In business, success is often measured by revenue, growth, market reach, and recognition. But there is another measure that becomes more important over time: what remains after the milestones have been achieved.

That question is at the heart of The Legacy Awards PH, which returns in 2026 with a continued focus on businesses, organizations, and individual achievers whose work creates meaningful and lasting impact.

Guided by its enduring motto, “Because Your Business Is Your Legacy,” The Legacy Awards PH recognizes organizations and individuals that go beyond conventional measures of success by integrating Business Social Responsibility (BSR), sustainability, and transformative community impact into what they do.

And as nominations for the 2026 Legacy Awards remain open as of this writing, businesses and achievers with a story worth telling are being invited to put themselves forward.

More Than an Award: The Idea Behind a Legacy

The Legacy Awards PH has evolved into a standalone awards institution after originating in 2020 as a segment under several established Philippine awards programs, including World Class Global Awards, Best Choice Awards, and The National Customers’ Choice Annual Awards. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the initiative developed into an independent awards entity focused on recognizing organizations and leaders making positive contributions amid changing social and economic conditions.

Its central philosophy is straightforward: a business is more than the products it sells or the profits it generates.

The organizations that leave a lasting impression are often those that create opportunities, support communities, develop people, innovate responsibly, and use their resources to address real-world challenges.

That is where the concept of Business Social Responsibility becomes particularly relevant.

For The Legacy Awards PH, responsibility is not presented as an activity separate from business. Instead, it is part of a broader view of what successful organizations can contribute to society.

What Makes a Business Worth Remembering?

Every year, thousands of businesses compete for attention.

But only some become part of the stories people remember.

A company may be remembered because it transformed an industry. Another may be recognized for creating employment and economic opportunities. A family business may be celebrated for surviving generations. A social enterprise may stand out because its growth directly benefits communities.

Likewise, an individual leader may build a legacy through innovation, professional excellence, public service, advocacy, or simply through the people whose lives and careers were positively influenced by that person’s work.

These are the kinds of stories that the Legacy Awards 2026 seeks to bring into the spotlight.

The 2026 program invites exemplary brands, social enterprises and individual achievers to submit their profiles for evaluation during the upcoming awards cycle.

Nominations for the Legacy Awards 2026 are still open

If your organization has demonstrated meaningful business achievement, sustainability, social responsibility or community impact — or if you know an individual whose accomplishments deserve wider recognition — now is the time to nominate.

Nominate for the Legacy Awards 2026:
Legacy Awards 2026 Nomination Form

A Legacy Built on Impact

The idea of legacy becomes particularly powerful when viewed through the lens of sustainability.

A successful business can generate profits today. A truly impactful business can create systems, opportunities, and values that continue benefiting people long after a particular project or leadership term has ended.

This is why The Legacy Awards PH places emphasis on sustainable businesses and visionary achievers, while highlighting Business Social Responsibility and transformative impact investments.

The distinction matters.

Sustainability is no longer simply a corporate buzzword. For many businesses, it has become part of how they manage people, resources, communities, and long-term growth.

The organizations that understand this are increasingly looking beyond immediate returns and asking a bigger question:

What kind of legacy are we building?

Looking Back at the Legacy Awards 2025

The 2026 edition builds on a growing recognition platform, with the previous year’s awards providing a glimpse into the breadth of achievements celebrated by The Legacy Awards.

The Legacy Awards 2025, held at the Grand Ballroom of Okada Manila on August 15, 2025, carried the theme “Celebrating Excellence, Resilience, and Social Responsibility.” The event recognized institutions and individuals whose contributions were seen as creating positive change in their communities.

The 2025 Legacy Awards demonstrated the breadth of what the organization considers a meaningful legacy. The previous edition recognized achievers and organizations across government, business, mobility, media, the arts, healthcare and professional leadership. Among the recipients were the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, recognized as Outstanding Government Agency for Special Economic Zone Management; Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, who received the Distinguished Public Service and Legislative Excellence Award; and VinFast Philippines, which was recognized for Excellence in Strategic Mobility Innovation.

Recognition also extended into media and the creative industries, with Yes! FM receiving the Outstanding FM Radio Award and Rico Panyero being named Outstanding FM Radio Host and Event Presenter. Diane Pascual was recognized for Outstanding Contribution to Filipino-Chinese Excellence in Media and Arts, while other 2025 honorees included leaders in healthcare, corporate leadership, and the beauty industry.

The diversity of the 2025 honorees reinforces the broader premise of the Legacy Awards: legacy is not confined to one profession or industry. It can be built through business innovation, public service, community impact, professional excellence, creativity, and the ability to create opportunities for others.

