Talent Show in Ilocos Sur Puts Child Rights Message Center Stage

 

 SAN JUAN, Ilocos Sur — The Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST) held the second leg of the ANNAKKO Talent Show 2026 in San Juan, Ilocos Sur, part of a year-long program working to prevent child labor in farming communities. The event brought together 20 young performers from public elementary and high schools across the area.

ANNAKKO is ASSIST’s flagship program that directly addresses the persistent issue of child labor in small-scale farming communities, where families often rely on unpaid labor from household members, including children, to keep farms running. The program distinguishes this from child work—light, age-appropriate tasks that support a child’s development without compromising their health, safety, or education.

In contrast, child labor deprives children of their childhood, interferes with their ability to attend regular school, and is mentally, physically, socially, or morally harmful- risks that are particularly prevalent in agricultural and informal settings.

Guided by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which upholds every child’s right to education, rest, play, and protection from exploitative labor, ANNAKKO works directly with farming communities to counter these vulnerabilities and safeguard children's fundamental rights. This core mission drives the program’s community-centered approach.

"Our children are our future," said Francis Macatulad, ASSIST's Director for Business Development. "As the leaders of tomorrow, children deserve the opportunities to learn, play and experience childhood away from the demands and hazards of child labor. ANNAKKO ('My children' in Ilocano) was designed to raise awareness among the youth on children's rights and the importance of education."

To translate these principles into action, the Talent Show was launched as one of several activities under ANNAKKO Year 3: Our Children, Our Future, launched in November 2025. Anchored in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, the program aims to reach 1,500 children, 500 parents, and 100 educators by strengthening the support systems around children — family, school, and community — through activities that include a Children's Rights Parade, digital literacy sessions, poster-making contests, summer leadership camps, and the Talent Show series.

The event, supported by Rotaract Club of Magsingal North Ilocos Sur, Trans-Manila, Inc., and Universal Leaf Philippines, Inc., opened with an orientation on child labor, grounding the day in ANNAKKO's core message: every child has the right to learn, grow, and pursue their ambitions in an environment that protects rather than exploits them.

Talent show winners across the Elementary and High School divisions were awarded plaques and cash prizes. Families, teachers, classmates, and school communities filled the venue in support of the performers throughout the event.

While events like the talent show foster immediate community engagement, they form part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at long-term empowerment and regional growth.

"The program also organizes various enjoyable but empowering activities that build their knowledge and skills, such as leadership training, advocacy campaign building, disaster resiliency games, summer camps, self-defense classes, talent shows, and art competitions," Macatulad added. "ASSIST is proud to uphold children's rights and contribute to child labor protection among small-holder farming communities in Region 1, and we hope to expand our impact to other parts of the Philippines."

Programs like ANNAKKO run on partners willing to invest in children's futures. Organizations interested in partnering with ASSIST can learn more about partnership opportunities https://bit.ly/PartnerForProgress

About Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST)
ASSIST (Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation) is a self-sustaining pan-Asian NGO working at the intersection of social impact and sustainable transformation. True to its role as a Partner for Progress, ASSIST collaborates with corporate and institutional funders to deliver co-created initiatives as well as award-winning flagship programs that convert social investments into lasting local capacity. Explore our work and partner with us: www.assistasia.org

Payoneer in the Philippines: Cross-Border Payments Become Critical as Local Businesses Go Global

 

 The press release explains how Payoneer supports Philippine businesses, freelancers, BPOs, and ecommerce companies managing international payments. It covers currency conversion, bank transfers, withdrawals, account verification, customer support, B2B payment methods, and PayPal vs. Payoneer considerations.

Payoneer in the Philippines: Cross-Border Payments Become Critical as Local Businesses Go Global

The Philippines has become an important hub for businesses serving customers around the world. From outsourcing and IT services to freelancing, ecommerce, and professional services, Philippine businesses increasingly generate revenue from international markets.

But winning a global client is only part of the equation. Businesses also need reliable ways to receive payments, manage currencies, pay international partners, and maintain control over their cash flow.

This is making cross-border payments an increasingly important part of the growth strategy for Philippine businesses.

Platforms such as Payoneer provide businesses and professionals with tools designed to help manage international payments and operate across markets.

Why Payoneer in the Philippines Matters

Philippine businesses have access to a growing global customer base. A technology company can provide services to clients in the United States. A BPO or outsourcing agency can manage operations for companies in Australia or Europe. A freelancer can work directly with clients across multiple countries.

An ecommerce seller can reach customers outside the Philippines. These opportunities create demand for reliable B2B payment methods and international payment infrastructure.

The right payment setup can help businesses manage international revenue without creating unnecessary operational complexity.

Traditional International Transfers Can Create Friction

Traditional bank transfers remain an option for many businesses receiving money from overseas.

However, international transactions can involve multiple steps and intermediaries.

Businesses may encounter:

• Additional transfer fees
• Foreign exchange costs
• Longer settlement times
• Complicated payment instructions
• Manual reconciliation
• Limited payment visibility
• These challenges may be manageable for occasional transactions.

They can become more significant when a company receives international payments regularly.

