By Rizza Hull   LA TRINIDAD — Popular on a street in Barangay Pico, La Trinidad, a wall that at first glance looks like just a hole that needs to be repaired is now popular, but if you peek inside, you will see a unique café that is now being visited and talked about. This is a so-called “hole-in-the-wall” café, where you order from a hole in the wall and your order will come out through said hole. The newly opened Café in the Hole is owned by Samantha Kyzyl Edoc, 22, who began a soft opening on March 31. Samantha graduated from Nursing at Easter College Inc. and instead of immediately entering the profession, she chose to build her own café as an extra income. Samantha is no stranger to running a business because she has learned how to be a businessperson since she was a child. She started by looking after the store, until she tried selling various products online while studying, and now she has her own café. From these trials, she discovered her passion. “That’s really what my heart loves, my passion, is serving.”, said Samantha. Samantha was inspired by the cafés she saw on social media—that’s why she decided to open her own. This included the “hole-in-the-wall” concept that she had only seen online from a café in Manila. “I was just watching it on the internet, and then I thought, what if I could do that kind of concept too.”, she said. Because of its unique concept, it became an attraction in their barangay. It was popular with people, especially customers. “We bought it here because it’s unique here in La Trinidad,” said Nicole Soo, a first-time customer. Aside from the design, one of the reasons why people visit is the affordable prices of their products, which is perfect for students. Despite her successful business today, one of the challenges for Samantha is still keeping up with the number of customers. “We don’t have enough employees, so we’re always in line and we’re only two or three, it’s like three is still not enough. That’s why we’re really struggling because it’s taking us a long time to place an order,” Samantha said. From a simple idea and a hole in the wall, a business was born that has captured the hearts of the community. For Samantha, this is not just a café—it’s a symbol of fulfilling dreams and proving that even behind a small hole, great success can peek through.

Globe is expanding access to reliable telecom services in rural communities with a cost-efficient green technology that addresses long-standing barriers to digital inclusion. For years, delivering mobile coverage to far-flung areas demanded substantial investments in large-scale macro cell sites, where the high costs of equipment, site leasing or acquisition, and maintenance made reliable 2G and LTE service financially unfeasible in sparsely populated regions. Through a solution called RuralLink, Globe aims to address these challenges to narrow the digital divide and expand its coverage. “Providing connectivity to all Filipinos demands solutions that are both cost-efficient and eco-friendly. Through our strategic partnerships, we are pushing the boundaries of network technology.  RuralLink enables us to reduce our carbon footprint and power consumption while ensuring that no community is left behind in the digital age,” said Joel Agustin, Globe Head of Service Planning and Engineering. RuralLink merges the capabilities of multiple antennas into a single, compact unit, reducing capital outlay and operational expenses, and simplifying installation. RuralLink will initially cover 20 locations, with plans for further expansion as Globe brings connectivity to more underserved and unserved areas. RuralLink’s lighter build – weighing 101 kg less and occupying 48 liters less volume than standard macro sites – decreases material usage and structural load, making installations easier, faster, and less expensive. At the same time, compared to typical macro sites, RuralLink consumes 65% less power and can potentially reduce approximately 4,800 kCO2e (kilograms of carbon dioxide emissions equivalent) of greenhouse gas emissions for each site per year. The deployment of RuralLink is another step towards Globe’s goal of making connectivity more accessible and sustainable to drive inclusive digital growth across the country.        

