LPIXEL Partners with VNPT-IT to Provide Medical Imaging Diagnostic Support AI “EIRL” in Vietnam

LPIXEL Inc. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director and CEO: Tomihisa Kamada; hereinafter “LPIXEL”) has entered into a business cooperation agreement with VNPT Information Technology Company (Headquarters: Hanoi; hereinafter “VNPT-IT”) to market the “EIRL” series, LPIXEL’s medical imaging diagnostic support AI solution, in the ASEAN market.

VNPT-IT is the core IT subsidiary of Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT), the country’s largest telecommunications conglomerate.

This partnership builds upon the successful Proof of Concept (PoC) project for “EIRL” launched in September 2025 by LPIXEL and VNPT-IT in collaboration with Japan Telecommunications Engineering and Consulting Service (JTEC; Headquarters: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo; President: Toshiyuki Minami).

JTEC will continue to support the ongoing development and growth of this strategic alliance.

Through this partnership, EIRL’s AI-based medical image analysis functionality for radiology will be integrated into “VNPT RIS/PACS,” a cloud-based medical imaging management platform designed to meet stringent security requirements and international interoperability standards.

VNPT-IT has deployed this platform across more than 600 (*1) healthcare institutions throughout Vietnam.

This service will be delivered through Vietnam’s nationwide digital healthcare network.

By combining Japan’s advanced medical AI technology with Vietnam’s nationwide healthcare infrastructure, LPIXEL aims to accelerate its business expansion throughout the ASEAN region.

Furthermore, as the first milestone of this partnership, LPIXEL is pleased to announce that the full deployment of EIRL has been completed at more than 10 healthcare institutions in Vietnam, including Hospital of Post and Telecommunications, Hanoi (Bệnh viện Bưu Điện Hà Nội) (hereinafter “Hanoi Post Hospital”), and the system has officially commenced operations in clinical settings.

ASEAN Market – Background and Proof of Concept (PoC) Initiatives

The ASEAN region is currently undergoing a major transformation in disease profiles driven by rapid economic growth and urbanization.

While infectious and acute diseases were previously the leading causes of death, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, have increased significantly and now account for the majority of deaths in the region (*2).

As chronic diseases continue to rise, the importance of early detection has become increasingly critical, driving growing demand for healthcare services and making the shortage of healthcare professionals an even more urgent challenge (*3).

Under these circumstances, radiologists responsible for specialized diagnostic imaging are facing significant workloads, creating strong demand for AI-assisted diagnostic support solutions and workflow optimization technologies.

To address this challenge, LPIXEL and VNPT-IT have been conducting Proof of Concept (PoC) studies since September 2025 at more than 10 healthcare institutions in Vietnam, including Hanoi Post Hospital, by integrating EIRL with VNPT’s cloud-based PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) (*4).

Following the trial, Dr. An, Head of Radiology at Hanoi Post Hospital, praised the technology and commented that the EIRL series—particularly EIRL Chest Screening, which supports chest X-ray interpretation—provided clear clinical value and quickly gained the trust of frontline physicians.

Having successfully validated the effectiveness of the AI-assisted support system through these trials, LPIXEL and VNPT-IT have now advanced to a formal commercial partnership and official system deployment.

Integration Details and System Overview

Through this partnership, the AI-based medical image analysis capabilities of the EIRL series will be integrated into “VNPT RIS/PACS.”

The integrated system provides an automated workflow in which medical images designated for analysis are automatically transmitted from a hospital’s PACS to EIRL via VNPT’s DICOM Gateway. The AI analysis results are then returned to the PACS.

The AI analysis results are seamlessly displayed directly on the DICOM Viewer within the VNPT RIS/PACS environment used by physicians, enabling access to AI-supported information within their existing clinical workflow.

By aligning with existing physician workflows, this system supports more efficient diagnostic imaging processes and contributes to the delivery of safer, higher-quality healthcare.

Future Outlook

Leveraging this business partnership with VNPT-IT and the official deployment of EIRL at multiple healthcare institutions across Vietnam, LPIXEL will continue to accelerate the adoption of medical AI throughout the country.

Furthermore, the EIRL series has obtained medical device regulatory approvals across six key ASEAN markets: Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Singapore (*5).

To expand EIRL throughout the broader ASEAN region, with an initial focus on Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, LPIXEL is actively seeking distribution partners with strong local healthcare networks and capabilities in medical IT infrastructure, including PACS/RIS systems.

Companies interested in establishing strategic partnerships to address local healthcare challenges through medical AI are invited to contact LPIXEL’s Global Business Development Office via the inquiry form below.

Through collaboration with local partners, LPIXEL aims to establish AI-supported diagnostic imaging as a standard of care throughout ASEAN while contributing to the resolution of critical social challenges, including physician shortages and disparities in healthcare access.

Notes

1. As of August 2026.

2. Source: World Health Organization (WHO), “Global Health Estimates,” and reports from the WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia (SEARO).

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for approximately 62% of all deaths in the region.

3. Source: World Bank, World Development Indicators.

Number of physicians per 1,000 people: Vietnam: 0.83; Indonesia: 0.70; Thailand: 0.93; Philippines: 0.79; Japan: 2.61.