How Long Does a Payoneer to Bank Transfer Take?

One common question among Philippine users is Payoneer to bank transfer time. The actual processing time can depend on several factors, including the receiving bank, currency, transaction details, compliance checks, and other processing requirements.

Businesses should therefore consider transfer timing when planning cash flow. Checking the expected processing information available within the Payoneer account can also help users understand when funds are expected to arrive.

Managing USD to PHP With Payoneer

Currency conversion is another important consideration for Philippine businesses receiving international revenue.

A business may receive USD from a US customer but have most of its operating expenses in Philippine pesos.

This creates an important planning question around USD to PHP Payoneer conversion.

Understanding the applicable exchange rate and conversion costs can help businesses estimate how much international revenue may ultimately be available in PHP.

This can be particularly important for:

• Freelancers
• BPO companies
• Digital agencies
• IT service providers
• Ecommerce businesses
• Exporters

Currency management becomes even more important as international transaction volumes increase.

Payoneer for Philippine Freelancers and Businesses

The Philippines has a large community of professionals providing services to international customers.

Freelancers may work in:

• Software development
• Graphic design
• Digital marketing
• Virtual assistance
• Content creation
• Consulting
• Customer support

For these professionals, international payments are not an occasional requirement. They can be a fundamental part of their business model. A platform that supports international payments can therefore become an important part of running a freelance business.

B2B Payment Methods for Global Companies

Businesses working internationally have several potential B2B payment methods available to them. These can include traditional bank transfers, payment platforms, digital wallets, and other financial services.

The appropriate option depends on factors such as:

• Transaction volume
• Countries involved
• Currencies required
• Payment frequency
• Fees
• Settlement times
• Accounting requirements

For a growing Philippine company, selecting a scalable payment method can be just as important as selecting the right banking relationship.

Outsourcing Businesses Face an Even Larger Challenge

For BPOs and outsourcing companies, payment complexity can increase with scale.

An agency may receive payments from several international clients while simultaneously managing payroll, contractors, suppliers, and operating expenses.

This can create a complex financial workflow.

Some companies may also use a payroll app Philippines businesses rely on for local workforce management while using a separate platform for international client payments.

Connecting these processes efficiently can help businesses reduce manual work and improve financial visibility.

How to Withdraw Money From Payoneer in the Philippines

Another common question for local users is how to withdraw money from Payoneer in the Philippines. Available withdrawal options can depend on the user's account, currency, eligibility, and supported banking arrangements.

Users should check the withdrawal options available directly within their Payoneer account before initiating a transaction. This is particularly important for businesses that need to plan when international revenue will become available for local operating expenses.

How to Check if a Payoneer Account Is Verified

Account verification is another important consideration for new users. People searching for how to check if Payoneer account is verified can review their account status and any outstanding verification requirements through their Payoneer account.

Additional information or documentation may sometimes be required before particular features become available. Completing verification requirements early can help reduce potential disruption when a business begins receiving international payments.

PayPal vs Payoneer Philippines: What Should Businesses Consider?

Another common search among Philippine users is PayPal vs Payoneer Philippines. Both platforms can serve international payment needs, but their features, supported use cases, fees, and withdrawal options can differ.

Businesses should compare providers based on their specific requirements rather than choosing solely on brand familiarity.

Important factors to consider include:

Receiving payments

How international customers can pay you

Currency support

Which currencies you need to receive and manage

Withdrawals

Available options for accessing local funds

Fees

Transaction, withdrawal, and currency conversion costs

Business use

Whether the platform fits your transaction volume

Support

Available customer service and assistance

Scalability

Whether the solution can support future growth

For a Philippine freelancer, the best option may differ from the needs of an outsourcing company receiving large recurring B2B payments.

What Should Philippine Businesses Look for in a Payment Platform?

There is no single payment solution that works for every business. Before choosing an international payment provider, companies should consider:

• Supported currencies
• Receiving options
• International payment capabilities
• Currency conversion
• Transfer fees
• Payment processing times
• Security and compliance
• Accounting integrations
• Scalability

The payment solution should fit the company's current needs while leaving room for future international growth.

Cross-Border Payments Are Becoming Business Infrastructure

International payments were once primarily viewed as a banking function. Today, they are increasingly connected to the wider digital business ecosystem. Businesses want to manage customers, invoices, payments, currencies, and accounting with fewer disconnected processes.

This shift is particularly relevant to Philippine companies serving international markets. As transaction volumes grow, payment infrastructure can directly affect operational efficiency and cash-flow management.

The Future of Global Payments for Philippine Businesses

Cross-border commerce continues to evolve. Several developments are shaping international payments:

Greater digitalization

Businesses increasingly expect payments to fit naturally into their existing digital workflows.

More multi-currency activity

Companies are working with customers, suppliers, and contractors across more markets.

Greater demand for transparency

Businesses want clearer visibility into fees, exchange rates, and payment status.

More integrated financial operations

Payments are increasingly connected with accounting, invoicing, payroll, and other business systems.

These changes are encouraging businesses to think about payments as more than simply moving money from one account to another.

Supporting the Philippines' Global Business Ambition

The next stage of growth for many Philippine businesses may come from serving more customers around the world.

