Browsing Category

Tech

Lifestyle, News, Tech

Globe-backed social entrepreneurs The Spark Project and Virtualahan are included in the Singtel Group Future Makers 2025 Impact Report

Future Makers event in Sydney, Australia, November 2017 — Virtualahan x Globe x Singtel x Optus. Photo courtesy of Virtualahan

A regional study commemorating 10 years of tech-driven social innovation, the Singtel Group Future Makers (SGFM) 2025 Impact Report highlighted two Philippine businesses supported by Globe: Virtualahan and The Spark Project.

The Spark Project, which helps entrepreneurs create sustainable businesses, and Virtualahan,  the nation’s first disability-centered social company, are two examples of SGFM alumni that demonstrate how technology can meet community needs while fostering business expansion.

Launched in 2015, SGFM has become a regional platform supporting 85 start-ups through grants, mentorship, and ecosystem access, benefiting over 24 million people across 11 countries through initiatives in education, healthcare, mental health, environment, agriculture, waste management, and inclusion.1 In 2017, Globe adopted this in the Philippines when it launched its Globe Future Makers (GFM) program to empower startups that use technology to address societal challenges. GFM provides these startups with essential resources such as mentorship, marketing assistance, and networking opportunities. The program aims to cultivate an ecosystem of social innovators who leverage technology to create positive change, aligning with the Singtel Group of Companies’ broader social innovation initiatives across the Asia-Pacific region.

As a major telecommunications conglomerate based in Singapore that provides a wide range of services across Asia, Australia, and Africa, Singtel is concluding the current format of the Future Makers program in the region after a successful ten-year run, citing a more mature social innovation ecosystem with growing government and corporate support.

“Moving forward, we will focus on working with alumni ventures to help drive their expansion and build stronger collaboration,” said Andrew Buay, VP for Group Sustainability at Singtel.

Virtualahan first gained recognition as one of the startups that won the Globe Future Makers (GFM) in 2017, while The Spark Project partnered with Globe for GFM 2019. Both later represented the Philippines for the regional SGFM network.

“Through our partnership with SGFM, we had the opportunity to support Filipino social enterprises in their journey to expand their impact and contribute to positive change in the communities they serve,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer.

Virtualahan illustrates this pathway by equipping persons with disabilities, vulnerable youth, solo parents, recovering addicts, persons deprived of liberty, and displaced workers with digital skills training and support programs that open up access to livelihood and long-term reintegration.

Since completing the 2017 GFM and SGFM cohorts, Virtualahan has trained 1,267 persons with disabilities, with a 66% employment rate and a 25% income increase among graduates. It has increased annual revenues by approximately 300% and incubated two spin-off businesses.

“The exposure, learning, and endorsement we received from SGFM and Globe helped boost our credibility as a pioneering social enterprise in the local disability space,” said Ryan Gersava, founder of Virtualahan.

The Spark Project, originally a crowdfunding platform for creative ventures, evolved after its GFM and SGFM experience into an entrepreneur-support organization that has assisted over 135 enterprises, channelled Php25.5 million into impact projects, and deployed a Php16.6 million loan fund.

“By connecting us with a wider network of mentors, collaborators, and supporters, GFM and SGFM enabled us to build stronger programs that support Filipino creatives and social entrepreneurs,” said Patch Dulay, founder of The Spark Project.

Aspiring and emerging entrepreneurs gather at Globe Tower for Spark Fest — a day of inspiring talks and workshops on creativity, entrepreneurship, and impact. Photo courtesy of The Spark Project

Collaborating with Globe, both groups launched impactful thematic programs. Virtualahan, for instance, connected persons with disabilities, displaced workers, and out-of-school youth to the internet, enabling their participation in the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s Digital Jobs PH upskilling programs in 2021. Meanwhile, the Spark Project teamed up with Globe for Spark Fest 2018 and 2019, creating a dedicated space where individuals passionate about social causes can find inspiration, learn, and connect with creative founders, thought leaders, and other aspiring entrepreneurs, demonstrating how telco infrastructure can amplify civic impact.

Through digital innovation, strategic collaboration, and regional alliances, Globe is dedicated to supporting Philippine businesses that use technology to solve urgent social issues and promote sustainable growth.

Read this study to find out more about the Singtel Group Future Makers (SGFM) 2025 Impact study, read the report here.

Go to https://www.globe.com.ph/ to visit Globe’s website.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Setting a new world record as the thinnest smartphone with a 3D curved display,

Measuring just 5.95mm at its thinnest point, the Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ combines ultra-thin design with powerful performance, setting a new benchmark for young global users seeking both style and substance.

Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ device officially been certified by GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ as the World’s Thinnest 3D Curved Display Smartphone

The Infinix HOT 60 Pro+, which measures only 5.95mm at its thinnest point, has been formally confirmed by GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS as the World’s Thinnest 3D Curved Display Smartphone. An important turning point in smartphone design and Infinix’s international expansion was reached with the certification event, which took place in Indonesia.

At the same time when the Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ was introduced locally, the award ceremony was held at Indonesia’s famous Borobudur Temple. Celebrated with XFans, this record-breaking accomplishment represents Infinix’s breakthrough in design innovation on a worldwide scale.

“The Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ not only achieves a balance between slimness and performance, but also reflects our continued exploration in smartphone innovation. Being officially certified by GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ is a recognition of the Infinix team’s efforts and reinforces our commitment to continuous breakthroughs on the global stage. Through achievements like this, we hope to enable young users around the world to enjoy a more inspiring and enjoyable tech lifestyle,” said Tony Zhao, Chief Executive Officer of Infinix.

To validate the record, Infinix partnered with an ILAC-accredited laboratory, where the HOT 60 Pro+ underwent rigorous laser measurements taken at ten different points on the device. The verification confirmed a minimum thickness of 5.95mm at its thinnest section and 6.09mm at its thickest point, with the latter adopted as the official benchmark for the Guinness World Records™ title. This precise evaluation ensures the integrity and credibility of the recognition, marking the HOT 60 Pro+ as the World’s Thinnest 3D Curved Display Smartphone.

From left to right: JKT48 Christy, Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ Ambassador; Sergio Ticoalu, Head of Marketing, Infinix Indonesia; Kazuyoshi Kirimura, Guinness World Records™ Adjudicator; Abia Wang, Infinix SEA Marketing Director; and JKT48 Gita, Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ Ambassador.

Kaoru Ishikawa, Vice President of Guinness World Records for Japan and Southeast Asia, shared “We are delighted to award the Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title as the World’s Thinnest 3D-Curved Display Smartphone, presented in conjunction with its market launch in Indonesia. This achievement not only demonstrates Infinix’s relentless pursuit of innovation, but also places Indonesia in the spotlight as a center of technological celebration. We congratulate Infinix on this accomplishment and will remain committed to witnessing and celebrating more record-breaking achievements in the future.”

Despite its ultra-slim profile, the Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ delivers a full smartphone experience. It features an AMOLED curved display and runs on the MediaTek Helio G200 chipset, ensuring smooth and responsive performance in both everyday use and demanding scenarios. The device also incorporates a slim yet long-lasting battery with 45W fast charging, balancing lightness with durability. This design philosophy reflects Infinix’s brand proposition of “Tech for Enjoyment”—bringing young users technology that unites slim design, strong performance, and a joyful experience.

This official recognition marks a new chapter for the HOT Series in the international market in addition to being a product accomplishment for the HOT 60 Pro+. The HOT Series is one of Infinix’s main product lines for youthful consumers, and it keeps coming up with new design and technological innovations to satisfy changing customer demands. The honor supports Infinix’s expanding worldwide footprint and increases its competitiveness in both mass-market and emerging markets.

You can buy the Infinix HOT 60 Series on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. At retail, the Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ costs P8,999, while the Infinix HOT 60 Pro costs P6,999.

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

To join this record-breaking community – and find out the answer to that original question – visit guinnessworldrecords.com.

 

Lifestyle, Tech

DITO’s exceptional network performance makes Filipinos’ digital dreams a reality

From left to right: Atty. Adel Tamano, Chief Revenue Officer; Miriam Choa, Head of Mobile Business; and Jasper Evangelista, Director of Brand Marketing

The telco’s most recent campaign, Kaya DITO, had a successful media debut at Manila House in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, where DITO Telecommunity demonstrated how better connectivity turns Filipino digital dreams into attainable reality. DITO’s ecosystem, which is based on True 5G standalone technology and has been verified by Opensignal, a global leader in mobile analytics and insights, as the Philippines’ Fastest Mobile Network, demonstrates that the Filipino telecommunity’s demands for seamless network connectivity, value-driven services, and a unified digital experience are not just hypothetical but rather fundamental expectations that challenge the long-standing norms of the telco industry.

“For too long, outages, dropped calls, and overpriced data have been treated as normal. Let us say it bluntly: It is not normal. Every Filipino has limitless potential when equipped with the right tools, and the game is now changing since DITO has joined the fray and taken up the cause to disrupt the status quo—to deliver inclusive, next-gen technology to the  Filipino people. “Kaya DITO!” is our battle cry to symbolically break that cycle, because we truly believe that Filipinos deserve better,” shared by DITO Telecommunity President Eric Alberto in the event.

