Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) recently awarded a Creta GLS IVT to a service customer last May 30, 2025. This was part of a Service Raffle Promo where Hyundai owners get a chance to win a brand-new Creta, if they bring in their vehicles to any certified Hyundai Service Center for Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) and General Repair Services from February 15 to April 30, 2025.
The lucky winner is Katheryn Ross B. Dela Fuente, who had her Stargazer X serviced at Hyundai E. Rodriguez. According to Dela Fuente, the Stargazer X was a top choice for her and her family due to its spacious interior, driving comfort, and fuel-efficiency. “Vehicle ownership is very convenient since my service advisor has been consistent in attending to my servicing needs and appointment requests,” she adds.
“It is our pleasure to give back to our loyal customers through this Hyundai Win-a-Creta Service Raffle Promo,” says HMPH managing director Cecil Capacete. “We at HMPH always believe that our mission goes beyond offering our customers our extensive line-up of vehicles. To a greater extent, we always strive to make the Hyundai car ownership experience a meaningful and memorable one for our customers. We are very happy to award this brand-new Hyundai CRETA to Ms. Dela Fuente, and we hope that this encourages our customers to keep coming back to our Service Centers for top-quality service and personalized care.”
vivo, a leading global smartphone brand, is proud to announce a meaningful new initiative just in time for Father’s Day. From June 13 to June 15, all participating vivo stores nationwide will host a consumer-centered celebration where they will describe their father.
This campaign reflects vivo’s core belief that beyond innovation and technology, the brand has a responsibility to bring people closer and spark real, emotional connections.
With every purchase of a vivo smartphone during the campaign period, customers will receive a free, personalized Father’s Day certificate and photo memento, thoughtfully designed and printed on-site, creating a moment of appreciation that goes far beyond the typical retail experience.
“Our goal is to connect with consumers emotionally, not just commercially,” said Ms. Lulu Liu, Brand Marketing Director of vivo Philippines. “Father’s Day is about honoring the heroes in our homes, and we want to make sure each dad feels seen, appreciated, and celebrated.”
An Immersive In-Store Experience
Unlike conventional promotions, vivo’s Father’s Day campaign offers a heartfelt interaction for families. The process is simple but impactful:
Customers can purchase any vivo smartphone from June 13 to 15 at participating stores.
They receive a personalized certificate, which includes a space to write a special adjective (e.g., “strongest,” “wisest,” “funniest”) and their dad’s name.
A portrait photo is taken on-site, printed instantly, and affixed to the certificate.
Families can then pose with their dads, holding the certificate in a dedicated photo corner inside the store.
The experience concludes with a memorable keepsake that customers can take home — a physical reminder of the celebration.
This initiative allows each participant to reflect on their father’s qualities and express their gratitude in a tangible, creative way. Whether it’s a biological father, grandfather, stepfather, or a father figure, every dad can be recognized in a personal, touching manner.
As a bonus, customers who post their Father’s Day moment on social media with hashtags #AwardMyDadwithvivo and #vivoDadinStyle, and tag @vivo_philippines, will receive exclusive giveaways.
Give dad more than a gift this Father’s Day
vivo’s Father’s Day campaign is a testament to vivo’s dedication to creating not only best-in-class smartphones but also memorable moments for Filipino families. By transforming a routine purchase into a moment of bonding and gratitude, vivo elevates the retail experience into something deeply personal.
As Father’s Day approaches, vivo encourages everyone to take part in this limited-time offer and show appreciation for the father figures who have shaped their lives.
For more information about this campaign and other upcoming events, visit vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or check out the official website.
Security Bank has launched its #YouMatter video series, featuring real stories from employees that reflect a workplace where people are empowered, valued, and proud to grow their careers. The series reinforces the Bank’s commitment to building a culture where people matter, fostering a culture that drives the renowned BetterBanking service.
“At SBC, we make sure every employee feels seen, heard, and supported—that’s the core of #YouMatter,” said Nerissa Berba, chief people officer at Security Bank.
Empowered to grow
From fresh graduates to career shifters, Security Bank empowers people to grow from day one.
Customer service officer Jaezelle Romero found her first job at the Bank. “They saw something in me others didn’t. A decade later, I’m still here,” she said.
Process manager JP De Guzman, who came from a non-banking background, echoed the sentiment. “They gave me the tools, training, and trust to grow. I’ve achieved more than I ever expected.”
Recognized and rewarded
For the Bank, recognition is more than a gesture—it’s a driver of growth. Eastwood Branch business manager Cesar Bersamina shared how consistent recognition propelled his career. “With every milestone, the Bank rewarded my efforts—with promotions, benefits, and international exposure.”
Supported especially when it matters the most
Security Bank doesn’t just show up in good times—it also stands by its people during life’s hardest moments.
Head of training and engagement for retail credit operations Cherry Sabado recounted how the Bank supported her after a house fire. “They didn’t just say they cared—they proved it. That kind of support stays with you.”
