SOCIAL MEDIA

Next-Gen Negosyo: 5 Tips to Sustain SMEs’ Growth this 2026

Sunday, March 8, 2026


Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the driving force of the Philippine economy, making up 63% of the country’s total employment and contributing 36% to its gross value added, according to the World Bank Group. As 2026 unfolds, SMEs must continue to adapt to shifting customer needs and evolving market demands. Here are five practical strategies local businesses can apply to sustain and scale their growth this year:

#1 Upskill to Unlock Growth

Business owners are often jacks-of-all-trades, wearing multiple hats in running their enterprises. To keep up, they must continue investing in upskilling to manage these roles more effectively. Whether it’s improving customer engagement or implementing a new order and payment system, business owners can take advantage of the vast array of online upskilling courses.

#2 Build a Stronger Digital Presence

Filipinos spend an average of 8 hours and 52 minutes online each day, landing the Philippines at third in the world for daily internet use. Not only that, social media is especially powerful in promoting businesses, as 42.5% of Filipinos discover new shops to support there. Thus, a strong digital presence is no longer optional for businesses—it's essential to staying visible and competitive. The visibility boost also turns casual window shoppers into loyal customers, as this fosters a lasting connection online.

For starters, businesses can set up a social media storefront, join an online marketplace, or build a dedicated website. They can also bolster their social media engagement by responding to netizens’ inquiries and posting about new product launches. These steps allow SMEs to reach customers far beyond their immediate neighborhoods and build stronger relationships over time.

#3 Reach Out to Freelancers

The Philippines is home to around 1.5 million active freelancers, making it one of the largest gig economies in the world. SMEs can take advantage of this by tapping services such as virtual assistance, consultation, and graphic design to support their operations. Some businesses can even venture into offering online support services of their own, opening up new revenue streams in the process.

#4 Tap Government and NGO Support

Government agencies and non-government organizations continue to expand their support programs to help SMEs grow their capital and strengthen their operations. These span funding assistance, training programs, and upskilling initiatives.

For instance, the Department of Science and Technology-NCR (DOST-NCR) has launched the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SET-UP). The program offers seed funding, equipment upgrading, and business upscaling support for entrepreneurs.

Programs such as this showcase the breadth of support SMEs can tap to reach more customers and grow more sustainably. Beyond funding, they also open doors for networking and partnership opportunities.

#5 Find Partners Who Value Your Growth

Partnerships matter—and so does having the right network. SMEs benefit from building both on-ground and peer-to-peer communities. These networks can become invaluable resources for business owners for knowledge-building, potential collaborations, or even new business opportunities.

One partner SMEs can tap is EastWest Ageas, a fast-rising insurance company. Through EastWest Ageas’ simple plans, business owners can protect and grow their enterprises’ capital and build emergency funds. Plans such as Future Assure and Future Assure Max help policyholders invest in EastWest Ageas’ diverse fund choices and work toward maximizing their investment returns. These features help entrepreneurs tailor their financial strategy to what their business needs the most.

To stay competitive in 2026, SMEs must continue recalibrating their strategies to keep pace with change. By adapting to emerging and shifting trends and reaching out to like-minded partners, SMEs can turn today’s momentum into long-term, lasting impact.
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Jollibee, DepEd Launch SHS QSR Curriculum


Preparing students for real-world careers requires more than classroom lessons. It also requires strong collaboration between educators and industry leaders who understand what today’s workplaces demand. In a significant step toward bridging that gap, the Jollibee Group has partnered with the Department of Education to co-develop a specialized Senior High School elective focused on the quick service restaurant industry.

The initiative introduces students to the fundamentals of the QSR sector while giving them hands-on work immersion opportunities. By combining classroom learning with real-life exposure, the program aims to equip Filipino students with practical skills and workplace readiness before they graduate.

A New SHS Elective Focused on the QSR Industry

The program was officially launched during the DepEd SHS QSR Curriculum and Work Immersion Workgroup Kickoff held on January 15, 2026, at Jollibee Plaza in Pasig City.

