SOCIAL MEDIA

STT GDC Philippines Launches DC Power-Up 2.0 to Train the Next Generation of Data Center Professionals

Thursday, April 30, 2026


As the Philippines continues to strengthen its digital infrastructure, the demand for skilled professionals in the data center sector is rapidly growing. In response, ST Telemedia Global Data Centres Philippines has introduced DC Power-Up 2.0, a training and certification initiative designed to equip Filipinos with industry-ready skills.

This latest program reflects a strong push toward building local expertise while creating more opportunities in one of the country’s fastest-growing tech sectors.

Expanding Opportunities Through DC Power-Up 2.0

Following the success of its first run, DC Power-Up 2.0 welcomed 27 participants, doubling the initial intake while maintaining a focused and high-quality learning environment.

The program offers a three-day intensive training that gives participants complimentary access to the Data Centre Foundation Certificate, a globally recognized credential that covers essential knowledge in data center operations and infrastructure.

Notably, all participants across both program runs successfully passed the certification exam, highlighting the effectiveness of the training approach.

From Training to Real Career Opportunities

One of the standout outcomes of DC Power-Up 2.0 is its direct impact on employability. Top graduates from the program were hired, demonstrating how the initiative bridges the gap between education and actual industry opportunities.

According to Carlo Malana, the program is part of a broader commitment to developing Filipino professionals who can contribute to the country’s growing digital ecosystem.

He emphasized that investing in local talent is essential to building a resilient and sustainable data center industry in the Philippines.

Globally Recognized Training with Industry Partners

DC Power-Up 2.0 is delivered in partnership with EPI Group, a globally accredited provider of data center training and certification.

Edward van Leent shared that the collaboration ensures participants receive globally aligned knowledge that supports their entry into the industry.

This partnership helps maintain international standards while nurturing local talent, making Filipino professionals more competitive in the global tech landscape.

Building a More Inclusive Talent Pipeline

Beyond technical skills, DC Power-Up 2.0 also focuses on inclusivity. The latest batch showed improved gender representation, reflecting ongoing efforts to make the data center industry more accessible to a wider range of participants.

This approach supports a more diverse and future-ready workforce, aligned with global trends in the tech sector.

As digital demand continues to rise, data centers play a critical role in powering everything from cloud services to online platforms. Programs like DC Power-Up 2.0 ensure that the country is not just building infrastructure, but also developing the people who will run it.

ST Telemedia Global Data Centres Philippines is setting a strong example by investing in both technology and talent.

For aspiring tech professionals, this initiative opens doors to a promising career path. For the industry, it signals a more sustainable future powered by skilled Filipino talent.
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ASEAN Foundation Launches ‘Scam Ready ASEAN’ to Combat Rising Online Scams in Southeast Asia


As online scams continue to surge across Southeast Asia, a new regional initiative is stepping in to help protect millions of people. The ASEAN Foundation has officially launched Scam Ready ASEAN, a large-scale program designed to strengthen digital safety, boost awareness, and empower communities against online fraud.

Unveiled during the Google 2026 Online Safety Dialogue in Kuala Lumpur, the initiative signals a stronger, more coordinated response to one of today’s fastest-growing digital threats.

A Growing Digital Threat Across Southeast Asia

Online scams are no longer isolated incidents. They have become a widespread regional issue affecting individuals, families, and businesses alike.

In 2024 alone, Southeast Asia recorded an estimated USD 23.6 billion in losses due to online fraud. Common scams include phishing, impersonation, fake job offers, and fraudulent online selling schemes.

In the Philippines, authorities such as the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group continue to intensify operations, with multiple arrests already recorded in early 2026. Despite regulatory efforts like SIM registration, scammers are becoming more sophisticated, often using coordinated messaging and digital platforms to target victims.

What Is Scam Ready ASEAN?

Scam Ready ASEAN is one of the region’s most ambitious digital safety programs to date. Backed by USD 5 million in funding from Google.org, the initiative aims to build scam resilience for up to 3 million people across ASEAN.

Its core mission is simple but critical: equip communities with the knowledge, confidence, and critical thinking skills needed to identify and avoid scams.

