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PCTO Calls for measured implementation of Konektadong Pinoy Act amid National Energy Emergency

Business

The Philippine Chamber of Telecommunication Operators (PCTO) hereby respectfully submits this statement of concern in light of the prevailing national energy emergency and its significant impact on the telecommunications sector. The PCTO acknowledges the importance of the Konektadong Pinoy Act and its objectives of expanding digital connectivity for all Filipinos. However, in consideration of the extraordinary circumstances currently facing the nation, the PCTO respectfully urges all relevant government agencies and regulators to give immediate and serious attention to the following: EXTENDED AND SPACED POLICY CONSULTATIONS Given the magnitude and urgency of the national energy emergency, the PCTO requests that policy consultations pertaining to the various issues such as the access list, dig once policy, SMPF, infrastructure sharing & cybersecurity and others related to the implementing rules under the Konektadong Pinoy Act be extended and appropriately spaced. Compressed timelines and simultaneous consultation processes place an undue burden on stakeholders whose operational capacities are presently strained. Adequate spacing of consultations will ensure that inputs are substantive, well-considered, and genuinely reflective of the entire industry stakeholders’ position. DUE CONSIDERATION FOR INTERNAL OPERATIONAL AND COST PRESSURES The ongoing national energy emergency has given rise to significant internal challenges for telecom operators, including increased operational costs, supply chain disruptions, workforce constraints, and heightened demand for essential connectivity services. The PCTO respectfully requests that regulators give due consideration to these compounding pressures when crafting and enforcing policy timelines, compliance requirements, and related obligations under the law. 28 th Floor, The Globe Tower, 32 nd Street corner 7 th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig ∙ Tel 7797 4268 ∙ Fax 7797.2697 FULL UTILIZATION OF THE ONE-YEAR SMPF PROMULGATION PERIOD The Konektadong Pinoy Act provides a period of one (1) year for the promulgation of the Spectrum Management and Policy Framework (SMPF). The PCTO strongly appeals for the full and meaningful use of this statutory period to allow for comprehensive consultation, collaborative drafting, and thorough review among all spectrum stakeholders. Rushing the SMPF process risks producing a framework that is inadequately aligned with technical realities, market conditions, and the long-term interests of both industry and the public. MORATORIUM ON POLICY ISSUANCES DURING THE CRISIS PERIOD Considering the foregoing, the PCTO respectfully appeals that, for the duration of the ongoing national energy emergency, the Government refrain from unduly rushing the release of any circular, directive, or policy that would materially affect the telecommunications industry. A moratorium and proper extension of time for stakeholder consultations is not merely a procedural accommodation, it is a practical necessity. The overriding urgency at this time is to ensure that the telecommunications industry remains operational, financially viable, and fully capable of keeping critical telecom infrastructure functional and resilient. Stability in the sector is not an industry interest alone, it is a public interest, as connectivity has proven indispensable in times of national crisis. The PCTO remains committed to working constructively with all government agencies toward the shared goal of advancing digital connectivity for every Filipino.

