News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Haraya Residences as seen from above, situated along C5 and Ortigas Avenue Extension

Metro Manila continues to transform, and at the core of its next wave of urban expansion is one key thoroughfare: C5. Once seen merely as an alternative to EDSA, it has evolved into a dynamic growth corridor—supporting major infrastructure developments, flourishing business hubs, and thoughtfully planned communities. At the forefront of this evolution stands Haraya Residences, a contemporary vertical gated village located within Bridgetowne Destination Estate in Pasig City.

C5: A Strategic Urban Spine

Stretching along the eastern side of Metro Manila, C5 links key cities including Pasig, Mandaluyong, Taguig, Makati, and Quezon City. Its strategic importance lies not just in its reach, but in how it connects everyday life—bringing homes closer to workplaces, schools, hospitals, and leisure destinations.

Over the years, the corridor has attracted large-scale developments, positioning C5 as one of the metro’s most dynamic and in-demand addresses. As connectivity improves through expanded road networks and public transport, it continues to support convenient city living while reinforcing the long-term value of real estate properties in well-connected locations.

Seamless Connectivity Across Metro Manila

C5 functions as one of Metro Manila’s most important mobility corridors, offering access to major expressways including SLEX, Skyway, and CAVITEX, with the future NLEX–C5 Link set to further strengthen its north–south connectivity. From Haraya Residences, this translates into more efficient travel to key business districts, residential communities, and lifestyle hubs across the metro.

Its direct connection to SLEX, via the C5–SLEX interchange and Skyway access points, allows convenient travel toward Makati, Muntinlupa, Laguna, and Batangas, making both daily commutes and weekend trips to the south more time-efficient.

On the southern end, the CAVITEX–C5 Link Expressway extends C5 toward Cavite and Las Piñas, reducing travel time to emerging residential areas and key transport gateways.

Looking ahead, the completion of the NLEX–C5 Link will provide a seamless route to northern growth areas such as Bulacan and Pampanga, offering residents greater flexibility and mobility without heavy reliance on inner-city roads.

Living Within Bridgetowne Destination Estate

Haraya Residences enjoys a prime position within Bridgetowne Destination Estate, a thoughtfully master-planned mixed-use community designed as a complete urban destination. Here, residential living is integrated with offices, hotels, retail spaces, open areas, and lifestyle destinations, creating a well-balanced and vibrant environment.

Connectivity within Bridgetowne is set to improve further with the completion of the MRT-4 line, with Tiendesitas and Rosario Stations located nearby. Plans for a future ferry station within the estate will add another layer of accessibility, supporting a more connected and multi-modal lifestyle.

Close to What Matters Most

Living along the C5 corridor places Haraya Residences near key institutions across Metro Manila. Schools and universities in Pasig, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, and Taguig are easily accessible, making school runs more manageable for families. Leading hospitals and medical centers are also located along or near C5, providing residents with quick access to quality healthcare.

Surrounded by major business hubs such as Ortigas Center, Bonifacio Global City, Eastwood City, and Makati Central Business District, the location supports shorter commutes and improved work-life balance.

Haraya Residences elevates modern city living as an upscale vertical gated village situated in the heart of Bridgetowne Estate, Pasig. Designed with the refined urban homeowner in mind, the two-tower project features one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes, with select units offering the added privacy of their own dedicated lift. It harmoniously integrates architecture, greenery, and smart design—showcasing adaptable, light-filled interiors with generous loggias, thoughtfully curated indoor and outdoor amenities, and spaces that encourage both personal retreat and shared experiences. Drawing inspiration from the Filipino word “haraya,” which means imagination, Haraya Residences introduces a fresh vision of living—one that values comfort, connection, and well-being while keeping pace with the dynamic flow of contemporary city life.

Experience elevated living at the center of Bridgetowne, Pasig City. Welcome to Haraya Residences. To learn more, visit www.harayaresidences.com or follow @harayaresidences on Instagram and @harayaresidencesofficial on Facebook.

Key representatives from Eastern Communications and Shangri-La Mactan came together during the contract signing that formalized Eastern as the resort’s official internet and ICT service provider. In photo are Anthony Co, Head of Sales – Regional Operations Group, Eastern Communications; Edsel Paglinawan, Chief Revenue & Innovation Officer, Eastern Communications; Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator, Eastern Communications; Jaeson Evangelista, Co-Coordinator, Eastern Communications;Dave Junker, General Manager, Shangri-La Mactan; and Lourdes Dagat, Financial Controller, Shangri-La Mactan

Eastern Communications and Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu have officially sealed a strategic partnership through a formal contract signing, appointing Eastern as the resort’s exclusive provider of internet and ICT services. This alliance represents a major step forward in enhancing the digital backbone of one of Cebu’s most renowned island resorts, highlighting how exceptional hospitality today relies on equally robust digital connectivity.

Starting January 2026, Eastern Communications will deliver 1000 Mbps of its Internet Direct Service (IDS) to Shangri-La Mactan, powering both guest digital experiences and internal resort operations. Tailored for large enterprises, Eastern IDS offers a premium dedicated connection with a 1:1 contention ratio, ensuring dependable, stable, and high-performance internet access—even during peak demand.