These examples illustrate the broader character of the Legacy Awards: recognition is not limited to one industry or one definition of success.

Instead, the platform brings together business leaders, organizations, professionals, public servants, entrepreneurs and other achievers whose work represents excellence and meaningful contribution.

From 2025 to 2026: The Legacy Continues

If 2025 highlighted excellence, resilience, and social responsibility, the 2026 edition provides another opportunity to examine what Filipino businesses and leaders are doing today to create something that will endure tomorrow.

That makes the Legacy Awards 2026 particularly relevant at a time when businesses are being challenged to demonstrate not only growth, but purpose.

Customers increasingly want to know what companies stand for.

Employees want to know whether their work contributes to something meaningful.

Communities want organizations that create opportunities rather than simply extract value.

And leaders increasingly recognize that their greatest achievement may not be the business they build, but the people and communities they leave better because they built it.

Who Should Be Nominated?

The 2026 nomination call is open to brands, social enterprises and individual achievers whose work demonstrates the values and accomplishments associated with building a lasting legacy.

Potential nominees may include:

• Established businesses with a strong record of growth and community contribution
• Emerging companies with innovative and sustainable business models
• Social enterprises creating measurable community impact
• Entrepreneurs who have built organizations that create opportunities for others
• Corporate leaders demonstrating exceptional leadership and innovation
• Professionals whose work has made a significant contribution to their field
• Organizations pursuing meaningful Business Social Responsibility initiatives
• Individuals whose achievements have inspired or benefited their communities

Ultimately, the question is not simply “How successful are you?”

It is:

“What difference has your success made?”

The 2026 Legacy Awards Gala

The culmination of the 2026 awards cycle will be the Legacy Red Carpet Event, scheduled for October 26, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at the Grand Ballroom of Okada Manila in Parañaque City.

According to the organizers, the event will bring together prominent speakers, celebrity guests and high-caliber performances for an evening celebrating the year’s honorees.

Beyond the red carpet and recognition itself, the gala represents the larger purpose behind the awards: bringing together people and organizations whose achievements demonstrate that excellence can be connected to responsibility and lasting impact.

Because Your Business Is Your Legacy

A company’s name may change.

A CEO may eventually move on.

A product may disappear from the market.

But the opportunities created, people developed, communities supported and positive changes made can continue long after the original achievement.

That is the thinking behind the Legacy Awards PH.

“Because Your Business Is Your Legacy” is more than a motto. It is an invitation for organizations and leaders to think beyond the next quarter, the next promotion or the next award — and consider the contribution they want their work to leave behind.

The Legacy Awards 2026 will continue that conversation by putting the spotlight on businesses, social enterprises and individual achievers whose stories demonstrate that success and social responsibility can move together.

Nominations are still open for the Legacy Awards 2026

If you believe your business, organization or personal achievements have created a meaningful and lasting impact, this could be your opportunity to be recognized.

Submit your nomination for the Legacy Awards 2026:
Nominate for the Legacy Awards 2026

The Legacy Awards PH
Because Your Business Is Your Legacy.

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MANILA, PHILIPPINES — As Philippine retail continues to evolve, sustainability is becoming an increasingly important part of how businesses define responsible growth. For MR.DIY Philippines, that journey has now received industry recognition through the 2026 OFR Sustainability Award, affirming the company’s efforts to integrate environmental responsibility, community engagement, and sustainable practices into its expanding retail operations.

For MR.DIY Philippines, the recognition represents more than a single sustainability project. It reflects a continuing journey to make responsible business practices part of everyday retail.

“We are continuously learning, improving, and finding ways to do better,” the company shared in reflecting on the award. The recognition, it said, reinforces the belief that responsible business practices can coexist with growth, accessibility, and commercial success.

From Retail Expansion to Greater Responsibility

Since entering the Philippine market in 2018, MR.DIY has steadily expanded its nationwide presence, reaching its 500th store in Panglao, Bohol, in 2024, followed by its 800th store and, in 2026, its 1,000th store in the Philippines.

The scale of that expansion has also prompted the company to look beyond store growth.

With more than 1,000 stores nationwide, MR.DIY recognizes that its decisions as a retailer, employer and member of communities can create an impact far beyond its stores.

This perspective is at the heart of its approach to responsible retail—considering not only transactions and business results, but also how resources are managed, how waste can be reduced, how communities can be supported, and how customers can be encouraged to make more sustainable choices.

Making Sustainability Accessible to Everyday Consumers

One of MR.DIY Philippines’ sustainability initiatives is its Good Bag Campaign, which encourages customers to choose reusable bags instead of automatically relying on single-use alternatives.

