PH Businesses Must Build Workforce Resilience Amid Severe Weather Systems - AscentHR

13 October 2026 Manila, Philippines — As severe weather systems and typhoons continue to disrupt regular business operations across the Philippines, AscentHR, a leading provider of HR technology, payroll, compliance, and workforce solutions, is urging enterprises in the country to strengthen their operational resilience by modernizing their workforce management infrastructure.

This follows the latest data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), which reported a drop in average weekly hours worked from 40.6 hours in July to 39.2 hours in August this year. According to the PSA, bad weather was a primary factor causing millions of employed Filipinos to work fewer hours, directly impacting worker take-home pay and creating administrative complexity for employers managing variable shifts, overtime, and statutory reporting.

The latest PSA report also highlighted that while overall unemployment eased to 5.3% in August, underemployment remained high at 11.9%, representing approximately 5.9 million employed Filipinos seeking additional working hours or secondary income. Coupled with severe weather that forced disruptions, businesses face various challenges, including maintaining workforce productivity while ensuring fair, transparent, and accurate compensation during the affected operating cycles.

Labor market disruptions from extreme weather events are increasingly recognized as a macro-economic challenge across the Asia-Pacific region. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), heat stress and extreme weather disruptions account for millions of lost working hours annually in tropical climate zones, significantly impacting labor-intensive and shift-based operations such as manufacturing, retail, logistics, and multi-site operations.

AscentHR emphasizes that while physical disaster recovery plans remain a priority for corporations, operational continuity must extend directly into workforce administration, particularly in managing fluctuating work hours, shift differentials, and complex pay calculations without administrative friction or compliance errors.

"Operational resilience isn't just about disaster recovery, but it's about having payroll and workforce technology agile enough to accommodate weather disruptions and seasonal hours without administrative drag," said Subramanyam Sreenivasaiah, Founder & CEO of AscentHR. "When extreme weather disrupts standard working patterns, business agility depends on automated shift tracking, flexible variable-pay engines, and real-time compliance safeguards that ensure employees are accurately compensated without delay."

As local enterprises gear up for anticipated fourth-quarter seasonal hiring and ongoing weather contingencies, AscentHR urges businesses to examine their HR tech infrastructure for flexibility, localized compliance, and real-time data visibility.

"As weather patterns become increasingly unpredictable, businesses cannot afford legacy HR and payroll systems that bottleneck operations during emergency adjustments. Investing in secure, automated, and compliant workforce technology protects both the organization’s bottom line and the economic well-being of its workforce," Sreenivasaiah adds.

As one of the top HR and payroll solutions providers in the APAC region, AscentHR enables enterprises to navigate regional compliance, multi-country payroll, and workforce volatility through secure, scalable platforms including PowerPay and StoHRM. By integrating AI-driven automation, cloud analytics, and localized compliance features tailored for the Philippine market, AscentHR helps organizations absorb operational disruptions while maintaining data security and employee trust.

For more information, you may visit https://ascent-hr.com.

A New Way of Working: Find Out the 4 Things Modern Professionals Are Loving About the New HUAWEI MatePad Air

Manila, Philippines (September 22, 2026) — As workdays become increasingly flexible, modern professionals need a device that can keep up with demanding tasks without slowing them down. Combining a high-quality display with AI-powered productivity in an ultra-thin design, the all-new HUAWEI MatePad Air is designed to fit naturally into any workflow.

HUAWEI’s newest tablet offers professionals a more flexible way to get things done, wherever their workday takes them.

For professionals and content creators looking for a device that can support their everyday productivity, here are four things to know about the new HUAWEI MatePad Air.

1. World’s Best Screen That Makes Every Workday Look Better and Feel Easier on the Eyes

When so much of the day is spent looking at a screen, today’s professionals need a display that helps them work comfortably while making long hours in front of it easier on the eyes. For content creator and “side hustler” Rini, the display is one of the standout features of the new HUAWEI MatePad Air. The device features a 12-inch 2.8K Ultra-clear OLED PaperMatte Display, which Rini finds enhances both work and entertainment experiences. “Because it’s an OLED screen with excellent contrast ratio and peak brightness, I also get a great binge watching experience when it’s time to unwind,” she remarked.

The screen’s PaperMatte technology reduces glare and reflections, while preserving a paper-like writing and touch experience. For professionals like Rini who work in bright-lit spaces like cafes and co-working spaces, the technology helps to keep them focused on their work. “Even sitting right beside a window like this, I’m not constantly fighting reflections and glare,” said Rini.

Because HUAWEI cares for your eyes, the screen is also designed to keep your eyes protected from eye strain, making the HUAWEI MatePad Air ideal for all-day use. TV personality and entrepreneur, Valeen Montenegro, found screen comfort to be essential in a device, since it follows her through different parts of the day. “With (the HUAWEI MatePad Air’s) anti-glare and anti-reflection technology, it’s comfortable to use whether I’m working indoors or even outdoors,” stated Montenegro. “This is where it really makes my work life easier.”