The program will:
  • Partner with 20 local organizations across 11 ASEAN member states
  • Train 2,000 master trainers using a “train-the-trainer” model
  • Reach at least 550,000 direct beneficiaries through structured modules
  • Expand awareness through localized campaigns and policy dialogues

Interactive tools, including educational games, will also be used to make learning more engaging and accessible.

A Collaborative, Region-Wide Approach

The initiative reflects a broader shift toward collaboration across sectors. Governments, tech companies, financial institutions, and civil society groups are all working together to strengthen defenses against online fraud.


According to Piti Srisangnam, scams today are a shared regional challenge that impact not only individuals but also trust in digital systems. He emphasized that Scam Ready ASEAN focuses on prevention rather than reaction, aiming to prepare communities before scams happen.

Meanwhile, Sapna Chadha highlighted that a trusted digital economy depends on strong security measures and informed users. She noted that empowering citizens is just as important as improving technology.

Strengthening Regional Anti-Scam Efforts

Scam Ready ASEAN builds on existing regional efforts such as the ASEAN Anti-Scam Working Group, established during the 4th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting in 2024.

By aligning with these frameworks, the program transforms policy commitments into actionable, on-the-ground initiatives. It also introduces a “whole-of-society” approach that integrates education, enforcement, and collaboration.

The launch event gathered key leaders and stakeholders, including government officials and representatives from the tech and financial sectors, to align strategies and strengthen cooperation moving forward.

As digital payments, social media, and artificial intelligence continue to evolve, scams are becoming more complex and harder to detect. This makes awareness and education more important than ever.

The ASEAN Foundation, through Scam Ready ASEAN, is setting a strong foundation for a safer digital future. By empowering individuals with knowledge and tools, the initiative helps communities stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.

For everyday users, this is a reminder to stay vigilant, informed, and proactive when navigating the digital world.
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Ant International Unveils Open-Source Protocol to Power the Future of AI Commerce


The way we pay could soon change dramatically. Ant International has introduced a new open-sourced technology designed to support the next wave of digital transactions, where AI agents can make purchases on behalf of users.

Called the Agentic Mobile Protocol (AMP), this innovation aims to make AI-driven commerce more secure, seamless, and accessible across mobile platforms and devices.

What Is the Agentic Mobile Protocol?

At its core, AMP is a framework that allows AI agents to connect directly with mobile payment systems such as digital wallets, banking apps, and super apps.

Unlike traditional payment methods that rely heavily on card-based systems, AMP is built specifically for mobile-first and AI-powered environments. This means transactions can happen more smoothly across smartphones, wearables, and even emerging tech like AR glasses and in-car systems.

Why AI Commerce Is Gaining Momentum

AI commerce, also known as agentic commerce, is quickly evolving from experimental use to real-world application.

With billions of people already using digital wallets globally, the demand for smarter, automated transactions is rising. AMP is designed to support this shift by enabling AI agents to handle tasks like ordering food, booking rides, or planning trips with minimal friction.

Key Features That Stand Out

AMP introduces several capabilities that could redefine how payments work:

Faster and Simpler Integration

The protocol reduces the steps needed to connect AI agents to digital wallets by up to 50%, making it easier for businesses to adopt.

Built-In Security and Trust

With features like a money-back guarantee and a “Know Your Agent” system, AMP ensures that transactions remain safe while verifying the identity and capabilities of AI agents.

Cross-Device Compatibility

From smartphones to smartwatches and even cars, AMP allows payments to work seamlessly across multiple devices.

Micro and Nano Transactions

One of its most advanced features is the ability to process extremely small transactions between AI agents, enabling high-frequency payments that traditional systems cannot handle.

A Growing Global Ecosystem

AMP is not being developed in isolation. Alipay+, Ant International’s global wallet gateway, already connects over 40 digital wallet partners, covering billions of user accounts and millions of merchants worldwide.

The company is also collaborating with major players like Mastercard, Visa, and Google to further develop AI-driven payment systems.

