MANILA, Philippines – In celebration of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Globe Business is reintroducing its flagship thought leadership series, Technically Speaking, with an all-new format and a strong focus on cybersecurity. This series is designed to equip Philippine enterprises with the knowledge and strategies needed to build a secure and resilient future in the face of constant digital disruption and escalating cyber threats. In today’s digital economy, where innovation and risk go hand in hand, Globe Business reminds local enterprises that the greatest competitive advantage is the courage to transform securely. With the Philippine ICT market projected to reach USD 45.67 billion by 2029, the stakes are high. However, a significant readiness gap remains, as only 6% of local enterprises have mature cybersecurity systems. This leaves many vulnerable to threats like phishing and ransomware, which are two of the fastest-growing threats in the country. Globe Business has chosen the podcast medium for this new season of Technically Speaking to create a more personal and accessible experience for business leaders. The long-form, on-demand nature of podcasts allows for in-depth, conversational discussions that go beyond the surface of a typical webinar. This strategic pivot to a more relatable platform is Globe Business’s way of addressing customer concerns and making it easier to integrate critical cybersecurity knowledge into the busy schedules of C-suite executives and senior leaders. The series is hosted by the Business Solutions Consulting team led by Marlon Cruz, AVP for Consulting & Architecture at Globe Business. At its core, his team focuses on solutions consultancy, working directly with enterprises to craft specialized ICT strategies in key areas such as cloud modernization, business solutions applications, data & analytics, and robust connectivity. With security as a non-negotiable core, they focus on helping businesses transform and innovate with confidence. Cruz’s role as host allows him to provide a public preview of the deep, actionable insights his team delivers, reinforcing the value of partnering with Globe Business to address specific challenges. “The reality is that digital growth without cybersecurity is unsustainable,” said Cruz. “Our goal is to equip leaders not just with knowledge, but with a clear roadmap for resilience. By integrating security from the start, enterprises can pursue innovation with confidence, knowing they are prepared for the threats of tomorrow.” Adding to this, KD Dizon, Head of Globe Business, highlights the company’s role as a trusted partner. With unparalleled access to the digital transformation challenges faced by businesses across various industries, including cybersecurity, Globe Business holds a unique vantage point—seeing both the macro trends of the evolving landscape and the granular details of real-world scenarios. This hands-on experience has allowed Globe to develop a wealth of proven solutions, case studies, and best practices that continue to grow, strengthening its credibility. “Our commitment to our partners is to serve as a strategic guide on their journey, fueled by our continuous learning from the field,” said Dizon. “This new podcast format is a direct reflection of that dedication, ensuring we deliver meaningful insights and build a more resilient digital Philippines, one enterprise at a time.” The series kicked off on October 7 with a session on Data Analytics, highlighting how a strong data foundation, when paired with integrated security, enables trusted insights that fuel smarter decisions and sustained growth. The spotlight will turn to Integrated Cyber Resilience on October 16, providing enterprises with the tools to withstand and recover from attacks while protecting customer trust and ensuring business continuity. Future sessions will explore Enterprise AI governance on October 23 and Cloud Modernization on November 12, giving leaders a comprehensive framework for building secure and scalable digital strategies. Globe Business invites enterprises to take part in the remaining Technically Speaking sessions this October and begin charting their path to resilience. Beyond the webinars, organizations are also encouraged to work closely with Globe Business in shaping secure, future-ready strategies that will allow them to thrive in the face of disruption.        

