BY ALEX ALAGON
LEADING HMO in the country, Intellicare, continues to demonstrate its commitment to healthcare management and sustainable growth, emerging as the No. 1 Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) in the Philippines with P503M net income, based on the Insurance Commission (IC)’s 2025 Second Quarter report.
Assessing the performance of 28 licensed HMOs nationwide, the report reveals that Intellicare has shown great strength across key performance indicators, including financial discipline, claims efficiency, and optimized healthcare delivery.
The firm also disbursed one of the highest health benefits and claims during the same quarter, amounting to P9 billion, demonstrating Intellicare’s strong commitment to providing timely support for its members.
This growth builds on Intellicare’s strong performance in the first quarter of 2025, contributing significantly to the HMO industry’s overall recovery compared to the same period in 2024. Currently, Intellicare’s solid financial position is reflected in its total assets, which stand at ₱17.3 billion with an asset-to-liability ratio of 1.13x.
Its sister company, Avega Managed Care, Inc., likewise reported a positive net income for the same period, contributing to a 45% combined share of industry net income for the Asalus Corporation (Intellicare) and its affiliates.
“As we prepare to mark 30 years, Intellicare remains committed to integrity and sustainability in every aspect of our operations. Our continued leadership in financial performance allows us to deliver high-quality healthcare to employees and their families, ensuring that healthcare access remains a cornerstone of Filipino families’ security and well-being,” said Jeremy Matti, President of Intellicare.
With a capital stock of one billion pesos, Intellicare consistently operates on sound actuarial principles, fair pricing, and a patient outcome-based model, enabling the HMO provider to maintain long-term viability while expanding access to healthcare services for members.
Democratizing healthcare has also been at its core, with its continued strategic partnerships and linkages that add value to its robust operations.
Intellicare’s quality and holistic healthcare has covered over 1.2 million members, with more than 69,000 affiliated doctors and specialists nationwide. It also continues to embrace innovation and digital transformation amid the evolving industry landscape by making healthcare services more accessible through its AGORA app and automated processes, among others. To know more about Intellicare, visit their website at intellicare.com.ph, or their social media accounts, @Intellicare on Facebook or @IntellicarePH on Instagram, and linkedin.com/company/intellicare-ph on LinkedIn.
When choosing where to live, three essentials always top the list: accessibility, electricity, and water. In Emily Homes, Cabantian, all three are now within reach- and it is changing the community’s overall livability.
With the Davao City Water District (DCWD) expanding its distribution system through the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP), the water supply in Emily Homes has significantly improved and has made the area more livable and attractive to homebuyers.
Just a few years ago, that seemed unlikely. In 2022, areas like Cabantian faced frequent water interruptions. Although 90% of Cabantian residents had 24/7 service, many still experienced inconsistent supply- some families stored water in baldes or basins, waiting for water truck deliveries, adjusting their routines around unpredictable schedules.
Recent figures show that the situation has dramatically improved. DCWD now provides continuous water service to 95% of its customers, resulting in record-high satisfaction levels of 99.6% in Cabantian which previously had intermittent service.
For Engr. Jose Cadjatan, long-time president of the Emily Homes Homeowners Association, the project addressed a crucial gap that had long affected the community.
“Number one requirement gyud kung mupuyo ka sa isa ka lugar ang accessibility sa kalsada going to downtown then electricity and water. Kanang tulo pirmi. The absence ug isa ra anang tulo kay mawad-an gyud sila’g gana (The number one requirement when you live in a place is accessibility to the road going downtown, then electricity and water- those three always matter. If even one of those is missing, people really lose interest),” he said.
Cadjatan added that residents are now satisfied with the improved water service, “Sa karon, ang feedback na gyud sa mga resident kay gwapo daw among source sa tubig. Tugnaw naman kaayo nya ang supply, enough na gyud siya. Wala na mi nakaproblema sa tubig– supisyente na sa among requirements (Now, residents are saying the water source is really good. The supply is cold, strong, and enough for our daily needs. We no longer have problems with water- it’s sufficient for the community).”
This improved reliability has not just made daily life easier, it has also boosted property values. Real estate agent and Emily Homes resident Flora Mae Casa also shared a similar experience. For her, the improved water supply has made a tangible difference not only in daily living but also in her work.
“Happy din and nakakatulong nang malaki sa akin especially sa mga house rentals ko (I’m really happy because the improvement in our water supply has helped me a lot, especially with my house rentals),” she said.
