Tech

Ditch the typing and deepen your relationship with the app that’s risen to #1 on combined Apple App Store and Google Play Store downloads!

We have seen firsthand how rapidly the everyday message landscape has changed over the past ten years. With convenience at its highest level, messaging apps have become more popular, enabling everyone to send texts instantly.

However, there are drawbacks to these methods of communication as well. In addition to the work required to manually text, instant messaging may weaken our bonds with superficial interactions. Furthermore, although fast delight is convenient, the inability to engage in deeper conversation can weaken our relationships with others. Buzz, a social app, seeks to address this by leading the way in voice-powered communication. 

Illustrating how voice can create a world of difference in deepening relationships would be the irresistible tandem of Barbie Forteza and David Licauco, who features in buz’s latest TVC! Beyond showcasing their undeniable chemistry, the full clip also highlights buz’s main goal: to connect through voice, and to let users feel that they are always with their loved ones.

Recognizing the power of our natural voice, buz is the social app that improves the ways people connect with one another. Going beyond merely text, buz empowers users to converse with their easy-to-use Push-to-Talk (PTT) feature, allowing users to quickly send voice notes that play instantaneously for the receiver.

Flexibility is another core value of buz, allowing users to multitask in between apps and even transcribing with its Voice to Text feature to improve the ways we connect everyday. Aiming to provide more fulfilling exchanges that no other messaging platforms can offer, buz is also home to a number of fun features such as Voicemojis, voice filters, and virtual gifts.

In the end, all of these features inside the app are a part of Buzz’s endeavors to not only give each discussion a distinctive, individualized taste, but also to exemplify the app’s primary value of facilitating instantaneous, enhanced contact with loved ones—all powered by everyone’s voice.

Make a verbal connection with Buzz and don’t forget to watch its most recent TVC featuring Barbie Forteza and David Licauco! Buzz is currently the most downloaded social app on both the  Apple and Android downloads, platforms combined. It is also free, making it simple for anybody to use speech to instantly strengthen and expand their relationships.

Carlo Santos, Globe Senior Director for Analytics and Stakeholder Engagement, speaks during the DTP Session at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila

As part of the annual G DAY celebration, Globe conducted a school tour to expand its Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) to five schools around the country, reaffirming its commitment to fostering digital citizenship and online safety.

More than 1,000 students attended the training sessions, which were hosted at the University of Southern Mindanao, Bintawan National High School in Nueva Vizcaya, STI Caloocan, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina, and Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila.

The Digital Thumbprint Program is a series of capacity-building workshops organized by Globe that aim to empower students and communities by promoting responsible digital citizenship and raising awareness about online safety, digital discernment, cybersecurity, mental health and wellness, and the sustainable use of technology.

The need for such programs is urgent. The Philippines faces significant challenges with online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC). Exacerbated by high internet usage, poverty rates, and advanced digital technologies, the country ranked second globally in cyber tip reports on child sexual abuse, with nearly 2.8 million incidents recorded by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) in 2022. The International Justice Mission estimates that one in 100 Filipino children has been trafficked for online exploitation.

Globe’s DTP initiative empowers students, teachers, and parents to proactively protect themselves and their communities from online risks, aligning with Globe’s mission to create a safer and more inclusive digital space. In 2023, Globe blocked over 404,730 malicious sites and links associated with child exploitation, illegal gambling, and online piracy — a 45% increase from the previous year — demonstrating its continued commitment to online safety.

In light of the increasing relevance of artificial intelligence (AI), Globe has expanded DTP to include discussions on AI ethics. The LinkedIn and Microsoft 2024 Annual Work Trend Index (WTI) study revealed that 71% of employers prefer candidates with AI skills, highlighting the need for students to understand and navigate AI responsibly.

The Globe team with students of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina at the recent DTP session held at the university.
 

At the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina, 50 students from the College of Criminology participated in a session designed to provide them with skills to safeguard their communities from online dangers. This training supports their future roles in public safety, especially in combating cybercrime.

Students found the DTP Learning Hour helpful for raising awareness about online security. Key takeaways included avoiding scams by verifying emails, texts, and links, being cautious with public Wi-Fi, and thinking before clicking. They valued learning how to protect personal information and stay safe online.

Similarly, STI Caloocan welcomed 50 IT students, who, as part of their Foundation Day celebrations, learned about the importance of digital responsibility in their tech-driven careers.

Meanwhile, at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, 365 students from the College of Information Systems and Technology Management gained valuable insights about AI, helping them navigate the digital world and lead with integrity.

“Educating students on digital safety is essential as they prepare for a future where technology is deeply intertwined with everyday life,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer.

“Through our Digital Thumbprint Program, we aim to empower the youth to use technology responsibly and ethically, ensuring they are equipped for the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

As part of its broader efforts, Globe also participated in the University of Southern Mindanao’s Pasiklaban 2024, enhancing festivities with a special #GDayEveryday celebration. Informative sessions on Telco 101, WiFi 101, and the DTP helped students gain practical knowledge about the digital world.

In another G Day highlight, Globe visited Bintawan National High School, nestled in the mountains of Villaverde, Nueva Vizcaya, as a gesture of appreciation for the students’ commitment to education. The visit reinforced Globe’s belief that every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and dream big.

Globe added an interesting raffle with GFiber Prepaid contracts for the winners throughout the DTP sessions to further engage the students. These plans help the winners’ digital and academic endeavors by offering fiber-fast connectivity that is instantly deployed in their houses and has no lock-up time.

Go to the Globe website’s Digital Thumbprint Program DTP page to learn more about the program and its support of digital safety.

