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BCDA achieves highest-ever ranking as 6th top-performing GOCC

Business

  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.      

Converge Global business launches Cyber Resiliency Bundle to arm businesses against evolving digital threats

Business

MANILA, Philippines — Businesses across all industries face two key challenges: rapidly evolving cyber threats and the increasing need for optimized, high-performance network connectivity. To help organizations tackle these challenges head-on, Converge Global Business, the corporate and large enterprise unit of leading broadband and technology provider Converge, is proud to introduce the Cyber Resiliency Bundle, a comprehensive solution uniting reliable connectivity and SD-WAN technology. The Cyber Resiliency Bundle is designed to empower businesses with the secure, reliable, and high-performing connectivity they need to remain resilient in today’s digital-first world. Whether it’s ensuring business continuity during a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack or delivering seamless connectivity for mission-critical operations, this innovative bundle offers businesses an all-in-one solution to meet their growing demands. “Modern organizations can no longer afford downtime, inadequate performance, or vulnerabilities to cyberattacks,” said Converge Chief Technology Officer Paulo Martin Santos. “With the Cyber Resiliency Bundle, we’re equipping businesses with the tools they need to stay operational, secure, and ahead of the curve, all while simplifying network management.” The bundle provides a holistic approach to cyber resiliency with three core components: Reliable connectivity: High-speed, uncontended internet ensures consistent performance for critical applications and workflows. This includes Dedicated Internet Access (DIA) for headquarters and cost-effective fiber broadband for branches or Starlink, satellite internet. Software Defined-Wide Area Network (SD-WAN): support continuous connectivity and fail-over links, more so it provides best-in-class security features such as VPN tunneling between sites, Intrusion Prevention System (IPS), URL & application filtering, data leakage protection, and advanced malware protection, among others. Full turnkey approach: A one-stop-shop with a single point of contact that manages the entire process—from solution design and hardware procurement to final implementation. This Cyber Resiliency Bundle is particularly valuable for industries like finance, healthcare, retail, and e-commerce, where operational continuity and robust cybersecurity are of critical importance. Combining these technologies into one package simplifies implementation for IT decision-makers and delivers undeniable value by addressing multiple network and cybersecurity needs simultaneously. The launch of the Cyber Resiliency Bundle reflects a growing commitment to helping businesses proactively adapt to an increasingly complex digital landscape. It not only safeguards operations but also provides opportunities for businesses to streamline costs and boost efficiency, making it an integral part of future-ready strategies. Businesses looking to enhance their cyber resiliency, protect their digital assets, and ensure seamless connectivity are encouraged to explore the Cyber Resiliency Bundle.    

Globe Telecom Closes Term Loan Facility with Bank of Commerce

Business

MANILA, Philippines — Globe Telecom, Inc. signed a term loan facility of Php 5 billion with Bank of Commerce. The loan shall be used to partially finance the Company’s capital expenditures (capex), debt refinancing, and other general corporate requirements. Globe’s capex guidance for the full year 2025 is below US$1 billion, which reflects the Company’s continued investments to strengthen and future-proof its network, ensuring it remains responsive to the growing demand for digital services and emerging technologies. In the first half of 2025, Globe had invested approximately ₱18.9 billion in capex, 33% lower compared to the same period in 2024. In line with the Company’s optimized capital deployment initiatives, the cash capex-to-revenue ratio improved to 24% from 34%, and the capex-to-EBITDA ratio decreased to 45% from 66%. S imilar to prior periods, around 91% of Globe’s cash capex was invested in data requirements, reinforcing its commitment to expanding digital infrastructure. With focused investments and innovation shaped by consumer needs, Globe is helping more Filipino homes and small businesses thrive in today’s connected world.

Cebu Pacific Partners with DLSU to Train Next Generation of Filipino Aviation Engineers

Business

MANILA. Philippines — Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, has partnered with De La Salle University (DLSU) – Manila to mentor future aviation engineers through its Design Engineering Program. The five-year collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), will give select DLSU engineering students the opportunity to work closely with CEB’s technical experts in designing and developing projects for real airline operations. These will include smart systems for aircraft maintenance and sustainable mobility solutions for the carrier’s facilities. The outputs of these projects will also serve as their thesis or capstone requirements. “This partnership invests in more than projects—it invests in people. By guiding young engineers to innovate with purpose, we are building the future of Philippine aviation together,” said Shevantha Weerasekera, CEB Vice President for Engineering and Fleet Management. Twenty-five DLSU engineering students have been chosen for the program’s pilot run this year. This marks CEB’s first formal partnership with a university to embed practical airline industry experience into higher education. The airline said it plans to expand the program to more schools in the coming years as part of its long-term investment in Philippine aviation. The initiative also reflects CEB’s broader push to develop homegrown talent. In May 2025, the airline launched its OFW Balikbayan Program, which encourages engineers working overseas to return and share their expertise with the local sector.    

