Category: Business Mirror

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said on Sunday it recorded an 18 percent decline in fiber cut incidents during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year, crediting the improvement to enhanced security measures and closer collaboration with local communities and government units.

The telecommunications giant attributed the progress to its Fiber Cut Task Force (FCTF), a cross-functional initiative launched in 2024 to address disruptions that have historically affected customer connectivity across the country.

‘The improvements demonstrate Globe’s commitment to ensuring a consistent and reliable network for all our customers,’ Globe Senior Vice-President Joel R. Agustin said. ‘A reliable network is essential to support the country’s growing digital economy, and these results affirm that our proactive approach is delivering measurable results.’

Agustin said the task force has focused on strengthening infrastructure resilience through multiple initiatives ‘such as enhancing cable layout design methodology to ensure existing and upcoming aerial and underground fiber layout are resilient against roadworks and external threats.’

Globe also completed 1,500 kilometers of underground fiber facilities nationwide during the period, preventing an estimated 192 fiber cut incidents and network disruptions.

With these programs, Globe reduced recurring incidents in ‘chronic grids’ by up to 93 percent.

Cable theft and pilferage remain leading causes of intentional fiber cuts, prompting Globe to adopt a ‘two-pronged’ strategy combining technology deterrents and community partnership. This includes the roll out of a CCTV deterrent program initially in Barangay Tatalon, Quezon City. Since then, incidents dropped by 80 percent, prompting Globe to install live surveillance cameras in other areas in Quezon City, Manila, Pasig, and Makati.

Globe has also partnered with local government officials to implement livelihood and wellness programs in communities previously vulnerable to cable theft, shifting from a purely enforcement approach to ‘sustainable community engagement.’

‘The telco landscape is shifting, and we need hyperfocused, proactive measures to safeguard our infrastructure,’ Agustin said. ‘Our collaboration with the communities and LGUs, plus our preventive maintenance programs are helping ensure a more stable, secure network for customers nationwide.’

Agustin noted that Globe continues to expand its network resiliency initiatives, with plans covering 1,200 wireless and broadband nodes and 1,600 kilometers of backbone fiber slated for underground migration.

He added that ‘Globe remains focused on further strengthening its fiber network nationwide, combining engineering precision, community partnership, and proactive maintenance to build a network that keeps the Philippines connected and future-ready.’

GLOBAL fashion brand Fendi introduces Fendi 925, the house’s new men’s fashion jewelry line crafted entirely from sterling silver. Featured in the Fall/Winter 2025-26 centenary fashion show, the collection redefines men’s jewelry, offering bold, contemporary design inspired by the world of high-end gemstones.

With Fendi 925, artistic director of Jewelry Delfina Delettrez Fendi draws on her expertise in high jewelry and reimagines the allure of precious stones through the lens of sterling silver.

Inspired by the captivating cuts and settings typically reserved for diamonds and gems, the collection masterfully ‘Fendifies’ these signature forms onto a selection of pendant and chain necklaces and bracelets, band and signet rings and a mono earring. The classic diamond cut and refined bezel setting are reinterpreted and meticulously crafted entirely in sterling 925 with injections of the iconic FF logo, creating pieces that are both unexpected and quintessentially Fendi.

The result is a dynamic and attractive collection that elevates sterling silver into a testament of Fendi’s mastery in materials, sense of fun and innovative spirit. The collection is available beginning October in selected Fendi boutiques worldwide and on www.fendi.com.

WHILE Senator Christopher Go maintains delicadeza in public service by not interfering with transactions involving relatives or those seen with potential conflict of interest, he emphasized that he would not hesitate to file cases himself against anyone if warranted by any wrongdoing. He also stressed that he supports efforts to anomalous anomalous infrastructure projects as long as the truth prevails and no one must be above the law.

Speaking to reporters at the Senate on Thursday, October 16, Go addressed allegations linking his family to supposed irregularities in public works projects. He clarified that his father, who was once engaged in private construction, had already left the industry years ago.

‘Retired na po siya noon pang 2019,’ Go said, referring to his father. ‘Tinapos lang nila ang mga proyekto noon, pero hindi na ginagamit ang lisensya. Officially, around 2022 talagang sinara na.’

