BY ALEX ALAGON
BDO Unibank (BDO) is the sole Philippine bank ranked among the top 10 most valuable banking brands in ASEAN, as recognized by Brand Finance, the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy, at the Asia Brand Gala 2025 in Singapore.
Earlier in 2025, BDO was also named the Philippines’ most valuable brand for the second consecutive year, with its brand value rising 48% to US$ 3.7 billion.
This accolade reflects BDO’s continued focus on enhancing customer experience, promoting financial inclusion, and driving operational excellence.
Alex Haigh, Managing Director, Brand Finance Asia Pacific, shared “BDO’s consistent performance and strong reputation are testament to its ability to align brand strength with business results – pillars that continue to reinforce its leadership in the Philippine banking industry.”
Cebu Pacific (CEB) opens 2026 with the release of its new brand film, “Si Cebie at Ako,” which follows the journey of an aspiring flight attendant and illustrates a truth that many can relate to: Every dream we hold close, comes with challenges—but it’s our willingness to keep going that turns those dreams into reality.
The release of the film marks the start of CEBs’ 30th Anniversary celebration this year.
“For three decades, Cebu Pacific has lived this truth,” says Candice Iyog, CEB Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer. “Through hurdles, setbacks, and moments of uncertainty, what kept us going was the belief that every flight we operate brings someone closer to their dream—closer to family, to opportunities, to new beginnings.”
Over the years, CEB has flown Filipinos wherever they need to be—whether for reunions, cultural experiences, or long-awaited adventures.
Beyond connecting people between destinations, the airline has also been part of journeys that turn personal aspirations into milestones, enabling EveryJuan to move closer to their goals with every flight.
In navigating these journeys, CEB witnesses both obstacles and triumphs among the people it serves every day. Having faced similar experiences itself, the airline highlights the inspiring stories of perseverance, grit, and hope of every Juan it flies.
Watch the full brand film here and be reminded that no matter where the journey leads, dreams are always worth chasing.
Teachers play a vital role not only in shaping young minds but also in building stronger, more resilient communities. Recognizing their invaluable contributions, the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), through its subsidiary Legazpi Savings Bank (LSB), continues to champion educators by providing financial solutions and celebrating their role as mentors and nation-builders.
“Teacher, ikaw naman ngayon.” This simple yet powerful message captures the essence of LSB’s tribute to Filipino educators. Over the years, LSB has empowered more than 67,000 teachers nationwide, highlighting its long-standing contribution to the teaching community. From January to November 2025, the bank recorded an 82% year-on-year growth in its loan portfolio due largely to stronger sales execution supported by improved training and manpower management.
Further demonstrating its long-term commitment to promoting financial inclusion, LSB has opened 12 Branch Lite Units (BLUs) nationwide, bringing reliable and affordable financial services closer to teachers where they live and work. This expansion ensures that more educators can access the support they need without disruption to their daily responsibilities.
Strengthening Partnerships for Education
LSB has deepened its collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd) and other stakeholders to implement programs that uplift teachers and enhance learning environments. These initiatives include:
- Palarong Pambansa in Ilocos Norte
- Brigada Eskwela in Bacacay, Albay
- National Teachers’ Month (NTM) Kick-Off in Koronadal City, South Cotabato
- NTM Mid-Month Celebration in Dumaguete City
Through these partnerships, LSB reinforces its dedication to improving the lives of educators and fostering a culture of appreciation for their service.
Celebrating Teachers Nationwide
LSB proudly supported the NTM culminating activity last October 6, where over 12,000 teachers and education leadersgathered to celebrate National Teachers’ Day.
“Teachers are at the heart of nation-building. Through our partnership with DepEd and the support of BPI and LSB, we are proud to give back to those who have dedicated their lives to shaping future generations,” said Jerome Minglana, LSB President. “All these reflect our vision of helping build a better Philippines—one family, one school, one community at a time.”