Keppel Ltd. (Keppel) is pleased to announce that the Bifrost Cable System (Bifrost) has officially achieved Ready for Service (RFS) status and will now gear up to carry commercial traffic in the coming weeks. Bifrost is the world’s first subsea cable system directly linking Singapore to the west coast of USA via Indonesia through the Java Sea and Celebes Sea. Spanning over 20,000 km, the cable system is engineered to support AI workloads, cloud-native platforms, and real-time digital services, offering a round-trip latency of just under 165 milliseconds between Singapore and the USA—up to 10 milliseconds faster than many existing systems. By charting a new route across the Pacific, Bifrost also introduces more than 260 Tbps of additional capacity and enhances the resiliency of one of the world’s most active digital corridors. Mr Manjot Singh Mann, CEO, Connectivity, Keppel, said, “Keppel is proud to announce that the Bifrost Cable System has achieved Ready for Service status. This landmark project will bolster digital connectivity between Southeast Asia and the USA. The Bifrost Cable System will reinforce Singapore’s position as a leading digital hub in Asia and support the region’s rapidly growing digital economy. We look forward to expanding our subsea cable footprint across Asia and beyond, as an integrated ecosystem partner to global cloud players and technology leaders.” Keppel has been assigned five out of a total of 12 fibre pairs in Bifrost. The five fibre pairs are jointly owned by Keppel and its private fund co-investors through a 40-60 joint venture. Bifrost lands in Singapore, Guam, and Grover Beach, California, with branching units extending connectivity to Jakarta and Manado in Indonesia, Davao in the Philippines, and Winema, Oregon in the USA, enabling dynamic traffic routing and robust regional interconnection. Over in Davao, Converge Information and Communications Technology Solutions, Inc. (Converge) will be the landing party. Mr Dennis Anthony Uy, CEO of Converge, said, “The Philippines is in a prime location being in the centre of the region, so this critical digital infrastructure – the Bifrost Cable System – is envisioned to support the booming connectivity needs of the Asia-Pacific region and provide an important direct link with the US. This will not only boost the company’s international bandwidth capacity, but for the Philippines, it will mean redundancy and diversity in network infrastructure to power the country’s digital journeys.” Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN), a global leader in the development of subsea cable systems, carried out the construction of Bifrost. Mr Alain Biston, CEO of ASN, said, “We are very proud to have been selected by Keppel and its partners to deliver this landmark project across the Pacific. Reaching this new milestone is a testament to the hard work of ASN teams working hand in hand with our client to bring Bifrost to Ready for Service.” With Bifrost on track to go live in the coming weeks, the system is expected to play a pivotal role in supporting the next wave of digital transformation, enhancing the resilience of regional digital infrastructure, and strengthening global data exchange.  

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has given the subsidiaries of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) here the permission to extend its operation of the New Container Terminals (NCTs) for another 25 years. The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed at the ACEA Subic Beach Resort in Subic Bay Freeport on October 3, 2025, for the “25-year Extension of Contract for the Operation and Management of the NCT.” SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño stated that the ICTSI subsidiaries, Subic Bay International Terminals Corp. (SBICT) and ICTSI Subic Inc. (ISI), will continue to operate and manage the New Container Terminals 1 and 2 (NCT-1 and NCT-2). Aliño and ICTSI Executive Vice President Christian Gonzalez both signed the MOA, witnessed by SBITC Vice Chairman Juan Miguel Delgado and SBMA Director Honorio Allado III. The MOA will allow the SBITC and ICTSI to operate and manage NCT-1 and 2 until the year 2058. SBITC plans to invest over USD$130 million in civil infrastructure and additional equipment as part of its investment and development plan under the extended concession. These will include the replacement of the terminal’s four existing quay cranes and acquisition of one additional quay crane, increasing the total to five, as well as the integration of more hybrid rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes. According to VP Gonzalez, these investments will further enhance terminal capabilities, boost operational efficiency, and increase the combined annual capacity of NCT-1 and NCT-2 from 600,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) to one million TEUs. “We are thankful to SBMA for trusting us and treating us as the right partner to continue until 2058. Across all the 30-plus terminals we operate around the world, no matter how difficult the place, no matter how challenging, the one thing that represents the trust in ICTSI and the partnership with the local authorities–the government and the regulators–is seeing your contract extended,” he added. The NCT serves as a critical international shipping gateway for industries in Central and Northern Luzon, including the economic zones of Subic and Clark. Part of the expansion and upgrades includes the SBITC’s increase in reefer plug capacity to 1,000 by the end of 2025 to support cold chain logistics. Recent additions to its fleet include near-zero emission (NZE) rubber-tired gantry cranes, tractors, and trailers to improve terminal efficiency. Plans are also underway to automate gate operations by early 2026 and implement a new digital platform for online payments and truck appointments.          