Go underscored that he has never intervened in any government project or benefited from any transactions involving his relatives.

‘Hindi po ako negosyante. Hindi ako contractor. Nag-trabaho lang po ako bilang senador,’ he explained.

‘Hindi ko ginamit ang posisyon ko para bigyan ng pabor ang kamag-anak ko. Wala akong kinalaman sa negosyo nila, at hindi rin ako nakinabang.’

He reiterated his readiness to cooperate with any investigation and even serve as a complainant if evidence warrants it.

‘Kung may kasalanan sila, ako mismo ang magpa-file ng kaso. Ako mismo ang complainant. Kung may pagkukulang o anomalya, panagutin,’ Go said.

The senator also remarked that no one can choose their family members, but accountability should always prevail. ‘Kung pwede lang pumili ng kamag-anak, papalitan ko na sana,’ he said. ‘Pero kahit sino pa sila, kung may kasalanan, kasuhan.’

Go concluded by urging authorities to remain focused on facts and the truth. ‘Ang importante, tumbukin natin ang katotohanan. Huwag ilihis ang isyu, huwag lokohin ang Pilipino,’ he appealed.

The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) stands firm to its commitment to protecting the privacy and personal data of all its members. Its feedback channel through the Corporate Action Center does not collect personal information on official social media pages such as Facebook, X (formerly twitter), YouTube, Instagram, Tiktok and Spotify.

This commitment aligns with the broader national push for data security, a priority emphasized by President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr.’s vision of a digitally secure Philippines.

PhilHealth assures everyone that its official social media platforms are used solely for:

Disseminating official information

Responding to general inquiries

Directing members to appropriate channels for specific concerns

Members are reminded to never share personal details such as full name, address, birthdate, or PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN) on social media platforms.

For queries involving PIN Verification, claims status, contribution history, and other matters, members should contact PhilHealth through its official hotlines and email. These channels are designed to safely handle personal data in accordance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012. Members may also refer to the Privacy Notice posted on PhilHealth official website at www.philhealth.gov.ph/privacy/ .

PhilHealth also encourages the public to be watchful and report any suspicious activity or unofficial accounts claiming to represent the agency.

For official updates and assistance, please contact the PhilHealth Corporate Action Center through the following channels:

NEW Naia Infra Corp. said on Sunday the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) has met International Civil Aviation Organization (Icao) standards for emergency response after its teams reached a simulated crash site in under three minutes during a major drill over the weekend.

According to the San Miguel Corp.-led company, the response time meets Icao’s requirements for aircraft rescue and firefighting services, which mandate that airport emergency teams reach the midpoint of the farthest runway within three minutes under optimal conditions.

NNIC conducted the Crash Rescue Exercise (CREX) 2025 on October 17 to test coordination and emergency response capabilities across airport units and partner agencies.

More than 600 participants took part in the 51-minute drill.

The exercise simulated an aircraft carrying 120 passengers and six crew members that ingested foreign object debris on the runway, causing engine damage, a fuel leak, and fire.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap) and the Airline Operators Council (AOC) supervised and evaluated the simulation, assessing how responders communicated, coordinated, and established command structures under pressure in accordance with global aviation safety protocols.

NNIC’s Rescue and Firefighting Service led the operation, supported by the airport’s Medical Services, Operations, Security Group, and Aerodrome Safety and Wildlife Hazard Management Office. The Manila International Airport Authority (Miaa), the Police, and Bureau of Fire Protection units from nearby cities also participated.

Medical and disaster response teams from the Philippine Red Cross, Metro Manila Development Authority, and several hospitals joined the drill, while Philippine Airlines activated its CARE team and Survivor Reception Area to assist in passenger management.

San Miguel Beer snapped a two-game skid by beating Rain or Shine, 111-93, on Sunday to finally barge to win column in Season 50 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup at the Ynares Center in Montalban, Rizal.

The Beermen, relying heavily on the firepower from CJ Perez and Marcio Lassiter, made sure to control the game throughout the first period up to the last minute, enough to give them their first victory after three games.

