SOCIAL MEDIA

Coca-Cola Philippines Tops Trust and Value Rankings in Synergy-YouGov Awards

Tuesday, June 23, 2026


Building consumer trust takes more than memorable advertising campaigns. It requires consistency, meaningful action, and the ability to stay relevant in people's everyday lives. For Coca-Cola Philippines, those efforts recently translated into major recognition from Filipino consumers.

At the 2026 Synergy-YouGov Awards, Coca-Cola Philippines earned two notable distinctions, securing the top spot for Net Reputation among Sustainability Advocates and being recognized as the Most Improved Brand in Net Perceived Value within the Non-Alcoholic Beverages sector.

The awards reflect how consumers view the company's commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and delivering value beyond its products.

Coca-Cola Philippines Earns Dual Recognition at the 2026 Synergy-YouGov Awards

Held on April 24, 2026, the Synergy-YouGov Awards recognize brands that have demonstrated strong performance in reputation, value, and consumer sentiment based on extensive market research and consumer insights.

This year, Coca-Cola Philippines emerged as one of the event's standout winners after receiving two significant honors:

  • #1 in Net Reputation among Sustainability Advocates
  • #1 Most Improved in Net Perceived Value in the Non-Alcoholic Beverages category

These recognitions highlight the company's ability to strengthen consumer trust while improving perceptions of value among Filipino customers.

More importantly, the awards are based on consumer feedback, making them a reflection of how people genuinely view and experience the brand.

In today's marketplace, consumers increasingly expect companies to demonstrate responsibility beyond their products and services.

Coca-Cola Philippines' top ranking in Net Reputation among Sustainability Advocates signals that many Filipinos view the company as a brand they are proud to support and associate with.

Net Reputation measures positive and negative sentiments toward a brand, including whether consumers feel confidence, pride, or trust in a company's actions and values.

According to Maria Christine Ponce-Garcia, Director for Public Affairs, Sustainability and Communications at Coca-Cola Philippines, the recognition reflects years of effort invested in building authentic relationships with communities.

“This award isn't just recognition. It's a reflection of trust. The kind that takes years to build and speaks louder than any campaign ever could. To be seen as a company people are proud to be part of — that means everything," Ponce-Garcia said.

The recognition also highlights the impact of Coca-Cola Philippines' sustainability programs, including initiatives focused on waste management, water stewardship, and community wellbeing.

These efforts continue to play an important role in strengthening the company's credibility and long-term connection with consumers.

Sustainability as a Driver of Brand Trust

Today's consumers are paying closer attention to how brands contribute to society and the environment.

For Coca-Cola Philippines, sustainability has become a key pillar of its business strategy. Through ongoing environmental and social programs, the company seeks to create positive impact while addressing issues that matter to local communities.

"Being a trusted company means contributing in ways that are meaningful not just to our business, but to the communities we serve," Ponce-Garcia added.

As sustainability increasingly influences purchasing decisions, companies that demonstrate genuine commitment to positive change are often rewarded with stronger consumer loyalty.

Consumers See Greater Value in Coca-Cola Philippines

Alongside its reputation win, Coca-Cola Philippines also achieved the highest year-on-year improvement in Net Perceived Value within the Non-Alcoholic Beverages category between 2024 and 2025.

Net Perceived Value goes beyond affordability. It measures whether consumers believe a brand consistently delivers on its promises and provides worthwhile benefits relative to their expectations.

The recognition suggests that more Filipinos see Coca-Cola as a brand that offers dependable quality, accessibility, and relevance in their daily lives.

According to Ponce-Garcia, value extends far beyond pricing.

“Value was never about the price tag. It's about what people feel when they choose you — the confidence that they made the right call. That means delivering quality without compromise, staying within reach, and being there for the everyday moments that shape people's lives.”

This perception of value is built through years of maintaining product quality while remaining connected to Filipino culture and everyday experiences.

A Brand Embedded in Everyday Filipino Moments

One reason Coca-Cola continues to resonate with consumers is its longstanding presence in celebrations, family gatherings, meals, and everyday routines.

The company has consistently positioned itself as more than a beverage brand. It aims to be part of moments that bring people together, whether during major celebrations or simple daily interactions.

Ponce-Garcia emphasized that consistency plays a critical role in maintaining that connection.

“We believe value is built by consistently delivering what people expect, showing up in ways that are reliable, relevant, and part of daily life. That’s what allows Coca-Cola to be not just a product, but part of everyday moments, shared meals, celebrations, and simple, everyday connections.”