What This Means for Businesses and Consumers

According to Jiang-Ming Yang, the goal is to create a universal and secure standard that allows AI agents to transact across platforms without friction.

For businesses, this could mean easier expansion into digital markets and more efficient operations. For everyday users, it could lead to a future where tasks like shopping, booking, and payments happen automatically in the background.

The Bigger Picture: A Shift Toward Smarter Spending

As technology continues to evolve, the idea of AI handling everyday transactions is becoming more realistic. AMP represents a step toward that future, where payments are not just digital, but intelligent.

If widely adopted, this could reshape how we interact with money entirely, making commerce faster, more personalized, and deeply integrated into daily life.
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Shopee Partners with PNP Eastern Police District to Support Police Families Through Online Business Training


Building a stable income is a priority for many Filipino families, including those behind the country’s frontliners. In a meaningful step toward financial empowerment, Shopee Philippines has partnered with the Philippine National Police Eastern Police District to help police families start and grow their own online businesses.

This collaboration aims to turn e-commerce into a practical livelihood opportunity for families across Eastern Metro Manila.

Bringing Digital Livelihood Opportunities to Police Families

The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding that introduces Shopee’s Tatak Pinoy program to the PNP-EPD community.

Under the initiative, aptly named “Love at First Click: Negosyong Online para sa Pamilyang Pulis,” families of police personnel will gain access to training that teaches them how to build and manage online stores.

The goal is simple but impactful: provide sustainable income opportunities that can improve financial stability at home.

What the Tatak Pinoy Program Offers

Shopee’s Tatak Pinoy program serves as the backbone of this initiative. Originally designed to support micro, small, and medium enterprises, it has already trained more than 700 sellers across multiple cities since 2025.

Participants will learn essential e-commerce skills, including:
  • Setting up an online store
  • Digital marketing strategies
  • Order fulfillment processes
  • Customer engagement techniques

These are the same tools that have helped many small entrepreneurs transition into successful online sellers.

A Shared Commitment to Community Support

According to Jack Ng, the company believes that e-commerce can create equal opportunities for more Filipinos, not just traditional business owners. By extending this program to police families, Shopee hopes to provide practical skills that lead to real income.

Meanwhile, Aden Lagradante emphasized that supporting police personnel goes beyond their duties in public safety. He shared that helping their families access livelihood opportunities strengthens the entire community.

Police officers play a critical role in maintaining safety, but their families often face financial challenges like any other household. Programs like this help bridge that gap by offering accessible ways to earn income through digital platforms.

By equipping families with e-commerce skills, the initiative also contributes to a more inclusive digital economy, where more Filipinos can participate and benefit.

A Step Toward Inclusive Growth

This partnership reflects a growing trend of using technology to create real-world impact. As Shopee Philippines continues to expand its Tatak Pinoy Roadshow nationwide, more communities can expect similar opportunities in the future.

For families looking to start a small business, this initiative shows that with the right tools and support, going digital can open new doors.
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How Women Leaders at BPI AIA Are Shaping the Future of Health and Financial Protection


Leadership today is no longer just about strategy. It is about empathy, understanding, and creating solutions that truly reflect people’s needs. At BPI AIA, women are playing a powerful role in redefining how health and financial protection are delivered to Filipino families.

As the definition of wellness expands beyond physical health, leadership that understands both emotional and financial realities is becoming more essential than ever.

A More Human Approach to Health and Protection

For many Filipinos, health now means more than staying physically well. It also includes financial stability, long-term planning, and peace of mind.

At BPI AIA, this shift is shaping how products and services are developed. The company focuses on helping families prepare for life’s uncertainties while building resilience for the future. And behind these solutions are leaders who prioritize connection and understanding.

According to Karen Custodia, the future of the industry will be shaped by leaders who understand people on a deeper level, not just market trends. She emphasized that empathy and relevance are key to building meaningful relationships with customers.

Women Driving Change Across the Organization

Women make up nearly two-thirds of BPI AIA’s workforce, spanning both sales and non-sales roles. This strong representation extends to leadership positions, reflecting a long-standing commitment to inclusivity.

