Get The Toughest Phone HONOR X9b 5G via GPlan 1299

Manila, Philippines, February 1, 2024 – Leading global smart devices provider HONOR has announced another success story for its viral smartphone. HONOR X9b 5G. The toughest phone is now available via Globe Postpaid Plans starting February 2, 2024 on select offline stores and online.

“This partnership with Globe is a great option for those who are interested in getting the HONOR X9b 5G. Available for both new subscribers and renewals, you can now get a hold of the toughest phone via Globe Postpaid Plans. So order it now online or at your nearest Globe store before stocks run out,” said HONOR Phlippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

Showcasing an industry-leading drop resistance and durability, the HONOR X9b 5G’s display incorporates the HONOR Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop technology. Certified by SGS’s Five Star Overall Drop Resistance, the HONOR Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Display utilizes advanced cushioning technology using newly developed materials, which increases the shock absorption capacity by up to 1.2 times, ensuring utmost durability even when subject to drops from a height of 1.5 meters and all angles.

The HONOR X9b 5G also boasts a triple camera system consisting of a 108MP Ultra-Clear Camera, a 5MP Ultra-Wide Camera, and a 2MP Macro Camera. The 108MP Ultra-Clear Camera comes with a large 1/1.67-inch sensor and a large f/1.75 aperture, allowing it to capture more light and produce images with vivid clarity. The camera also offers high optical quality with 3X zoom and an outstanding motion capture engine, ensuring the HONOR X9b 5G produces clear snapshots with fascinating detail.

So, what are you waiting for? Avail HONOR X9b 5G in Sunrise Orange, Midnight Black, and Emerald Green with One-time Cash Out of Php 3,300 when you renew or apply for GPlan 1299 that comes with Unli All-Net Calls & Text, Landline Calls, and 8GB Data. 

Head on to the neareset Globe Store or online starting February 2, 2024 and get a FREE HONOR Gift Set and HONOR Choice X5 Earbuds worth Php 4,000! For renewal – https://bit.ly/GPlan_HONORX9b5G_Renewal and for new application - https://bit.ly/GPlan_HONORX9b5G.

To know more about the complete features of HONOR X9b 5G, you may visit: https://bit.ly/HONORPH_X9b_Pressrelease and head on to HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms for exciting announcements: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

917Ventures’ Fundspace Offers Philippine MSMEs Grappling with Credit and Funding Issues New Seamless Digital-Based Solution

Manila, Philippines, 30 January 2024–  As fund sufficiency remains a major challenge for MSMEs, particularly in emerging markets, 917Ventures’s loan aggregator Fundspace is offering 

MSMEs and local entrepreneurs a swift, user-friendly, and easily accessible digital solution to bridge the financing gap in the Philippines.

“No one can deny the outsized impact of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). According to the United Nations Development Programme, these businesses contribute 40% to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and employ 63% of the local workforce. Despite their substantial contributions, many MSMEs continue to be underfunded. This hinders the growth of these businesses, and in turn may hinder the growth of the economy,” said Martin Luchangco, Entrepreneur-in-Residence at 917Ventures.

Straightforward Application Process
FundSpace caters to enterprises of all sizes, ensuring easy access to the funding to ensure business growth and sustainability. It connects borrowers to different lending partners offering various loan products through an accessible mobile-friendly platform. 

Entrepreneurs can start their financing journey in four simple steps: 

1. Visit the FundSpace website

2. Specify the loan amount

3. Submit necessary business documents (such as Barangay and Mayor’s Permits, DTI Permits, valid IDs, and the latest three months bank statements), and; 

4. Wait for its dedicated account managers to get in touch. 

1. The platform has a quick 14-day loan approval timeline, a significant improvement over the typical 60-day timeline seen in traditional banks.

Together with its lender partners that include Alon Capital, iGlobal, Mt Fuji Lending, BPI Business Banking, First Circle, Zenith Capital, and Esquire, FundSpace provides loans from P5,000 to upwards of P100 million.

“It’s important to provide flexible loan amounts to better serve MSMEs across the board–from those who are just starting out, to those who want to aggressively grow their businesses,” Luchangco explained.

