Lombard Odier, a leading Swiss-based global wealth and asset manager, together with UnionBank Private, has released a new research study exploring emerging trends shaping wealth management in the Philippines and across the broader Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. Entitled “The Wealth Blueprint: Building Wealth, Sustaining Legacy”, the study discusses the evolving behaviors and concerns of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) on wealth management, succession planning, legacy preservation, and investments. The report provides insights from over 390 HNWIs across the APAC region, including UnionBank Private clients and the collective network of Lombard Odier’s Strategic Alliances. Among the key highlights is that, while affluent families recognize the importance of preserving their wealth for future generations, most have not translated their intentions into action. They have no formal frameworks in place or family discussions to iron out differences in priorities and values.  Paradox between family wealth goals and actions taken 80.0% of HNWIs in the Philippines cite preservation of family wealth across generations as their main goal when thinking about passing on or receiving family wealth, the highest across APAC markets surveyed, and compared to a 64.2% APAC average). Maintaining family unity and shared values came in second place at 60.0%. However, the results showed that only 16.7% of respondents in the Philippines have a full succession plan in place, and 10% of HNWIs in the Philippines said their families were fully aligned. These gaps can make critical family decisions more difficult and create challenges in maintaining a unified long-term vision.  Need to bridge intergenerational gap Only 14.3% of Philippines respondents are very confident in the ability of Next Gens to manage family wealth, compared to 16.7% of APAC respondents. The study also uncovered that one in two HNWIs in the Philippines highlighted intergeneration challenges, differing visions for the future, and resistance to change from senior family members as primary concerns. This reiterates the need for properly structured frameworks and open conversations to help families stay aligned and prepare for the future, and are imperative for bridging generational differences and easing decision-making. Many HNWIs are still looking for a trusted wealth management partner who can provide guidance beyond investment management. They are increasingly seeking support to align family goals, prepare the next generation through succession strategies, and safeguard their legacy. Receiving wealth advice can play a significant role in alleviating concerns The report shows a clear correlation between receiving advice and having alignment or governance. For example, a significant 87.5% of APAC respondents who receive professional advice consider their family to have some degree of alignment, compared to 57.8% of those who do not receive advice. Additionally, 50.0% of APAC respondents indicated they do not receive advice believe the absence of a formal structure is a significant challenge in managing their family governance, compared to just 17.2% of respondents who are advised. “The insights from this study highlight a growing need among high-net-worth families for guidance that extends beyond investment management. Through our strategic alliance with Lombard Odier, we are able to better understand our clients’ evolving priorities and support them with tailored solutions that address wealth preservation, succession planning, and legacy building. At UnionBank Private, our ultimate goal is to help clients not only grow their wealth but to secure their family’s future and support them as they create a lasting legacy for generations to come,” said Gauraw Srivastava, UnionBank’s Head of Wealth Management. “Leading families and entrepreneurs in the Philippines are demonstrating greater clarity around their priorities, particularly in relation to long-term investment planning and intergenerational wealth transfer. However, as our findings show, there remains a meaningful gap in translating these intentions into structured, actionable frameworks. Through our Strategic Alliances, we work closely with our partners such as UnionBank Private to help HNWIs in the region bridge this gap, combining local proximity with global investment and wealth planning capabilities to support HNWIs and their families in building resilience, strengthening alignment, and navigating change across generations,” said Vincent Magnenat, Limited Partner, Global Head of Strategic Alliances, Lombard Odier.    