Camp John Hay’s iconic landmark set for transformation into a sustainable commercial hub   CAMP JOHN HAY, Baguio City, Philippines — In a move that blends heritage preservation with sustainable development, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has entered into a long-term lease agreement with the consortium of Istana Development Corp. (IDC) and Meridian Commercial Centers, Inc. (MCCI) for the sustainable redevelopment of the Mile-Hi property in Camp John Hay, Baguio City. The agreement, signed on 6 October 2025, represents a Php560-million investment aimed at restoring and transforming the 6,647-square-meter property into an upscale commercial hub that honors Camp John Hay’s rich history while promoting local economic growth. “Mile-Hi will once again be a place that welcomes visitors, strengthens local livelihoods, and sustains the spirit of Baguio for generations to come,” BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said during the signing today. Meanwhile, Jesus Emmanuel Yujuico expressed the organization’s commitment to the project, highlighting its pledge to work with both BCDA and John Hay Management Corporation. “We thank BCDA’s leadership for its confidence in our vision that seeks to balance heritage, sustainability, and innovation,” Mr. Yujuico said. The partnership aims to restore, rehabilitate, and transform the property into an upscale commercial hub, while preserving its historical significance and enhancing the natural and built environment of the surrounding area. Under the agreement, the consortium committed to incorporating sustainable design features aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, water and energy consumption, and waste generation. These features may include maximizing access to natural light, enhancing natural ventilation, implementing thermally efficient building designs and envelopes, integrating solar-oriented architecture, and incorporating green roofs and walls. Additional strategies may involve water-sensitive urban design, the use of low-water-demand plant species in landscaping, and avoiding water- and chemical-intensive facilities, such as swimming pools. The Mile Hi property, named for its unique elevation approximately one mile above sea level, holds a special place in Camp John Hay’s history. Once a popular indoor recreation center featuring a bowling alley, billiard and ping-pong tables, arcade games, and a fondly remembered snack bar, the site is poised for a new chapter. Also present during the signing event were IDC Chairperson Benedicto V. Yujuico, IDC Chief Operating Officer Christopher Dy, and BCDA Executive Vice President and COO Atty. Gisela Z. Kalalo.        

Converge ICT Solutions Inc. (Converge), the Philippines’ leading broadband and technology provider, has unveiled Content Plus, an innovative in-room entertainment solution specifically designed to elevate the guest experience in hotels and healthcare facilities. Poised to transform how businesses engage their guests while enhancing operational efficiency, Content Plus leverages the 100% fiber network and HD channel assets provided through its network. Content Plus is a robust solution that provides tailored HD channel packages and enables seamless integration with a hotel’s Property Management System (PMS). A key capability is its integrated in-room e-commerce, which allows guests to conveniently order food and services directly from their rooms. These charges are automatically posted to the guest’s folio, streamlining hotel operations and enhancing the overall guest experience. The solution also provides an intuitive interface for guests to access their preferred Over-The-Top (OTT) subscriptions, creating a personalized entertainment experience. “Our mission is to empower the hospitality industry in its quest for a superior guest experience,” said Paulo Martin “Santi” Santos, Converge Chief Technology Officer. “By leveraging our robust fiber network, we provide a holistic solution that delivers premium digital content and enables seamless integration with their property management systems. This allows our hospitality partners to not only delight their guests but also significantly enhance their operational efficiency.” Converge is dedicated to helping the hospitality sector navigate its evolving landscape. The introduction of Content Plus serves as a prime example of this commitment, offering a bespoke solution that combines premium content with seamless integration capabilities. The platform gives establishments the tools they need to enhance the guest experience, boost productivity, and secure a competitive edge in a demanding market. Key Features of Content Plus: Access to top-tier Skycable HD channels such as HBO, Warner Bros, CNN and more delivered on the high-speed, reliable fiber network of