SOCIAL MEDIA

Lenovo Names Sumir Bhatia as Asia Pacific Chief Commercial Officer to Drive AI Growth

Wednesday, April 22, 2026


Tech giant Lenovo is making a strategic move in the Asia Pacific region with the appointment of Sumir Bhatia as its first-ever Chief Commercial Officer. The new role signals the company’s push to strengthen its commercial operations and accelerate growth in one of the world’s most dynamic tech markets.

Announced on April 22, 2026 in Singapore, the leadership update highlights Lenovo’s focus on aligning its AI-driven solutions with the evolving needs of businesses across the region.

A New Role Focused on Growth and Alignment

In his new position, Sumir Bhatia will oversee a newly formed commercial organization that brings together enterprise sales, solution sales, channel partnerships, and alliances.

The goal is to create stronger alignment across teams and markets, allowing Lenovo to deliver more integrated and efficient solutions to its commercial customers. Bhatia will continue reporting to Amar Babu, reinforcing continuity in leadership.

A Decade of Experience Within Lenovo

Bhatia is no stranger to the company. He has spent the past ten years leading Lenovo’s Infrastructure Solutions Group in Asia Pacific, where he played a key role in driving sustained growth and transformation in the region’s infrastructure business.

His deep understanding of Lenovo’s ecosystem and the regional market puts him in a strong position to lead this next phase of expansion.

The Asia Pacific region remains one of the most exciting markets for digital transformation. Businesses across countries are adopting new technologies at different speeds, creating both challenges and opportunities.

This diversity allows Lenovo to introduce flexible, end-to-end solutions tailored to varying levels of digital maturity. With Bhatia at the helm, the company aims to better connect these solutions with customer needs across industries.

Strengthening Lenovo’s AI and Hybrid Solutions

One of the key priorities of the new commercial organization is to align Lenovo’s full-stack AI capabilities across its business units.

By doing so, the company aims to deliver more cohesive Hybrid AI solutions that combine hardware, software, and services. This approach is expected to help businesses improve efficiency, scale operations, and adapt to changing technological demands.

Leadership Changes in the Region

The appointment comes alongside other leadership updates within Lenovo Asia Pacific.

Longtime executive Ivan Cheung is set to retire in June 2026 after years of contributing to the company’s growth, particularly in its devices business.

Meanwhile, Benjamin Yeh has already stepped into the role of Vice President and General Manager of Lenovo’s PCs and Smart Devices business in the region. With over two decades of experience, he is expected to guide the division into its next stage of development.

Lenovo’s decision to appoint a Chief Commercial Officer for Asia Pacific reflects how important the region has become in the global tech landscape.

For businesses, this could mean better access to integrated solutions, stronger partnerships, and more tailored support as they navigate digital transformation. With AI continuing to reshape industries, moves like this show how companies are positioning themselves to stay ahead.
Read More

Innovative Organic Spa Products That Mitigate Flash Floods Through a Restorative Economy Approach


A Sustainable Development Initiative in Pulu Village

Across the globe, the wellness industry has evolved far beyond lifestyle trends into a powerful engine of national and regional economies, driven by surging demand for natural, plant-based personal care. In the Philippines, traditional wellness is now emerging as a fast-growing economic driver rooted in biodiversity and cultural healing practices. As close ASEAN neighbors, the Philippines and Indonesia are increasingly connected through this shared foundation, advancing a regional push for “clean-label” products that turn rising global demand for aromatherapy and natural medicine into sustained growth for community-led enterprises across Southeast Asia

The Philippines’ essential oils sector is valued at approximately USD 265 to 286 million in 2025 and is projected to surpass USD 570 million by 2034. In Asia-Pacific, this growth reflects a broader shift toward sustainability, the region’s essential oils market expected to reach around USD 3.94 billion by 2031, growing at an 8.26% CAGR. These shared trajectories reinforce the Asia-Pacific’s position as the world’s fastest-growing wellness hub, accelerating efforts to link economic development with ecological restoration.

While the Philippines leads with community-driven cooperatives in provinces like Quezon and Palawan–distilling oils used for aromatherapy, cosmetics, and eco‑friendly household goods that respond to rising demand for sustainable alternatives–Indonesia provides a parallel narrative of resilience. Behind the serene interiors of global spas lies a production chain that connects these two nations through a commitment to pure, traceable raw materials. This narrative often begins in overlooked areas, such as Pulu Village in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, where essential oil cultivation serves as a vital shield against environmental threats like recurring floods.

