Globe Awarded Most Recommended Telco Brand in PH for 2025

Globe was awarded the Most Recommended Telco Brand for 2025 in the Philippines, a recognition grounded on the voice of Filipino consumers.

 

The award was given at the SYNERGY | YouGov Awards, based on data from YouGov BrandIndex, a daily tracker that measures how people feel about brands. From January to December 2024, Globe consistently earned the highest recommendation scores—showing just how strongly Filipinos believe in and stand by the brand.

 

Accepting the award on behalf of Globe, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer Yoly Crisanto shared a heartfelt message: “We’re really, truly proud to receive this award—and we dedicate it to our customers. We will always and continue to pursue making our customers happy and satisfied. At the end of the day, they are our North Star.”

 

This recognition is more than just a title—it’s proof that Globe’s efforts to listen, improve, and deliver better service are paying off. Whether it’s helping people stay connected, supporting digital learning, or creating moments of everyday ease, Globe continues to build real relationships with the people it serves.

 

Globe remains focused on what matters most: earning the trust of customers, and working every day to keep it. From promoting digital inclusion by building stronger digital infrastructure in underserved communities, to simplifying self-service options on the GlobeOne app, to launching rewards and promos that match everyday lifestyles—Globe constantly looks for ways to make things easier, more meaningful, and more relevant for its customers.

Eastern Communications Marks 30 Years of Philippine Internet, Leading Innovations and Inclusive Connectivity

Manila, Philippines — As the Philippines marks the 30th anniversary of the Internet in the country, Eastern Communications, a pioneering telecommunications company with a rich 145-year history, proudly celebrates this significant milestone alongside the nation. With a long-standing commitment to providing inclusive and reliable internet connectivity and ICT solutions, Eastern Communications reaffirms its dedication to being a Partner in Progress for every Filipino.

The internet's journey in the Philippines began on March 29, 1994. This significant step into the digital age was made possible through the collaborative efforts of private and government institutions. This groundbreaking achievement laid the groundwork for the Philippines to join the global internet community that transformed communication, education, and businesses across the nation.

Since the internet's inception in the Philippines, Eastern Communications has been at the forefront of technological innovation, ensuring that communities across the nation have access to the tools and resources needed to thrive in a digital age. As we celebrate three decades of internet connectivity, Eastern Communications is more committed than ever to delivering groundbreaking solutions that meet its customers' evolving needs.

"In a world where the internet has become a cornerstone of daily life, Eastern Communications is honored to have played a pivotal role in the digital transformation of the Philippines," said Edsel Paglinawan, Vice President and Head of Product and Innovation of Eastern Communications. 

"Our journey over the last 145 years has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation. As we celebrate this milestone, we are excited to continue our mission of connecting Filipinos and empowering communities through advanced and reliable ICT solutions,” he added. 

Testament to this is the company’s continued expansion efforts and the completion of its latest Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) Express Route, a joint venture project of Eastern Communications, Globe Telecom, and Infinivan Inc., aimed to bridge the digital divide and foster a more connected society. 

Bolstering innovative solutions and sustainable digital transformation nationwide, Eastern has maintained longstanding partnerships with the Philippine Network Operators Group (PHNOG), alongside other digital and carrier organizations. 

Additionally, the telco actively engaged with Filipino communities, offering free internet access through the MNLKonek kiosks in Manila, and donating routers to universities and Mayon Volcano evacuees in Albay, Bicol, thus expanding support and connectivity to underserved areas.

"Eastern Communications’ vision extends beyond providing superior internet services. We are deeply committed to being an integral part of the nation’s progress, ensuring that every Filipino has the opportunity to benefit from the digital revolution," added Paglinawan

As Eastern Communications looks to the future, the company is excited to unveil new technologies and partnerships that will continue to shape the digital landscape of the Philippines. With a steadfast commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and reliability, Eastern Communications is poised to lead the way in creating a more connected and digital Philippines for generations to come.

To learn more about Eastern Communications’ products and services, contact 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph. 