As companies expand internationally, they need more than access to overseas customers. They need practical financial infrastructure to receive revenue, manage currencies, pay partners, and maintain visibility over their cash flow.

Payoneer provides a platform designed to support businesses and professionals operating across borders.

For Philippine businesses participating in the global economy, having the right payment infrastructure can help turn international opportunities into sustainable, repeatable growth.

Female Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Donna Borres-Eramis Opens Independent Practice in Cebu City

 The new Cebu clinic combines Dr. Borres-Eramis' experience in Manila with personalized treatment planning, physician-led care, and surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures under one practice.

D'Sculpt Face & Body Center, a new clinic specializing in advanced aesthetic medicine and cosmetic surgery, has officially opened in Cebu City under the leadership of Dr. Donna Borres Eramis, a board-certified cosmetic surgeon who has spent years honing her craft in Manila's leading aesthetic practices.

Dr. Donna completed her training and graduated from the Philippine Academy of Aesthetic Surgery (PAAS) and passed the board exam given by the Philippine Federation of Cosmetic Surgeons (PFCS). She is one of very few board-certified female cosmetic surgeons practicing in Cebu City, a distinction earned through years of rigorous surgical training, peer-reviewed assessment, and adherence to the highest ethical standards in the field.

A Cebuana Surgeon Comes Home

A Cebu native, Dr. Donna built D'Sculpt from the ground up after recognizing a gap in her hometown: Cebuanos seeking credentialed cosmetic surgery often had no choice but to fly to Metro Manila. With D'Sculpt, she brings the same caliber of care, structured treatment planning, and safety protocols she developed throughout her Manila career directly to the Visayan market.

"I took everything I learned from the best clinics in Manila and built something specifically for my community," says Dr. Donna. "Cebuanos deserve access to safe, board-certified cosmetic surgery without having to leave the city."

A Rare Credential in a Male-Dominated field

Cosmetic surgery in the Philippines remains overwhelmingly male-led. Dr. Donna is among the very few women in Cebu City who hold board certification in cosmetic surgery, making D'Sculpt a first-of-its-kind practice in the region. For the growing number of patients who seek the trust, comfort, and shared understanding that comes with a female surgeon, this represents a meaningful new option.

A Different Approach to Aesthetic Care

D'Sculpt operates on a program-based model rather than a menu of isolated treatments. Each patient undergoes a comprehensive consultation where their skin, facial structure, body, and wellness goals are assessed together. From there, Dr. Donna and her team design structured care plans that sequence treatments for optimal, natural-looking results.

The clinic offers both non-surgical aesthetic treatments (skin rejuvenation, injectables, laser, body contouring) and cosmetic surgical procedures, all under one roof with consistent medical oversight.

Rooted in Cebu, refined in Manila

While Dr. Donna continues to practice in Manila, D'Sculpt represents her personal investment in elevating the standard of cosmetic care in her home region. The clinic incorporates best practices from years of experience across multiple high-volume aesthetic settings, adapted for the needs of the Cebuano market.

"This isn't a satellite office or a franchise. D'Sculpt is mine. It's everything I've learned, built specifically for the community I come from," she adds.

D'Sculpt Face & Body Center is now accepting consultations at its Cebu City location.

About D'Sculpt Face & Body Center

D'Sculpt Face & Body Center is an aesthetic medicine and cosmetic surgery clinic in Cebu City founded by board-certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Donna Borres-Eramis. The clinic offers surgical and non-surgical aesthetic treatments through personalized, medically guided treatment programs with an emphasis on patient safety, appropriate treatment planning, and natural-looking results.

20 Everyday Filipinos Honored for Extraordinary Acts of Courage Through “Hero For All”

Twenty ordinary Filipinos whose courage, compassion, and selflessness have made a meaningful difference in the lives of others are being recognized through “Hero For All: Honoring Stories of the Everyday Filipino,” a nationwide initiative dedicated to celebrating the unsung heroes whose stories deserve to be heard.

First announced on the Day of Valor April 9, 2026, Hero For All shines a light on Filipinos who choose to help others despite their own circumstances—demonstrating that heroism can be found in everyday people who simply choose to do what is right when it matters most.

The initiative is supported by Casino Plus, one of the country’s leading responsible digital entertainment platforms licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), and championed by the AR Foundation, with Alden Richards serving as Hero For All Lead Advocate.

Driven by the belief that positive experiences can create meaningful impact, the initiative reflects the values of Empowered Courage and Integrity by recognizing individuals whose actions uplift others and helping sustain the communities connected to their stories.

Recognizing Heroes, Strengthening Communities

Each of the 20 honorees will receive a commemorative trophy alongside a total award of ₱1,000,000: ₱500,000 awarded directly to the recognized hero in recognition of their personal sacrifice and bravery, and ₱500,000 provided to their partner community organization to help support and scale their local advocacy efforts.

The initiative was inspired by living examples of heroism such as Rhodora Alcaraz-Toñacao, a 28-year-old overseas Filipino worker from San Pablo City, Laguna, who was named the campaign’s first awardee.