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) for the disposition of the 61-hectare Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 property amounting to Php48 billion. Under the new MOA, BCDA secured an increased annual lease payment of Php489 million, from the prior Php180 million. The MOA also grants MIAA a three-year option period to decide whether to purchase the 61-hectare property for Php48.89 billion or continue leasing it from BCDA. “This agreement is a win-win for the government, as it enables BCDA to contribute more to the state coffers, while helping MIAA ensure uninterrupted air traffic flow through this critical gateway,” said BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang. “This serves as a vital public service contribution that will ultimately lead to the development of NAIA.” Engr. Bingcang underscored that the significant increase of payments provides a substantial boost to government revenue, enabling BCDA to contribute more to the national coffers. “This aligns seamlessly with BCDA’s mandate to drive economic growth through strategic and impactful development initiatives,” he added. Meanwhile, MIAA General Manager Eric Jose Castro Ines highlighted the strategic importance of the disposition for the future of the Philippine aviation and airline sectors. “Through this lease-to-own agreement between the MIAA and the BCDA, we are taking a crucial step towards securing a long-term development of NAIA Terminal 3. By transitioning from a leaseholder to a rightful owner, MIAA gains full control of the land, allowing us to plan, expand, and modernize the terminal without external limitations,” he said. Should MIAA exercise its option to purchase, a down payment of Php10 billion, less the total cumulative annual payments already remitted, will be required. The outstanding balance will accrue interest at an annual rate of 5 percent, reflecting a reasonable return on investment for the government. BCDA has likewise structured a 15-year payment plan, comprising equal semi-annual installments, which approximate Php3.74 billion annually. This potential acquisition would allow MIAA to secure ownership of the land and infrastructure, enabling them to make substantial and lasting investments in the airport’s development, modernization, and expansion, thereby enhancing its capacity to serve the ever-growing demands of both domestic and international air travel. During the first quarter of 2024, NAIA Terminal 3 handled significant passenger traffic, processing 1.7 million international passengers across 7,700 flights and 1.5 million domestic passengers across 8,200 flights. Also present during the MOA signing were BCDA Chairperson Hilario B. Paredes, MIAA Assistant General Manager Ma. Lourdes SJ. Reyes, and BCDA Executive Vice President Gisela Z. Kalalo. Pursuant to its mandate under Republic Act 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act, the BCDA transforms former military camps into centers of economic growth, generating income through disposition proceeds from sale, lease, and joint venture, as well as concession fees and other receipts. Portions of these proceeds are remitted to the Bureau of the Treasury through dividends and contributions to the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other beneficiary agencies. A share of the earnings are also used to fund the BCDA’s infrastructure projects to help strengthen and boost the competitiveness of its economic zones.       Photo caption:   Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang (second from the left) led the official signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) for the disposition of the 61-hectare Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3. Also present during the event were BCDA Chairperson Atty. Hilario B. Paredes (top left), MIAA General Manager Eric Jose Castro Ines (second from the right), and Senior Assistant General Manager Ma. Lourdes SJ. Reyes (top right). BCDA photo

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, took delivery of its first aircraft for the year — an A330neo — marking another step in strengthening its operations and further modernizing its fleet. The 459-seater aircraft arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila on March 28 and is the first of four A330neos expected to join CEB’s fleet this year. CEB is expecting a total of 7 aircraft to be delivered in 2025. “We are thrilled to welcome our first aircraft delivery for 2025. The arrival of our latest A330neo strengthens our operational resilience, allowing us to serve more passengers while continuing to offer affordable and sustainable air travel. We look forward to bringing dream destinations closer to every Juan with this addition to our fleet,” said Xander Lao, CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer. The A330neo provides CEB with the flexibility to serve regional and long-haul routes, as well as high-demand sectors. With increased range and capacity, the aircraft enables the airline to optimize its operations while maintaining cost efficiency. Airbus NEOs are the latest-generation aircraft that burn 15 percent less fuel per flight and produce less noise compared to the previous generation. The reduction in fuel consumption leads to a corresponding reduction in aircraft carbon emissions. CEB operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, with its diversified commercial fleet mix of 11 Airbus 330s, 39 Airbus 320s, 26 Airbus 321s, and 15 ATR turboprop aircraft enabling the widest network coverage in the Philippines.        

Cebu Pacific finished 2024 strongly, generating total revenues of P104.9 billion, a 16% increase from last year. This growth was driven by its passenger business, which generated P71.3 billion, 14% higher than 2023. The airline’s ancillary business contributed P28 billion, up 16% from a year ago. Its cargo business generated P5.6 billion in revenue, reflecting a 39% year-on-year increase. CEB carried 24.5 million passengers in 2024, an 18% increase from 2023, while maintaining a strong seat load factor of 84.4%. Through expanded operations and the introduction of new routes and destinations, CEB captured 54.1% of the domestic market, and 20.6% of the international market for 2024. By the fourth quarter, the airline’s market share in the domestic sector went up to 58.4%, while its international market share rose to 22.5%, securing its position as the Philippine’s leading international carrier. CEB invested in additional aircraft and spare engines to support its growth and ensure operational resilience amid challenges like global supply chain issues. The airline ended the year with a fleet of 98 aircraft, up 13 from 2023. Despite facing significant cost pressures, including higher expenses for crew, airport services, and fleet maintenance, CEB saw a 7% year-on-year increase in operating income, reaching P9.2 billion, and achieving a 9% operating margin. However, increased fleet and financing costs led to a decrease in net income, from P7.9 billion in 2023 to P5.4 billion in 2024, still yielding a steady 5% net income margin. “We have always been optimistic about the potential of Philippine aviation, driven by the country’s strong economic, geographic, and demographic advantages. Strategic investments in our fleet and hubs have been key to Cebu Pacific’s growth,” said CEB Chief Finance Officer Mark Cezar. “By capitalizing on these opportunities early, we’ve positioned ourselves as leaders in both the domestic and international markets. This solid foundation gives us great confidence as we look ahead to 2025, where we anticipate continuing our rapid growth and improving both operational and financial performance.”