The initiative was built around a straightforward idea: sustainability becomes more meaningful when sustainable choices are practical, affordable, and easy to adopt.

From 2020 to 2025, customers availed of approximately 7.6 million reusable bags through MR.DIY’s related reusable bag initiatives. For the company, the experience demonstrated how small everyday decisions can create meaningful impact when multiplied across a large customer base.

Rather than expecting dramatic changes in consumer behavior overnight, MR.DIY focused on making a better choice more familiar and accessible.

As the company puts it, sustainability can begin with “one small habit repeated over time.”

Sustainability Behind the Scenes

While customer-facing initiatives are highly visible, MR.DIY’s sustainability efforts also extend into its operations.

The company has strengthened its work in plastic stewardship and renewable energy, including partnerships with PCX Markets and ACEN Corporation to support plastic recovery and renewable energy initiatives.

As of 2026, all MR.DIY warehouse operations are powered by electricity from 100% renewable energy, while the company has also deployed 183 kW of on-grid solar capacity across six stores.

These efforts reflect a broader approach in which sustainability is increasingly considered within operational decision-making, from resource management and energy efficiency to waste reduction and responsible sourcing.

MR.DIY is also strengthening its ESG governance and accountability framework by assigning responsibilities across departments and establishing relevant ESG key performance indicators. The goal is to make sustainability a shared responsibility rather than an initiative belonging solely to an ESG team.

Growth That Gives Back to Communities

Sustainability for MR.DIY also extends beyond environmental initiatives.

Through its Acts of Kindness program, the company supports communities through initiatives involving education, family welfare, youth development, and environmental protection.

Its 1,000-store milestone provided another opportunity to translate business growth into community impact. In partnership with Yayasan MR.DIY and the Department of Education, MR.DIY brought STEM learning experiences to nearly 1,000 students and launched its first classroom-building initiative under its Adopt-A-School program.

For the company, these efforts demonstrate that a corporate milestone can become an opportunity to create value outside the business itself.

A Recognition of a Continuing Journey

The 2026 OFR Sustainability Award comes at an important point in MR.DIY Philippines’ growth story.

Rather than viewing sustainability as a finished achievement, the company sees the recognition as encouragement to continue improving. Its journey—from reusable bag initiatives and plastic recovery to renewable energy, employee engagement and community programs—illustrates how sustainability can gradually become embedded in the way a retailer operates.

The recognition also reinforces the value of industry collaboration. Through the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) and programs such as the OFR Awards, retailers have opportunities to exchange ideas, learn from best practices, and contribute to conversations about the future of Philippine retail.

For MR.DIY, sustainability is not a competition. The environmental and social challenges facing businesses are shared challenges, and progress becomes more meaningful when companies learn from one another.

Building a More Sustainable Philippine Retail Industry

MR.DIY Philippines believes that sustainability should not be limited to businesses with large resources or major investments. Retailers can begin by examining everyday operations, identifying areas where waste and resource use can be reduced, and finding practical ways to encourage more responsible choices.

The company’s experience points to a simple principle: business growth and responsibility do not have to compete with each other.

As MR.DIY Philippines moves forward after reaching 1,000 stores and receiving the 2026 OFR Sustainability Award, its sustainability journey continues to evolve—to make responsible retail part of everyday business.

Ultimately, the future of Philippine retail may not simply be about how much businesses grow, but about how much positive impact they create as they grow.

via The Philippines Herald

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MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) celebrated another year of retail excellence at the 2026 OFR Awards, recognizing companies that continue to raise the bar in customer experience, innovation, sustainability, community impact and people development.

The awards highlighted how Philippine retail is evolving beyond the traditional store—creating more connected, meaningful and purpose-driven experiences for Filipino consumers and communities.

Among this year’s recognized retailers is PENSHOPPE, winner of Excellence in Retailing for Omnichannel (Large). By seamlessly connecting its physical stores with digital platforms, PENSHOPPE demonstrates how retailers can create a more convenient, consistent and connected experience as consumers increasingly discover, shop and engage with brands across multiple channels.

Anthem Group, meanwhile, received Excellence in Retailing – In-Store Experience & Design (Large) for its approach to creating retail environments where design becomes an integral part of the customer experience. Through the combination of creativity, functionality and brand storytelling, the company continues to reimagine retail spaces as engaging and memorable destinations.

Retail marketing was also recognized through OXGN, winner of Excellence in Retailing – Retail Marketing Campaign (Large) for its Street Rhythm campaign. The campaign demonstrated how authentic storytelling, creativity and community engagement can connect a brand with the culture and communities it celebrates—extending the conversation beyond the product itself.

