Zamboanga City, Philippines – Globe Telecom recently joined forces with the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) and local stakeholders in Zamboanga City to strengthen the fight against Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Material (CSAEM). The campaign gathered over 300 participants, including officials from the Department of Justice, the Commission on Human Rights, the NBI, the PNP, and the Zamboanga City Local Government Unit, underscoring the urgency of a whole-of-community approach in safeguarding children. “Protecting children online requires more than technology, it demands collective action. Globe is proud to stand with IACAT, government agencies, and civil society to address both the digital and social drivers of exploitation. Together, we can help ensure every Filipino child grows up in a safer, more inclusive digital world,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer. Building Digital Defenses Beyond addressing poverty, Globe continues to champion online safety through education and awareness.  The Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP), aimed towards providing digital skills, has reached over 12,000 students across 43 schools this year alone, contributing to safer families and communities in the digital space. Complementing this, the MakeItSafe website equips parents with practical tools to recognize online risks and protect their children. Globe also co-developed Safe Space: A Kid’s Guide to Data Privacy with the Center for Art, New Ventures and Sustainable Development (CANVAS), an award-winning children’s book teaching kids how to safeguard their personal data. This book is on display at Tumba-Tumba: A Retrospective, a year-long exhibit at the National Museum promoting children’s rights, creativity, and digital responsibility. Using Technology to Block Harm Globe is stepping up efforts to keep Filipinos safe online. In the first half of 2025 alone, the company blocked over 484 million scam and spam messages, shut down 5,707 malicious domains linked to child exploitation and harmful content, and dismantled 2,785 illegal gambling sites. Its filtering system also barred access to 248,552 URLs containing child sexual abuse and exploitation materials, including 8,385 AI generated materials, in partnership with local authorities and international watchdogs. Meanwhile, the StopSpam portal processed 87,624 SIM reports, resulting in 9,961 SIM deactivations on Globe’s network and 77,065 blacklisted SIMs from other operators. Together with its digital literacy and awareness programs, these actions provide a stronger layer of protection for customers, especially children against online harm. Globe has been championing online safety, digital literacy, and responsible connectivity. The company emphasizes that technology must be paired with education, community engagement, and shared responsibility to create meaningful impact.                  

CEBU, Philippines — Globe Prepaid customers can now support ongoing relief efforts for communities affected by the recent magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Cebu through GoGIVE on the GlobeOne app. Globe Prepaid customers can support the Ayala Foundation, Inc. (AFI) until October 19 for the rehabilitation and psychosocial programs for affected families and children. Through GoGIVE, Globe offers everyone an easy and meaningful way to help with just a tap. Subscribers can gain hearts just by burning their mobile data. Hearts are then given to the advocacy they choose to support. Every contribution, no matter the size, can make a real difference in helping families recover and rebuild. “We are empowering our customers to show care in times of crisis,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer. “By coming together, we can help families in Cebu get back on their feet and remind them that they are not alone in their recovery.” For existing GoGIVE users, they can simply log into their GlobeOne app and access their GoGIVE account, from there they can select “Support earthquake relief in Cebu” to give their extra hearts. New users who want to join and support can download the GlobeOne app, click the GoGIVE icon, and select their preferred advocacy. Once they start gaining hearts, these can be given to support Cebu. Globe has already fully restored its local network in Daanbantayan and San Remigio in Cebu where service disruptions were most severe. Meanwhile, technical teams continue to work on-site to bring Bogo City’s remaining sites fully online and ensure consistent connectivity across affected areas.      

NORTHERN SAMAR, Philippines — Congressman Edwin C. Ongchuan, Representative of Northern Samar’s 2nd District, welcomed the approval by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) for the grid connection of the Lihangin Wind Energy Corporation (LWEC) San Isidro Wind Power Project, describing it as a major step forward in advancing clean and reliable energy in the province. The 206-megawatt wind power project in the municipality of San Isidro was authorized by the ERC to connect to the Visayas grid through the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) substations in Calbayog and San Isidro. The project, a joint venture of Aboitiz Renewables Inc., Vivant Energy Corp., and Singapore-based Vena Energy, is expected to begin commercial operations by February next year. As former Governor of Northern Samar, Congressman Ongchuan led the province’s investment and renewable energy initiatives through his “Winvest” campaign, which aimed to attract investors and create an environment conducive to sustainable growth. The campaign laid the groundwork for the entry of renewable energy projects that now position Northern Samar as an emerging hub for green investments in Eastern Visayas. The ERC approval of the San Isidro Wind Power Project affirms the continuing results of those early investment efforts. This will hopefully strengthen the overall stability of the Visayas grid. It supports the long-term goal of reducing dependence on imported fuels and promoting more affordable and sustainable electricity across the region. The wind project has secured all necessary permits from the Department of Energy and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Once operational, it will add significant renewable energy capacity to the Visayas grid and help achieve national clean energy targets. Congressman Ongchuan reiterated his commitment to advancing policies in Congress that support renewable energy, infrastructure, and sustainable economic growth for Northern Samar. He emphasized that collaboration between government, private investors, and local communities remains vital in ensuring inclusive development and a resilient energy future for the province. (Segundo Distrito)