Given the flexibility that matters.
The Bank likewise understands that flexibility is more than convenience—it’s about life.
HR business partner Frances Trinidad shared how the Bank’s hybrid work setup gave her precious time with her aging dog, Hagrid. “It’s not just about work-life balance—it’s about the moments and memories we get to keep. And for that, I’ll always be grateful to Security Bank.”
Driven by a shared purpose
Beyond the workplace, Security Bank encourages employees to contribute to something bigger.
Operations specialist Shaina Bucton, shared how participating in Learn for a Cause helped her grow while giving back. “Every session I joined didn’t just benefit me—it helped support meaningful causes and communities. At Security Bank, we don’t just work—we share a purpose.”
Learn for a Cause is a Security Bank’s program in partnership with LinkedIn Learning, where each completed learning hour helps fund a child’s education through the Security Bank Foundation—turning personal growth into lasting impact.
These stories embody the heart of #YOUMatter—a culture that genuinely values its people. More than an internal initiative, it reflects the Bank’s strategic commitment to a people-first workplace, where growth, flexibility, and recognition empower employees to thrive both personally and professionally. Watch the episodes on Security Bank’s social media pages.
GrowthCon 2025 is happening on June 10, 2025, at Samsung Hall, SM Aura. This exclusive summit by The Business Manual, in partnership with SM Supermalls and its SM for MSMEs initiative, is set to ignite the future of entrepreneurship.
With the theme “Powering Up the Startup Ecosystem Through AI,” GrowthCon 2025 brings together founders, investors, and industry leaders for an afternoon of insights, networking, and a showcase of some of the country’s most promising startups.
What to expect:
Two AI-focused panel discussions.
The first-ever Startup Awards.
The Student Edition of our Startup Pitch Competition
Strategic networking with top minds in business
Ready to power up your venture? This is where the future unfolds.
The 2025 season of the Makabayan Endurance Race Challenge showcased not only the driving prowess of Team MSCC Mazda Miata Spec but also the engineering ingenuity that comes with building the best-performing vehicle for the racetrack.
The #55 Team MSCC Mazda Miata Spec continued its winning ways by dominating the 2025 Kagitingan Cup—the first leg of the three-round endurance challenge. This race car was intrinsically designed, mechanically modified, and driven under the supervision of Angie Mead King.
The team came out on top in both the 2-Hour and 4-Hour Race Challenge categories, breaking records in both laps completed and fastest laps. The race car, which continued to sport a stock 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine, completed 63 laps in the 2-Hour Race with the fastest lap time of 1 minute 49.8 seconds. Meanwhile, in the 4-Hour Race, it managed 120 laps with a fastest time of 1 minute 53.7 seconds.
Building and modifying a race car from scratch is no easy feat. However, because the MX-5 is a formidable racing platform—it is, after all, the world’s most raced car—it already had a solid foundation surrounding performance, reliability, and durability. That meant Angie focused on making it lighter and faster—something she worked tirelessly on over a three-year period.
“My inspiration for modifying the car for this year’s Endurance is just to be better. It’s to beat our records last year and make sure that every year, we are progressing to be a faster car, a faster team, a more efficient team,” Angie shares.
This year, the MSCC Miata Spec features an ultra-lightweight carbon fiber body kit, along with Brembo front brakes, Cusco coilovers and suspension parts, a HGT 6-speed sequential gearbox, a new rear-end differential, and performance tires. According to Angie, the body kit was one of the biggest improvements made on the car, while the new sequential gearbox contributed in boosting the speed up to 4.5 seconds over the previous lap time.
Behind the success, Angie recalls setbacks encountered during the prep stage, and even right up to race day. But true to Mazda’s “Never Stop Challenging Spirit” Angie and the rest of Team MSCC Miata Spec endured to create a race-winning car.
Angie recalls being both nervous and excited, even astounded, in her words, at having been able to achieve a lap time of 1 minute 47.969 seconds during qualifying, given that the team only had days to do a shakedown before the actual race.
“So far, the first two- and four-hour races were good benchmarks for us to stress test the car, and it seemed to do really well. A week after, Tyson (Sy) drove it on Clark, and he loves how the car’s set-up also,” Angie shares.
One of the things that spectators and fans don’t realize is that it takes a village to deliver an awe-inspiring performance on the track.
The MSCC Miata Endurance #55 is the product of a collaboration between King, Mazda Philippines, the MSCC Mazda Team Principals Windy Imperial and Steven Tan, Race Engineer Edgen Dy-Liacco, and the host of car shops and drivers Tyson Sy, Juha Turalba, and Milo Rivera, who contributed time and resources that went into the vehicle’s development. This includes Takahiro Kobayakawa, Mazda Japan’s Head of Motorsport, who shared his own input on what would be beneficial to the car.