Since launch, FundSpace has facilitated loans across multiple businesses, including industries like retail, construction, food and beverage, services, and software industries, underscoring its position as a valuable partner of MSMEs, helping propel them toward sustainable growth and success.

Inclusive Access to All Types of Businesses

Data from the United Nations Development Program showed that more than half of MSMEs (67%) in the Philippines face challenges when it comes to securing funding. 

Many of these entrepreneurs rely on personal savings or loans from family and friends to start or expand their businesses, as banks and other financial institutions often subject entrepreneurs to a lengthy, tedious process, demanding extensive documentation. Rigid collateral requirements and high-interest rates pose additional barriers, limiting the accessibility of crucial financial resources and cost of business for these enterprises.

In response to these challenges, FundSpace was developed to simplify the borrowing process.

Features to look forward to

Beyond continuing to expand its loan offerings, FundSpace plans to launch a credit scoring feature later in the year. This feature is designed to streamline the application process for borrowers by reducing the required documentation. Simultaneously, for lenders, it will facilitate quicker assessments and enable the platform to deliver higher-quality leads. 

FundSpace's commitment to innovation not only enhances the user experience for borrowers but also strengthens the efficiency and effectiveness of the lending process for its valued network of financial partners.

"Empowering MSMEs with easy financial solutions is both an investment in their growth and in fostering economic resilience. By removing financial barriers for these enterprises we are contributing not only to their success but also to the sustainable development of communities and the Philippine economy,” Luchangco added.

Learn more about FundSpace by visiting fundspace.ph.

Light up your New Year with Globe in NYE AT THE 5TH!

Are you ready to ring in 2024 with a bang? Globe is teaming up with Bonifacio Global City and the local government of Taguig for NYE AT THE 5TH – a street celebration that's going to brighten your world.

Prepare to dive into a night of unforgettable fun on December 31 at the Globe Booth at Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre. As you step into this festive arena, feel the pulse of a community coming together, ready to set the stage for a truly fantastic year ahead.

 

A spectacular K-Pop performance

A stellar performance by one of K-Pop's biggest groups is set to electrify the evening,  which is why Globe KmmunityPH and Anything K-Pop Manila is teaming up once again to amp up the energy. Whether you're a long-time stan or new to the scene, there is a diverse array of awesome activities designed to immerse you in the vibrant world of K-Pop.

 

Capture your moments at the Globe photobooth

Make your New Year's Eve more memorable at the Globe photobooth. It's the perfect spot to snap your festive OOTD, gather with loved ones for a group photo, and capture the spirit of the celebration.

 

Arcade fun with friends

Challenge your friends and test your skills at Globe's arcade machines. It's not just about winning; it's about enjoying every playful moment and maybe even snagging some cool prizes.

 

Dance parties to keep you moving

Get ready to move and groove! Spontaneous dance parties are set to erupt, offering you a chance to dance your heart out. Mingle with fellow party-goers in these impromptu dance-offs and let the rhythm of the night take over.

 

Exclusive deals from 0917 Lifestyle

Fashion meets fandom with 0917 Lifestyle's exclusive freebies and discounts on some of their most popular collections. Enjoy up to 50% off on shirts, accessories, and more. It's the perfect opportunity to showcase your style and express your fandom.

 

Concert experience at the Globe booth

Experience the concert with added comfort at the Globe booth. This is your chance to enjoy the performance in a cozy setting, making your New Year's Eve celebration even more special.

 

"Joining BGC and Taguig City in this celebration is our way of bringing people together and fueling their passion. We’re creating a vibrant space where fans can connect, and we're excited to offer an experience that's both fun and meaningful as we welcome the new year,” said Crisela Magpayo-Cervantes, Globe’s Vice President for Marketing Communications.

 

As the countdown to the New Year begins, don't miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable celebration. Join Globe at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre on December 31 for a gathering of hearts and dreams, all united by the excitement for new beginnings.

Gogoro Opens First Experience Center in PH

Here comes the future, and it’s riding an electric wave!

Gogoro Philippines, a pioneering force in e-mobility, opened its first experience center in Makati City on November 7 as it gears up for its commercial launch in the country. Located at 2/F, Greenbelt 4, Ayala Center, this innovative hub offers an immersive experience, giving visitors a taste of what it is like to use Gogoro Smartscooters^® and battery-swapping.