Globe CEO showcases AI‑Driven Transformation and Digital Inclusion at MWC 2026

Business

Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz discussed how AI serves as a strong catalyst for transformation within Globe at The Great Indoors Podcast, hosted by Matthew Roberts, Customer Marketing Head of Amdocs, during the Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, Spain.  Cruz shared insights on Globe’s digital inclusion journey and its mission to make connectivity an enabler for progress in the Philippines. Now in its 12th season, The Great Indoors explores how storytelling drives technological innovation and bridges the gap between complex advancements like AI and the human experience. Cruz’s participation highlighted Globe’s evolving role from a telco to a trusted lifestyle partner, enabling education, livelihood, healthcare, and digital inclusion across the country. Reflecting on his first year as CEO, describing it to be both humbling and energizing, Cruz emphasized Globe’s commitment to customer‑centricity, sustainability, and partnerships that expand universal access. He underscored how initiatives such as AI‑driven personalization, disaster response, and collaborations with global partners like Starlink and Amdocs are shaping a more inclusive digital future for Filipinos “With the Philippines being an archipelagic nation of over 7,600 islands, serving 65 million customers has both challenges and opportunities. This is where our recent Starlink partnership announcement on direct‑to‑device satellite technology becomes transformative. By complementing mobile and fiber with satellite, we can now reach the remaining 4% of the population living in mountainous and remote areas, bringing our coverage closer to 100%. This breakthrough ensures that even the most underserved communities can finally participate in the digital world, access government services online, and be fully connected,” said Cruz. Globe is redefining customer centricity in the digital‑first era by investing in AI‑driven care, self‑service platforms, and proactive network monitoring to resolve issues before they disrupt lives. Central to this commitment is the GlobeOne App, which empowers subscribers to manage accounts, track usage, pay bills, and access hyper‑personalized offers seamlessly, placing control and convenience directly in the hands of every customer. Cruz also underscored the company’s proactive stance against online risks, noting that Globe was among the first operators globally to stop sending SMS messages containing links as early as five years ago. This pioneering move was designed to shield subscribers from potential scams and malicious content. The initiative reflects Globe’s broader mission to go beyond providing connectivity by educating and informing subscribers on digital safety. “Being truly customer‑centric means ensuring that our subscribers are safe in the digital space,” he said. “We operate in a world where connectivity is essential, but protection is equally critical. That’s why Globe made the call years ago to block SMS messages with links, and since 2021, we have successfully prevented more than 12 billion spam and scam messages from reaching our customers. It’s second nature to us because safeguarding our subscribers is part of our responsibility as a trusted network.” Cruz likewise pointed to Globe’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, describing it not as an HR agenda but as a business philosophy. By ensuring its workforce reflects the diversity of the Filipino population, Globe strengthens its customer‑centric culture and ability to serve varied needs across the nation. Cruz reaffirmed the company’s mission to create a safer digital space, uplift the lives of every Filipino by building meaningful connections, relentless care for customers and its people, and committing to the nation’s progress through innovation and inclusivity.  

Power up your BDO credit card with the best payment app in town

Business

Managing your spending is now as easy as a few taps on your phone. Whether you’re shopping or paying bills online, BDO Unibank (BDO) keeps pace with your busy lifestyle—giving you real-time control, security, and convenience right at your fingertips. Designed to simplify your financial routine, the BDO Pay app makes managing your BDO credit card intuitive and hassle-free. Instantly check your outstanding balance, track transactions, view statements, and see payment due dates in your app in real time. Security you control With BDO Pay, you can keep your credit card locked when you’re not using it and unlock it instantly when you need it, adding a layer of protection against unauthorized transactions. Activate your credit card, access e-statements, or file disputes directly in the payment app so you can skip the customer service calls. Everyday services, simplified You can request card re-delivery, apply for a Cash Advance PIN, or check the status of a credit card application, all by using BDO Pay. You can even request supplementary cards right from the app, making tasks quick and easy. More ways to pay Through BDO Pay’s Scan to Pay option, you can make purchases even without your physical credit card. Simply scan QR codes at merchant stores nationwide and complete your transactions securely, avoiding the risk of wrong transfers or fraudulent cash-ins. No need to pre-load funds and no more awkward delays at the counter due to insufficient funds. Easy access to Rewards Every qualified spend earns points when you pay with your BDO Credit Card linked to your BDO Pay. Convert your points to Cash Credit for more shopping or transfer points to your BDO Rewards or SMAC or SMAC prestige to enjoy member privileges. Go further every time you spend. By blending financial control with everyday lifestyle ease, BDO Pay transforms the BDO credit card into a smarter, more flexible tool. Simply perfect for today’s always-on, mobile-first way of life. Unlock exclusive dining deals and shopping rewards when you download BDO Pay and use it with your BDO Credit Card. Get it for free on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei AppGallery.