“I definitely could not have done it alone. Without the team to support my ideas and obviously, crosscheck, the car would not be at this level of performance. Definitely, it is a team effort and that’s why I love endurance racing,” says Angie.
The MSCC Miata Spec is gearing up for the second leg of the 2025 Endurance Race. Having learned from the first race, Angie is confident that the car will perform even better the second time around, saying, “We have a few more modifications coming, just to fine tune the car before we start working on getting more speed.”
The following legs of the 2025 Makabayan Endurance Challenge will happen on June 14-15, 2025, and November 29-30, 2025, both at the Clark International Speedway.
Bermaz Auto Philippines, Inc. (Mazda Philippines) is the exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles and parts in the Philippines.
Brig. General William O. Segun, newly installed head of the Communications and Electronic Services (CES) of the Philippine National Police (PNP), is set to implement key improvements that will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the PNP’s 911 emergency response system during his term.
According to the former Deputy Commander of the PNP Area Police Command in Southern Luzon, the PNP and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) will work with a system provider to build a cutting-edge, fully integrated emergency communications network that will let the PNP provide timely and effective public safety services to the public nationwide.
“Public safety and quick response rank No. 1 in importance to the PNP, particularly for the CES. It is fundamental to our mandate, which is to maintain peace and order, protect life and property, and enforce the law,” General Segun said.
He pointed out key points that will revitalize the way the PNP responds to emergency calls using next-gen, state-of-the-art technology. According to BGen. Segun, next-gen technology will let the PNP integrate its communication systems with the national 911 emergency response platform that is equipped with an Emergency Location System (ELS) and has caller location mapping and data integration. The PNP, the DILG E911 Commission, the DICT, NTC, TELCO providers, Google Asia and the service provider can all share data to ensure seamless collaboration for faster response times.
Emergency respnse call takers and responders will have comprehensive training in emergency call handling, crisis intervention techniques, telephone etiquette, and first aid. Field officers will use real-time mobile communication tools, including body cameras, audio recording devices, and messaging apps to more efficiently communicate.
Segun shared that the incident monitoring system of the national police will be vastly improved by systems development that will add data fields for monitoring performance and challenges. The system will be able to generate and print pre-formatted reports for improved analysis and response strategy development. Prank calls will be filtered and routed to another channel because prank callers can now be easily identified by the system and penalized according to law.
The CES chief said a comprehensive public awareness campaign will also be launched to educate the public on the proper use of 911 emergency response services.
“The PNP CES must transform into a tech-savvy, data-driven, and highly connected force that embraces digital innovation. We are looking at Al-powered dispatch systems for optimized resource allocation, predictive policing tools to anticipate and prevent crime hotspots, and advanced data analytics to identify trends and improve response strategies. We will prioritize rapid and coordinated response, through improved inter-agency communication and real-time data sharing, and maintain strong public engagement through proactive community outreach programs. These are crucial to address the complex safety challenges of today and the future,” General Segun asserted.
“The 911 technology will enable the public to report accidents immediately, providing exact location and details of incidents. This ensures that PNP stations and units are dispatched promptly and accurately based on the data from the 911 call-takers and dispatchers. For example, in a vehicular accident with medical emergency, ambulances are dispatched simultaneously with the call. This inter-agency coordination minimizes delays and maximizes efficiency.”
The 911 hotline is the official and centralized emergency response number for police, fire, medical, and other emergency services nationwide. It operates 24/7 and is free and accessible to all.
Synology announces DP7200, the newest addition to its ActiveProtect data protection lineup for organizations looking to protect diverse workloads, including servers, virtual machines, databases, and Microsoft 365 data across multiple office locations, remote offices, or branch offices.
“With ActiveProtect, our vision is to create a unified solution by integrating both hardware and software capabilities for businesses of all sizes looking to streamline data protection,” explained Jia-Yu Liu, executive vice president at Synology. “As businesses scale across multiple locations, data tends to be fragmented and scattered across regions, making DP7200 the ideal solution for deployment at the main office, remote office, or as a new addition for data centers.”
As part of the ActiveProtect data protection lineup, the DP7200 serves as a core management server or standalone backup appliance that comes with a built-in operating system called ActiveProtect Manager. With an 84 TB capacity, DP7200’s key features include:
Data visibility: Consolidate and view up to 150,000 workloads and monitor 2,500 sites via a single pane of glass, including all backups, backup copies, and archived data across your backup infrastructure.
Secure your data against the threat of ransomware: Protect against unforeseen disasters such as ransomware attacks with access controls, immutability, and data isolation. Prevent unauthorized personnel from accessing your data by setting up MFA via Active Directory, LDAP, and SAML 2.0. Preserve clean copies of your data so that an untainted copy is always available for recovery.
Long-term data retention is no longer a challenge: DP7200 enables long-term backup storage both on-premises and in the cloud, maximizing efficiency without occupying excess space through data deduplication, ensuring compliance and business continuity.
