By Rachel Magday    Provincial Government eyes P100,000 incentive A young Vizcayano has again made his mark in a national licensure examination after placing ninth in the February 2026 Criminologist Licensure Examination (CLE). Mark Jether M. Eraña, a graduate of PLT College and a resident of Bintawan Sur, Villaverde, secured the ninth spot nationwide with a rating of 91.90 percent, according to results released by the Professional Regulation Commission. Eraña, the son of Celso and Rosemarie M. Eraña, is a potential recipient of the P100,000 Topnotchers Incentive from the Nueva Vizcaya provincial government under the administration of Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito. Under the province’s Topnotchers Incentive Ordinance, a P200,000 reward is granted to those who place first in any professional licensure examination, while those ranking from second to tenth receive P100,000 each. His achievement comes just a week after another young Vizcayano, Anthony George P. Lucero of Sto Domingo, Bambang, also a graduate of PLT College, ranked ninth in the recent Nurses Licensure Examination and is likewise expected to receive the same provincial incentive. Meanwhile, in the overall results of the criminology board exam, the King’s College of the Philippines–Bambang Campus was also recognized for its strong performance after placing among the Top 3 Best Performing Schools in the category of 101 to 199 examinees. The school posted a 95.37 percent passing rate, with 103 out of 108 examinees successfully passing the licensure examination.  

  Ten years after its launch, Globe’s Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) has officially reached a historic milestone, reaching more than two million students and educators nationwide. What began in 2016 as a corporate initiative to teach online safety and responsibility has grown into a nationwide movement against fast-evolving digital risks. When classrooms shifted online during the pandemic, Globe adapted quickly, converting modules into digital courses on the Globe of Good YouTube channel. These resources have been viewed over 432,000 times, ensuring learning continues anytime, anywhere. DTP equips learners with practical skills to navigate the online world safely, from protecting personal data to practicing cyber ethics and responsible technology use. By turning awareness into action, the program empowers students not just to protect themselves but also to guide others in their communities. In 2019, Globe partnered with the Department of Education to strengthen DTP’s impact, integrating lessons on responsible online behavior into the K–12 values formation curriculum and giving millions of students and teachers structured guidance to navigate digital spaces safely. In 2025 alone, 16,560 students and teachers participated in DTP workshops and learning sessions nationwide. Taking the initiative further, Globe launched the Digital Thumbprint Student Ambassador Program in 2025 with Technological Institute of the Philippines as the pilot school. Student ambassadors will now act as peer mentors who will share digital safety knowledge to classmates and vulnerable communities and create a multiplying effect of awareness and protection nationwide. The 2026 curriculum now features 36 stackable modules, in recognition of the evolving digital landscape, including AI ethics, digital etiquette, Philippine cyber laws, and digital rights, designed to combat current threats that didn’t exist when the program began Structured across basic, intermediate, and advanced levels, the curriculum guides learners through each stage with facilitated training sessions, helping them build mastery and confidence in navigating the modern digital landscape “Reaching the 10-year mark is a testament to the urgency and importance of our mission. When we started in 2016, we talked about passwords; today, we are talking about AI ethics and digital empathy. With our new student ambassadors leading the charge, we are not just teaching safety; we are building a nation of digital guardians,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer. This commitment to digital literacy and online safety has also gained recognition. In the 2026 Consumer Choice Awards by Standard Insights, Globe earned Excellence in Digital Literacy and Safety, a new category introduced this year. Among professionals, Globe ranked highest in digital literacy, reflecting its role in enabling productivity and responsible digital engagement. Among students, its online safety initiatives also stood out, highlighting the growing importance of protection in an increasingly connected society. A decade in, DTP is more than a program; it is a legacy of #AlagangGlobe and action. By empowering students as digital leaders, Globe continues to help build a safer and more responsible digital Philippines, protecting digital thumbprints while inspiring the next generation to lead online with confidence. Drawing on the company’s DTP journey, Globe helped shape the global discourse on digital inclusion by contributing to the development of GSMA’s “The Business Imperative for Digital Inclusion”. This serves as a guide that helps mobile operators embed digital inclusion into their strategies, track progress, and report their impact transparently. This views digital inclusion as a holistic ecosystem, encompassing access, skills, meaningful use, and a supportive environment.  