This collaboration will introduce a Senior High School Quick Service Restaurant Tech Pro elective aligned with the country’s strengthened SHS curriculum. The course will provide students with a deeper understanding of how the QSR industry operates, particularly in fast-paced environments that require efficiency, teamwork, discipline, and consistency.

Through the program, students will learn the systems and operational standards commonly practiced in restaurant chains, helping them build foundational knowledge relevant to service-oriented careers.

Combining Classroom Learning with Work Immersion

A key feature of the initiative is its dual structure, which integrates academic learning with real-world experience.

The first component focuses on the classroom-based QSR curriculum, where students will study industry fundamentals and develop essential service skills. The second component is the Work Immersion Program, which allows learners to apply these lessons through structured in-store exposure.

This hands-on training is designed to help students experience the realities of the workplace while learning professional behaviors that are valued in the service industry.

Developing Future-Ready Skills for Students

During the launch event, Ruth Angeles, Chief Human Resources Officer of the Jollibee Group Philippines and HR Head for Jollibee International, highlighted how the two program components work together to prepare students for employment. She explained that the curriculum and work immersion are designed to ensure that learners graduate with practical and future-ready competencies that allow them to enter the workforce with confidence.

Angeles also noted that the broader objective is to help close the gap between education and employment by strengthening workforce readiness among young Filipinos. By engaging experienced professionals within the Jollibee Group, the program aims to translate industry knowledge into learning modules that meet academic standards set by DepEd.

Strengthening Education and Industry Collaboration

Joseph Tanbuntiong, CEO of the Jollibee Group Philippines and Head of Jollibee Global, emphasized that the partnership represents more than just a training program. For the company, he described the initiative as part of a broader commitment to nation-building.

Tanbuntiong shared that investing in young people by equipping them with skills, values, and confidence helps prepare them to contribute meaningfully to society. He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between schools and industry, noting that meaningful change occurs when academic learning reflects real-world expectations and companies actively support education initiatives.

According to Tanbuntiong, the program has the potential to reshape how young Filipinos view their career paths by opening doors to new opportunities and providing them with a clearer direction for the future.

Supporting the Jollibee Group’s Long-Term Vision

The initiative aligns with the company’s Inspire Joy leadership philosophy, which encourages young people to pursue their ambitions with confidence and purpose. It also supports the group’s sustainability agenda known as Joy for Tomorrow, which focuses on creating inclusive growth in the communities where the company operates.

By investing in education and workforce development, the Jollibee Group hopes to empower students with the knowledge and experience they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving job market.

Programs that bring together schools and industry partners can make a lasting impact on students’ futures. By combining practical training with academic learning, the new QSR curriculum and work immersion program offers Filipino youth a valuable pathway toward meaningful employment.

For students interested in hospitality and food service careers, this initiative could open the door to exciting opportunities while helping build a stronger and more prepared future workforce for the Philippines.



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LG Launches Push Laundry for PWD Livelihood


Inclusive livelihood programs are gaining more attention in the Philippines as organizations seek ways to create meaningful employment opportunities for marginalized communities. A new initiative in Quezon City is taking a practical approach to this mission.

LG Electronics Philippines has officially launched the Push Laundry Livelihood Project, a social enterprise designed to provide sustainable employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. Built through collaboration with several partners, the project combines business operations with social impact, giving PWDs access to income, training, and long-term development.

A Social Enterprise Supporting Persons with Disabilities

The Push Laundry project was created to help address the employment gap experienced by many persons with disabilities. Through a structured livelihood program, the enterprise provides real work opportunities while also supporting programs that help PWDs develop professional skills.

The initiative was established through a collaboration between House with No Steps Foundation, ELS, BigZe Corporation, and LG Electronics Philippines. Together, these organizations worked to create a sustainable business model that combines commercial laundry services with a mission-driven purpose.

Beyond offering jobs, the project aims to demonstrate that inclusive businesses can succeed commercially while delivering positive social outcomes.

Turning a Facility into a Livelihood Hub

One of the buildings of the House with No Steps Foundation in Cubao, Quezon City was renovated and transformed into the operational site for the Push Laundry shop. The facility now serves as a fully functioning commercial laundry business where PWDs can actively participate in daily operations.

