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Leading the activity were Rogelio Bilugan, President of the Samahan ng Labac Pawikan Patrollers (SLPP), 5th from right, and Mercy Grace Dionisio, AVP for Sustainability Compliance at 2GO Group, Inc., 6th from right.

2GO, the Philippines’ leading shipping and logistics solutions provider, continues to strengthen its commitment to environmental stewardship by supporting a sea turtle hatchling release activity in Naic, Cavite.

The initiative, organized with the local conservation group Samahan ng Labac Pawikan Patrollers, highlights the importance of protecting marine biodiversity and supporting community-led conservation efforts.

As part of its sustainability efforts, 2GO provided operational support to the organization through the donation of reinforced egg hatchery nets, a printer, and an office productivity software subscription. These resources help strengthen the group’s day-to-day monitoring, documentation, and protection of sea turtle nesting sites along the coast.

Mercy Grace Dionisio, AVP for Sustainability Compliance at 2GO Group, Inc., shared, “As a shipping company moving goods across the Philippines, we understand that our operations come with an environmental footprint. That is why we continue to find ways to operate more sustainably and take part in conservation efforts that protect marine life and biodiversity on which many communities rely. Through these efforts, we aim to safeguard these ecosystems as part of our service to the communities we serve and help preserve them for future generations.”

The activity culminated in the release of 70 sea turtle hatchlings into their natural habitat, a promising outcome that reflects the continued conservation efforts in the area. Each successful hatchling release helps strengthen sea turtle populations and contributes to the protection of marine biodiversity.

Beyond the hatchling release, the event also created opportunities for community engagement. Employees and volunteers participated in coastal clean-up efforts to help maintain a safe and healthy shoreline for marine life. The activity also included the formal turnover of the donated materials to support the patrollers’ ongoing conservation work.

Through partnerships with grassroots organizations such as the Samahan ng Labac Pawikan Patrollers, 2GO reinforces its role not only as a logistics solutions provider but also as a partner in initiatives that protect the environment and support local communities.

In recent years, 2GO has continued to strengthen its environmental sustainability efforts across its operations. The company has introduced packaging solutions that are almost entirely recyclable, reusable, and biodegradable, helping reduce waste across its logistics network. It has also deployed 48 electric forklifts in its warehouse operations and utilizes renewable energy in several of its logistics hubs. More recently, 2GO added two electric trucks to support its forwarding operations.

To learn more about 2GO’s sustainability efforts, visit 2go.com.ph.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com.

The Philippine Chamber of Telecommunication Operators (PCTO) hereby respectfully submits this statement of concern in light of the prevailing national energy emergency and its significant impact on the telecommunications sector.

The PCTO acknowledges the importance of the Konektadong Pinoy Act and its objectives of expanding digital connectivity for all Filipinos. However, in consideration of the extraordinary circumstances currently facing the nation, the PCTO respectfully urges all relevant government agencies and regulators to give immediate and serious attention to the following:

1.⁠ ⁠EXTENDED AND SPACED POLICY CONSULTATIONS

Given the magnitude and urgency of the national energy emergency, the PCTO requests that policy consultations pertaining to the various issues such as the access list, dig once policy, SMPF, infrastructure sharing  & cybersecurity and others related to the implementing rules under the Konektadong Pinoy Act be extended and appropriately spaced. Compressed timelines and simultaneous consultation processes place an undue burden on stakeholders whose operational capacities are presently strained. Adequate spacing of consultations will ensure that inputs are substantive, well-considered, and genuinely reflective of the entire industry stakeholders’ position.

2.⁠ ⁠DUE CONSIDERATION FOR INTERNAL OPERATIONAL AND COST PRESSURES

The ongoing national energy emergency has given rise to significant internal challenges for telecom operators, including increased operational costs, supply chain disruptions, workforce constraints, and heightened demand for essential connectivity services. The PCTO respectfully requests that regulators give due consideration to these compounding pressures when crafting and enforcing policy timelines, compliance requirements, and related obligations under the law.

3.⁠ ⁠FULL UTILIZATION OF THE ONE-YEAR SMPF PROMULGATION PERIOD

The Konektadong Pinoy Act provides a period of one (1) year for the promulgation of the Spectrum Management and Policy Framework (SMPF). The PCTO strongly appeals for the full and meaningful use of this statutory period to allow for comprehensive consultation, collaborative drafting, and thorough review among all spectrum stakeholders. Rushing the SMPF process risks producing a framework that is inadequately aligned with technical realities, market conditions, and the long-term interests of both industry and the public.

4.⁠ ⁠MORATORIUM ON POLICY ISSUANCES DURING THE CRISIS PERIOD

Considering the foregoing, the PCTO respectfully appeals that, for the duration of the ongoing national energy emergency, the Government refrain from unduly rushing the release of any circular, directive, or policy that would materially affect the telecommunications industry. A moratorium and proper extension of time for stakeholder consultations is not merely a procedural accommodation,  it is a practical necessity.