2. AI-Powered Productivity That Makes Light Work of the Workload

Demanding workdays require productivity tools that help you do more in a day and do it better. With the HUAWEI MatePad Air, modern professionals get a productivity companion that enables them to go through workdays more efficiently.

The tablet comes with the PC-Level WPS Office suite, which Rini uses for turning briefs into a pitch. “I can use WPS as my all-in-one office to create and edit documents, presentations, and spreadsheets all from the HUAWEI MatePad Air,” she said. “And with WPS AI, I can make the process even faster. I can use it to summarize PDFs, improve my script writing, and even generate a PowerPoint presentation based on a specific topic.” Part-time content creator and full-time professional James Licauco also found the AI-powered PC-Level WPS Office to be a “saver,” especially when he has to suddenly create a deck for a presentation. With access to a vast app ecosystem, the HUAWEI MatePad Air also gives users the flexibility to work with familiar tools such as Google Slides, Google Calendar, and Ibis Paint X.

Similarly, Gen Z content creator, Alliah Racelis, uses WPS AI to make information more manageable. “WPS AI summarizes it into key points,” she shared, while AI Tutor can “break things down” when she needs help understanding a topic.

The HUAWEI MatePad Air also comes with the AI HUAWEI Notes, which gives professionals a new and improved way to capture information. The app’s speech-to-text feature supports various languages, which Rini finds helpful. “I really like that the feature even supports Filipino, which is perfect because I’m usually talking to clients in a mix of English and Filipino.” James highlights the app as part of his workflow, using HUAWEI Notes to enhance handwritten information and bring it into a more organized digital workspace.

3. A 4-in 1 Setup That Transforms to Match the Way You Work

Beyond the device itself, the HUAWEI MatePad Air comes with accessories designed to support a more complete productivity and creativity experience without sacrificing portability. The HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard transforms the tablet into a full PC-like setup, making typing more responsive and efficient with support for desktop-level shortcuts, so professionals can work comfortably wherever they are.

The accessory bundle also includes the HUAWEI M-Pencil Pro, which according to Alliah, gives her more ways to interact with the HUAWEI MatePad Air. Aside from enhancing the writing and drawing experience, Rini and James highlight the HUAWEI M-Pencil Pro’s gesture controls and Air Mouse feature, which make presentations more seamless. They can also use the stylus to navigate slides and point out key information with its laser pointer.

Paired with the HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard and the HUAWEI M-Pencil Pro, the HUAWEI MatePad Air offers a complete 4-in-1 setup that supports different ways for working. For Valeen Montenegro, having everything together is one of the things she loves most about the device. “I get my whole 4-in-1 setup in one go,” she remarked.

As a freelancer who doesn’t always work at her desk, Rini highlights the benefit of having a complete workstation that she can bring with her. “I can literally bring my entire setup,” she said, referring to the tablet and its NearLink-compatible accessories. 

4. An Ultra-Slim Design With the Power to Go the Distance

For these modern professionals, the best thing about the HUAWEI MatePad Air is how light and easy it is to bring anywhere. Measuring only 5.3mm thin and weighing just 509g on its own, the HUAWEI MatePad Air delivers powerful, reliable performance without weighing you down.

“It’s only 817g with the keyboard,” Rini pointed out as she took the tablet to a cafe to work on a client pitch. The device’s slim, lightweight build makes it the ideal device for Valeen, who is always on the go and needs a device that “doesn’t take up half her bag.” 

Under its ultra-thin frame, the HUAWEI MatePad carries a large 10,100mAh battery with 66W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo, helping the tablet stay ready for every task. Valeen’s experience with the tablet further reflects its balance between portability and capability. According to the actress, her day can work from work, errands, groceries, and family responsibilities, yet the tablet is able to keep up, thanks to its reliable battery.

Beyond its long-lasting battery, the HUAWEI MatePad Air packs 12GB physical RAM + 8GB virtual RAM and 256GB storage to handle demanding apps, documents, and files with ease. Its 3D heat dissipation architecture also helps keep the device cool and stable through busy workdays.

Make the Most of Every Workday With the New HUAWEI MatePad Air

Experience a different kind of workday with the HUAWEI MatePad Air, now available at PHP 59,999 from PHP 64,999. The tablet comes with a freebie bundle worth up to PHP 33,886. With every purchase, get a free HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard (worth PHP 9,999), HUAWEI M-Pencil Pro (worth PHP 7,999), a PC-Level WPS Office (worth PHP 4,999), a One-Year WPS AI Membership (worth PHP 7,000), a Bluetooth Mouse (worth PHP 1,899), and a bag (worth PHP 1,990).