  When you donate your Globe Rewards points to CENTEX, you become part of a community working alongside schools and DepEd to strengthen teaching, support learners, and close learning gaps—one classroom at a time. Photo courtesy of Ayala Foundation, Inc.   Globe, alongside the Department of Education and local government units, is supporting the continued expansion of Ayala Foundation’s CENTEX Digital Education program, reinforcing a shared commitment to improving access to quality digital learning for Filipino learners. The program introduces a “High Touch, High Tech” approach to education, combining digital modules, in-person coaching, and Professional Learning Communities – enabling teachers to use digital tools and real-time data to deliver targeted instructional support based on students’ actual learning needs. CENTEX Digital Education is built on the belief that technology alone is not enough, and that meaningful improvement requires a strong support system anchored in real-time data—so instruction can be adjusted, timely, and responsive to each learner and sustained by community engagement. In its pilot phase in San Marcelino, Zambales, the program showed a 13.8 percentage point improvement in math learning outcomes among students in treatment schools compared to control schools within just 12 weeks. “Learning improves when technology is paired with care, guidance, and accountability,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer at Globe. “CENTEX Digital Education reflects our commitment to help teachers lead confident digital classrooms and ensure students learn at the right level, not just move through the system.” The program empowers educators to become confident, data-driven mentors who can address individual learning needs, helping build a thriving, learning community for both teachers and students. It also exposes students early to digital tools that build future-readiness and confidence in learning. “CENTEX is about helping students learn better by supporting the teachers who guide them,” said Tony Lambino, President of Ayala Foundation. “By strengthening teacher capacity and using data to inform instruction, we help teachers differentiate learning and provide support that responds to each student’s needs.” Globe customers can support the initiative through Globe Rewards or GoGIVE. Donations fund the setup of Digital Learning Labs, support connectivity, and help integrate platforms such as Khan Academy for personalized learning. To support Ayala Foundation through GoGIVE: Tap GoGIVE on the GlobeOne app Select Building Learning Communities through CENTEX Digital Education as your advocacy to start earning hearts Support your advocacy automatically every time you use mobile data. More than 8,000 students and over 300 public school teachers are expected to directly benefit from the program. The model also builds local teacher-leaders and secures support from LGUs and DepEd, making the initiative scalable and sustainable across the public school system. Through this partnership, Globe continues to champion digital inclusion in education, making sure no child is left behind in today’s evolving learning landscape.     PHOTO 1:   PHOTO 2:      

Inaugural Concrete Pouring Ceremony Marks Major Step Toward Empowering Ayta Communities in Pampanga and Tarlac NEW CLARK CITY, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and Hann Foundation Inc. (HFI) marked a significant development with the conduct of the inaugural concrete pouring ceremony for the multipurpose pavilion of the Ayta Ethno Botanical Center (AEBC) in New Clark City, Tarlac. The groundbreaking event signals the start of a transformative initiative aimed at uplifting indigenous communities while advancing sustainable development in the region. “Makikipagtulungan ang BCDA upang makapaglaan ng karagdagang pondo para sa proyekto. Sa pamamagitan nito, maipapakita at maipagmamalaki ang mga produktong nagbubuo ng matibay na pundasyon para sa komunidad at lalo pang magpapalago sa ekonomiya ng Pampanga at Tarlac (The BCDA will collaborate to allocate additional funding for the project. Through this initiative, products that build a strong foundation for the community will be showcased and promoted with pride, further driving the growth of the economies of Pampanga and Tarlac.),” said BCDA Officer-in-Charge for the Office of Senior Vice President for Conversion and Development Group Engr. Mark P. Torres. The 10-hectare AEBC Pavilion will serve as a central landmark within the facility, designed to host meetings, consultations, training sessions, seminars, and a broad range of community-centered activities. The center aims to scale up the agricultural capabilities of local farmers and fisherfolk, with a particular focus on Aeta communities in Pampanga and Tarlac. It will also serve as a model for food forests to be established in other green areas of New Clark City, boosting food security, creating livelihood opportunities, maintaining a healthy ecosystem, and improving climate resilience across the Clark area. The AEBC project will be rolled out in three phases. Phase 1 will feature the multi-purpose pavilion, a ceremonial ground, a market, a coffee shop, a tamarind orchard, a coffee farm, and a pond. Phase 2 will include a mango orchard, picnic areas, and natural trails, while Phase 3 will add rice terraces, a bamboo grove, a dormitory, and a viewing deck. Meanwhile, Hann Foundation Inc. Executive Director Ana Christi G. Galura expressed confidence in the project’s long-term impact, emphasizing that economic progress and cultural preservation can move forward together to create sustainable and culturally grounded development. “I hope that this will be a way for us to have space for sharing of knowledge and skills so that this can reach future generations,” she said. Empowering 300 Ayta Farmers Through Education and Training The AEBC program aims to empower 300 Ayta farmers in Capas and Bamban, Tarlac through hands-on, farm-based training implemented in partnership with PSAU and the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office III. Beyond improving farming techniques, the initiative guides participants toward earning educational equivalency certifications in agriculture and agribusiness. Advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals The AEBC initiative supports BCDA’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). By strengthening the capacities of indigenous communities and promoting sustainable food systems, BCDA helps ensure that the development of New Clark City advances in a way that is inclusive, resilient, and centered on the needs and aspirations of its people.              

