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August 2026

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Radioactive hazard

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron
  • NBI, PAOCC arrest 21, rescue 174 workers in Davao steel plant raid

AUTHORITIES rescued 174 Filipino workers and arrested 21 corporate officers, managers, and personnel on Friday, Aug. 14, following a raid on a large steel manufacturing facility in Bunawan District over alleged substandard products and radioactive materials.

National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director Atty. Melvin Matibag and Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) Usec Benjamin Acorda flew to Davao City to lead the enforcement action against Davao Mighty Steel Corporation in Barangay Ilang.

Among those apprehended were nine Filipinos and 12 Chinese nationals caught managing and operating the plant.

An invisible danger

Joint operatives discovered reported hazardous materials that posed severe, unseen health risks to its workforce and the broader community.

Preliminary findings from the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) confirmed that Davao Mighty Steel Corporation possessed no valid license, permit, or authorization to handle, store, use, or distribute nuclear or radioactive substances. 

PNRI testing detected radiation in steel bars, residual black sand, and various raw materials inside the plant.

The 174 rescued Filipino workers were immediately evacuated from the premises due to potential occupational hazards and a total lack of protective gear against radiation and toxic chemical exposure.

Speaking during a press conference at the Tactical Operations Group XI (TOG XI) headquarters in Sasa following the operation, Acorda emphasized that the prompt intervention saved lives from an “invisible” threat.

“What does this operation mean to the ordinary Filipino? It means protecting the worker in a factory, believing that their workplace is safe. It means protecting our homes, our children in schools, and our patients in hospitals,” Acorda said. “What makes this case really concerning is the danger—it is something ordinary people cannot see.”

“We can’t see radiation, we can’t feel it right away, and this is precisely why we cannot afford to ignore it,” Acorda added. “We don’t want the time to come when we have to act only when people are already getting sick. So let’s stop it now for the next generation.”

Multiple criminal charges filed

In addition to the immediate health threats posed to workers, federal inspectors found quantities of substandard rebar and steel products manufactured on-site, raising alarm over structural safety in construction supply chains across Mindanao.

Matibag confirmed that the National Prosecution Service is preparing an extensive array of criminal charges against the 21 arrested corporate officers and technical personnel.

“We have rescued 174 Filipino workers, and upon investigation, there was no appropriate protective equipment among workers for potential combined chemical and radioactive occupational exposure,” Matibag stated. “A total of 21 individuals—responsible corporate officers, managers, workers, and technical personnel, including 9 Filipinos and 12 Chinese—were arrested.”

According to Matibag, the suspects will face charges for violations of Republic Act 11393 (Philippine Nuclear Safety Act); Republic Act 6969 (Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act of 1990); Presidential Decree 1586 (Environmental Impact Statement System); and Republic Act 7394 (Consumer Act of the Philippines). 

Technical experts from the PNRI and environmental agents remain on-site in Barangay Ilang to secure hazardous materials, conduct detailed radiation mapping, and execute decontamination protocols.

Photos courtesy of PAOCC

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Opinion

HONORING MY MOTHER | No retreat no sure ender

by Icoy San Pedro
written by Icoy San Pedro

I REMEMBER the old days when we were children, we would all be instructed to take afternoon naps after lunch.

Some of our elders (or worse, older siblings who were actually more strict than our parents) would check on us from time to time to see if we were really asleep.

On some occasions, they would teasingly poke us to see any reaction. If there were none, they would chuckle and proclaim, it’s really impossible to wake someone up when he’s only pretending to sleep. Thus, the old Pinoy proverb.

Similarly, on some issues today where varying opinions fly hotly back and forth, it’s quite noticeable that, in many cases, the more unpopular side still hangs tough like avid fans despite overwhelming odds and evidence.

They refuse to accept the mandate of neither what is legal or a majority.

In fact, the avid turns rabid when they employ whatever extent at power they have just to suppress those who go against them. If not for anything else, it’s both confusing and unbelievable at the same time.