Don’t miss exclusive vouchers with PHP 5,000 available on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok. Vouchers worth PHP 6,500 are also up for grabs only on the HUAWEI Online Store. Plus, enjoy 0% installment offers up to 24 months when you purchase using select bank credit or debit cards.

To learn more, visit your nearest HUAWEI Experience Store or check out HUAWEI’s official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram).

TP in the Philippines Celebrates 30 Years with 9th Consecutive Great Place to Work® Certification

Manila, Philippines, August 2026 – TP in the Philippines, a global leader in digital business services, has been certified as a Great Place to Work® for the ninth consecutive year, marking a defining milestone as the company celebrates 30 years of operations in the country. The recognition reinforces TP's enduring commitment to building a workplace where people, innovation, and opportunity drive sustainable business growth.

The globally recognized Great Place to Work® Certification is awarded to organizations that consistently cultivate high levels of trust, respect, fairness, pride, and camaraderie among employees. For TP in the Philippines, earning the distinction for the ninth straight year reflects a workplace culture that has continued to thrive amid rapid business expansion, digital transformation, and the evolving future of work.

“A great workplace is one where people are empowered to transform opportunities into meaningful impact. Receiving our ninth consecutive Great Place to Work certification, as TP celebrates its 30th year in the Philippines, is a testament to the work culture we have intentionally built over the past three decades. It reflects our people-first approach, and the unwavering commitment to creating limitless opportunities for our people to learn, innovate, grow, and lead. We remain focused on shaping the future of work while ensuring our people continue to thrive alongside technology,” said Rahul Jolly, Chief Executive Officer of TP in the Philippines.

Since establishing operations in the Philippines in 1996, TP has grown alongside the country's IT-BPM industry and has helped strengthen the Philippines' position as one of the world's leading hubs for digitally integrated business services. Today, TP employs approximately 60,000 people across 29 sites nationwide and continues to invest in technologies, talent development, and innovation that are shaping the next generation of customer experience.

“As our industry continues to evolve, the future of work will increasingly be defined by the powerful collaboration between people and AI,” said Jorge Amar, Chief Executive Officer of TP Group. “Building a high-trust workplace has never been more important. Our ninth consecutive Great Place to Work Certification reflects our commitment to empowering our people with the skills, technologies, and opportunities they need to innovate, deliver greater value for our clients, and help shape the future of our industry.” 

The Great Place to Work® Certification reflects TP's long-standing investment in creating meaningful careers anchored on continuous learning, inclusion, and future readiness. TP is committed to empowering people with the capabilities needed to succeed in an increasingly digital economy while helping shape a highly skilled, future-ready workforce for the Philippines. Through TP.ai FAB, for example, the company equips employees with practical AI capabilities that enable them to work more efficiently and deliver greater value in an increasingly technology-enabled workplace.

Beyond advancing AI adoption, TP continues to strengthen its culture and belonging initiatives through employee resource groups such as TP Women, which champions women's leadership and career advancement, and TP Pride, which fosters an inclusive workplace where every individual can succeed regardless of identity or background. On the other hand, programs such as TP Harmony advocates for inclusion and support for underrepresented communities including Persons with Disability, caregivers and solo parents while TP Legacy is a program that recognizes the dedication, loyalty, and invaluable contributions of retiring employees providing meaningful retirement transition and entry into a supportive alumni community.

TP also continues to strengthen its talent pipeline through many programs that support every stage of employees’ career journeys.

As TP enters its fourth decade in the Philippines, the company remains focused on accelerating innovation, transforming work through responsible AI, expanding opportunities across the country, and investing in Filipino talent. Guided by a culture of trust and continuous growth, TP continues to help shape a stronger, more resilient, and future-ready Philippine IT-BPM industry.

SM Job Fair Empowers Filipinos this August with Nationwide Hiring, FREE Upskilling, and One-Stop Government Services

PASAY CITY, Philippines – As the world of work continues to evolve, finding employment is no longer the only goal—staying competitive means continuously learning new skills and having easier access to services that support one's career journey. This August, SM Supermalls continues to create more opportunities for Filipinos through its nationwide SM Job Fair program, bringing together employment opportunities, free upskilling initiatives, and convenient access to government services that help jobseekers prepare for the future of work. More than a hiring event, SM Job Fair has evolved into a platform that empowers Filipinos by connecting them not only to employers, but also to learning opportunities and essential government services—all designed to support every stage of their employment journey.