Three award-winning campaigns showcase how SM Supermalls transforms insights into experiences that resonate with Filipino communities. MANILA, Philippines, 8th August 2026 — Great marketing goes beyond capturing attention—it creates genuine connections. At SM Supermalls, every campaign begins with understanding the communities it serves, from celebrating local culture and uncovering consumer insights to creating launches that reflect the identity of a place. This commitment was recognized at the Marketing Excellence Awards 2026, where SM Supermalls received two Gold Awards and one Silver Award, affirming its consumer-first approach to creating meaningful, maxed-out experiences for Filipino communities. Recognized at the 2026 Marketing Excellence Awards, SM Supermalls’ winning campaigns celebrate local culture, deepen consumer understanding, and create meaningful experiences for communities nationwide.   One of the Gold Awards recognized SM Lanang’s Mindanao Art for Excellence in Cultural Storytelling. More than an art initiative, the campaign transformed the mall into a platform for Mindanao’s artists, showcasing local creativity while fostering a deeper appreciation for Mindanao’s rich artistic heritage. By bringing art closer to everyday audiences, SM Lanang created meaningful cultural experiences that resonated beyond the gallery walls. Another Gold Award was given to the SM Supermalls Consumer Insights Program under Excellence in Consumer Insights/Market Research. Built on continuous listening and data-driven consumer understanding, the program enables SM Supermalls to create more relevant experiences, strengthen customer engagement, and respond to the evolving lifestyles of the communities it serves nationwide. Completing the recognition was a Silver Award for the SM City La Union Grand Opening in the Excellence in Launch Marketing category. The campaign went beyond introducing a new mall—it celebrated La Union’s identity and growing community, welcoming residents and visitors with experiences that reflected the province’s vibrant culture while establishing SM City La Union as Northern Luzon’s newest lifestyle destination. “At SM Supermalls, we believe meaningful marketing starts with understanding people,” said Joaquin L. San Agustin, SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing. “Whether we’re celebrating local culture, learning from our customers, or opening new spaces that serve communities, our goal has always been to create experiences that genuinely resonate. These recognitions inspire us to continue creating programs that are relevant, purposeful, and meaningful for every Filipino.” The recognitions reflect SM Supermalls’ continued commitment to creating experiences shaped by insight, inspired by local communities, and anchored in meaningful connections. As the country’s most-loved mall, SM Supermalls remains focused on delivering meaningful, maxed-out experiences that celebrate the people, places, and stories that make every community unique.

An easier and more secure way to pay with iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac   Manila, Philippines — Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) today brings Apple Pay to its cardholders in the Philippines. Apple Pay is an easy, secure, and private way to pay in-store, in-app, and online To pay in-store, customers simply double-click the side button, authenticate, and hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near a payment terminal to make a contactless payment. Every Apple Pay purchase is secure because it is authenticated with Face ID, Touch ID, or device passcode, as well as a one-time unique dynamic security code. Apple Pay is accepted in grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, coffee shops, retail stores, and many more places that accept contactless payments. “As we continue building a next-generation bank, we’re focused on making everyday banking and payments simpler, safer, and more intuitive. Bringing Apple Pay to UnionBank cardholders enhances the payment experience by allowing customers to pay quickly and securely with the devices they use every day. Whether they’re shopping in-store, online, or in-app, customers can enjoy a more seamless way to pay, with the security and convenience they expect from UnionBank.” said UnionBank President and CEO Ana Aboitiz Delgado. Customers can also use Apple Pay on iPhone, iPad, and Mac to make faster and more convenient purchases in apps or on the web without having to create accounts or repeatedly type in contact information, card details, or shipping and billing information. Security and privacy are at the core of Apple Pay. When customers use a credit or debit card with Apple Pay, the actual card numbers are not stored on the device, nor on Apple servers. Instead, a unique Device Account Number is assigned, encrypted, and securely stored in the Secure Element, an industry-standard, certified chip designed to store the payment information safely on the device. Apple Pay is easy to set up. On iPhone, simply open the Wallet app, tap the ‘+’, and follow the steps to add your UnionBank cards. Once a customer adds a card to iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac, they can start using Apple Pay on that device right away. Customers will continue to receive all of the rewards and benefits offered by UnionBank cards.