The foundation oversees the program while BigZe Corporation provides expertise in managing laundry shop operations and service delivery. This structure allows participants to gain hands-on experience while ensuring that the business runs efficiently.

Through this setup, the project creates a work environment that empowers PWDs to contribute productively within their own community.

Powered by LG Commercial Laundry Technology

The laundry facility is equipped with commercial-grade solutions from LG, helping ensure smooth and reliable operations. According to Nakhyun Seung, Managing Director of LG Electronics Philippines, the company is proud to contribute technology that supports meaningful livelihood opportunities for the PWD community.

He explained that by integrating LG’s commercial laundry solutions into the shop, the company helps create a business model that promotes inclusivity while maintaining efficient daily operations. The equipment is designed to provide flexibility and ease of use, making it suitable for workers with different abilities.

A Model for Sustainable and Inclusive Employment

The Push Laundry project goes beyond providing jobs. Its financial structure ensures that profits generated by the business directly support the programs of the House with No Steps Foundation.

Revenue from the laundry service will help fund employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, skills training and livelihood programs, and the ongoing operational sustainability of the initiative.

Because of its structured approach, the partners also envision Push Laundry as a model that can be replicated in other communities. Interested dealers and partners may potentially adopt the concept and create similar enterprises using the project as a blueprint.

Building Opportunities Through Collaboration

The launch of Push Laundry marks another step forward for organizations committed to inclusive development. By combining social advocacy, operational expertise, and technology, the project demonstrates how partnerships can create meaningful change.

For communities looking to support inclusive entrepreneurship, initiatives like Push Laundry show that business and social impact can go hand in hand. As more organizations adopt similar models, livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities could become more accessible across the country.

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Julie's Bakeshop Marks 45 Years of Feeding Filipino Families with Fresh Bread

Wednesday, March 4, 2026


The Philippines’ largest neighborhood bakeshop, Julie's Bakeshop, is celebrating its 45th anniversary by reaffirming its commitment to providing Filipino families with freshly baked, affordable bread across the country.

The milestone was marked with a grand celebration in Cebu City, honoring the bakery’s suppliers, partners, and franchise owners who have played key roles in the brand’s continued growth and success.

Leading the celebration was Joseph Gandionco, President and CEO of Julie’s Bakeshop. In his speech, he paid tribute to the woman whose vision built the beloved brand.

“Without my Mama Julie, whose bold vision, steadfast determination, and boundless generosity laid the cornerstone of Julie’s, none of these would have been possible,” Gandionco shared. “It is her legacy that continues to guide every step we take.”

From a Humble Cebu Bakeshop to a Nationwide Favorite

The story of Julie's Bakeshop began in 1981 in Wireless, Mandaue City, when founder and matriarch Julie Gandionco opened a small neighborhood bakery.

Her dream was simple yet ambitious: to have a Julie’s Bakeshop in every barangay, serving hot, freshly baked bread to local communities. Customers could watch their bread being baked and enjoy it while it was still warm—served with the welcoming smile that became a hallmark of the brand.

More than four decades later, that dream is close to becoming reality. Today, Julie’s operates more than 600 stores nationwide, making it the largest neighborhood bakeshop in the Philippines.

The brand has become a household name known for its wide variety of baked goods—from Filipino staples like pandesal and ensaymada to sliced breads and coffee.

A Brand Built on Community and Resilience


Under the leadership of Joseph Gandionco, the company has navigated numerous challenges, including natural disasters and the global pandemic, while remaining deeply committed to serving its communities.

In September 2025, when a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck Cebu, Julie’s distributed bundles of bread to more than 500 affected families. The brand also continued its annual feeding drive for devotees during the vibrant Sinulog Festival celebrations.

These initiatives reflect the company’s longstanding mission—not just to sell bread, but to nourish and uplift Filipino communities.

Looking Ahead to the Next Generation


As the company celebrates 45 years of success, it is also preparing for the future. The next generation of leaders is stepping forward, including Gio Gandionco, son of Joseph Gandionco and the current Senior Regional Director for Visayas.