“Most of the time, yung mga clients ko is tinatanong na, “How was the water?,” “Okay na ba ang supply dito? Ang quality?” Yun ang sinasagot ko is, “Yes, clear na talaga ang water,” and then tinetest ko din sa kanila- malamig, clear and strong ang supply na po. Isa ang water talaga sa mga concern ng most of the clients (Most of my clients usually ask, ‘How’s the water? Is the supply okay now? How’s the quality?’ I can confidently tell them, ‘The water now is very clear.’ I even show them- the supply is cold, clear, and strong. Water is really one of the top concerns for most clients).” Casa added.
Discussions in online communities among Dabawenyo prospective buyers and residents also reflect this sentiment. Many note that water supply in Emily Homes has ‘greatly improved compared to before’ with strong pressure and 24/7 availability. This positive feedback, echoed through client inquiries and social media chatter, highlights growing interest in Emily Homes and the subdivision’s rising appeal and property value.
The Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project- a partnership between Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. and the Davao City Water District is the biggest private bulk water facility in the Philippines. It currently serves more than one million Dabawenyos with 300 million liters of safe, reliable water every day.
For the residents of Emily Homes, what was once a daily challenge has become a source of pride- proof that reliable water access is key to a more livable and resilient Davao.
MANILA, Philippines — In a landmark event held at the prestigious Manila Hotel, Davao-based legal practitioner Atty. Earl D. F. Larroder was honored with the first-ever LEAP Award (Leaders Excelling in Alternative Dispute and Peace Building), recognizing his exemplary contributions to the field of alternative dispute resolution (ADR).
The LEAP Awards, launched this year by the Office for Alternative Dispute Resolution (OADR) of the Department of Justice, in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Manila and the Philippine Institute of Arbitrators, aim to spotlight individuals who have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and integrity in the practice of dispute resolution and peacebuilding across the Philippines.
Atty. Larroder received the award under the category “Negotiating a Settlement Agreement”, a criterion that highlights professionals who have successfully facilitated amicable resolutions in high-stakes or complex disputes.
According to the selection committee, Atty. Larroder’s outstanding ability to guide disputing parties toward a voluntary, fair, and durable settlement set a new standard for negotiation practice in the country.
“This recognition reflects not just my personal efforts but the collaborative spirit of ADR practitioners who believe in peaceful, non-litigious solutions to conflict,” said Atty. Larroder in his acceptance speech. “It’s an honor to be part of this movement and to represent Davao and Mindanao in national conversations on peacebuilding and justice.”
The awarding ceremony gathered leading figures in the legal and peacebuilding communities, including representatives from the DOJ, senior mediators and arbitrators and civil society leaders.
The LEAP Awards are expected to be held annually, providing a platform to recognize pioneers and emerging leaders in the ADR field. With his win, Atty. Larroder sets a strong precedent for future honorees.
GOVERNMENT agencies in the Davao Region come together for the annual Inter-Agency Sportsfest 2025 on Oct 17, 2025, at the Davao City-UP Sports Complex, Mintal, Davao City.
Among the participating agencies are the Department of Science and Technology XI, University of the Philippines Mindanao, Department of Labor and Employment XI, Philippine Science High School Southern Mindanao Campus (PSHS-SMC), Department of Environment and Natural Resources XI, Department of Agriculture XI, and Commission on Audit XI.
Now in its third year, the sports event aims to foster a sense of community, prioritize employee well-being, and solidify partnerships among government agencies in the region. Over 800 participants participated in various sports events, including men’s and women’s basketball, volleyball, badminton, pickleball, futsal, larong pinoy, and e-sports like Mobile Legends.
Agency officials expressed their enthusiasm for the event and its goals, highlighting the value of work-life balance and the positive effects of sports on staff morale and productivity.
DOST XI regional director Anthony C. Sales, PFT, CESO III emphasized unity and integrity in public service, saying, “Together we show that when government agencies move as one, we build stronger institutions and deliver better service to our communities. Public Servants in Action, Celebrating Strength, Skill and Sportsmanship, reminds us that discipline, teamwork and integrity, define us both in public service in all the playing fields.”
Echoing the same spirit, DOLE XI regional director Atty. Randolf C. Pensoy underscored the connection between sportsmanship and workplace well-being:
“Teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship… these align for DOLE’s steadfast campaign for healthy workplaces as part of each mandate to ensure not only safety but help promote the work environment,” he said.