On her first day at work in Hong Kong on November 26, 2025, Toñacao shielded her employer’s three-month-old infant with her own body through thick smoke on the 13th floor, wrapping the baby in a bedsheet until rescuers reached them.

“Hindi ko inaakala na may kakayanan pala akong tumulong pagdating sa ganung tragedy. Nasa puso ko po talaga na, ikaw ’to. Matapang ka, kaya mong tumulong,” she had said.

Her story embodies the spirit of Hero For All: that heroism does not always come from people seeking recognition, but from ordinary Filipinos who choose to act with courage and compassion when someone needs help.

“We want to normalize how people see heroes—today, they are everyday Filipinos who, despite their own struggles, still choose to help others,” said Alden Richards, Founder of the AR Foundation and Hero For All Lead Advocate. “Rhodora’s courage is a powerful reminder of the inherent goodness in our countrymen that deserves to be celebrated.”

Alden emphasized that Hero For All looks beyond the scale of an individual act and instead recognizes the intention behind choosing to help.

“What we really look for is intention more than the impact. Kindness and goodness, may it be big or small, can go a long way,” he added. 

A Nationwide Search for Everyday Heroes

To ensure nationwide inclusivity, nominations were gathered digitally across social media and web portals, as well as offline through physical nomination postcards distributed across the country to reach communities without reliable internet access.

All submissions underwent independent verification before advancing to a distinguished multi-sector jury panel composed of respected leaders across government, media, civil society, and academia:

• Joy Flavier-Alampay — Director, Ramon Magsaysay Transformative Leadership Institute, Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation

• Tina Arceo-Dumlao — Business Features Editor, Philippine Daily Inquirer

• Ma. Teresa Habitan — Vice Chancellor, Philippine Tax Academy

• Daniel Cecilio — Senior Vice President for Land-Based Operations, PAGCOR

• Alden Richards — Multi-awarded actor, founder of AR Foundation, and Hero For All Lead Advocate

Nominees were evaluated based on selflessness, courage, sustainability, and “story transferability,” considering how an individual’s act of service could inspire similar community-led solutions across the country.

Hero For All is a celebration of Filipinos who do good not because they expect recognition, but because helping others is simply doing the right thing.

By recognizing their courage and supporting the communities behind their acts of service, Hero For All seeks to amplify stories of integrity, empathy, and meaningful social impact—and remind Filipinos that there are heroes all around us.

RESPONSIBLE GAMING ADVISORY

In accordance with PAGCOR’s Responsible Gaming Code of Practice, Casino Plus wishes to remind all players of the following:

Gaming is for entertainment purposes only. It should not be considered a source of income or a means of financial relief. Players are encouraged to play responsibly and within their means.

Winning is never guaranteed. All gaming outcomes are determined by chance. Past results, including jackpot wins, do not influence or predict future outcomes.

About IGO Digital High Technology, Inc.

Casino Plus is a PAGCOR-licensed online casino platform in the Philippines, providing secure, regulated, and responsible online gaming experiences for Filipino players. The company is committed to providing a secure, fair, and engaging digital entertainment experience, guided by the principles of responsible gaming and player protection. With its continuous expansion, Casino Plus is now regarded as one of the country’s leading online casino platforms, combining entertainment excellence with meaningful corporate social responsibility initiatives.

 

How Much Is Your Land Really Worth? A Philippine Tool Now Estimates It From BIR Values and Market Data

LandValuePH combines published BIR zonal values, location information and available market listings into an initial estimate of what a property may be worth — for owners preparing to sell, buy, inherit or negotiate.

Most Filipino property owners can describe their land precisely — the size, the barangay, the road it sits on. Far fewer can say what it is worth.

The question comes up at the worst possible moments: when a buyer makes an offer, when a family divides inherited property, when a broker suggests an asking price. And the usual answers are unsatisfying. A neighbour's sale price may not apply. A listing site shows what sellers are asking, not what buyers paid. And the government's published figure, the BIR zonal value, is a tax reference rather than a market estimate.

LandValuePH is built for the step before a decision gets made.

The platform starts with the published BIR zonal value for a location — a figure most owners have never looked up, because finding it means identifying a revenue district and reading through government issuances. LandValuePH has consolidated 534,228 of those records covering 48 provinces, 905 cities and municipalities and 34,321 barangays into a single searchable database. Looking up that reference value is free and requires no account.

The zonal value alone, though, does not answer the question owners are actually asking.

Why one number is not enough

Published zonal values vary more than most people assume, even within a single barangay.

In Barangay San Lorenzo in Makati, published values for commercial-residential land range from ₱455,000 to ₱940,000 per square meter depending on the specific location within the barangay. In Barangay Guadalupe Viejo, in the same city, the same classification is published at ₱330,000.

In Cebu City, published values for commercial land range from ₱249,000 per square meter in the city centre down to a fraction of that in outlying barangays.

And what a buyer will actually pay depends on things no schedule records: road frontage, corner position, access, elevation, flood exposure, what is being built nearby, and whether the seller needs to move quickly.