JCB Platinum Credit Cardmembers can now take charge of their health with an exclusive PHP 3,000 discount on Executive Health Screening Packages at Fullerton Health Philippines.    TAGUIG CITY, Philippines – Fullerton Health Philippines, the Philippines’ first dedicated Executive Health Screening (EHS) and advanced diagnostic imaging center, offering a five-star personalized healthcare experience, has partnered with JCB to extend exclusive healthcare benefits to JCB Platinum Cardmembers. Under this collaboration, cardmembers are entitled to PHP 3,000 off Fullerton Health Philippines’ Diamond and Sapphire EHS packages, delivering a first-class preventive health screening experience designed for busy professionals and executives. This partnership underscores JCB’s commitment to delivering meaningful lifestyle and wellness benefits to its Cardmembers while supporting Fullerton Health Philippines’ mission to make healthcare more personalized, accessible, and efficient. The initiative encourages professionals to take charge of their well-being through comprehensive executive screenings that are fast, private, and technologically advanced. “Our collaboration with Fullerton Health represents the ideal union of wellness and convenience for our Platinum Cardmembers. We are delighted to offer eligible Cardmembers an exclusive opportunity to access world-class EHS services at a preferential rate. We invite these Cardmembers to take advantage of this partnership and experience Fullerton Health’s personalized care.” said Wataru Tamura, Country Manager of JCB Philippines. Fullerton Health delivers a distinctly different executive health screening experience. Appointments can be booked in as little as 15 minutes, and comprehensive screenings are completed within three hours, with services designed to maximize privacy, personalization, and operational efficiency. The facility is the only dedicated center in the country for executive health screening and advanced diagnostic imaging, consistently receiving five-star reviews for its clinical care and customer experience. “This partnership is an exciting opportunity for JCB Platinum Cardmembers to prioritize their health without compromising their busy schedules. Our executive EHS packages are tailored to deliver efficiency, comfort, and peace of mind. We hope more professionals will embrace this chance to become the CEO of their own health,” said Carmie de Leon, Country General Manager of Radlink Philippines Corporation and EHS Lead for Fullerton Health Philippines. Darren Lim, Senior Vice President, Head of Radlink and Fullerton Health EHS for the Philippines added: “JCB members in the Philippines can expect a health screening experience unlike any other in the country. We have thoughtfully designed our screenings to make our clients feel like they are pursuing self-care and not just clinical care, combing Filipino hospitality with Singapore-based technologies. We’re thrilled to welcome them and demonstrate how preventive healthcare can be seamless, empowering, and accessible.” The promotion runs from January 15 to July 15, 2026, offering JCB Platinum Cardmembers a valuable opportunity to experience Fullerton Health’s executive health screenings at a special rate.                  