DP7200 is available globally via Synology’s distributor and partner network. For more information, visit https://sy .to/ap
Globe is making travel connectivity even more convenient for inbound tourists with the introduction of the Globe Traveler eSIM at airport booths, bundled with a free foodpanda voucher.
All Globe Prepaid Traveler SIM packages are now available in eSIM versions for an additional PHP99, allowing visitors to activate their mobile service instantly without needing to swap physical SIM cards.
This flexibility ensures that travelers, whether budget-conscious or seeking premium options, can find a package that suits their needs and preferences.
Available 5G eSIM packages at airport booths include Globe Traveler eSIM with 20GB, 30GB, 80GB, and 120GB. Tourists who prefer to secure their connectivity before arrival can also purchase a Traveler eSIM via the GlobeOne app.
Beyond offering seamless mobile access, Globe differentiates its Prepaid Traveler offers with added travel-related perks and privileges.
All Globe Prepaid Traveler SIMs come with a complimentary foodpanda voucher, offering a 50% discount on food transactions. This added perk allows tourists to conveniently enjoy local flavors while staying connected.
“We make staying connected effortless for travelers so they can focus on discovering the best of the Philippines without worrying about mobile access. As a trusted travel partner in mobile connectivity, Globe ensures that visitors can seamlessly stay online from the moment they arrive while providing lifestyle perks to enhance their journey,” said Givielle Florida, head of Globe Prepaid.
With this expansion, Globe strengthens its position as the most reliable mobile network partner for inbound travelers. Globe encourages tourists to visit its airport booths or download the GlobeOne app to purchase their Traveler eSIM and enjoy exclusive travel perks.
VinFast Philippines has officially joined the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI), marking a key step in its efforts to strengthen its presence in the local automotive industry.
Founded in 1995, the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) has been instrumental in championing the interests of the automotive sector, making significant contributions to the nation’s economic growth. As of May 2025, the association accounts for more than 92 percent of Philippine auto sales.
Committed to developing a viable and self-sustaining local industry, CAMPI works closely with the government and key stakeholders to shape policies, regulations, and standards that drive economic growth. Through its efforts, CAMPI promotes investment, job creation, skills development, technology transfer, environmental protection, and road safety across the sector.
As a member of CAMPI, VinFast will work alongside other leading automotive players to help shape policies, programs, and industry standards that support innovation and sustainable growth.
VinFast PH CEO Doan Thi Mai Anh shared: “We are proud to announce that VinFast is now an official member of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI), the country’s leading automotive industry association. This milestone marks a significant step forward in our commitment to shaping the future of mobility in the Philippines through clean, smart, and sustainable transportation. As a CAMPI member, VinFast will actively collaborate with industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to support innovation, infrastructure, and responsible vehicle manufacturing and distribution across the nation. Joining CAMPI strengthens our mission to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles and contribute to the long-term growth and sustainability of the Philippine automotive sector.”
Meanwhile, CAMPI president Atty. Rommel Gutierrez, noted: “We are honored to extend a warm welcome to VinFast – Vietnam’s pioneering electric vehicle manufacturer – as one of the newest members of CAMPI. VinFast’s entry as a pure electric mobility brand marks a significant milestone poised to inject renewed momentum into the Philippine automotive industry. By introducing innovative, environmentally sustainable, and accessible transportation solutions, VinFast is expected to play a vital role in advancing the country’s journey toward a greener and more sustainable future.”
After a year since its market entry in the Philippines, VinFast has steadily expanded its presence with its portfolio of smart EV models, attractive sales offerings, and a continuously refined after-sales support system.
With strong backing from Vingroup, Vietnam’s leading conglomerate, and the strategic determination of chairman Pham Nhat Vuong, VinFast is actively pursuing the development of a comprehensive “For a Green Future” ecosystem across Southeast Asia, placing strong emphasis on the collaborative growth of charging infrastructure and service networks. This framework, established successfully in Vietnam, is now being extended to promising markets such as the Philippines.
With a diverse portfolio that includes the VF 3, VF 5, VF 6, VF 7, and VF 9, VinFast offers a broad range of sustainable mobility solutions. The VinFast VF 6, in particular, is poised to be a key driver for EV adoption in the Philippines, building on its strong performance in Vietnam and favorable reception in European markets. It presents an enticing and affordable option for Filipino consumers eager to embrace eco-friendly transportation
Ford Philippines reinforces its commitment to an enhanced ownership experience with the opening of Ford Mandaue, a dealership service facility, in partnership with Fairlane Automotive Ventures, Inc. (FAVI), the operator of Ford dealerships in the Visayas region.
Located at North Road in Barangay Jagobiao, Mandaue, Ford Mandaue is set to elevate the Ford ownership experience with a new and bigger facility for various service and aftersales transactions of its customers. The opening of Ford Mandaue represents a significant investment in the region and a testament to the growing demand for Ford vehicles and services in Cebu and in the Visayas region.