4. Reference: Press Release dated September 25, 2025:

“VNPT-IT, LPIXEL, and JTEC Launch Proof-of-Concept for Medical Image Diagnostic Support AI System ‘EIRL’ at Hanoi Hospital of Post and Communication in Vietnam”

https://lpixel.net/en/news/press-release/2025/9911/

5. Reference: Press Release dated April 16, 2026:

“LPIXEL’s ‘EIRL’ Medical Imaging AI Series Obtains Regulatory Approval in Six ASEAN Markets”

https://lpixel.net/en/news/press-release/2026/10051/

About VNPT Information Technology Company (VNPT-IT)

VNPT-IT is the core IT subsidiary driving the technology business of Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT), the nation’s largest telecommunications operator.

The company leads Vietnam’s digital transformation (DX) by combining advanced telecommunications network infrastructure with cutting-edge IT solutions.

In the healthcare IT sector, VNPT-IT has established a comprehensive digital healthcare ecosystem, providing IT solutions to healthcare institutions across Vietnam, including optimized diagnostic workflows, teleradiology, and remote medical imaging consultation services.

Company Name:
VNPT INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY COMPANY - BRANCH OF VIETNAM POSTS AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS GROUP

Address:
VNPT Tower, 57 Huynh Thuc Khang Str, Hanoi, Vietnam

Representative:
Dr. Pham Huy Hoang, General Director

Business Description:
Research and development (R&D), manufacturing, and sales of digital transformation products and services.

About JTEC

Japan Telecommunications Engineering and Consulting Service (JTEC) is a nonprofit organization established in 1978.

Recognizing the growing global demand for international cooperation in the telecommunications and broadcasting sectors, the Japanese government, together with related industries, took the initiative in establishing JTEC.

Website:
https://www.jtec.or.jp/

About LPIXEL Inc.

Established in 2014, LPIXEL is a leading provider of artificial intelligence-based image analysis technologies for the medical and life science industries.

Dedicated to improving the lives of clinicians and the health of patients, LPIXEL’s flagship series of Software as a Medical Device (SaMD) products, “EIRL,” supports clinicians in interpreting medical images, including radiological scans (X-ray, CT, and MRI) and colonoscopy images.

As of February 2026, EIRL has supported more than 16 million image analyses.

In addition to clinical solutions, LPIXEL accelerates research and development (R&D) in the life sciences by providing customized image analysis solutions to leading pharmaceutical and medical device companies.

These solutions address challenges throughout the drug development pipeline, from drug discovery research to manufacturing.

Website:
https://lpixel.net/en/

About EIRL – Medical Imaging Diagnostic Support AI Technology

“EIRL” is LPIXEL’s flagship series of AI image analysis software that supports clinicians in interpreting a wide range of medical images, from radiological scans (X-ray, CT, and MRI) to colonoscopy images.

By supporting more efficient and reliable interpretation of medical images, EIRL helps improve diagnostic confidence and reduce the burden on healthcare professionals.

EIRL has been deployed at more than 1,200 medical institutions in Japan, with more than 16 million clinical image analyses performed cumulatively as of February 2026.

Through AI-assisted image analysis, EIRL supports clinicians by helping reduce the risk of missing critical findings and enabling more efficient diagnostic workflows.

EIRL Product Website (for Healthcare Professionals):
https://eirl.ai/

Product Inquiries

LPIXEL Inc. Global Business Development Office
TEL: +81-3-6259-1713
Mail: ml-global@lpixel.net

Media Inquiries

LPIXEL Inc. Public Relations
TEL: +81-3-6259-1713
Email: pr@lpixel.net
 

Fresh Business Ventures Returns to Philippines as Private Wealth Interest Grows

 

Fresh Business Ventures Ltd is returning to the Philippines in October, with CEO Ray Leary set to visit Manila, Davao and Cebu amid growing interest from Filipino families and business owners in international wealth protection, succession planning and long-term financial structuring. The visit follows FBV’s growing engagement in the region since Leary’s first Philippines visit in 2025.

CEO Ray Leary to visit Manila, Davao and Cebu in October 2026

Fresh Business Ventures Ltd (FBV) is returning to the Philippines this October, following Chief Executive Officer Ray Leary’s visit last year, with this year’s programme expanding from one location to three key cities — Manila, Davao and Cebu.

Following growing engagement with Filipino families, business owners and professional advisers, Ray Leary will once again travel to the Philippines for a limited programme of private wealth briefings and confidential consultations.

The visit comes as interest grows among internationally minded families exploring the Isle of Man as a safe and strategic option for protecting the wealth they have built, planning for future generations and structuring their international affairs.

FBV will also host a virtual private wealth webinar on 16 September 2026, ahead of Ray’s October visit, giving families and professional advisers the opportunity to hear directly from him and explore how the Isle of Man may support their long-term wealth objectives.

“Families have worked hard to build their wealth. The important question is how they protect it, structure it and ultimately pass it on,” said Ray Leary. “I want to meet families personally, understand what they are trying to achieve and explore why the Isle of Man could form part of their long-term strategy.”

The October programme will focus on wealth protection, succession planning, international asset structuring, banking diversification and long-term family planning.

The Isle of Man offers a stable political and economic environment, strong regulatory oversight, an established legal framework and a sophisticated international financial services sector.