For decades, expanding internet access and connectivity across an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands has remained one of the Philippines’ greatest infrastructure challenges. Today, sustained investments in digital infrastructure, strong collaboration between government and the private sector, and the launch of satellite-to-mobile technology are bringing the country closer than ever to the shared vision of connecting every Filipino, with 100% internet access now within reach. Recognizing Globe’s contribution to this national effort, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) honored the company with the Digital Bayani sa Last Mile Award and a Special Recognition Award during the culmination of National ICT Month observed all throughout June of 2026, which also marked the agency’s 10th anniversary. The awards recognize Globe’s role in advancing digital transformation, expanding inclusive connectivity, and helping bridge the digital divide. Throughout National ICT Month, DICT underscored the importance of expanding digital access through stronger collaboration across government, industry, and communities, recognizing that meaningful connectivity is key to building a more inclusive digital future. “We are now close to achieving 100% internet access nationwide, a milestone we expect to reach by the end of July. This progress is the result of sustained investments, innovation, and strong collaboration between government and the private sector, as we continue working to turn the long-standing vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. into reality,” said DICT Secretary Henry Aguda. Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz said the recognition affirms the importance of collaboration, especially for heavy investments in digital infrastructure. “Connectivity creates opportunities. It helps students learn, enables businesses to grow, empowers families, and gives communities access to essential services. We are honored by this recognition from the DICT, and we will continue investing in advanced technologies and partnerships to further improve the digital experience all over the country.” Globe continues to invest in the infrastructure needed to support the country’s growing digital economy. In 2025 alone, the company deployed more than 1,500 new 5G sites and added over 115,000 fiber-to-the-home lines, extending reliable connectivity to more communities. While terrestrial networks remain the foundation of the country’s digital infrastructure, Globe is expanding connectivity beyond traditional mobile coverage through Globe Starlink. By complementing its existing network with satellite-powered mobile connectivity, the company is helping extend access to remote locations while strengthening network resiliency, bringing the country closer to fulfilling universal connectivity. These efforts support the government’s broader Digital Backbone agenda, led by the Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project (PDIP), which aims to build, expand, and integrate high-capacity national fiber-optic networks across the country. Together, these initiatives are helping provide faster, more affordable, and more resilient internet connectivity to Filipinos from the northernmost provinces to the southernmost communities. As the DICT marks a decade of advancing the country’s digital transformation, Globe remains committed to investing in technologies and partnerships to ensure that more Filipinos, wherever they are, can stay connected and participate in the country’s digital future.

From cloud infrastructure to seamless satellite-to-mobile connectivity via Starlink, organizations are building absolute operational continuity.   As organizations revisit their Business Continuity Plans (BCPs) amid growing operational, infrastructure, and cybersecurity risks, Globe Business, the enterprise arm of Globe, is encouraging enterprises to move beyond traditional, single-point BCPs and adopt holistic, multi-layered resilience strategies. These approaches help ensure that critical systems, communications, and operations remain available even during unexpected disruptions. Historically, BCPs are centered on redundant connectivity and data recovery capabilities. Today disruptions can extend far beyond technology systems, affecting how employees communicate, how operations are coordinated, and how quickly organizations can respond to changing conditions. One of the biggest challenges organizations face during disruptions is maintaining reliable communications when local infrastructure is affected. To help address this need, Globe Business has integrated Globe Starlink into its enterprise resilience portfolio. The satellite-powered connectivity solution provides organizations with an additional layer of communication that can support operations when terrestrial infrastructure is temporarily unavailable due to natural disasters, power interruptions, or other localized disruptions. “Business continuity today is about ensuring organizations can continue operating and communicating during disruptions,” said Marlon Cruz, Globe Business Assistant Vice President. “Many companies have already strengthened their cloud and cybersecurity capabilities, but maintaining connectivity when local infrastructure is affected remains a challenge.” Unlike traditional satellite services that require dedicated equipment or specialized devices, Globe Starlink enables compatible LTE smartphones to connect to satellite coverage when terrestrial networks are unavailable. This capability can help organizations support business-critical communications, particularly for personnel operating in remote locations or areas affected by service disruptions where reliable connectivity is essential. The growing importance of communication resilience is prompting organizations across industries to reassess how they approach business continuity. Beyond protecting data and applications, enterprises are looking at ways to ensure employees, field teams, and decision-makers remain connected during periods of disruption.