Globe Business, the ICT arm of Globe Telecom, collaborates with Asia Open RAN Academy (AORA) to drive the rapid adoption of Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) technology in the Philippines, which is transforming the telecom industry by driving interoperability and vendor diversity to cut costs, enhance network performance, and increase efficiency. Chaired by Achie Atienza, Director for IP Ecosystem, Strategic Infrastructure Investments at Globe Telecom Inc., this collaboration aims to reshape the country’s telecom infrastructure by promoting innovation, improving connectivity, and developing a skilled workforce to support the future of telecom. Globe Business is fully dedicated to this initiative, hosting AORA’s two recent events at The Globe Tower to encourage collaboration and innovation. The Collaborators Appreciation Day (ACAD), held on December 19, celebrated AORA’s progress in 2024, recognizing the contributions of major partners and outlining the roadmap for the upcoming year. While the Strategic and Operational Planning event, held on January 16,  focused on aligning academic programs with the needs of the Open RAN industry. Several state universities and colleges, alongside partners like VIAVI Solutions, discussed how to address the skills gap and prepare a workforce for Open RAN’s growth. AORA is also working closely with Globe’s network team to accelerate the adoption of Open RAN technology. As a founding member and active contributor to the academy, Globe plays an important role in driving changes by providing resources and expertise to support these efforts. “We are committed to not only adopting Open RAN technology but also nurturing the talent and ecosystem needed to sustain and advance this initiative. We believe that the collaborations we’ve built with AORA and our academic, industry, and government partners will be instrumental in creating a sustainable and innovative telecom landscape for generations to come,” said KD Dizon, Head of Globe Business. Through its partnership with AORA, Globe Business is setting the stage for a more connected, inclusive, and cost-effective digital future for the country, bringing long-lasting benefits to businesses, communities, and the national economy.  

Globe is set to connect 100 more Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) to its network in 2025, bringing vital digital services to more underserved communities across the country. “Connectivity is a fundamental enabler of progress. By expanding network infrastructure in GIDAs, we are unlocking access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for millions of Filipinos. Globe remains steadfast in working with industry partners and the government to ensure inclusive digital access,” said Darius Delgado, Globe’s Chief Commercial Officer. With 600 operational cell sites already in place, Globe aims to expand this further to 700 by the end of the year as part of its commitment to nationwide connectivity. This initiative is driven by the Connectivity Plan Task Force (CPTF) under the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) in partnership with the country’s three mobile network operators (MNOs). MNO leaders have pledged to construct 1,050 new towers in GIDAs between 2025 and 2028, providing connectivity to approximately 12 million Filipinos in remote and underserved regions. Telcos have committed to deploying more towers in GIDAs to remote and unconnected communities until 2028. Globe continues to advocate for a collaborative, industry-wide approach to network expansion in GIDAs. The company emphasizes the importance of private sector and government partnerships to efficiently deploy telecom services to underserved communities. By leveraging shared infrastructure and optimizing existing capacity, the industry aims to make digital services more accessible and sustainable, positioning connectivity as a key driver of inclusive growth and development.  

