BY ALEX ALAGON
PASIG CITY, Philippines – TP in the Philippines, a global leader in digital business services, launched an expanded Artificial Intelligence (AI) Literacy Training component under its Skills Training to Employment Program (TP STEP), reinforcing the company’s commitment to preparing near-hires for the changing demands in the business process industry.
The enhanced learning track is being implemented in partnership with CyberGuardiansPH, a non-profit organization dedicated to co-creating a safer cyberspace through collaborations with both the public and private sectors. Through the integration of AI Ready ASEAN training modules and learning sessions, TP STEP participants will gain foundational and practical knowledge on artificial intelligence, digital responsibility, and emerging workplace technologies.
Under TP STEP, trainees are required to complete a comprehensive 15-day learning journey with TP, which now includes AI literacy and readiness modules alongside core employability and customer experience training. Participants who complete the program will graduate with enhanced exposure to digital tools, equipping them with skills increasingly relevant in today’s technology-driven business environment.
In partnership with the Pasig LGU, the program has helped improve employability among aspiring professionals and members of local communities by providing industry-relevant training and pathways to careers in the IT-BPM sector. The inclusion of AI-focused learning reflects the growing importance of digital transformation across industries and the increasing integration of AI-powered solutions within the workplace.
“As AI continues to reshape industries globally, it is important that workforce development programs evolve alongside these advancements,” said TP in the Philippines VP for Human Resources Rachel Cacabelos. “By integrating AI literacy into TP STEP, we are helping ensure that more applicants gain meaningful exposure to the technologies that are becoming part of everyday operations in the customer experience and business services sector.”
The program enhancement also mirrors how TP’s own operations increasingly incorporate AI-enabled tools and systems in delivering services to clients and improving internal efficiencies, combining technological innovation with human expertise, empathy, and critical thinking to deliver better outcomes for customers and organizations alike.
AI Ready ASEAN is a regional initiative launched by the ASEAN Foundation, with CyberGuardiansPH as one of its local implementing partners, with support from Google.org. It aims to equip individuals from ASEAN Member states with essential AI skills. “AI readiness and cybersecurity awareness are becoming essential competencies in today’s digital economy,” said CyberGuardiansPH Executive Director Paolo Sangil. “Through this partnership, we hope to help empower more Filipinos with practical knowledge that will support both their employability and responsible participation in an increasingly AI-enabled world.”
The rollout of the enhanced program forms part of TP in the Philippines’ continuing efforts to support inclusive talent development, digital upskilling, and future-ready workforce initiatives as the company marks 30 years of operations in the country.
Cardio-Renal-Metabolic policy roundtable highlights need for more integrated care in the Philippines
Millions of Filipinos live with overlapping heart, kidney, and metabolic conditions – often without knowing it until the disease has already advanced. These interconnected illnesses, collectively known as cardio-renal-metabolic (CRM) diseases, share common risk factors, frequently occur together, and place a growing health and economic burden on patients, families, and the healthcare system.
Recognizing this challenge, ACCESS Health International (AHI) convened the Cardio-Renal-Metabolic Policy Roundtable on July 30, 2026, together with the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI) and the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP), with support from Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines.
The forum brought together leaders and representatives from government, healthcare organizations, patient organizations, academia, and the private sector—including the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), the National Kidney Transplant Institute (NKTI), the Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations (PAPO), and the Ateneo Policy Center, among others, to identify policy opportunities for strengthening integrated CRM care in the Philippines.
“Because these conditions do not exist in isolation, protecting our citizens requires investing in early primary care. PhilHealth stands firm in its commitment to expanding financial risk protection, strengthening primary care financing, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of chronic disease management,” said Atty. Eli Dino D. Santos, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, PhilHealth.
In the Philippines, about one in five Filipinos aged 15 years and older lives with at least one chronic condition, including hypertension, chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, or cardiovascular disease.
The economic impact is equally significant, with CKD alone costing an estimated PHP 593.7 billion in 2023, equivalent to 41% of the country’s total healthcare expenditure. Because CKD often occurs alongside other CRM conditions, these interconnected diseases place a compounding strain on patients and the healthcare systems, reinforcing the need for coordinated action to strengthen prevention, early detection, and long-term CRM care.