The DITO Telecommunity’s Kaya DITO campaign launch is that it truly highlights how fast and reliable connectivity can empower Filipinos to turn their digital goals into reality. With the recognition as the Philippines’ Fastest Mobile Network and its strong 5G technology, DITO sets a new standard that goes beyond just providing service—it reshapes what we should expect from a telco. For me, it’s inspiring to see how innovation and commitment to better connectivity can create opportunities and make our digital experiences smoother, more accessible, and more meaningful.

The Telco that Truly Takes Care of its Users

DITO’s prepaid solutions eliminate the frustration of wasted data through Level-Up Packs with ViLTE technology, making DITO the primary telco offering unlimited DITO-to-DITO HD video calls and unli mobile calls. Combined with Viber and Prime Video inclusions and flexible data packages with longer validity periods, users can now maximize their every peso without worrying about abruptly expiring data allocations.

The Telco that Offers Value-Packed Postpaid Plans

DITOFlexPlan 888 redefines what postpaid should offer—comprehensive inclusions and generous data at prices that make sense for Filipino budgets. Whether you choose SIM-only or device bundles, these plans prove that premium network performance doesn’t have to break the bank, empowering users to pursue their goals without connectivity compromises.

The Telco that Brings True 5G Home Internet Convenience

DITO WoWFi Pro 365 makes home connectivity effortless with a year-long unlimited connection that works when you need it. Families enjoy the convenience of reliable internet for work, study, and entertainment without the inconvenience of data top-ups and complicated installations; just network performance that simplifies your digital life at home.  Just ask any of your relatives and friends who have already ditched ordinary WiFi and jumped onto WoWFi— they will tell you what you’ve been missing out on.

The Telco that Built Everything You Need in One App

The DITO App represents one of the industry’s most comprehensive digital platforms, built from the ground up to handle the entire customer journey. From SIM and load purchase to account management and a wide range of OTT apps, users enjoy complete digital control with custom special offers, DITO Rewards points, and 24/7 customer support—managing everything while earning exclusive benefits.

This comprehensive approach to next-gen technology reflects DITO’s overall commitment to delivering on its promises across all digital touch points. The fastest-growing telco in the country is serious about maintaining its digital advantage and continues to drive digital innovation in the Philippines.

Chief Revenue Officer Atty. Adel Tamano emphasized DITO’s track record: “Kinaya Namin. We delivered—and in some areas, exceeded our promises. Every milestone we achieve represents a digital aspiration realized for the ordinary Filipino. DITO has built leadership not through claims, but through comprehensive digital solutions built on proven network performance.” He also shared that instead of asking Filipinos to settle for what’s just available, “We’ve listened to the market and have taken on the challenge of delivering on their digital aspirations. Kaya Mo – we believe every Filipino has the potential to achieve more when equipped with the right tools and services that get them. Kaya Namin– because we have the capabilities, technology, and service excellence to make it happen. And ultimately, we want every Filipino to recognize that they have a superior choice to be part of our growing telecommunity, Kaya, DITO na tayo!”

Built Different from Day One

Capping off the program, Rodolfo “GenBoy” Santiago, DITO Telecommunity Officer, highlighted how the company’s future-ready infrastructure sets DITO apart in delivering on the promise of Kaya DITO.

“From day one, we made the deliberate choice to build a true 5G Standalone network, not just marginal upgrades to legacy systems,” Santiago said. “This decision is what allows us to provide Filipinos with the real 5G experience — faster speeds, lower latency, higher capacity, and maximum reliability.”

Superior service across all services is made possible by DITO’s TRUE 5G Standalone infrastructure, which is built without legacy constraints. DITO’s dedication to closing the digital divide is evident in its technological advantage, which is confirmed by OpenSignal’s ranking as the fastest network in the Philippines.

According to DITO’s Brand & Marketing Director, Jasper Evangelista, “This deeper purpose of inspiring ordinary Filipinos to reach out for more and effecting real change—this is what continues to motivate all of us DITO employees.” He said this was the key to building brand love in a tribe of over 15 million DITOZEN subscribers in such a short time frame. In other words, this all-encompassing and empowering DITO ecosystem has essentially opened the door for Filipinos, regardless of their status or situation in life, to boldly exclaim, “Kaya ko nga dito!” And one empowered subscriber at a time, DITO is demonstrating that amazing things happen when performance is driven by purpose as they continue to connect more Filipinos.