Converge. Intuitive integration with existing Property Management System (PMS) systems to streamline hotel operations and improve guest convenience. E-commerce functionality for in-room ordering, boosting in-room service revenues. Compatibility with popular over-the-top (OTT) content platforms to meet diverse guest preferences. Impact Across the Hospitality Sector With guest satisfaction increasingly tied to seamless digital experiences, Content Plus caters to rising expectations for both quality entertainment and innovative services. This solution enables hoteliers to modernize amenities while driving operational efficiency during high-occupancy periods and seasonal demand cycles. Converge is a premier fiber-powered connectivity provider in the country, committed to delivering seamless connectivity solutions and innovative technology tailored to diverse industries. With a robust presence across the country and a mission to enhance connectivity, Converge continues to pioneer solutions that redefine the digital experience for enterprises and individuals. For more information, visit www.convergeict.com Hospitality businesses interested in modernizing their guest experience and driving operational efficiency can request a personalized presentation of Content Plus by emailing globalbusiness@convergeict.com

MANILA, Philippines — Globe Business has successfully convened the country’s top digital leaders for the second run of “Cyberheist.” This high-impact cybersecurity experience immersed executives in real-world cybersecurity challenges and equipped them with strategies to confront emerging threats. As the only platform of its kind in the country, Cyberheist featured expert-led sessions, consultations, and hands-on simulations to provide leaders with a clear roadmap for strengthening their defenses in a digital-first economy. This directly addresses a critical market disconnect, as shown by recent data. According to cyber defense company BlueVoyant, 65% of Filipino organizations view cyber risk as only a minor priority, despite over 80% experiencing cybersecurity breaches. With only 6% reaching a “mature level” of cybersecurity readiness, companies face growing burdens from human error and fragmented cybersecurity tools, leading to blind spots and lower threat response capabilities. The event’s morning session was led by Robert S. Paguia, Division Chief of International Cooperation on Cybercrime and Data Protection Officer (DPO) at the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC). He focused on regulatory imperatives and actionable steps for organizations. “In today’s digital world, protecting personal data is the proxy for trust,” Pagiua stated, emphasizing the crucial link between security and customer confidence. Paguia was joined by Oliver Patron, Assistant Director for Cybersecurity at Globe Business, who presented a strategic framework for building resilient business operations through network, platform, and cybersecurity integration. He highlighted Globe Business’s commitment to foundational strength, noting that the organization is continuously strengthening its network to deliver faster, more reliable connectivity, so customers’ cyber infrastructure can keep up with today’s fast-paced and demanding market. The session also welcomed Emmanuel Barcena,, President and CEO of the Philippine Clearing House Corporation (PCHC), who shared a compelling case study of successful collaboration with Globe Business to fortify defenses as the country’s sole check-clearing house. ”No single organization can stand alone.  Through our partnership with Globe Business, we tap into capabilities from simulation to response and strategic advisory support,” he noted. “This initiative reflects Globe Business’s commitment to going above and beyond for our partners. Through programs like Cyberheist we are empowering organizations to evaluate their existing defenses, identify cost-effective strategies, and build readiness for evolving regulations,” said KD Dizon, Head of Globe Business. The afternoon program offered immersive cybersecurity escape rooms that simulated real-world risks, providing attendees with hands-on experience. Experts from Globe Business’s Solutions Consulting team offered personalized consultations to help companies map strong cybersecurity strategies. The event showcased solutions from partners, including Incident Management Response from Sophos, Data Loss Prevention from Proofpoint, and Web Application Firewall from Akamai, all aimed at helping organizations fortify their defenses. Organizations can take the first step toward proactive cybersecurity by exploring Globe Business’s comprehensive ICT solutions.  The company’s regional roadshows, product demos, and consultations are available to help businesses enhance their digital defenses.        

  Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB) earned two international recognitions at the 2025 ESGBusiness Awards in Malaysia for “Sustainable Transportation” and “Diversity & Inclusion”, placing the airline among top Asian companies for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) excellence. The ESGBusiness Awards is one of the region’s premier platforms recognizing organizations that set benchmarks in corporate social responsibility, diversity and inclusion, and sustainable growth. “As Cebu Pacific grows, we want affordable travel to also create a positive impact for people and communities,” said Candice Iyog, CEB Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer. “Inclusivity and sustainability remain central to how we shape the future of travel.” CEB has long been a leader in workplace inclusivity. It was the first airline in Southeast Asia to receive Great Place to Work® certification in 2024 and among the first to hire openly transgender cabin crew. The airline also surpasses global benchmarks for women in leadership, runs internship programs for neurodiverse students, and extends health and travel benefits to same-sex and common-law partners. “Our workforce—spanning 31 nationalities, 15 employee groups, and people of all genders, faiths, and abilities—enables Cebu Pacific to adapt, grow, and deliver for our customers. This recognition belongs to our teammates who support and uplift one another. At Cebu Pacific, we don’t just move people; we move progress,” said Felix Lopez, CEB Chief Human Resources Officer. The carrier has also taken significant steps in sustainability by modernizing its fleet and adopting fuel-efficient practices. CEB ranked 18th among global carriers in the Cirium Flight Emissions Review 2024, posting one of the industry’s lowest carbon intensities at 62.4 grams of CO₂ per available seat kilometer. With one of the youngest fleets in Asia, CEB saved nearly 50 million kilograms of fuel and avoided more than 150,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions last year. CEB also remains the only low-cost carrier (LCC) in Southeast Asia to secure a sustainability-linked loan (SLL), directly tying its financing terms to its emission-reduction goals. “Sustainability is integral to Cebu Pacific’s growth strategy,” said Aileen Isidro, Vice President for CEB Corporate Strategy and Risk Officer. “By aligning affordable travel with responsible operations, we ensure that our expansion is both competitive and future-ready.” With a network spanning 36 domestic and 27 international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, CEB continues to strengthen its role as a champion of inclusive and sustainable travel, while staying true to its mission of providing affordable and accessible flights for every Juan.          

The Philippines is at a pivotal moment in its digital journey. Demand for speed, reliability, and reach is more urgent than ever. It’s clear that traditional infrastructure models can no longer carry the weight of what the country aspires to become: a regional hub for connectivity, cloud, and content. The problem isn’t ambition; it’s coordination. The very networks meant to connect people and ideas are often built in silos, but solo runs won’t win the future. It will be shaped by ecosystems that share, scale, and build together. This vision of shared infrastructure sat at the heart of a breakout session during the 2025 Globe Business G Summit. The session, “Unlocking Powerful Connections to Fuel the Future of Philippine Infrastructure,” convened industry leaders to challenge the status quo. The objective was to co-envision a country where fiber grids, data centers, and cable systems no longer compete for territory. They issued a call for the industry to work in sync to serve the nation at scale. Globe Business’ Wholesale Division, through Vice President Cocoy Claravall, outlined this strategy in motion. From new Festoon loops in Luzon to expanded subsea capacity via the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) and Asia Link Cable, Globe presented a roadmap that places reach and transparency at the core. Central to this strategy is the Managed Optical Fiber Network (MOFN), a model that allows hyperscalers and carriers to tailor their connections without losing the benefits of a managed service. ProAssure, a proactive platform designed to preempt issues before they affect customers, was also discussed as part of this shift toward more intelligent and accountable infrastructure. “Our role has expanded. We’re no longer just connecting endpoints anymore,” said Claravall. “We’re enabling ecosystems from subsea to cloud, from enterprise to end user. And that means building infrastructure that’s flexible and future-ready.” Ciena’s Head of Sales Engineering in ASEAN, Kian Soon Wong brought a technical lens to the discussion, demonstrating how MOFN and Managed Spectrum enable customers to move beyond fixed contracts and build networks