As consumer expectations continue to evolve, brands that remain relatable and dependable often gain stronger emotional connections with their audiences.

Understanding the Synergy-YouGov Awards

The Synergy-YouGov Awards combine the strategic communications expertise of Synergy Market Research + Strategic Consultancy with the consumer intelligence capabilities of YouGov.

The awards assess brand performance across key indicators such as reputation, value perception, and consumer sentiment.

Unlike recognition based solely on industry evaluations, these rankings are rooted in consumer data collected over time, providing valuable insights into how people perceive brands in the real world.

For Coca-Cola Philippines, the dual recognition serves as validation that its efforts in sustainability, community engagement, and consumer experience continue to resonate with Filipinos.

Looking Ahead: Continuing to Earn Consumer Confidence

While awards celebrate achievements, they also set expectations for continued improvement.

For Coca-Cola Philippines, the recognition reinforces the importance of listening to consumers, staying accountable, and continuously finding ways to create positive impact.

Ponce-Garcia sees the awards not as a finish line but as motivation for future progress.

"We know that trust is earned and that we must continue to prove it. We will continue to keep improving, to keep listening, and to continue delivering value for our consumers and for society, to refresh the world and make a difference."

As brands compete for consumer attention and loyalty, trust and value remain two of the most important differentiators. Coca-Cola Philippines' latest Synergy-YouGov Awards recognition suggests that for many Filipinos, the company continues to deliver both.
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Eastern Communications Supports Mangrove Rehabilitation Efforts in Bacolod


Protecting the environment has become a shared responsibility among businesses, communities, and local governments. As climate-related challenges continue to impact coastal areas across the Philippines, initiatives that strengthen environmental resilience are becoming increasingly important.

Demonstrating its commitment to sustainability, Eastern Communications recently joined fellow members of the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) consortium in a mangrove tree-planting activity in Bacolod City. The initiative underscores the growing role of private sector organizations in supporting climate action, biodiversity conservation, and community development.

Eastern Communications Joins PDSCN Mangrove Tree-Planting Initiative

On May 22, Eastern Communications participated in a mangrove tree-planting activity held in Purok Calubay, Bacolod City.

The environmental initiative forms part of the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) consortium's post-Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) commitments. Alongside consortium members Globe and InfiniVAN, Eastern Communications took part in efforts aimed at restoring and protecting coastal ecosystems while supporting long-term sustainability goals.

The activity was organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) in partnership with the Bago City Local Government Unit, the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Bago, and various community stakeholders.

Through collaborative environmental programs like this, organizations are helping strengthen climate resilience in vulnerable coastal communities.

Why Mangrove Restoration Matters for Coastal Communities

Mangroves are often considered one of nature's most effective defenses against climate-related threats.

During the activity, Bago City Environment and Management Office (CEMO) representative Rex Magbanua led an orientation highlighting the critical role mangrove forests play in protecting shorelines from storm surges, coastal erosion, and flooding.

He referenced the devastating effects of Super Typhoon Odette in 2021, which severely impacted Bacolod City and many parts of Negros Occidental, as a reminder of the need to invest in climate adaptation and environmental protection initiatives.

Healthy mangrove ecosystems provide several benefits, including:

  • Protecting coastlines from strong waves and storm surges
  • Reducing soil erosion and flooding risks
  • Supporting marine biodiversity and fish habitats
  • Improving carbon sequestration and climate mitigation efforts
  • Sustaining local livelihoods dependent on coastal resources

For communities like Purok Calubay, these environmental benefits directly contribute to both ecological protection and economic stability.

A Community-Based Approach to Climate Resilience

Mangrove tree planting is more than an environmental activity. It is a community-driven effort that creates long-term value for people and ecosystems alike.

By restoring mangrove forests, local communities gain stronger natural protection against extreme weather events while preserving habitats that support fisheries and other coastal industries.

At the same time, these initiatives encourage collaboration between government agencies, private organizations, and residents, fostering a shared commitment to environmental stewardship.

Programs such as these demonstrate how sustainability efforts can create meaningful social impact while supporting broader climate resilience goals.

Eastern Communications Reinforces Its Commitment to Sustainability

For Eastern Communications, environmental initiatives are part of a broader mission to create positive impact beyond connectivity.