PLDT, Smart Reinforce Mental Mealth Well-Being of Passerelles Numériques PH’s Scholars and Faculty

PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) organized a psychological first aid (PFA) training for over 50 scholars and faculty of Passerelles Numériques Philippines (PNPh). The training session was facilitated by millennial psychologist Riyan Portuguez in-person at Smart’s Regional Office in Cebu.

“At PLDT and Smart, we are committed to using our resources and reach to drive meaningful change. By equipping the youth and educators with crucial PFA skills, we hope to de-stigmatize conversations around mental health while building more empathetic and resilient digital communities in the Philippines,” said Marylou Gocotano, PLDT and Smart Stakeholder Management Visayas Relations Head.

PNPh is a Cebu-based non-profit organization that provides scholarships in IT-related fields to select youth who come from underprivileged backgrounds.

“On behalf of PNPh and our country representative, Luchi Flores, we thank PLDT and Smart for this meaningful partnership that focuses on promoting mental health awareness among our scholars. Through this Psychological First Aid training, our scholars gained a deeper understanding of how they can extend help to their friends, family members, or fellow scholars who are dealing with mental health-related concerns, making our community a safe space for all,” said Alreen Omang, PNPh Partnerships and External Relations Officer.

A fundamental part of the PLDT Group’s advocacy to promote and encourage digital wellness, the PFA training equipped the student-scholars and faculty members with skills to provide initial support to peers experiencing emotional distress. It upskilled participants with practical stress management, referral techniques, and various techniques to provide initial psychological support.

Mark Kevin Chavez, a first-year college scholar taking up Associate in Computer Technology in Software Development at the University of San Jose Recoletos said he is grateful for the chance to participate in the PFA training. “This motivated me to continue taking care of myself and my mental well-being, as well as provide proper support to others with mental health needs, so that we can all be better every day,” he added.

This mental health training for PNPH scholars and faculty is part of PLDT and Smart’s sustained digital wellness campaign, focused on responsible online behavior and emotional resilience. These initiatives help underscore PLDT and Smart’s contribution to the Philippines’ attainment of UN Sustainable Development Goal #3: Good Health and Well-being.

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.

PLDT, Smart Vow to Continue Transforming Lives with SWEEP

PLDT and its wireless unit Smart celebrated its 20th year promoting technology and innovation with the Philippines’ colleges and universities with the Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program (SWEEP).

“We recognize how conscious today’s youth are of the world they live in. They want to have a hand in shaping their own future and that of the world’s. We hope to help them reach these goals through SWEEP,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Management Team at PLDT and Smart.

By promoting a culture of innovation among schools and universities and encouraging more Filipino students to get into Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math or STEM and ICT-related courses, SWEEP also aims to bring long-lasting impact to communities through technology.

SWEEP also paved the way for Innovation Generation (InnoGen), an innovation grant program for tech-savvy college and senior high school students who strive to become digital changemakers.

Team SenOptica from Talavera Senior High School in Talavera, Nueva Ecija, one of the winners from InnoGen’s latest season, shared how present and emerging technologies led them to develop their product, a wearable sensor-based assistive device for people with visual impairment.

"Their stories became the driving force behind our human-centric approach to innovation, emphasizing the importance of empathy in our work. It was in these moments that we realized that innovation is not just about technology; it's about understanding the needs of the people we aim to serve,” said 18-year-old Angel Hannah Rayo, SenOptica Developer.

“PLDT and Smart helped us transform our idea into a real-world solution that could truly make a difference in people's lives, especially for people with visual impairment,” she added.

22-year-old Prince Ramirez of Wesleyan University Philippines also shared how PLDT, and Smart enabled them to develop TARALIBOT to bring long-lasting impact.

“TARALIBOT aims to empower local and indigenous merchants, who often lack marketing resources, by giving them an online platform and helping them reach a larger audience to bridge this gap. We hope to bring change where local business are given equal opportunities to thrive in the digital economy,” said Prince.