I remember a school debate in high school where the losing side, because of its weak defense and flimsy reasoning became the laughingstock of the audience.

Observing closely each member, I had to admire that despite all the heckling, they all appeared unnerved and cool throughout the ordeal.

As they went down the stage, I even overheard one member who still couldn’t accept their loss mutter, “I still don’t get how we could lose.”

All this reminds also me of an old t-shirt drawing of a mouse, seconds only from death but still proudly flipping at the eagle that was hovering above him. The caption read, “The last act of defiance.”

Surely, some perspectives can withstand even the strongest gale.

In fact, this “sticks and stones may break my bones” mentality is like Custer’s last stand and is also synonymous with that road less travelled by Frost.

I can see why, those on the opposite side pull at their hair in frustration, when trying to either win them over or when totally committed to grinding them to the ground.

The same attitude in times of war and conflict exist. In front of the world, diplomacy is casually thrown out the window and in its stead, a devil-may-care posturing is arrogantly paraded.

Despite all odds against them, the antagonists do not ever admit to being wrong.

Meanwhile, pardon me if it may sound derogatory or not politically correct, but when we were children, whenever someone among us during playtime refused to surrender, we likened them to Japanese soldiers in WWII, no retreat no surrender.

In the end, simplistic or not, everything is just different sides of the same coin.

Who readily admits to being wrong? What is another man’s floor is another man’s ceiling.

Even as in every day’s debacles and debates, there is an absolute truth—any opposing force, with feet planted firmly on their own version of a hallowed ground, will just simply declare: Who died and made you king?

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Business

DATA, Japanese developer launches Digital Davao Tourist Passport

by Nova Mae Francas
written by Nova Mae Francas

THE DAVAO Tourism Association (DATA), in partnership with a Japanese tech developer, officially launched the Digital Davao Tourist Passport app on Thursday, Aug. 13, at SM City Davao Annex.

First introduced in physical book form in November 2025, the passport initiative has been transformed into a mobile application under Smart JAMP (Smart City supported by Japan ASEAN Mutual Partnership). 

The software was developed by Japanese tech firm Scheme Verge using its flagship platform, Horai.

Tatsuki Yamanami, CEO of Scheme Verge, said the product name ‘Horai’ derives from ‘hour’ and ‘AI’ which means time and AI.

“By using digital technology, I want to increase the movement of tourists. Many tourists spend a lot of time in transportation or just waiting. I want to change the time spent by tourists from spending just waiting for transport to spending on their joy, or their experience, or their excitement,” Yamanami said.

The soft launching on Thursday offered discounts through digital coupons that users can present at participating establishments in Davao to receive special offers.

He said the digital shift offers a low-cost, scalable solution for local businesses as participating establishments only need to display a printed QR code for visitors to scan via their smartphones, eliminating the need for expensive hardware or devices.

DATA representative Rudolph Alama said the digital app currently features 47 local establishments, with more participating businesses expected to onboard following the soft launch. Full rollout is expected before the year ends. 

“Our initial plan is to promote the establishments, and with the entry of the digital passport, it elevates, levels up with so many features,” Alama said.

Beyond merchant discounts and digital coupons, the app’s long-term vision centers on collecting tourist movement and foot-traffic data to help optimize urban planning, mobility, and future transport initiatives. 

Developers plan to share these insights with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Davao City and DATA to help optimize urban planning, mobility, and future transport initiatives, such as the upcoming Davao Bus Project supported by the Asian Development Bank.

“As the future plan, we are going to collaborate with such transport projects, and after that, we will realize the data-driven decision concerning transportation or placemaking or urban planning,” he said.

Future updates will also include an AI-powered itinerary builder that will automatically optimize multi-stop travel routes for tourists exploring Davao.

The app is available for free download on both Android (Google Play) and iOS (App Store) devices. The physical passport book remains valid for its initial one-year run alongside the digital version.