The October programme is by private invitation, with limited consultation availability in Manila, Davao and Cebu.

Private consultations

Those interested in meeting Ray Leary during his October visit to the Philippines, or joining one of the private wealth briefings, are invited to contact Joane Burawis directly:

Joane Burawis

Email: joane@fbv.co.im

About Fresh Business Ventures

Fresh Business Ventures Ltd is an Isle of Man-based international wealth strategy and business advisory company with more than 15 years of UK and international experience.

FBV supports entrepreneurs, families and businesses with wealth structuring, asset protection, succession planning, international business establishment, relocation planning and banking coordination, working alongside regulated professional partners.

FBV does not hold client funds and encourages clients to obtain independent legal and tax advice in all relevant jurisdictions.

Alsons Power expands Cebu retail electricity supply footprint with Makoto Metal deal

  

Alsons Power Group continues to strengthen its presence in Cebu’s retail electricity market following the addition of Japanese-affiliated Makoto Metal Technology Inc. (MMTI) to its growing customer portfolio.

Alsons Power Group continues to strengthen its presence in Cebu’s retail electricity market following the addition of Japanese-affiliated Makoto Metal Technology Inc. (MMTI) to its growing customer portfolio.

Through Alsons Power Supply Corporation (APSC), the company has recently closed a retail electricity supply agreement with MMTI’s manufacturing operations for its two (2) plants at the Mactan Export Processing Zone II (MEPZ II) in Lapu-Lapu City.

The agreement marks another milestone in APSC’s expansion beyond Mindanao and strengthens its growing presence among commercial and industrial customers in the Visayas.

“For a manufacturing company like Makoto Metal Technology, Inc., having a reliable, competitively priced, and flexible electricity supply is essential to sustaining our operations and supporting our continued growth. We see Alsons Power as a trusted partner that understands the unique requirements of the manufacturing industry and can provide the reliability, flexibility, and support we need as we expand our operations,” said Jon Romulo A. Montances, Admin and Support Manager, Makoto Metal Technology, Inc.

Under the Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA) framework, qualified electricity consumers such as MMTI can choose their electricity supplier based on factors including pricing, service reliability and supply arrangements.

“The competitive offer was an important factor in our decision. What ultimately gave us confidence in APSC, however, was their ability to clearly explain why we were experiencing the challenges we have with our incumbent supplier and provide a solution that could significantly improve our electricity costs moving forward,” Montances added.

MMTI manufactures precision metal components, die-cast parts, and optical products, and provides assembly services for various industries.

The partnership strengthens APSC’s position in Cebu, one of the country’s major manufacturing and commercial centers, as the company continues to serve businesses seeking competitive and customized electricity supply options.

“Cebu is an important market for us, particularly with its strong base of manufacturing and commercial customers. Partnering with MMTI is an important step in expanding Alsons Power’s presence in the Visayas and bringing our energy solutions to more businesses across the country,” Alsons Power Chief Executive Officer Antonio Miguel B. Alcantara said.

The MMTI agreement comes amid continued growth in APSC’s contestable customer portfolio. Currently, APSC serves nine contestable customers and sources electricity from various power facilities across the country.

APSC’s growing customers reflects increasing demand from commercial and industrial consumers for electricity supply arrangements that offer competitive rates, reliable service, and solutions aligned with their operational requirements.

APSC is the retail electricity supply arm of Alsons Power Group, serving commercial and industrial customers in the contestable electricity market. Alsons Power is the power generation business of the Alcantara Group.

Carziqo’s Growing City Footprint Points to Wider Potential in Autonomous Mobility

The autonomous mobility company is extending its presence across major U.S. markets as competition in driverless ride-hailing shifts from technology trials to commercial fleet operations.

Carziqo is emerging as an increasingly visible participant in the autonomous mobility industry as the company extends its reach across a growing number of American cities.

Founded in 2024, the company operates at the intersection of autonomous ride-hailing, intelligent fleet management and connected mobility. Its expanding geographic footprint reflects a broader industry transition: driverless transportation is gradually moving beyond limited testing environments and toward commercial services designed for everyday urban travel.

Carziqo has been developing its presence in markets including Los Angeles, Austin, New York, San Francisco, Phoenix, Atlanta, Dallas, Houston and Miami. Collectively, these cities provide the company with access to diverse transportation environments, from densely populated urban centers to sprawling metropolitan areas where residents depend heavily on private vehicles and ride-hailing services.

The expansion highlights Carziqo’s long-term potential, but it also places the company in an increasingly competitive market occupied by technology groups, automakers and mobility operators pursuing similar opportunities.

Cities Become the New Autonomous Mobility Battleground

The development of autonomous ride-hailing is no longer defined solely by whether a vehicle can operate without a human driver. The more significant commercial question is whether companies can manage hundreds or eventually thousands of autonomous vehicles safely, reliably and profitably across multiple cities.

That requires more than advanced driving technology.

Operators must predict passenger demand, position vehicles in the right locations, manage charging schedules and respond to changing traffic conditions. They must also maintain consistent service while working within regulatory frameworks that can vary substantially between cities and states.

Carziqo’s expansion strategy appears designed around this operational challenge. Rather than relying on a single market, the company is building experience across cities with different road networks, passenger habits and transportation needs.