Converge Global Business Clinches

Business

B2B Client Initiative of the Year at the 2026 Asian Telecom Awards   Manila, Philippines — Converge Global Business, the corporate and large enterprise unit of leading fixed broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions, Inc. (Converge), has been honored with the B2B Client Initiative of the Year – Philippines at the prestigious Asian Telecom Awards 2026. Recognized for its Elevating Connections series, this initiative continues to set the standard for customer engagement by bridging the gap between advanced technology and public service. The award reflects documented success across lead generation, event attendance, and high client satisfaction for activities conducted in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. “Accepting this award on behalf of the team is a deeply proud moment for us,” said Valery Briones, VP and Head of Global Marketing. “The success of Elevating Connections is a result of the seamless collaboration with our Global Business Sales partners nationwide. This award validates our shared commitment to turning ICT into a strategic advantage for enterprises and government units alike, empowering them to thrive in a digital-first economy.” The Elevating Connections series was developed as a structured series of enterprise engagements focused on direct interaction with decision-makers, offering industry-specific discussions on topics such as cybersecurity, cloud solutions, and infrastructure planning tailored for sectors including manufacturing, education, and hospitality. The program exceeded engagement benchmarks, with attendance surpassing targets and achieving a high volume of prospective partners. Post-event feedback demonstrated exceptional client satisfaction, with attendees praising the relevance of topics and the value of direct exchanges with subject-matter specialists. “Receiving this award is a testament to our dedicated approach in understanding and meeting the evolving needs of the Philippine enterprise sector,” said Grace Jarin-Castillo, Senior Vice President and Head for Sales and Marketing of Converge Global Business Group. “Elevating Connections was built to be more than just a series of events; it is a platform for meaningful collaboration. By providing industry-specific insights and tailored technology solutions, we are empowering businesses to navigate their digital transformation successfully.” Converge continues to solidify its status as a leader in the technology and ICT  industry with this win, following the standout achievement of being named the Broadband Telecom Company of the Year – Philippines at the Asian Telecom Awards for four consecutive years (2022–2025). The Asian Telecom Awards recognizes leading ICT companies across the Asia Pacific for their contributions to industry advancement, technological innovation, and digital infrastructure development.

BCDA, DBP-DCI advance digital financial systems for Camp John Hay, New Clark City and other BCDA properties

Business

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has formalized a partnership with DBP Data Center Inc. (DBP-DCI) to explore the development of a digital financial management and information infrastructure system that will support BCDA’s digital transformation and smart city initiatives. On 28 February 2026, BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang and DBP-DCI President and CEO Michielson L. Luakian signed a memorandum of understanding to advance the establishment of this system, which aims to strengthen financial management, enhance data-driven decision-making, and reinforce the digital backbone of BCDA’s developments. Once implemented, the system will deliver more seamless, secure, and efficient transactions for locators and investors, helping create smarter and more business-friendly communities in Camp John Hay and New Clark City. This initiative supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s push for digitalization and good governance, promoting efficient use of funds and technology to improve public services. “This partnership strengthens our digital backbone. By modernizing our financial management systems, we are enhancing transparency, efficiency, and accountability across our developments,”  BCDA President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang said. The collaboration will initially cover Camp John Hay through the John Hay Management Corporation, with plans to expand to potential digital infrastructure initiatives in New Clark City and other BCDA-managed properties. The project involves creating a modern digital system to improve how financial data is handled across BCDA properties. It will make processes faster and more efficient, strengthen data security, speed up transactions, and provide accurate, real-time information to support better decision-making. Under the agreement, BCDA will support DBP-DCI in undertaking the necessary studies and accessing relevant data, including previously conducted assessments, as well as coordinating with concerned agencies and stakeholders for a period of 12 months.                                