In the hospitality sector, especially in regional and island destinations, dependable high-speed internet is a necessity in daily operations. From seamless guest check-ins and uninterrupted in-room connectivity to operational systems that support service excellence, safety, and efficiency, connectivity plays a central role in shaping the modern resort experience. Through this partnership, Shangri-La Mactan enhances its ability to deliver a smooth, digitally enabled stay that meets the expectations of today’s always-connected travelers. According to the Department of Tourism (DoT), Cebu is listed among the top travel destinations in the country and its capital city drew in 102,124 visitors during the holiday break. This surge was just ahead of Lapu-Lapu City hosting the 45^th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Tourism Forum this January.

“Providing an exceptional guest experience means ensuring that connectivity is effortless and reliable throughout the resort,” said Dave Junker, General Manager of Shangri-La Mactan. “By working with Eastern Communications, we are strengthening our digital capabilities in a way that supports both our guests and our teams, allowing us to consistently deliver the exceptional service Shangri-La is known for.”

The collaboration reinforces Eastern Communications’ position as a trusted connectivity partner for enterprises that require robust infrastructure and dependable, personalized support. Bringing enterprise-grade connectivity to a premier island resort demonstrates the telco provider’s commitment to enabling businesses to operate at their best—regardless of location.

“Connectivity is fundamental to how businesses serve their customers and how guests experience a destination,” said Anthony Co, Head of Sales – Regional Operations Groupof Eastern Communications. “Our partnership with Shangri-La Mactan reflects our commitment to ensure reliable, high-quality internet and digital services to businesses in areas that have high growth potential.”

The partnership reflects a shared vision of helping organizations reach beyond boundaries. As businesses across the country continue to evolve, Eastern Communications remains committed to empowering its partners to move forward with confidence and to dare to soar by building on strong digital foundations supported by responsive, human-centered service.

As Eastern Communications grows throughout the Philippines, its collaboration with Shangri-La Mactan demonstrates the company’s ongoing commitment to providing top-tier businesses with cutting-edge connectivity solutions, demonstrating that digital excellence can flourish even in island locations.

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

For many Filipino families, huge dreams like a bigger automobile or a new home are typically accompanied by a lot of hesitation. These milestones patiently wait in the “someday” box due to financial uncertainty and hesitancy because it feels difficult to take the initial step.

Metrobank fills this gap by reintroducing the Goals Made Real promotion from February 16 to May 29, 2026, which gives families affordable, value-driven house and auto loan options so they may move forward with confidence.

If you put off saving for a house for ten years, your family would be without the security and stability they may already have. Putting up with lengthy, taxing journeys means forfeiting time and energy that could be used at home. Loans provide breathing room when handled properly; they don’t increase tension.

That’s where Metrobank steps in. It takes on the heavy lifting so families can confidently move from “someday” to “now.” If you’ve been waiting for a sign to finally secure that home or get that car, this is it.

With Goals Made Real, borrowers who apply under this promo can enjoy:

• Low Interest Rates to keep monthly payments predictable and easier to manage.
• Waived Fees that will givesavings of up to PHP 60,000, which means you have extra funds for other related expenses such as home appliances or accessorizing your new car.
• Free One Year Car Insurance from AXA for car loan borrowers. This gives you peace of mind from day one.

Whether it’s a car loan or a home loan, the goal remains the same: to give you and your family the stability and comfort you deserve without letting “what ifs” hold you back.

You can take your loved ones on road excursions and travel anywhere in luxury and safety with a new car. You may create a secure environment where you and your family can work, play, and develop together with a new house.

Large dreams don’t have to wait. You and your family are always one step closer to the next milestone when Metrobank is your partner and cherishes your hard-earned money just as much as you do.

Are you prepared to begin? For complete information on Goals Made Real 2026, visit any Metrobank location or visit this page.

Kat Bautista

Kat Bautista, COO and Founder of NYMA Management, has been appointed a judge for the 13th Annual Asia‑Pacific Stevie Awards. Bautista will join a panel evaluating entries across marketing, communications, innovation, and leadership categories for the region’s premier business awards.

Her selection reflects a proven track record in brand transformation and measurable campaign results across Asia‑Pacific markets. A two‑time Stevie winner, she was honored in 2025 as Best Female Entrepreneur at the International Business Awards (IBA) in Lisbon, Portugal, and was named a Bronze Stevie® Winner for Most Innovative Leader of the Year at the 2024 Asia‑Pacific Stevie® Awards.

Bautista also served as a judge for the 2026 Webby Awards — widely regarded as the leading international honors for excellence on the internet — bringing additional adjudication experience and a broad perspective on digital creativity, user experience, and strategic communication to the Stevie jury.

“I’m honored to join the Asia‑Pacific Stevie Awards jury,” Bautista said. “Judging is a responsibility I take seriously — it’s about recognizing craft and strategy that move industries, uplift communities, and deliver measurable results. I look forward to celebrating work that pairs creative ambition with clear business impact.”

The Awards celebration ceremony is set to take place on April 17, 2026 — The Venetian Hotel, Macau

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To learn more about NYMA, visit nyma.ph