Health and Wellness company Yoli to fast track its PH growth with LBC Partnership

Health and Wellness company Yoli to fast track its PH growth with LBC Partnership

Thursday, January 19, 2023

Mr. Jerome S. Santos, SVP of LBC Business Solutions and Mr. Kirby Zenger, Chief Operating Officer of Yoli. 

Global health and wellness company Yoli recently visited LBC Business Solutions’ offices to reaffirm its agreement with the leading logistics company in the Philippines as it continues to serve as Yoli’s delivery and warehouse partner.

“LBC has shown how willing they are to help a young company in a new market. They are committed to growing together with us and establishing a long-term partnership,” said Mr. Kirby Zenger, Chief Operating Officer of Yoli.

Joining Mr. Zenger visit was Ms. Boots Remotigue, Country General Manager of Yoli Philippines. “We chose to go with LBC in delivering our precious gift of wellness to the Filipino consumer because of their impressive track record in efficiency and cost-effectiveness,” said Ms. Remotigue. “Their nationwide scope of coverage, as well as logistics expertise when it comes to addressing concerns that are unique to every business entity, made us trust them to carry our products to the last mile — which is, straight to the consumer’s doorstep,” she added.

“LBC Business Solutions’ mission is to be a growth partner to various businesses. We are invested in the success of Yoli and our commitment, as with any of our partners, is to provide exceptional service and take care of our logistics concerns so that they can focus on growing their business,” said Mr. Jerome S. Santos, Senior Vice President of LBC Business Solutions.

To know more about LBC’s business solutions can visit: https://www.lbcexpress.com/business-solutions.

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From Fifty to Five Hundred Employees in Five Years: Boehringer Ingelheim Global Business Services Manila Credits Phenomenal Growth to Employees

From Fifty to Five Hundred Employees in Five Years: Boehringer Ingelheim Global Business Services Manila Credits Phenomenal Growth to Employees

(Photo: From Left) Jose Zaide, managing director and head of GBS Center Manila; Andrea Jakob, vice president and head of GBS Center Network; Rechiel Catalino, senior specialist source-to-pay; Andreas Hilf, senior vice president and head of corporate division GBS 

Multinational pharmaceutical company Boehringer Ingelheim Global Business Services (GBS) Manila recently marked its 5th year in the Philippines with a townhall meet last November 29 at the Grand Ballroom of Crimson Hotel in Alabang, Muntinlupa City.

Originally established as a regional center to provide transactional services in the HR, Finance, and Master Data Management for the APAC region in 2017, the Center grew by leaps and bounds in its Alabang location.

“The success of the Manila operations over the past years validates our decision to establish our GBS center here,” Andrea Jakob, Boehringer Ingelheim GBS Center Network head, said. “Key criteria were the availability of talents, the customer-centric mindset and flexibility of the Philippine workforce, strong communication skills in multiple languages,” she added.

The GBS center in the Philippines initially started with fifty employees in 2017. “Since then, we have grown the Center tremendously, adding services that went beyond what was originally planned. Because of its successes over the last years, we decided to also launch and deliver IT Services from this Center,” said Jose Jamil Zaide, Managing Director and Head of GBS Center Manila. “By the end of November, the Center marked its fifth year, which also happened to be the day we onboarded our 500th employee,” he continued. 

The GBS Center Manila works towards standardizing and centralizing target processes, providing back-office services to Boehringer Ingelheim entities in North America, Japan, China, Australia, and New Zealand. It’s also a service center for Southeast Asian countries like South Korea, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Malaysia. 

“Apart from creating attractive jobs, our employees especially appreciate our culture of empowerment and our focus on people development,” Andreas Hilf, GBS Corporate Division head, explained. “Our drive to develop our employees is important to ensure our people’s employability and to enable them to pursue fulfilling careers within our organization. At the same time, this also enables us to locate higher-value and more complex activities at the GBS Center Manila,” he said.

Members of the Global GBS Leadership Team marked the company milestone by honoring the Center Manila employees at the event. Numerous members were acknowledged for their innovative ideas, commitment, and loyalty. Jakob and Hilf also thanked Zaide along with his leadership team for their untiring drive for excellence.

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SM Investments Group brings the climate conversation to the homefront

SM Investments Group brings the climate conversation to the homefront

Thursday, January 12, 2023

 

World leaders recently gathered in Egypt for COP27 to push forward on the global initiative to deal with the climate crisis. As the world population hits a record eight billion, the stakes are higher to ensure a sustainable and resilient future for the coming generations. With the Philippines being a staunch supporter of the 2015 Paris Agreement and committed to reduce local GHG emissions by 75% (mostly conditioned on external aid to cut emissions), SM Investments Corporation recently convened the “Sustainability Forum PH 2022” at the Conrad Manila in Pasay City. In partnership with WWF Philippines, they are rallying the business community to be “United for Climate.” 

Mr. Frederic DyBuncio, President and CEO of SM Investments highlighted the Filipino’s capacity for sustainable growth. “As the world approaches the tail end of the pandemic, businesses are optimistic about sustaining the post-pandemic rebound. While this positive outlook may result in better conditions for businesses and the job market, we need to take a broader view of our resilience strategy if we are to bounce back better for the long term,” he pointed out. The key to this success will be economic and societal resilience, learning from the disruptions caused by the pandemic, and putting in place plans for the sustenance of the national environment. 

With the Philippines straddling the Typhoon Belt,’ there is a pressing need to swiftly implement a climate mitigation roadmap. Aligned with the discussions at COP27, Mr. DyBuncio highlighted “the need for a robust ecosystem to sustain developing countries through the devastating impact of climate change.” And this is where the SM Group is focusing their forward-thinking initiatives. As he presents it, “We have ingrained resiliency in our culture – dedicating 10% of our capital expenditure or CAPEX to incorporate disaster resiliency and sustainability in our infrastructure designs, equipping our people and communities in disaster preparedness and advocating for disaster resiliency among local governments and international communities.” The conglomerate’s property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. is leading the charge within the group. 