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Business

Globe powers up 41st Kadayawan with enhanced 5G network, multi-sectoral community drives

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

TELECOMMUNICATIONS leader Globe Telecom formally launched its 5G Pitstop at the Ayala Malls Abreeza Activity Center on Friday, Aug. 14, ushering in a series of tech-driven cultural and community events for Davao City’s 41st Kadayawan Festival.

Aligning with this year’s official festival theme, “We are KadayaONE,” the telecom provider expanded its 5G coverage across key festival hubs in Davao City to handle the influx of tourists and ensure seamless digital connectivity during peak celebration days.

Connecting Culture, Youth, and Conservation

The festival lineup kicked off earlier this month on Aug. 9 with 5G Hypermove , a community fun run along the Azuela Cove coastal road that raised support for the programs of the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF).

Youth engagement continued on August 11 with 5G Building Craft: Paint Tomorrow , a mural art initiative that gave local senior high school and college students a platform to showcase their vision of sustainable, tech-enabled communities.

Under its youth music platform 5G EnergyJam , winning student bands from local Davao communities secured slots to share the stage with mainstream acts during the upcoming G Music Fest on Aug. 16 at the Abreeza Activity Center. 

The festival lineup features OPM icons The Itchyworms, alongside The Dukes, Drew Delgado, and P-Pop groups AYO and HARA.

Empowering Communities Through Digital Platforms

Globe chief marketing officer KD Dizon emphasized that the company’s festival presence aims to blend local heritage with digital empowerment.

“Kadayawan is more than a celebration. It is an opportunity to experience the vibrant culture, creativity, and community spirit that make Davao and Mindanao truly special,” Dizon said in an official statement. “Through our growing 5G network, we are creating platforms where communities can showcase their talents, inspire one another, and go forward together.”

In addition to its brand-led activations, Globe is supporting Davao City’s core traditional highlights, including Konsierto Kadayawan on Aug. 15 and the dual climax of Pamulak ug Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan on Aug. 16, which showcase the cultural heritage of the city’s 11 ethnolinguistic tribes.

The 5G Pitstop interactive hub at Ayala Malls Abreeza remains open to the public through August 16, offering immersive tech displays, partner rewards, and digital service assistance.

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News

Matigsalug educator Christine Faith Gawilan crowned Hiyas sa Kadayawan 2026

by Nova Mae Francas
written by Nova Mae Francas

PUBLIC school teacher Christine Faith Gawilan, representing the Matigsalug tribe, was crowned Hiyas sa Kadayawan 2026.

Her win brings the coveted title back to the Matigsalug community after a hiatus of 13 long years since 2013.

Following her victory, Gawilan said she will push for her primary advocacy of creating detailed cultural documentations focusing on Matigsalug traditions, heritage, and tutorials to capture the knowledge of tribal elders and store it for future generations.

“Akong unang buhaton karon as a teacher, akoa gyud i-implement ang akong advocacy dili lang sa akong mga estudyante, kundi pati sa akong kauban nga mga Indigenous People and as well as Moro,” she said during the post-pageant interview on Aug. 13.

“Mag-highlight pod mi sa among cultural video project, nga about sa documentation. So, i-document namo ang among mga cultures and traditions para nga naa gyuy access ang musunod sa amoa, dili na sila maglilisod pangita og kanang mga resources para ma-explain nila og maayo kung unsa gyud ang among kultura,” Gawilan added.

Gawilan expressed immense gratitude and joy, noting that her triumph belongs not to her alone, but to the entire Matigsalug community.

“I carry my identity as a Matigsalug. Kay kami tanan hawod man gyud ang 11 ka ethnolinguistic groups, pero sa akong sarili, akua gyung gidala-dala ang akong identity as a Matigsalug,” Gawilan shared. 

Beyond educational projects, Gawilan committed to working directly with local leadership to protect ancestral domain rights. 

She emphasized plans to collaborate closely with tribal elders, the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR), deputy mayors, and local government units (LGUs) to strengthen the implementation of the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA).

Addressing how she plans to handle her responsibilities, Gawilan affirmed her commitment to her public school teaching role while working closely with city tourism officials to carry out her duties as the new cultural ambassador.