"With the opening of our first Gogoro Experience Center (GEC), we are not just unveiling a store, we are opening the doors to the next chapter of mobility in the Philippines. Filipinos are invited to step in, explore, and be a part of this transformative journey towards a smarter and cleaner urban commute,” said Bernie Llamzon, President of Gogoro Philippines.

At the GEC, visitors are immersed in the world of the Gogoro Smartscooter^® and will be able to see a range of Smartscooters^® including:

●        Gogoro S1 - Inspired by supercars, the iconic Gogoro S1 is based on a chassis crafted from racing-grade aluminum.

●        Gogoro SuperSport - The high-performance Gogoro SuperSport is also equipped with Gogoro’s cutting-edge SSMartcore Technology.

●        Gogoro Delight - The Gogoro Delight was designed by an all-female team that emphasizes rider comfort and functionality.

●        Gogoro Viva - The compact Gogoro Viva is ideal for city travel and requires no license or registration to ride.

Gogoro Battery Swapping

Beyond the Smartscooters, the GEC shines a spotlight on the unique battery-swapping ecosystem that Gogoro pioneered to accelerate the two-wheel transformation to smart electric transportation in cities by offering quick and easy Swap & Go battery swapping. Consumers will get a chance to witness this global innovation in action and even participate in lightning-quick battery swapping at a GoStation.

Availability

Gogoro Philippines will be announcing pricing and availability for some Smartscooter^® models on December 1, 2023 as well as additional models that will be available in early 2024.

Accessories

There will also be a wide variety of accessories available for riders to personalize their Smartscooters^® to meet their specific needs, whether to add extra convenience, style, or functionality.

Test Rides

The best way to experience Gogoro Smartscooters^® and battery swapping is by taking a test ride. At the GEC, visitors can easily book a test ride and dive deep into Gogoro Smartscooter^® features, and feel the thrill of riding the world's most advanced electric two-wheel vehicles.

The GEC reflects Gogoro’s commitment to making its cutting-edge technology accessible to Filipinos. A joint venture between Globe’s 917Ventures Inc., Ayala Corporation, and Gogoro of Taiwan, Gogoro Philippines aims to redefine the local transportation landscape, in line with Gogoro's global mission of empowering cities with sustainable and intelligent mobility solutions.

For more information, visit www.gogoro.com/ph.

917Ventures Creates MSME Ecosystem to Address Digitalization Woes

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, 25 October 2023– The Philippine government has made the digitalization of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) a top priority to spur the growth of the Philippine economy. In the 2023-2028 Philippine Development Growth Plan, the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) highlighted the need to provide targeted support to MSMEs in fast-tracking technology adoption, digitalization, and automation, to lead to higher productivity and greater innovation.

“One of the most important things we learned in the past few years–and especially for MSMEs– is the importance of digitalization. It not only helps businesses keep up with the times but also ensures that they’re growing at pace with the digital economy,” said Natasha Bautista, 917Ventures’ Head of Growth and Programs. “There is still a lot of room for growth when it comes to increasing digitalization in the Philippines. In contrast to countries in the region, the Philippines' digital economy currently accounts for just 9.4% of our gross domestic product, whereas Vietnam stands at 14.26%, and Malaysia at 14%.”

917Ventures, the largest venture builder in the Philippines, supports MSMEs by providing them with the tools they need at every stage of their journey so they can become digital-first businesses and ensure that they achieve long-term success and sustainability.

“Whether it's providing them with initial capital, helping them get started online, or guiding their expansion to reach a wider audience, our comprehensive suite of solutions provides them with end-to-end support to take them where they want to go,” she added. “We have, to date, been able to support more than 10,000 MSMEs across our ventures and portfolio companies and we hope to expand our solutions to the 1 million MSMEs in the Philippines and help them with digitally transforming their businesses.”

Unlocking capital with FundSpace

For entrepreneurs who want to get started or level up but don’t have the funds to do so, there is FundSpace, a loan platform that offers a suite of financing options that cater to every business's needs. On FundSpace, businesses of all sizes can take a loan for amounts as little as  Php 50,000 to Php 100 million–one of the largest loan amounts available for local MSMEs.

