Score PHP 1K off the Vivo V40 Lite: Limited-Time Promo Until April 16

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - Looking for the perfect smartphone upgrade? Now’s the best time! Vivo is offering an exclusive Php 1,000 discount on the stylish and powerful Vivo V40 Lite until April 16, 2025. Don’t miss out on this limited-time deal that makes premium features more affordable than ever!

Upgrade to the Vivo V40 Lite at these unbeatable prices:

• Vivo V40 Lite 5G (12GB+512GB) – From Php 18,999 to Php 17,999

• Vivo V40 Lite 5G (8GB+256GB) – From Php 15,999 to Php 14,999

• Vivo V40 Lite 4G (8GB+256GB) – From Php 13,999 to Php 12,999

Why Vivo V40 Lite is the best deal right now

If you're after a smartphone that delivers power, style, and innovation, the Vivo V40 Lite is the perfect match. Here’s why this limited-time discount makes it a must-buy:

5000mAh Battery with 4-Year Health Guarantee – Stay powered up all day with a battery designed for long-lasting performance. No need to worry about battery degradation—this one’s built to last four years while maintaining optimal capacity.
80W FlashCharge – With ultra-fast 80W charging, you can go from 0 to 80% in just 30 minutes, keeping you connected and unstoppable.

50MP AI-Powered Camera with AI Aura Light – Take stunning portraits with a high-resolution 50MP main camera. The AI Aura Light ensures perfect lighting in every shot, so your selfies and portraits look flawless anytime, anywhere.

Don’t wait too long as this special Php 1,000 discount is only available until April 16, 2025! Head over to your nearest Vivo concept store or kiosk to grab this amazing deal. Check the vivo website for the full specs.

Unstoppable Power – The Perfect Duo with a 10,000mAh Mega Battery!

From back-to-back live selling and relentless delivery runs to marathon streaming sessions under the scorching sun—your phone should be your greatest ally. But what if it could be more? What if there was a game-changer on the horizon?

The Battery That Refuses to Quit

Imagine a 10,000mAh beast—a phone and a charging case combined. Say goodbye to low-battery anxiety and hello to unstoppable power. Whether you’re navigating the streets for hours, binge-watching through the night, or grinding through daily hustles, this phone keeps going. Charge once. Conquer everything.

Sunlight? No Problem

A massive, ultra-bright display that dominates daylight, ensuring crystal-clear visuals no matter where you are. Whether you’re shooting content, gaming on the go, or checking orders under the sun, this screen doesn’t back down. Content creators, this is your golden hour—on demand.

Built for the Hustlers

A phone that laughs in the face of chaos. Rumors say it’s wrapped in weather-proof armor, built to survive unexpected drops, splashes, and the roughest rides. If you’re constantly on the move, this might just be your next workhorse.

Speed That Keeps Up

A flagship-level processor that crushes lag, paired with massive storage for 4K vlogs, non-stop downloads, and essential apps. Whether you’re editing videos, running multiple gig apps, or multitasking at lightning speed, this phone is built to handle it all.

The Mystery Deepens

Some details remain under wraps—but here’s what we dare to ask:

• Can a single charge really last an entire shift and a TikTok binge?

• What makes this display outdoor-proof?

• Is this the ultimate device for the Philippines’ unpredictable weather?

The Countdown Begins

Something big is coming in late April. The kind of upgrade that redefines what a phone can do. Keep your eyes on every update—because this isn’t just another smartphone. It’s a revolution.

Schneider Electric Champions Energy Efficiency as Key to Business Resilience

Manila, Philippines – As climate change and rising energy costs continue to impact businesses, Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has reinforced its call for Philippine businesses to prioritize energy efficiency as the fastest and most cost-effective route to sustainability.

Ireen Catane, Country President of Schneider Electric Philippines, recently stressed that energy efficiency is no longer a choice but an imperative for businesses aiming to remain competitive and resilient.

“In the Philippines, we have seen an increase in the Green Impact Gap by 5 points since last year’s survey, reaching 46%. While 98% of companies have sustainability goals, only 52% are taking comprehensive steps to meet them,” said Catane. “We need to better understand how we can work together to close this gap. Energy efficiency is the most immediate and impactful solution businesses can adopt today.”

Schneider Electric pioneered the use of the Green Impact Gap to measure the misalignment between companies' declared commitment towards their sustainability goals and the tangible actions to implement sustainable development.