to scale as needed around real needs. The model empowers clients to choose their own equipment, monitor network health in real time, and scale on demand, all while the operator handles the heavy lifting of deployment and maintenance. “MOFN is about balance,” Wong explained. “It gives customers control without the operational burden, and gives operators like Globe a way to deliver more agile services. It’s a collaboration model—not just a tech solution.” From the data center side, STT GDC Philippines CEO Carlo Malana spoke of how the country is gaining traction as a hyperscale destination. He pointed to STT GDC’s Cavite and Fairview campuses as proof points for hyperscalers looking to deploy AI and cloud workloads in-country. “The runway is long and the momentum is building,” Malana said. “Philippine infrastructure is no longer aspirational, it’s operational. The question now is how we scale that responsibly and fast enough to meet demand.” For Globe, the role of a telco is no longer just to connect, it’s to co-create. KD Dizon, Head of Globe Business, emphasized that this is not just a commercial opportunity but a national one. “Infrastructure is more than physical assets, it’s about trust, alignment, and the will to build beyond our individual interests,” Dizon said. “If we want real digital progress in the Philippines, we need to co-create the grid that will carry it.” The session closed with a Disruptor Dialogue featuring Claravall, Wong, Malana, and Globe’s Janice Ortega. The conversation dug deeper into what it would take for the Philippines to compete in a world shaped by AI and real-time applications: seamless interconnection, policy alignment, and joint investments across multiple players. The message was clear: this is no longer a one-player game. Infrastructure must now be approached as a shared national grid. And the Philippines, with the proper coordination, is ready to lead it

  MANILA, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has emerged as the sixth top-performing government-owned and -controlled corporation (GOCC) in the country, achieving its highest-ever ranking to date following its record-high remittance amounting to Php5.33 billion this year. BCDA was among the state-owned corporations recognized during the GOCC day on 16 September 2025, which was led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the Malacañang Palace. During the ceremony, BCDA emerged as the 6th top performing GOCC, having contributed Php5.33 billion in dividends as of 12 September 2025—funds that help drive government programs for inclusive growth and development. “This milestone is a testament to the BCDA’s steadfast commitment to spur progress and  inclusive development for the Filipino people. It is a reflection of our responsibility to ensure that every peso we generate is translated into nation-building initiatives that uplift communities and strengthen our economy,” said BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang. “We strive to continue this momentum as we continue our mandate of shaping former military baselands into world-class cities and economic hubs,” he added. As of 12 September 2025, GOCCs have collectively turned over Php116.84 billion in dividends to the Treasury, further empowering the national government to sustain socioeconomic initiatives across the country. Other leading dividend contributor during the period were Land Bank of the Philippines (Php33.5 billion); Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Php18.9 billion); Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Php12.7 billion); Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (Php10.1 billion); Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (Php9 billion); Philippine Ports Authority (Php5.2 billion); Manila International Airport Authority (Php3.3 billion); Clark Development Corporation (Php2.5 billion); and Philippine National Oil Company (Php2.4 billion). Other BCDA subsidiaries, namely Clark International Airport Corporation, John Hay Management Corporation, and Poro Point Management Corporation also remitted dividends amounting to Php282.72 million, Php14.33 million, and Php11.06 million, respectively. President Marcos acknowledged the contributions made by GOCCs in nation-building, and advancing inclusive and sustainable growth in the country. “For decades now, our GOCCs have been instruments of growth, equity, and empowerment. And through their contributions, we have built infrastructure, expanded services, invested in communities—especially those that have long been marginalized,” President Marcos said. Finance Secretary Ralph G Recto, for his part, underscored the duty of GOCCs to honor every service, every policy, and every peso they extend to the Filipino people. “Let us renew our covenant: to serve the Filipino people with excellence, to be not only earners of revenue but enablers of growth, guardians of public trust, and builders of a more prosperous Philippines,” he said.