DITO Telecommunity Links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DITOphofficial 

Instagram: @ditophofficial 

X: @DITOphofficial 

TikTok: @ditophofficial 

 

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Big Flavors, UNSTPPBL Energy: GOMO customers experience the First Scratch Session

GOMO is turning up the flavor in its mission to inspire subscribers to live an UNSTPPBL life by breaking limits, defying norms, and making every moment count. More than just connectivity, GOMO is about bringing fresh, bold experiences that fuel culture and creativity. That’s why the digital telco has partnered with Scratch Smashburgers as the Official Co-Presenter of the first-ever Scratch Session, a dining experience that fuses food, culture, and creativity.

On August 20, the debut Scratch Session will dish out a mash-up of flavors as Manila culinary heavyweights Stephen Duhesem (Automat, Metiz) and Mikko Reyes, Executive Chef of Scratch Smashburgers, join forces for an exclusive collab. Putting a fearless Filipino spin on the burger-and-fries classic, the duo brings to life GOMO’s vibe of breaking limits and turning the everyday into the extraordinary.

Headlining the menu is The Double MetCheeze, a double smash burger with mostaza, bagoong chili mayo, and fermented pineapple glaze. Also on offer is Twirly Spaghetti Fries, a playful spin on banana ketchup spaghetti served over fries with Malabon longganisa, samjang mayo, fermented red onions, and Gouda cheese.

GOMO subscribers can redeem these exclusives through the GOMO app using ‘Mo Creds. Get the Double MetCheeze for 15GB, Twirly Spaghetti Fries for 15GB, or both for 25GB.

“GOMO has always been about pushing boundaries and redefining what your telco can do for you.” said Dom Brucal, Head of GOMO PH. “Scratch Sessions is proof that our No Expiry Data doesn’t just connect people – it creates culture. With GOMO, you can turn your data into something tangible, memorable, and unique.

Scratch Sessions will continue as a series bringing together chefs, artists, and fashion creatives for fresh, surprising concepts.

“This menu was our playground for local ingredients and daring combinations,” added Chef Stephen Duhesem. “It’s a celebration of Filipino flavors in a way you’ve never experienced before.”“At Scratch Smashburgers, we thrive on pushing flavor boundaries, and this partnership with GOMO lets us take that creative freedom even further,” said Chef Mikko Reyes. “We wanted to create something fun, bold, and totally unexpected.”

GOMO is fueling the excitement for adventurous foodies and digital thrill-seekers, inviting everyone to share their bites with #ScratchSessions and #WeDontStop #WeGOMO.

Follow the action on GOMO’s Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for an all-access pass to behind-the-scenes moments and an up-close, mouth-watering look at dishes that make this food journey anything but ordinary.

Switch to GOMO by ordering a SIM at gomo.ph and unlock exclusive perks like Scratch Sessions and turn GBs into experiences with ‘Mo Creds.

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Globe Takes First Place in Two Stevie® Award Contests for Innovation in Technology and Employer Excellence

Globe’s numerous victories in two esteemed international award platforms—the 10th annual Stevie® Awards for Great Employers and the Stevie® Awards for Technology Excellence—further cement its position as a forward-thinking employer and digital pioneer. Globe’s steadfast dedication to technology advancement and employee empowerment is demonstrated by these accolades.

The business was one of just three to win 14 trophies at the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, which recognize the best workplaces, HR departments, and people-centered projects worldwide. At the same time, Globe won a Silver Stevie Award for Technology Team of the Year from the Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence, which honors innovative accomplishments in the technology sector.

“These awards reaffirm our status as an employer of choice and a technology-driven organization on the global stage,” said Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz. “We are and we will always be a premier destination for top talent in the Philippines and Southeast Asia.”

Excellence in People Strategy

Globe bagged two coveted Gold trophies at the Stevie® Awards for Great Employers, cementing its position as a global leader in people-first transformation. The Leading Transformation Award celebrated Globe’s agile and future-ready workforce model, while the Best Use of People Analytics honored how data is powering strategic HR decisions and long-term organizational growth.

These awards are the result of a deeply rooted belief that people strategy is business strategy. Globe has invested in reshaping the employee experience through data-powered transformation, a skills-first approach, and bold leadership development initiatives that scale talent with the future in mind.

“We are proud that the Stevie Awards recognized our people-first culture and placed our employer brand at par with global leaders in HR excellence,” Cruz added.