Meanwhile, DENR XI regional executive director Atty. Ma. Mercedes V. Dumagan highlighted the event’s deeper purpose of fostering unity among agencies: “More than just a competition it is a powerful opportunity for us to strengthen the bonds of unity, teamwork and camaraderie among the different agencies of the Davao Region. We are gathered in this event to put aside our usual roles and titles and to come together as one team united in the pursuit of healthy, friendly competition, and mutual respect.”
This year’s Inter-Agency Sportsfest saw a remarkable increase in participation compared to the previous year, with COA XI, DENR XI, and COA XI joining the event.
Participants expressed their joy and appreciation for the opportunity to take part in the activity, emphasizing how it allowed them to unwind, connect, and strengthen relationships with fellow government employees from other agencies.
“The memorable experience is not actually competing and winning but the camaraderie within the UP Campus… just forgetting about work for at least a day is totally worth it and meeting, of course, fellow public servants,” said Franklin Buenaflor of DENR XI.
“I really appreciated how our team worked even though hindi kami masyadong close ng mga participants kasi we rarely interact at school because of hectic schedules… but I’m happy and amazed with the teamwork that we built today,” said Kim Rendon from PSHS-SMC.
Their reflections captured the essence of the Sportsfest, a celebration not just of athleticism, but of teamwork, and shared purpose among public servants across the Davao Region.
For the third InterAgency SportsFest, first-time participant Department of Environment and Natural Resources emerged as the overall champion, securing 1145 points. The University of the Philippines Mindanao followed closely with 900 points, while the Commission on Audit claimed the third spot with 860 points.
UP Mindanao Chancellor Lyre Anni E. Murao expressed her appreciation for the spirit of unity and sportsmanship that the event fostered, saying, “This Sportsfest isn’t just about showcasing athletic talent. It’s about celebrating teamwork, respect, and resilience. Every game we play, whether on the court, in the field, or through other creative challenges, reflects the same values that guide our work in public service: integrity, cooperation, and dedication. Behind every pass, every rally, every cheer, there’s a simple truth: we achieve more when we work together. Progress requires trust, coordination, and that willingness to function as one team.”
As the program drew to a close, Chancellor Murao formally turned over the hosting of the next Inter-Agency Sportsfest to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), marking the start of another chapter in this continuing tradition of collaboration and goodwill among government agencies.
UNIONBANK of the Philippines was named Runner-Up in the Diversity & Inclusion Category at the Investors in People (IiP) Philippines Awards 2025, held on Sept. 19, 2025, in Makati City. This marks the bank’s first recognition at the IiP Awards, highlighting its strong commitment to creating an inclusive and empowering workplace.
The award reflects UnionBank’s people-first approach, which values diversity across age, gender, ability, and background. Through inclusive policies and leadership representation, the bank fosters a culture where employees can thrive and contribute meaningfully.
“We believe our differences are our strength. By crafting policies and programs that reflect the real-life experiences of our people, we build not only a more inclusive workplace—but a more innovative one,” said Michelle Rubio, UnionBank’s chief human resource officer.
She emphasized the strategic impact of the Bank’s flagship DEI initiative, UMatter, which is rooted in the belief that inclusive environments drive stronger innovation, engagement, and performance. “UMatter isn’t about compliance—it’s about care.”
“This award from Investors in People affirms what we’ve always believed, that a culture of inclusion doesn’t just feel right; it performs,” added Rubio. “We’re honored by the recognition, but even more inspired to keep pushing forward for our people, our partners, and the communities we serve.”
The IiP Awards celebrate organizations that demonstrate best-in-class people management practices, placing a spotlight on companies that champion the growth, wellbeing, and development of their employees. For UnionBank, their latest accolade is not just a win, but a reminder: when people matter, performance follows.
MANILA, Philippines – Many of today’s MSMEs are born from a passion: a recipe that’s been passed down for generations, a love of coffee and pastries, or a vision to showcase local fashion and design to the global stage. But turning that passion into a sustainable business is another thing on its own. Day-to-day challenges like managing orders and keeping payments on track can be overwhelming.
As businesses grow, so does the need for better tools. While there’s no shortage of tech in the market, many MSMEs often steer away due to cost and complexity. However, when presented with the opportunity to use solutions from GCash for Business, more business owners are discovering the advantages of adopting new tech innovations — especially when it comes to payments.