Looking beyond SM’s campaign for a more sustainable future for the Filipino people, Mr. DyBuncio outlined the need to correct the perception that global issues only have a limited or isolated impact to a Philippine context. Climate change is not one of them – as it increases the “risk of biodiversity loss, natural resource crisis, and human environmental damage.” The SM Group hopes to play an important role in curtailing “the devastating societal impacts that will weigh heaviest on the most vulnerable of communities.” At the core of this is signing on to the Task Force for Climate Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), where SM will be “assessing its risks and taking practical steps to reduce its impact by shifting to renewable energy sources to power its operations, among other actions,” he noted.

“We urge that we look at our climate agenda through the lens of the Philippines’ agenda and the realities that Filipino businesses and local communities face every day,” Mr. DyBuncio said. As the prime movers continue to shape the Philippine economy, the goal is to also change the Filipino’s future and its people into a more climate-resilient one.

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Bayad and Peppermint Innovation relaunches partnership, driving innovative bills payment solutions

Bayad and Peppermint Innovation relaunches partnership, driving innovative bills payment solutions

Monday, January 2, 2023

Bayad, the pioneer and most trusted brand in the outsourced payment collection system in the Philippines beefs up its partnership with Peppermint Innovation, an Australian company with a fintech enterprise arm in the Philippines that provides innovative, convenient, and easy-to-use payment technology platforms.

Under the partnership, Bayad will continue to boost the bill payment services of Peppermint Innovation through its mobile application Bizmoto. The Bizmoto App can both be accessed by direct users as well as accredited agents who will enable a one-stop-shop bills payment solution in their respective communities.

As Bayad and Peppermint Innovation recalibrated to a more robust system integration, the number of billers is expected to increase in the Bizmoto app, and process real-time and seamless payment transactions. Today, Bizmoto App already accepts payments for electric and water utilities, cable and internet, government contributions, loan payments, credit cards, school tuition fees, online shopping, insurance, and many others.

In addition, Peppermint will also soon be able to issue a Visa or pre-paid Visa card directly linked to a Bizmoto wallet, thereby empowering recipients to make regular e-commerce and online transactions.

Peppermint Innovation Managing Director and CEO, Christopher Kain said “Through our strengthened partnership with Bayad, we are able to further deliver on our commitment of amplifying digital financial inclusion in the Philippines. We are thrilled to see the heights that we are yet to reach as we share the same commitment with Bayad in bringing convenient and reliable financial services for to more Filipinos.”

“Bayad’s endorsement of our Bizmoto App as an ‘easy, go to, 24/7 access platform’ reflects Peppermint’s objective of being a convenient and easy-to-use bills payment facilitator for Filipinos.”. added Kain.

Bayad President and CEO, Lawrence Y. Ferrer also shared, “We are one with Peppermint Innovation in enabling convenient and reliable financial products and services. We will further intensity our partnership as we scale up our real time bills payment services in the Bizmoto App. Ultimately, all our efforts in Bayad are anchored on our mission of providing quality of life by bridging people and businesses as we help accelerate the country’s economic recovery.”

For financial institutions and digital enterprise like Peppermint Innovation that are interested to be part of Bayad’s extensive channel network, you may send an email to partnerships@bayad.com. Bayad enables partners to attain nationwide presence and provides end-to-end support services for efficient payment and collection processing.

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Meralco partners with ARTA to support government streamlining efforts

Meralco partners with ARTA to support government streamlining efforts

 

The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has partnered with the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) to help local government units (LGUs) automate their business permit and licensing systems in line with the government’s thrust to promote ease in doing business.

In a ceremonial signing held recently, ARTA Director General and Secretary Ernesto V. Perez, Meralco Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Counsel Atty. William S. Pamintuan, and Meralco Assistant Vice President and Head of Biz Joy P. Mendoza signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the “PaspasPilipinasPaspas” project that involves the deployment of desktop computer units to LGUs as part of the Integrated Business Permits and Licensing System (iBPLS).

“It is our honor and privilege to work with ARTA in the distribution of desktop computers to local government units under the iBPLS program. Through all these collaborative efforts, Meralco affirms its commitment to ARTA in helping ensure efficient and streamlined processes and quality service for businesses all over the country,” Atty. Pamintuan said.

Meralco’s donation of computer units will help the LGUs in setting up their Electronic Business One-Stop Shops (eBOSS) to ensure red-tape free and more convenient business registration—from application to approval of permits.

Prior to the signing of the MOA, ARTA Director General Sec. Perez took note of the agency’s latest collaboration with Meralco, which has long been a partner of ARTA in its efforts to improve government efficiency.

“We, at the ARTA, together with our partners commit to continue the battle against red tape, provide more seamless government transactions to the people, and make the Philippines more globally competitive,” Secretary Perez said.

He also thanked Meralco for the newest “PaspasPilipinasPaspas” project partnership and expressed hopes of future collaborations.

“We thank Meralco for its support to our initiatives for the collective benefit of the people,” he said. “We hope that this latest partnership is just one of many more collaborations between Meralco and ARTA.”

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The Asian Banker recognizes UnionBank as 3-time Best Retail Bank in the Philippines and Best Digital Banking Services in the Philippines

The Asian Banker recognizes UnionBank as 3-time Best Retail Bank in the Philippines and Best Digital Banking Services in the Philippines

Friday, December 16, 2022

 

Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) received two major awards at The Asian Banker Excellence in Retail Financial Services and Technology Innovation Awards 2022, the most rigorous, prestigious, and transparent country level award programme for consumer financial services and technology in the Philippines, at its first in-person event held at the Ballroom of Fairmont Makati.

Best Retail Bank in the Philippines

For ‘demonstrating a long-term, sustainable, profitable franchise with customers as its core proposition,’ The Asian Banker awarded UnionBank as the Best Retail Bank in the Philippines for the third consecutive year. 

Based on The Asian Banker’s research, UnionBank ‘sustained above-industry performance despite setbacks brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Bank achieved a double-digit growth year-on-year (YoY) in retail gross revenue. It also recorded a significant improvement in retail return on equity (ROE) at 33%, up from 20.4% in the previous year.

It has onboarded about 2.5 million customer accounts. Contributing to the bank’s performance in 2021 was the bank’s ecosystem-focused customer acquisition strategy and digital capabilities. 