From Disaster Mitigation to the Utilization of Plant-Based Materials

Pulu Village, a flood-prone area affected by earthquakes and extreme rainfall, has seen repeated disasters turn fertile farmland into sand. Between 2020 and 2021, these events impacted 1,365 people and slashed agricultural yields by nearly 70%. In response, Dilah Sahim (29), the Director of the Pulu Village Owned Enterprise and owner of Lana Tumbavani, focused first on ecological recovery by introducing citronella not as a commodity, but as a resilient plant to stabilize degraded land and reduce erosion alongside bamboo. "In the beginning, we did not think about business at all. What mattered was that the land was safe and not further damaged; the economy came later," said Dilah.

As conditions improved and the recovery process progressed, the village began processing citronella into essential oil. They named Lana Tumbavani, meaning 'citronella oil' in the local Kaili language. While the process is labor-intensive, yielding just 200 milliliters of oil from 200 kilograms of leaves after an eight-month wait, the enterprise remains committed to prioritizing quality over volume.

Lana Tumbavani gained international interest, and their products, including soaps, oils, and candles, are distributed as amenities in various tourism destinations. like the Aston Hotel in Sigi.They are also available for purchase in online marketplaces like Shopee in Indonesia.

Navigating the Global Market with Sustainable Values Through GIAT Incubation

As global demand for sustainable wellness products grows Tumbavani’s challenge shifted to entering the market without compromising its mission, supported by mentoring Gampiri Interaksi through GIAT 2.0 incubation program. The program also helped BUMDes Pulu refine cost structures, production capacity, pricing, and market readiness, emphasizing a restorative economy over scaling volume. "We see this as a restorative economic practice, not a conventional business. Nature is restored, the community is mobilized, and the products have clear value. If one of those is removed, the model collapses," said Nedya Sinintha Maulaning, a representative of Gampiri Interaksi.

Key challenges remain, including high-energy costs, limited skilled labor for distillation and inconsistent production cycles tied to demand rather than long-term contracts. Still, early impacts are evident; three to four households are now involved, earning modest but meaningful additional income, while citronella planting has helped stabilize less than one hectare of previously unproductive land and is believed to have reduced local flood risks. 

Restorative Economy Approach in Guarding the Village Sustainability Direction

Tumbavani shows that a restorative economy follows a clear cause-and-effect chain: land recovery leads to ecological stability, enabling consistent plant growth and, in turn, generating income. Previously unproductive land now creates value, with one hectare of citronella contributing to both village enterprise revenue and household earnings. "If the environment does not recover, there will be no product, and there will be no income. What we are doing is simply proving that caring for nature can directly impact the residents' economy," Dillah stated.

This impact is reflected in the participants’ stability, with participating households seeing their income rise by around 50% between 2024 and early 2025. The model deliberately reverses conventional development priorities, prioritizing environmental recovery over economic gain. Future growth is capped at 15% to protect ecological balance. Supported by Lingkar Temu Kabupaten Lestari (LTKL), Tumbavani exemplifies how restoring nature can serve as the foundation for durable, community-driven economic growth.

"Usually, nature is squeezed first, then the economy is shared. Here, nature is restored first, and then the economy grows. That is what makes it more durable," said Nedya.
Read More

Capital One Philippines Ranks 2nd Among Best Workplaces in the Philippines

Monday, April 20, 2026


A Big Win for Workplace Culture

Great workplaces do not happen by accident. They are built through intention, consistency, and genuine care for employees. This year, Capital One Philippines proves exactly that by securing the second spot in the prestigious Best Workplaces in the Philippines list.

The recognition was awarded during ceremonies held at Conrad Manila, highlighting companies that excel in creating high-trust, people-first work environments.

What Makes This Recognition Meaningful

Organized by Great Place To Work, the awards honor organizations that prioritize employee well-being, inclusivity, and engagement.

For Capital One Philippines, this is not a one-time achievement. The company has consistently earned recognition, including:
  • Previous ranking as 4th Best Workplace in the Philippines
  • 6th Best Workplace in IT-BPM (large company category)
  • Inclusion in Asia’s Best Workplaces list

This steady climb reflects a long-term commitment to building a workplace where employees genuinely thrive.

A Culture Built on Trust and Empowerment

According to Raoul Teh, the recognition is rooted in a culture that puts people first.

He shared that when employees feel seen, heard, and empowered, they are able to create meaningful impact not just within the company but also for customers and the wider community. This philosophy continues to guide how the organization nurtures its workforce.

Benefits That Go Beyond the Basics

At the core of this recognition is Capital One Philippines’ Total Rewards Program, which takes a holistic approach to employee well-being. Instead of focusing only on salaries, the company looks at multiple aspects of an employee’s life.

