the province recorded a significant tourism revenue of P6 billion, marking a 36% increase in tourist arrivals from the previous year. As the municipality focuses on tourism growth, Eastern is committed to providing robust and reliable internet to support the government’s day-to-day operations and reinforce safety and communications during emergencies and natural disasters. “We have been using Eastern Communications’ internet services in our office for the past months and have always been satisfied with its speed performance and no disconnection,” said Province of Negros Occidental OIC-ICTD Jose Larry Sañor. “They offer the most competitive rates and after-sales support to our company is great. I’m happy to recommend their services,” he added.
Connecting the Nation
Eastern Communications is an essential ICT solutions partner for local businesses in the Philippines, helping them to develop digitalization in line with government plans as the country becomes more connected and digital first. During President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s most recent State of the Nation Address (SONA), when Eastern played a crucial role as a connectivity provider, the telecom’s support was made clear. The House of Representatives Complex received 10 GBPs worth of Internet Direct Service (IDS) from the telecom during the SONA 2024. Ensuring the success of the event and helping Eastern connect Filipinos from all across the country was made possible by providing support for the connection needs during this period