Through the years, the PLDT Group has underscored the value of inclusive learning and industry-academe linkages like SWEEP, particularly to promote STEM education in the country. This commitment also supports UNSDG #4: Quality Education and is aligned with the vision of the Philippine Government-mandated Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC). As one of the founding members under the Digital Infrastructure pillar of PSAC, PLDT aims to help narrow the digital divide by creating more STEM experts and upskilling more Filipinos toward jobs of the future.

PLDT, Smart Showcase Best Practices in Driving Culture of Innovation and Learning

Leading integrated telco PLDT Inc (PLDT) and its wireless subsidiary Smart Communications, Inc (Smart) are fostering a culture of learning and innovation within the Group by upskilling their employees and harnessing internal platforms to make workflows within the company more seamless.

At the recent “Transform the World of Work at ACHIEVE: Manila” forum hosted by software company ServiceNow, PLDT and Smart Executives Joseph Sermonia and Kristine Hung shared PLDT and Smart's journey in embracing low-code and no-code platforms, which have led to reduced costs, improved productivity and employee engagement, as the Group continues to look for ways to optimize its processes.

"Our strategy is simple: Modernize, transform and innovate. We want to modernize our legacy applications and align it with our org-wide cloud strategy. We want to transform our company culture into one that is more service-oriented. We also have to innovate--we have to continuously improve and transform great ideas into reality," said Sermonia, a Platform Architect at PLDT.

Hung, Project Manager for PLDT and Smart's Citizen Development Program, said the rise of "citizen developers" or non-technical employees who are empowered to be change makers and enabled to build automations using no-code or low-code IT-governed platforms will also help free up other IT personnel within the company to handle more complex deliverables and innovations.

"Our vision for the program is to empower anyone in the organization to deliver innovative ideas as a Citizen Developer using no-code/low-code technology, and to bridge the gap between the growing demand to deliver more digital solutions and innovation with improved speed and agility," she said.

Launched in 2022, PLDT and Smart's Citizen Developer program was overseen by the Group's IT team and has produced more than 200 Citizen Developers, with over 100 automation ideas submitted.

Hung cited as an example the impact of the first applications built by Properties and Facilities Management (PFM) Citizen Developers. "With the first applications built 100% by PFM Citizen Developers, the team became more agile and able to process renewals and reports in a shorter amount of time, ahead of time and 100% compliant," she said.

"This also enabled them to focus on the upkeep of PLDT and Smart’s site equipment and facilities, with their ad hoc activity of monitoring due dates and report consolidation already automated. Centralization of data repository has also provided management with a more cohesive and comprehensive nationwide view of real-time information, allowing them to forecast trends and future expenses," she added.

On the other hand, Sermonia also cited that the Group’s implementation of a unified IT service management platform has reduced the number of email requests by 88%, nearly doubling case resolution rate, and reducing ticket backlog by a third.

These initiatives to improve internal processes by leveraging technology are fundamental to the aspirational PLDT 2025 vision and strategy laid out by its President and CEO Alfredo S. Panlilio.

Under PLDT’s 2025 vision, the company aims to further strengthen its standing as a premier workplace in the country, bring the best experience to its customers, and establish industry-leading operational excellence across the group. This is also aligned with the Company’s purpose to inspire innovation and meaningful connections.

PLDT, Smart, TikTok Shop Scale Digital Upskilling, Reaching more MSMEs and Coops Nationwide

PLDT and Smart have expanded their eBiznovation initiative, a digital upskilling-to-ecommerce program that aims to provide local entrepreneurs, cooperatives and Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), with the right digital tools to help them grow their businesses online.

Scaling up eBiznovation, PLDT and Smart have started utilizing other platforms to promote the program and encourage more partners to extend opportunities from digitalization among all sectors.

“At PLDT and Smart, we believe that collaboration is key to advancing the goals of eBiznovation and achieving them more efficiently. By working with like-minded partners from various industries, we are able to boost our efforts to digitally upskill and assist local enterprises, helping them to increase productivity and income through digital technology," said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and head of Stakeholder Management at PLDT and Smart.