BDO recorded ₱87.2 billion net income in 2025

Business

We find ways. BDO Unibank reported a net income of ₱87.2 billion in 2025, a 6% increase from ₱82.0 billion last year. Highlights: Earnings grew by 6%, driven by expansion in core businesses; ROCE stands at 14.4% Gross loans increased by 13%, supported by double-digit growth across all market segments, reflecting a balanced growth strategy NPL ratio improved to 1.68% with NPL coverage at 133% Capital position remained stable with a CET1 ratio of 13.8%; Book Value Per Share rose 11% to ₱119.03 BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO) delivered a record net income of ₱87.2 billion in 2025, a 6% increase from ₱82.0 billion last year driven by the solid performance of its core businesses. Return on Average Common Equity (ROCE) was reported at 14.4% for the period. Net Interest Income increased by 9% as Gross Customer Loans expanded by 13% to ₱3.7 trillion, supported by double-digit growth across all market segments. Total deposits grew by 10%, with a Current Account/Savings Account (CASA) ratio of 68%. Non-interest income rose by 9%, while income from insurance operations went up by 10%. Asset quality improved, with Non-Performing Loan (NPL) ratio declining to 1.68% from 1.83% in the previous year. NPL coverage stood at 133%. Shareholders’ equity increased by 12% on sustained profitable operations, with Book Value Per Share up by 11% to ₱119.03. The Bank’s Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio was recorded at 13.8%. In 2025, BDO advanced its sustainability initiatives with the successful issuance of its fourth Peso‑denominated ASEAN Sustainability Bond in July. The issuance raised a record ₱115 billion to fund eligible assets under the Bank’s Sustainable Finance Framework, support its lending activities, and further diversify its funding sources. BDO’s market leadership and robust business franchise, supported by a strong balance sheet and solid financial performance, position the Bank well to capture long‑term growth opportunities and emerging prospects.  

Globe AT HOME Launches Home AI with Built‑in Broadband, Guarantees Gold Standard Service

Business

During the latest installment of The Blueprint by Globe, Globe AT HOME unveiled its latest breakthrough in home connectivity: the Home AI with Built‑in Broadband initiative. This innovation integrates fiber ports directly into new property developments, ensuring that homeowners have seamless, high‑speed internet the moment they move in, no waiting, no post-build drilling, just instant internet access to live, work, and play. Globe AT HOME’s vision goes beyond speed, focusing on consistency, reliability, and easy access. With GFiber Plans delivering market‑leading speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps, the latest Wi‑Fi 7 modem, and 5G Wi‑Fi for an always‑on experience, these power homes with Home AI and IoT technologies that dynamically manage bandwidth for flawless connectivity. Whether streaming 8K videos, gaming in high definition, or running smart devices, Globe ensures every household enjoys “Digital Peace of Mind.” To reinforce this promise, Globe AT HOME introduced its Gold Standard Service, anchored on the 24‑Hour Rule. Customers can expect installations, modem-upgrades, or repairs to be completed within 24 hours, supported by proactive care programs that send real‑time alerts through the GlobeOne app. Globe’s dedicated CARE Squad further enhances the experience by optimizing intelligent home ecosystems, while the CARE‑AVan brings on‑the‑spot installations, upgrades, and gadget demos directly to communities. “Globe understands that your time is priceless, which is why our service is built on a simple 24‑Hour Rule. Whether it’s a new line, a modem-upgrade, or a repair, we guarantee resolution within 24 hours. Ultimately, your home deserves a connection as seamless as the life you are building there, and with our experience‑driven products, tech‑led innovations, and robust service guarantee programs, we are delivering more than just fiber, we are delivering an elevated and worry-free digital home experience,” said Abigail Cardino, Vice President and Brand Head of Globe Broadband Business. By eliminating technical friction through innovations like Auto Band Steering and creating a seamless thread between home and mobile data, Globe AT HOME is redefining what connectivity means for Filipino families. The launch at The Blueprint by Globe underscores Globe’s commitment to building a future where connectivity is not just about speed, but about reliability, inclusivity, and empowering households to live dynamically with connectivity you can count on.