This is not just about numbers. In an industry built on trust, having diverse perspectives leads to better decision-making and more thoughtful solutions. Women leaders bring insights that reflect the real needs of families, especially during critical life moments.

Their influence can be seen in how services are designed to be both financially sound and genuinely supportive.

Creating a Workplace Where Women Can Thrive

Behind this representation is a deliberate effort to invest in people. BPI AIA promotes mentorship, leadership development, and career mobility, giving employees clear pathways to grow.

Programs are designed to help professionals move from advisory roles into leadership positions over time. This creates not just jobs, but long-term careers with purpose.

As shared by Juan Miguel Corona, empowering women in the workplace requires active effort. He noted that leaders, including male allies, play a crucial role in opening opportunities and challenging bias to support talent at every stage.

Meanwhile, Paolo Reyes highlighted that inclusion must be intentional. Building a culture of trust and accountability ensures that women can step into leadership roles with confidence.

Building a Strong Pipeline of Future Leaders

The future of any industry depends on who is encouraged to join and stay. At BPI AIA, initiatives like SHEConnects, a female employee network, provide a space for mentorship, collaboration, and support.

These efforts are complemented by leadership development programs that equip women with the skills needed to succeed and lead.

For Orange Galsim, having a supportive environment makes a real difference. She shared that strong leadership and inclusive teams help drive both performance and purpose, especially in roles that directly impact families’ lives.

As industries evolve, organizations that invest in inclusive leadership are better positioned to adapt and grow. At BPI AIA, empowering women is not just a value. It is a long-term strategy that strengthens the entire organization.

For professionals looking for meaningful careers, this approach offers both purpose and opportunity. And for customers, it translates into more thoughtful, human-centered solutions.

A Future Built on Inclusive Leadership

The impact of women leaders at BPI AIA goes beyond the workplace. It shapes how families are supported, how services are delivered, and how trust is built over time.

As more organizations embrace inclusive leadership, the result is a stronger, more resilient future for everyone. If you are looking for a career or simply want to understand where the industry is heading, this is a shift worth paying attention to.
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TP Philippines Champions Women Empowerment and Inclusive Leadership in the AI Era

Monday, April 27, 2026


Empowering women in the workplace is no longer optional. It is essential for building future-ready organizations. This Women’s Month, TP in the Philippines reinforced its commitment to inclusivity through a series of meaningful initiatives that spotlight leadership, intersectionality, and growth for women in the workplace.

From open conversations to leadership summits, the organization continues to create spaces where women feel seen, heard, and empowered to thrive.

Building a Stronger Community Through TP Women

At the heart of these initiatives is TP Women, a global employee network by TP in the Philippines that supports women across all levels of the organization.

The program provides a platform for women to share experiences, develop professionally, and access support systems that encourage both personal and career growth. It reflects the company’s broader goal of cultivating inclusive workplaces where diverse voices are valued.

Creating Safe Spaces for Honest Conversations

One of the standout activities during Women’s Month was “Harmony Queentuhan,” a culture and belonging initiative designed to foster open dialogue among women employees.

The sessions explored intersectionality in the workplace, encouraging participants to reflect on how personal realities shape their professional experiences. More importantly, it created a safe space for women to share insights and propose ways to strengthen company policies and leadership opportunities.

To further support this, TP in the Philippines introduced its “Building a Safer, More Inclusive Workplace for Women at TP” toolkit. This resource outlines key policies and support systems, including its Anti-Sexual Harassment Policy, Battered Women Leave, and provisions aligned with the Magna Carta for Women.

EmpowerHER Leadership Summit Takes Center Stage

The highlight of the celebration was the EmpowerHER Leadership Summit, which gathered leaders, advocates, and allies across the organization.

The event focused on the realities women face in the workplace today, especially as industries evolve with the rise of artificial intelligence. It served as a platform for thought leadership, collaboration, and actionable insights on how to build more inclusive organizations.

Women in Leadership and the Role of AI


Toni Tompar, Executive Vice President for Operations at TP in the Philippines, shared her perspective during the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines International Women’s Day event.