Leaders and experts from the technology industry joined the discourse on the vital role of supporting small- to medium-scale local enterprises and their contribution towards the country’s economic growth at the recent Philippine Digital Convention 2023 (PH Digicon 2023) organized by PLDT Enterprise.

“Our clients and partners have so far done an amazing job in driving the evolving digital landscape of the MSMEs. During this gathering at Digicon, PLDT Enterprise recognizes and celebrates MSMEs as the life force of our country,” said Euan Rex Toralballa, Customer Relationship Management Head for Luzon at PLDT Enterprise.

"TikTok Shop connects Filipino MSMEs with the wider TikTok community, allowing them to reach a broader market and expand from offline to online. Through PLDT and Smart's eBiznovation Buy Local Bazaar on TikTok Shop and in partnership with the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Trade and Industry, we have enabled Filipino farmers from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao to gain direct access to consumers and expand their revenue opportunities by onboarding them onto TikTok Shop. We are committed to building the digital capacity of Filipino MSMEs and enabling them to grow and expand their business," said Toff Rada, Head of Public Policy for TikTok in the Philippines.

A digital convention where global industry mavens, thought leaders, and pioneers in technology come together to help drive technological enablement for enterprises, PH Digicon has served as a hub for innovation, digital transformation, and technology advancements in the Philippines.

The PLDT Group continuously finds ways to promote inclusive technologies that can help boost livelihood opportunities among farmers and fisherfolk, leaving no one behind. The eBiznovation program also highlights the PLDT Group’s support to the government’s Go Digital Pilipinas Movement as a founding member of the Digital Infrastructure pillar of the Private Sector Advisory Council, which seeks to uplift the lives of Filipinos through adoption of digital services.

PLDT, Smart Mark 20th Year with SWEEP, Inspiring Youth on Tech and Innovation

PLDT and Smart forge ahead in guiding youth towards the future of technology and innovation. 

Demonstrating its commitment towards academic and professional excellence, the Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program or SWEEP, the first and longest-running industry-academe linkage in the Philippines, is now on its 20th year. 

 

“When we launched SWEEP or the Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program in 2003, our dream was to make bold changes in the industry, by promoting a culture of innovation in schools and by encouraging more Filipino students to get into STEM and ICT-related courses,” said Cathy Yap-Yang, FVP and Head of Group Corporate Communications at PLDT and Smart. 

 

SWEEP has become an avenue for long-term learning and discovery about technology as a catalyst for growth and development among the youth. 

 

“We continue to work closely with the country’s leading colleges and universities. We have likewise succeeded in producing industry-ready graduates to meet the increasingly digital demands of our customers, our communities, and our country,” said Roderick S. Santiago, Head of Network at PLDT and Smart. 

  

SWEEP has become an avenue for long-term learning and discovery about technology as a catalyst for growth and development among the youth. 

   

“We believe that continuous learning and exposure to emerging technologies, through SWEEP, can equip the youth towards finding innovative solutions that can help create positive impact for present and future generations,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Management Team at PLDT and Smart.   

  

To officially celebrate SWEEP’s two decades and the program’s milestones, the PLDT Group has just concluded a learning and networking summit called SWEEP@20 and beyond, for its partner schools this month.    

  

Providing a peek into the future, the PLDT Group has discussed more about how 5G, AI or artificial intelligence, XR or extended reality, cloud computing, and advanced networks can help create a sustainable and more inclusive world for all Filipinos and leave no one behind. 

   

Through the years, the PLDT Group has underscored the value of inclusive learning and industry-academe linkages like SWEEP, particularly to promote STEM education in the country. This commitment also supports UNSDG #4: Quality Education and is aligned with the vision of the Philippine Government-mandated Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC). As one of the founding members under the Digital Infrastructure pillar of PSAC, PLDT aims to help narrow the digital divide by creating more STEM experts and upskilling more Filipinos toward jobs of the future. 

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.