      MAKATI CITY, Philippines — AdventEnergy, the retail electricity supply arm of Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower), agreed to aggregate and supply clean power to 153 branches of China Banking Corporation (Chinabank), the fourth largest private universal bank in the Philippines. More than 30% of the bank’s branch network across Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Metro Manila will be supplied primarily with 2 megawatts of renewable energy, marking one of the biggest partnerships of a retail electricity supplier and a banking institution to date. The partnership also extends a long-standing relationship between AdventEnergy and the SM Group, which holds majority ownership of Chinabank, aligning with the latter’s broader sustainability and strategic energy contracting efforts to advance its sustainability goals. The aggregation of power demand was made possible through the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) Retail Aggregation Program (RAP), which allows eligible businesses and institutions to pool the demand of multiple facilities and participate in the competitive retail electricity market. “In line with our commitment to support the development of renewable energy projects in the country, Chinabank believes that its own operational electricity should be sourced from renewable alternatives whenever possible,” said Chinabank President and Chief Executive Officer Romeo D. Uyan, Jr. “Our partnership with AdventEnergy enables us to secure clean energy, reduce our carbon footprint, and actively build a more sustainable future.” Amidst volatile global fuel costs, the retail aggregation supply deal not only supports the bank’s sustainability initiative but also allows for cost-saving measures and more predictable financial planning. “AdventEnergy intends to deliver integrated and sustainable energy solutions that are always-on, always reliable, and always ready to meet the needs of the industries we serve,” said AdventEnergy Vice President for Retail Energy Sales and Services Catherine Del Villar-Pasilaban. The deal also reflects the continued expansion and adoption of the ERC’s customer choice programs, complementing the recent implementation of Phase IV of retail competition and open access (RCOA), which lowered the contestability threshold from 500 kilowatts in monthly peak demand to just 100. AdventEnergy continues to support these programs especially for a wider base of Philippine businesses, including those in critical sectors such as banking and finance. “As contestability thresholds continue to lower under the ERC’s programs, and more eligible customers are able to enjoy the power of control and choice, we want to be the partner that institutions can count on to navigate this shift with confidence,” said Del Villar-Pasilaban. AdventEnergy already powers SM Group’s diverse operations – from malls, banks, schools, and retail establishments to its affiliated companies – through a comprehensive suite of energy solutions aligned with the Electric Power Industry Reform Act’s (EPIRA) customer choice initiatives including distributed energy resources, RCOA, and RAP.        

Strengthen Northern Luzon trade, Luzon Economic Corridor   LA UNION, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has taken a major step toward the modernization of the Poro Point Seaport in La Union after signing a contract agreement for project preparation and transaction advisory services, paving the way for the redevelopment of the seaport into a world-class logistics and trade gateway for Northern Luzon. The agreement was signed by BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang on Friday, July 17, 2026, together with the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center of the Philippines and the joint venture of Isla Lipana & Co. and Cabrera & Co., which will provide technical, financial, and transaction advisory support for the project. The consultancy contract, valued at Php 68.08 million, is funded through the PPP Center’s Project Development and Monitoring Facility (PDMF) under an Asian Development Bank (ADB) loan. Over a 655-day implementation period, the consultant will undertake market assessment, feasibility studies, project structuring, government approval support, bidding and transaction advisory services, and post-signing assistance to prepare the project for successful implementation under the PPP framework. “This milestone reflects BCDA’s commitment to building infrastructure that connects markets, attracts investments, and creates more opportunities for Filipinos. Modernizing the Poro Point Seaport will strengthen Northern Luzon’s logistics network while supporting the country’s long-term economic growth,” Engr. Bingcang said. The modernization project will transform the existing bulk and break-bulk terminal into a modern, fully containerized international seaport equipped with advanced terminal operating and automation systems, state-of-the-art cargo-handling equipment, and upgraded logistics infrastructure. The project is envisioned to improve cargo handling efficiency, reduce vessel turnaround times, optimize terminal operations, and strengthen the country’s supply chain competitiveness. The total project cost for the modernization of the Poro Point Seaport will be determined upon completion of the project preparation phase, when the final scope, technical requirements, and commercial structure are established. BCDA is targeting the start of construction in the second quarter of 2027, with project completion expected by 2029. The project also advances the broader Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) initiative, which seeks to strengthen connectivity among Subic Bay, Clark, Manila, and Batangas through coordinated investments in transport, logistics, energy, and digital infrastructure. As Northern Luzon’s primary international seaport, Poro Point is envisioned to complement these growth centers by providing an additional strategic gateway for trade and investment, further enhancing the country’s position in regional and global supply chains. The initiative is aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.‘s Build Better More infrastructure program and the administration’s vision of developing world-class infrastructure that promotes regional development, expands socioeconomic opportunities, and strengthens the Philippines’ competitiveness. Also present during the signing ceremony were PPP Center Executive Director Rizza Blanco Latorre, PPP Center Deputy Executive Director Eleazar E. Ricote, PwC Philippines Managing Partner Mary Jade T. Roxas-Divinagracia, and Poro Point Management Corp. President and Chief Executive Officer Servillano C. Flores Jr. The modernization of the Poro Point Seaport forms part of BCDA’s continuing efforts to develop future-ready infrastructure that strengthens the country’s logistics backbone, attracts private investments, and creates new opportunities for businesses and communities. Together with BCDA’s flagship developments in Clark, New Clark City, and other strategic economic zones, the project reinforces the government’s vision of building a more connected, competitive, and investment-ready Philippines.      