Sharing the company's perspective on the activity, Jed Estanislao, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer of Eastern Communications, emphasized the importance of sustainability-focused partnerships and community engagement.

"This initiative reflects our belief that creating meaningful impact goes beyond providing reliable and responsive connectivity," said Estanislao. "By supporting sustainability-driven partnerships and community-centered programs, we aim to help strengthen environmental resilience, empower local communities, and contribute to long-term sustainable development."

The participation in the mangrove rehabilitation effort aligns with the company's ongoing corporate social responsibility initiatives aimed at supporting both environmental and social progress.

Building a More Sustainable Future Through Collaboration

As businesses continue to expand and innovate, sustainability is becoming an increasingly important measure of long-term success.

Eastern Communications' involvement in the PDSCN mangrove tree-planting activity highlights how private sector organizations can contribute to environmental conservation while helping communities prepare for climate-related challenges.

By supporting programs that protect natural ecosystems and strengthen local resilience, companies can play a meaningful role in creating lasting benefits for future generations.

As Eastern Communications continues to grow its presence across the Philippines, the company remains focused on combining future-ready connectivity solutions with initiatives that help protect the environment, empower communities, and create sustainable value for both people and the planet.
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FedEx Helps APAC Businesses Prepare for New EU Import Rules Ahead of 2026 Changes


Businesses across Asia Pacific that ship products to Europe are facing a major regulatory shift. Beginning July 1, 2026, the European Union will remove its de minimis duty exemption, introducing new customs requirements and additional costs for cross-border shipments entering the region.

As companies prepare for the transition, FedEx is expanding its support efforts to help businesses navigate compliance challenges, avoid shipping disruptions, and continue growing in key international markets. Through digital solutions, expert guidance, and enhanced logistics connectivity, the global transportation company aims to make the transition smoother for organizations of all sizes.

APAC Businesses Aware of EU De Minimis Changes, But Many Are Not Yet Ready

While awareness of the upcoming EU de minimis policy change is relatively high, readiness levels tell a different story.

FedEx recently engaged more than 5,000 businesses across 12 Asia Pacific markets through a series of educational webinars focused on customs compliance and evolving trade regulations. The sessions included participants ranging from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to multinational corporations.

Insights gathered after the webinars revealed that although many companies understand the changes ahead, a significant number still need additional preparation.

According to the findings:

  • 59% of APAC businesses say they are fully or mostly prepared
  • 41% remain in the early stages of preparation or are not yet ready

Several challenges continue to hinder readiness among businesses, including:

  • Limited access to practical and actionable compliance guidance (27%)
  • Lack of in-house expertise on EU customs regulations (24%)
  • Difficulty keeping up with changing requirements and implementation timelines (22%)

Without adequate preparation, businesses could face customs delays, higher costs, and shipment disruptions when the new regulations take effect.

New Compliance Requirements Could Increase Costs for Exporters

The removal of the de minimis exemption is prompting many companies to reassess how they approach European markets.

Nearly half of surveyed businesses, or 45%, identified EU customs regulations as a barrier to growth. Among the biggest concerns are rising landed costs and increased compliance responsibilities.

Businesses cited the following challenges:

  • Higher landed costs (24%)
  • Additional compliance requirements (23%)

As a result, more than one-third of respondents, or 36%, have already adjusted or are planning to adjust pricing strategies for products sold into the European Union.

The regulatory changes are also influencing broader trade decisions. Around half of businesses surveyed say they are re-evaluating trade corridors and market priorities as they explore growth opportunities outside Europe.

Among companies considering alternative markets, Intra-Asia trade emerged as the leading option at 28%, followed by the United States at 23%.

These shifts highlight the growing importance of resilient supply chains and strong global logistics networks in an increasingly complex trade environment.

FedEx Expands Support for Businesses Navigating EU Customs Changes

Recognizing the challenges businesses face, FedEx is rolling out additional resources designed to simplify compliance and keep shipments moving efficiently.

Digital Tools Designed for New EU Requirements

As customs regulations become more data-driven, many businesses are looking for technology solutions that can streamline compliance processes.

FedEx reports that 29% of surveyed businesses identified digital customs and compliance tools as a top priority.

To address this need, the company's shipping, invoicing, and customs clearance platforms have been aligned with upcoming EU requirements. These systems are designed to help customers manage documentation more effectively and reduce the risk of delays at the border.

Access to Expert Guidance and Regulatory Support

Beyond technology, businesses are seeking practical support to understand the new rules.