Exciting projects are also lined up for the anniversary year. Actress and brand ambassador Kim Chiu is set to appear at the Julie’s Sama Saya event in Cebu, where she will meet longtime supporters of the brand.

Additionally, Julie’s is launching exclusive merchandise in collaboration with Island Souvenirs, including special edition shirts celebrating the bakery’s legacy.

A Legacy That Continues to Rise

Forty-five years after its humble beginnings, Julie’s Bakeshop remains rooted in the values of its founder—community, generosity, and quality.

As the brand continues expanding across the Philippines, its mission remains unchanged: to bring freshly baked bread, warm service, and a sense of neighborhood connection to Filipino families everywhere.

To learn more about Julie’s Bakeshop and its upcoming anniversary promos and activities, visit its official website and follow its Facebook and Instagram pages.
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Unit 42 Report 2026: AI-Driven Cyberattacks Now 4x Faster, Identity Gaps Fuel 89% of Breaches

Tuesday, March 3, 2026


Cyberattacks are no longer slow, stealthy operations that take weeks to unfold. According to the latest findings from Palo Alto Networks, today’s attackers are moving at machine speed and using AI to do it.

The newly released Unit 42 2026 Global Incident Response Report reveals that artificial intelligence, identity vulnerabilities, and growing enterprise complexity are now at the center of most major breaches. Based on analysis of more than 750 high-impact incidents, the research shows that attackers are accelerating operations at an alarming rate, reshaping the cybersecurity landscape for businesses worldwide.

AI Is Supercharging Attack Speeds

One of the most striking findings from the Unit 42 report is how dramatically attack timelines have shrunk. In the fastest cases, the time from initial access to data exfiltration dropped to just 72 minutes. That represents a fourfold increase in speed compared to the previous year.

Threat actors are increasingly integrating AI and automation throughout the attack lifecycle. From reconnaissance to credential harvesting and lateral movement, automation allows adversaries to execute campaigns with precision and efficiency that traditional defenses struggle to match.

Identity Weaknesses Remain the Biggest Entry Point

Identity is now the primary gateway for attackers. The report found that 65 percent of initial access incidents were driven by identity-based techniques such as social engineering and credential misuse. In total, identity weaknesses were exploited in 89 percent of investigations.

Sam Rubin, SVP of Unit 42 Consulting and Threat Intelligence at Palo Alto Networks, emphasized that enterprise complexity is giving adversaries a clear advantage. He explained that attackers are increasingly targeting credentials and even deploying autonomous AI agents capable of bridging human and machine identities to act independently. To counter this, organizations need to simplify their environments and adopt unified security platforms that remove implicit trust.

Multi-Surface Attacks Are the New Normal

The traditional idea of defending a single perimeter no longer applies. According to the report, 87 percent of attacks spanned at least two attack surfaces. These included endpoints, cloud environments, SaaS platforms, and identity systems. In some cases, Unit 42 observed activity across as many as ten separate fronts at the same time.

The browser has also emerged as a major battleground. Nearly half of all attacks involved browser-based activity, with threat actors weaponizing routine web sessions to harvest credentials and bypass local security controls.

Meanwhile, SaaS supply chain attacks are rapidly increasing. Incidents involving third-party SaaS applications have surged 3.8 times since 2022 and now account for 23 percent of all attacks. Attackers are abusing OAuth tokens and API keys to move laterally across environments.

Complexity and Misconfigurations Drive 90% of Breaches

Perhaps the most sobering takeaway is that 90 percent of data breaches were linked to misconfigurations or preventable security gaps. Poor visibility, excessive trust, and fragmented systems continue to create opportunities for attackers to exploit.

To address the shrinking attack lifecycle, the report recommends moving beyond traditional perimeter-based defenses. Instead, organizations are urged to adopt a unified platform approach that leverages AI and automation for real-time detection, embeds security into development pipelines, centralizes identity management, strengthens browser security, and embraces zero trust principles to eliminate implicit trust.