Key benefits include:
  • Flexible work arrangements that support work-life balance
  • Competitive compensation packages
  • Comprehensive healthcare coverage for employees and their dependents, including de facto partners
  • Continuous learning and development opportunities
  • Programs that promote collaboration and community involvement

This well-rounded approach helps employees feel supported not just professionally but personally as well.

In today’s evolving work environment, employees are looking for more than just a job. They want purpose, flexibility, and a sense of belonging.

Companies like Capital One Philippines are setting the standard by creating environments where people can grow, feel valued, and contribute meaningfully.

Landing the second spot among the country’s best workplaces is no small feat. It reflects a deep commitment to building a culture where employees are empowered to succeed.

If you are exploring companies that truly invest in their people, Capital One Philippines stands out as a strong example of what a modern, people-first workplace should look like.
Read More

Dataiku Names Andrew Boyd as APJ Head to Accelerate Enterprise AI Growth


A Strategic Move to Scale AI Across Asia Pacific

As businesses across Asia Pacific continue to invest heavily in artificial intelligence, the real challenge is no longer adoption but execution. How do companies turn AI experiments into real, measurable results?

This is exactly the focus of Dataiku as it appoints Andrew Boyd as Senior Vice President and General Manager for Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ). The move signals a stronger push to help enterprises translate AI investments into tangible business outcomes.

Driving the Next Phase of AI Growth

In his new role, Boyd will oversee Dataiku’s regional strategy and operations across key markets including ASEAN, South Korea, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.

His mandate is clear: expand enterprise adoption of AI, strengthen partnerships, and ensure that organizations can scale AI in a way that is both governed and impactful. This means moving beyond isolated use cases and embedding AI into core business operations.

According to Phil Coady, the region is entering a new phase. He explained that the focus is shifting from ambition to accountability, where companies are expected to demonstrate real value from their AI initiatives.

Boyd brings over two decades of experience in enterprise technology across the APJ region. His background includes leading go-to-market transformations, expanding regional footprints, and building strong relationships with enterprise clients and government stakeholders.

This deep understanding of diverse and highly regulated markets positions him well to guide organizations through the complexities of scaling AI responsibly.

Boyd himself emphasized that success in Asia Pacific requires more than innovation. It demands strong governance, local expertise, and a clear connection between technology and business outcomes. As AI adoption accelerates, companies are under increasing pressure to deliver results, not just ideas.

From Experimentation to Real Impact

One of the biggest challenges companies face today is moving from pilot projects to enterprise-wide AI implementation. Many organizations have already tested AI tools, but scaling them across departments while maintaining control and compliance remains a hurdle.

Dataiku aims to bridge this gap by providing platforms that allow businesses to operationalize AI at scale. This includes ensuring transparency, flexibility, and trust in how AI systems are deployed and managed.

Strong Global Momentum for Dataiku

The company is already working with over 750 organizations worldwide, including some of the largest enterprises. This growing client base reflects the increasing demand for solutions that can turn AI into a core business capability rather than a standalone experiment.

With Boyd leading the APJ region, Dataiku is poised to deepen its presence and help more organizations unlock the full potential of AI.

For businesses navigating the fast-evolving world of artificial intelligence, leadership and strategy are just as important as technology. The appointment of Andrew Boyd marks a significant step for Dataiku as it continues to support enterprises in scaling AI effectively.

If your organization is exploring how to turn AI into real business value, this shift highlights a growing focus on practical, results-driven innovation across the region.
Read More

Fastly Named a Leader in Edge Development Platforms 2026 by Independent Research Firm


Company Received Above-average Customer Feedback and Highest Possible Scores in Innovation, Developer Experience, and Performance & Latency Optimisation Criteria

Fastly, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLY), a leader in global edge cloud platforms, today announced it has been named a Leader in “The Forrester Wave™: Edge Development Platforms, Q1 2026 report.” This report evaluates top platforms in the market that enable developers to build and deploy applications on distributed infrastructure closer to users and data sources.

Fastly believes its recognition as a Leader reinforces its strong position among the top edge development platforms. The company was also the only evaluated vendor to receive above-average customer feedback. According to the Forrester Wave™ report: “customers highlight Fastly’s strong performance, reliability, and developer experience,” and “praise the vendor’s highly engaged technical support and proactive partnership…”

The Forrester Wave™ notes: “Fastly’s strategy emphasizes a global compute fabric rooted in Wasm security, interoperability, and deterministic performance.” The evaluation further notes that, “Fastly aims to strengthen its already impressive innovative position in AI‑assisted development and edge‑first event streaming while expanding containers and components to increase workload flexibility.” Additionally, Forrester’s report states, “Fastly is a top choice for performance‑critical, event‑driven, security‑sensitive, and globally consistent edge workloads.”