Empowering Educators Through Financial Solutions
At the core of LSB’s offerings is the Teacher’s Loan, its flagship product designed to provide educators with quick, convenient, and worry-free access to funds. This solution allows teachers to:
- Apply, submit requirements, and sign loan documents online
- Avoid leaving their classrooms or disrupting their day
- Borrow up to Php 2 million with just one payslip required
- Enjoy fast approval and release
With support from BPI and availability across more than 1,200 BPI and BanKo branches, the Teacher’s Loan ensures that educators can focus on what matters most—their students and their personal well-being.
A Year-Round Commitment
Through meaningful partnerships, relevant financial products, and a steadfast commitment to financial inclusion, LSB continues to honor the nation’s teachers—not just during NTM, but all year round.
For more information about LSB, visit https://www.legazpibank.com.ph.
Tacloban City — Maxim Rides & Food Delivery driver-partners participated in a blood letting event organized by Barangay 84 in collaboration with Eastern Visayas Medical Center on December 19, 2025, at the Barangay 84 Multi-purpose Hall. Maxim joined the initiative after receiving a formal invitation from the Barangay 84 local government, which encouraged private sector partners and community members to support public health and community welfare efforts.
A total of 15 Maxim driver-partners voluntarily took part in the activity, contributing to the collection of approximately 7 liters of blood to help replenish local blood supplies and support patients in need of transfusions. The initiative highlighted the important role of community volunteers in strengthening local healthcare efforts.
To recognize their participation and generosity, Maxim provided the participating driver-partners with one week of zero commission on the platform, allowing them to maximize their earnings while continuing to support meaningful community causes.
“We are proud of our driver-partners who willingly take part in initiatives that directly benefit the community,” said Sedpre Jabagat, Head of Maxim Tacloban. “These efforts reflect our shared commitment to being responsible and engaged members of the communities we serve.”
Kagawad Caloy, organizer of the blood letting activity, also underscored the importance of such collaborations. “This blood letting activity helps address the shortage of blood supply at Eastern Visayas Medical Center, which serves patients across Region 8,” said Kagawad Caloy. “Ngayong Pasko, nagbigay tayo ng regalong hindi nabibili. Ang dugo na nagliligtas ng buhay.”
The activity reflects Maxim’s continued support for community-led programs in Tacloban City, demonstrating how collaboration between barangay units and private sector stakeholders can help promote public health and social responsibility.
- DCPO reports 23.25% decline in criminal incidents in 2025
INDEX crimes dropped by 23.25% in 2025, which the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) attributed to intensified operations and a strong partnership with the local government unit.
Total index crimes decreased from 708 incidents in 2024 to 542 incidents in 2025, reflecting a reduction of 166 cases.
Significant declines were recorded in theft, rape, and robbery through strengthened police visibility and improved law-enforcement effectiveness throughout Davao City.
Index crimes refer to offenses against persons, such as murder, homicide, physical injury, or rape, and property, such as carnapping, theft, robbery, etc. They also serve as a barometer of effective policing, especially when significant reductions in incidents are recorded.
Col Mannan C. Muarip, acting DCPO chief, cited the enforcement of strategic operational plans, intelligence-driven policing, and sustained police visibility for the achievement.
“This substantial reduction in crime is the result of disciplined execution, swift and decisive action, and accountable leadership. Every police unit has been directed to uphold integrity, vigilance, and professionalism in safeguarding our communities,” Muarip emphasized.
He also credited the support of the city government, “whose sustained commitment to peace and order—through policy support, resource augmentation, and inter-agency coordination—has significantly enhanced the DCPO’s capacity to deliver effective, responsive, and people-centered police services.”
The DCPO assured Davaoeños that it will further intensify its crime-prevention and law-enforcement interventions to address emerging threats and sustain peace and order.
“We will not relent. Our commitment remains steadfast—to serve with honor, enforce the law without fear or favor, and ensure that Davao City remains a safe, peaceful, and orderly place for all,” Muarip said.
THE DAVAO City Police Office (DCPO) arrested 64 individuals across various operations from Dec. 28, 2025, to Jan. 3, 2026.