Cebu City<Philippines – In the wake of the recent earthquake that struck Cebu, the Aboitiz Group and key partners have mobilized resources to provide immediate relief to affected communities. As of October 3, Aboitiz Group has so far allocated over ₱2.5 million worth of assistance, distributing 11,385 liters of water, 3,600 food packs, 2,000 non-food items, and reaching 3,600 families in need. The disaster also affected 11 CitySavings employees in Bogo City, for whom assistance and recovery support have been extended. Some employee volunteers have also joined relief operations. “These are running figures as we continue to provide aid and assess the evolving needs of our communities. We will keep updating our partners and stakeholders as more relief efforts are carried out,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Aboitiz Foundation President. Alongside relief efforts, AboitizPower has restored one of its Therma Visayas Inc. (TVI) generating units following safety inspections, helping stabilize supply to the Visayas grid, with full operations targeted by Monday. Relief efforts were made possible through the support of Aboitiz Group business units: Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Aboitiz Foundation, AboitizPower, Visayan Electric, UnionBank, CitySavings, AboitizFoods, Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP), Aboitiz InfraCapital, Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation, Aboitiz InfraCapital Water, Unity Digital Infrastructure, AboitizLand, Aboitiz Economic Estates, and Aboitiz Construction. These efforts were also carried out in close coordination with partner organizations including Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc., Philippine Red Cross Cebu Chapter, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce & Industry – Lapu-Lapu City. The Aboitiz Foundation reaffirms its commitment to help communities recover and rebuild, as part of its mission to drive meaningful change and uplift lives nationwide. We will continue to provide updates in the coming days.          

BOGO CITY, Cebu,Philippines – Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco joined Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary (DPWH) Vince Dizon and Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Chairman Richard Gordon in visiting the Tent City in Bogo City, the ground zero of the 6.9 magnitude earthquake in Cebu on September 30. On Saturday, (Oct. 4), the three officials were present in Barangay Cogon, Bogo City in Cebu as the PRC began the establishment of at least 2,500 tents for displaced residents. “The 6.9 magnitude earthquake has left a devastating impact on the northern part of Cebu, and the people are now in the process of being provided with relief. I am here together with Secretary Vince (Dizon) as the construction of the tent cities has begun in Bogo City, in Medellin, and will soon begin here in San Remigio,” the Secretary said in an interview. The tent city will have water stations, sanitation facilities, and other necessary amenities. The neighboring towns of Medellin and San Remigio will also receive the same intervention. Likewise, Secretary Frasco noted that the DOT is working together with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to provide necessary support for the earthquake victims, including food packs, emergency cash transfer, and alternative livelihood training program. “The intent being that, upon instructions of the President, we are able to provide food on the table for those that were affected, and of course, water, shelter, electricity, those are all very important,” she added. “For tourism, since Cebu continues to be one of the most popular tourism destinations in the Philippines, and tourism is a vital industry here, we are making sure to assist our tourism frontliners. We have already provided family food packs to nearly 1,000 tourism frontliners together with the DSWD, and we’re endorsing them as well for alternative livelihood training and emergency cash transfer,” she said. Meanwhile, as the earthquake struck the province, the Tourism Secretary has joined many Cebuanos in the spirit of bayanihan, extending a personal donation of Php 3,000 each to some 50 affected tourism workers. The tourism chief also met with the parish priests of San Juan Nepomuceno Parish and St. Ignatius Loyola Parish to provide assistance for the restoration and rehabilitation of the churches. The DOT, through its infrastructure arm, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), had earlier conducted ground inspections to assess the extent of damage to the province’s heritage sites.