Sustainability took center stage with MR. DIY Philippines, winner of Excellence in Retailing – Sustainability (Large). Initiatives including its Good Bag Campaign and Acts of Kindness (A-OK) program reflect how retail can translate sustainability and purpose into practical environmental and community action.

The Regional Retailer of the Year Award went to Rose Pharmacy, Inc., recognizing its contribution to communities through accessible healthcare, compassionate service, and customer-focused retail. Its recognition underscores the important role regional retailers play in bringing essential products and services closer to Filipino communities.

A standout double win went to Golden ABC, which received both Retailer of the Year and the Retail Employer Award. The dual recognition reflects excellence in retail leadership and operations alongside the company’s focus on innovation, people development and creating an environment where employees can thrive.

Together, the winners demonstrate the breadth of excellence shaping Philippine retail today—from omnichannel innovation and immersive store design to culturally relevant marketing, sustainability, community service and employee development.

As the PRA celebrates its 50th anniversary, the 2026 OFR Awards reinforce a central message for the industry: the future of Philippine retail belongs to businesses that innovate while remaining deeply connected to their customers, communities and people.

via The Philippines Herald

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Nanatiling nakatuon ang administrasyong Marcos sa pagsusulong ng reporma sa sistema ng pensiyon ng mga military at uniformed personnel (MUP), habang nagpapatuloy ang masusing pagsusuri ng isang inter-agency group upang makabuo ng rekomendasyong balanse at kayang tustusan ng pamahalaan sa pangmatagalan, ayon sa Malacañang nitong Huwebes.

Sinabi ni Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary at Palace Press Officer Claire Castro na patuloy na pinag-aaralan ng pamahalaan ang usapin upang matiyak na magiging makatarungan at sustenablye ang magiging sistema.

Batay sa pahayag ng Department of Budget and Management (DBM), sinabi ni Castro: “Sa ngayon ay ongoing pa ang pag-aaral. Sa ilalim ng Executive Order Number 107, Series of 2025, ang naatasang mag-aaral at magsasagawa ng komprehensibong pagsusuri o reporma sa military and uniformed personnel pension system ay ang binuong inter-agency na binubuo ng mga kinatawan ng DBM, DOF, BTR (Bureau of Treasury), and GSIS.”

Ipinaliwanag niya na pangunahing tungkulin ng inter-agency group na magsagawa ng malalim na pagsusuri sa kasalukuyang sistema at maglatag ng mga posibleng hakbang para sa reporma.

“Tungkulin ng nasabing inter-agency na magsagawa ng malalim na pag-aaral upang matiyak na magiging balanse, makatarungan at fiscally sustainable ang sistema ng pension, magrekomenda ang mga kaukulang hakbang o panukalang batas para sa reporma at inaatasan din ang lahat ng ahensiya ng MUP na magbigay nang buong suportang teknikal at administratibo sa nasabing technical group para sa pag-aaral na ito,” dagdag ni Castro.

Sa pamamagitan ng Executive Order No. 107, Series of 2025, na inilabas ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. noong Disyembre 2025, na-update ang base pay schedule at itinaas ang subsistence allowance ng mga military at uniformed personnel.

Samantala, naglaan ang administrasyon ng panukalang ₱142.95 bilyon para sa pensiyon ng MUP sa ilalim ng 2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP). Mas mataas ito ng 6.8 porsiyento kumpara sa ₱133.91 bilyon na inilaan sa ilalim ng 2026 General Appropriations Act.

Sa ngayon, nagpapatuloy ang pag-aaral ng inter-agency group, na layong makapaglatag ng mga repormang makatutugon sa pangangailangan ng mga uniformed personnel habang isinasaalang-alang din ang pangmatagalang kakayahan ng pamahalaan na pondohan ang sistema.

via PCO | The Philippines Herald

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A well-maintained cold chain keeps products fresh and safe. Any lapse can cause spoilage, food safety risks, customer dissatisfaction, or regulatory issues. At RDF Feed, Livestock & Foods, Inc., food safety and quality begin with strict cold chain management at every stage, well before products reach your table.

As a vertically integrated agri-food business, RDF oversees every stage of its products’ journey, from breeding and farming to final sale. By operating its own farms, processing plants, and distribution networks, RDF maintains full control. Fresh Options Meatshop, owned and operated by RDF, demonstrates this integrated approach. The company enforces strict cold chain protocols in all facilities and during transport.

Its cold chain is built on four pillars: Refrigerated Storage and Transport, Real-Time Monitoring and Traceability, Preventive Maintenance and Equipment Reliability, and Staff Training and Cold Chain Culture. Each addresses specific risks from farm to table. Certifications such as FSSC 22000, GMP, and HACCP, along with compliance with Philippine regulations, reinforce this system. Regular third-party audits provide further assurance to customers and partners.