Los Angeles offers a large but highly dispersed mobility market. New York presents greater density and more complex traffic conditions. Phoenix has become an important testing ground for autonomous transportation, while Austin has attracted a growing number of mobility and technology companies.

Miami and Houston add another set of commercial opportunities, including airport transportation, tourism, business travel and suburban mobility.

The differences between these cities could provide Carziqo with valuable operating data as it develops its fleet-management capabilities.

Intelligent Fleet Management Could Define the Winners

For autonomous ride-hailing companies, the vehicle itself is only one part of the business model.

The software used to coordinate vehicles may ultimately determine whether an autonomous fleet can operate efficiently. Artificial intelligence can analyze historical travel patterns, estimate future passenger demand and direct vehicles toward locations where ride requests are more likely to emerge.

A well-coordinated fleet can potentially reduce the amount of time vehicles spend traveling without passengers. It may also shorten waiting times and improve the use of charging and maintenance infrastructure.

Carziqo is seeking to build its mobility network around this combination of autonomous vehicles and intelligent fleet operations. Under such a model, vehicles function as connected components of a larger transportation system rather than as independent assets.

As the company enters additional markets, the amount and diversity of operational information available to its systems could increase. Data from commuting routes, airports, entertainment districts and residential areas may help improve vehicle positioning and route allocation.

That creates a potential network effect: geographic expansion produces more operational insight, which can support better fleet decisions and make future expansion more efficient.

Growth Potential Comes With Significant Challenges

The commercial potential of autonomous ride-hailing remains substantial, but the industry’s path toward large-scale adoption is far from straightforward.

Developing and operating autonomous fleets requires considerable investment in vehicles, sensors, computing systems, charging infrastructure, maintenance and remote operational support. Companies must also satisfy regulators and convince passengers that driverless transportation can be safe and dependable.

Public trust remains particularly important. A technical failure involving one vehicle can affect perceptions of an entire fleet or, in some cases, the broader autonomous mobility industry.

Local regulations create another challenge. Approval in one jurisdiction does not automatically provide access to another, and cities may impose different requirements concerning testing, passenger services, reporting and emergency response.

Carziqo’s ability to convert its expanding city footprint into a sustainable business will therefore depend on execution. The company will need to balance growth with safety, operating discipline and the infrastructure required to support each new market.

From Geographic Reach to Commercial Scale

Carziqo’s growing presence gives the company a foundation for broader development, but the next phase will involve turning individual city operations into a coordinated mobility network.

If the company can connect its markets through a common technology and fleet-management platform, it may be able to apply lessons learned in one city to operations elsewhere. Such capabilities could support faster deployment, better vehicle utilization and more consistent passenger experiences.

The opportunity may also extend beyond ride-hailing. Technology developed for autonomous passenger transportation could potentially support airport connections, business mobility, last-mile delivery and other on-demand services.

Carziqo remains a relatively young company in a sector dominated by well-funded competitors. Its expanding reach, however, indicates an ambition to participate in the industry on a broader scale.

The autonomous ride-hailing market is still developing, and its eventual leaders have not yet been determined. Success will depend not only on which companies enter the most cities, but on which can transform those locations into safe, efficient and commercially viable transportation networks.

For Carziqo, the growing list of cities represents both an opportunity and a test. Its potential is becoming more visible, but the company’s long-term position will ultimately be shaped by how effectively it translates geographic expansion into reliable real-world operations.

Pag-IBIG, PHILERGY German Solar Join Forces to Make Premium Solar More Accessible to Filipino Families

 

 New partnership gives millions of Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card holders exclusive access to special PHILERGY solar offers as electricity costs reach historic highs.

Pag-IBIG Fund and PHILERGY German Solar have officially joined forces to bring the benefits of solar energy closer to Filipino families through the Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card Program. The partnership was formally marked through a signing ceremony between Pag-IBIG Fund and PHILERGY German Solar last September 9, 2026, opening access for eligible Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card holders in NCR to exclusive discounts on selected PHILERGY solar packages and services.

More than a discount: helping Filipino families reduce one of their biggest monthly expenses

Electricity prices in the Philippines have climbed to historic levels, placing increasing pressure on household budgets. For many homeowners, electricity is no longer a small monthly expense, and solar energy is increasingly becoming a practical way to take control of that cost.

Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card holders will now have the opportunity to invest in solar at exclusive special rates with discounts of up to 16%, lowering the entry cost to a technology that can generate clean electricity and long-term savings for decades.

The initiative brings together two organizations with a shared objective: creating meaningful, long-term value for Filipino families. Pag-IBIG Fund's Loyalty Card program has already generated more than ₱1 billion in savings for its members through hundreds of partner establishments nationwide. The addition of solar extends those benefits toward an investment that can potentially reduce a household's electricity expenses year after year.

Award-winning German solar technology made more accessible

PHILERGY German Solar is known as the Philippines’ leading premium solar company, recognized as Solar Company of the Year Philippines in both 2024 and 2025, and further strengthening its international standing in 2026 by being awarded a Top Solar Component Supplier in APAC. The company combines high-performance solar technology with German engineering standards and comprehensive local consultation, installation, warranty and after-sales support.