What a LandValuePH valuation report contains

For owners who want more than the reference figure, LandValuePH produces a paid valuation report. Each report sets out:

- The published BIR zonal value for the location

- Location and property classification details

- The property characteristics supplied by the owner

- Available market and listing information for the area

- The adjustments applied and the reasoning behind them

- An estimated value or value range

- The limitations of the estimate, stated plainly

Reports start at ₱1,299. They are produced from data and stated assumptions, not from a site inspection.

This is an initial estimate, not a formal appraisal. A licensed appraiser's report — the kind banks and courts require — involves an inspection and a professional's signed opinion. A LandValuePH report is what an owner reads before deciding whether they need one, or before naming a price.

Where to start

Look up the published zonal value for your location first. It is free, it takes about ten seconds, and it is the number your taxes will be computed against regardless of what happens next.

If you are preparing to sell, negotiating a purchase, or settling an estate, a valuation report adds the market context the zonal value leaves out.

Coverage is not complete. Thirty-four provinces are not yet represented, and the company continues to organize additional BIR issuances as they are published.

Start at LandValuePH

About Land Value PH

LandValuePH is a Philippine property valuation and information platform operated by AHG Lab, providing access to organized published BIR zonal-value information and paid valuation reports for landowners, buyers, brokers and property professionals.

LandValuePH is not affiliated with the Bureau of Internal Revenue. Its valuation reports are an initial estimate and are not a substitute for an appraisal by a licensed appraiser or professional advice.

HREX 2026: The Philippines' First-Ever Premier HR Solutions Expo to Debut at SMX Convention Center This September

HREX 2026, the Philippines' first dedicated expo for human resources solutions, will launch on September 22–23, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center. Anchored on the theme 'AI, Workforce Solutions & Beyond,' the event brings together leading local and international vendors, cutting-edge technology, and top thought leaders to reshape the country's workplace management. The premier expo is supported by the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP).

MANILA, Philippines, August 27, 2026 – The Philippines is set to mark a significant milestone in its corporate history with the launch of HREX 2026, the nation’s first-ever dedicated expo for human resources solutions. Taking place on September 22–23, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, Metro Manila, the landmark event will convene top local and international AI and workforce solution providers under one roof to showcase the next generation of talent management technology.

Meeting the Demands of a Rapidly Transforming Workforce

The debut of HREX comes at a critical juncture for the Philippine workforce, which currently comprises over 47 million employed individuals navigating rapid digital transformation. As AI shifts from a future trend to an everyday operational reality, local organizations are actively seeking solutions that optimize recruitment, payroll, employee engagement, and overall compliance. HREX aims to serve as the definitive, single-destination marketplace for HR leaders to explore these advanced technologies.

Organized through a collaboration between Future First Talents and AFT Corp., the inaugural expo is anchored on the theme "AI, Workforce Solutions & Beyond." It will highlight both state-of-the-art automation tools and foundational human-centric services—ranging from health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and mental health programs to office design and banking partners.

Industry Leadership and Collaborative Spaces

To drive meaningful industry progress, HREX 2026 is supported by the country's preeminent human resources network, the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP). This institutional partnership brings credibility and deep community outreach to the inaugural event.

"We built HREX because the Filipino HR community deserves a space that is entirely theirs—not a side stage at a general business conference, but a dedicated home for the conversations, solutions, and connections that move the profession forward," said Patt Soyao, President of Future First Talents Inc. and Business Partner of HREX 2026.

Bryan Co, President of AFT Corp. and Business Partner of HREX 2026, emphasized the impact of physical networking: "In a physical event like HREX, decisions happen faster. What usually takes months can happen in a day. HR is still all about people; you can’t replace real conversations, trust, and chemistry."

World-Class Insight Stage Sessions

Alongside the expansive exhibition floor, HREX 2026 will host the Insight Stage, featuring 10 keynote and panel sessions across the two-day event. Prominent leaders from some of the region's top brands—such as Jobstreet by SEEK, Canva, Sprout Solutions, UnionBank, TESDA, and the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP)—will share actionable insights on AI-driven talent acquisition, burnout prevention, digital HR operations, and total rewards strategy.

Registration is now open for HR professionals, procurement specialists, and business leaders. For tickets, schedule details, and further updates, please visit the official event website at www.hrex.ph or contact the team via email at marketing@hrex.ph.

About HREX

HREX (Human Resources Expo Philippines) is the Philippines' first dedicated expo for HR solutions, convening the country's leading local and international brands across talent, technology, health, benefits, learning, and workplace operations. Held annually, HREX provides a curated marketplace and thought leadership platform for the nation's HR community. Visit www.hrex.ph.

Cebuana Lhuillier Wins Best Employee Engagement Program at 2026 People Insight Awards

A growing workforce brings new opportunities, but it also creates a challenge: how can an organization ensure that employees across different roles and locations remain connected to one another and to the company? For Cebuana Lhuillier, the answer has been to make connection, participation, recognition, and well-being part of everyday work—not simply activities that happen from time to time.

As a cornerstone culture-building initiative, Amazing KaCebuana stands out by recognizing the value of inclusivity, honoring how diverse perspectives and individual differences ultimately make the company stronger.