“Winning the (Best Retail Bank in the Philippines) award is a validation of the efforts of every UnionBanker, each one contributing to bringing our vision to life. It gives us the resolve to continue innovation and digitization… as we bring the future of banking to the present by co-creating innovations for a better world,” said UnionBank Retail Banking Center Head, Mary Joyce S. Gonzalez, in her acceptance speech.

Best Digital Banking Services in the Philippines

In addition to the above recognition, The Asian Banker also awarded UnionBank as the Best Digital Banking Services in the Philippines ‘for providing a unified and seamless customer experience.’

Based on their research, the Bank ‘provides a seamless, innovative, and simplified user experience to customers while ensuring a high level of security and reliability. 

The Bank built more than 100 robotic process automation (RPA) processes which cover account opening and know your customer (KYC), billing collection, cards, cheque deposit, anti-money laundering, data quality, credit investigation, document generation and management, document generation and management, fraud management, loans, reconciliation, and reports. 

With the help of its fintech arm, the bank gained further traction in signups and the volume of transactions across all its platforms grew by 30% YoY. The transaction volume already breached the one million mark in a single month.’ 

“As our President and CEO said ‘luck favors the prepared, but more rightfully so, fortune favors the bold.’ If we did not take the first step to digitally transform over six years ago, then we would not have the accomplishments that we have today. We remain steadfast in our commitment to ‘Tech Up, Pilipinas’ and enable inclusive prosperity, making sure that no one gets left behind,” said UnionBank Blockchain and API Head, Cathy Casas upon receiving the Best Digital Banking Services in the Philippines award.

The Asian Banker assess banks and non-banks in the Philippines on a product and business level through a comprehensive evaluation process. Previously, they assessed banks based on criteria and scorecards which it believed the retail banking proposition and technology proposition should be. However, in line with the rapid transformation the financial industry is experiencing today, it has also revamped its awards programme. For 2022, it has redefined categories, introduced new scorecards and opened the programme to financial technology (fintech) companies, marketplace platforms and other alternative providers. 

It is the region’s most authoritative provider of strategic business intelligence to the financial services community. The Singapore-based company has offices in Singapore, Malaysia, Manila, Hong Kong, Beijing, and Dubai, as well as representatives in London, New York, and San Francisco. It has a business model that revolves around three core business lines: publications, research services and forums. 

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UnionBank Techs Up with Globe Fleet Management Solutions

UnionBank Techs Up with Globe Fleet Management Solutions

 

Partnership to promote better efficiency, personnel productivity in company managed vehicles.

UnionBank is known for bringing digital banking innovations that have an immediate impact to clients. On the back-end of things operational and technical innovations that ultimately benefit the clients are also what the bank constantly works on. Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) has tapped Globe Business for a partnership that will help the Bank in making the operation of their vehicles more efficient. The partnership was made official through a contract signing ceremony that took place last November 16 at the UnionBank Plaza in Pasig City.

"With our drive to 'Tech Up Pilipinas' and be an enabler of the Philippines' push to be a G20 country by 2050, we partnered with Globe Business to co-create innovations that are crucial to the success of our Digital Transformation Plan," shares Vincent Paul M. Castillo, Vice President, Cash Services Group Head. "Together, we innovated technology derived from our internal and external customers’ unique experiences and perspectives."

As part of their partnership, UnionBank will utilize the wide range of fleet management solutions offered by Globe Business, which are powered by Globe's next-generation connectivity and expansive nationwide coverage enabled by its thousands of cell towers located in strategic areas nationwide.

Among the benefits provided by the partnership are improved correspondence between UnionBank's vehicles and their communication centers, top-notch internet connectivity for each vehicle for better use of relevant in-vehicle tools and apps, and stronger security measures to protect the vehicles and their operators especially while on the road.

Ultimately, the partnership will help UnionBank serve its customers across different segments better, while making it easier for its fleet personnel, as well as those who work in its bank branches being served by the vehicles, to perform their roles more effectively in line with UnionBank's goal of promoting inclusive prosperity in the country.

"We've always looked at UnionBank as very like-minded, and we've always been very proud about being able to provide solutions and partner constantly in being able to digitally transform and always be a step ahead of all digital banking initiatives in the Philippines," said Globe Business Vice President for Enterprise Sales Tanya Gil-Padilla.

"This solution will ensure productivity, save fuel costs, and offer fleet management efficiency," said UnionBank's Chief Security Officer and Head of Security Management Group, retired RAdm. Rommel Galang. "In line with the desire to deliver innovative solutions, we stand firm with the Bank's promises to power the future of banking through innovation."

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Bayad awarded as SSS’ 2022 Balikat ng Bayan Best Collecting Partner

Bayad awarded as SSS’ 2022 Balikat ng Bayan Best Collecting Partner

 

Bayad, the pioneer and the most trusted brand in the outsourced payment collection industry in the Philippines, and now a full-service fintech subsidiary of the biggest power conglomerate in the country – Meralco, was recently conferred as SSS’ Best Collecting Partner under the non-bank category during the 2022 Balikat ng Bayan Awards.

The said award giving body has been established since 1995 and has continued to recognize individuals, employers, and organizations that significantly contributed to SSS’ pursuit of its mandate, which underpins the importance of saving and investing among its members and their beneficiaries.

This 2022, SSS puts Bayad to spotlight, acknowledging the company’s consistent compliance of accurate and timely collection reports as well as its active participation in the integral programs of the institution. Apart from these, Bayad breaks records with a 9% growth rate increase in SSS contribution transaction volume from 2021 to 2022, which substantiates how Bayad ceaselessly scales up its physical and digital payment touchpoint to deliver a one stop shop payment solution to its customers. With this, SSS members can now conveniently access other bills payment services covering for various government contributions, loan, electric and water utilities, cable & internet, tuition fees, online shopping, insurance, and many others. This payment experience is also backed up by Bayad’s real-time posting feature, allowing SSS members to process and monitor instant and seamless contribution payments.

Bayad President and CEO, Lawrence Y. Ferrer underscored “All of our efforts in Bayad are directed towards the belief that Filipinos deserve to be rewarded for their hard work. We will stand with SSS in every step of the way as we elevate the financial experience of its members through convenient and secured payment transactions.” 

For government, financial, and banking institutions that are interested to be part of Bayad’s extensive biller and payment channel network, you may send an email to partnerships@bayad.com. Bayad enables partners to attain nationwide presence and provides end-to-end support services for efficient payment and collection processing.