The overriding urgency at this time is to ensure that the telecommunications industry remains operational, financially viable, and fully capable of keeping critical telecom infrastructure functional and resilient. Stability in the sector is not an industry interest alone, it is a public interest, as connectivity has proven indispensable in times of national crisis.

The PCTO remains committed to working constructively with all government agencies toward the shared goal of advancing digital connectivity for every Filipino.

Modern explorers embrace travel as a fundamental way of life. They thrive on the thrill of morning coffee in a different time zone, the pursuit of a sunset on a new horizon, and the seamless transition from a high-stakes meeting to a quiet coastal retreat. Recognizing that the world serves as the ultimate destination for its members, Globe has officially signaled a new era of loyalty with the launch of the all-new Platinum GPlan featuring Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles.

This first-to-market innovation transforms the traditional mobile subscription into a continuous “passport for premium experiences,” allowing customers to earn airline Miles automatically as part of their monthly plan.

Powering Your Perspective

Globe is shifting its focus from hardware to high-flying experiences, acknowledging that Platinum members prioritize elevated perks that match their sophisticated pace. While airport lounge access remains a staple benefit, the integration of Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles offers a value proposition that grows over time. This ensures that even during months spent at home, members steadily draw closer to their next getaway.

The new portfolio acknowledges the personal nature of value, offering three distinct paths to match a member’s specific expression of their lifestyle. Options include the latest technology delivered seamlessly through curated flagship Devices, or boundless Connectivity featuring access to premium data and priority service. Those who view the world as their office and playground can instead turn their plan into an engine for Global Exploration by earning Miles.

“We are taking our commitment to the Platinum lifestyle to new heights,” said Globe Platinum Director and Head of Strategy, Experience, and Transformation Leonard Grape. “What if your connection could actually be the reason you get to travel in the first place? With the Platinum GPlan with Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles, we are ensuring that your loyalty is rewarded with the ultimate luxury: the freedom to explore.”

Seamless Experience, Continuous Rewards

In a life defined by constant movement, Globe aims to eliminate friction. This partnership with Philippine Airlines, the country’s flag carrier, ensures a seamless experience where Miles are credited directly to Mabuhay Miles accounts. These Miles can be redeemed with ease for flights, extra luggage allowance, seat upgrades, and inflight meals.

The new Platinum GPlan provides a structured path to travel through tiered monthly rewards designed for diverse journeys. Subscribers of the Platinum GPlan 3799 receive 800 Mabuhay Miles per month, while those on the Platinum GPlan 4999 earn 1,000 Mabuhay Miles. For the ultimate travel experience, the Platinum GPlan 7999 awards members 1,600 Mabuhay Miles monthly, allowing rewards to accumulate steadily toward a chosen destination.

A Gateway to the World

The Miles-enabled Platinum GPlan offers long-term value for the affluent customer who prioritizes experiences over frequent hardware upgrades. It ensures that every month of the subscription remains consistently relevant and rewarding.

“Platinum rewards your lifestyle, not just your phone,” Globe Head of Platinum Mark Pasaylo said. “Whether you are flying for a high-stakes meeting or a quiet sunset in a new city, we want you to feel that your partnership with us is truly taking you places.”

This initiative reinforces Globe Platinum’s position as a lifestyle partner, combining signature perks like airport lounge access, digital lifestyle concierge, and priority store handling with a tangible, premium path to global exploration.

For more information on the all-new Platinum GPlan with Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles, visit [https://www.globe.com.ph/help/postpaid/mabuhay-miles].

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is collaborating with Theatre Group Asia for their 2026–2027 “Season of Power,” which will feature three significant foreign and Philippine performances centered on themes of love, life, and art in an effort to provide more Filipinos with access to global creative experiences.

Through this partnership, BPI and Robinsons Bank cardholders can purchase tickets through TicketWorld and take advantage of special benefits, such as 10% off select merchandise, restaurants, and concessions inside the theater during show runs, enabling patrons to fully enjoy the theater outside of the stage.

“The arts play an important role in shaping who we are as a people—reflecting our stories, our creativity, and our shared aspirations,” said Alma Aldip, Group Head of Unsecured Lending and Cards at BPI. “Through our partnership with Theatre Group Asia, BPI is proud to help make world-class theater more accessible to Filipinos, while supporting platforms that showcase Filipino talent and strengthen our cultural identity on the global stage.”

The season opens with a return to one of musical theater’s most enduring stories about ambition, identity, and the pursuit of artistic dreams.

This March, Filipino audiences can experience Broadway in Manila with James Kirkwood and Nicholas Dante’s A Chorus Line, running March 12 to 29, 2026 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre. The production will be directed and choreographed by award-winning Filipino creative Karla Puno Garcia, featuring Philippine-based performers alongside international artists of Filipino heritage—reflecting the global footprint of Filipino talent and storytelling.

