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Sterling Bank of Asia employees take part in the “Kind Heart Gives” tree planting activity at La Mesa Eco Park in Quezon City

Sterling Bank of Asia (SBA) once again demonstrated its commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement through this year’s “Kind Heart Gives” tree-planting initiative held at La Mesa Eco Park in Quezon City. The event brought together employees from various organizations who joined SBA in its corporate social responsibility efforts, underscoring the Bank’s shared mission to make a positive impact on both the environment and the community.

The activity went beyond simply planting trees—it fostered camaraderie, teamwork, and a sense of collective purpose among SBA employees. It encouraged participants to take part in meaningful initiatives that advocate for a sustainable future. “Our ‘Kind Heart Gives’ activity reflects Sterling Bank of Asia’s support for sustainability and our values of being socially active in good causes,” said Dan Guevara, SBA’s Center for Learning Head and First Vice President. “We are proud to see our employees engage in projects that go beyond the workplace—efforts that show our dedication to both people and the planet.”

As SBA continues to grow as a financial institution, it remains steadfast in its commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen. Through initiatives like “Kind Heart Gives,” employees contribute not only to environmental restoration but also to strengthening SBA’s culture of compassion, volunteerism, and shared responsibility.

REX proudly receives two awards at the 47th CMMA Awards: *Best Children’s Magazine* for The Bread Basket and *Best Editorial Cartoon* for the Sinag/The Catalyst piece “Mass Deportation of Undocumented Filipinos in the US.” Photo credit to Catholic Mass Media Award

Rex Education achieved another significant milestone with two major recognitions at the 47th Catholic Mass Media Awards held on November 19, 2025 at the Citystate Hotel Tower in Ermita, Manila. The awards highlight the organization’s ongoing commitment to producing educational content that informs, inspires, and nurtures the mind and the heart of every Filipino learner.

REX received the Best Children’s Magazine award for The Bread Basket and Best Editorial Cartoon award for the piece published in Sinag/The Catalyst titled “Mass Deportation of Undocumented Filipinos in the US.” These honors emphasize the importance of educational materials that blend academic relevance with creative and responsible storytelling and meaningful social reflection.

In the field of education, values-driven and thoughtfully crafted media remain essential in helping learners understand themselves, their communities, and the world around them. Publications such as The Bread Basket support children in developing empathy and curiosity through stories that speak to their experiences. Editorial works like the award-winning cartoon in Sinag/The Catalyst encourage students to think critically about current issues in ways that are clear and accessible. These contributions uplift, guide, and help build character of young readers toward becoming informed and responsible citizens.

These recognitions serve as a quiet but powerful affirmation of the work that happens every day within REX’s creative and editorial teams. Behind each publication are authors, editors, illustrators, and partners who approach their craft with purpose and a deep understanding of the role education plays in shaping learners and communities. Their passion allows REX to produce content that inspires curiosity, encourages reflection, and fosters conversations that lead to growth.

The Catholic Mass Media Awards have long recognized media that uplifts, guides, and forms values, and to be counted among its honorees reinforces REX’s commitment to continually raise the standard of learning materials in the Philippines and to contribute to the development of content that strengthens values formation.

REX extends its heartfelt thanks to the Catholic Mass Media Awards for this recognition and to the entire REX community whose dedication makes achievements like these possible. As the organization continues to grow, it remains steadfast in its mission to empower Filipino learners and help shape a future rooted in truth, compassion, and lifelong learning.

• In the Philippines, many homes and buildings still use outdated electrical systems with common issues like overloaded circuits and undersized wiring causing fire risks and property damage.
• Recognized globally as the World’s Most Sustainable Company, Schneider Electric leverages over 30 years of industry experience in the Philippines to strengthen buildings’ electrical foundation by providing smarter, scalable design solutions that improve safety, ensure efficiency, and protect long-term property value.
• The company urges homeowners, developers, and property managers to rethink electrical safety and build a safer, more resilient power infrastructure for Filipino communities.