“Organisations across all industries now differentiate in their markets by delivering resilient, highly performant, always-on software. Investing in edge platforms helps them achieve these ambitions at global scale,” said Kelly Shortridge, Chief Product Officer at Fastly. “To us, this recognition positions Fastly as the essential foundation for enterprises to translate software delivery investments into continuous competitive advantage. Our global compute fabric weaves the security, performance, and consistency enterprises need to expedite innovation and invent new app paradigms that transform their business.”

Fastly’s continued innovation in edge development reinforces its ability to help organizations build and deploy high-performance, Secure by Design applications closer to users and data. A complimentary copy of The Forrester Wave™: Edge Development Platforms, Q1 2026 report is available here. To learn more about Fastly’s edge development platform, visit www.fastly.com.

Forrester does not endorse any company, product, brand, or service included in its research publications and does not advise any person to select the products or services of any company or brand based on the ratings included in such publications. Information is based on the best available resources. Opinions reflect judgment at the time and are subject to change. For more information, read about Forrester’s objectivity here .
Read More

Tropical Transformation: How Bananas Are Fueling Innovation and Empowerment in Southeast Asia


Women in Indonesia’s Penyandingan Village protect customary forests and advance empowerment through banana-based livelihoods.


More than just a global celebration, World Banana Day highlights how Southeast Asia was a pioneer in turning bananas into a tool for innovation and empowerment. In the Philippines, the banana serves as a symbol of resilience and resourcefulness, famously exemplified by Maria Orosa’s wartime invention of banana ketchup.

As global banana production is projected to reach 166 million tons by 2034, growing threats from climate change, crop diseases, and land conversion also rise. Philippine initiatives like the Barangay Calube Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative (BACFA-MPC), which transforms harvests into value-added products such as flour and chips, are one initiative to utilize the banana.

This cultural and developmental significance extends far beyond Philippine shores, echoing deeply in Indonesia’s Penyandingan Village, in Sumatra. Here, the banana is more than a staple food; it is a catalyst for social transformation. By cultivating banana-based livelihoods, local women are advancing empowerment while protecting customary forests—reinforcing the fruit's vital role in both ecological stewardship and social progress. Indonesia’s community-led models are turning the humble fruit into a powerful engine for food security, women’s empowerment, and environmental stewardship across Southeast Asia.

The Ghimbe Pramunan Customary Forest and the Semende Heritage

The Ghimbe Pramunan Customary Forest is a protected place, with conservation efforts largely driven by women. Among them is Mrs. Anita Tasriah (46) of Penyandingan Village, who actively organizes local women to safeguard the forest. Drawing on its importance as a daily source of food and livelihood, Anita has become a pivotal figure linking traditional indigenous knowledge with collective female action for environmental sustainability.

The forest spans 43.7 hectares and is vital to the community, rich in rivers, waterfalls, and indigenous trees such as benzoin (menyan), medang (Phoebe grandis), and coffee, as well as resources like rattan, bamboo, and wild bananas. Its preservation is upheld by the Semende customary system of tunggu tubang, which entrusts the eldest child with the responsibility of protecting the inherited family wealth and preventing over-exploitation.

“This forest has been guarded by our ancestors since long ago. There are boundaries, there are rules. It must not be damaged,” says Anita Tasriah, who is also the Chairperson of the Anak Belai Women’s Social Forestry Business Group (KUPS) and Secretary of the Ghimbe Pramunan Customary Forest Management Institution (LPHA).

Vigilance Against Environmental Threats

Awareness of forest conservation in the area was built through experience, as illegal logging has often encroached on customary lands around Penyandingan Village, leading to issues such as landslides and fallen trees during the rainy season. In response, the LPHA Ghimbe Pramunan was formed as a pillar for sustainable forest management, comprising 39 members organized into two business groups: KUPS Perempuan Anak Belai (Women’s Group) and KUPS Puyang Sure Aek Ghibe (General Resource Group). A strong emphasis is placed on women’s leadership in forest monitoring, including documenting physical changes to trails and assessing the availability of bamboo, rattan, and banana plants.

“When heavy rain falls, and the river suddenly turns murky, it is a sign that there is trouble upstream. Usually, the women are the first to notice,” Anita explains. Findings from these monitoring activities are discussed in monthly meetings to guide preventative actions and enforce customary sanctions, which have been further strengthened following formal recognition by the Indonesian Ministry of Environment and Forestry, including strict sanctions for illegal tree falling.