Acting DCPO chief Col Mannan C. Muarip said police conducted 23 anti-drug stings, seizing over P1 million worth of illegal substances, including shabu, marijuana, kush, and marijuana oil. The week-long operations led to the arrest of 28 drug suspects.
In addition to the drug campaign, police units neutralized 23 wanted persons—nine of whom were classified as “most wanted.”
The DCPO also targeted loose firearms through “Oplan Katok,” resulting in the recovery of 10 firearms and the arrest of six suspects.
“These achievements reflect the dedication of our personnel and our strong partnership with the community and the Local Government Unit,” Muarip said.
THE VICES Regulation Unit (VRU) issued citation tickets to three violators of the Anti-Smoking Ordinance after they were caught in the act at an alley along San Pedro Street.
VRU enforcers were deployed to verify a report, resulting in the apprehension of the violators.
The area has since been placed under the VRU watchlist after several apprehensions.
In November 2025, three violators were also issued citation tickets after smoking in the same alley.
VRU posted “No Smoking” signs in the alley and conducted dialogues with the tenants.
City Ordinance No. 0472-24 prohibits smoking in unauthorized areas and will be fined P3,000 and must undergo smoking cessation counseling.
Apart from public places, government-owned establishments, accommodations, and entertainment establishments, the city’s revised comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance strictly prohibits smoking in and within 100 meters of schools, playgrounds, or areas frequented by minors, except in designated smoking areas.
Minors are not allowed in designated smoking areas.
Photo: Davao City Reports
THE 10TH Infantry Division has added 700 new members to its ranks following the graduation of CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA-1) Classes 16–29 on Dec. 28, 2025, after completing an intensive 45-day basic military training in Camp General Manuel T. Yan Sr.
The curriculum encompassed tactical combat casualty care, small-unit operations, and intelligence, as well as modules on human rights, ethics, and community leadership.
The training focused on professional competence and operations, which included small unit operations, weapons proficiency, intelligence, tactical combat casualty care, and the integrated territorial defense system. Instruction on civil-military operations (CMO) and mass base operations was also conducted.
The trainees likewise underwent modules on leadership, ethics, and governance, emphasizing service orientation, respect for human rights, civil relations, values formation, and justice in support of law and order.
Additionally, personal and community development activities were undertaken to enhance individual skills and prepare the CAFGU Active Auxiliary graduates for their roles as protectors and first responders in their respective communities.
During the ceremony, Colonel Silas Trasmontero, chief of staff at the 10th Infantry Division, thanked the graduates for choosing to serve the Filipino people and for partnering with the Philippine Army in safeguarding peace at the grassroots level.
He also emphasized their vital role in sustaining the division’s hard-earned peace gains and supporting ongoing External Security Operations.
Meanwhile, Major General Alvin Luzon, 10th ID commander, said, “The successful training of our CAFGU Active Auxiliaries underscores the 10th Infantry Division’s firm commitment to building capable and disciplined force multipliers.
These additional 700 CAAs are now prepared to help defend our communities, sustain our peace gains, and support security and disaster response operations across Davao Region and neighboring provinces,” said Major General Luzon.
Upon deployment, the newly trained CAFGU Active Auxiliaries will augment regular troops and serve as force multipliers in securing communities within the 10ID Area of Operations, contributing to the sustainment of insurgency-free communities and enhanced security and disaster response capabilities.
AS 2026 unfolds, one reality has become impossible to ignore. For many Filipinos, a single job is no longer enough. Side hustles have moved from the margins of economic life to its center, not as hobbies or temporary fixes, but as deliberate strategies for survival, stability, and growth.
This shift did not happen overnight. It is the result of years of rising costs, uncertain job markets, technological acceleration, and a workforce that has learned, sometimes painfully, that traditional employment alone cannot always guarantee security. In 2026, side hustles are no longer about extra income for luxuries. They are about resilience.
What we are witnessing is not laziness or lack of loyalty to employers, as some critics suggest. It is adaptability. It is people responding intelligently to a changing world.