Schneider Electric powers safer, smarter, and more efficient electrical systems in the Philippines protecting businesses and homes from fire risks while improving energy use.

In the Philippines, electrical systems that have not kept up with contemporary safety requirements are frequently blamed for fire occurrences. As fire risks associated with inadequate electrical infrastructure continue to rise, Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy technology, is advising developers, engineers, and property stakeholders to improve their approach to electrical design by emphasizing safety, scalability, and reliability.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has recognized overloaded circuits, undersized wiring, and dangerous installations like “octopus connections” as serious fire threats. Many homes and buildings still rely on antiquated or poorly built electrical systems. The BFP reported over 1,800 more fire incidents in 2024 alone than in 2023. Energy demand is exceeding the capacity of many current systems due to increased appliance use and hybrid work arrangements.

In response, Schneider Electric identifies five critical elements local businesses, developers, and homeowners must prioritize to build safe and resilient electrical infrastructure across residential, commercial, and industrial spaces:

4. Circuit protection and system reliability
   Modern households and businesses use high-demand equipment such as air conditioners, water heaters and computing devices including servers, computers, or gaming consoles, that need dedicated circuit breakers to prevent overloads and fire risk. To reduce these risks, Schneider Electric urges developers to use automatic circuit breakers that quickly detect and stop faults, preventing fires, electric shocks, and damage while ensuring a safe, stable power supply. Its solutions—such as the Easy9, EasyPact EZC, and MVS circuit breaker ranges—are engineered to respond swiftly to electrical faults, helping safeguard residential, commercial, and industrial spaces by minimizing fire risks and preventing costly damage.
5. Backup power for business continuity
   Power outages continue to cause daily losses ranging from PHP 10,000 to PHP 30,000 per day for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in key urban centers, while large businesses incur 100,000 in revenue losses daily, according to consumer advocacy group ILAW—disrupting operations, damaging equipment, and threatening long-term profitability. To reduce these impacts, Schneider Electric emphasizes the need for uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems such as the APC Easy UPS and Easy UPS On–Line that provide businesses with automatic battery backup and surge protection for critical equipment, ensuring operations remain online during outages or power fluctuations.
6. Real-time energy monitoring
   In early 2024, the Department of Energy reported₱400 million in electricity and fuel savings through energy efficiency programs, highlighting the potential of real-time monitoring for economic and environmental gains. To support similar outcomes, Schneider Electric offers solutions like the Power Monitoring Expert that supports energy optimization by providing real-time insights, live alerts, carbon tracking, and water, air, gas, electricity, steam (WAGES) data compatibility to help businesses detect inefficiencies, control costs, and make informed decisions.
7. Durable, modern switches and sockets
   In early 2025, the Department of Trade and Industry seized over ₱134 million worth of uncertified electrical productsdue to safety risks like fire and electrocution. Schneider Electric highlights the importance of using certified, durable, and heat-resistant components. Solutions like AvatarOn A offer safer, more reliable switches and sockets with child-proof shutters, universal sockets, convenient USB ports, and durable materials that stay secure and resist wear.
8. Scalable, sustainable power

As businesses go digital, data centers must scale quickly while ensuring uptime, efficiency, and cost control. To meet rising power demands without downtime, many are turning to flexible systems that can easily expand as their needs increase. Schneider Electric supports this shift with solutions like the Easy UPS 3-Phase Modular,  which has a live swap feature that allows users to add and replace power modules without business downtime—helping them scale efficiently, improve safety, and grow sustainably. The result is a smarter, more agile approach to powering the digital economy.

“Electrical systems, when properly designed, prevent hazards, protect both people and properties, and strengthen the infrastructure needed to support business continuity, community safety, and the country’s national development,” said Harold Lim, Country Solutions Head of Schneider Electric Philippines.