  The Provincial Government of Northern Samar was awarded the Grand Prize in the ATOP PEARL AWARDS 2025 for Best Practices in Community-Based Tourism – Provincial Level with our entry: “LALAGUNA MANGROVE ECO-PARK: A Journey of Transformation, Hope, and Sustainability.” This recognition is a celebration of collaboration, resilience, and shared dreams. Our deepest gratitude to Governor Harris for supporting this initiative in our bid for the prestigious ATOP Pearl Awards. A heartfelt thanks to Congressman Edwin Ongchuan, whose leadership during his term as Governor laid the foundation for what Lalaguna Mangrove Eco Park has become today. We acknowledge the Municipality of Lavezares for the valuable partnership and for sharing the vision of a progressive Lalaguna. Special thanks to Mayor Ed Saludaga for his steadfast support, and to former Mayor Tingting Saludaga, who, together with the Provincial Government, began this remarkable journey. We also commend the Municipal Tourism Office, led by Jasmine Balag-Abueza, for their tireless work in promoting and sustaining the eco park’s development. Our sincere appreciation goes to the various agencies that have, in one way or another, contributed to Lalaguna’s progress, including: Department of Tourism Region 8 (DOT8), under the leadership of RD Karen Tiopes Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Provincial Office Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) University of the Philippines Your collective efforts have made the Lalaguna Mangrove Eco Park a shining example of community-based, sustainable tourism. SP Committee Chair on Tourism, Board Member Ara Gillamac-Layug represented Governor Ongchuan in receiving the award yesterday, October 2, 2025 at Baguio City, with Provincial Tourism Officer Josette Doctor. This award is dedicated to the resilient and committed community of Lalaguna, whose unwavering dedication to improving their lives through the management and operation of the Lalaguna Mangrove Eco Park has been truly inspiring. It is also for the entire Nortehanon community—a shining proof that when people, leaders, and communities work hand in hand, we can create lasting legacies of transformation, hope, and sustainability. (Provincial Tourism Office)

Globe has intensified its emergency response following the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck near Bogo City, Northern Cebu, on September 30. The quake triggered a tsunami alert and aftershocks that continue to be felt across Visayas. The company is working closely with local authorities and partner organizations to deliver relief and connectivity support. Ongoing relief operations with Ayala Foundation, Inc. (AFI) have reached 3,165 families in Cebu, including 1,805 in Bogo and 1,360 in San Remigio. Network Update Globe services were impacted in 15 provinces across the Visayas. As of this morning, full restoration has been achieved in the provinces of Aklan, Antique, Biliran, Bohol, Capiz, and Iloilo. Work continues in other affected areas, with Cebu remaining the hardest hit. Globe technical teams are on the ground conducting facility inspections and coordinating with power providers to accelerate recovery. Libreng Tawag, Libreng Charging, and Libreng Wi-Fi (LTLCLW) Sites Activated To support residents in high-impact communities, Globe has activated the following LTLCLW sites to provide free calls, device charging, and Wi-Fi services: Don Celestino Martinez Sr. Sports Complex, Bogo City, Cebu October 1 to 3, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Dr. Jose Rizal Park, Bogo City, Cebu October 1 to 3, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. San Remigio Public Market, San Remigio, Cebu October 1 to 3, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Globe urges the public to remain vigilant, prioritize safety in light of aftershocks, and follow official advisories from PHIVOLCS and local authorities. The company will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available. More updates will be provided as the situation develops. Visit the GlobeICON social media pages for the latest information.                  

During a situation briefing at the Command Center in Bogo City today, October 2, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced a major aid package for Cebu Province and its northern towns following the 6.9-magnitude earthquake. 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 (𝐎𝐏) 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: ₱50 million for the Province of Cebu ₱20 million each for Bogo City, San Remigio, and Sogod ₱10 million each for Bantayan, Daanbantayan, Madridejos, Medellin, Santa Fe, Tabogon, and Tabuelan 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭: ₱20 million for all DOH-run hospitals in Cebu ₱5 million each for provincial hospitals 𝐀𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐯𝐢𝐚 𝐃𝐁𝐌: ₱150 million Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) for the Province of Cebu . ₱75 million LGSF for San Remigio, Bogo, and Medellin This announcement underscores the united effort of the national government, together with Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro and local leaders, to accelerate recovery, provide relief, and rebuild stronger communities in Northern Cebu.      

CEBU, Philippines — More and more volunteers are flocking to the Cebu Provincial Capitol to extend their time, effort and vehicles in support of relief operations for survivors of the Magnitude 6.9 earthquake in northern Cebu. Under the leadership of Governpr Pamela Baricuatro, the Provincial Government, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) and the Cebu People’s Action Center (CPAC), is coordinating with volunteers to ensure the efficient packing and distribution of relief goods, medical supplies, and other essentials. Governor Baricuatro expressed her heartfelt thanks to all who continue to step forward, emphasizing that the spirit of bayanihan is Cebu’s greatest strength in overcoming this disaster.