From Simple Kitchens to Value-Added Innovation: KUPS Innovation and PINUS Stewardship

In 2023, forest protection expanded into an economic endeavor through the formation of the KUPS Perempuan Anak Belai. The group consists primarily of 24 housewives and 10 elderly women skilled in food processing and bamboo weaving.

Under LPHA guidance, bananas were selected as a key agroforestry commodity and integrated into conservation plots as a sustainable income source that does not harm the forest.

As Anita recalls, "Initially, we made banana chips only for our own needs or to serve village guests. The process was very simple, using traditional knives we call kuduk.” Early production was basic and informal, lacking standardized packaging and proper processing techniques. The birth of the Love Bana brand marked a significant shift, improving product quality and production efficiency with support from PINUS South Sumatra, a civil society organization focused on community-based natural resource management, while preserving traditional tools such as the kuduk and anak belati as part of its cultural identity.

As Yunita Sari of PINUS South Sumatra explains, “We do not just help residents make a finished product; we accompany the process so that women gain confidence, hold positions in decision-making, and ensure their businesses are sustainable.”

Restorative Economy Impact and National Recognition

The economic benefits are already being felt. KUPS Anak Belai has recorded a 4% increase in local community income, providing supplementary income for 24 women involved in production, packaging, and marketing. At the same time, the group has planted approximately 100 banana trees across a 1-hectare agroforestry plot. supporting both environmental restoration and a sustainable raw material source. This showcases how KUPS Anak Belai implements a restorative economy approach through environmental stewardship, generating real impact on the welfare of the communities.

Beyond local impacts, Anita has emerged as a recognized voice in environmental and community development forums, including the 2025 International Regional Science Association Conference and national workshops following COP 30 in Belém, Brazil. She emphasizes, “I want to see more village women become confident, earn an income, and remain active guardians of the forest. If the forest is destroyed, we lose everything.”
Read More

Eastern Communications Ensures Stable Internet Services Amid Middle East Tensions

Sunday, April 19, 2026


With global tensions in the Middle East raising concerns about possible disruptions to international connectivity, many businesses and households are wondering how this could affect their internet services. The good news is that Eastern Communications has reassured its customers that operations remain stable and uninterrupted.

Here’s how the company is keeping connectivity reliable despite ongoing global uncertainties.

Proactive Measures to Keep Services Running Smoothly

As part of its preparedness strategy, Eastern Communications has activated its Business Continuity Management Plan. This framework is designed to ensure that services continue without disruption, even during unexpected global events.

Key technical and field teams remain fully operational, supported by flexible work arrangements that prioritize both employee safety and service efficiency.

In a statement, Co-Coordinator Aileen Regio emphasized the company’s commitment, explaining that connectivity remains a top priority. She noted that their readiness and resilient network design allow them to deliver consistent service despite external challenges.

Resilient Network Built for Global Uncertainty

Eastern Communications has invested heavily in building a network that can adapt to disruptions. Its infrastructure includes geographically diverse submarine cable systems and independent core nodes.

This setup allows data traffic to be automatically rerouted if a disruption occurs in any region. The result is a stable and seamless experience for users, whether they are businesses, institutions, or households.

Power Backup Systems Ensure Continuous Operations

Beyond connectivity, the company has also strengthened its power management systems. In alignment with national energy contingency measures, Eastern Communications has optimized energy usage across its facilities.

Each site is equipped with uninterruptible power supply systems and backup generators. Fuel reserves are also secured to ensure that operations remain unaffected even during power interruptions.

Continuous Monitoring and Global Coordination

According to Co-Coordinator Jaeson Evangelista, the company maintains constant monitoring of its network while working closely with international partners.

He highlighted that this proactive approach allows them to detect potential risks early and respond quickly. Combined with their technical safeguards, these efforts help maintain reliable service for customers across the Philippines.

In an increasingly connected world, stable internet service is essential. From remote work to digital transactions, disruptions can have significant consequences.

Eastern Communications’ layered approach, from network redundancy to power backup and real-time monitoring, ensures that users can stay connected even during global uncertainties.

If you rely on stable internet for work, business, or everyday life, it is reassuring to know that providers like Eastern Communications are taking proactive steps to keep services running smoothly. Their commitment to resilience and innovation highlights the importance of choosing a telecom partner that prioritizes reliability.

For more details, you can visit their official website or reach out to their customer support to learn more about their services.

Read More
Subscribe to: Comments (Atom)
...