Globe chairs Global Anti-Scam Alliance PH Chapter, uniting partners to protect Filipinos online

Business

MANILA, Philippines — Globe has recently accepted chairmanship of the Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA) Philippine Chapter, with Gogolook and Meta serving as vice chairs. The appointment took place at The Globe Tower, where stakeholders from payments, banking, tech platforms, and civil society aligned on a shared agenda. Participants walked through the chapter charter, committed to forming working groups, and identified an advisory group to provide strategic guidance on the chapter’s direction and initiatives. They also began mapping plans for a public launch. GASA is supported by Secretary Henry Aguda of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), following a strategic meeting held on August 13 between GASA officials and representatives from the Philippine Chapter, DICT, Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP ACG), the National Privacy Commission (NPC), the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), the GSM Association (GSMA), and members of the private sector. The meeting reinforced DICT’s support for the alliance’s multi-sectoral approach and its commitment to strengthening national coordination in the fight against scams. “The threats we face in the digital world are growing more complex by the day. That’s why we at DICT fully support GASA’s collaborative model,” said DICT Secretary Henry Aguda. “Combating scams isn’t just a tech issue, it’s a trust issue. Through this alliance, we can move as one, strengthen safeguards, and give Filipinos the confidence to fully participate in the digital economy.” GASA noted the scale of the challenge. Its research shows that online scams are now among the most reported crimes globally. In Southeast Asia, 63 percent of adults say they encountered a scam in the past year, while 22 percent lost money. In the Philippines, the share who lost money reaches about 31 percent. As Chair, Globe is committed to ensuring the chapter focuses on practical, people-first initiatives,” said Derick Adil, GASA PH Co-Chair from Globe. Our vision is to empower and secure every Filipino against the changing landscape of digital fraud and scams. We’re focused on education, real-world guidance, and actionable intelligence and partnerships for consumers and enterprises, delivered in collaboration with public and private partners who can disrupt the scam ecosystem. “Filipinos deserve a digital space they can trust. Chairing the GASA Philippine Chapter allows us to bring the right people to the table, share fraud intelligence, and act with urgency,” said Atty. Irish Salandanan-Almeida, Chief Privacy Officer and Vice President for the Policy Office of the Artificial Intelligence Group and the Information Security and Data Privacy Group. “Our goal is simple: Prevent fraud, stop scams, and make recovery easier for victims.” Members will also leverage GASA’s partnership with the Global Signal Exchange to share verified scam signals such as malicious domains and accounts so local teams can act faster. Globe’s cohesive and sustained efforts to fight scams and online threats make it well-positioned to lead the GASA Philippine Chapter. The company brings together strong network defenses, public awareness, and close coordination with government and key multi-sectoral local and international partners. It was the first telco in the country to block person-to-person SMS with clickable links, and it removed links from its own advisories to help customers more easily spot legitimate messages. Globe also works with regulators to take down scam websites, protect sender identities, and respond quickly to scam reports through its #StopSPAM portal. In the first half of 2025, Globe has blocked more than 484 million scam and spam messages. Beyond tech, Globe continues to educate high-risk groups through sustained on-ground programs. Filipino youth are engaged through the Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP), which teaches responsible digital behavior and online safety, while senior citizens receive targeted guidance through #SeniorDigizen, a learning initiative designed to help them navigate digital spaces safely. These programs are complemented by regular scam alerts across mainstream and digital platforms, reinforcing Globe’s long-term commitment to protect Filipinos in an increasingly connected world. “Scammers prey on emotion and speed. The answer is community and coordination,” said Rajeshpal Singh GASA Southeast Asia Advisor. “The Philippine Chapter connects banks, telcos, platforms, and public agencies so we can share intelligence quickly and give people practical protection that works.” The meeting marked the start of a sustained program. Committees will be named, timelines set, and coordination with the advisory group strengthened. The goal is simple to understand. Fewer victims, faster response, and more confidence for Filipinos who rely on digital services to work, learn, and care for their families.      