Globe Business and Call Center Studio introduce GO Cloud Contact Center to bring AI-powered customer support to Philippine SMEs

Business

  Globe Business Leadership Team together with Call Center Studio Team L-R: Omar Osman, Jonti Cristobal, Erkan Turkkan, Marc Kerveillant, Angie Po, Cenk Soyak, KD Dizon, Mustafa Dogan, Marissa Cahigan, Dennis Wong, Amir Seyf, Bertug Demir   The introduction of GOCCC specifically addresses the evolving needs of Philippine organizations, ranging from burgeoning small and medium businesses to established leaders in the IT-BPM, financial services, healthcare, and retail sectors. While many enterprises rely on outdated on-premise systems that are often expensive to maintain and difficult to scale, GOCCC offers an agile alternative. By removing barriers posed by heavy infrastructure, the platform allows hybrid and remote teams to deploy a sophisticated contact center environment that scales with the business. “In a service-driven economy like the Philippines, the quality of customer engagement is a critical differentiator for any growing enterprise,” said KD Dizon, Vice President and Head of Globe Business. “With the launch of GO Cloud Contact Center, we are moving beyond basic connectivity to provide a platform where AI and omnichannel capabilities are no longer luxury features, but standard tools for local businesses. By modernizing the contact center, we are enabling our partners to meet their customers on any channel they prefer, ensuring that the Filipino brand of service remains competitive, responsive, and future-ready.” A key differentiator is accessibility. By operating on a subscription-based model, GOCCC democratizes access to high-tier technology, enabling organizations to scale their operations precisely alongside their actual requirements and resources. This flexible approach, combined with deployment cycles completed in days rather than weeks, ensures that sophisticated customer experience tools are within reach for enterprises at any stage of their journey. “Cloud technology should not be reserved for large-scale global players alone,” said Cenk Soyak, CEO and Co-Founder of Call Center Studio. “Our partnership with Globe Business brings global expertise and local reliability together, making an AI-driven customer experience achievable for Philippine businesses of all sizes.” Customers also benefit from Globe’s enterprise-grade service-level agreements (SLAs), robust infrastructure, and dedicated support. This partnership provides a secure and reliable foundation for businesses as they scale their operations from legacy setups to more agile, cloud-based operations.        

Globe Promotes Digital Inclusion with High Speed Fiber for the Filipino Mass Market

Business

Globe AT HOME is accelerating its mission to provide high-speed internet to every Filipino household by scaling its fiber footprint through innovative, inclusive, and highly flexible connections. Prioritizing mass-market accessibility and portable technology, Globe is transforming premium connectivity from a luxury into a lifestyle-ready utility for all. Globe’s home broadband business delivered a solid performance in 2025, generating P24.0 billion in revenues. This growth was underpinned by a successful, fiber-led strategy that successfully offset the natural decline of legacy and fixed wireless services. Key 2025 financial and subscriber milestones include: Dominant Fiber Mix: Fiber services now account for 91% of total home broadband revenues, a significant increase from 87% in 2024. Expanding Subscriber Base:The total broadband subscriber base grew to 2.1 million by the end of 2025, up from 1.7 million in the previous year. Wired Connectivity Surge: Fixed wired customers saw a 40% uplift year-on-year, reflecting a strong consumer shift toward stable, high-speed connections. Leading  the Mass-Market Driving Globe’s leadership in the mass market, GFiber Prepaid (GFP) is now the Philippines’ No. 1 and fastest-growing prepaid fiber service. By the end of 2025, the GFP subscriber base surged to over 820,000, successfully democratizing internet access for Filipino families who require high-quality connectivity without the commitment of long-term contracts. To address the evolving demand for “always-on” connectivity, Globe launched the Globe At Home 5G WiFi loop in September 2025. This plug-and-play device which Globe launched first in the world offers fiber-like speeds and unlimited access both at home and on the go. Featuring an Android touchscreen interface and built-in speakers, it represents Globe’s commitment to delivering meaningful innovation that adapts to the portable lifestyles of modern consumers. “Our 2025 performance serves as a powerful springboard into the year ahead,” said Carl Cruz, President and CEO of Globe. “In 2026, we are committed to scaling the reach of GFiber Prepaid and Globe At Home 5G WiFi to meet the diversifying needs of our customers. This reinforces our mission to stay ahead of consumer demand through meaningful innovations that not only improve lives but truly empower the communities we serve.  

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