“Securing capital is often one of the biggest hurdles to starting a business, which is why we created FundSpace–an easy and convenient platform where businesses can get the funds they need at low and flexible interest rates. Through FundSpace, they get cash quickly with its processing time that’s 12 times faster and disbursement that is eight times quicker than usual methods,” Bautista explained.

Upskilling to streamline operations with KodeGo and MemoApp

As businesses expand, the imperative to enhance skills and streamline operations becomes more evident than ever. Enter KodeGo, more than just a coding boot camp, it equips businesses with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a digital world. Beyond traditional coding, KodeGo offers a wide array of digital courses that are indispensable for businesses looking to scale and optimize their processes. These courses cover a spectrum of essential skills, including full-stack web development, virtual assistance, bookkeeping, and artificial intelligence.

When it comes to streamlining processes, MemoApp takes the lead as it digitizes previously manual and paper-based processes to make them more intuitive, accessible, and efficient. With its swift workflow approval system, integrated e-signature feature, and easy access to fundamental document templates, MemoApp simplifies how businesses manage their operations.

Getting started online through RUSH

For businesses that want to embrace digitalization, the first step is to get your business online. RUSH is an all-in-one eCommerce platform that takes care of the entire purchase process – from discovery to delivery – empowering merchants to easily launch, manage, and scale their online stores.

RUSH enables merchants to create their e-commerce platform, their mobile app, and access to the GCash GLife Marketplace. It also offers an end-to-end loyalty management platform so businesses can continue to delight their customers by creating relevant and rewarding experiences.

Accessing a wider audience through m360 and Inquiro

Once businesses have successfully established their online presence, the next step is to strategically connect with their target audience and guide them toward the point of purchase. To accomplish this, companies can harness the power of m360's innovative multi-platform messaging solutions. These comprehensive tools empower businesses to effectively inform and engage their customers through a seamless blend of SMS and social media channels.

m360's multi-platform messaging solutions are key to delivering vital information, timely updates, and enticing promotions to customers. With the ability to reach customers where they are most active, businesses can foster stronger connections and drive higher conversion rates.

Furthermore, understanding customer behavior and preferences is paramount for the success of any marketing campaign. Inquiro’s data-driven solutions offer a suite of services designed to provide deep insights into the current customer base and the target audience. More than just analytics, Inquiro's solutions empower businesses to not only comprehend their existing customer demographics but also unearth untapped opportunities by identifying potential audiences beyond their current reach. Inquiro also offers Credibility Scoring that helps businesses assess the risk profile of customers by automating credit-related decision-making.

“Digitalization is not a destination; it's a journey. It's not just about going online; it's about embracing processes that enable businesses to not only exist in the digital realm but thrive, compete, and innovate within it. That’s what we provide with 917Ventures–an MSME ecosystem that will handhold you through every step of every business’ digital journey,” Bautista added.

Globe-Owned IT Solutions Company Yondu Earns Great Place To Work Certification

Tech town hall brings together talented Yondudes

MANILA, Philippines — Yondu, the top IT solutions company wholly owned by Globe, has achieved another milestone this year as it earned its Great Place To Work (GPTW) badge. Over the years, Yondu has steadily built its status as the top IT solutions company in the Philippines with the innovative solutions and tools it has developed and the team of experts it has nurtured. Now, Yondu cements its status for great workplace culture with the Great Place To Work certification.

“This Great Place To Work certification is a nod to our efforts in providing an environment where every Yondude can thrive, grow, and reach their full potential. This validates the effectiveness of our HR strategies and initiatives, reinforcing our belief that investing in our employees' well-being yields tangible results. The certification is not just a milestone; it is a reflection of our shared vision for a thriving workplace,” said Roxanne Tamayo, Vice President for Human Resources at Yondu.

Renowned global organization Great Place To Work’s annual research represents more than 12 million employees from organizations of varying sizes, industries, maturity and structures in over 50 countries. Through its certification program, organizations will have the opportunity to assess their workplaces and benchmark themselves against the Best Workplaces in the world. 

According to the organization’s website, a Great Workplace is “about the trust employees have with their leaders, the pride they have with their jobs, and the happiness they experience with their colleagues.” Driven to continue cultivating a good workplace culture, Yondu teamed up with Great Place to Work to administer the Trust Index Employee Survey to assess their level of trust, the pride they take in their work, and the positive experience they share with coworkers. 