PMAP Mega Job Fair headlines August lineup

Leading this month's activities is the PMAP Mega Job Fair, happening on August 10–11 at the SM City North EDSA Skydome in partnership with the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP). Held in celebration of PMAP's 70th Anniversary, this year's event carries the theme "HumanITy Forward 2026: Empowering Talent in a Digital World," bringing together top employers, HR professionals, graduating students, alumni, fresh graduates, career shifters, and jobseekers under one roof. The event builds on the Memorandum of Understanding between SM Supermalls and PMAP, reflecting their shared commitment to developing a future-ready Filipino workforce through employment, career development, and continuous learning.

Reputable and prestigious employers from PMAP's network like BDO and Coca-Cola, open doors to jobseekers during the two-day career event at SM City North EDSA last year.

SM Retail Job Fair offers careers within the SM Group

Jobseekers can also explore exciting opportunities at the SM Group Job Fair on August 18 at the Mall Atrium of SM City Fairview. In partnership with SM Retail, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Quezon City Public Employment Service Office (PESO), PSAC Jobs, PCCI, ECOP, and PHILEXPORT, the one-day hiring event offers applicants the opportunity to pursue careers across the country's largest retail network—from department stores and supermarkets to fashion, home, and specialty retail brands. Applicants will have the chance to meet recruiters, submit applications, and participate in on-the-spot interviews.

Thousands of jobseekers filled SM City Fairview during a previous SM Group Job Fair, where applicants explored career opportunities and connected with recruiters under one roof. This year's SM Retail Job Fair continues SM Supermalls' commitment to bringing employment opportunities closer to communities.

More job opportunities across the country

SM Supermalls continues to bring career opportunities closer to communities through its nationwide Job Fair program in partnership with DOLE and local PESO. Upcoming August Job Fair schedules include:

August 10–11 –SM City North EDSA Skydome

August 12 – SM City Daet

August 13 – SM City Trece Martires

August 13 – SM City Tuguegarao

August 18 – SM City Fairview 

August 22 – SM Seaside City Cebu

August 24 – SM Mall of Asia

August 25 – SM City Davao

August 27 – SM City Trece Martires

Each event provides jobseekers with direct access to employers from various industries while allowing them to explore multiple career opportunities in one convenient location.

Upcoming free upskilling sessions include:

August 1 - SM City North EDSA

August 1 - SM Mall of Asia

August 8 - SM City North EDSA

August 8 - SM Mall of Asia

August 15 - SM City North EDSA

August 22 - SM City North EDSA

August 22 - SM Mall of Asia

August 29 - SM City North EDSA

Schedules and participating malls may change without prior notice. For updates and the latest list of participating malls, scan the QR Code, visit SM Supermalls Job Fair Page and follow SM Supermalls’ official social media pages.

Who says learning can't be fun? Participants enjoyed hands-on activities in AI-powered design, robotics, and cybersecurity during DICT's free digital upskilling session at the SM Government Service Express (GSE) in SM North EDSA, helping build future-ready skills through the SM Job Fair initiative.

AI and Canva Training Participants explore Canva's AI-powered design tools during DICT's free digital skills training at the SM Government Service Express (GSE) in SM North EDSA, equipping learners with practical creative and workplace-ready digital skills.

While many upskilling sessions are conducted in activity areas and learning venues across SM malls, selected SM Government Service Express (GSE) locations are also being activated as Upskilling Hubs, allowing communities to access free learning opportunities within these dedicated spaces.

A one-stop hub for jobseekers

To make the employment journey even more convenient, many SM Job Fairs are complemented by the SM Government Service Express (GSE), available in select SM malls nationwide. Serving as a one-stop hub for government services, GSE enables jobseekers to conveniently process employment-related requirements and access essential services from partner government agencies—all within the convenience of an SM mall.

Participants discover the power of artificial intelligence through the AI for ALL learning session at the SM Government Service Express (GSE) in SM City Manila. Through the SM Job Fair initiative and partnerships with APC and IBM SkillsBuild, SM Supermalls continues to make future-ready AI and digital skills more accessible to students, jobseekers, and professionals.

By integrating employment opportunities, government services, and free learning initiatives, SM continues to simplify the journey from job application to career development.  "At SM, we believe creating opportunities means supporting Filipinos beyond the hiring process," said Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls. "Through our nationwide SM Job Fairs, free upskilling initiatives, and the SM Government Service Express, we're making it easier for communities to find jobs, develop future-ready skills, and conveniently access essential government services closer to home."

Creating more pathways to opportunity

Through the combined strengths of SM Job Fair, SM Government Service Express, and its growing network of free upskilling initiatives, SM Supermalls continues to create meaningful opportunities that help Filipinos succeed in an increasingly competitive and digital world. Whether starting a first job, exploring a new career, or learning new skills for the future, SM remains committed to building accessible platforms where communities can work, learn, and grow. To learn more about upcoming SM Job Fairs, free upskilling sessions, and SM Government Service Express locations, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow SM Supermalls on Facebook.