The company was also awarded:

  • Silver for Achievement in Executive Development, Most Innovative Deployment,and HR Technology Innovation
  • Bronze for New Employee Onboardingand Best Talent Acquisition Process, spotlighting its skills-first, AI-enabled hiring model

Individual honors went to standout Ka-Globe leaders:

  • Silver: Culture Transformation Leader of the Year– Mark Dimaisip, Head of Employer Branding & Employee Experience
  • Bronze: CHRO of the Year– Ato Jiao; HR Executives of the Year – Anna Manlapit and Nico Bambao; HR Professional of the Year – Aldwin Mahusay; Internal Communications Professional of the Year – JL Benedict Gutierrez; Rising HR Star of the Year – Reba Magampon

Together, these recognitions highlight Globe’s holistic and forward-thinking HR strategy, one that marries empathy with innovation, and builds a workplace where every Ka-Globe can thrive.

Powering a Data-Driven Future

Globe won a Silver Stevie® for Technology Team of the Year at the Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence 2025.

The winning nomination showcased three high-impact Data & Analytics initiatives led or supported by Enterprise Data & Strategic Services (EDS), in partnership with various teams across Globe:

  • Next Best Offer (NBO) – by  Globe rewards team, Feel Valued Tribe, in collaboration with EDS.
  • Customer Experience Management (CEM) Program – by Globe Customer Experience ,  Network Technical Group & EDS.
  • True Modern Open Data Architecture – by EDS &  Globe Information Systems Group.

These initiatives reflect Globe’s strategic push to advance enterprise-wide analytics maturity, optimize performance, and improve customer outcomes.

A key milestone is the deployment of the Next Best Offer (NBO) engine, an AI-driven platform that generates 5 billion scores weekly and delivers 2.5 billion personalized offers twice a week. The platform boosted campaign efficiency by +304% and increased offer acceptance by 317%, clearly demonstrating the ROI of data-driven personalization.

The Customer Experience Management (CEM) Program—powered by the real-time Customer Experience Index (CEI)—enabled faster, more market-responsive decisions. This led to incremental revenue across 420 locations and helped reduce customer complaints by 20%. The CEI dashboard now facilitates hourly monitoring of network quality, trimming issue resolution times by 30%.

Meanwhile, Globe also became an early adopter of True Modern Open Architecture, implementing Apache Iceberg v2 in a cloud-agnostic environment. The transformation improved “Time to Insight,” cutting ETL execution time by up to 90% and yielding 84–93% cost savings. For instance, one use case showed a drop in processing time from 23 minutes to just 1 minute.

These developments highlight Globe’s sustained dedication to developing into an AI-enabled, data-smart company where technology is not only a capacity but also a competitive advantage.

Globe’s professional options can be found at https://www.globe.com.ph/about-us/careers#gref.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Amid the rise of AI, Schneider Electric advocates for scalable, energy-efficient data centers

  • The Philippines’ growing digital transformation and AI adoption are driving increased demand for high-density data centers.
  • Rising power consumption from these data centers is adding pressure on the country’s existing power infrastructure.
  • To support local operators, Schneider Electric next-generation infrastructure solutions tailored for AI and high-performance computing workloads, alongside a global partnership with NVIDIA to advance the physical and operational backbone for next-gen GPU clusters.
  • Designed for energy efficiency and seamless grid integration, these innovations empower operators and developers to build sustainable, resilient digital and physical infrastructure in the Philippines.

Schneider Electric unveils its next-gen EcoStruxure™ Pod and Rack Solutions—modular, liquid-cooled, and AI-ready infrastructure designed to power high-performance computing at scale.

As artificial intelligence (AI) increases demand for high-density data centers, Schneider Electric, the global leader in digital energy management and automation, is calling for more sustainable and efficient infrastructure. The company recently launched new EcoStruxure™ Data Center Solutions and announced a global collaboration with NVIDIA to develop power, cooling, controls, and high-density rack systems for the next generation of AI data centers.

At Schneider Electric’s Innovation Day Philippines 2025, Uptime Institute emphasized how the Philippines’ already overburdened power infrastructure is being put under more strain as a result of the surge in demand for high-density data centers brought on by the rapid expansion of AI and cloud services.

To help industries stay ahead, Schneider Electric offers a suite of AI-ready data center solutions—including the Prefabricated Modular EcoStruxure Pod and enhanced Rack Solutions—specifically designed to support high-performance AI workloads.

These solutions incorporate Schneider Electric’s validated data center reference designs to shorten planning cycles and address emerging challenges of high-density AI clusters and liquid cooling. Its core features include:

  • Support for up to 120kW per rack, advanced liquid and air cooling for efficient thermal management (Uniflair FWCV fan walls, Uniflair ACSX L2A coolant distribution units or CDUs, and Uniflair CPOR L2L CDUs)
  • Grid-ready power systems with AI-tolerant Uninterruptible Power Supply (Galaxy VXL)
  • Real-time monitoring using EcoStruxure Power Monitoring Expert, EcoStruxure IT Expert, and AVEVA Unified Operations Center to optimize performance across power and thermal domains.