“This partnership is about much more than offering a discount. It is about making a high-quality solar investment accessible to more Filipino families at exactly the time they need it most,” said PHILERGY German Solar Managing Partner Jochen Staudter. “Electricity costs have reached levels we have never seen before. Every kilowatt-hour a family can sustainably produce on its own is electricity it does not have to continue purchasing at rising utility rates. We are very proud to work with Pag-IBIG Fund to bring that opportunity to its members.”

From Loyalty Card savings to long-term energy savings

Solar introduces a new type of benefit for Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card holders: the opportunity to invest today and potentially save on electricity for decades.

A properly designed solar system can generate clean electricity directly from a home's rooftop during the day, reducing the amount of electricity that needs to be purchased from the grid. With solar technology designed for long operating lifetimes, the cumulative savings can significantly exceed the initial investment. It is this long-term impact that makes the Pag-IBIG Fund and PHILERGY partnership particularly timely.

A new benefit for Filipino homeowners: A way to fight rising electricity costs with solar

Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card holders interested in availing themselves of the exclusive PHILERGY offer may simply present their valid Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card at PHILERGY and follow the applicable program mechanics. Details regarding the participating PHILERGY solar packages, special prices, eligibility requirements and terms and conditions will be available through Pag-IBIG Fund and PHILERGY German Solar's official channels.

About PHILERGY German Solar

PHILERGY German Solar is one of the Philippines’ leading solar companies, combining German management, European engineering standards, and more than 20 years of global solar expertise. Backed by multiple gigawatts (GW) of installed solar capacity in Europe, PHILERGY delivers world-class solar technology for residential, commercial, and industrial projects across the Philippines. Pioneering the Philippine solar industry since 2011, PHILERGY has installed over 150,000 solar panels for more than 15,000 customers nationwide, making it one of the country’s highest-volume solar providers. Internationally recognized multiple times as “Solar Company of the Year Philippines” and awarded as a top solar component supplier in APAC, PHILERGY continues to set benchmarks in the Philippine solar industry. All installations include warranties of up to 30 years, free expert solar consultation, professional onsite analysis, and installation by highly trained teams led by German engineers. PHILERGY is also recognized as one of the country’s leaders in net metering installation volume. Offering warranties up to 10 times longer than many standard market offerings, PHILERGY German Solar delivers high-quality, reliable, and affordable solar energy solutions throughout the Philippines.

ASEAN Energy Business Forum (AEBF) 2026 to Convene Regional Energy Leaders in Manila

Manila, Philippines – The ASEAN Energy Business Forum (AEBF) 2026, organized by the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE), hosted by the Department of Energy (DOE) of the Philippines, and co-organized by Leverage International (Consultants) Inc., will bring together policymakers, business leaders, investors, researchers, financial institutions, and key energy stakeholders from across ASEAN and beyond to advance regional cooperation and accelerate the transition toward a sustainable energy future.

Scheduled to take place from 5–9 October 2026 at the Philippine International Convention Center, Metro Manila, Philippines, AEBF 2026 will serve as a premier platform for dialogue, collaboration, and investment in the region's evolving energy landscape.

ASEAN Energy Business Forum (AEBF) is one of the notable flagship projects of the ASEAN Centre for Energy. It is an annual conference and exhibition that promotes and discusses the development of the energy sector in ASEAN through regional cooperation.

The business forum aims to enhance public-private engagement in the energy sector by facilitating information exchange, strengthening stakeholder networks, and enhancing project cooperation among policymakers, business leaders, researchers, financial institutions, associations, and other key stakeholders from ASEAN and beyond.

AEBF 2026 will feature a comprehensive programme comprising high-level plenary sessions, strategic dialogues, business matching opportunities, an international   exhibition, networking events, and discussions on key energy priorities, including renewable energy, energy security, decarbonization, emerging technologies, sustainable financing, and regional energy integration.

The forum will provide participants with valuable opportunities to exchange insights, foster strategic partnerships, explore investment opportunities, and contribute to shaping ASEAN's energy future through meaningful public-private collaboration.

To register as a delegate, please visit:www.asean-aebf.com/AEBF-26-registration

For more information about AEBF 2026, please visit:www.asean-aebf.com

For inquiries, please contact the AEBF 2026 Secretariat at leverage@leverageinternational.com.

TradingPRO Secures BAPPEBTI Regulatory Licence in Indonesia

 

 TradingPRO's Indonesian entity, PT Trading Pro Internasional Berjangka, has received its official regulatory licence from BAPPEBTI, Indonesia's Commodity Futures Trading Regulatory Agency, marking a significant step in the broker's Southeast Asian expansion.

TradingPRO has announced that its Indonesian entity, PT Trading Pro Internasional Berjangka, has been granted a regulatory licence by Badan Pengawas Perdagangan Berjangka Komoditi (BAPPEBTI) — the government agency responsible for supervising futures, forex, and commodity trading activity in Indonesia.

The licence confirms PT Trading Pro Internasional Berjangka's authorisation to operate in Indonesia's regulated financial market, in full compliance with Indonesian Law No. 32 of 1997 as amended by Law No. 10 of 2011 on Commodity Futures Trading.

BAPPEBTI operates under the Indonesian Ministry of Trade and is responsible for ensuring that market participants meet the country's standards for financial integrity, risk management, and client protection. For Indonesian traders, a BAPPEBTI licence provides the assurance that their chosen broker operates within a framework of formal regulatory oversight — including the separation of client funds and adherence to established conduct standards.