Perez unloaded 23 points while Lassiter fired all his 18 points in the second half with nine-time Most Valuable Player June Mar Fajardo providing the Beermen with 14 of his 17 points in the final quarter and grabbing 14 rebounds.

‘We are not in top shape compared to other teams because they started their training two months ago unlike us because I gave them time to relax and enjoy,’ SMB coach Leo Austria said. ‘I am happy that we finally ended the losing streak.’

SMB lost to NLEX and Phoenix Super LPG.

Rain or Shine fell to 1-1 win-loss record after its close win against Meralco. Adrian Nocum led the Elastopainters with 17 points.

Meanwhile, Meralco nipped Magnolia, 78-76, behind CJ Cansino’s 23 points and Aaron Black’s 17 points that extended its winning streak to three games for a 3-2 win-loss slate.

Magnolia dropped to 2-1. Jerom Lastimosa scored 22 points and Zav Lucero had 14 points to lead the Hotshots.

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said on Sunday it recorded an 18 percent decline in fiber cut incidents during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year, crediting the improvement to enhanced security measures and closer collaboration with local communities and government units.

The telecommunications giant attributed the progress to its Fiber Cut Task Force (FCTF), a cross-functional initiative launched in 2024 to address disruptions that have historically affected customer connectivity across the country.

‘The improvements demonstrate Globe’s commitment to ensuring a consistent and reliable network for all our customers,’ Globe Senior Vice-President Joel R. Agustin said. ‘A reliable network is essential to support the country’s growing digital economy, and these results affirm that our proactive approach is delivering measurable results.’

Agustin said the task force has focused on strengthening infrastructure resilience through multiple initiatives ‘such as enhancing cable layout design methodology to ensure existing and upcoming aerial and underground fiber layout are resilient against roadworks and external threats.’

Globe also completed 1,500 kilometers of underground fiber facilities nationwide during the period, preventing an estimated 192 fiber cut incidents and network disruptions.

With these programs, Globe reduced recurring incidents in ‘chronic grids’ by up to 93 percent.

Cable theft and pilferage remain leading causes of intentional fiber cuts, prompting Globe to adopt a ‘two-pronged’ strategy combining technology deterrents and community partnership. This includes the roll out of a CCTV deterrent program initially in Barangay Tatalon, Quezon City. Since then, incidents dropped by 80 percent, prompting Globe to install live surveillance cameras in other areas in Quezon City, Manila, Pasig, and Makati.

Globe has also partnered with local government officials to implement livelihood and wellness programs in communities previously vulnerable to cable theft, shifting from a purely enforcement approach to ‘sustainable community engagement.’

‘The telco landscape is shifting, and we need hyperfocused, proactive measures to safeguard our infrastructure,’ Agustin said. ‘Our collaboration with the communities and LGUs, plus our preventive maintenance programs are helping ensure a more stable, secure network for customers nationwide.’

Agustin noted that Globe continues to expand its network resiliency initiatives, with plans covering 1,200 wireless and broadband nodes and 1,600 kilometers of backbone fiber slated for underground migration.

He added that ‘Globe remains focused on further strengthening its fiber network nationwide, combining engineering precision, community partnership, and proactive maintenance to build a network that keeps the Philippines connected and future-ready.’

Halloween may be hovering around the corner, yet what is strongly being felt now is the cheerful air of the holidays. So before the mad rush of shoppers begins, consider this nice list as your gift guide:

MUJI AT GLORIETTA

MUJI, which is short for Mujirushi Ryohin, meaning ‘no-brand quality goods,’ opened its largest and first flagship store in the Philippines at Glorietta Mall in Makati City. Embodying its retail mantra of ‘simplicity, functionality, and thoughtful design,’ it offers more than 7,000 meticulously designed products such as clothing and household essentials to food, furniture, and interior-design solutions.

The Japanese lifestyle brand covers approximately over 2,600 square meters, housing the largest Coffee Counter, which can sit around 122 diners, and the newest and unique Muji Bakery, which is exclusive to this store and a first in the Philippines.