Largest Ford service facility in Visayas
With a service floor area spanning 12,000 square meters, Ford Mandaue houses over 20 service bays and over 30 body and paint bays, making it the largest Ford service facility in the Visayas region. This expands Ford’s capability to provide comprehensive vehicle maintenance and repair services to its growing customer base in the northern part of Cebu City. The facility also has a 3-vehicle display area to cater to various sales and marketing activities for Ford vehicles.
“Ford Mandaue is a testament to our commitment to providing top-notch service and aftersales support, ensuring that every Ford owner enjoys a seamless ownership journey for many years,” said Pedro Simoes, managing director, Ford Philippines. “We thank our partners from FAVI for the continued partnership and collaboration to serve our customers.”
“We are thrilled to officially open Ford Mandaue and bring the Ford brand of ownership experience to more customers in Cebu,” said Andre Borromeo, general manager, FAVI. “With this expansive service facility, we look forward to creating and maintaining lasting relationships with our current and future customers as we continue to make aftersales a top priority for our business.”
Exclusive promotions at Ford Mandaue
As an exclusive promotion to celebrate the opening, Ford Philippines and Ford Mandaue are offering the first fifty (50) customers who will reserve and purchase a Ford vehicle from Ford Mandaue from June 5 to June 30, 2025, additional cash savings of up to PHP50,000.
The offer is applicable to new Ford customers who do not have any active reservation at Ford Cebu, Ford Talisay, or any Ford dealership. A minimum reservation fee of PHP10,000 is required for the Territory, Everest, and Ranger, while PHP30,000 is required for Mustang and Explorer.
Ford Mandaue is open from Monday to Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Customers can call 09214613613 or visit their Facebook account at www.facebook.com/OfficialFordMandaue for more information.
UnionDigital Bank (UD), the digital banking subsidiary of Union Bank of the Philippines, has officially launched the Kaya Mo Movement, designed to break barriers to financial inclusion and empower every Filipino to believe in their financial potential.
Rooted in empathy, scale, and sustainability, Kaya Mo is UD’s commitment to reimagining banking for the 37.6 million Filipino adults who remain unbanked. The movement aims to make digital banking intuitive, accessible, and empowering—especially for first-time users among sari-sari storeowners, ride-sharing drivers, daily wage earners, and informal workers.
The movement was launched during a recent event that brought together UD’s ecosystem partners, digital inclusion advocates, fintech leaders, and grassroots community representatives. Attendees heard compelling stories from microentrepreneurs whose experiences reflect the everyday financial challenges faced by underserved Filipinos, highlighting the real-world relevance of UD’s mission to deliver accessible credit, savings, and digital financial tools to those who need them most. The event also featured wealth coach Chinkee Tan, who led an interactive segment with the audience, using relatable scenarios to highlight the importance of budgeting, saving, and smart borrowing, reinforcing how financial education is key to long-term empowerment for the underserved communities.
Danilo “Bong” Mojica II, PhD, President & CEO of UnionDigital Bank, unveils the Kaya Mo Movement, highlighting UD’s commitment to inclusive digital banking and uplifting underserved communities.
“At UD, financial inclusion isn’t just a mission—it’s the lens through which we grow and serve our communities,” said Danilo “Bong” Mojica II, PhD, president and CEO of UD. “We design technology around real people, helping every Filipino—regardless of income or background—access tools that empower them to take charge of their financial journey. Through the ‘Kaya Mo’ movement, we’re not just providing banking—we’re partnering with our customers and communities to help them start, recover, and thrive. Because when people are truly empowered, inclusion becomes transformation.”
Financial Products Designed for Real People
Enabling the Kaya Mo Movement is a growing suite of financial products designed to meet the real needs of underserved Filipinos. UD’s basic savings account, UD Save, promotes financial resilience with no minimum balance and zero maintenance fees, removing common barriers that often discourage first-time savers. Meanwhile, UD Time Deposit enables customers to start building long-term savings with as little as PHP1,000, making it the only digital bank in the country to offer this low-entry option. UD Loans, the bank’s existing credit offering, is currently made available through a microsite to select UnionBank payroll clients and pensioners. With flexible installment terms and use cases that cover essentials like healthcare, it remains a core product supporting customers’ everyday financial needs.
Soon, UD will further expand its offerings with UD Cash Loans, a simplified digital loan product set to be launched via the UD app. Designed for first-time borrowers, it aims to remove common barriers such as collateral and extensive documentation. The bank will also roll out a virtual card powered by VISA, allowing users to make secure and convenient online transactions without a physical card, broadening access to the digital economy. Additional features in development include early wage access, which will enable workers to tap into their salary ahead of payday, and microinsurance offerings to help users stay protected from unexpected life events. Together, these innovations are meant to give everyday Filipinos the confidence and tools to move forward financially.