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HSAC Techs Up with UnionBank's UPAY for digital settlement of fees

HSAC Techs Up with UnionBank's UPAY for digital settlement of fees

Monday, December 5, 2022

 

The Human Settlements Adjudication Commission (HSAC) has signed a memorandum of agreement with Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) for a partnership that will allow HSAC to digitize the payment of fees for its services. The signing ceremony took place last November 23 at the HSAC Office in Quezon City.

Through the agreement, HSAC will utilize UnionBank's proprietary payment platform UPAY to help digitize the settlement of fees for those who avail of the agency's services. This makes transactions easier and more convenient, and is a milestone in the agency's ongoing efforts to transform digitally.

UPAY by UnionBank is a platform that brings together various payment methods together in one place, giving users access to a wide selection of payment options available today. These include payments through the UnionBank Online mobile app, InstaPay, debit and credit cards, digital wallets, and over-the-counter payments through official partners, to name just a few.

"It is now time for HSAC to give its stakeholders a faster and simpler method of paying their legal fees with only a few clicks," said HSAC Executive Commissioner Atty. Melzar Galicia.

"Through UPAY, HSAC hopes to provide stakeholders a quicker and more convenient way of paying the required legal fees for their cases with HSAC," said HSAC Commissioner and Adviser of TWG for Digital Transformation Atty. Sergio Yap II.

"We are delighted to introduce this newest service to you through which HSAC litigants can now pay their legal fees conveniently right on HSAC's own website," said UnionBank EVP and Transaction Banking Head Mon Duarte. "This partnership is in line with UnionBank's mantra of 'Tech-up Pilipinas' where we seek to make banking enjoyable and safe through digital for all Filipinos."

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Emirates and flydubai celebrate five years of partnership

Emirates and flydubai celebrate five years of partnership

Sunday, November 27, 2022

 

5 things to know about how they’re delivering more benefits for travelers

This month marks five years since Emirates and flydubai activated their extensive partnership and joined forces to offer customers unrivaled travel options to every corner of the globe. They’ve certainly delivered on their promise. The carriers’ joint route network has significantly expanded, enabling more than 11 million customers to connect on over 250,000 flights and benefit from seamless travel since the partnership launched in 2017.

The innovative partnership goes beyond the standard codesharing model and today includes integrated network collaboration, schedule optimization, seamless connectivity at Dubai International airport (DXB) between Terminals 2 and 3, baggage transfers on a single itinerary, as well as reciprocal loyalty benefits under the joint loyalty program, Emirates Skywards.

Here’s five key highlights of Emirates and flydubai’s partnership and the benefits it offers to customers:

Joint network offers unrivalled choice: Today, customers have access to 215 destinations across 98 countries, with over 250 codeshare flights to choose from on an average day. Emirates customers can book flights to over 80 unique flydubai destinations and flydubai customers can choose from over 99 Emirates destinations. Popular customer favorites, whether traveling for business or leisure include: Kathmandu, Kuwait, the Maldives, Tel Aviv, and Zanzibar.

Joint loyalty program maximising customer rewards: More than 8.5 million members have been able to enjoy joint Emirates and flydubai frequent flyer program benefits, earning 150 billion Skywards Miles in the last five years through the partnership.

Seamless connectivity at DXB: Customers enjoy seamless check-in, efficient baggage transfers, passenger access to Emirates’ lounges at Terminal 3 and the flydubai lounge at Terminal 2, reduced connection times as both airlines expand their flight schedules, and convenient connections to 33 flydubai destinations operated from Emirates Terminal 3 in DXB.

Continued network growth: New travel opportunities are being created for the 270,000 passengers who connect between both airlines each month as Emirates and flydubai continue to add more flights to their schedules. This offers customers more flexibility with multiple daily flight departures to destinations like Bahrain, Kuwait, Karachi, the Maldives, key cities in Saudi Arabia and Tel Aviv. Both airlines also continue to expand their networks, with Emirates recently reinstating flights to Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires. In 2022, flydubai’s network has grown bigger than ever, launching flights to Al Ula, Namangan, Osh, Pisa and Samarkand, to name a few. flydubai has also announced services to Gan in the Maldives, Cagliari and Milan-Bergamo in Italy, Corfu in Greece and Krabi and Pattaya in Thailand from 2023 as well as the resumption of flights to Abha, Ha’il, Hofuf and Tabuk in Saudi Arabia.

Continued investment in enhancing the customer experience: Emirates will retrofit 120 aircraft with Premium Economy seats starting this month as part of a $2 billion investment which also includes elevated dining options and more sustainable choices. flydubai has debuted a new Business Class recliner seat offering customers more comfort on its short and medium haul flights. flydubai has grown its fleet to 70 Boeing 737 aircraft and will retrofit a number of its existing aircraft, as well as equip its future aircraft, with its new Business Class seats.

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Emirates and Gulf Air Launch Codeshare Partnership

Emirates and Gulf Air Launch Codeshare Partnership

Monday, November 21, 2022

 

• Partnership offers Gulf Air customers with global connections across Europe, Africa, South America and the Far East with one convenient stop in Dubai

• The partnership is a significant milestone towards the growing relationship between Emirates and Gulf Air

Emirates and Gulf Air have today officially signed a unilateral codeshare partnership, starting this December*. The new agreement will offer easy connections and expanded choices for Gulf Air customers connecting to Dubai and onwards to a host of Emirates destinations across Europe, Africa, South America and the Far East. 

The agreement was signed on the first day of the Bahrain Airshow, signaling a growing relationship between both airlines following on the framework of cooperation established last year. The agreement was signed by Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline and Gulf Air’s Chief Executive Officer Captain Waleed Al Alawi in the presence of H.E. Mr. Zayed R. Alzayani, Gulf Air’s Chairman of the Board of Directors. The signing ceremony was also attended by members of each airline’s executive management teams.

The expanded partnership will see Gulf Air place their marketing code "GF" on Emirates operated flights beyond Dubai to a selection of some of the most attractive global tourism hotspots, offering new holiday options for Gulf Air customers. Travelers will be able to connect to points including Budapest, Prague, Warsaw, Algeria, Tunis, Bali, Hanoi, HoChi Minh City, Taipei and Sao Paulo. 