Built on EcoStruxure™—Schneider Electric’s integrated platform combining Power, Building, and IT systems—these modular, scalable solutions reduce risk, boost energy efficiency, and enable faster deployment of AI data centers.

Schneider Electric also announced its partnership with NVIDIA to co-develop infrastructure solutions designed specifically for AI workloads. Together, the two companies are advancing Research and Development (R&D) in power delivery, thermal management, operational controls, and high-density rack systems to support high-performance Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) clusters. This global initiative contributes to Europe’s €200B “InvestAI” program and serves as a model for regions like Southeast Asia aiming to fast-track AI growth through strategic investments and innovation ecosystems.

“Schneider Electric and NVIDIA are not just partners — our teams are driving advanced R&D, co-developing the infrastructure needed to power the next wave of AI factories globally,” said Olivier Blum, CEO of Schneider Electric. “Together, we’ve seen tremendous success in deploying next-generation power and liquid cooling solutions, purpose-built for AI data centers. This strategic partnership — bringing together the world leaders in sustainability and accelerated computing — allows us to further accelerate this momentum, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for the AI workloads of tomorrow.”

Schneider Electric works with a range of stakeholders to promote energy efficiency and create data center ecosystems that are prepared for the future as the Philippines quickens its digital transformation and AI adoption. The company is contributing to the development of a more robust digital infrastructure for the nation by integrating sustainability, proven solutions, and decades of worldwide experience into the core of its business strategy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Globe sponsors the Philippine Business and Disability Network Meeting during National Disability Rights Week

Globe recently became the first local company to sponsor the Philippine Business and Disability Network’s (PBDN) 4th Networking Meeting, held in cooperation with Project Inclusion Network. What does equity look like when it’s included into the design of our systems, workplaces, and technologies? This was the main reason that 36 companies attended the event, which took place during National Disability Rights Week and brought together changemakers from many sectors.”

The idea that disability inclusion is a fundamental design problem rather than just a moral or legal need was at the center of the discussion.

Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz opened the event with an unwavering commitment to inclusion. “Inclusion is not an afterthought at Globe. We’re embedding it into our culture, our systems, and our platforms because we believe every talent is important and should be cared for.” He acknowledged that while the road ahead is long, Globe is committed to listening, taking action, and moving forward with partners who share the same vision.

Denise Haak, Globe AVP for Product Experience Strategy & Design shared her own experience building diverse teams, not just in Globe but also in her past workplaces. Haak shared stories of hiring individuals with visual, speech, and developmental disabilities to show how inclusive hiring leads to accessible design. Her message was clear, “When we design for difference, we create better solutions for everyone.”

“We can start practicing equity by reviewing our job descriptions for bias, offering interview accommodations, removing unnecessary time pressure from tests, and making sure our digital tools are easy to navigate for everyone,” Haak shared. “Inclusion doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. What it needs is thoughtfulness, and the courage to ask the right questions.”

Guided by its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy Commitment, Globe is actively redesigning its web platforms to deliver an equitable online experience for its users. Among the company’s initiatives include incorporating accessibility personas for user-centered development, ensuring compliance with WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, leveraging on color contrast palette, and using clear and simple language.

Social innovator and Virtualahan founder Ryan Gersava drove home the urgency of these questions with his powerful personal story. Denied employment after being diagnosed with a chronic illness, Gersava turned exclusion into action by creating a digital skills training program that has since empowered hundreds of persons with disabilities to launch remote careers.

He reminded the audience that exclusion is rarely accidental, it is the result of design decisions made without lived experience in the discussion and creation process of policies and systems. “Real inclusion is not about pity or optics. It’s about co-creating systems with the people they’re meant to serve,” he said.

The event concluded with a hands-on workshop titled “Journeys & Junctions: Mapping Inclusion Across the Employee Lifecycle.” In small groups, the participants explored real-world scenarios through the lens of disability personas, identifying barriers across stages like hiring, onboarding, and performance review. Teams then co-created practical redesigns of policies, tech solutions, or process tweaks that could lead to more inclusive work experiences. The session encouraged collaboration, empathy, and real-time application of inclusive thinking.

Mr. Grant Javier, Executive Director of PBDN concluded the event with a call to action “Our progress hinges on cultivating a wider network of allies and champions. This extends beyond persons with disabilities themselves to encompass the very individuals with whom they work, fostering a truly inclusive ecosystem.”

For Globe, organizing this event was a movement rather than a single event. Even while no one corporation can accomplish this on its own, it was evident that a digital world that benefits everyone might be created with the correct collaborations and inquiries.