Energy Efficiency: A Business Imperative

Schneider Electric reports that rising climate risks have led to unstable energy costs and supply chain disruptions, already impacting 41% of businesses in Asia. Moreover, artificial intelligence-driven computing demand is expected to increase data center power consumption by 4.2 times by 2028, further straining energy resources and amplifying the need for smarter energy management.

Schneider Electric’s insights align with data from the PE2. Alexander Ablaza, President of PE2, highlighted the financial and environmental benefits of energy efficiency, stating that businesses could save billions in operational costs while cutting carbon emissions. However, he noted that many companies are still in the process of prioritizing and mainstreaming sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives in their day-to-day operations.

At the same conference, Schneider Electric outlined a three-step approach for businesses to effectively close the Green Impact Gap: Strategize, Digitize, and Decarbonize.

• Strategize: Develop a clear roadmap to sustainability with measurable targets.

• Digitize: Leverage data and automation to monitor and optimize energy consumption.

• Decarbonize: Implement solutions that drive emissions reduction and long-term energy savings.

By adopting these steps, businesses can unlock financial and operational benefits. Schneider Electric’s research found that energy-efficient buildings not only reduce operational costs but also enhance property value and business reputation. Moreover, 42% of Philippine-based companies surveyed recognized new business opportunities arising from improved energy efficiency.

A Call to Action for Philippine Enterprises

Schneider Electric, alongside other representatives from both the public and private sector, reaffirmed its commitment to helping businesses navigate the energy transition through advanced solutions and strategic partnerships. “The path to sustainability is clear. Companies that act now will be the ones that thrive. The technology and expertise to drive energy efficiency already exist, and businesses must take decisive steps to turn commitments into real impact,” Catane emphasized.

With regulatory frameworks like the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act in place, the private sector faces increasing pressure to implement energy efficiency measures. Schneider Electric and industry leaders present during the conference highlighted that adopting these solutions is essential for long-term business sustainability and competitiveness in the Philippines.

Regional Growth Booming for Startups in 2024 - QBO Innovation Study

Manila, Philippines — The Philippine startup ecosystem is experiencing significant growth, with regional hubs expanding across the country.

This is the finding of the 2024 Startup Ecosystem Mapping Reports by QBO Innovation, the Philippines’ first public-private initiative geared towards providing a platform for the startup community to collaborate, develop, and grow.

The initiative is in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology through the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) and the Strategic and Collaborative Alliance for Leveraging Ecosystem of Startups - National Capital Region (SCALE NCR).

Through discussion with key community drivers, gathering local insights, and validating data, the reports provide a comprehensive overview of each ecosystem’s current state, identifying movers and champions, available resources, success stories, and growth potential. Most importantly, they offer actionable insights on how ecosystem enablers can drive further development and foster long-term sustainability.

The reports focused on providing critical insights into five key locales: Region I (Ilocos Region), Lanao del Norte, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, and General Luna, Surigao del Norte.

According to the report, Iloilo stands out for its strong government support, with local policies and initiatives designed to foster startup growth, a model that other emerging startups could learn from. Negros Occidental benefits from strong collaboration between the academe and industry, creating a steady pipeline of talent and fostering innovation in Metro Bacolod’s growing startup scene. The report has found Lanao del Norte has a thriving base of young tech talent, supported by academic institutions and active local enablers driving interest in entrepreneurship. Meanwhile, General Luna is home to a vibrant community of digital nomads and tech workers, presenting opportunities to integrate this talent into startup activities, while Region I is witnessing increasing startup activity, particularly in key urban centers like Laoag and Dagupan, where innovation is beginning to take root.

While there is budding growth in the areas surveyed, the report reveals that startups across all locations still face challenges in scaling, with limited access to funding, industry connections, and broader markets. While local ecosystems are growing, many startups struggle to expand beyond their immediate communities. Strengthening investment opportunities and industry linkages will be key to helping regional startups scale nationally and globally.

"Regional development is essential to strengthening the country’s overall innovation landscape. These reports serve as a roadmap for empowering local startup ecosystems, bridging gaps, and unlocking new opportunities for innovation-driven growth. For startup founders and aspiring tech entrepreneurs, this means greater access to support networks, funding opportunities, and industry collaborations that can help turn ideas into scalable ventures. By working together, ecosystem builders, policymakers, and investors can fuel the next wave of Philippine startups, ensuring that innovation thrives in every corner of the country," said Alwyn Rosel, Executive Director of QBO Innovation.

The 2024 Startup Ecosystem Mapping Reports were also made possible in partnership with local enablers, including UMWAD Western Visayas, the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) Bannuar Technology Business Incubator (TBI), the Surigao del Norte State University (SNSU) WAVES TBI, the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) iDEYA, the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U) Kwadra TBI, and the Technological University of the Philippines Visayas (TUPV) HIVE TBI.