FedEx has launched a proactive customer assistance program that includes:

  • Detailed guidance on Product Identifier (PID) requirements
  • Support for businesses using the Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS) framework
  • Direct access to customs clearance and compliance specialists
  • Assistance with classification, documentation, and customs procedures
  • Dedicated EU de minimis information hubs across APAC markets featuring updated resources, videos, and trade insights

The initiative aims to provide businesses with clearer, step-by-step guidance as they adapt to changing regulations.

Stronger Asia-Europe Connectivity to Support Trade Growth

In addition to compliance support, FedEx continues to invest in network capacity between Asia and Europe.

Over the past year, the company added five additional weekly flights connecting Asia and Europe, increasing shipping capacity and providing greater routing flexibility.

Today, FedEx operates a total of 26 weekly flights supporting shipments between the Asia Pacific region and Europe. This expanded network enables express deliveries in as little as 48 hours, helping businesses maintain speed and reliability despite evolving customs requirements.

FedEx Sees Compliance Readiness as Key to Future Growth

According to Salil Chari, President of Asia Pacific at FedEx, businesses must balance regulatory compliance with growth ambitions as global trade continues to evolve.

He explained that companies across the region are navigating increasingly complex regulations while pursuing opportunities in international markets.

"As global trade continues to evolve, businesses across Asia Pacific are navigating increasing regulatory complexity while pursuing growth across key markets," said Salil Chari, president, Asia Pacific, FedEx. "At FedEx, we combine deep trade expertise, digital capabilities, and the strength of our global network to help businesses adapt quickly, operate with confidence, and continue growing across Europe and beyond."

Preparing for the Next Phase of EU Trade

The upcoming removal of the EU de minimis exemption represents one of the most significant customs changes affecting exporters in recent years. For businesses that rely on European customers, early preparation could help minimize disruptions, avoid unexpected costs, and maintain a competitive edge.

With new compliance requirements on the horizon, access to expert guidance, digital customs tools, and reliable logistics support will play an increasingly important role in helping businesses continue trading confidently across Europe and beyond.
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Coca-Cola signs with Pepper Lunch Philippines as official beverage partner


Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP) formalizes its partnership with Pepper Lunch Philippines as its official beverage partner. Present during the signing were CCEAP’s National Commercial Vice President Frank Garcia, Modern Trade Director April Apsay, National On-Premise Head Cindy Banaria, and Business Development Manager Mack Tayag, together with Pepper Lunch Philippines’ Chief Executive Officer Cecile Zamora, Chief Operations Officer Gretz Rivera, and General Manager Benjamin Van Straten. Diners of Pepper Lunch Philippines, one of the country’s most loved Japanese restaurant chains known for the original “do-it-yourself” and “fast-steak” concept, can now enjoy their favorite sizzling meals paired with the refreshing and iconic portfolio of Coca-Cola beverages across its branches nationwide.

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Condominium Living Across Contemporary Lifestyles: Vista Residences and the Relevance of Urban Lifescapes

Sunday, June 21, 2026


Condominium living in Metro Manila has evolved beyond being a compact residence in a central location. For the upper-middle market segment, it becomes a decision driven by career, connectivity, convenience, and investment choices. Residents consider high-rise developments because they support the way they live, learn, and lead.

With vertical communities across CBDs, transport hubs, and university clusters, Vista Residences serves a range of lifescapes: seasoned professionals, growing households, students, and real estate investors seeking rental returns. Across these segments, condominium living becomes more than a matter of address; it becomes a model for efficient lifestyles and enduring property value.

Professional pace

For starting and seasoned professionals, living in CBDs is a practical assurance. A condominium close to corporate centers allows residents to reduce commute time, remain connected to career opportunities, and enjoy urban comforts. Long-term lessees, like consultants, expatriates, and career professionals, and short-term stays by travelers and MICE participants also benefit from the city activity surrounding the locations.

Wil Tower in Quezon City; The Currency and Spectrum in Ortigas Center; Vista Shaw and Crosswalk Tower in Mandaluyong, the Best New Launch Condominium Development at the DOT Property Southeast Asia Awards 2025; Mosaic, KL Mosaic, and Salcedo Square in Makati; and Avant in BGC, respond to residents whose lives are connected to financial frontiers, entrepreneurial ecosystems, and lifestyle landmarks.

Connected convenience


For growing families, transit-oriented developments (TODs) enable condominium living to meet citywide commitments.