BCDA taps iSON Tower to strengthen digital infra across its properties

Business

Global telecommunications technology firm iSON Tower Ltd. Inc. has partnered with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) to accelerate the digital transformation of BCDA-administered properties across the region, ensuring faster, more reliable, and more affordable digital connectivity for Filipinos. BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang and iSON Tower Founder and Chairperson Vivek Gupta signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on project preparation studies for passive telecommunication infrastructure and related projects in BCDA economic zones, on August 27. The signing was witnessed by BCDA Chairperson Hilario B. Paredes and iSON Tower Country Manager for the Philippines Rahul Singh. “We are confident that this partnership will deliver transformative development in our ecozones, with iSON bringing its global expertise in building robust and secure digital networks. This will pave the way to faster, more reliable digital services within the BCDA’s properties, helping locators thrive and improving residents’ everyday convenience and quality of life,” Engr. Bingcang said. This partnership is a direct result of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent state visit to India, which strengthened ties and facilitated new collaborations in digital infrastructure between the two countries. Under the MOU, iSON Tower will share its technical expertise and take the lead in conducting technical assessments, feasibility studies, and business case preparation to come up with recommendations for the development, implementation, and construction of passive telecommunication infrastructure and related services. The agreement will set the stage for the development of common telecommunication towers in key areas, including but not limited to New Clark City in Tarlac, Camp John Hay in Baguio City, Poro Point Freeport Zone in La Union, Morong Discovery Park in Bataan, and Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City. “I’m so glad to have this opportunity to sign this MOU to make sure that every Filipino has digital connectivity. Whether it’s an institution, a development area, or a common man on the street, everybody is entitled to 4G, 5G connectivity and moving forward,” said Mr. Gupta. BCDA’s partnership with iSON Tower supports its vision to develop smart, future-ready communities that drive innovation and attract high-impact investments in technology-driven industries, in turn empowering local communities and catalyzing sustainable economic growth. “From New Clark City to Camp John Hay, from Poro Point to Bonifacio Global City, stronger connectivity secures growth that is both competitive and inclusive. It makes our communities places where innovation takes root and opportunities reach more people. This partnership brings us closer to a Philippines that is digitally enabled, globally competitive, and ready to meet the demands of a new era,” Atty. Paredes said. The BCDA plays an important role in advancing the government’s National Broadband Plan (NBP) by helping strengthen digital infrastructure across the country. Together with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), it has contributed to the completion of the Luzon Bypass Infrastructure and the implementation of the National Fiber Backbone Program. iSON Towers, a subsidiary of India-based iSON Group, is accredited by DICT to provide common towers in the Philippines, and is engaged in providing passive infrastructure solutions for network coverage and connectivity.            

Globe CEO: AI Demands More Than Tools, It Requires a New Kind of Leader

Business

MANILA, Philippines — Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz believes artificial intelligence is more than just a powerful tool, it demands a shift in how leaders think and organizations operate. At the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Cloud Day Philippines 2025, Cruz joined fellow executives in a high-level panel on navigating the GenAI revolution, where he emphasized that AI isn’t simply about automating tasks or cutting costs. “Generative AI has moved us past automation and into a new age of augmented intelligence,” he said. “It’s no longer about doing things faster; it’s about unlocking creativity and creating relevance at scale.” Cruz shared how Globe is embedding AI across its operations to drive efficiency, elevate customer experience, and enable innovation at every level. The company’s Net Promoter Score of 49, which is well above the industry benchmark, reflects its success in delivering hyper-personalized services through intelligent systems. “We’re using AI to anticipate needs and connect with people more meaningfully,” he said. He pointed to Globe’s internal AI Enablement Program, which empowers employees to build their own AI tools without a coding background. One team, for instance, created a bot that expanded conversation audits from 5% to 100%, cutting costs dramatically and improving quality assurance. This is proof, Cruz said, that innovation doesn’t always have to come from the top. Cruz also stressed the importance of responsible development. Globe continues to promote the ethical use of AI through its AI Advocacy Guild, a community of practice focused on advancing responsible innovation across the organization, building on its data privacy and cybersecurity strengths. Strategic alliances with GSMA, OpenAI, and Singtel’s Global Telco AI Alliance reinforce this commitment to global best practices. Globe’s approach, which Cruz calls the “AI Kitchen,” prioritizes core capabilities and scalable foundations before rolling out individual AI use cases. “We assess each one like a business case,” he said. “We don’t build for the sake of it, we build for impact.” He acknowledged the challenges that come with AI adoption, from legacy systems to regulatory constraints, but said Globe is addressing these through dedicated readiness programs focused on integration and data maturity. As the panel concluded, Cruz urged fellow leaders to embrace curiosity, empower teams, and trade certainty for adaptability. “GenAI isn’t just a technology shift, it’s a mindset shift,” he said. “We’re building a future where every Filipino is a digital Filipino who is equipped to thrive in an AI-powered world.”