“Our people are at the heart of Cebuana Lhuillier’s success. We believe that when employees feel valued, connected, and empowered, they are better positioned to create meaningful impact. This recognition affirms our commitment to building a culture where our people can grow, thrive, and take pride in being part of something bigger than themselves,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier.

This approach earned Cebuana Lhuillier the Best Employee Engagement Program award at the 2026 People Insight Awards, organized by TalentView to recognize organizations advancing the future of work through impactful people and workplace initiatives.

The award recognizes Amazing KaCebuana, Cebuana Lhuillier’s continuous initiative designed to strengthen relationships among employees, leaders, and teams across the organization. Rather than relying on one-time activities, it integrates opportunities for employees to connect, participate, share their voices, recognize one another, and experience the company’s culture regardless of their role or location.

Making Connection Part of Everyday Work

Amazing KaCebuana brings together initiatives that strengthen recognition, communication, leadership, and employee well-being. Workvivo, the company’s digital employee community, is one of these touchpoints, giving employees across branches, field operations, and headquarters a space to share stories, celebrate milestones, recognize colleagues, and connect with leaders.

Other initiatives include the Brillo Awards, which recognize employees who exemplify loyalty and business excellence, and Cebuana News Ngayon (CNN), which keeps more than 12,000 employees informed about company developments, people stories, and milestones. Leadership programs such as Coaching and Mentoring sessions, and Leading at the Speed of Trust program foster open communication, transparency, and active listening, while REBEL, the company’s wellness app, supports employees’ mental, physical, and emotional well-being.

“Creating a meaningful workplace experience requires more than programs. It calls for consistency in how people are heard, supported, and recognized across the organization. Amazing KaCebuana brings this commitment to life through initiatives that meet employees where they are and reflect the different ways they contribute to Cebuana Lhuillier,” said Jo-Ann Tacorda, First Vice President and Group Head for Corporate Services of Cebuana Lhuillier.

Building a Culture Through Everyday Experiences

The strength of Amazing KaCebuana lies in how its initiatives work together—giving employees opportunities to share experiences, recognize colleagues, connect with leaders, stay informed, and access support.

The approach has delivered measurable results, with strong employee participation, readership, retention, PR value, and social media engagement. More importantly, it has made participation a consistent part of the workplace, giving employees more avenues to contribute while encouraging leaders to foster open communication and collaboration.

For Cebuana Lhuillier, the recognition affirms that culture is built through everyday interactions. Amazing KaCebuana gives employees not only the opportunity to experience the company’s culture but also to help shape it.

Bescost Printing Expands Multi-Branch Signage Services for Retail and Franchise Businesses

  

The expanded service allows businesses to manage storefront signage, lightboxes, window graphics, large-format printing, and interior branding through a single production partner, helping maintain consistent brand execution across branches.

Bescost Printing & Signage, a Metro Manila-based large-format printing and signage company, has expanded its multi-branch signage solutions for retail chains, franchise businesses, restaurant groups, mall tenants, and companies growing their physical presence across the Philippines.

The expanded capability is designed for businesses that require consistent signage and visual branding across multiple locations while coordinating production, fabrication, and installation at scale.

With more than 8,000 printing and signage projects completed over 11 years in the industry, Bescost provides an end-to-end production model covering design coordination, large-format printing, signage fabrication, and on-site installation.

“Franchise owners and retail chains face a common challenge: keeping their brand identity consistent from one branch to the next,” said Jim Besinio, CEO and Founder of Bescost Printing. “When production is divided among different suppliers for each location, differences in color, materials, and finishing can affect how the brand is presented. Our approach is to manage the process from design and fabrication through installation.”

Supporting Consistent Signage Across Multiple Locations

For retail and franchise businesses, physical signage is one of the most visible expressions of brand identity. Storefront specifications, colors, materials, dimensions, and finishes often need to be reproduced consistently as businesses open new locations.

Bescost’s commercial signage capabilities include exterior storefront signage, illuminated and non-illuminated signs, acrylic and stainless-steel build-up letters, lightboxes, pylon signs, window graphics, wall murals, wayfinding systems, and interior corporate branding.

Its large-format printing division also produces storefront decals, wall graphics, construction hoardings, and other printed materials commonly required during store openings, renovations, and commercial fit-outs.

By bringing these services together, Bescost can coordinate multiple components of a branch rollout through one production workflow rather than requiring businesses to work with separate suppliers for printing, fabrication, and installation.

Built for Retail, Franchise, and Commercial Expansion

Multi-location projects introduce additional production requirements beyond creating individual signs. Businesses must ensure approved brand specifications are followed while coordinating fabrication schedules, installation requirements, and opening timelines across different sites.

Bescost is strengthening its focus on these larger commercial projects as part of its continued expansion in the Philippine signage and large-format printing industry.

The company works with marketing teams, brand managers, procurement officers, contractors, and project managers to translate approved brand standards into physical signage and printed applications for individual branches.

The expanded multi-branch signage service supports Bescost’s broader strategy of serving businesses that require scalable production as they establish and expand physical locations.