Building on the success of the 2024 reports, QBO Innovation is already underway with the 2025 initiative, with visits to Cagayan and Isabela. They encourage other locales to partner and contribute to this ongoing effort, facilitating a broader understanding and strengthening of the Philippine startup ecosystem.

To know more about the 2024 Startup Ecosystem Mapping Reports, you may download the full reports at https://bit.ly/2024StartupMappingReport or visit www.qboinnovation.com and @QBOInnovation on social media. Additionally, for more information about SCALE NCR and its initiatives, you may visit their Facebook and LinkedIn pages.

Coca-Cola Philippines and Partners Help Empower 2,000 Women Entrepreneurs Through iSTAR Program

The Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation (NWTF), a long-time partner of Coca-Cola Philippines, hosted the first-ever Hybrid Mass Graduation Ceremony for the iSTAR Program in Bacolod, Negros Occidental on February 1, 2025. This milestone aligns with Coca-Cola Philippines’ commitment to economic empowerment, particularly for women in grassroots communities.

The graduation ceremony brought together 2,000 graduates who joined in person or virtually and reinforced the program’s role in uplifting women entrepreneurs nationwide.

This marked a major achievement for the iSTAR Program in Western Visayas, particularly in Region VI, highlighting its role in equipping entrepreneurs with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to build and sustain their businesses.

“For over 112 years, Coca-Cola Philippines has been refreshing the lives of Filipinos and making a positive difference in our communities, said Ivanna Dela Torre, Senior Director of Public Affairs, Communication, and Sustainability at Coca-Cola Philippines.

The event was attended by key TESDA (Technical Education & Skills Development Authority) officials, including Director General Sec. Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez, Deputy Director General for Special Concerns Felizardo R. Colombo, Executive Director of the Partnerships and Linkages Office Floramel Joy C. Songsong, Chief of the National Training Center for Women Mylene H. Somera, and TESDA regional and provincial representatives.

Strengthening partnerships for greater impact

iSTAR graduate and Sari-sari Store and Bakery owner Catherine Gallano shared how the program equipped her with the essential skills and knowledge for her entrepreneurial success. Through the initiative’s digital learning platform, she also gained confidence in financial management and customer engagement, allowing her to expand her business.

“The iSTAR program has been incredibly beneficial as it empowers women like me to run a sustainable business, allowing us to earn a living and enhance our quality of life”, she shared.

The success of the iSTAR Program is driven by the strong collaboration between Coca-Cola Philippines, TESDA, and the NWTF. TESDA has played a key role in expanding the program’s reach by providing training and certification, as well as making iSTAR’s modules free and accessible nationwide through the TESDA Online Program, ensuring more aspiring entrepreneurs can benefit from the initiative.

“You get addicted to learning; you get addicted to [the] growth of learning for yourself and sharing your learning through training others as well. Spread the message: TESDA is here to make sure that no Filipino potential goes to waste. We are here to ensure that you have the skills that you need for whatever you or your family aspires for. That we are here to help you from training to [trabaho],” said Sec. Benitez.

The NWTF has been instrumental in implementing iSTAR in grassroots communities. Its commitment to championing entrepreneurship has played a key role in ensuring that program participants—especially women—receive the necessary training and support to sustain their businesses.

"Loans are just part of it; we need loans to have capital, but the heart of Project Dungganon is to support, maximize, and protect the business. iSTAR is one of the programs Dungganon delivers in order to capacitate our members to better their businesses,” said Gilbert Stephan Maramba, Director for Operations at the NWTF.

Expanding support through the Centers for Entrepreneurship

Launched in 2020, the iSTAR Program is a free entrepreneurship training initiative by Coca-Cola Philippines and TESDA. It is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills for starting and managing retail businesses through digital platforms.

In July 2024, Coca-Cola Philippines launched Centers for Entrepreneurship (CFEs) in seven key areas under the iSTAR Program. These hubs serve as sustainable spaces for ongoing training, mentorship, and financial support, ensuring that small business owners have access to resources that help them thrive.

“To our graduates, your journey does not end here. The CFEs are your "go-to" spaces for continuous learning, business mentoring, and exploring new opportunities for innovation. As graduates, you are always welcome to visit the NWTF CFE, where you’ll find support and guidance to help you grow and sustain your businesses,” Dela Torre added.

For more information about the iSTAR Program, visit the Coca-Cola Philippines Sustainability Hub: https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/brands/coca-cola/sustainability.