Mike Magpily, chief marketing officer of UD, shared, “Kaya Mo is our promise to make financial inclusion real. We’re not just offering hope; we’re introducing products that help Filipinos take control of their money—from getting a loan when it matters, to saving for emergencies, to managing everyday expenses through a digital bank built for real life. It’s simple, accessible, and built around how Filipinos actually live, earn, and spend their money. Just to prove that kaya talaga ng Pilipino na umasenso.”
From Exclusion to Empowerment
A panel discussion featured voices from organizations that supported the movement, including mWell, the country’s first fully integrated digital health and wellness platform championing accessible healthcare for underserved communities, and Hapinoy, a social enterprise supporting thousands of microentrepreneurs nationwide.
Partners and changemakers affirm their commitment to empower underserved Filipinos through the UnionDigital Bank-powered Kaya Mo Movement. From L-R: Sid Bada, Head of Clients, VISA Philippines; Florencia Pacia, Commercial Lead and Consumer Head of mWell; Mike Magpily, Chief Marketing Officer, UnionDigital Bank; Danilo “Bong” Mojica II, PhD, President & CEO, UnionDigital Bank; Wealth Coach Chinkee Tan; Community Representatives Telly Moreño and Marjorie Sandoval; and Mark Joaquin Ruiz, Co-Founder & President, Hapinoy.
“Access to finance is one thing—but the gift of seeing a brighter future and having the agency to make it happen is what truly changes lives,” said Mark Joaquin Ruiz, co-founder and president of Hapinoy. “We’ve seen this firsthand through our work with sari-sari store owners—some of the hardest-working, most resilient Filipinos you’ll ever meet. With UD’s support, many of them are now shifting from day-to-day survival to longer-term financial planning. That’s the kind of transformation we believe in. When technology and empathy come together, communities don’t just survive—they thrive.”
UD’s use of alternative data enables us to extend credit to customers without traditional financial histories, who are often excluded from the formal financial system. By continuously refining its credit models, they’re able to responsibly serve more Filipinos while managing risk effectively.
Community representatives—TNVS driver Telly Moreño and sari-sari store owner Marjorie Sandoval—shared how access to digital banking can empower their livelihoods, bringing the promise of financial inclusivity to life through the Kaya Mo Movement.
The event culminated with UD representatives and partners coming together to express a unified commitment, symbolizing that the Kaya Mo Movement is about uplifting real people together, not just delivering products. “We’re not just refreshing how we look; we’re refreshing how we serve,” Mojica added. “We want to continue to be a true partner in every Filipino’s journey—from meeting daily needs to securing the future. With UD, Kaya Mo.”
Featuring a high-definition display, robust battery life, powerful performance, and running on the latest Xiaomi HyperOS 2, the Redmi Pad 2 4G delivers an immersive experience for everyday entertainment.
Vivid visuals and rich sound, built for everyday enjoyment
The Redmi Pad 2 4G features an expansive 11-inch 2.5K display, offering crystal-clear detail and vibrant colors for streaming, browsing, and casual gaming.
With a pixel density of 274ppi and a 90Hz AdaptiveSync refresh rate, visuals stay exceptionally smooth even during fast-moving scenes. Featuring DC dimming and TÜV Rheinland certifications for Low Blue Light (Software Solution), Flicker Free, and Circadian Friendly, the Redmi Pad 2 4G ensures all-day eye comfort. Complementing the display is a quad-speaker setup with Dolby Atmos® and Hi-Res Audio, delivering an immersive sound experience for music, movies, and games.
Seamless interaction with Xiaomi HyperOS 2
Powered by Xiaomi HyperOS 2, the Redmi Pad 2 4G provides a seamless connected experience that seamlessly integrates across Xiaomi phones and tablets.
With Xiaomi Interconnectivity features such as call sync, network sync, and shared clipboard,³ the tablet enables more intuitive workflows and greater flexibility across screens. Call sync allows incoming phone calls to be answered directly on the tablet, keeping you connected without needing to switch devices. When Wi-Fi is unavailable, network sync steps in, enabling quick access to your phone’s hotspot with a single tap. Meanwhile, the shared clipboard makes it easier to copy and paste text and images between your phone and tablet, as if you were working on the same device. Together, these features streamline daily workflows and enhance cross-device convenience.
Reliable performance and mobility with a sleek design
Equipped with the MediaTek Helio G100-Ultra processor, the Redmi Pad 2 4G delivers strong performance and an immersive experience for everyday entertainment.
A massive 9000mAh battery supports long viewing sessions and extended use with fewer charging breaks. For those who need connectivity on the go, the Redmi Pad 2 4G offers the same entertainment-focused experience, featuring dual-SIM and dual 4G support. From watching shows during commutes to enjoying music or videos in outdoor settings, the Redmi Pad 2 4G enables on-the-go access to content without relying on Wi-Fi. The Redmi Pad 2 4G also features a metal unibody design, offering users a sophisticated tactile experience.