“The burden of chronic kidney disease extends beyond direct healthcare costs. It affects patients’ ability to work, creates productivity losses, and impacts families and the healthcare system. Understanding these costs can help inform interventions and policies that support earlier detection, prevent disease progression, and improve patient outcomes,” said Dr. Anthony Russell Villanueva, Consultant Nephrologist, NKTI.The roundtable identified key opportunities to strengthen integrated CRM care, with discussions centered on prevention, early detection, patient access, coordinated care, and evidence-informed policymaking. Participants underscored the importance of helping people receive earlier diagnoses, more connected care, and better long-term health outcomes through collaboration across sectors. They also highlighted opportunities to further integrate CRM priorities into national health policies and programs, including strengthening health information systems, disease registries, and sustainable financing mechanisms.
Reinforcing these priorities, the Department of Health (DOH) highlighted ongoing efforts to bridge gaps and expand access to chronic kidney disease care, while PhilHealth reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening financial protection for sustainable chronic disease care.
The forum featured a presentation from ACCESS Health International on CRM policy gaps and opportunities in the Philippines, alongside insights from the National Kidney Transplant Institute, the Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations, and the Ateneo Policy Center on the economic burden of chronic kidney disease and key policy recommendations. Boehringer Ingelheim also shared regional health systems perspectives on integrated CRM care across Asia Pacific.
“No single institution can advance integrated cardio-renal-metabolic care alone. The next step is translating evidence into action by identifying shared priorities, defining responsibilities, and sustaining collaboration across sectors. Through this dialogue, we hope to build consensus on practical steps that can help advance integrated CRM care in the Philippines,” said Dr. Rohini Omkar Prasad, Regional Director and Director for Research and Advisory, ACCESS Health International.
As part of its long-standing commitment to improving outcomes for people living with interconnected heart, kidney, and metabolic conditions, Boehringer Ingelheim continues to support initiatives that strengthen prevention, enable earlier detection, and promote more coordinated care.
Appointment strengthens technology execution and enterprise transformation capabilities to support sustainable growth, operational transformation, and customer experience
MANILA—Manulife Philippines, the local arm of leading international financial services provider Manulife, today announced the appointment of Ganesh Murugesan as Chief Information Officer.He will be part of the company’s executive committee.
Prior to his appointment, Ganesh served as Head of Delivery for Manulife Philippines and was part of Manulife’s Regional Technology team in Hong Kong for the past eight years. During this time, he has played a key role in strengthening delivery capabilities and leading major transformation programs across the region. With nearly 25 years’ professional experience, Ganesh draws on a strong track record of shaping and delivering technology solutions that support distribution growth, enable operational transformation, and enhance customer experience across insurers in Asia.
“Ganesh brings deep expertise and a strong execution track record that will be critical as we continue to strengthen our technology capabilities and drive transformation across the business,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “His regional experience and leadership will help us deliver more seamless, efficient, and customer-focused solutions, supporting our ambition to be the #1 choice for Filipino customers. He will play an important role in connecting our technology priorities more closely to business outcomes, ensuring we deliver consistent, high-quality experiences at scale.”
“I’m excited to work with colleagues across Manulife Philippines to strengthen execution and technology capabilities that help us deliver better outcomes for our customers, distributors, and colleagues. By investing in our people and transforming our business through AI and innovation, we can improve customer experience, increase speed to market, and accelerate the company’s growth ambitions,” said Ganesh Murugesan, Chief Information Officer, Manulife Philippines.
Award-winning campaign highlights the dual role of green infrastructure in managing stormwater and creating community spaces
QUEZON CITY — Vertis North, Ayala Land’s 29-hectare mixed-use estate in Quezon City, received a Silver Award for Excellence in Brand Strategy at the Marketing Excellence Awards Philippines, held on August 7 at the Grand Hyatt Manila in BGC, Taguig.
Precy Abella – Accounts Director , Passion Fruit Marketing Collaborations (PFM), Anne Baylon-Jara – Brand and Project Marketing Head, Ayala Land Estates, Wigiela Manlavi – Marketing Manager for Vertis North, Ayala Land Estates, Denice Lao-Manandala – Founder, Passion Fruit Marketing Collaborations (PFM), Raymund Bilo – Marketing Associate, Passion Fruit Marketing Collaborations (PFM)
The award-winning campaign highlighted the Rain Garden’s dual role as a stormwater management system and a two-hectare green space for recreation and community life—showing how infrastructure can be integrated into the everyday experience of an estate.