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Fearless Adaptability, Additional Advantages with the New GPlan PLUS

Globe’s All-New GPlan PLUS will help you take bold charge of your life. This SIM-only plan is perfect for people looking for value, independence, and no lock-ins because it offers customizable features, exclusive benefits, and an improved network experience.

“The All-New GPlan PLUS is designed to fit your lifestyle, whether you’re a digital nomad, content lover, or simply want more control,” said Jo Anne Illescas-Pique, Head of Globe Mobile Postpaid. “Your plan, your rules, powered by the Philippines’ Most Consistent Network.”

Starting at Plan 599, customers enjoy unlimited calls and texts to all networks, landline access, and exclusive perks from partners like Surge Fitness + Lifestyle and Ayala Museum. They can also redeem eGift vouchers using Globe Rewards points from brands like Rustan’s, Grab, Autosweep, and The Marketplace.

Device offers are also available for this plan. Customers may get up to 30% off contract-free or opt for a plan with a contract to enjoy bonus GBs. Devices may be paid in cash or via credit card (straight or installment). Eligible renewing customers may charge the device to their monthly bill.

Users can switch inclusions at any time using the GlobeOne app for Plan 799 and higher. This includes calls, texts, and data, as well as benefits like Unli 5G, unrestricted access to favorite applications, and Disney+, GrabUnlimited, and other vouchers. This feature, which was previously only available to Plan 999 and higher, is now accessible to Plan 799 customers through September 30, 2025.

With its distinctive benefits, configurable features, and no lock-in option, the All-New GPlan PLUS raises the bar for postpaid service. It serves people who want to get the most out of their mobile experience, are always connected, or are always on the go.

Apply at shop.globe.com.ph for the All-New GPlan PLUS.

Lifestyle, Tech

Expanding its Reach in Mindanao: Eastern Communications Provides Dependable Connectivity to More Communities

Eastern Communications launches in General Santos and Dipolog

Dipolog City welcomes Eastern Communications telecommunications and ICT services. [From L to R:] Eastern Communications (EC) Event Host Apple Mendoza, Dipolog City Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Atty. Paul Gudmalin, EC Chief Revenue & Innovation Officer Edsel Paglinawan, Dipolog City Councilor Harry Young, EC Regional Sales Head Anthony Co, EC Chief Marketing & Experience Officer Jed Estanislao, and EC Regional Sales Account Manager Jeck Sappayani

Eastern Communications, the first telecommunications and ICT solutions provider in the Philippines, has formally extended its services in General Santos City and Dipolog City, two important Mindanao communities, as part of its ongoing effort to close the digital gap. The telco celebrates its expanding presence in Southern and Western Mindanao—empowering local communities, fostering innovation, and bolstering regional growth—through its iconic Via Eastern launch ceremonies.

Eastern Communications Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer Edsel Paglinawan said, “We’re excited to officially launch our services in General Santos and Dipolog, and to expand to more areas across Mindanao. Our presence in these key digital cities reflects Eastern Communications’ continued mission to transform how businesses in manufacturing, retail, IT-BPM, and MSME sectors operate, helping them better serve their communities and drive inclusive progress across the cities. By equipping enterprises of all sizes with reliable connectivity and future-ready ICT solutions, we’re building a digital foundation that empowers communities, fuels regional economies, and drives long-term, inclusive development.”

Empowering General Santos: The Tuna Capital of the Philippines

Eastern Communications receives a warm welcome from General Santos City and receives support from GenSan business chambers, ICT organizations, media friends and government officials.

On August 12, Eastern Communications marked its official entry into General Santos City with a launch held at the Grand Summit Hotel. General Santos continues to rise as a vital hub for trade and innovation, taking the spot as the 15th most competitive city in the country and 3rd among highly urbanized cities in Mindanao in the 2024 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI).

“This partnership opens new doors for our businesses, government, and communities, allowing us to connect better, work smarter, and innovate faster. We look forward to collaborating with Eastern Communications in building a more inclusive, progressive and future-ready GenSan,” said General Santos City Councilor Michael Pacquiao.

General Santos City or GenSan is home to six of the nation’s seven tuna canneries and employs over 200,000 individuals and serves as a key driver of the Philippines’ fishery exports. To support this thriving industrial hub, the government-led Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) has initiated the rehabilitation of the General Santos Fish Port Complex, further strengthening the city’s vital contribution to the industry.

Eastern’s expansion brings advanced digital solutions tailored to support key local industries, including manufacturing, retail, MSMEs, tourism, agriculture, and the growing IT-BPM sector.