When asked about her plans for the cash prize awarded to the winner, she shared her intention to consult with tribal leaders to direct a portion of the funds toward initiatives that directly benefit her local community.

“You shouldn’t wait until you hold a crown to take action. Even before having a title, you should already be doing something for your community,” Gawilan urged aspiring young indigenous peoples. 

Matigsalug deputy mayor Carlito A. Guinto Jr. told TIMES he pledged full support for the Hiyas to help execute her upcoming programs and initiatives.

Addressing the challenges facing the indigenous community today, the tribal leader highlighted the double-edged impact of modern technology on younger generations.

While acknowledging that unchecked technology risks diluting traditional practices, he emphasized its potential as a powerful tool for cultural promotion if used correctly.

“If we look at the disadvantages, technology can erode tradition and culture, but the advantage is that it can also be used to promote our heritage,” he stressed.

Gawilan also received Best in Community Project Video and the  PLDT People’s Choice award.

Meanwhile, Bai Ayessa Mangansakan of Maguindanaon was crowned Hiyas sa Panaghiusa 2026 while Hiyas sa Kalambuan is Marziyah Channa Abinal of Meranaw. 

Abinal received Smart People’s Choice Award, while Jamaica Prado of Kagan was awarded Best in Cultural Presentation. 

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CommunityEnvironment

Rescued Philippine Eagle Sawaga-Dalwangan died of bacterial infection, PEF confirms

by Nova Mae Francas
written by Nova Mae Francas

A BACTERIAL infection was the most likely cause of death of Sawaga-Dalwangan, the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) confirmed on Wednesday. 

The eagle died on July 18 despite weeks of treatment and apparent signs of recovery following her rescue.

In a statement on Wednesday, the PEF said laboratory results from tissue samples taken from the eagle’s liver, heart, and spleen showed evidence of a serious bacterial infection that had spread throughout her body.

Bacteria were detected in her liver, and inflammation and damage were found in several organs, including the liver and heart.

Together with the findings from her medical examination and necropsy, the results show that a widespread bacterial infection was the most likely cause of her death (bacteremia/ septicimia).

The tissue changes suggest the infection might have developed over a subacute to chronic period, possibly beginning weeks before she died, according to the PEF.

When Sawaga-Dalwangan was rescued on July 3, she was already in a compromised state showing dehydration, lethargic, and heavily soiled, with external wounds, maggot infestation, and injuries associated with airgun pellets. 

These conditions made her more susceptible to a secondary bacterial infection.

While the eagle showed encouraging signs of improvement, where her wounds began healing, became better hydrated, her appetite improved, and she displayed normal behaviors again, a later examination found that a serious infection remained present in her body.

Sawaga-Dalwangan suddenly developed generalized seizures on July 18 and died shortly afterward despite immediate emergency care. 

“We are sharing these findings because Sawaga-Dalwangan’s story deserves an ending based on scientific evidence, and because everyone who followed her journey and hoped for her recovery deserves to understand what happened,” PEF said. 

Copies of the Comprehensive Veterinary Report and the Histopathological Examination Report may be requested from the Philippine Eagle Foundation through info@philippineeaglefoundation.org

The histopathological examination was conducted by the Central Mindanao University College of Veterinary Medicine.

To note, the eagle was found near the Sawaga River in Barangay Dalwangan in Malaybalay City.

Barangay Dalwangan lies within the Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park, which holds the second-oldest known breeding territory for the species, with nesting activity documented continuously since 1986, making it one of the longest-monitored Philippine Eagle nesting territories in the world.

PEF reported that there are an estimated 400 breeding pairs of the Philippine eagle left, emphasizing its strengthened protection.

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Community

Australian Ambassador pays visit to Cagayan de Oro City

by Contributor
written by Contributor

AUSTRALIA’S Ambassador to the Philippines Marc Innes-Brown visited Cagayan de Oro City and Misamis Oriental Province on Tuesday and Wednesday this week as part of Australia’s ongoing efforts to pursue trade and investment opportunities across the Philippines.