Doha, Indonesia — Indonesia’s ParagonCorp Wardah, a pioneer of halal beauty from the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country, unveiled new research on value-driven women’s leadership at the Jadal Women’s Research Dialogue in Qatar, a global forum organized by the Al Mujadilah Center and Mosque for Women. Through its participation, ParagonCorp Wardah positioned faith, ethical business, and values-based leadership at the center of the global conversation, reflecting its belief, Wardah Beauty Moves You, that beauty empowers women to grow, spread kindness, and create meaningful impact. Amid growing global demand for transparency and accountability, ParagonCorp Wardah positioned halal beyond certification, as a comprehensive ethical framework guiding every aspect of its operations, from sourcing to the entire value chain. In the beauty industry, halal represents more than compliance; it reflects an Ethical Business Ecosystem as a Living Value, embedding integrity, responsibility, and sustainability into everyday business practices. Today, halal stands as a global standard of quality, safety, and responsibility. “Halal is an ethical principle that shapes the way we work. It’s not just a business, it’s a form of stewardship and our responsibility as human beings,” said Dr. Sari Chairunnisa, Sp.D.V.E., FINSDV. The international forum convened Muslim academics, researchers, and practitioners from diverse countries and disciplines to examine contemporary issues shaping the lives and leadership of Muslim women. Among the speakers was Retno Marsudi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (2014–2024), who emphasized that the purpose must be the foundation of women’s leadership. “A leader needs a moral compass to navigate daily decisions, especially amid global uncertainty. Integrity and values must guide leadership to ensure commitment to the public interest, including vulnerable groups,” she said. Other distinguished participants included Haya Al Ghanim, Founder of Oola in Qatar; Anita Ahmed, CEO of the MySDGs Foundation in Malaysia; and Shariah Nelly Francis, CEO of the PETRONAS Foundation in Malaysia. Highlighting the broader vision behind the forum, Dr. Sohaira Siddiqui, Executive Director of Al Mujadilah, explained that Jadal was created to bridge the gap between academic research and lived realities, fostering dialogue between scholars and practitioners to strengthen the global Muslim women’s community. “As an academic deeply involved within the Muslim community, I experienced two distinct spaces, academic spaces for research and theoretical conversations, and community spaces for practical dialogue. I realized the need for these spaces to merge, creating conversations at the crossroads between research and everyday life, between scholars and practitioners, and between theory and lived realities. Jadal was born from this realization to facilitate meaningful exchange and community development among Muslim women globally,” she said. Building on this vision of connecting research with lived realities, the findings presented by ParagonCorp Wardah underscore that Muslim women can navigate modernity without abandoning their values and faith. Ethical principles and social awareness serve as a compass for personal growth and meaningful societal contribution. “We believe beauty is most meaningful when it inspires women to grow and create a positive impact on others. As a Purposeful Beauty Tech Company, ParagonCorp is grounded in values, ethics, and social responsibility, principles that Wardah brings to the global conversation. Through our participation in the Jadal Women’s Research Dialogue, we aim to amplify the voice and strengthen the role of Muslim women in driving continuous positive change, both in Indonesia and globally,” added Dr. Sari. Through this engagement, Wardah emphasizes that beauty is not only meant to be seen, but lived through purpose, responsibility, and meaningful contributions, reflecting the spirit of Wardah Beauty Moves You, Because Every Step Matters for a Purposeful Movement. About ParagonCorp ParagonCorp is a multinational fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company based in Indonesia that was founded in 1985. Its journey began with PT Paragon Technology and Innovation, Indonesia’s largest national cosmetics company, which owns the brands Wardah, Make Over, Emina, Kahf, Putri, Laboré, Biodef, Instaperfect, Crystallure, Tavi, Earth Love Life, and OMG. ParagonCorp is committed to the best management practices and sustainable growth. The company’s vision is to become a growing, beneficial, and sustainable entity. Based on the company’s five core values of faith, excellence, humility, resilience, and innovation, ParagonCorp continues to produce high-quality products that provide value to Paragonians, partners, communities, and the environment. About Wardah Wardah is a leading beauty brand known for its innovations in science and technology. With its wide range of skincare, makeup, and personal care products, Wardah is committed to empowering individuals to embrace their uniqueness and inner beauty.