The broader “Season of Power” continues this narrative of human resilience, love, identity, and artistic expression through a lineup of globally recognized productions staged for local audiences:

• The Notebook: The Musical— International premiere, September 2026
  A story of enduring love, memory, and devotion across time, adapted from the beloved novel and film.
• Ang Tahanan ni Bernarda Alba— Philippine premiere, February 2027
  A powerful retelling of Federico García Lorca’s classic, exploring repression, family dynamics, and female agency within a traditional household.
• Stephen Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park with George— Philippine premiere, June 2027
  A meditation on art, legacy, and creative obsession, inspired by the life of painter Georges Seurat.

BPI and Robinsons Bank cardholders will have exclusive pre-sale access to these shows.

Tickets may be purchased via www.ticketworld.com.ph using BPI or Robinsons Bank credit or debit cards, while supplies last.

By supporting productions like these, BPI continues to stand behind platforms where creativity flourishes, helping bring global stories to local audiences while celebrating the artistry and passion of Filipino performers and creatives.

Download the Oh My Deals app to discover exclusive perks and offers for your next theater experience.

Visit Oh My Deals or https://www.bpi.com.ph/personal/cards/credit-cards to learn more about BPI card promotions and to benefit from special offers! app

THE National Book Development Board (NBDB) is all set for the 4th Philippine Book Festival (PBF)— the country’s only marketplace dedicated exclusively to all-Filipino books and published works, and a shared third place for publishers, writers, illustrators, readers, educators, and industry stakeholders. The festival runs from March 12 to 15, 2026 at the Megatrade Hall, 5th Floor, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

“With the continued interest we saw in the last few years, we are encouraged by the growing appreciation for Filipino stories and content,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade. “The strong public response affirms that there is a meaningful demand for books that reflect our own culture, languages, and lived experiences.”

Building on that momentum, the NBDB sees PBF 2026 as an opportunity not only to expand visitor turnout and exhibitor participation but also to strengthen access to locally produced books and learning materials. In a milestone for the festival, Day 1 (March 12) will be open to the general public for the first time, welcoming all readers alongside the Department of Education (DepEd) and its book evaluators from across the country.

Four Realms, One Rainforest

PBF 2026 reimagines its four signature realms within a rainforest-inspired setting. Aral Aklat highlights books as tools for learning and discovery, featuring textbooks and teaching guides. Booktopia invites visitors to explore the breadth of Filipino fiction and nonfiction. Kid Lit nurtures early readers through interactive, child-friendly experiences. Komiks celebrates the visual richness of Filipino comics and graphic storytelling.

This year’s lineup brings together the full spectrum of Philippine literary life. National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee, National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario, and prominent historian Ambeth Ocampo will be on hand for book signings alongside trade-book superstars Jonaxx and Ron Canimo, kidlit masters Eugene Evasco and Luis Gatmaitan, and komiks legends Manix Abrera and Pol Medina. GMA Network, together with PaperKat Books, will also launch “Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre” at PBF 2026.

Beyond the realms, the festival offers a range of spaces for connection: Lugar Lagdaan for book signings and reader-author meetups; Bahay Ilustrador for a look into the world of visual storytellers; Gubat ng Karunungan for workshops, talks, and masterclasses; the Fiesta Stage for major programming and performances; and Umpukan for informal community conversations.

The NBDB, in cooperation with the National Library of the Philippines, will also feature facsimiles of Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere, Doctrina Christiana, and Fr. Manuel Blanco’s Flora de Filipinas—rare works that anchor the festival in the Philippines’ deep literary heritage.

A highlight of the four-day run is the 43rd National Book Awards (NBA), to be held on March 14 at the Fiesta Stage. The NBA acknowledges the works of authors, illustrators, editors, translators, and publishers whose books have helped shape the country’s literary landscape.

Into the Gubat ng Karunungan

This year’s festival takes its theme from the richness underfoot and overhead: Gubat ng Karunungan, or Rainforest of Knowledge. The key visual, crafted by returning artist and designer Joffrey “Pepot” Atienza, follows two characters, Yaz and Ye-ey, as they journey through a teeming rainforest, taking in its flora, fauna, and falls.

Drawing on his daily life at the foot of Mount Banahaw in Lucban, Quezon, Atienza wove recycled paper into the artwork as a deliberate gesture: the same trees that give us paper carry the stories we tell. “Our stories, our books, and our karunungan all start here—in the biodiversity we need to protect,” he said.

A Festival Dedicated to Philippine Literature

“The Philippine Book Festival is positioned not only as a literary event but also as a third place that connects key players in the publishing and education sectors,” Aquino-Tugade said. “By convening publishers, institutional buyers, educators, and readers in a single venue, the festival supports broader efforts to improve access to quality Philippine books and sustain the local publishing industry.”

“Let’s make the Philippines not just a nation of readers, but a global powerhouse of authors and creators,” Aquino-Tugade concluded. #

Follow @nbdbphilippines (Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok) or visit books.gov.ph to learn more.

• 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/