For enterprises in the Philippines and across the globe, this report is a wake-up call. AI is not just transforming productivity and innovation. It is also transforming cybercrime.

If your organization relies heavily on cloud platforms, SaaS tools, and digital identities, now is the time to reassess your cybersecurity strategy. Simplifying systems, strengthening identity governance, and adopting zero trust are no longer optional. They are essential for survival in an era of AI-powered attacks.

You can download the full 2026 Unit 42 Global Incident Response Report and Executive Resource Kit from Palo Alto Networks’ official website to explore the complete findings and recommendations.
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Eastern Communications Shifts to Geothermal Energy


As businesses ramp up their sustainability goals, energy choices are becoming just as important as digital innovation. For Philippine telco provider Eastern Communications, the move toward cleaner power is no longer a long-term plan. It is happening now.

In a major sustainability milestone, Eastern Communications has increased its renewable energy utilization from 2 percent to 10 percent across its offices and operational facilities, following a strategic partnership with First Gen Corporation.

Powering Makati HQ with Geothermal Energy

Through its partnership with First Gen, Eastern Communications has completed its transition to geothermal energy to supply its Makati headquarters and key Technical Operations Centers. The renewable energy source comes from geothermal facilities in Leyte, highlighting the importance of indigenous resources in strengthening the country’s energy security.

For a telecommunications provider, energy reliability is critical. Network operations centers must run continuously to keep enterprises connected. By tapping geothermal energy, Eastern is reinforcing the backbone of its digital infrastructure with a stable and dependable power source while significantly reducing carbon emissions.

Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-coordinator of Eastern Communications, explained that this collaboration is more than just an environmental initiative. She shared that integrating geothermal energy into major facilities strengthens infrastructure resilience, adding that for the company, sustainability is closely tied to service continuity and long-term operational performance.

Leveraging the Government’s RCOA Program

The transition was made possible through the Retail Competition Open Access program, which allows large electricity consumers to directly contract with their preferred power suppliers. This setup gives companies like Eastern Communications greater control over their energy mix, enabling deliberate and strategic decisions aligned with long-term sustainability goals.

With this arrangement, Eastern is not only improving its environmental performance but also enhancing operational efficiency across its facilities.

Building on Existing Solar Investments

The geothermal shift builds on Eastern’s existing renewable initiatives. The company already operates a 222 kW solar capacity system that supports its Makati headquarters and Technical Operations Centers.

Jaeson Evangelista, also a Co-coordinator of Eastern Communications, described the jump to 10 percent renewable utilization as a concrete and measurable milestone. He noted that combining solar capacity with geothermal energy strengthens operational efficiency while supporting national climate priorities and the broader transition toward a circular economy.

Part of the “Dare To Soar” 2026 Vision

This renewable energy milestone is part of Eastern Communications’ broader modernization roadmap leading up to 2026 under its “Dare To Soar” direction. The strategy focuses on innovation, reliability, and responsible growth.

Beyond energy upgrades, the company is investing in intelligent automation, energy-efficient systems, and phased disaster resilience projects to fortify its facilities and core network.

The partnership with First Gen underscores how sustainability and digital infrastructure are becoming increasingly interconnected. For Eastern Communications, powering critical facilities with renewable energy is not just an environmental statement. It is a strategic move toward building a future-ready, resilient network.

As more companies evaluate their environmental footprint, Eastern’s approach shows that sustainability can directly strengthen operational performance. If you want to learn more about how businesses are integrating clean energy into their growth strategies, this is one transition worth watching.

For more updates, visit Eastern Communications’ official website or contact 5300-7000.
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How Autokid Accelerates SME Growth with PLDT Enterprise Digital Solutions


Scaling a business in the Philippines is no small feat. For many homegrown SMEs, growth brings opportunity but also complexity. Managing multiple branches, serving more customers, and modernizing operations require more than ambition. They require reliable digital infrastructure.

That is exactly how Autokid Mobility Solutions is accelerating its expansion, with strategic support from PLDT Enterprise. What started as a truck-focused venture has evolved into a nationwide mobility provider, proving how digital transformation can power SME success.