ABC-MART AT BGC

Japan’s famed footwear retail giant ABC-MART Grand Stage officially opens at Bonifacio High Street in Taguig City. Spanning two floors and 750 square meters, the store is a haven for shoe and sportswear lovers. ‘From the store design to the curated selections and exclusive offerings, every detail was thoughtfully considered to create a destination that goes beyond just shopping for shoes. It’s an experience in itself just being in [inside the store],’ said Kabir Buxani, director of the SONAK Retail Group.

UNIQLO AT GREENHILLS

Uniqlo opens its 80th store in the Philippines at Greenhills Mall, San Juan. The brand’s LifeWear Apparel, which comes from the Japanese values of simplicity, quality and longevity, is front and center.

The opening of a new branch was also an opportunity to advance the brand’s strong sustainability efforts, as it partnered with the San Juan-based Performing Arts and Recreation Center (PARC) Foundation to provide LifeWear items and a day of fun to its young beneficiaries. The PARC is a non-profit organization that harnesses the power of performing arts to transform lives, especially of the youth.

SIP2GLOW

Sip2Glow is a drink whose mission is to provide scientific, natural and effective beauty solutions that empower women to achieve beauty from within.

Sip2Glow’s Medical Consultant Dr. Rico Sebastian shared: ‘Achieving truly radiant skin means working from the inside out and that’s where Sip2Glow’s Advanced Collagen Drink and Advanced Brightening Drink work perfectly together. While collagen strengthens the skin’s foundation by improving elasticity, reducing wrinkles, and supporting healthy hair and nails, the brightening drink boosts your glow with Glutathione, White Tomato, and Hyaluronic Acid to lighten dark spots, even out skin tone, and deeply hydrate. Together, they build and reveal your healthiest, glowiest skin-firm, smooth, and naturally luminous.’

NIVEA EXTRA BRIGHT BODY SERUM

THIS product comes in two variants: the pink bottle is infused with vitamins C and A for a supple, dewy glow, while the orange version combines vitamins C and E to deliver bouncy, radiant skin.

This game-changing body serum is formulated to deeply nourish, hydrate and brighten the skin, powered by their first ever Triple Bright Power combination-consisting of 50x Pure Vitamin C for intense skin brightening, Glutathione for the revitalization of dull skin, and Niacinamide for a smooth, even skin tone. ‘This new product has triple bright power and your skin stays visibly bright and beautiful. Own your confidence because it starts with how you feel in your own skin,’ shared Cat Relator, the brand manager for body and creams.

NEW MOON PH

NEW Moon PH, a leading wellness and beauty brand, is holding Power Within, a heartfelt campaign running from September to October 2025 in honor of PCOS Awareness Month, Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Mental Health Awareness Month.

At the heart of this campaign is Jonah Sison-Ramos, the CEO: ‘As someone who has experienced the challenges of PCOS, I know how important it is to have access to support, awareness, and the right wellness tools. With this campaign, we want women to know they are not alone, and that taking care of themselves is an act of power,’ she shared, as her brand’s Hormo Balance partnered with Miss Universe Philippines 2025 queens. Hormo Balance may help support cycles, skin clarity, mood and energy-so you can feel more balanced from within. It also supports regular menstrual cycles, reduces acne and unwanted hair, improves fertility potential, and stabilizes mood and energy levels.

KIM SUNOO FOR 8SECONDS

K-pop idol Kim Sunoo of Enhypen graced the opening of the South Korean fashion brand 8seconds’ flagship store at SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City, its first store outside of his country.

8seconds, a casual-wear brand that offers products with good quality, diverse concepts, and reasonable price ranges at a faster speed, also aims to break away from repetitive routines and similar styles.

Its second store is set to open at Uptown Mall in Bonifacio Global City later this year.

MAX MARA AT GREENBELT

Max Mara, the Italian fashion brand that markets upscale ready-to-wear clothing, introduces the Whitney Bag at its Greenbelt 3 store in Makati.

‘Research, design and innovation are the common values that link the Whitney Bag to the brand’s DNA. Architectural elements, expressed in rigorous lines and distinctive details, are as much a feature of the coats as they are of the Whitney Bag-inspired by the famous Whitney Museum in New York,’ said Maria Giulia Prezioso Maramotti, Max Mara Fashion Group Board Member, in a statement.