At the center of the campaign is a piece of Ayala Land engineering that most visitors experience simply as a park. The Vertis North Rain Garden is a two-hectare green space that doubles as a stormwater catchment system, with the capacity to store up to 5,318 cubic meters, or about 5.3 million liters, of stormwater. Green and inviting on the surface, engineered below to capture and manage rainwater, and reduce stormwater runoff. It is part of Ayala Land’s wider approach to climate-resilient estate design, where parks are built not only for recreation but also to filter pollutants, recharge groundwater, cool the urban environment, and support everyday community life.
Launched in 2025, the campaign brought this dual role into the spotlight, showcasing the Rain Garden as both an important element of the estate’s resilience infrastructure and a destination where people could gather, connect, and experience Vertis North in a new way.
Through social media content and community-driven activities, the campaign generated increased interest and foot traffic within the estate while encouraging audiences to experience and share the Rain Garden online. It helped transform the space from an often-overlooked estate feature into a recognizable destination within Vertis North, while making its environmental and protective functions more visible to the community.
The campaign reinforced Vertis North’s position as a modern, people-centered estate where thoughtful urban planning strengthens climate resilience while enhancing everyday experiences. At Vertis North, the Rain Garden demonstrates how infrastructure can also become a space that people see, use, and value every day—reflecting Ayala Land’s broader approach to creating estates that are resilient, connected, and responsive to the communities they serve.
With its Water Safety Plan rated excellent by the Department of Health, the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP) helps assure Dabawenyos that their drinking water supply is safe and dependable.
DAVAO CITY — The Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP) has earned an Excellent Rating of 95.17% following the renewal and acceptance of its Water Safety Plan (WSP), reinforcing the project’s continuous commitment to maintaining safe and reliable treated bulk water for Davao City.
Achieving an excellent rating from the Department of Health (DOH) – Davao Center for Health Development, indicates that the project has demonstrated a high level of compliance with WSP requirements, including identifying and managing risks, monitoring water quality, and maintaining proper treatment protocols.
Submitted to the DOH for review, the project’s WSP was formally accepted in accordance with DOH Administrative Order No. 2017-0006, or the Guidelines for the Review and Approval of the Water Safety Plans of Drinking-Water Service Providers. The Certificate of WSP Acceptance was issued on May 20, 2026.
The DCBWSP, a public-private partnership between the Davao City Water District (DCWD) and Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. (Apo Agua) is guided by this WSP to identify and manage risks to water quality throughout the treatment, testing, and delivery of surface water from the Tamugan River to DCWD. Simply put, the WSP provides a system to prevent water-quality problems before they happen. DCBWSP’s WSP excellent rating reflects the project’s strong measures to ensure safe and quality water every day.
Because of this excellent rating from the DOH, Dabawenyos can be assured that the treated bulk water supplied to DCWD is subject to strong safeguards for water quality. This means more people can have reliable drinking water at home, reducing the need to get water from other sources or rely on water deliveries. It also means less time and money spent getting water, leaving more for other important needs.
Reliable Water Empowers Communities
This is already being felt in the Panacan Relocation, where residents once relied on water deliveries and stored drums now have a more consistent water supply direct from the tap since the DCBWSP began operations.
Long-time resident Gerry Dagatan recalled the challenged they faced before the improved supply, when families had to fetch water and purchase separate water for drinking. Today, he said, water is readily available from their taps.
“Karon, sa gripo na gyud tanan. Usahay imnon pa gani. Mas lami pa sa distilled water, bugnaw pa,” Dagatan said. (Now, everything comes from the tap. Sometimes, we even drink it directly [from the tap]. It tastes better than distilled water, and it’s cold too)
For resident Grace Olacao, the improvement has likewise changed how her household gets its drinking water. “Karon limpyo na gyud. Wa na ko nag-mineral water. Gripo na ko diretso,” she said. (Now, the water is really clean. I no longer buy mineral water. I drink directly from the tap)
These community experiences underscore the importance of maintaining not only a reliable water supply but also strong safeguards for water quality throughout the bulk water supply process.
With a capacity of 300 million liters per day (MLD), the DCBWSP provides treated surface water to DCWD and contributes to diversifying and strengthening Davao City’s water supply sources as the city continues to grow.
The project’s improved WSP assessment demonstrates its continuing commitment to strengthening water safety practices and maintaining high standards for the quality of treated bulk water supplied to Davao City.