For TradingPRO, this licence represents a natural extension of the group's commitment to operating within regulated frameworks across every market it serves. The broker is already regulated by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) of South Africa under FSP No. 49624, and by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) of Mauritius under licence number GB23202513. The BAPPEBTI licence adds a third layer of regulated oversight, specifically for its Indonesian operations.

Indonesia is one of Southeast Asia's largest and fastest-growing retail trading markets, with a population exceeding 270 million and a growing base of active investors. PT Trading Pro Internasional Berjangka's licenced status positions TradingPRO to serve Indonesian clients with the same standard of regulated infrastructure it provides across its global operations.

Sign up here to start your account today!

TradingPRO extended its gratitude to BAPPEBTI and its legal team for their role in facilitating the licensing process.

For more information, visit here.

Stay Connected with TradingPRO:

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About Trading PRO
TradingPRO is a globally recognized Forex broker regulated by the FSCA and FSC, committed to empowering traders with secure access to global markets, institutional-grade tools, and a client-first approach built on transparency and education. The company offers a wide range of instruments including Forex, metals, commodities, indices, and crypto CFDs, combined with ultra-tight spreads, rapid execution, and multilingual support across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

With platforms such as MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, a mobile trading app, and API access for professionals, TradingPRO delivers an intuitive trading experience for both beginners and advanced traders. Its Telegram ecosystem provides real-time signals, education, and market updates, while value-added benefits like deposit bonuses and cashback programs support trader growth. Above all, TradingPRO prioritizes safety and compliance, ensuring a trusted and regulation-backed trading journey.

9th Hospitality Philippines Conference (HPC2026) Concludes with Resounding Success, Setting the Blueprint for the Future of Philippine Hospitality

 

 MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Hospitality Asia Event Series has successfully concluded the 9th Hospitality Philippines Conference (#HPC2026), held on September 9–10, 2026, at the Marriott Manila. As the region’s premier two-day leadership assembly, the landmark event brought together the nation’s foremost asset owners, operators, developers, investors, and tech visionaries to address a pivotal country theme: "What Comes After Growth: Hospitality’s Next Test in the Philippines."

Aligned with the overarching 2026 Hospitality Asia regional mandate, “Leading Hospitality Forward: Investing in Design, Driving Results,” HPC2026 delivered unparalleled insights, high-level networking, and actionable strategies aimed at navigating the evolving market landscape beyond rapid growth.

Unprecedented Engagement and High-Impact Attendance

The 2026 edition saw exceptional engagement across both days, cementing its position as the ultimate gathering for decision-makers in the Philippine hospitality ecosystem. The event convened 125 expert speakers and 54 leading event sponsors and partners showcasing cutting-edge solutions. Over the course of the two-day assembly, the conference welcomed 484 actual unique event attendees, comprising top-tier C-level executives, developers, hotel general managers, and government representatives. Daily participation remained consistently strong, with 306 attendees on Day 1 and 378 attendees on Day 2, reflecting sustained momentum throughout the conference.

Summit Highlights: Navigating Investment, Design, Revenue, and Travel 

DAY 1: Investment & Design

The Hotel Investment Summit featured industry leaders engaging in robust discussions on capital deployment, asset optimization, emerging destination markets across the archipelago, and sustainable long-term yields. Panelists highlighted the transition from rapid expansion to value creation and risk mitigation in a competitive landscape.

"This is a testament of the growth of the industry that we have in the Philippines. It’s no longer just Manila that’s discussed, but also in other parts of the Philippines who want to know how the hotel industry will be in the next five years. So this is a great learning platform for all different aspects of the hospitality industry, as well as how we can help each other in the growth."

— Christine Angela Sevilla, Senior Director, Development, South East Asia Pacific, Radisson Hotel Group

Simultaneously, the Hotel Design Summit brought design pioneers and architects together to showcase master planning strategies that seamlessly blend modern luxury with authentic Filipino cultural heritage, emphasizing climate-resilient architecture, wellness-centric hospitality environments, and space optimization to drive operational efficiency.

"My session is on tropical intelligence and smart design in the most valuable areas in the Philippines. I want people to see that despite the presence of developments, development is not always bad as long as you're not just tapping into the environment, but you're improving the environment. A good development is able to enhance unique benefits, allowing people to experience things that they have never experienced before and through dialogues like here at HPC 2026, allows us to care more for tropical intelligence and the beautiful islands of the Philippines."

— German Paulo de Mesa, Partner, Director for Design and Innovations, Palafox

DAY 2: Revenue & Technology

The second day opened with an inspiring Cultural Performance sponsored by the Tourism Promotions Board, celebrating the rich heritage and warmth of Filipino hospitality. Following the opening, the Hotel Revenue Summit brought together revenue strategists and commercial leaders to delve into advanced dynamic pricing models, direct booking strategies, customer acquisition economics, and total revenue management to maximize profitability.

"My takeaway from the summit is how to build a strong brand, being able to offer experiences, things that make your brand and OTA reliance. It's time to take control of your guests and be able to bring back that human connection, that curated experience, and the perfect stay in the hospitality industry."