The first pillar, Refrigerated Storage and Transport, safeguards product safety at every step. At the processing plant, meat is rapidly chilled or frozen under strict temperature controls. Products are transferred and inspected to meet international cold chain standards. Before loading, delivery vehicles are pre-cooled and checked to ensure both the truck and products are at the correct temperature. Refrigeration units maintain cold temperatures and minimize heat exposure during loading, transport, and storage. Temperature checks and efficient procedures are followed at each stage. Every step is managed as a critical control point to protect the cold chain from processing to final delivery.

The second pillar, Real-Time Monitoring and Traceability, reduces the risk of undetected temperature changes during storage and delivery. Reliable thermometers and GPS trackers monitor temperature and location for every delivery. Electronic records allow staff to quickly identify and resolve issues. If a temperature breach occurs, a rapid-response protocol is followed: products are inspected and segregated, corrective actions are taken, and a full investigation is conducted to prevent recurrence. These systems flag issues, track incidents, and strengthen food safety. Regular external inspections and audits further enhance accountability and help prevent spoilage and regulatory issues.

The third pillar, Preventive Maintenance and Equipment Reliability, ensures consistent operations. An in-house engineering team, specializing in refrigeration and air-conditioning, conducts routine inspections and servicing for all refrigeration units, cold storage rooms, and delivery vehicles. This proactive approach minimizes breakdowns and maintains optimal equipment performance, even during peak demand or long deliveries. Spare parts and backup units are available, and staff are trained to identify early warning signs. By prioritizing maintenance, the company prevents disruptions and maintains product quality.

The fourth pillar, Staff Training and Cold Chain Culture, emphasizes rigorous safety and comprehensive training to prevent errors and ensure consistent product handling. Safety is a shared responsibility at every level, reinforced through regular training in temperature checks, emergency protocols, and proper handling. Staff are prepared to respond quickly and identify issues early. This culture of accountability extends from the farm to the Fresh Options counter, ensuring food safety remains a constant standard.

For customers, including families, restaurants, and hotels, RDF’s cold chain management provides more than just safe products.

Fresh Options customers can trust that every cut of meat is kept at the correct temperature throughout its journey. This commitment reduces the risk of foodborne illness and preserves freshness and nutritional value.

Institutional buyers, including hotels, restaurants, caterers, and food manufacturers across Luzon, gain a trusted and auditable partner. RDF’s cold chain records meet the highest food safety standards. Detailed temperature logs, transit data, and compliance reports show that procurement requirements are consistently met or exceeded.

For households and businesses, real-time monitoring and traceability reduce spoilage and extend shelf life.

As RDF Feed, Livestock & Foods, Inc. expands across Luzon, its commitment to a seamless cold chain sets a new benchmark for food safety. Investments in skilled personnel, reliable equipment, and proven systems reinforce one promise: no shortcuts, no compromises. In today’s market, trust is earned by companies that consistently deliver safe, high-quality products. With every product, RDF upholds this pledge. The cold chain is more than a process; it is a promise to protect families, support partners, and raise the standard for safe, high-quality meats in the Philippines.

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The company received the Silver Award for Excellence in Workplace Culture through its Employee Value Proposition (EVP) Program, while People Effectiveness Senior Specialist Arnold Policarpio took home the Gold Award for Young HR Talent of the Year.

The win marks EastWest Ageas’ third consecutive year of recognition at the HR Excellence Awards, reinforcing its continued pursuit of building a workplace where people can thrive and grow.

Creating value and opportunity for employees

At the heart of EastWest Ageas’ workplace strategy is its Employee Value Proposition (EVP) program, which was designed to create a more authentic and meaningful employee experience. Guided by employee research and insights, the People and Culture team developed an EVP guided in understanding, inclusion, and authenticity.

The results speak for themselves. Employee engagement activities achieved a 94% satisfaction rating, while EastWest Ageas also recorded a 17% decrease in overall regretted attrition and a 104% increase in hires— reflecting stronger employee attraction, engagement, and retention.

These improvements ultimately earned EastWest Ageas the Silver Award for Excellence in Workplace Culture through its EVP Program.

Shaping the next generation of HR leaders

The company’s recognition was further strengthened by the Gold Award for Young Talent of the Year, presented to People Effectiveness Senior Specialist Arnold Policarpio for his contributions to strengthening the employee experience.

Arnold has consistently demonstrated leadership in delivering meaningful employee programs, earning a 96% satisfaction rating for onboarding sessions and 89% rating for employee engagement initiatives based on post-event surveys.