Win an Avida condo unit, BYD EV, Gogoro Jego smart scooters, GCash credits, grocery shopping spree, and exciting gadgets

In the first draw last September 10, lucky winners took home grocery shopping spree vouchers at SM worth Php 120,000, powered by Share Treats as well as HUAWEI Pura 70 Pro smartphones, and other Huawei devices.

The excitement continued in the second draw on September 17 where 5x P100,000 GCash or Samsung S24+ smartphones, and other Samsung devices were given away.

The stakes get even higher in the third draw on September 24, where one lucky winner will get to drive home a brand-new BYD Dolphin EV, while two others will win one of 2 Gogoro Jego smart scooters.

The final draw, set on October 4, offers the most coveted prize yet: a one-bedroom Avida Astrea condominium unit or a luxury vacation for four at El Nido, Palawan.

Winners will be announced on Globe’s social media channels after each draw after a callout validation. So always keep your lines open as you might be the next G Raffle Rush winner!

How to Join:

Simply download the GlobeOne app, join the Globe Rewards program, and redeem raffle entries using your Globe Rewards points. Each Rewards point equals five raffle entries, and the more points redeemed, the more chances to win— up to 250 entries for just 50 Rewards points. For every redemption, you will also get a free discount voucher from our partners – Yellow Cab, Jamba Juice, Krispy Kreme, Grab, and Move It!

In addition to the online raffle, Globe is also hosting an interactive G Raffle Rush on-ground activation at the GDAY Mega Weekend happening on September 20 and 21, 2024, at BGC C1 (in front of Shake Shack).  It will feature fun activities where customers can win prizes such as Angkas vouchers, gadgets, and additional raffle entries for G Raffle Rush.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to test-drive Gogoro Jego units, making the experience both engaging and immersive.

“G Raffle Rush exemplifies Globe’s dedication to making everyday moments special. This initiative reflects our commitment to not only recognize our loyal customers and show them our appreciation but also enhance the wider community through memorable experiences and exclusive rewards,” said Jerome Patalud, Head of Globe Rewards.

Avida Land, Huawei, Samsung, Gogoro, ShareTreats, GCash, Yellow Cab, Jamba Juice, Krispy Kreme, Grab, and Move It have all partnered to make G Raffle Rush possible.

Download the GlobeOne app from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or Huawei App Gallery to redeem Globe Rewards points and unlock these amazing prizes.

Please visit http://glbe.co/GDayEveryday to find out more.

Download the GlobeOne app, join Rewards, and transact online to earn points and enjoy surprises

Jason Dhakal, one of the featured artists in the upcoming G Fest Luzon Leg, serenades guests at the G DAY Media Conference, September 12, 2024.

Customers of Globe, get ready! Globe is stepping up the excitement this September with the great return of G Day, our largest and most fruitful celebration to date. Globe is expressing its gratitude in many ways, including with brand-new deals, unique prizes, and cutting-edge experiences.

I am one of those Globe loyal customers that is excited to see what is in store for us. I have been using Globe for a very long time now, and I’m happy they never fell to disappoint us and make sure to give back to those who support them all throughout. I’m also happy to have learned a lot from them, as they give us ideas about their services and what will be their next step for their G-Day festivities.

“Our G Day celebration this month, anchored on Globe’s iconic 0917 prefix, honors our loyal customers with special treats and surprises, a gesture of our continuing commitment to serve them in uplifting ways,” said Darius Delgado, Globe’s Chief Commercial Officer. “Our goal is to make it a G Day every day for Filipinos–  to create wonderful experiences that empower them with choices, help them find the courage to overcome challenges, and discover new ways to live the best life with their loved ones.”

“In celebrating our millions of beloved customers across the country, the GlobeOne app serves as the gateway to unlocking rewards and rewarding experiences, enabling customers in the pursuit of their passions, while also giving them a platform to engage in causes that create positive social impact,” said Jerome Patalud, Head of Globe Rewards.

Peter Ramirez, Globe G DAY Lead, gives an overview of what Globe customers can expect this G DAY 2024 and how to join Globe’s All-New Rewards Program at the 2024 G DAY Media Conference, September 12, 2024.

The whole month of September promises to bring fun, delight and purpose through the many programs and activities lined up by Globe for its customers.

• All-New Rewards: More ways to earn rewards points, new lifestyle partners, deals and games with exciting prizes, exclusive in the GlobeOne App.
• G Raffle Rush: Convert Rewards points into raffle entries for the chance to win a condominium unit, electric vehicles, travel packages, and shopping sprees.
• G Fair: An event created for Filipino-owned SMEs to showcase their products with the bigger Globe customer base, powered by Globe’s digital business platforms.
• G Fest: A series of events in Manila, Iloilo and Davao celebrating music and the creativity of the Filipino youth in expressing their passions and connecting with their communities through digital platforms. G Fest will feature renowned local artists and provide opportunities for young people to hone and showcase their skills.
• G-Gantic Goals: With just 1 Rewards point, customers can contribute to a nationwide cause – donating 100,000 Rewards points in total will provide 917 families from different regions of the country with grocery packs and cinema block screenings for a family movie bonding weekend in partnership with the Hapag Movement.

Crisela Magpayo-Cervantes, Globe Vice President for Marketing Communications, delivers her message at the G DAY Media Conference, September 12, 2024.
 

Customers are encouraged to download the GlobeOne app, add their Globe accounts, and enroll in the All-New benefits program in order to take part in the G Day festivities and access these exclusive benefits and experiences. They have to use the GlobeOne app for all transactions, including load top-ups and payments, in order to begin collecting rewards points.

Go to http://glbe.co/GDayEveryday for more details about G Day and how to take part.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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