BDO Unibank, Inc. (“BDO” or the “Bank”) disclosed that it has shortened the offer period for its sixth Peso-denominated ASEAN Sustainability Bonds issue. Originally set to run from July 9 to 21, 2026, the Bank decided to close the offer period early, on July 10, 2026, following strong demand from both retail and institutional investors. The Bank’s latest ASEAN Sustainability Bonds have a tenor of one-and-a-half (1.5) years and bear a coupon rate of 6.26% per annum. The issue, settlement, and listing date will be on July 28, 2026. The net proceeds of the issuance are intended to finance and/or refinance eligible assets as defined in the Bank’s Sustainable Finance Framework, support the Bank’s lending activities, and diversify the Bank’s funding sources. ING Bank N.V., Manila Branch (“ING”) is the Sole Arranger and Sustainability Coordinator of this issuance, with BDO and ING as Selling Agent and BDO Capital & Investment Corporation as Financial Advisor.

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has once again earned its place among the top-performing government-owned and-controlled corporations (GOCC) in the country, following its dividend remittance amounting to P2.6 billion this year. This sustained performance reflects BCDA’s commitment to good governance, fiscal discipline, and creating lasting value for the Filipino people. During the GOCC Day celebration at Malacañang on 08 July 2026, BCDA was recognized as one of only 15 state-run corporations in the prestigious “Billionaires’ Club,” composed of GOCCs that remitted more than Php1 billion in dividends to the Bureau of the Treasury. “This recognition is a testament to BCDA’s unwavering commitment to responsible governance and fiscal discipline. Every dividend we remit represents the value we create through strategic investments and sustainable development. As we continue transforming former military lands into centers of economic growth, we remain focused on delivering greater returns to the government, supporting national development priorities, and creating more opportunities for Filipinos,” said BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., during the ceremony, commended GOCCs for its role in strengthening the country’s fiscal position and supporting programs that benefit Filipinos. “Every peso that you have remitted strengthens the government’s capacity to deliver better services without imposing additional tax burden on ordinary Filipinos. It is proof that sound governance and fiscal responsibility can create opportunities for our people while sparing them from bearing greater financial sacrifice,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said. This year, 50 GOCCs are expected to remit a record Php147.15 billion in dividends to the national government. Of this amount, Php139.8 billion has already been collected, surpassing the previous year’s level by 29 percent. President Marcos Jr. said these funds are enough to build 40,000 classrooms, 165,000 homes, or 9,300 kilometers of farm-to-market roads. “Every dividend [GOCCs] remit strengthens the capacity of the government to invest in the future of the Filipino people,” Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go said. “These dividends do more than strengthen our public finances. They help expand investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other programs that support our country’s progress.” BCDA subsidiaries, namely Clark Development Corporation, Clark International Airport Corporation, Poro Point Management Corporation, and John Hay Management Corporation were likewise recognized for their strong financial performance and valuable contributions to nation-building. They remitted dividends amounting to Php2.597 billion, Php585.71 million, Php16.67 million, and Php11.51 million, respectively. Beyond its dividend remittance, BCDA also contributed Php3.09 billion to the Bureau of the Treasury this year, bulk of which is in support of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program, reinforcing its mandate to help build a stronger economy while advancing national security.