Globe Mobile Base Hits 62.5M with Increasing Customer Trust

Business

MANILA, Philippines — Globe ended the first half of 2025 with 62.5 million mobile subscribers, marking a 5% increase from 59.5 million in the same period last year. This growth reflects Globe’s continued ability to engage and retain customers through relevant offers, an improved network experience, and trusted service. The company remains committed to innovation, aggressively pushing digital transformation to better serve its customers. Globe registered a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 43.3 reflecting steady progress in customer satisfaction. This places Globe above the telco industry average NPS of 31. “Our mobile growth and customer satisfaction are anchored on our deep focus on what truly matters to Filipinos,” said Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz. “Whether it’s value-packed offers or a network they can rely on, we continue to innovate to meet the needs of every customer, wherever they are in their journey.” In the second quarter, mobile data remained the core of customer engagement, contributing 86% of mobile service revenues. Globe also reported a 58% increase in average daily 5G mobile traffic since December 2024, with users consuming up to 33% more data on average, underscoring how connectivity is powering everyday work, entertainment, education, and transactions. To support growing demand, Globe also invested in expanding prepaid accessibility and digital touchpoints, enabling more users to manage their plans, redeem rewards, and enjoy tailored offers via the GlobeOne app. Globe’s growing base and high satisfaction score highlight its leadership in creating a seamless, secure, and rewarding mobile experience for millions of Filipinos.    

Globe Telecom celebrates 50 Years of Public Listing, conducts Bell Ringing ceremony at the Philippine Stock Exchange

Business

  MANILA, Philippines — Globe Telecom marked a significant milestone in Philippine corporate history as it celebrated its 50th year of public listing at the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) with a ceremonial bell ringing at the PSE trading floor in Bonifacio Global City. The event, held on August 11, 2025, commemorates five decades of remarkable growth, innovation, and leadership in telecommunications and digital solutions. Since its historic listing in 1975, Globe has stood at the forefront of the country’s digital transformation, consistently shaping how Filipinos connect, communicate and thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. The ceremonial bell ringing was led by Globe Telecom’s top executives and graced by distinguished leaders from parent company Ayala Corporation, along with key representatives from the PSE and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Among those present were Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Chairman of Ayala Corporation; Carl Raymond R. Cruz, President and Chief Executive Officer of Globe Telecom; Juan Carlo C. Puno, Chief Finance Officer, Treasurer and Chief Risk Officer; Maria Franchette M. Acosta, Corporate Secretary; Vicente Froilan M. Castelo, General Counsel; Maria Yolanda C. Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer; and Marisalve Ciocson-Co, Chief Compliance Officer, Senior Vice President for Legal and Compliance, and Assistant Corporate Secretary. Also in attendance were Francis Edralin Lim, SEC Chairman; McJill Bryant Fernandez, SEC Commissioner and Rachel Gumtang-Remalante, Director of the Corporate Governance and Finance Department. Built in Belief, Purpose In his message, Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala reflected on Globe’s journey and shared, “Globe’s listing in 1975 was more than a financial milestone, it was a statement of belief. A belief that through responsible and sustainable enterprise, we could help move the country forward and upward. Over the years, that belief has taken shape in many forms, in stronger connections, in better access, even in new opportunities made possible for every Filipino.” He also emphasized that Globe has undergone a significant evolution, from a traditional telecommunications provider into a dynamic digital platform company. Yet beyond this business transformation, what truly stands out is the sincerity of its purpose. At every stage of its journey, Globe has chosen to innovate not merely to lead, but to address genuine needs and to serve with intentionality, depth and meaningful impact. In response, Carl Raymond Cruz highlighted the significance of the celebration, emphasizing that ringing the bell marked a tribute to generations of customers, employees and partners who have shaped Globe’s story over five decades. “Globe is here as a partner for the country’s digital future. Not just through technology, but through trust and its people. This is what ‘Go Forward Together’ means to us. We succeed when we move forward as one and make sure that we leave no one behind.” He extended Globe’s appreciation to the Philippine Stock Exchange and the company’s regulators for their enduring partnership over the years. He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of Globe’s shareholders, Board of Directors, employees, and partners, whose continued trust and support have been instrumental in the company’s 50-year journey. Shaping Inclusive and Connected Feature Likewise, the company recognizes the millions of customers it has served and continues to serve, affirming that this milestone is a shared achievement that belongs to them as well. As it embarks on its next chapter, Globe reaffirms its bold and future-ready vision to be the Philippines’ foremost digital solutions platform, one that goes beyond connectivity to meaningfully uplift lives through technology. With a steadfast commitment to inclusive innovation, the company aims to harness the power of digital tools and platforms to ensure that progress is accessible to every Filipino, regardless of geography, background, or socioeconomic status. Globe continues to champion responsible digital citizenship, equipping individuals and communities with the knowledge and values needed to navigate the online world safely, ethically and with discernment. At the heart of this mission lies a deep-rooted belief in the power of collaboration, nurturing multi-sectoral partnerships that drive sustainable growth, uplift underserved communities, and contribute to the country’s long-term development. As Globe looks ahead, it remains guided by purpose, fueled by innovation and anchored in its role as a partner in nation-building.

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