Globe Business enhances the operations of Shakey’s Pizza Asia Ventures Inc. (SPAVI | PSE:PIZZA) through a strategic partnership focused on upgrading its order  management system to improve operational efficiency, minimize errors, and elevate  services to store operations. Shakey’s Pizza is a leader in casual dining chain restaurants and food kiosks in the Philippines. Its portfolio of brands include market leaders such as Shakey’s and Potato Corner, as well as Peri-Peri, R&B Milk Tea, and Project Pie. The Philippine restaurant industry remains highly competitive, with businesses striving to expand their presence in the market. As organizations grow, their operations become more diverse and complex, which can affect customer experience. Some resort to various manual interventions, implementing divergent systems in operations that lead to inefficiencies. Digital tools have become imperative for customer relationship management (CRM) and kitchen automation to optimize workflows and better serve customers. Facing such challenges, SPAVI has partnered with Globe Business to deploy cloud based solutions that address various operational inefficiencies. These solutions provide seamless access to point-of-sale (POS) systems, centralized data-sharing, and real-time monitoring, enabling SPAVI to reduce manual processes and make informed decisions more efficiently. SPAVI and Globe Business formalized their partnership in a signing ceremony on January 30, gathering key representatives: Vic Gregorio, SPAVI President and CEO; Kiran Y. Amin, Chief Technology Officer; Oliver Sicam, General Manager; and Kathrina David, Supply Chain Management Director; KD Dizon, Head of Globe Business; Cocoy Claravall, Head of Sales, Globe Business; Glenn Estrella, VP for Business Solutions Consulting, Globe Business; Jane Mancia, Head of Key Accounts, Globe Business. “This partnership with SPAVI isn’t just about providing technology; it’s about a shared vision for the future of the F&B industry. We at Globe Business deeply admire SPAVI’s leadership and commitment to innovation. We understand the complexities of scaling a dynamic business like theirs, and we’re committed to being a true partner, proactively identifying opportunities and delivering solutions that empower SPAVI to not only meet but exceed their customers’ evolving expectations. We’re confident that together, we will redefine what’s possible in the restaurant experience,” said KD Dizon, Head of Globe Business. The partnership comes at a pivotal time for SPAVI, which is currently expanding its portfolio. It has grown from a single brand company into a multi-brand portfolio of five brands over the past five years alone. SPAVI’s business also includes Bakemaster, Inc., which supplies Shakey’s products to airline caterers, hotels, restaurants, and sandwich chains. As of 2024, its network has exceeded 2,600 stores and outlets, with domestic and international expansion accelerating its growth. ”Quality of service is paramount in our business. It is the bedrock of our commitment to our customers. This is why we need to be a highly efficient organization. We are not looking for mere solutions; we need a true partner like Globe Business, one who understands our values and proactively identifies and creates opportunities. We deeply value the insights Globe Business brings and look forward to their continued innovative contributions to our shared success,” shared Vic Gregorio, SPAVI President and CEO, in his message to Globe during the contract signing. Through Globe’s business solutions, SPAVI expects to improve forecasting, digitize processes, access data real-time, and centralize data for comprehensive reporting and analysis. With Globe Business’ expertise in reliable connectivity and digital solutions, SPAVI aims to further refine its inventory management, ensure order accuracy, and strengthen overall business operations. Managing increasing scale can become challenging and complex, making continuous innovation and transformation not just an option for SPAVI but a necessity. The collaboration with Globe Business underscores SPAVI’s commitment to ensuring that, as its footprint expands, its operational excellence and guest satisfaction remain at the forefront.    

Investments in Camp John Hay in Baguio City soared to Php 1 billion since the Bases Conversion and Development Authority’s (BCDA) recovery of the property in January 2025. This reflects the business sector’s trust and confidence in BCDA’s track record and its plans of transforming the iconic destination into a premier ecotourism and investment hub. BCDA reported that it had already signed 75 residential and commercial lease agreements in Camp John Hay, totaling around Php 1 billion in investments. This milestone enables BCDA to bring in more job and economic opportunities to the local community and contribute more to the state coffers. Some of the major industry players and small- and medium-enterprises that have already begun to pour in investments in Camp John Hay are Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) subsidiary Landco Pacific Corporation, Stern Real Estate Development Corporation, Amare La Cucina, Golfplus Management Inc. (GMI), DuckWorld Philippines, and Top Taste Trading Inc. Of the 75 contracts signed in two months, 70 were residential lease agreements signed with local and foreign nationals, including Koreans, while the remaining were commercial lease agreements. “Numbers don’t lie. Breaching a billion mark in just two months is proof that Camp John Hay is thriving as more and more investors are seeing its potential of becoming the country’s next ecotourism and investment hub under the management of BCDA,” said BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang. “More exciting things will be announced soon, as we set to close more contracts and deals in the next weeks.” Several guests and visitors said they noticed improvements in amenities and services since BCDA took over, in partnership with MPIC subsidiary Landco Pacific Corporation as the interim manager of the John Hay Hotels, and the consortium of GMI and DuckWorld PH  overseeing the operations and maintenance of John Hay Golf. “As we bring in economic opportunities that will benefit everyone, we want to assure the local community that we will protect and preserve the vast forested area and open spaces of Camp John Hay,” said Engr. Bingcang. As a testament to this, Engr. Bingcang said BCDA is conducting a review of the comprehensive master plan of the John Hay Special Economic Zone (JHSEZ) to align it with the United Nation’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Moreover, the BCDA is in coordination with the Baguio City Government on improving jogging trails and pedestrian lanes, installing solar street lights, and establishing a smart transport system. The BCDA was able to regain control of the Camp John Hay property following a groundbreaking Supreme Court decision, which allowed the recovery of the 247-hectare leased area from CJH Development Corp.