The Symphony Towers and Pinecrest in Quezon City, Laureano di Trevi Towers in Makati, and The Courtyard in Taguig address this need for mobility. These towers serve working parents and young families commuting to schools, supermarkets, and support services.

Academic advantage


Every year, students and faculty, reviewees, medical trainees, and new professionals join university clusters where a condominium becomes a setting for study, security, and self-sufficiency.

Vista Residences serves communities connected to colleges and cultural centers. Vista Taft, Vista GL Taft, Plumeria Heights, award-winning Kizuna Heights, and Kinsan Heights, Sky Arts Manila, Vista Heights, Tennyson Heights, Vista Recto, Bradbury Heights, Crown Tower University Belt, and 878 España respond to residential demand within scholastic institutions. Along Katipunan Avenue, Vista 309 Katipunan, Vista Pointe, and Hawthorne Heights serve a market shaped by educational institutions and early-career pursuits.

The University Series condominiums are planned for proximity with purpose. Living near schools can improve punctuality, support stronger study habits, and provide opportunities for campus involvement. Parents gain peace of mind from children’s secure living arrangements. Residents benefit from access to learning lounges, colleges, and progression pathways. For investors, this supports recurring revenue, with demand across different life stages.

Cohesive comforts


Amenities function as support systems for work-life balance, recreation, study, and social connection. Swimming pools, gyms, and function rooms slow the pace of city life. For commuting families, amenities allow residents to rest and reconnect without leaving their home. For those on campuses, study spaces support concentration and confidence.

Vista Residences vertical communities offer more than condominium living; they create considered, connected, and complete environments that consolidate the elements of contemporary lifestyles.

Learn more about Vista Residences. Visit www.vistaresidences.com.ph and follow @VistaResidencesOfficial.
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inDrive Awards PHP 2 Million in Driver Incentives and Expands Support Programs

Thursday, June 18, 2026


Ride-hailing drivers play a critical role in keeping Philippine cities moving, but rising fuel prices, traffic congestion, and increasing operational costs continue to put pressure on their daily earnings. As these challenges persist, many transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers are seeking platforms that not only provide earning opportunities but also offer meaningful support beyond the road.

Recognizing these realities, inDrive recently concluded its Platinum Driver Giveaway, a nationwide rewards initiative that distributed more than PHP 2 million worth of incentives, fuel vouchers, livelihood packages, and major prizes to top-performing partner drivers across Metro Manila, Cebu, and Bacolod.

More than just a rewards campaign, the program highlights inDrive's broader commitment to improving driver welfare, increasing earning opportunities, and investing in long-term professional development.

inDrive Rewards Top Drivers with Over PHP 2 Million in Incentives

The Platinum Driver Giveaway was designed to recognize drivers who consistently demonstrated strong performance and excellent service on the platform.

Throughout the campaign period, partner drivers who achieved Platinum status became eligible for weekly raffle draws, giving them the chance to win various rewards aimed at helping offset daily expenses and improve their overall financial situation.

In total, 319 partner drivers received prizes that included:

  • Fuel vouchers
  • Laptops
  • Livelihood packages
  • Major raffle prizes

The campaign culminated with several lucky winners taking home some of the program's most exciting rewards.

BYD Seal 5 DMi Headlines Major Prizes


Among the grand prizes awarded was a BYD Seal 5 DMi, providing one fortunate driver with a significant upgrade that could potentially support future mobility and livelihood opportunities.

Other major prizes included:

  • M25 EV Motorbike
  • Sari-sari store livelihood packages
  • Additional special incentives

The livelihood packages were specifically designed to help families establish supplementary income sources beyond ride-hailing operations.

Supporting Drivers Amid Rising Fuel Costs

The campaign comes at a time when many drivers continue to face higher fuel expenses and increasing costs associated with daily transport operations.

According to Vanessa Taqueban, Driver Operations Lead for inDrive Philippines, the initiative was inspired by the resilience and dedication shown by partner drivers despite these challenges.


"Being a TNVS driver comes with its share of challenges, including heavy traffic and expensive fuel. But despite these hurdles, inDrive drivers still show up every single day. This inspired us to come up with this Platinum Driver Giveaway to thank them for their dedication to the job and encourage them to keep on improving their road performance and passenger service," she said.

The rewards program was designed not only to recognize top performers but also to provide practical financial assistance during a period of rising operating costs.