One innovation is GCash SoundPay. This device provides instant voice confirmation for every successful QR payment made. It’s easy to carry, affordable, and simple to use – requiring only a fully verified GCash account of at least 12 months to get started.
For Nikko Mendoza of Smthn Smthn Cafe in Davao, Michael Chan of Mom Rose Chicken Lechon in Bacolod, and Emgee Po of Get Spotted in Bacolod, embracing digital tools has helped them grow their brands while allowing them to enter a new era of ease.
Here’s what they’ve learned:
1. Faster checkouts make everyday transactions feel hassle-free – Michael Chan, Mom Rose Chicken Lechon
Mom Rose Chicken Lechon was born from both necessity and memory. When the pandemic shut down their carinderia in 2021, the Chan family shifted to making their signature Spicy Chicken Lechon, a dish inspired by their late mother, Rosemarie.
To this day, the business honors her wish for “a happy family,” and GCash SoundPay helps them keep that promise by ensuring this joy extends to their customers by making everyday payments stress-free.
“Most of our customers prefer GCash now. With GCash SoundPay, payments are faster and more reliable, so we can focus on serving food that makes people happy,” Michael shares.
In store, each team member carries their own GCash SoundPay device, worn with a lanyard and ready to use. This allows them to accept and confirm payments anytime, anywhere. No need for long waiting lines and just one payment acceptance device at the counter. Because of the real-time audio alerts, transactions move quicker, and the team can focus fully on serving their customers more efficiently.
2. Tech is a driver of growth. – Emgee Po, EMGEE by Get Spotted
A thesis project in 2011, EMGEE by Get Spotted is a local fashion brand from Bacolod that is now making waves internationally. Its founder, Emgee Po, partners with Negros weavers and Angono seamstresses to create one-off designs that are proudly Filipino. From a mall location in Ayala Malls Capitol Central to pop-ups in Paris and soon New York, EMGEE continues to expand its reach.
GCash played a role in how Emgee connected with customers. She first used her personal GCash account for payments, where cashless transactions made it easier to keep up with multiple customers paying at the same time.
“Most [of] our sales for the shop would be [through] credit cards and GCash. It’s very easy and it’s very convenient [to go cashless],” Emgee shares. But as the business grew, the confusion of mixing personal and business transactions and manually checking her phones to confirm payments started becoming a challenge.
That’s why she moved to GCash for Business. With GCash for Business, she now has everything to confidently grow her business such as an easy-to-use business wallet, no limits, no transaction fees. Now, there’s no more mixing personal and business payments.
3. Businesses benefit from an easy-to-use platform – Nikko Mendoza, Smthn Smthn Cafe
What started as seasonal pastries grew into a full-fledged garden café in 2024. Since day one, Smthn Smthn Cafe in Davao has accepted GCash payments to serve its customers better. But as the café expanded, owner Nikko Mendoza realized he needed more than just a way to receive payments.
With the new GCash for Business Portal, businesses get access to an easy-to-use platform to track and manage all online transactions in one place. It includes a simple, , easy-to-use payments tracker and management system, no wallet limit when receiving cashless payments from customers, and no transaction fees when paying suppliers through GCash. Additionally, the portal allows merchants to pay their suppliers directly through bank transfer or even to their GCash accounts with no fees, reducing the need to use multiple platforms and pay multiple fees.
For Nikko and his team, utilizing a system like the GCash for Business Portal means more time to focus on running the café, and less time worrying about payment limits, fees, or keeping track of scattered transactions.
Tech Made for Business’ Easy Era
From Manila to Bacolod to Davao, these small business owners show how digital solutions are helping them experience ease everyday in their operations. With GCash SoundPay and an upcoming new device that enables merchants to accept credit card payments through their phone, GCash for Business continues to provide MSMEs a selection of tools tailored to their specific needs per industry.
Utilizing these solutions also comes with a dedicated business account in the new GCash for Business Portal, providing a dedicated dashboard where business owners can order devices and manage their business transactions in a simple, easy-to-use business portal with no limits and no fees.
Learn more about how GCash for Business can empower your business and sign up today with just a GCash verified account of at least 12 months.
MANILA, Philippines – Internet search (67%), Facebook (65%), and television (62%) continue to be the most-used platforms among Filipino registered voters. These are followed by word-of-mouth (30%), newsprint (25%), AM radio (24%), and X (formerly Twitter) (21%).