The new codeshare agreement’s mix of unique points comes as travelers from the GCC have become more well-informed, value-driven and savvy, increasingly looking for new, diverse experiences and attractions beyond their traditional holiday destinations. 

The new partnership will also offer customers the convenience of combined ticketing and check-in, a unified policy and seamless transfers for baggage, and competitive single fares on a multi-airline journey when connecting on Emirates. Customers can book their travel on Gulf Air’s website, through Gulf Air point of sales and online travel agencies as well as with local travel agents. 

"We are pleased to partner with Gulf Air to offer their customers greater access and strong connection opportunities to unique destinations on our network, complemented by Emirates’ signature in-flight service and hospitality throughout their journey from Dubai. We look forward to working together and achieving more with Gulf Air in the near future, and further strengthening our relationship," said Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline.

"Our relationship with Emirates Airline has always been strong and today we are reaching a higher level of collaboration with many more opportunities in the horizon between the two carriers. This partnership will empower both of us to offer a more elevated experience to passengers and widen their travel options," Captain Waleed Al Alawi, Gulf Air Chief Executive Officer commented.

Emirates currently has codeshare cooperation agreements in place with 26 airline partners and two rail companies around the world, expanding its network reach to over 300 cities.

*Subject to government approvals.

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LBC to provide support for IKEA online store expansion and upcoming 11.11 promo

LBC to provide support for IKEA online store expansion and upcoming 11.11 promo

Friday, November 18, 2022

 

Global home furnishing brand IKEA expands the reach of its online store to more areas in Luzon together with the announcement of its 11.11 promo. Fulfillment of deliveries will be done by its partner LBC, one of the most preferred logistics companies in the Philippines.

IKEA online shoppers can enjoy 50% off on parcel delivery fees when checking out their online carts from IKEA Philippines this Friday, November 11, 2022.

Online shoppers can choose their Parcel and Parcel Max deliveries at the discounted rate under the 11.11 promo. These deliveries are a service LBC has been providing to the IKEA online store since September 2021.

“LBC has established a strong partnership with IKEA, one of the most popular brands in the world. We are honored to be able to serve as bridge between IKEA and their many customers and to do this by ensuring that we deliver on time and with utmost care,” Jerome S. Santos, SVP Corporate Sales.

Santos also expressed his excitement over IKEA’s planned expansion to more areas in Luzon, promising that LBC will provide the same level of service to this new customer base.

“By working closely with its business partners, LBC continues with its mandate of helping businesses move it faster and better, all in helping grow the economy. The company is already poised to service other geographical areas in the country soon as IKEA expands its parcel delivery services in the near future,” he added.

Those who are interested to know more about LBC’s business solutions can visit: https://www.lbcexpress.com/business-solutions.

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Allianz PNB Life ranked 3rd among life insurance companies based on latest PH Insurance Commission statistics

Allianz PNB Life ranked 3rd among life insurance companies based on latest PH Insurance Commission statistics

Thursday, November 10, 2022

Allianz PNB Life recently ranked third in terms of Gross Written Premium (GWP) and New Business Annualized Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) in the Philippine Insurance Commission’s (IC) latest performance report for the first and second quarter of 2022.

Allianz PNB Life has performed consistently year on year. In 2021, it ranked fourth under the same categories, while in 2020, the company was listed as 7th in GWP and 8th in NBAPE.

“Insurance penetration is only at 2% in the Philippines and remains one of the lowest in Asia. There is heightened awareness for the importance of insurance however and we continue to enhance our efforts to become the trusted insurance partner of Filipinos,” said Allianz PNB Life President and CEO, Alexander Grenz. “We are grateful to our customers and partners for choosing us every day and propelling our organization to the Top 3 position in both GWP and NBAPE especially considering how we were 10th and 11th respectively when I assumed the role of CEO in 2019.”

This announcement follows the release of the Allianz Global Wealth Report 2022, where data on the asset and debt situation of households in almost 60 countries can be found, including the Philippines. In the report, the Philippines was notable for its 10.4% increase in financial assets growth driven by pension and life insurance assets, the latter of which showed a growth of up to 13.0%.

Despite entering the market only in 2016, Allianz PNB Life has achieved remarkable performance among more established competitors. “This achievement is ultimately attributed to our hardworking and dedicated Allianz PNB Life employees and expert financial advisors aptly referred to as Life Changers,” Grenz noted. “Their strong commitment to our purpose of securing the future of Filipinos is the reason why we have significant strides in terms of over-all market ranking.”

Since 2019, Allianz has been recognized as the number one insurance brand in the world. As a leading insurance provider, Allianz PNB Life’s products and services are designed to meet the lifetime financial planning, wealth accumulation, and well-being aspirations of Filipinos. For more information, please visit www.allianzpnblife.ph.

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Cadian Studios transforms storytelling into meaningful experiences through world-class production and content creation

Cadian Studios transforms storytelling into meaningful experiences through world-class production and content creation

Wednesday, November 2, 2022

 

Cadian Studios is currently making huge strides as a creative and media agency that pushes the boundaries of storytelling through innovative technology and music production.

Taking pride in working with established record labels in the Philippines (Viva Records, Warner Music, O/C Records) and Web3 brands in Singapore (Imaginary Ones and Imaginary Junior), the talented team of creative strategists, producers, art directors, and sound engineers stand poised in affirming its place with delivering world-class production and content creation.

To date, Cadian Studios has generated millions of earned online media impressions from content produced with brands and artists, something that its 27-year-old founder and CEO Ron Pangyarihan could attest.

“Our culture sets us apart from other creative and media agencies,” shares the budding entrepreneur, writer, and music producer. “It is the backbone of our company. Our culture of creativity and collaboration allows us to transform stories into remarkable experiences. We dedicate ourselves to the pursuit of putting our clients' ideas into world-class production to create stories that communicate and inspire.”

Aside from overseeing the development and creative executions of the company, Pangyarihan is also passionate about building things that make a positive impact. He writes and creates music for Color The Era, his solo project under Viva Records. 

While Cadian Studios had its share of challenges during its inception, the production agency is fortunate enough to be in a position that allows people to be the best version of themselves.