Driver Earnings Increased During the Campaign

Beyond the prizes themselves, the Platinum Driver Campaign also delivered measurable financial benefits for participating drivers.

According to inDrive, partner drivers boosted their weekly earnings by approximately 12% during the campaign period.

The company noted that these improvements were achieved without requiring drivers to spend additional hours on the road, suggesting that many participants were able to improve efficiency while maximizing available opportunities on the platform.

The campaign's success also encouraged more drivers to strive for Platinum status.

Since the initiative's launch, the number of top-performing Platinum drivers has increased by 130% between July 2025 and June 2026.

inDrive Sees Strong Growth in Its Driver Community

As demand for reliable transportation services continues across major urban centers, inDrive has experienced significant growth in its driver network.

As of June 2026, the platform reported that its active driver base had grown by more than 100% compared to May 2025.

This expansion reflects the increasing demand for ride-hailing services as well as the growing appeal of flexible earning opportunities within the mobility sector.

For passengers, a larger driver pool can contribute to shorter wait times and improved service availability.

For drivers, it creates opportunities to participate in a platform that continues to invest in incentive programs and support initiatives.

More Earning Opportunities Through Driver-First Programs

The Platinum Driver Giveaway is just one component of inDrive's broader strategy to support partner drivers.

The company continues to implement several programs aimed at helping drivers increase take-home earnings while reducing operating costs.

Seasonal Incentives and Fuel Support

Throughout the year, inDrive provides additional incentives and top-up bonuses designed to supplement driver income during key periods.

Fuel voucher assistance is also offered to help drivers manage rising transportation costs.

Green Zone Program

One of the platform's most notable initiatives is the Green Zone Program.

Through this program, selected high-demand areas feature reduced commission rates as low as 1%, allowing drivers to keep up to 99% of their earnings from qualifying trips.

This approach helps maximize driver income while maintaining service availability in busy locations.

TESDA Partnership Supports Driver Upskilling

Looking beyond short-term incentives, inDrive is also investing in professional development opportunities for partner drivers.

The company recently partnered with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to launch the Driver Academy.

The initiative will provide drivers with access to training programs focused on:

  • Professional development
  • Road safety
  • Service quality improvement
  • Long-term earning opportunities

The goal is to equip drivers with valuable skills that can enhance their careers both within and beyond the ride-hailing industry.

By combining financial incentives with educational opportunities, the program seeks to create more sustainable livelihood pathways for drivers and their families.

Building a Stronger Driver Community

According to Sofia Guinto, Country Manager of inDrive Philippines, strengthening the Platinum Driver community remains a key priority as the platform expands nationwide.

"As inDrive continues its nationwide expansion, it is vital for us to build a stronger Platinum Driver community, as this can create a more reliable riding experience for our passengers," she explained.

She added that the company plans to continue rewarding loyal and high-performing drivers through strategic incentives while creating more opportunities to improve their earning potential.

Why Driver Welfare Matters in the Ride-Hailing Industry

As the ride-hailing sector continues to evolve, driver welfare is becoming an increasingly important factor in maintaining a reliable transportation ecosystem.

Programs that address earnings, fuel costs, professional development, and long-term financial stability can help improve driver retention while enhancing the overall passenger experience.

Through initiatives such as the Platinum Driver Giveaway, Green Zone Program, and the upcoming Driver Academy with TESDA, inDrive is taking steps to support drivers beyond daily trips and commissions.

For many partner drivers, these programs provide not only additional income opportunities but also valuable resources that can contribute to greater financial security for themselves and their families in the years ahead.
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EastWest Strengthens Wealth Management Expertise Through SMU Executive Program

Tuesday, June 16, 2026


As wealth management becomes increasingly sophisticated, clients are looking for more than investment recommendations. They want advisors who understand their goals, navigate market complexities, and provide guidance they can trust throughout different stages of life.

Recognizing this shift, EastWest has further strengthened its commitment to advisory excellence with the successful graduation of more than 80 bankers from the Singapore Management University (SMU) Wealth Management Programme. The milestone highlights the bank's continued investment in developing highly skilled professionals capable of delivering deeper, client-centered financial advice.

EastWest Celebrates Graduation of Wealth Management Program Participants

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) recently honored over 80 bankers who completed the five-month SMU Wealth Management Programme, an executive learning initiative developed in partnership with SMU Executive Development.

The program brought together participants from various units across the bank and its affiliated businesses, equipping them with advanced skills needed to navigate today's evolving wealth management landscape.