For decades, Filipinos were taught to aspire to stable, full-time employment as the ultimate goal. That promise has weakened. Inflation continues to strain household budgets. Job security feels fragile. Benefits are not always guaranteed. Many workers now realize that relying on a single income stream places them one emergency away from crisis.
Side hustles have become a practical response to this reality. They allow individuals to cushion financial shocks, support families, and prepare for uncertain futures. In 2026, having multiple sources of income is no longer seen as ambition. It is seen as responsibility. This cultural shift is especially evident among young professionals, parents, educators, and even retirees who refuse to be passive in the face of economic uncertainty.
One of the most significant developments shaping side hustles in 2026 is the normalization of home-based and remote work. What was once considered an exception has become an expectation. Remote work has dismantled geographic barriers that once limited opportunities. Filipinos from provinces, caregiving parents, and individuals with mobility constraints now participate in global labor markets without leaving their homes. This has changed not only where work happens, but who gets access to it.
Home-based work has also reshaped how people define productivity. Output now matters more than physical presence. Skills matter more than location. Flexibility matters more than rigid schedules. This shift has empowered many, but it has also exposed inequalities in digital access and infrastructure. While some thrive in remote setups, others remain excluded due to unreliable internet or lack of digital skills. This is a gap that institutions can no longer ignore.
In 2026, side hustles are not only about money. They are expressions of identity, talent, and agency. Freelancers offer digital services that reflect their expertise. Online tutors share knowledge beyond classroom walls. Micro-entrepreneurs sell products that carry personal stories and creativity. Content creators build communities around shared experiences and ideas. These forms of work challenge outdated notions of productivity. They show that value creation does not always fit neatly into job descriptions. They recognize that people are more than their primary employment titles.
Side hustles allow individuals to claim ownership of their skills and time. They turn passion into purpose and effort into opportunity. Yet, it would be dishonest to romanticize the rise of side hustles without acknowledging their costs. Many workers juggle multiple roles at the expense of rest. Boundaries between work and personal life blur, especially in home-based setups. Income can be inconsistent. Benefits such as health insurance and paid leave are often absent.
There is also a growing pressure to constantly monetize every skill or interest. Not everything needs to become a hustle. Not everyone should be expected to work endlessly just to survive. The challenge in 2026 is not whether side hustles will continue, but how society can support those who rely on them without glorifying burnout.
The rise of side hustles sends a clear message to institutions. The world of work has changed faster than policies and mindsets. Employers must recognize that workers with side hustles are not disloyal. They are realistic. Flexible arrangements, outcome-based performance, and respect for work-life balance are no longer perks. They are necessities.
Educational institutions must also adapt. Preparing students for the future means teaching digital literacy, communication, financial management, and self-directed learning. Side hustles require discipline and adaptability, not just talent. Government and policymakers must acknowledge that a growing portion of the workforce operates outside traditional employment structures. Protection, training, and access to digital infrastructure must evolve to match this reality.
At their core, side hustles in 2026 represent agency. They show people refusing to remain powerless in systems that no longer fully protect them. They reflect creativity in the face of constraint and courage in uncertain times. This does not mean everyone should hustle endlessly. It means people deserve options. They deserve systems that support multiple paths to stability and dignity. The Filipino workforce has always been resourceful. In 2026, that resourcefulness is visible in how people design their livelihoods on their own terms.
Our homes, digital platforms, and virtual workplaces now speak of transformation. They tell stories of individuals rewriting the rules of work, not out of rebellion, but out of necessity. Side hustles are not symptoms of failure. They are responses to reality. They show us where systems fall short and where people step up. As we move deeper into 2026, the question is not whether side hustles will remain. The question is whether our institutions, policies, and culture will catch up.
Because when people adapt faster than systems, it is the systems that must change.
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Kethelle I. Sajonia is a college instructor at the University of Southeastern Philippines, Mintal Campus. She is currently in the final phase of her Doctor of Communication degree at the University of the Philippines. Her research interests include inclusivity, education, communication, and social development. She actively engages in scholarly research and community-based initiatives that advocate for inclusive and transformative communication practices.