Schneider Electric continues to spearhead efforts to create innovative power solutions that create safer, more energy-resilient power infrastructure for Filipino communities. The company has over 30 years of experience in the Philippines and has been named the World’s Most Sustainable Company by Time Magazine and Statista.

Representatives from Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines (CCFPI), Central Philippine University (CPU), and the Iloilo City Government attended the orientation session for the new Solid Waste Management Information System (SWM-IS) under Project AGUBAY.

The City Environment Office (CENRO) reports that Iloilo City, which is home to around 500,000 people, is experiencing an increasing garbage problem. Every day, the city produces over 314 metric tons of rubbish, of which roughly 40% is plastic. Project AGUBAY, a first-of-its-kind data-driven Solid Waste Management Information System (SWM-IS) covering 180 barangays, was initiated by Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines Inc. (CCFPI), Central Philippine University (CPU), and the Iloilo City Government in order to solve this pressing issue.

Awareness, Guidance, Unity, Biodiversity, Action, and Yield are all represented by the project’s name, AGUBAY, which is taken from an Ilonggo phrase meaning “to support, to guide, to help.” This is in line with its goal of providing communities with the information and resources they need to develop more environmentally friendly waste management strategies.

Addressing Iloilo City’s waste challenge

Iloilo City’s waterways and coastal areas have long been vulnerable to plastic pollution, worsened by the surge in single-use plastics during the COVID-19 pandemic. With nearly half a million residents across 180 barangays, including 26 situated in riverine and coastal areas, inefficient collection systems and non-functional material recovery facilities (MRFs) have left waterways vulnerable to pollution.

“This project aims to ensure no barangay is left behind in the city’s fight against waste,” said Cecile Alcantara, President of Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines Inc. “By investing in digital tools and community empowerment, Project AGUBAY shows how collaboration between business, academia, and local government can turn sustainability goals into real, on-the-ground progress.”

Smarter, Faster Waste Solutions

At the heart of Project AGUBAY is the Solid Waste Management Information System (SWM-IS) — a centralized digital platform that generates real-time reports to help barangays and the city government:

• Formulate and update Barangay Ecological Solid Waste Management (BESWM) Programs in 152 barangays.
• Build a centralized SWM database for stronger city-wide monitoring and governance.
• Deploy Barangay Material Recovery System (BMRS) equipment to improve segregation, collection, and diversion.
• Train barangay leaders and city stakeholders in implementing sustainable waste solutions.

“Each barangay has unique waste challenges. With real-time data, we can design solutions that truly fit community needs — saving time, resources, and strengthening accountability,” said Dr. Mary O’ Penetrante, Project Team Lead from CPU.

Empowering Communities, Strengthening Partnerships

Through the SWM-IS, barangay officials are now equipped to track and electronically report their waste management programs, while the City General Services Office can respond more quickly to barangay needs. This digital shift promotes stronger accountability, transparency, and collaboration across the city.

Barangay officials from Iloilo City undergo digital training to familiarize themselves with the SWM IS, equipping them with tools to track, report, and improve waste management practices in their communities.

With the new system in place, Iloilo’s General Services Office can respond more effectively to barangay needs, while barangays themselves are empowered to draft, update, and electronically report their waste management programs. The result is a stronger partnership between barangays and the city, promoting accountability and scalability for future adoption.

Beyond Iloilo: A Model for Other Cities

Project AGUBAY expects to be turned over to the Iloilo City Government by January 2026, to help ensure sustainability beyond the grant period. Its potential success could pave the way for adoption in other cities, especially as barangays improve digital literacy and adapt the system to their local contexts.

“‘This program demonstrates Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines Inc.’s commitment to collective action’ to support improved collection and recycling infrastructure, such as working with local barangays to better understand how we can improve waste collection, sorting and recycling.”

Go to https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/brands/coca-cola/sustainable to learn more about Coca-Cola’s sustainability initiatives

Learn more at www.coca-cola.com/ph/ and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

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.

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.”

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.

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.

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.