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines – Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño was among those hailed by Stargate PeopleAsia as People of the Year 2026. Awardees were chosen for their achievements and advocacies, most significant of which is Aliño’s belief in choosing “not what is easy, but what is right.” Aliño is recognized for his “industrialist” leadership, bringing decades of business savvy to his role as SBMA Chairman and Administrator. He embarked on projects that aim to transform Subic Bay into a dynamic economic hub and “green port.” Under his leadership, the authority secured nearly ₱600 billion in investments in 2025 alone. Other2026 Awardees include: Ramon S. Ang as a Lifetime Achievement Awardee (San Miguel Corp. Chairman/CEO); Jessica Soho for being veteran journalist and “beacon of truth”; Martin Nievera, known as “The Concert King”; Sheila Romero for being the founder of I Want to Share Foundation. Adding to the prestigious list of awardees are Fr. Flavie Villanueva, SVD, founder of Arnold Janssen Kalinga Center; DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon; and Dr. Hayden Kho Jr., Managing Director of Belo Medical Group. Since assuming the top leadership role at the SBMA in January 2024, Aliño has focused on enhancing the Freeport’s revenue, attracting new investments, and integrating sustainability into its operations. Under his leadership, the SBMA breached its ₱4 billion operating revenue target. In 2025, the agency remitted P1.465 billion in revenue earnings to the national government, landing among the top dividend contributors to the national coffers. In 2024 alone, Subic welcomed 159 new locators, bringing in a total committed investment worth ₱20.6 billion and generating 6,466 new jobs for the community. Aliño also launched the Green Anchor Awards to recognize partners excelling in sustainability and trade facilitation. His “Greenport” vision includes developing sustainable industrial parks and expanding digital infrastructure. In early 2026, the SBMA was ranked 1st in Overall Performance in the Quarterly Survey of Philippine Business and Industry (QSPBI) by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). He secured major global players like Hyundai Heavy Industries, which is seen as a significant boost to Subic’s long-term maritime and industrial development. Aliño spearheaded projects such as the Subic Bay Residencias socialized housing project for SBMA employees, the electric bus public transportation vehicle, the redevelopment of the Boardwalk area, and facilitated the entry of new leisure developments, such as the IBIS Styles Subic Hotel. (30)          

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN, Philippines  – In the peaceful village of Salud in the town of Bolinao, a timeless tradition weaves its way into the hearts of the locals. From generation to generation, buri weaving, a craft handed down by ancestors, has now become a way of life. The buri palm leaves are carefully harvested, dried, and woven into intricate patterns, creating beautiful mats, baskets, and other handicrafts. This tradition is rooted in romance when a man courting a woman must learn to weave and prepare buri leaves, a test of his dedication and love. Today, artisan Susan Caacbay, is breathing new life into this craft. Her beautiful buri bags are a hit at the Banaan Museum Souvenir Shop located at Casa Real here, showcasing skills, creativity, and Pangasinan’s cultural heritage. Every stitch tells a story of love and devotion, preserving traditional techniques. Carrying a buri bag, isn’t just a fashion statement; it’s carrying the spirit of Pangasinan. “I want to safeguard and elevate our province’s artistic legacy,” she says. To get a buri bag, contact Ms. Susan Caacbay at 09052491690 or susancaacbay26@gmail.com. You can also visit the Banaan Pangasinan Provincial Museum (Casa Real) to see the products. (Ruby F. Rayat, photos courtesy of Ms Susan Caacbay | PIMRO)

More than two decades of hard work overseas—and a lifelong habit of disciplined saving—came full circle for Benedicto Marra, 62, an overseas Filipino worker based in Saudi Arabia, after he emerged as the grand draw winner of 1 Million BDO Rewards Points under BDO Unibank’s Save Your Way to a Million Rewards Holiday Raffle Promo. A mechanic and heavy equipment technician for over 20 years, Marra left home out of necessity, driven by the responsibility of providing for his family. “Ginusto kong mag-abroad kasi kailangan. Mahirap ang buhay,” he shared, recalling the many challenges he faced—including a serious work accident—while continuing to persevere for his loved ones. “Number one d’yan yung pagkalayo sa pamilya. Yun ang di nababayaran ng salapi.” Since opening his BDO Kabayan Savings account in 2003, Marra has viewed banking not just as a place to store money, but as a tool to build long-term stability. His primary goal was simple yet deeply meaningful: To secure a home for his family. “Kahit papaano may masilungan,” he said, underscoring how saving with purpose guided his financial decisions through the years. While working abroad, Marra found reassurance in having reliable access to his finances through his Kabayan Savings account. He cited the convenience of online banking, real-time remittance crediting, competitive exchange rates, and transparent charges—features that proved especially valuable during the pandemic, when in-branch transactions were difficult. “Anytime, anywhere… basta may signal, nagagamit talaga,” he shared. By opening a new account with a minimum deposit of ₱50,000 during the promo period and signing up for BDO Pay for an additional raffle entry, Marra qualified for the holiday raffle—an initiative that turns everyday saving into opportunities for meaningful rewards. BDO said the promo reflects its broader commitment to encouraging responsible saving habits while recognizing the perseverance of its Kabayan clients. “Our overseas Filipino clients play a vital role in their families’ financial security,” said BDO Senior Vice President and Head of Remittance Genie T. Gloria. “Through Kabayan Savings and other bank services, we aim to provide secure, convenient, and accessible tools that support their long-term goals, wherever they may be.” Now spending more time at home and preparing for retirement, Marra hopes to open a small business related to his trade and build a more comfortable future for his children and grandchildren. His advice to fellow OFWs is grounded in experience: “Kung kailangan mo mag-save ng salapi, gumamit ka ng bangko. Kung may isinuksok, may madudukot.” Through initiatives like the Save Your Way to a Million Rewards Holiday Raffle Promo, BDO continues to recognize the quiet discipline of everyday savers—transforming years of sacrifice into moments worth celebrating.