Designed to go beyond traditional product knowledge, the curriculum focused on strengthening capabilities in:

  • Market and product mastery
  • Portfolio construction
  • Investment suitability
  • Duty of care
  • Wealth stewardship
  • High-stakes client conversations
  • Advisory decision-making

The goal was to help bankers transition from transactional product discussions toward more meaningful and trusted advisory relationships with clients.

Investing in People as a Long-Term Strategy

For EastWest, the program reflects a broader philosophy that sustainable growth begins with investing in talent.

According to EastWest CEO Jerry G. Ngo, people remain the institution's most valuable asset despite advancements in banking technology and financial solutions.

“When we began this partnership with SMU, we were making an investment in talent, in capability, and in the next generation of EastWest advisors,” Ngo said.

“EastWest invests in systems, platforms, and products. But our most important investment is in our people, because people build the relationships that define this Bank’s reputation.”

The statement underscores how advisory excellence continues to be a key differentiator in a highly competitive financial services environment.

Building Better Financial Advisors Through Executive Education

The wealth management industry increasingly requires professionals who can balance technical expertise with sound judgment and client empathy.

According to Eddie Tritton, Executive Director of SMU Executive Development, the program was specifically designed to strengthen these capabilities.

“The wealth management landscape requires advisors who can combine market knowledge, client insight, and ethical judgment,” Tritton explained.

He noted that the learning experience was built around practical application rather than theory alone, helping participants navigate real-world client situations where trust, suitability, and long-term stewardship are critical.

By focusing on practical scenarios, the program enabled participants to strengthen both their analytical and interpersonal skills, which are essential components of successful financial advisory relationships.

From Product Discussions to Trusted Financial Guidance

For many participants, the program reinforced the importance of understanding the broader needs and aspirations of clients rather than focusing solely on investment products.

Monina Delartmente, First Vice President and Head of Metro Manila South Region and Business Development, shared that the experience deepened her perspective on the role of a financial advisor.

“The program reminded us that wealth management is about knowing what truly matters to the clients,” Delartmente said.

She added that successful advisory relationships are measured not only by portfolio performance but also by the confidence and peace of mind clients gain from informed financial guidance.

“We learned that a good advisor’s success is defined by how much peace of mind we give our client and how well we can protect them from unnecessary risks. And our impact will not be measured by returns alone, but by the trust our clients place in us.”

Today's investors face a wide range of financial decisions, from wealth preservation and retirement planning to education funding and estate management.

As a result, clients increasingly seek advisors who can provide objective recommendations tailored to their unique circumstances.

Ngo emphasized that trusted advisors often deliver value not by encouraging action, but by helping clients make disciplined decisions.

“Clients need people they can trust. Someone who understands their situation well enough to give honest, considered, and useful advice, even when the honest answer is to wait, to stay the course, or to do something they did not expect,” he said.

“That is what a trusted advisor does, and that is what this program was designed to build.”

Preparing Relationship Managers for Every Stage of Wealth Creation

The graduation ceremony also recognized outstanding project teams that demonstrated excellence in client understanding, portfolio construction, suitability discipline, and advisory judgment.

According to Rafael S. Algarra Jr., Senior Executive Vice President and Head of Financial Markets and Wealth Management, EastWest aims to develop advisors who can guide clients across every stage of their financial journey.

“Our aspiration is to develop Relationship Managers who can become the client’s trusted advisor across financial needs and life stages,” Algarra said.

He explained that effective wealth management extends beyond investment performance and includes broader financial goals such as:

  • Liquidity planning
  • Wealth protection
  • Income generation
  • Long-term growth
  • Retirement preparation
  • Education funding
  • Business succession planning
  • Estate planning
  • Wealth transfer strategies

This holistic approach reflects the growing demand for comprehensive financial advice that adapts to changing life priorities.

Strengthening EastWest's Wealth Management Future

The EastWest-SMU Wealth Management Programme forms part of the bank's larger strategy to strengthen its wealth management business and deepen long-term client relationships.

By investing in professional development and cultivating a culture rooted in trust, suitability, and stewardship, EastWest is positioning its advisors to better serve the increasingly sophisticated needs of Filipino investors.

As wealth management continues to evolve, initiatives like this demonstrate how financial institutions can build stronger client relationships by focusing not only on products and performance, but also on expertise, integrity, and meaningful financial guidance.
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