“One of the biggest challenges we experienced during our first few months was building a good culture from the ground up,” says the young CEO. “Culture impacts the continuity of a company the most. At Cadian Studios, we do not treat people as resources but as humans. Everything we do is a work of art so I know every single piece of content that we produce is made with our hearts. I believe the culture of creativity and collaboration will take us far.”

Few years from now, Cadian Studios aims to be on the frontier of creatives and media, hoping to build a legacy of reputable magnitude to cater to the needs of the industry, despite the ever-changing trends. “We want to work with the greatest storytellers and push the boundaries of storytelling by producing high-quality and remarkable content that impacts people,” Pangyarihan adds.

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EastWest and JCB: Celebration of a Partnership

EastWest and JCB: Celebration of a Partnership

 

East West Banking Corporation and JCB International Co., Ltd. have recently sealed a partnership for the launch of the new EastWest JCB Credit Card. 

The signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) was recently held at the Hotel Okura Manila and was witnessed by officials from both institutions. EastWest was headed by Vice Chairman and CEO Antonio C. Moncupa, Jr. and President Jacqueline S. Fernandez. The JCB executives, on the other hand, was headed by President and COO Yoshiki Kaneko.

In his opening remarks, Moncupa pointed out that EastWest’s partnership with JCB is part of the Bank’s efforts to meet their customers’ growing needs for financial products that will allow them to have more options and better experiences in their everyday life.

“With the EastWest JCB Credit Card, we are bringing more Filipinos closer to the Japan experience in general and, in particular, to see the famed ‘Customer-Centered Focus,’ the core of JCB’s ‘Service from the Heart’ service standards. He added that the EastWest JCB Credit Card will be a new way to better experience the modern lifestyle that Japan has to offer.

“As JCB says, ‘it is uniquely yours.’ We thank JCB International for the partnership as we share the wonders of the well-known ‘Japanese way’ with our customers,” Moncupa said.

Kaneko pointed out in his remarks that he considered the MOA signing a historic one since EastWest is the first issuing partner of JCB in the Philippines for the past 25 years.

“As the only international payment brand from Japan, JCB stays true to its Japanese pillars of reliability, preciseness, and hospitality. EastWest reflects the same flexibility and drives to deliver the best customer experience that we champion. Your adherence to the values that we stand for has made both our companies a perfect match,” Kaneko said.

He added that through the partnership, both EastWest and JCB would be able to deliver a world-class level of care and satisfaction to customers in the Philippines and bring them closer to Japan.

For her part, FVP and Credit Cards Business Head Mia P. Tamayo, reaffirmed the excitement in EastWest to officially bring the limitless potential of the partnership to fruition and realization.

“For many Filipinos, experiencing the wonders of Japan is a dream that we want to fulfill. This partnership with JCB will definitely bring our customers to the many reasons that we are in awe and enamored with Japan,” she said.

Tamayo also thanked this momentous partnership between EastWest and JCB. She added that the Japanese wonders of customized service, meticulous visual experience, convenience, relevance, grace and elegance are only one swipe away.

Experience the wonder of Japan with your EastWest JCB Gold Credit Card and EastWest JCB Platinum Credit Card.

Get rewards and savings here, in Japan, and everywhere you go. Earn and accumulate reward points and redeem them for airline miles, cash rebate, or annual membership fee waiver. Enjoy year-round special promotions and discounts from partner merchants. Save even more on your international purchases with a low foreign currency conversion fee.

Elevate your travel experience with complimentary JCB Airport Lounge and JCB Plaza Lounge in Japan and other cities abroad. What’s more, delight in exclusive travel and lifestyle benefits with the EastWest JCB Platinum Privileges

So, what are you waiting for? Apply now for an EastWest JCB Credit Card! Visit bit.ly/EWBJCBCards or head to the nearest EastWest store.

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Emirates SkyCargo and United Cargo announce landmark agreement

Emirates SkyCargo and United Cargo announce landmark agreement

Thursday, October 27, 2022

 

Emirates SkyCargo and United Cargo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that follows on the heels of the new broader historic commercial agreement between two of the largest global airlines. This coordination will deliver benefits to air freight customers of both Emirates Skycargo and United Cargo around the world.

The MoU was signed at the World Cargo Symposium (WCS) – IATA event in London, UK by Nabil Sultan, Emirates Divisional Senior Vice President, Cargo and Jan Krems, President, United Cargo.

Under the terms of the MoU, Emirates SkyCargo and United Cargo will work closely on a number of aspects, which include expanding cargo interline options and blocked space agreements, pending regulatory approvals. This will build on existing cargo interline arrangements between both air cargo operators and offer freight customers access to more capacity on a larger combined global network.

"Emirates SkyCargo is committed to being the leading player in the global air cargo industry providing our customers with the highest standards of products and services. Cooperating with United, who is a leading airline in its own right with strengths and a network that are complementary to our own, will allow us to add value for our customers and help them reach new markets more speedily," said Nabil Sultan, Emirates Divisional Senior Vice President, Cargo.

"United is pleased to work with Emirates SkyCargo on this MoU. As one of the leading carriers worldwide, Emirates SkyCargo is an important player in the industry, and our supplementary capabilities allow us to provide new service offerings to our customers worldwide. We share a common commitment to providing industry-leading solutions for our customers and we look forward to working together in the future," said Jan Krems, President, United Cargo.

United Cargo will have access to Emirates SkyCargo’s high frequency distribution network through the belly-hold of passenger flights to over 100 global destinations and 11 freighters, whilst Emirates SkyCargo will have access to over 200 cities in the US and 300 cities across five continents through United Cargo.

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Allianz Global Wealth Report 2022 sees positive outcomes in financial asset growth and insurance coverage for PH

Allianz Global Wealth Report 2022 sees positive outcomes in financial asset growth and insurance coverage for PH

 

Leading global insurance brand Allianz has recently released its Allianz Global Wealth Report 2022, which compounds facts and figures based on the asset and debt situation of households in almost 60 countries, including the Philippines.

According to the report, 2019 to 2021 saw an exponential boom in the growth of global financial assets, with bullish stock markets powered by monetary policy and an increase in private wealth among households. Asia (excluding Japan), Eastern Europe and North America stood out as major contributors to asset growth, and savings were powered primarily by bank deposits, insurance and pensions.