With business-grade connectivity services like Eastern Fiber 1 and Internet Direct Service (IDS), local enterprises benefit from fast, secure, and scalable internet, essential for boosting productivity and meeting global business standards to stay competitive in international markets.

For the agricultural sectors in Mindanao, consistent enterprise-grade internet is critical to support agritech applications such as cloud-based platforms, agricultural robotics, and automated machinery, helping farmers monitor crops, predict weather, and grow more successful harvests.

Meanwhile, for the region’s canning companies and smart manufacturing, business-grade internet is no longer optional, it’s a necessity for meeting international standards, achieving global competitiveness, and expanding to global markets. Reliable, high-speed connectivity enables real-time inventory tracking, smart aquaculture operations, seamless coordination across production lines, and efficient logistics and export operations such as blockchain-based traceability systems.

Unlocking Digital Growth in Dipolog: The Gateway to Western Mindanao

On July 22, Eastern Communications held its launch at D’Hotel & Suites in Dipolog City, capital of Zamboanga del Norte. Known as the “Gateway to Western Mindanao,” Dipolog is quickly emerging as a business hub, powered by growing tourism, trade, and logistics infrastructure. In the 2024 CMCI rankings, Zamboanga del Norte climbed to 47th in economic dynamism nationwide, with Dipolog retaining its title as the Most Competitive Component City in Region 9.

“In this fast-paced, digital age, connectivity is not just a luxury, it is a necessity. Reliable communication bridges communities, empowers businesses, and connects our people to a wider world of possibilities. With Eastern Communications now part of our local landscape, we are assured of better access to technology and services that will help our communities thrive and compete,” said Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Governor DareI Uy.

“This development reflects a shared belief that “Bag-ong Zanorte” is ready for the future. Let this launch be a reminder to all of us that progress is best achieved when we work hand in hand-government, private sector, and the community. Together, we can ensure that no Zanortehanon is left out of the opportunities that the digital age brings,” added Governor Uy.

Driving Inclusive Progress Through Connectivity

While over 50 million Filipinos are now online, regions in Mindanao still face gaps in internet access. Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority shows that internet connectivity in Mindanao remains low, with only 28.5% of households in the Zamboanga Peninsula being connected. This highlights the urgent need to expand internet infrastructure as a foundation for meaningful digital transformation in the region. Eastern Communications is working to bridge this gap by establishing strong digital foundations and has connected key Mindanao areas, including Davao, Zamboanga, Butuan, and Cagayan de Oro. Backed by its recent network infrastructure expansion, the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN), Eastern continues to build digital resilience and drive inclusive growth in the country, one city at a time.

Eastern Communications is now providing businesses in General Santos and Dipolog with cutting-edge digital solutions as part of its Mindanao expansion, assisting in promoting inclusive growth, bolstering industries, and preparing communities for a more connected future.

Visit eastern.com.ph or give us a call at 0919-081-7788 or 0917-300-7788 to find out more about Eastern Communications’ business-grade internet, cloud, cybersecurity, and other ICT solutions.

 

 

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Loyal customers are rewarded by Globe AT HOME with free speed increases of up to 1 Gbps

For many of its devoted GFiber Plan postpaid customers, Globe AT HOME is increasing internet speeds at no additional cost. Just quicker, stronger, and more dependable connectivity sent right to their homes—no sign-ups, no hidden costs. .

“We know our customers rely on us more than ever to stay connected, whether for work, entertainment, or everyday life,” said Abigail Cardino, Vice President and Head of Brand Management, Broadband Business at Globe. “We are committed to stay true to our promise of delivering more value without asking more from our loyal customers.”  

The new speeds are based on tenure, with boosts reaching up to 1 Gbps. To complement the upgraded speeds, Globe AT HOME is also upgrading customers to the latest WiFi 6 modems at no extra cost, along with a refreshed 24-month lock-up. This upgrade lets families connect up to 50 devices with low lag, enjoy ultra HD streaming and smooth multiplayer gaming, and stay protected with stronger built-in security.

This initiative reflects Globe AT HOME’s commitment to delivering meaningful experiences that match the evolving digital lifestyle of Filipino households, and to showing real appreciation for customers who continue to trust Globe with their home connectivity.

“We anticipate our customers’ needs and take the lead in making sure our loyal customers get the service they deserve,” Cardino added. “At the end of the day, this is about showing our commitment. Because nothing connects like Globe AT HOME.”

No action is required; eligible customers will immediately receive their FREE speed boost after receiving notification through the GlobeOne app. Accounts must be active and bills current in order to qualify.

Download and create your Globe AT HOME account using the GlobeOne app to view your new speed, manage your account, and make real-time bill payments.