The Redmi Pad 2 4G also supports key accessories that enhance its versatility for entertainment and creativity. The Redmi Smart Pen offers a 60Hz refresh rate and millisecond-level low latency — delivering precise input for writing, sketching, and note-taking. Requiring just 10 grams of activation force, it enables a natural, pen-on-paper experience. Meanwhile, the Redmi Pad 2 Cover adds 360° protection and supports smart wake and sleep functionality, while its adjustable stand ensures stable, hands-free viewing with added comfort.
Price and availability
The Redmi Pad 2 4G is available on the official Xiaomi store on Shopee and Lazada, as well as authorized Xiaomi stores nationwide in Graphite Gray, with two variants: 6GB+128GB (PHP10,499), and 8GB+256GB (PHP12,499). A free Redmi Smart Pen or Redmi Buds 6 Active is also available as a Shopee exclusive from June 5 to 18, 2025, along with PHP500 off with the special voucher code RMIPAD2. Enjoy immersive entertainment and get your own Redmi Pad 2 4G now!To learn more about the Redmi Pad 2 4G and other Xiaomi products, visit http://mi.com/ph.
Coursera, a leading online learning platform, has released its annual Global Skills Report, revealing a remarkable 383% year-over-year (YoY) increase in Generative AI (GenAI) enrollments in the Philippines, far outpacing the Asia Pacific average of 132% and the global average of 195%. The findings highlight the rapid adoption of emerging technologies by Filipino learners and the country’s increasing commitment to developing an AI-ready workforce.
Based on insights from Coursera’s global community of over 170 million learners, the report tracks emerging skill trends across more than 100 countries. Now in its seventh year, the 2025 edition ranks the Philippines 88th globally for overall skills proficiency and 18th in Asia Pacific. Filipino learners demonstrate 29% proficiency in business, 21% in technology, and 17% in data science. In Coursera’s newly-introduced AI Maturity Index, the country ranks 60th, indicating promising growth potential in AI research, innovation, and talent development.
This progress aligns with national efforts to upskill one million AI-skilled workers by 2028, as part of broader digitalization goals. 86% of Filipino knowledge workers already use AI at work, well above the global average of 75% and regional average of 83%. This trend is also echoed by learner behavior on Coursera, with a sharp rise in enrollments in courses that equip learners with skills that employers are prioritizing: AI and ML by 307%, Curiosity by 74%, Customer Service rose by 12% and Critical Thinking by 10%.
“The Philippines is laying the foundation for a digitally confident workforce. AI is a clear priority for employers, and learners are stepping up by acquiring GenAI skills and industry micro-credentials to stay ahead,” said Eklavya Bhave, head of Asia Pacific, Coursera. “From AI strategies to forward-thinking education policies, we’re seeing a strong national commitment to equipping Filipinos with the right mix of technical, business and human skills. Coursera is proud to support this transformation by partnering across education, industry, and government to build an inclusive, job-ready talent pipeline.”
Key findings for the Philippines:
Filipinos are embracing GenAI skills rapidly but participation gaps remain: GenAI enrollments jumped 383% YoY – one of the highest globally. Yet women make up only 37% of these learners, despite representing 51% of Coursera’s overall learner base in the country.
Demand for job-ready credentials continues to rise: Professional Certificate enrollments grew 23% YoY, highlighting strong learner interest in outcome-based programs.
Learners are building applied tech and digital marketing skills: Filipino learners are prioritizing practical skills in software development, IT infrastructure, and campaign management—signaling demand for roles at the intersection of technology, creativity, and operations.
With 2.7 million Coursera learners and a median age of 32, the Philippines has one of the region’s most digitally engaged populations and is poised to thrive in a fast-changing global economy. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, 96% of Filipino businesses want to upskill their workforce to work better alongside AI, well above the global average of 77%. However, an International Monetary Fund report says that 40% of jobs in the Philippines are significantly impacted by AI, with 14% of the workforce being at direct risk of displacement. Bridging the gap will require coordinated national efforts – including expanding public-private partnerships, integrating micro-credentials into higher education, and scaling online learning access. Increasing women’s participation in emerging technology fields will also be critical, not just to achieve gender equality, but to also unlock the full potential of the country’s digital economy.
When you go back to school, there is something as inevitable as death and taxes: spending time in the library. Libraries hold a lot of physical and digital media. For those who haven’t been to a library in a while, I recall searching for books via a card catalog (this was prevalent even in the late 1990s and early 2000s, when I was still in school), with computer searches available alongside physical card searches. One of the methods libraries use to classify and organize books is the Dewey Decimal Classification, also known as the Dewey Decimal System. Who made this method of searching for books in the library, and why is it so integral to our educational experience?