However, the inflation crisis due to escalating situations in Europe seems to have stifled the global economic recovery from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on current estimations, global financial assets are set to decline by more than 2% this year, making it the first significant decrease since the 2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis (GFC). The projected increase in the next three years stands at only 4.6%, less than half the growth experienced in 2019 to 2021.

Fortunately, the Philippines remains one of the stronger players in Asia Pacific when it comes to financial asset growth. According to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Felipe Medalla, the Philippine economy is much stronger now in comparison to during the GFC. In fact, the country's gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 7.8% in the first half of 2022.[1]

Even amid rate hikes imposed by the US Federal Reserve System (US Fed) to combat inflation, Medalla stated the Philippine economy could remain stable, as long as appropriate policies are implemented.

Meanwhile, Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Benjamin Diokno agreed with the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) projection that the Philippines is expected to post the highest economic growth rate in the region, due in part to the reopening of the economy, domestic consumption, and infrastructure investment.[2]

In terms of gross financial assets, the Philippines has seen a 10.4% increase, primarily driven by the development of life insurance and pension assets. Insurance growth, in particular, rose by 13.0%. However, insurance penetration in the Philippines is still among the lowest in Asia.

“There is a massive need for financial protection and literacy in the Philippines, considering an insurance penetration rate of just around 2%. This translates to millions of Filipinos exposed to financial losses, and a protection gap that amounts to trillions of pesos,” said Allianz PNB Life’s Chief Financial Officer, Fang Siong Chong. “But as observed, Filipinos are gradually investing in insurance protection products. In 2021, the Insurance Commission reported the annual growth rate in premiums earned was at its highest since 2016 at 25.03%.[3]Whether it’s through the realizations made during the pandemic, or because a new generation of Filipinos are thinking more about securing their future, we are confident that the insurance gap will continue to diminish.”

As one of the leading insurance companies in the Philippines, Allianz PNB Life plays a major role in closing the insurance gap. It ranked Top 4 in terms of Gross Written Premium (GWP) and New Business Annualized Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) in 2021, and in the latest ranking by the Insurance Commission for the first quarter of 2022, the company rose to occupy the Top 3 spot for GWP and NBAPE.

Allianz PNB Life is also strong in its efforts to further improve financial literacy and access to financial services in the Philippines. Through Allianz Kaagapay, the company’s financial literacy education program, it is able to encourage financial wellness and inclusion among underserved Filipino communities. Participants receive free life insurance for one year to give them an appreciation for the importance of being covered. The organization is also well known for its Ride Safe programs promoting sustainable mobility in partnership with local government units and cycling advocacy groups. 

“The Asia Pacific region is a substantial value contributor to the Allianz Group. We at Allianz PNB Life proudly play a more significant role in the region given our success in realizing the immense potential of the Philippine insurance market” said Allianz PNB Life President and CEO, Alexander Grenz. 

With regard to the economic stability of the Philippines in the next few years, Allianz PNB Life echoes the optimism of the Allianz Global Wealth Report. “The Philippines is an emerging market with double-digit financial asset growth. Alongside the outlook provided by AMRO, as well as the commitment of the government to implementing measures and policies that will ensure that the Philippines will be able to carry itself through the current economic weather, I am positive that we will see a continued trend of growth financially within the country.”

Since 2019, Allianz has been recognized as the number one insurance brand in the world. As a leading insurance provider, Allianz PNB Life’s products and services are designed to meet the lifetime financial planning, wealth accumulation, and well-being aspirations of Filipinos. To learn more about the Allianz Global Wealth Report 2022, view the video here. For more information on Allianz PNB Life’s products and services, please visit www.allianzpnblife.ph.

[1] https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/10/10/business/top-business/bsp-ph-economy-now-stronger/1861648

[2] https://www.dof.gov.ph/dof-ph-to-post-highest-growth-in-asean3-in-2022/

[3] https://www.insurance.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IC-Press-Release-27-April-2022.pdf

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Emirates takes home three honors at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2022

Emirates takes home three honors at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2022

Wednesday, October 5, 2022

 

Emirates has taken home three awards at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2022, including World's Best Economy Class, World's Best Economy Class Catering, and for the 17th consecutive time, World's Best Inflight Entertainment. The awards are a testament to the airline’s commitment to offering the very best customer experience in the sky, where travelers in Economy Class can look forward to spacious cabins, carefully crafted menus, an unmatched range of in-flight entertainment choices, thoughtful amenities like kids toys, and much more.

At a time when cost-cutting has become the norm, the airline is making long-term investments to further elevate its product and service strategy in every cabin class.

This latest recognition from Skytrax comes on the heels of the airline’s recent announcement that it is investing over US$ 2 billion to enhance its inflight customer experience. This includes one of the largest retrofit projects in aviation history spanning 120 aircraft which will soon sport the airline’s latest interior concepts, a new hospitality-focused service delivery model, and best-in-class product enhancements across all cabins, starting this year. Emirates will also be investing over US$ 350 million in next-generation inflight entertainment systems with Thales for passengers to experience the airline’s massive library of 5,000 channels on high-definition screens, along with a host of other high-tech features on its incoming fleet of A350 aircraft.

Customers flying Emirates’ Economy Class, no matter where they choose to travel on the airline’s 130 destination strong network, can look forward to a menu infused with regional and seasonal flavors, featuring hearty main dishes and sides, and an indulgent dessert inspired by their destination. Emirates also prides itself in celebrating unique cultures and traditions from around the globe by offering signature dishes for occasions like Diwali, Christmas, Ramadan, Eid Al Adha, Lunar New Year and more recently, Oktoberfest and Onam.

Emirates offers one of the most comprehensive and state-of-the-art entertainment and communications services in the skies. ice, the inflight entertainment system awarded by Skytrax for the 17th time this year, offers over 5,000 channels of entertainment, with 4,000 hours of movies and TV, and close to 3,500 hours of music and podcasts. Customers can also choose content in 40 languages. In addition to entertainment, Emirates ice offers a range of other useful features, such as: the ability to check the status of your flight; a real-time view of the sky during take-off and landing from cameras fixed on the aircraft’s nose, tail and underbelly; EmiratesRED; the world’s first inflight TV shopping channel and LIVE TV.

ice is also the only inflight entertainment system that offers exclusive programming from Shahid, with over 135 hours of highly popular Arabic content across 15 shows, with more to be added in the coming months. Emirates was the first airline in the region partner with HBO Max, offering exclusive hits only offered through the streaming service.