His recognition reflects EastWest Ageas’ commitment to nurturing talents, empowering employees to lead, and providing opportunities to grow, innovate, and make a lasting impact.

“More than just a workplace, we strive hard to make sure that EastWest Ageas is a place where our people can grow professionally and personally. These recognitions, both for our programs and our people, are a testament to our commitment to putting our people at the heart of our organization. They also inspire us to continue making the right decisions for our employees, our Stewards,” said Lois Dalida, Chief People and Culture Officer, EastWest Ageas. 

Via: thephilippinesherald

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The proposal with recommendations was submitted by Globe under the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Digital Infrastructure sector which calls for a coordinated national framework to guide the planning, construction, and governance of underground conduit systems. This would address fragmented implementation across local government units while establishing national technical standards, designating a lead agency to oversee nationwide deployment, and assigning accountability to ensure maintenance of the digital infrastructure. 

The company sees this as a timely move as the Dig Once Policy as stipulated in Section 17 of the Konektadong Pinoy Act (Republic Act No. 12234).

The nation’s digital infrastructure has become increasingly important with the expansion of the country’s digital economy. Unfortunately,  climate-related disasters,  accidental,  and intentional fiber cuts continue to disrupt connectivity. Globe revealed that more than 14,000 fiber cut incidents were recorded in 2025, underscoring the need to build better infrastructure that can help eliminate disruptions.

Globe General Counsel and President of the Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO) Froi Castelo said the proposed policy would provide the consistency needed to make underground infrastructure deployment more efficient nationwide.

“A common policy for shared use of underground conduit infrastructure will give the industry a common framework for planning, deployment and long-term management. Clear governance and consistent national standards will accelerate network rollouts, improve resilience to service disruptions and optimize investments that ultimately benefit consumers and the country’s digital economy,” he said.

For Globe, strengthening network resiliency has long been part of its infrastructure strategy. The company previously reported completing more than 1,500 kilometers of underground fiber facilities, contributing to a significant reduction in fiber cut incidents in the selected areas.

“Digital infrastructure is now as essential as roads infrastructure and power systems. A unified underground conduit framework can help the country build networks that are more resilient, and better equipped to support the Philippines’ growing digital economy,” Globe Senior Vice President for Service Planning and Engineering Joel Agustin said.

The proposed policy also encourages closer coordination among national government agencies and local government units in developing a National Underground Conduits Master Plan, establishing common technical standards, and creating a governance framework for the long-term operation and shared use of underground infrastructure.

As Globe continues investing in resilient network infrastructure, the company remains committed to working with government and industry partners to help build a digital ecosystem that supports inclusive economic growth and delivers better connectivity experiences for Filipinos.

For more information, visit www.globe.com.ph.

Via: thephilippinesherald

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Leading the launch was Inv. Derrick A. Tan, President & CEO of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies, Inc., together with the competition’s distinguished Board of Judges: Mr. Francisco A. Valdecantos, Managing Director of Kape Kesada Art Gallery and Artillera Gallerie; Ms. Arleen Lipana, Visual Artist, Curator, Marketing Strategist, Advertising Consultant, Writer, and Events Producer; Mr. Romeo E. Gutierrez, Painter, Printmaker, and Art Educator; and Mr. Eleazar Abraham “Abe” L. Orobia, Artist, Educator, Curator, Writer, and Cultural Advocate. Their participation underscores the competition’s commitment to bringing together established voices from the Philippine art and creative communities.

Now in its latest edition, the 2026 Sinclair National Art Competition seeks to provide Filipino artists with a national platform to experiment with new materials, techniques, and forms of artistic expression. At the heart of the competition are Sinclair Makaw Microcement Lime Plaster & Effect Paints and Obra Viva, which will serve as the artistic media for participants. Through these materials, artists are encouraged to explore texture, dimension, color, movement, and surface design in creating original works that demonstrate both artistic vision and craftsmanship.

The competition is open to entries from August 1 to December 31, 2026, giving artists nationwide an opportunity to participate and showcase their creativity. It features two categories: Representational Obra (Figurative) and Wall Obra (Non-Representational/Abstract).

The Representational Obra category carries this year’s theme, “Creating Horizons for the New Generation.” Artists are invited to interpret the theme through figurative works that express ideas of hope, culture, family, community, and nation-building. The category encourages artists to translate their perspectives on the future into compelling visual narratives using the competition’s designated artistic media.

Meanwhile, the Wall Obra category focuses on non-representational and abstract expressions designed for wall applications. Participants are challenged to develop creative surface concepts that demonstrate how artistic expression can become an integral part of residential, commercial, and public spaces. Through this category, the competition opens opportunities for artists to explore the relationship between art, architecture, interior design, and the surfaces that shape everyday environments.