— Nicolas Jason Cotterman, Sales Development Representative, Profitroom

Concurrently, the Travel Byte Summit explored the intersection of artificial intelligence, guest personalization platforms, smart hotel technology, and digital transformation, linking technological adoption directly to operational excellence and inclusive tourism growth.

"This is a good opportunity to bring together people from diverse backgrounds and different types of operations. I wish that we can learn from each other, see how we can use the learnings in our operations and make sure that we consider that tourism is not just for me. It’s really for everyone else, making sure that we are able to share the rewards or incentives of tourism."

— Asec. Ma. Christina Aquino, Assistant Secretary, Tourism Regulation and Coordination (TRC), Department of Tourism

Exhibition, Networking, and Strategic Partnerships

Beyond the stage discussions, the bustling exhibition floor served as a focal point for collaboration. Attendees interacted with elite partners and sponsors showcasing state-of-the-art products, green tech solutions, and service innovations. Structured networking sessions and informal exchanges fostered critical business connections, paving the way for upcoming hotel developments and strategic alliances across the country.

"Well, I think many people don't really know about the Philippines. It's always nice to do this kind of event to bring awareness about the culture and about the people. I'm sure that with all those islands and all those places, the Philippines will be able to bring much more tourism. What is important in the hospitality industry is not only about selling a product; there are people behind it. So we have to know who the people behind it are because we are not only using a product, but the products operate with people as well. So it's a dynamic between the people who are creating the product and the technology."

— Philippe Raunet, VP Overseas Partnership, Tripla

Looking Ahead: Celebrating 10 Years in 2027

The event concluded on a high note of excitement as organizers officially announced the upcoming milestone 10th Anniversary of the Hospitality Philippines Conference in 2027 (#HPC2027). As the conference prepares to celebrate a decade of shaping the national hospitality landscape, organizers express their deepest gratitude to all speakers, sponsors, attendees, and partners for making HPC2026 a monumental success.

For detailed summit takeaways and early registration details for HPC2027, please visit Hospitality Asia Event Series

About Hospitality Asia
The Hospitality Asia Event Series is a leading platform for senior leaders across the region’s hospitality and tourism sectors. It is known for bringing together key decision-makers and industry innovators while creating strong opportunities for networking, knowledge exchange, and strategic collaboration.

The series features seven flagship events across Asia, including the Hospitality Indonesia Conference (HIC), the Hospitality Vietnam Conference (HVC), the Hospitality Thailand Conference (HTC), the Hospitality South Korea Conference (HSKC), the Hospitality Malaysia Conference (HMC), the Hospitality Philippines Conference (HPC) and the Hospitality Japan Conference (HJC). These events attract a high-level and diverse audience from across the region. Hospitality Asia is distinguished by its balanced engagement of both C-level executives and senior professionals such as Vice Presidents, General Managers and Directors who manage contracts, negotiations and daily operations.

Supported by regional advisors who provide real-time market insights, the content focuses on practical strategies that enable participants to drive business growth. The series is guided by four summits that represent the main drivers of industry success. These include the Hotel Investment Summit Asia #HISA, the Hotel Design Summit Asia #HDSA, the Hotel Revenue Summit Asia #HRSA and the Travel Byte Summit Asia #TBSA. Each summit is delivered with a localized approach to ensure relevance and meaningful engagement with the region’s most important opportunities.
To learn more about Hospitality Asia, please visit our website at www.hospitality-asia.com.

Meet Sparkles.PH: The Filipino Brand Making Gold Investing More Accessible

 

Jewelry isn’t just an accessory, it can also be an asset. Sparkles.PH wants to shift the mindset that real gold is something you only buy later in life, showing Filipinos that investing can start with something they can wear, enjoy, and keep for years.

For many Filipinos, owning real gold has always felt like something to achieve later in life.

Sparkles.PH is changing that by making authentic 18K gold more accessible and encouraging

people to see jewelry not just as something beautiful to wear, but as a wearable investment.

Founded by entrepreneur Ryza Razo, Sparkles.PH was built on the belief that everyone

deserves the opportunity to own genuine gold, no matter where they are in their financial

journey. “We want to make gold ownership more accessible to Filipinos and show that investing

can start with something you can actually wear and enjoy,” said Ryza Razo, Founder of

Sparkles.PH.

With pieces starting at just ₱810, Sparkles.PH makes it easier for more Filipinos to begin

owning real gold without needing a large upfront budget. It's a simple way to start building an

asset you can wear every day and keep for years to come.

Ryza saw an opportunity to combine style with financial wellness by offering jewelry that not

only looks good but also holds lasting value. This vision has resonated with thousands of

customers and has helped Sparkles.PH grow into one of the country's emerging jewelry

e-commerce brands.

A major milestone came when Cebuana Lhuillier invested in Sparkles.PH, recognizing the

company's potential to make authentic, pawnable 18K gold more accessible to Filipinos

nationwide. The partnership gives the brand additional resources and expertise to continue

expanding its mission.

Today, Sparkles.PH believes that investing doesn't always have to start with stocks, mutual

funds, or real estate. Sometimes, it starts with a single piece of real gold, something you can

wear, enjoy, and keep as part of your financial future.