Emirates’ on board product experience is complemented by the airline’s cosmopolitan team of cabin crew who hail from over 130 nationalities. Crew members, already trained on providing the very best inflight service, are further levelling up their hospitality experience through a rigorous training program that was designed in partnership with Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne. The latest program is focused on mastering the four service pillars: Excellence, Attentiveness, Innovation and Passion.

Driving radical changes in the customer experience also includes small touches that make a big difference, not only for customers but the planet as well. Economy Class customers can snuggle up in warm and soft sustainable blankets made of 100% recycled plastic bottles. The airline also offers sustainably-made amenity kit bags for Economy Class customers on select long haul flights, which have been newly redesigned to represent the four elements - fire, water, earth and air, as a reminder of the careful balance required to preserve for the future of our planet. The kit’s travel essentials - socks, eyeshades, toothbrush and tooth paste, as well as bookmark, are all made from environmentally-friendly materials and come in natural earth tones.

Little flyers traveling across all classes can also keep busy with special plush toys and blankets as well as a selection of ‘fly with me’ belt bags, duffle bags and backpacks. All children’s items and toys have been consciously made of 100% recycled raw materials including drinking bottles, and swing tags use non-toxic soy based ink printed on recycled cardboard.

On the ground, Emirates has been working hard to create a smart contactless journey for its customers. Travelers can choose to use its integrated biometric path in DXB to check in for their flight, complete immigration formalities, and board their flights. Customers can also use the airline’s touchless self-check-in and bag drop kiosks at Dubai International (DXB).

The smart contactless experience continues on board with digital menus available on the Emirates app, and customers can also use the app to create a preferred playlist for ice.

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3 Reasons Why You’ll Need Affordable Fund Transfer Fees

3 Reasons Why You’ll Need Affordable Fund Transfer Fees

Wednesday, September 28, 2022

 

No matter the reason, it’s easier and more hassle-free with EastWest’s low transaction fees

Sending funds online has become more of a necessity in this digital world. The ongoing presence of the pandemic and the press of busy schedules can make going to banks increasingly difficult. This is where easy and affordable online fund transfer systems can come in. With an app like this in hand, you can take control of your time and process your fund transfer needs easily online.

1. Transfer Money to Anyone With Ease

Whether you need to send money to your loved ones or to anyone else for a simple transaction, one of the easiest ways to do it is through a bank transfer. Online and mobile banking make sending money easier in a few simple taps or clicks. And this can be done in the convenience of your own home or even from your workplace. You can easily reclaim any time lost when you had to physically go to banks and line up at crowded counters before.

2. Skip the Lines and Go Online Shopping

Many online apps and services for food and goods also require a reliable online fund transfer system. You can quickly gain access to all your favorite meals and items by completing your purchases via fund transfers. This way, you can have more control over your choices by being able to access multiple options when looking for exactly what you want, when you want it.

3. Pay Bills Easily and Conveniently

Another perk that you gain when you have a reliable online fund transfer app is the ability to pay your bills online. There will no longer be a need for you go to separate utility centers or payment outlets. All you need to do is select the necessary utility service on your app and pay online with ease.

With all the fund transfers you’ll be doing, transaction fees could add up to a significant amount. These are resources that you could have otherwise saved or allocated for other expenses. It is best to have a bank that has low online transfer fees that work in your favor. And low transfer fees are what you will exactly get when you send money with EastWest. Their fund transfers via InstaPay have a low transaction fee of only P10. Additionally, for other planned remittances and scheduled expenses, PESONet remains to be free! With these services, you will no longer be forced to pay steep fees when purchasing or transferring funds online.

You can now easily take control over your spending with EastWest’s low bank transfer fees! If you don’t have an EastWest account yet, visit https://www.eastwestbanker.com/easyway/account-opening for a faster and safer way to open an account. For more info and updates, follow EastWest on Facebook at facebook.com/eastwestbanker.

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Bayad and PLDT Global offer Filipinos more options for borderless payment solutions

Bayad and PLDT Global offer Filipinos more options for borderless payment solutions

Monday, September 26, 2022

 

Bayad, a full-service fintech subsidiary of Meralco and the pioneer brand in the outsourced payment collection system in the Philippines beefs up its partnership with PLDT Global Corporation, the international arm of the country’s leading integrated telco company PLDT. 

Under the partnership, PLDT Global’s one-stop-shop payment platform TINBO (Tindahan ni Bossing), enables Filipinos overseas to conveniently settle their bills for Philippine brands that are powered by Bayad. These cover payments for electric and water utility, cable and internet, government contributions, loan payments, school tuition fees, online shopping, insurance, and many others.

Through TINBO's web-based portal, tinbo.ph that's accessible across Asia, Europe and United States, customers can pay for their bills using any MasterCard or Visa debit card or credit card, or via available payment channels activated in their respective locations.

Successful registration at tinbo.ph will activate a Smart Virtual Number (TINBO Number) for the user. The TINBO number serves as a SIM-less Virtual Smart Mobile Number which allows users to receive calls and texts from family and friends, as well as secured one-time PINs (OTPs) from the Philippines.

Bayad President and CEO, Lawrence Y. Ferrer shared “With PLDT Global, we share a collective vision in elevating the quality of living of our kababayans, as we proactively scale up our real time bills payment services, to provide efficient and accessible one-stop-shop payment solution for our Overseas Filipino Workers and residents. Our partnership aims to ignite borderless connectivity, and promote financial literacy and digital citizenship.”

PLDT President and CEO, Albert V. Villa-Real added “This collaboration with Bayad would help us in providing seamless service to Filipinos overseas. It also strengthens the TINBO platform and enables migrant Filipinos to easily make transactions and conveniently pay for Philippine bills, empowering them to care for their families in the Philippines and strengthening their ties to home, even from afar.”

For financial institutions like PLDT Global that are interested to be part of Bayad’s extensive channel network, you may send an email to partnerships@bayad.com. Bayad enables partners to attain nationwide presence and provides end-to-end support services for efficient payment and collection processing.

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