Through the DCBWSP, continued attention to water quality and safety supports the shared goal of providing Dabawenyos with a safe, reliable, and sustainable water supply.
A LIFETIME of memories deserves a future filled with more healthy moments to cherish. This Sept. 13, Robinsons Malls celebrates the enduring spirit of grandparents through a wellness Grand Walkathon that encourages staying active, nurturing meaningful connections, and embracing the joy of living well.
Bringing together grandparents, families, and members of the community, the Grand Walkathon transforms every step into a celebration of a life well lived. The event offers a gentle reminder that each stride can lead to a healthier tomorrow, and that wellness is a journey best shared with the people who matter most.
“Through initiatives like this, Robinsons Malls reinforce its commitment to building spaces designed for communities, encouraging our grandparents to prioritize their well-being while creating opportunities for families to spend meaningful time together,” said Jess Zulueta III, head of marketing at Robinsons Malls.
Joining is as easy as making a purchase. Simply present a single-receipt purchase from any participating store at select Robinsons Malls to enjoy the experience.
Participating locations include Robinsons Magnolia, Novaliches, Antipolo, Roxas, Tacloban, Iligan, Bacolod, General Santos, Butuan, Tuguegarao, Starmills, Gapan, Ilocos, Angeles, Galleria South, Las Piñas, Dasmariñas, General Trias, Jaro, and Pavia.
Through accessible and community-centered activities, Robinsons Malls continues to champion spaces where people of every generation can find opportunities to live healthier and more fulfilling lives.
It’s time to get Lolos and Lolas moving this Grandparents’ Day! For more announcements and updates, visit www.robinsonsmalls.com, download the RMalls+ app, or follow Robinsons Malls on social media.
BY ALEX ALAGON
FOLLOWING the enthusiasm for the ShopeeVIP subscription program launched last year, Shopee officially launched its latest subscription program, ShopeeVIP+.
Through its ‘One Subscription unlocks Netflix & More’ offering, ShopeeVIP+ offers even more attractive deals and a broader range of benefits designed to complement users’ everyday lives. Starting today, ShopeeVIP+ users will enjoy access to Netflix, the world’s leading entertainment service. The launch of ShopeeVIP+ reinforces Shopee and Netflix’s shared commitment to users across Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines. The rollout across these three markets marks a strategic step in engaging audiences across the region.
Today, the shopping experience goes beyond simply purchasing products; it is also about the convenience and added benefits that come with every transaction. Greater value through relevant services, faster delivery, and attractive promotions have become key considerations for users when shopping online. Starting today, ShopeeVIP+ subscribers can enjoy a comprehensive range
of benefits including Netflix Access, Daily Free Shipping with no Minimum Spend, and Daily and Monthly Discount Vouchers.
With access to Netflix, ShopeeVIP+ users can stream their favourite films and series — from acclaimed global hits like Squid Game and Stranger Things, to top Filipino favorites such as Ganito, Ganyan, Ganoon, 18th Rose, Call My Mother, Someone, Someday and The Master Cutter.
Jack Ng, head of commercial at Shopee Philippines, said, “We know that every peso counts, and at Shopee, we are always looking for ways to bring the best value to our shoppers. With ShopeeVIP+, we want to bring more value into one subscription, combining the shopping benefits users already enjoy with access to world-class entertainment through Netflix. We are excited to welcome Netflix as a strategic partner as we continue building ShopeeVIP+ into a more useful and rewarding part of everyday life for Filipino consumers. This marks an important step for the program, and we will continue enhancing it to deliver even greater relevance and value to Filipino consumers.”
Tizar Patria Irsyadi, Netflix’s head of business development and partnerships for Southeast Asia, said, “We’re excited to collaborate with Shopee through ShopeeVIP+, bringing together Netflix’s world-leading entertainment offering with Shopee’s strength in delivering everyday value. This is Netflix’s first e-commerce partnership in Southeast Asia, and it reflects our focus on building long-term relationships that deliver meaningful value for consumers. With a growing slate of Southeast Asian stories alongside global entertainment, Netflix has something for everyone across languages, genres, and formats. We are focused on expanding the ways we connect with members through thoughtful partnerships that allow more Filipinos to enjoy a world-class Netflix experience.”