By consolidating commercial signage, large-format printing, fabrication, and installation, Bescost aims to provide Philippine businesses with a more coordinated approach to maintaining their visual identity across multiple locations.

About Bescost Printing

Bescost Printing is the Philippines' premier large-format printing and signage company, known for its world-class output and people-first work culture. Based in Quezon City, Bescost serves businesses nationwide with store dress-up solutions, exterior signage, large-format printing, and full installation services. Bescost Printing does not just print — they transform businesses and build stories worth telling.

Philippine Medical Expo 2026 Explores What Makes a Health System Future-Ready

  

At the Philippine Medical Expo 2026, healthcare innovation was examined as part of a wider system of people, institutions, data, financing, and trust.

The Philippine Medical Expo 2026 brought together healthcare professionals, hospital leaders, technology providers, pharmaceutical companies, distributors, entrepreneurs, investors, innovators, and students at the SMX Convention Center Manila from August 19 to 21.

The event showcased medical technology, hospital and laboratory equipment, pharmaceutical solutions, digital health platforms, healthcare artificial intelligence, and software. Beyond the technologies on display, however, was a larger question: How can innovation create meaningful and equitable value within the health system?

This question shaped the lecture “Healthcare 360: Connecting Care, Talent, and Learning for a Smarter, Future-Ready Health System,” delivered by Dr. Venus Oliva Cloma-Rosales, Founder and Managing Director of 101 Health Research, through the invitation of the University of the Philippines Manila Technology Transfer and Business Development Office.

Healthcare is a system

Drawing from systems thinker Donella Meadows, the lecture described a system as a set of elements, interconnections, and a purpose. Its outcomes are shaped not only by its individual components, but also by the relationships, information flows, rules, incentives, and feedback connecting them.

This perspective is essential in healthcare. A new medical device, digital platform, diagnostic tool, or artificial intelligence model does not operate independently. It enters an environment of patients, health workers, facilities, workflows, financing arrangements, regulations, data systems, and institutional cultures.

“A technically excellent AI tool will not improve health if clinicians do not trust it, data are unreliable, workflows cannot support it, patients cannot access the next stage of care, or no one can finance what follows,” Cloma-Rosales said.

The World Health Organization identifies six interconnected health-system building blocks: leadership and governance, service delivery, health financing, the health workforce, medical products and technologies, and health information systems.

Systems thinking emphasizes that these components cannot be strengthened in isolation. Introducing a technology may alter workforce roles, service workflows, data requirements, financing needs, and governance responsibilities.

Situating innovation within the system

The lecture used the micro–meso–macro lens of Health Policy and Systems Research.

At the micro level are patients, families, communities, and frontline health workers - the people who experience care, make clinical decisions, and build or lose trust.

At the meso level are hospitals, primary-care facilities, universities, research institutions, professional networks, and healthcare businesses. These organizations translate policies, resources, and technologies into actual services.

At the macro level are health policies, financing systems, regulation, markets, digital infrastructure, political conditions, and the wider social and environmental context.

An innovation may be safe and effective in a controlled setting, yet fail in practice if patients and health workers do not accept it, organizations cannot integrate it, or financing and regulation do not support it.

Situating innovation within the system therefore requires asking: What problem does it address? Who will use it, and who may be excluded? Does it fit existing workflows and institutional capacities? Are the necessary data, infrastructure, financing, and governance mechanisms available? Can it be maintained, evaluated, improved, and scaled responsibly?

Three drivers reshaping healthcare

The lecture identified three major forces influencing health systems and healthcare innovation: artificial intelligence, climate change, and the policies and politics of Universal Health Care.

AI and digital transformation can expand diagnostic, administrative, and clinical capabilities. However, they may also amplify bias, fragment information systems, and widen inequities when access, infrastructure, or digital literacy are uneven.

Climate change affects disease patterns as well as the resilience of healthcare facilities, supply chains, health workers, transportation networks, and digital infrastructure. A facility may remain physically intact during a disaster but lose functional capacity if workers cannot safely reach it or essential supplies cannot be delivered.

Universal Health Care policies and politics shape who receives care, how services are financed, which technologies are adopted, and whether reforms can be sustained. Expanding access requires not only policy commitments, but also financing, institutional capacity, governance, public trust, and political support.

These forces interact. AI may support climate surveillance and UHC planning, but it may also create new costs or inequalities. Climate disruption can undermine service delivery and health financing. UHC reforms may create demand for new technologies while requiring stronger regulation and accountability.

Building a Learning Health System

The lecture introduced the Learning Health System, one that continuously converts care and experience into trusted data, data into knowledge, and knowledge into better care.

Digital tools and AI can accelerate this cycle, but technology cannot independently determine what matters, what is equitable, or what action should follow. Human judgment remains essential for contextual interpretation, accountability, ethical decision-making, and trust.

Examples from 101 Health Research’s nursing workforce study and the mid-term evaluation of the National Unified Health Research Agenda 2023-2028 illustrated this point.

Follow 101 Health Research on Instagram and Facebook (@101healthresearch) for more updates, research findings, and insights on health systems and evidence-based healthcare.