As more Filipinos become intentional about spending and saving, Sparkles.PH hopes to inspire

a new mindset: jewelry isn't just an accessory, it can also be an asset.

After all, some of the best investments are the ones you get to wear every day.

Explore authentic 18K gold jewelry at www.sparkles.ph.  

 

Carziqo Brings CM-EX Driverless Ride-Hailing Series to Houston

  

**The autonomous mobility company is expanding its US operations as it explores how intelligent fleet systems can respond to Houston’s complex transportation needs.**

**HOUSTON —** Autonomous mobility company Carziqo has introduced its CM-EX driverless ride-hailing series in Houston, expanding its presence in the United States and adding another major metropolitan area to its developing mobility network.

The launch places the CM-EX in one of the country’s largest and most geographically dispersed cities. Houston’s extensive highway network, busy commercial districts, residential communities, airports, medical centers, and suburban corridors present a demanding environment for any large-scale ride-hailing operation.

According to Carziqo, the CM-EX series will be deployed progressively, with vehicles assigned to selected routes and service areas based on passenger demand, trip distance, traffic conditions, and fleet availability.

Service coverage is expected to evolve as Carziqo collects operational data and evaluates demand across different parts of the city.

## Why Houston Matters

Houston presents both opportunities and challenges for autonomous ride-hailing providers.

Unlike cities where transportation demand is concentrated within a compact urban center, Houston’s travel patterns extend across a broad metropolitan area. Daily journeys frequently connect downtown offices, residential neighborhoods, airports, shopping districts, medical facilities, and suburban communities.

That scale makes vehicle allocation especially important. A fleet may have enough vehicles overall but still struggle to meet demand if those vehicles are positioned in the wrong locations.

Carziqo said its Houston operations will use demand analysis, intelligent dispatch, route coordination, and real-time fleet monitoring to determine where vehicles should operate. The system is intended to reduce unnecessary empty travel while improving the likelihood that vehicles are available in areas experiencing higher passenger demand.

The company’s approach reflects a wider trend within the autonomous mobility industry: greater attention is being placed on the systems surrounding the vehicle, rather than on self-driving technology alone.

## CM-EX Enters a Real-World Operating Environment

The CM-EX is positioned as an urban ride-hailing series within Carziqo’s broader vehicle portfolio. The company develops different vehicle series for different routes, operating environments, and mobility requirements.

In Houston, the CM-EX will be used to examine how an autonomous fleet can respond to varying journey lengths and changing demand throughout the day.

A vehicle serving a shorter urban route may face different operational requirements from one assigned to longer trips between residential and commercial districts. Instead of treating every journey in the same way, Carziqo plans to coordinate vehicle assignments according to route characteristics and service conditions.

This kind of fleet management will be central to the Houston rollout. The practical success of autonomous ride-hailing depends not only on whether a vehicle can navigate a route, but also on whether an operator can maintain availability, coordinate charging or servicing, monitor performance, and respond when travel conditions change.

## From Technology Demonstrations to Daily Operations

For years, much of the public discussion around autonomous vehicles has focused on technical milestones. The industry is now increasingly being measured by a more practical question: Can autonomous fleets provide consistent transportation services in real urban environments?

Operating a driverless ride-hailing network requires several interconnected systems. Vehicles must be monitored, routes must be assessed, passenger requests must be matched with available capacity, and operational teams must be prepared to manage unexpected conditions.

Carziqo’s Houston expansion suggests that the company is moving toward this operational phase, where fleet coordination and service performance become as important as the vehicles themselves.

The company said data gathered from the CM-EX rollout will be used to refine dispatch decisions, route planning, vehicle positioning, and future service coverage.

As with other emerging autonomous transportation services, expansion is expected to be gradual. Availability may vary by area and may be affected by vehicle deployment, route readiness, local conditions, and passenger demand.

## A Growing Market for Autonomous Transportation

Houston has attracted increasing interest from transportation and technology companies because of its population, economic activity, and dependence on road-based mobility.

The city’s size also provides an opportunity to evaluate whether autonomous ride-hailing can operate effectively across different types of communities rather than within a single, tightly controlled district.

For passengers, the potential benefits include additional transportation choices and improved service availability in areas where conventional ride-hailing supply may fluctuate. For operators, autonomous fleets may offer new ways to coordinate vehicles and respond to demand more consistently.

Those possibilities, however, depend on reliable operations and public confidence. Safety, service transparency, local compliance, vehicle maintenance, and passenger support will remain important as autonomous fleets become more visible on public roads.

Carziqo has described the CM-EX launch as part of a broader effort to build a connected autonomous mobility ecosystem combining vehicles, intelligent dispatch, fleet monitoring, and operational data.

Houston will provide a significant test of that model.

The city’s varied travel patterns will allow the company to observe how the CM-EX performs across different distances, service periods, and operating conditions. Those findings could influence how Carziqo develops its fleet strategy in Houston and other US markets.

The arrival of the CM-EX does not mean that autonomous transportation will transform Houston overnight. Instead, it represents another step in the gradual transition from limited autonomous vehicle projects toward structured, technology-supported mobility services.

As the rollout progresses, the key measure will be whether Carziqo can turn its autonomous driving and fleet-management systems into a service that is consistent, practical, and responsive to the transportation needs of the communities it intends to serve.