The Dewey Decimal System gets its name from Melvil Dewey, an American librarian who claimed to also be a reformer. He developed his idea of a classification system in 1873 while working at the library of Amherst College. In 1876, he published his ideas in a pamphlet titled A Classification and Subject Index for Cataloguing and Arranging the Books and Pamphlets of a Library. He used this pamphlet to promote his ideas to other librarians and sought feedback for his ideas. However, it is unclear how many people read or commented on his pamphlet, as only one copy with comments survived. The same year, he applied for and received a copyright on the first edition of his index, which totaled 44 pages, 2,000 index entries, and had 200 copies printed.
Numerous other editions were printed, with formal adoption beginning in 1885, when the second edition was published. Dewey claimed that over 100 people offered criticism and suggestions for his format. What made it innovative was that the positioning of books was done in relation to other books on similar topics. Previously, most libraries would arrange the books based on height and acquisition, which, by today’s standards, would make no sense. Dewey even made an abridged version of his system in 1894 to help smaller libraries adapt. Others approached Dewey to translate his classification into French in 1895, and by the time of Dewey’s death in 1931, 12 unabridged versions and four abridged versions had been published.
How does the system work? First, it follows a hierarchical classification structure comprising ten classes, which are themselves divided into ten divisions. As for this writing, the ten major classes, notated by call numbers in parentheses, include Computer Science, Information, & General Works (000), Philosophy & Psychology (100), Religion (200), Social Sciences (300), Language (400), Science (500), Technology (600), Arts & Recreation (700), Literature (800), and History & Geography (900), covering nearly all subjects you might learn in school. The following three numbers note the discipline regarding the class. For example, a book about Jesus Christ would be notated under Religion (200), specifically the call number 232. However, to learn about Jesus Christ as a historical figure, the call number would be 232.908. 232 is referred to as the main subject, and the number after the decimal point represents a specific topic. There is a third classification called the Cutter number, which is often based on the author’s last name or title (i.e., the letter in T39 can either indicate the author’s last name or the title of the book). The Cutter number is named after Charles Ammi Cutter, who also developed a classification system alongside Dewey’s system.
While an article on the Dewey Decimal System can run far longer than this space allows, after Dewey’s death in 1931, many libraries found the abridged system to be insufficient, but the full edition to be too cumbersome. The 15th edition, published in 1951, significantly reduced the size of the full edition from 1,900 pages to only 700. An advisory committee was formed for the 16th and 17th editions (1958 and 1965, respectively). By 1993, the first electronic version of the Dewey Decimal System was released; however, hard copy editions are still published to this day. The last major revision to the Dewey Decimal System occurred in 2011.
While the Dewey Decimal System may be daunting to this generation of students, it is vital to know how to navigate the library and become the best student that you can be. While this can be done online today, understanding the origins of this complicated yet effective system can help you better comprehend the library and become a more effective student, potentially leading to an even more effective system in the future.
Words by Jose Alvarez Also published in GADGETS MAGAZINE Volume 25 Issue No. 10.
Yamaha Motor Philippines has officially launched its boldest and most innovative campaign yet, featuring the Yamaha Mio Gravis as the sensible choice for mature and responsible riders. With emphasis on making safer and smarter decisions, the campaign aims to lead the way for the motorcycle riding community to steer away from reckless habits and toward a culture of mindfulness and responsibility on the road.
Making smart decisions on the road
The launch kicked off with a unique and engaging activity: Ridecast by Yamaha, which safely blended the elements of a podcast and a motorcycle ride. Hosted by Mikee Reyes and Kiko Matos, the pair took the road aboard their Mio Gravis, making their way to SM Megamall. Along the way, they dig into various motorcycle-related incidents, emphasizing the importance of safe riding, and discussing everything from traffic etiquette to making smart decisions on the road. The talk further shifts the focus on Mio Gravis, a motorcycle that embodies responsible and sensible riding culture with its smart functions that enable you to take control of the road in a smarter, safer way.
Transforming riding habits into something positive
As Mikee and Kiko reached SM Megamall, the event took a fun and unexpected turn. Instead of a typical finish line, the duo was greeted by a massive, custom-built oven. The eye-catching setup for a live cooking show was led by culinary sensation Ninong Ry. It was a playful and pointed nod to the country’s notorious kamote label.
Kamote is used to refer to reckless, undisciplined motorists that disregard safety and proper road etiquette. Through the cooking show, Ninong Ry expertly showed how kamote can be elevated from its derogatory association to a delicious dish, symbolizing the campaign’s goal to reshape the perceptions of riders and encourage safer, smarter choices on the road.
A sensible revolution for riders
As the event concluded, the riders and audience were reminded that the choices they make on the road can change the culture for the better. The presence of Mio Gravis offers an ideal combination of practicality and confidence on the road with its innovative features designed to support the needs of responsible, mature riders who want to ride with a purpose. Furthermore, it is a call to action for all riders to leave their reckless habits behind and make sensible choices on the road with Mio Gravis.
As Mio Gravis sets the standard for smart mobility, Yamaha continues to be a leader in the movement for safer, more responsible riding practices in the country.