Daily news access is now largely driven by social media, cited by 58% of respondents as their primary source of information. Meanwhile, television (43%) and streaming platforms (40%) remain integral to voters’ daily media consumption habits.
News outlets record stable trust ratings, but distrust is rising
GMA-7 remains the most trusted news outlet with a steady 45% trust rating, followed by ABS-CBN Online (40%) and the Philippine Daily Inquirer (37%, down from 41%).
DZMM (formerly DWPM Radyo 630) continues to gain traction, marking its second consecutive quarter of improvement in trust ratings (31%, up from 25%) as more listeners become aware of the station.
Despite stable trust ratings overall, several news organizations experience increases in distrust levels this quarter. These include TV5/Interaksyon (22% distrust, from 17%), PTV4 (26%, from 21%), NET 25 (25%, from 20%), Eagle News (22%, from 19%), UNTV (22%, from 18%), Philippine STAR (20%, from 16%), Manila Times (22%, from 18%), BusinessWorld (20%, from 16%), BusinessMirror (22%, from 16%), SunStar Philippines (22%, from 18%), and Abante (29%, from 26%).
Similarly, radio news outlets register rising distrust despite steady trust levels: DZRH (19% distrust, from 14%), DZBB (19%, from 15%), Radyo Pilipinas (20%, from 16%), and Bombo Radyo (20%, from 16%).
SMNI (33% distrust, from 28%) and Rappler (34%, from 32%) remain the most distrusted news outlets among Filipino voters this quarter.
Photo by Austin Distel on Unsplash
Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank) has once again been recognized as the Strongest Bank in the Philippines for 2025 by The Asian Banker (TAB), reaffirming its industry leadership for the fifth consecutive year. The annual ranking evaluates the world’s 1,000 largest and strongest banks based on their financial performance for the 2025 fiscal year.
According to The Asian Banker, Metrobank deserved the award because of its “robust balance sheet, high asset quality, solid capital base, and strong liquidity, hallmarks of sound management and resilience amid changing market conditions.”
The publication also cited Metrobank’s “extensive branch and digital network, and enduring corporate and institutional partnerships to sustain its growth momentum” as major factors in its strength.
“These strengths symbolize Metrobank’s steadfast commitment to balanced expansion, prudent risk management, and operational excellence, securing its recognition as the Strongest Bank in the Philippines for 2025,” the Asian Banker said.
“This recognition reflects the strength of the relationships we have built with our clients, communities, and partners– relationships that continue to fuel our growth and resilience as a financial institution,” said Metrobank President Fabian Dee.
” Complementing this is the unwavering dedication and hard work of Metrobankers to assure that our valued stakeholders remain in good hands. We are deeply honored for this recognition and we commit to continue to deliver meaningful financial services that help Filipinos and the country progress,” he added.
The Strongest Bank Rankings by TAB is an annual assessment of financial institutions and their business performance in the banking industry. Assessments for a bank’s performance are based on a detailed scorecard established by six criteria of balance sheet performance; namely the ability to scale, balance sheet growth, risk profile, profitability, asset quality and liquidity, covered by 14 specific factors.
Metrobank booked a net income of PHP 24.8 billion in the first half of the year. Its asset quality improved with non-performing loans ratio easing back to 1.5% of total loans from 1.7% in the same period last year, which is still much lower than the industry’s reported 3.5% NPL ratio as of May 2025. The Bank’s NPL cover remained high at 153.9%, giving it a strong buffer against any emerging risks. Total consolidated assets expanded by 6.0% to PHP3.5 trillion, allowing the Bank to maintain its position as the second largest bank in asset terms among the private universal banks. Total equity stood at PHP 390.7 billion. Metrobank’s balance sheet remains strong with Capital Adequacy Ratio at 16.3% and Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio at 15.6%, all well above the minimum regulatory requirements.
Earlier this year, Metrobank’s solid performance has been recognized by the Asian Banker, naming it as the Best Managed Bank in the Philippines and recognizing its President Fabian Dee as the Best CEO in the Philippines. Metrobank was also awarded by Euromoney as the Philippines’ Best Bank for Large Corporates and the Best Bank for Corporate Responsibility. It was also recognized by the Philippine Dealing System (PDS) Group for its strong performance and contribution to the Philippine capital markets in 2024, winning the Cesar E.A. Virata Award – Best Securities House for the 10th year. Metrobank was also named as the Top Corporate Securities Market Maker and the Top Fixed-Income Dealing Participant, among others.
BY ALEX ALAGON