Ambassador Innes-Brown delivered a keynote speech at the Cagayan de Oro Investment Forum and Mayor’s Night, as well as attending the 35th Mindanao Business Conference at the Limketkai commercial complex.

In his remarks, the Ambassador highlighted Australia’s commitment to increasing trade and investment with the Philippines, including Mindanao: “More than 240 Australian companies now operate in the Philippines, employing over 68,000 people. They are investing for the long term because they believe in the future of the Philippines.”

“Under Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, we see enormous opportunities in clean energy, critical minerals, agriculture, digital technologies, infrastructure, education and advanced manufacturing. We see these opportunities not only in Metro Manila, but right here in Mindanao where our partnership is already delivering tangible results.

“Australian investment supported development of the Tantangan Solar Power Plant in South Cotabato, one of Mindanao’s most significant renewable energy projects which will deliver clean energy to over 82,000 households.”

Ambassador Innes-Brown also paid a courtesy call to Misamis Oriental Governor Juliette Uy to discuss the bilateral relationship and Australia’s longstanding support for Mindanao:

“As we celebrate 80 years of Australia-Philippines diplomatic relations, our partnership has never been stronger. For more than three decades, we have worked alongside governments, communities and the private sector to support peace, stability and development, including through the peace process that led to the establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

“These partnerships reflect Australia’s commitment to a Mindanao that is peaceful, prosperous, resilient and inclusive.”

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Community

Manulife China Bank Life Champions Early Health Action and Financial Planning at The Art of Longevity

by Contributor
written by Contributor

From L to R: Gerry Susmerano (Retail Banking Business Co-Segment Head, Chinabank); Dr. Hidelisa Bondoc (Longevity Medicine Physician); Paul Kalogirou (Head of Client Portfolio Management, APAC, Manulife Investment Management); Amy Gochuico (President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife China Bank Life); Dr. Conrado Gabriel C. Lorenzo, III (Chair, Medical Advisory Council & Head, Department of Medical Oncology, Healthway Cancer Care Hospital); Divya Mehta (VP of Commercial, Guardant Health); Dr. Manuel Francisco T. Roxas (President and Chief Executive Officer, Healthway Cancer Care Hospital); and Patrick Cheng (Chief Financial Officer, Chinabank)

MANILA—Manulife China Bank Life Assurance Corporation (MCBL), the strategic alliance between Manulife Philippines and China Banking Corporation, hosted The Art of Longevity on August 11, 2026, an event that brought together more than a hundred MCBL customers, financial sales associates, bank partners, and health and wealth experts to explore how to plan for a longer, healthier future.

As Filipinos live longer, The Art of Longevity underscored the need for long-term planning in two areas: proactive health management through prevention and early detection, and building financial resilience and preparedness to support the years ahead.

“Living longer is a gift, but it also requires more intentional planning so people can make the most of every stage of life. Health, protection, and financial confidence must work together to support the future our customers want. Through The Art of Longevity, MCBL is bringing together the right conversations, partners, and solutions to help Filipinos take practical steps sooner. By empowering more people to act early, we can help them live better for longer,” said Amy Gochuico, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife China Bank Life.  

The event also raised awareness of cancer as a major health challenge that can affect longevity and emphasized the importance of taking early steps to prevent, detect, and manage health risks. According to a recent Manulife Philippines study, cancer is one of the most feared diseases among Filipinos. Yet, many delay screenings. A 2023 report by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies also noted that only 1% of Filipino women go through cancer screening. Cancer is often found only in its later stages, and in the Philippines, 65% of breast cancer cases are only diagnosed when it is in its advanced stages. Together with healthcare partners Ayala Health Holdings, Inc. (AC Health), Healthway Cancer Care Hospital, andGuardant Health, the discussion looked at how cancer risk can build up over time, why early detection matters, and how newer tests and coordinated care are helping people act sooner. 