She emphasized the importance of combining emotional intelligence with artificial intelligence, urging leaders to rethink traditional corporate structures and embrace more human-centered approaches.

Tompar also highlighted the concept of the “invisible backpack,” referring to the unseen challenges many women carry, such as time constraints, societal expectations, and physical demands. These barriers, she explained, can significantly impact career growth and opportunities.

The discussion also featured Nina Kristine Abad, who shared insights on supporting women leaders and fostering inclusive workplace practices.

Driving Inclusive Innovation in AI

TP in the Philippines also participated in the forum “Inclusive Intelligence: Women Advancing AI for Philippine Development,” organized by the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Philippines.

The session explored how women leaders play a critical role in ensuring that AI development remains ethical, inclusive, and people-centered. It reinforced the idea that diverse perspectives are essential in shaping responsible technology.

Meanwhile, Rachel Cacabelos emphasized that inclusion is an ongoing effort. She shared that when employees feel valued and supported, they are more empowered to grow, lead, and contribute meaningfully to the organization.

As industries continue to evolve, especially with the rapid rise of AI, companies must prioritize inclusivity to stay relevant and competitive.

TP in the Philippines is setting a strong example by embedding women empowerment into its culture, policies, and leadership development initiatives.

For professionals and organizations alike, this serves as a reminder that empowering women is not just about representation. It is about creating real opportunities, removing barriers, and building workplaces where everyone can succeed.
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Vena Energy Strengthens Indigenous Partnerships with Community Support Turnover in Quezon City


Sustainability today goes beyond clean energy. It is also about empowering communities and ensuring that progress is shared. In a recent milestone, Vena Energy reinforced this commitment by formalizing its support for Indigenous Cultural Communities through a meaningful check turnover ceremony.

Held on April 21, 2026 in Quezon City, the event highlights how renewable energy projects can create real, lasting impact for host communities across the Philippines.

Supporting Indigenous Communities Through Meaningful Action

The initiative was led by Quezon Wind Energy Corp., a subsidiary of Vena Energy. The turnover formalized the remittance of community funds to the Dumagat Remontado Indigenous Cultural Communities in Tanay.

Funds were coursed through Tanay Dumagat Remontado Ancestral Domain Development Inc., the officially recognized Indigenous Peoples Organization established through the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent process.

This partnership ensures that development efforts are not imposed but instead shaped by the communities themselves.

Investing in Community-Led Development

Through this collaboration, Vena Energy supports programs that directly reflect the priorities of the Indigenous communities.

These include:
  • Infrastructure improvements
  • Better access to education
  • Sustainable livelihood opportunities
  • Enhanced healthcare services

By aligning projects with local needs, the initiative promotes long-term, community-driven progress rather than short-term aid.

Leaders Highlight the Importance of Inclusive Growth

During the ceremony, key representatives from both sides emphasized the value of partnership and shared development.

Samrinder Nehria shared that the transition to clean energy should create lasting value for host communities while respecting their heritage and rights. He emphasized that this milestone reflects a shared vision of a sustainable future where Indigenous voices are recognized and uplifted.

On the community side, Eleonor Atencio expressed appreciation for the continued support, noting that the partnership has strengthened their confidence and opened new opportunities for growth.

Meanwhile, Carlos Buasen Jr. highlighted the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship between companies and Indigenous communities, especially when projects impact ancestral domains.

A Model for Responsible Renewable Energy Development

This collaboration demonstrates how renewable energy projects can go beyond powering cities. By strictly following the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent framework, Vena Energy ensures transparency, respect, and meaningful participation from Indigenous communities.

It also serves as a strong example of how private sector initiatives can work alongside local stakeholders to create inclusive and sustainable growth.

As the Philippines continues to expand its renewable energy sector, partnerships like this show what responsible development looks like. It is not just about generating power, but also about empowering people and protecting cultural heritage.

Vena Energy is setting a benchmark for how companies can integrate social responsibility into their core operations.

For readers and advocates of sustainability, this is a reminder that true progress is measured not only by innovation, but by the positive impact it brings to communities.
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