ShopeeVIP+ Brings More Excitement in One Subscription Program
From shopping for everyday essentials to unwinding with one’s favorite shows, ShopeeVIP+ now brings together shopping benefits and premium entertainment access in one unique subscription. Users can also access all monthly benefits available under the program, including Free Shipping Vouchers, access to VIP Day, and other Discount Vouchers that can be used across Shopee. Subscription benefits include:
- Netflix Access: By subscribing to ShopeeVIP+ starting from PHP140 per month users can now enjoy Netflix Mobile Plan access.
- Daily Free Shipping with No Minimum Spend: Users can enjoy Unlimited Free Shipping Delivery Vouchers for a more convenient and cost-effective shopping experience.
- Daily Discount Vouchers: ShopeeVIP+ membership offers a variety of daily discount vouchers, including 20% off selected brands.
- More Exclusive Benefits: Shopee VIP members can upgrade their subscription to VIP+ for an additional PHP41/month, and enjoy even more perks, including monthly vouchers and 0% interest SPayLater benefits.
- Other Benefits: ShopeeVIP+ members can also enjoy exclusive perks from other brand partners, including Canva Pro, ChatGPT Go, and Duolingo.
Selecting Your Netflix Plan in ShopeeVIP+
The ShopeeVIP+ with Netflix Mobile Plan starts from PHP140 / month for a multi-month subscription plan, and PHP169 / month for a single-month subscription plan. ShopeeVIP+ subscribers can upgrade their ShopeeVIP+ Netflix Mobile plan to Netflix Basic, Standard, or Premium Plan access.
With these flexible choices, users can enjoy a Netflix viewing experience that suits their needs while continuing to enjoy ShopeeVIP+ benefits in one subscription program that offers greater savings and value.
For those who prefer enjoying their favorite shows and movies solo, the Mobile Plan offers a practical option for streaming on a smartphone or tablet, on one device. For a more complete viewing experience, the Premium Plan offers up to Ultra HD quality, allows streaming on up to four devices simultaneously, and allows downloads on 6 supported devices, making it ideal for enjoying favorite shows and movies with family and loved ones.
ShopeeVIP+ benefits, including Netflix access, can be enjoyed through a simple subscription process on the Shopee app. Here’s how:
- First, open the Shopee app on your device.
- On the Me Page select the ShopeeVIP icon.
- Select the ShopeeVIP+ subscription package.
- Make sure you have selected your preferred Netflix Plan.
- Tap “Subscribe” and select your preferred subscription period.
- Complete the payment using one of the available payment methods.
- Once successful, you will receive a notification confirming that you are officially a ShopeeVIP+ member.
To make the shopping experience even more exciting, ShopeeVIP+ subscribers in the Philippines can look forward to a Netflix plan bundled with their VIP+ subscription, daily and monthly vouchers for an extra 20% off, daily free shipping with no minimum spend, and SPayLater at 0% interest for 3 months.
Join ShopeeVIP+ and enjoy even more benefits in one subscription. For more information, visit https://shopee.ph/vip-plus. Download the Shopee app for free from the App Store or Google Play, and activate ShopeePay today.
DAVAO City will host IRONMAN 70.3, bringing in new ultimate challenges for athletes on June 13, 2027.
The city will kick off two long-course challenges in one race weekend for participants to choose.
IRONMAN Philippines’ race features a 3.8KM swim, 180KM bike, and 42.2KM run.
The 180KM bike course will go over three counterclockwise laps from the Coastal Road through MacArthur Highway and key city roads before going to Bago Esplanade.
The 42.2KM marathon will be a four-loop run, also on the Davao City Coastal Road between the Tulip Rotonda area and Bago Esplanade before reaching the finish line.
IRONMAN 70.3 will still offer the 1.9KM swim, 90KM bike, and 21.1KM run distances from its previous events.
During the media launch on Tuesday, Sept 8, Sunrise Events, Inc. general manager Princess Galura shared that Davao City was chosen as the venue for the upcoming IRONMAN since it has the required infrastructure and volume capacity to support the event.
She added that the city was selected for its safety and security, and the city government is experienced and more than capable.
“In terms of preparation, we will just enhance whatever we need to do, then extend what we need to cover since this will be a full-distance,” City Sports Development Division head Mikey Aportadera said.
Aportadera also said the race has a big contribution to tourism economics aside from showcasing Davao for its uniqueness and diversity.
IRONMAN Philippines Davao City and IRONMAN 70.3 Davao registration opens on Sept 8. Additional information, race details, and event updates are available at the official IRONMAN websites.