Building on this focus, the event also highlighted MCBL’s recently launched partnership with Guardant Health, which gives eligible customers access to Shield™ Multi-Cancer Detection laboratory developed test. The conversations broadened the discussion from early detection to the everyday choices, coordinated care, and long-term financial planning that can help people sustain both health and wealth over a longer lifespan.

The event also reinforced the importance of financial preparedness as markets shift and lifespans extend. This focus on longer-term planning reflects the role of MCBL’s bancassurance model in helping customers connect protection, savings, and wealth-building needs. By bringing together Manulife’s insurance and protection solutions with Chinabank’s banking and wealth-building expertise, MCBL helps Filipinos create plans that support their life goals and strengthen their financial future.

The Art of Longevity is aligned with ManulifeMOVE, the company’s holistic health program, and reflects MCBL’s role as a lifelong partner helping Filipinos care for both their health and financial future through solutions tailored to their needs. It also aligns to the Manulife Longevity Institute, a global research, thought leadership, innovation, advocacy, and community partnership platform, which drives action to help people live longer, healthier, and more financially secure lives.

To learn more about ManulifeMOVE, visit manulife-chinabank.com.ph.

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CommunityFeatured

Cebu Pacific Resumes International Connectivity for Davao

by Contributor
written by Contributor

Cebu Pacific will resume its direct flights from Davao to Hong Kong and Bangkok (Don Mueang), along with increased frequencies to Iloilo and Siargao, giving travelers greater connectivity from Mindanao.

ROUTESTART OF OPSWEEKLY FREQETDETA
Davao – Hong KongOct 254x (Mo, We, Fr, Su)8:20 AM11:50 AM
Hong Kong – Davao12:35 PM3:55 PM
Davao – Bangkok (Don Mueang)Oct 263x  (Mo, We, Fr)5:00 PM8:30 PM
Bangkok (Don Mueang) – Davao9:15 PM2:50 AM

Starting October 25, CEB will resume its direct flights between Davao and Hong Kong, operating four times weekly – every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Meanwhile, direct flights to Don Mueang (Bangkok) will start on October 26, with thrice weekly flights every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

ADDITIONAL FREQUENCY
ROUTEFROMTO
Davao – Siargao – Davao6x weekly10x weekly
Davao – Iloilo – Davao10x weekly14x weekly

To further strengthen its domestic reach, the airline will also be increasing its Davao-Siargao flights, from 6x weekly to 10x weekly flights, while Davao-Iloilo services will grow from 10x weekly to 14x weekly flights, providing travelers more flexibility and convenient travel options.

Travelers from Mindanao can now immerse themselves in Siargao’s laid-back island charm and world-famous surf spots or explore Iloilo’s rich heritage, thriving food culture, and well-preserved historical landmarks. Outside the country, Hong Kong offers visitors unique experiences with its vibrant cityscape and culinary scene, while Thailand highlights its rich cultural heritage and renowned street food.

To further encourage travel, CEB also has an ongoing seat sale until August 15. Passengers may book their flights to all domestic and international destinations on sale for as low as PHP 88 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges. The travel period will also be from September 1 to December 31, 2026.

CEB operates in 35 Philippine and 26 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

Passengers can make their journey more convenient by purchasing additional baggage allowance and pre-ordering meals for their flight.

CEB offers various payment options, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets, to book flights and buy add-ons.