The Whitney Bag is a one-of-a-kind creation that owes its uniqueness to the collaboration with the Renzo Piano Building Workshop. Its distinctive design and rigorous lines have allowed it to be created in various sizes and colors to meet the needs of the fashionable Filipina.

JERICHO ROSALES FOR VISION EXPRESS

Vision Express, which offers state-of-the-art vision care technology paired with a truly personal approach to eye care, launched its Unwrap the Holidays campaign with Kapamilya actor Jericho Rosales. In time for the holidays, shoppers can enjoy a Buy One, Get One (BOGO) promotion on premium eyewear ongoing until December 31. ‘The real gift for Christmas is good food, deep conversations, and being in the company of family and friends,’ shared Rosales. ‘Eyewear is the easiest yet most underrated accessory that can transform an outfit. Every moment is a gift, wrapped in Vision Express’ signature style.’

PAYING for government housing will be easier as the National Housing Authority (NHA) brings in GCash and ECPay as new online channels for beneficiaries to settle their monthly dues.

The partnership will allow NHA’s residential account holders to make real-time payments through GCash, with ECPay handling the transaction link between the mobile wallet and the agency’s billing system.

According to the NHA, the move is part of its plan to widen payment options under its ‘online payment gateways’ program, giving families ‘more convenient ways’ to keep up with their amortizations without lining up at district or regional offices.

The agency added that the effort also supports the government’s push for digital transactions under the Electronic Commerce Act of 2000 and the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018, which both require agencies to modernize their processes.

The new service is expected to go live later this year, alongside plans to set up payment kiosks near resettlement sites for easier access.

The partnership adds to NHA’s existing tie-ups with other digital payment platforms and over-the-counter partners.

Players from Italy’s national rugby team, activists and influencers recently joined Italian celebrity chef Alessandro Borghese and global actress Monique Coleman for a celebration of food and creativity on Junior World Food Day, which this year marks the 80th anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

The room buzzed with the energy of around 1,000 young students aged 9 to 13, their enthusiasm lighting up the space along with 80 high school students from the World Food Forum School Assembly. Players from Italy’s national rugby team and members of the Federazione Italiana Rugby burst through the doors passing rugby balls before being challenged by Celebrity chef Borghese to cook on stage with kids.

As FAO celebrates its 80th birthday, the organization said it is looking ahead to the future.

‘This means giving today’s youths a voice. There’s a need to work as a team – across generations and across borders-to make sure that everyone, everywhere, has enough food to eat,’ FAO Director General Qu Dongyu said.

Speakers and ‘Food Heroes’ including Indigenous Leader Judy Kipkenda, Professor and chef Ricardo Frugoli and celebrity chefs Victoire Gouloubi and Xin Ge Liu told inspirational stories, while offering tips on nutrition and healthy diets, food diversity and reducing food waste.

Young curiosity and passion filled FAO’s Plenary Hall – a space usually reserved for Members making key decisions on global food security and agriculture. Their energy was a powerful reminder of what’s needed to build a better food future: one where every idea, big or small, can help shape a more sustainable tomorrow.

The event included a lively break dance performance by Studio 7 and a performance of FAO’s 80th anniversary youth song ‘Hand in hand for Better Foods and a Better Future’ by the Piccola Orchestra di Tor Pignattara and friends. Young participants also learned about the newly opened Food and Agriculture Museum and Network (FAOMuNe), youth activities like the global Poster Contest and FAO’s work around the world.

Food forum

Junior World Food Day is part of FAO’s annual World Food Forum, a week-long series of events that featured the participation of heads of state and government, government ministers, as well as numerous representatives from the private sector, civil society, international organizations, research institutions, youth, Indigenous Peoples and other stakeholders in agrifood systems.

Notable participants this year included Pope Leo XIV, who delivered a keynote speech on World Food Day, Italian President Sergio Mattarella, and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

The World Food Forum also featured the Global Youth Forum, which brought together thousands of young changemakers, government representatives, scientists and partners, further underscoring FAO’s investment in future generations.