From Truck Solutions to Nationwide Mobility Leader

Formerly known as Autokid Truck Solutions, Autokid began with a clear mission to provide dependable transport options to a growing market. Founded by Kevin McHale Yao, Marvin Tiu Lim, and Eric Darryl Lim, the company identified early on the potential within the Philippines’ expanding infrastructure and logistics sectors.

Today, Autokid operates 16 branches nationwide and offers comprehensive mobility solutions that include buses, heavy equipment, and other transport systems. Its growth reflects the journey of many Filipino SMEs: agile, forward thinking, and determined to scale sustainably.

However, expansion also meant operational pressure. More branches required stronger coordination. More customers demanded faster response times. Modernization became inevitable.

Why Connectivity Became Autokid’s Growth Engine

For Autokid, digital infrastructure is not just an upgrade. It is the backbone of operations.

Reliable connectivity now powers the company’s industry-first centralized action center, enabling seamless coordination and faster customer service across branches. It also supports IoT-enabled fleet monitoring for real-time tracking and enhanced safety, a critical component in mobility services.

Beyond operations, connectivity strengthens digital onboarding and coaching sessions for branch employees. It ensures smoother branch-to-branch communication for inventory coordination and after-sales service management.

Eric Darryl Lim, Co-Founder and EVP of Autokid, highlights the human side of digital transformation. “Efficiency has always been about making life better for our customers,” Lim shared. “We want their businesses to flow faster, give them better choices, and help them earn more. Digital solutions—and the right partner—allow us to do that.”

For a fast scaling SME, downtime is not just inconvenient. It directly impacts revenue and reputation. That is why choosing a dependable partner became critical.

PLDT Enterprise: Built for Scaling SMEs

PLDT Enterprise continues to strengthen its SME-focused portfolio to meet the evolving needs of Filipino entrepreneurs. SMEs now represent one of its fastest-growing business segments, supported by solutions that combine simplicity with enterprise-grade reliability.

These include:
  • Broadband solutions designed for scalability
  • Affordable branch connectivity bundles
  • Integrated cybersecurity and connectivity packages
  • Dedicated SME account teams nationwide
  • A consultative approach to digital transformation

Many SMEs struggle with inconsistent service or delayed technical support. PLDT Enterprise addresses this gap with a localized and SME-centered approach, ensuring businesses like Autokid receive responsive and tailored solutions aligned with their pace of growth.

Dennis Magbatoc, AVP and Head of SME Acquisition and Account Management at PLDT Enterprise, emphasized this commitment. He noted that Autokid represents the very SME segment driving strong growth today, and reaffirmed that PLDT Enterprise remains dedicated to helping businesses expand through digital infrastructure that empowers people and strengthens operations nationwide.

Preparing for the Next Phase of Expansion

Autokid is not slowing down. The company is preparing for further expansion, including additional branches, electric vehicle initiatives, and more advanced mobility solutions.

As digital demands increase, its infrastructure must scale accordingly. Lim acknowledges the value of having a partner that understands long-term vision. With PLDT Enterprise supporting their direction, Autokid continues to explore innovation, aiming to become more digitally savvy and future-proof while delivering even stronger customer service.

This partnership illustrates a broader truth about SME growth in the Philippines. Sustainable scaling requires more than capital. It requires dependable digital foundations that eliminate friction and unlock efficiency.

Driving the Future of Filipino SMEs

Autokid’s evolution reflects what becomes possible when a homegrown SME aligns with a digital partner that understands its ambitions and operational realities.

As PLDT Enterprise expands its SME programs, from broadband and cybersecurity bundles to advanced technologies such as IoT, cloud solutions, and mobility integration, more Filipino entrepreneurs gain access to tools that support sustainable growth.

For SMEs looking to expand across regions, improve customer experience, and modernize operations, Autokid’s journey serves as a compelling example. With the right digital backbone, scaling becomes less about surviving complexity and more about seizing opportunity.

If you are an SME preparing for your next growth phase, investing in reliable digital infrastructure may be the most strategic move you make.
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