The launch also highlighted Sinclair’s continuing commitment to championing Filipino creativity and supporting the development of the local art community. By placing material innovation at the center of the competition, Sinclair aims to encourage artists to discover new possibilities in the way they create, interpret, and present their work.

“Creativity has always been an important part of innovation. Through this competition, we want to allow Filipino artists to explore materials in new ways and express their ideas through a medium that extends beyond traditional artistic surfaces,” said Inv. Derrick A. Tan, President & CEO of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies, Inc.

The works will be evaluated by the distinguished panel of judges, with criteria that recognize artistic excellence, creativity, craftsmanship, technical execution, and effective use of the designated media. Winners will be announced during National Arts Month in February 2027, with winning artists receiving recognition for their creative achievements.

The 2026 Sinclair National Art Competition represents Sinclair’s continuing effort to create meaningful opportunities for Filipino artists while expanding the possibilities of decorative surface design. More than a showcase of artistic talent, the initiative aims to inspire creators to see materials and surfaces in new ways and to contribute fresh perspectives to the evolving relationship between art and the built environment.

The official competition mechanics, registration guidelines, and entry requirements are now available. Artists, designers, art enthusiasts, and creative communities are encouraged to visit www.sinclair.com.ph/decorative/sinclairnationalartcompetition for the complete competition details and requirements, and follow Sinclair The New Generation Paint for official announcements, competition updates, event highlights, and other activities throughout the 2026 Sinclair National Art Competition.

via The Philippines Herald

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The analysis used Sentinel-1 Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite imagery captured on 06 August 2026 at 05:54 AM PhST (for Region 1) and 09 August 2026 at 05:58 PM PhST (for Region 2). The flooded areas were detected with the aid of Artificial Intelligence (AI) using a composite of three Sentinel-1 SAR images. 

SAR satellite imagery is useful in flood mapping because SAR signals can penetrate through clouds that often cover large areas during storms, and regardless of daylight conditions, unlike optical imagery. However, SAR may underestimate flooding in urban and densely vegetated areas because complex surfaces may affect the backscatter data being measured and reduce flood detection accuracy. Please note that these maps remain subject to ground validation. 

PhilSA supports the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) in monitoring the situation and prioritizing areas for response through the analysis of wide-area coverage satellite data. By making space data accessible to stakeholders, PhilSA enables informed decision-making and strengthens disaster response. 

PhilSA will continue monitoring satellite data as the situation requires. Please follow local and national agencies for the latest advisories. 

Access the maps and shapefiles of flood extents here: 

Region 1, and parts of Abra and Zambales: https://tinyurl.com/Flood-20260806-S1D  

Region 2: https://tinyurl.com/Flood-20260809-S1C-Y2  

Follow us on social media for the latest updates: https://linktr.ee/philspaceagency 

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MANILA, Philippines — The 32nd National Retail Conference and Expo (NRCE) 2026 closed its two-day run at the SMX Convention Center Manila with a clear message for the Philippine retail industry: the future will belong to businesses that can combine technology and innovation with people, purpose, collaboration, and the ability to adapt.

Held on August 6 and 7 under the theme “New. Next. Forward.”, NRCE 2026 brought together retailers, suppliers, technology providers, entrepreneurs, business leaders, and industry stakeholders for two days of conversations, learning, networking, business opportunities, and retail innovation.

The event also carried added significance as the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) marked its 50th anniversary, making this year’s NRCE both a celebration of the industry’s journey and a look toward what comes next. The PRA’s milestone provided a fitting backdrop for discussions about how Philippine retail can remain competitive as technology, artificial intelligence, consumer behavior, and business models continue to change.

Beyond Technology: Retail Remains a People Business

One of the strongest themes to emerge from NRCE 2026 was that technology may be transforming retail, but people remain at its center.

PRA President Alice Liu set the tone by emphasizing that retail has always been—and will continue to be—a people business. Her message underscored the importance of approaching change with curiosity, courage, and confidence while recognizing that the industry’s future cannot be built by technology alone.

That people-first perspective carried into discussions on leadership, succession, workplace culture, and the next generation of family businesses.

A fireside conversation involving next-generation leaders Bryan and Brandon Liu of Golden ABC and Jathniel and Justine Thai of Primer Group of Companies explored the realities of succession, trust, and preparing the next generation to take businesses forward.

The message was particularly relevant for Philippine retailers navigating the transition between established leadership and younger generations expected to lead in a very different business environment.