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CommunityFeatured

Ayala Land Emerges as Top Winner at the 2026 HR Excellence Awards Philippines

by Contributor
written by Contributor

From left, Reynand Viñan, Employee Relations Manager, Human Resources, Ayala Land, Chris Macasaet, Center of Excellence for Learning and Development, Human Resources, Ayala Land, Justin Carpio, Head of Workforce Analytics, Human Resources, Ayala Land, Ernest Valencia, Digital Transformation Director, Ayala Land, Mikoy Arcaina, Center of Excellence for Culture and Organizational Development, Human Resources, Ayala Land, Priya Sunil, Deputy Editor, Human Resources Online, SEA Editorial, Isabel Sagun, Chief Human Resources Officer, Ayala Land, Leah Yvette Alay-ay, Human Resources Manager, Ayala Land, Jem Calungcaguin, Culture, Employee Experience & Communications Head, Makati Development Corporation (MDC), Alexandria Nuqui, Center of Excellence for Total Rewards, Human Resources, Ayala Land, Karla De Jesus, Associate Director, Corporate Communications, Ayala Property Management Corporation (APMC), Jireh Aguilar, HR Training Manager, Ayala Land Hospitality, and Kyle Aranza, Culture, Employee Experience & Communications Manager, Makati Development Corporation (MDC)

Property leader takes home nine awards, including six Golds, from a field of 64 organizations

Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI) emerged as the overall top-performing organization at the 5th HR Excellence Awards Philippines, held on August 6 at the Grand Hyatt Manila, after securing the highest number of awards among 64 participating organizations. ALI took home six Gold, two Silver, and one Bronze award, giving it the highest award tally among all participating organizations.

Organized annually by Human Resources Online, the HR Excellence Awards is one of the country’s most prestigious recognitions for human resources excellence. The awards recognize organizations that demonstrate excellence in people practices, innovation, and business impact, with winners selected by an independent panel of senior HR and business leaders across categories spanning talent management, learning and development, employee experience, rewards, digital transformation, and workplace culture.

Ayala Land was recognized alongside some of the country’s leading organizations, including Amazon, AXA, DHL, FedEx, Globe, ING Hubs, Manulife, Maxicare Group, Maya, Nestlé, and Sun Life.

“We’re honored by this recognition because it reflects what matters most to us: creating a workplace where people can thrive, grow, and do meaningful work together,” said Isa Sagun, Chief Human Resources Officer of Ayala Land, who delivered the closing remarks at the ceremony. “This recognition belongs to every ALIzen,” she added. “Building a workplace where people thrive is a collective effort, and this award reflects the passion, dedication, and heart of our entire team.”

Awards received:

Gold — Best HR Team

For transforming HR into one integrated enterprise team through stronger governance, shared technology, standardized people practices, and closer collaboration across Ayala Land’s business units.

Gold — Excellence in Performance Management Evolution

For redesigning performance management into a more transparent, consistent, and digital system through HIVE, standardized goal setting, regular Connect Conversations, and merit-based performance outcomes.

Gold — Excellence in Learning and Development

For building a business-driven learning ecosystem that develops critical capabilities through targeted academies, leadership programs, digital learning, and enterprise-wide access to continuous development.

Gold — Excellence in In-House Talent Pipeline Strategy

For building a strong internal talent pipeline through enterprise-wide talent reviews, succession planning, individual development plans, leadership development, and internal career opportunities.

Gold — Excellence in Agile Talent Mobility

For creating structured internal mobility pathways — including secondments, cross-SBU assignments, transfers, and promotions — that accelerate talent development while meeting critical business needs.

Gold — Excellence in CSR

For creating shared value through Ayala Land Carbon Forests, combining climate action with community development in partnership with local communities, NGOs, and indigenous groups to protect and restore forests.

Silver — Excellence in Total Rewards Strategy

For transforming Total Rewards into a unified, performance-driven strategy that aligns pay, benefits, and recognition with business outcomes while strengthening fairness and consistency.

Silver — Excellence in Corporate Wellness

For building the ALIve to Thrive Framework, a holistic wellness strategy integrating medical, physical, mental, financial, social, spiritual, and environmental wellbeing into the employee experience.

Bronze — Excellence in Digital Transformation

For transforming the end-to-end customer journey through an integrated digital ecosystem that streamlines sales, financing, and customer engagement across Ayala Land’s businesses.

The recognition underscores Ayala Land’s commitment to a workplace where people can grow, thrive, and make a meaningful impact. The company continues to invest in its people and foster a culture that empowers employees to help create sustainable communities and build a better Philippines.

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