Yondu scored 88% in Justice as employees believed the management promotes inclusivity and equality to ensure fairness. Yondu scored 86% in Intimacy, implying that employees enjoy working with their colleagues and have a supportive work environment wherein people care for each other. Lastly, Yondu got 83% in Camaraderie, indicating the sense of enjoyment and belonging that employees feel in the workplace. Based on these results, Yondu was able to attain the trust index score requirement and received a Great Place To Work certification.

Yondudes unite to celebrate Pride Month

Despite the recognition, Yondu remains committed to maintaining a safe working environment where every Yondude can thrive while embracing their individuality. The company actively fosters employee growth, both professionally and personally, by offering learning and development opportunities and promoting engagement initiatives such as mental health programs and interest groups, which support employees' personal passions and overall well-being.

“What sets Yondu apart from other organizations is its genuine focus on understanding and supporting its employees,” said Javen Babac, Lead Application Support Specialist at Yondu. “The company recognizes that employees perform their best when they feel valued and supported, and this philosophy sets Yondu apart by fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.”

Join Yondu’s growing team and find out more about Yondu’s managed IT services by visiting www.yondu.com, following them on their social media platforms, and subscribing to their newsletter.

917Ventures' PetPal Targets US$1.6 Billion Pet Care Market in SEA - Expands Access to Essential Pet Care for Filipinos

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, 11 September 2023 – The Philippines has seen a significant increase in pet ownership, with 79% of the population now owning a pet, one of the highest percentages in Asia. With the surge in pet ownership, many struggle to find affordable, convenient veterinary care options for their beloved animals with just one vet available for every 10,000 pet owners in the country. 

917Ventures, the largest corporate venture builder in the Philippines, created PetPal to address this market gap. Launched as a vet teleconsultation service, it has recently started to offer at-home grooming services, home vet visits, lab tests, and vaccinations. It also plans to launch an online pharmacy and marketplace for other pet-related goods, supplies and other services. Their PetPal Club subscription service provides users unlimited teleconsultations for up to two pets annually, along with discounts on pet services. A mobile app version is expected to launch later this year.

Carlo Flordeliza, a Senior Venture Builder at 917Ventures, conceived the idea of PetPal after recognizing a gaping need for a comprehensive online pet care platform. The platform aimed to broaden access to veterinary services and champion responsible pet ownership. The motivation for PetPal was deeply personal after experiencing firsthand the challenges of finding an available vet when his dog, Pippin, urgently needed care. 

“PetPal addresses a gap in the pet care market for convenient, accessible, and cost-effective healthcare services for pets. According to ASPCA, a significant number of pets rarely see a veterinarian due to their owners facing substantial challenges such as cost issues and unavailability of veterinarians. These barriers can lead pet owners to delay or skip veterinary treatments, or even abandon their pets. Affordable telehealth services like PetPal can address this while also helping pet owners avoid additional expenses related to transportation, travel time, or missed work,” said Carlo Flordeliza, Senior Venture Builder  at 917Ventures.

The clamor for these services is not confined to the Philippines as the pet care market in Southeast Asia grew to a sizable US$1.6 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow to US$3.08 billion by 2032. Recognizing the potential of the sector, 917Ventures aims to make comprehensive pet care accessible and help the local industry address challenges through digitization, ensuring its growth is in line with the rest of the world. 

“More than half of Asia’s population have pets and we see PetPal and pet telehealth services at large as a transformative solution that not only caters to the demands of modern pet owners but also redefines the way veterinary care is accessed and administered, ushering in a new era of convenience, accessibility, and comprehensive well-being for pets,” said Vince Yamat, Managing Director at 917Ventures.

“By offering a platform, PetPal enables veterinary practitioners to reach a wider audience, deliver crucial services to more pet owners and their pets, and advocate for responsible pet ownership. Additionally, PetPal can also foster economic growth by stimulating demand and therefore creating new revenue streams and potentially generating jobs within the pet service sector,” added Yamat. 

Since its launch, PetPal has conducted thousands of consultations nationwide where partner vets provided guidance on pet nutrition and behavior to first-time pet owners and helped seasoned pet parents book schedules for their pets, fitting them into their busy lives.