AI and Digital Transformation Take Center Stage

At the same time, NRCE 2026 made clear that retailers can no longer treat technology as simply an optional upgrade.

Artificial intelligence, automation, data, omnichannel commerce, customer experience, and digital transformation featured prominently throughout the conference.

Joseph Phi, Group CEO of Li & Fung, framed the industry’s challenge around the need to keep moving as the world changes, describing a progression toward a new paradigm where people are amplified by AI, a next wave of expanding capabilities, and a way forward built around adapting to change.

For businesses considering digital transformation, the advice was notably practical.

Dustin Lacap of McDonald’s Philippines encouraged businesses to view technology as a strategic investment rather than merely another expense.

Meanwhile, RJ Paculan and Paolo Broma of TBWA\SMP emphasized that transformation should begin with the business problem—not with the technology itself. Their approach of testing, learning, and scaling what works offers a practical roadmap for retailers that may not have the resources to undertake massive digital transformations all at once.

The Expo Turns Ideas Into Business Opportunities

Complementing the conference program was the NRCE 2026 Expo, which transformed the exhibition halls into a marketplace for retail solutions and emerging technologies.

Hundreds of exhibitors showcased products and services covering major areas of the retail ecosystem, including artificial intelligence, point-of-sale and payment systems, logistics and supply chain, warehousing, e-commerce, omnichannel solutions, store design, marketing, financial technology, sustainability, business services, and emerging retail technologies.

The exhibition provided retailers with an opportunity to move from discussion to actual implementation—seeing technologies in action, comparing solutions, meeting suppliers, and exploring potential partnerships.

More importantly, the expo demonstrated that innovation in retail is not limited to large corporations. Solutions displayed across the exhibition floor offered opportunities for businesses at different stages of growth to improve operations, customer engagement, efficiency, and competitiveness.

Learning to Adapt Is Becoming a Competitive Advantage

NRCE 2026 also placed considerable attention on resilience.

Retail businesses are operating in an environment where consumer expectations change quickly, new technologies emerge continuously, and disruption can reshape entire categories.

A fireside discussion involving Roxanne Farillas of RAFFCO/Plains & Prints, Toby Claudio of Toby’s Sports, and Paolo Misa of PUMA Philippines, moderated by Mary Jade T. Roxas-Divinagracia of PwC Philippines, highlighted how established businesses can respond to disruption by adapting and reinventing themselves rather than simply trying to preserve the status quo.

That same spirit extended to discussions on Filipino brands and global competitiveness. Josh Boutwood, Mark Ocampo, and Abi Marquez explored how Filipino products and brands can compete internationally through authenticity, craftsmanship, and compelling storytelling.

Keeping the Customer at the Center

The conference ultimately returned to one of the most enduring principles in retail: understand the customer.

The closing fireside conversation between Teresita Sy-Coson, Chairperson of SM Investments Corporation, and Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls, moderated by Rico Hizon, reflected on the evolution of Philippine retail and the leadership philosophy associated with the late Henry Sy Sr.—most importantly, putting the customer first.

The lesson remains relevant even as retail becomes increasingly digital.

Technology can make transactions faster. Data can make decisions smarter. Artificial intelligence can make operations more efficient.

But sustainable retail success still depends on understanding people and creating experiences that customers value.

A New Chapter for Philippine Retail

As NRCE 2026 concluded, delegates left SMX Convention Center Manila with more than ideas from the conference and discoveries from the exhibition floor. The event created opportunities for retailers and suppliers to connect, businesses to explore partnerships, and industry leaders to reflect on how they can prepare for the next phase of retail transformation.

The conclusion of NRCE 2026 also marked an important moment for the PRA as it celebrates five decades of bringing Philippine retailers together.

From its role in giving retailers a collective industry voice to its continuing work in collaboration, education, advocacy, and industry development, the PRA’s 50th anniversary provided a powerful reminder that retail has always been an industry in motion.

The challenges ahead will be significant. Artificial intelligence will continue to reshape jobs and processes. Consumer expectations will continue to evolve. Digital commerce will continue to change the competitive landscape. Sustainability and responsible business practices will become increasingly important.

Yet the message from NRCE 2026 was ultimately optimistic.

Retail will change. Technology will evolve. But people, purpose, collaboration, and the courage to move forward will continue to matter.

For Philippine retailers, the challenge is no longer simply to keep up.

It is to learn faster, adapt smarter, serve customers better, and create the next opportunity.

New. Next. Forward. The journey continues.

Source: Philippine Retailers Association, “PRA at 50: Moving Philippine Retail Forward at the 32nd NRCE,” updated August 11, 2026.

via The Philippines Herald

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