The nursing study showed that digitalization may improve nursing work and create new career pathways, but may also increase workload when training, infrastructure, workflow design, and institutional support are inadequate. It also demonstrated that climate resilience is closely linked to workforce resilience.

The NUHRA evaluation showed that setting research priorities is only the beginning. A future-ready research system also requires skilled people, capable institutions, connected data, appropriate financing, efficient processes, and pathways that translate research into policy, practice, innovation, and community benefit.

A future-ready health system is not necessarily the one with the most advanced technology. It is the one that learns, adapts responsibly, protects its people, and ensures that innovation creates equitable public value.

About 101 Health Research

Founded in 2014, 101 Health Research® is an independent health research consulting and analytics firm dedicated to producing trustworthy, ethical, and decision-relevant evidence for clinical care, public health, and health systems.

We serve hospitals, universities, pharmaceutical and medical device companies, government agencies, and international partners across the Philippines, Southeast Asia, and global markets.

Our work spans clinical research, epidemiology, biostatistics, medical data science, and research governance. Through rigorous methodology, collaborative engagement, and strong ethical standards, we design, conduct, and support research that strengthens decision-making at institutional, national, and regional levels.

Idesia by P.A. Properties Hankyu Hanshin wins three major titles at the 14th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards

 P.A. Properties Hankyu Hanshin (P.A. Hankyu), the joint venture between P.A. Properties and Japan’s Hankyu Hanshin Properties Corp., celebrates a historic three-award victory at the 14th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, with its flagship development, Idesia, named winner in three major categories.

Under the theme “Defined by Excellence,” the 14th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards recognised outstanding achievements across residential, commercial, hospitality, industrial, and mixed-use property, as well as architecture, interior design, sustainability, and social impact.

The winners were announced during a black-tie gala held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila, where 16 organisations were named winners across 46 categories.

Among the night’s distinguished awardees was Idesia by P.A. Properties Hankyu Hanshin Inc., which secured the following prestigious recognitions:

●      Best Housing Development (Philippines) — WINNER

●      Best Housing Development (Luzon) — WINNER

●      Best Premium First Home Development — WINNER

Idesia is P.A. Hankyu’s growing residential community brand, with developments strategically located across key areas in Luzon, including Dasmariñas, Cavite; Lipa, Batangas; Cabuyao, Laguna; and San Jose del Monte, Bulacan. Designed to bring quality homeownership closer to Filipino families, each Idesia community reflects the partnership’s commitment to thoughtful planning, quality living, and creating spaces where families can build their future.

The triple victory marks a significant milestone for P.A. Hankyu, with Idesia emerging as one of the country’s most recognized housing developments at this year’s awards. Standing out as the highest distinction among its accolades, the Best Housing Development (Philippines) award highlights Idesia’s premier standing on a national stage. The recognition comes following a unanimous decision by the esteemed judging panel, outshining competing developments across the nation.

The awards affirm Idesia’s commitment to creating thoughtfully planned communities that combine quality, functionality, and design. Its recognition as Best Premium First Home Development further underscores its success in elevating the first-home experience and setting a new standard for accessible, premium living for Filipino families.

The achievement also reflects the strength of the partnership between P.A. Properties and Hankyu Hanshin Properties Corp., bringing together local expertise and Japanese development experience to create communities designed with Filipino families in mind.

“This recognition is a meaningful milestone for P.A. Hankyu and a testament to what can be achieved when strong partnerships, shared values, and a commitment to excellence come together. We are deeply grateful to PropertyGuru for recognizing Idesia, and to our homeowners, partners, and employees whose trust, dedication, and hard work made this achievement possible.”

“Winning three awards, including Best Housing Development in the Philippines, inspires us to continue raising the standard of what we can deliver. More than an award, this is a recognition of the dreams and stories behind every home we build. We remain committed to creating communities where Filipino families can thrive, grow, and build meaningful lives together.”

— Atty. Marianne Reyna Lina Cruz CEO and President, P.A. Properties and P.A. Properties Hankyu Hanshin

For P.A. Hankyu, Idesia’s three wins are more than industry accolades. They represent the collective efforts of its employees, partners, homeowners, and stakeholders who share the vision of creating communities that go beyond providing shelter.

The recognition is also a testament to the company’s belief that “Behind every home is a story.” Every Idesia home represents a beginning—a place where families can create memories, pursue their dreams, and build their future.

As P.A. Hankyu celebrates this milestone, it remains committed to developing communities that deliver lasting value and meaningful experiences for Filipino families.

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About P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation

Nestled in San Pedro, Laguna, P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation (P.A. Properties) is a leading developer of low to medium-cost housing communities in Southern Luzon. Since its establishment in 1994, the company has crafted over 30,000 homes across key Philippine provinces, with plans to build an additional 20 communities in the next 5 years. P.A. Properties, guided by the tagline "Behind Every Home is a Story," not only addresses the nation's housing backlog but also actively contributes to economic growth. Through philanthropic initiatives, such as hospital donations in Cabuyao, providing right of way in Pampanga for civic centers, and establishing SanJo's markets in provinces like Laguna and Bulacan, the company weaves a narrative of community development and nationwide impact.