Category: Business Mirror

As engines roar to life, Singapore bursts into motion-not only on the track but across every corner of the city. The Grand Prix Season doesn’t begin when the lights turn green; it starts weeks, even months before. From September 26 to October 5, 2025, Grand Prix Season Singapore (GPSS) once again transformed the city into a vibrant playground of music, fashion, food, and immersive entertainment.

During this period, Singapore becomes more than a host city for Formula 1-it turns into a living, breathing stage for culture, creativity, and connection. As engines roar across the Marina Bay Street Circuit, the rest of the city comes alive with experiences that celebrate identity beyond the track.

A melting pot of Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences, Singapore’s identity is built on diversity. Every corner reflects how different cultures have shaped its community, offering visitors a glimpse into a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. From bustling hawker centres serving heritage dishes to designer collaborations and art-driven pop-ups, culture and commerce meet at every turn.

Singapore’s commitment to preserving its heritage is evident in how it repurposes historic spaces for modern use. As one tour guide explained, New Bahru was never abandoned; instead, it was thoughtfully transformed into a vibrant creative hub. The former school building now hosts pop-up stores, art showcases, workshops, and outdoor activities, offering something fresh for locals and tourists alike.

Its monthly events make it a go-to destination for those seeking new experiences, from interactive exhibitions to community gatherings. This approach, known as retrofitting, reflects Singapore’s broader vision of honoring the past while embracing the future.

Singapore also introduced me to Sri Lankan dishes for the first time at Kotuwa, a restaurant in New Bahru, and I enjoyed them more than I expected. From trying its side dishes like dahl, red lentils tempered with black mustard, to perfectly spiced mutton rolls, every bite was full of flavor.

It’s a must-try, especially for those who enjoy foods with a kick. The bold flavors and warm hospitality perfectly reflected Singapore’s mix of cultures, showing how the city’s culinary scene continues to evolve while embracing influences from across Asia.

Art and storytelling also shape the city’s cultural landscape. Singapore’s colorful murals capture stories of the past, ensuring that history remains visible in everyday life. The restored opera house in Chinatown, now converted into a boutique hotel, preserves both architecture and memory. Meanwhile, Yip Yew Chong’s famous mural Letter Writer depicts the early days of immigrant communication, reminding passersby of how letters once connected families across oceans.

From there, Chinatown offers even more to explore. Chinatown Complex, home to over 700 food stalls, provides a true taste of local life, while the nearby Maxwell Hawker Centre, famously visited by celebrities such as Lady Gaga and Dua Lipa, draws global attention to Singapore’s food heritage. Just a short walk away stands the Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple. Its intricate tower and vibrant architecture make it a must-visit for anyone seeking to appreciate the island’s spiritual and artistic roots.

Beyond its well-known landmarks, Chinatown also hides smaller gems worth discovering-from souvenir shops tucked in narrow alleys to old traditional tea houses that preserve the essence of Chinese hospitality. One of the recommended spots our tour guide mentioned was Yum Cha, known for its authentic tea experience and freshly steamed dim sum. It’s definitely on our bucket list for the next trip to Singapore.

Throughout GPSS 2025, pop-up stores and creative collaborations brought the city to life. Across town, partnerships between brands and Formula 1 teams gave fans a closer look at racing culture. Some activations even included surprise appearances by drivers, adding an extra layer of excitement and cultural immersion.

One standout was Hit the Apex at Clarke Quay, a Hot Wheels x GPSS collaboration featuring F1inspired miniatures, interactive play tracks, and a free photo booth for fans. Meanwhile, Gallery 26 in Dempsey displayed cars once driven by Formula 1 legends Kimi Räikkönen and Charles Leclerc.

During GPSS, the entire city seemed to move in sync with the rhythm of racing. From art exhibitions to exclusive dining promotions, Singapore’s Grand Prix Season extended far beyond the circuit, transforming sport into a full-fledged lifestyle celebration.

Beyond the race itself, GPSS 2025 proved that the Formula 1 weekend in Singapore is as much about cultural expression as it is about speed. The city’s creative energy, seen in its food, art, heritage, and innovation, continues to redefine what a Grand Prix experience can be.

When the checkered flag waves and the engines quiet down, Singapore keeps shining. The glow lingers not only on the circuit but in the streets, galleries, and stories that make the city come alive each Grand Prix season.

No matter how many times travelers like me return, there is always more to learn and explore. Every piece of history that Singapore preserves offer insight into the traditions and culture the city continues to carry forward. Fully immersing oneself in these experiences allows travelers to truly appreciate and even fall in love with a place that might not be their home, yet can feel like home when its stories and culture are embraced.

THE European Union has released pound 750 000 (over P50 million) in humanitarian aid to respond to the recent earthquake that struck the province of Cebu, as it expressed its solidarity with the people affected by Fridays’ two powerful earthquakes in Davao Oriental and nearby areas.

‘The EU is monitoring and assessing the situation for possible further assistance to families and communities affected by this new earthquake,’ the EU said in a statement.

The P50-million allocation released to Cebu will be used to provide emergency relief, such as shelter and water and sanitation, to the most affected population, notably displaced people who have lost their homes, the EU said.

Of the total allocation, pound 250 000 will support the Philippine Red Cross in delivering cash assistance, tents and household items to people that lost their homes, as well as healthcare services. The funding is part of the EU’s overall contribution to the Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

This new funding comes in addition to the pound 7.3 million already allocated this year in humanitarian aid and disaster preparedness to the Philippines. This included pound 1.3 allocated in response to tropical cyclones that affected the country in July and late September.

The EU funding is being made available via the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) department of the European Commission. With headquarters in Brussels and a global network of field offices, the EU helps millions of victims of conflict and disasters around the world every year, providing assistance to the most vulnerable people on the basis of humanitarian needs.

The European Union is signatory to a pound 12 million agreement with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to support the Federation’s Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF). Each time a National Red Cross or Red Crescent Society needs immediate financial support to respond to a disaster, it can request funds from the DREF, which can then be replenished by the donors.

Super app Rakuten Viber has announced the launch of Viber Marketplace (vb.me/vibermarketplaceph) in the Philippines. Within the Marketplace tab, Viber users can easily find and quickly connect with thousands of local businesses offering a wide variety of products and services, such as beauty salons, health services, restaurants, shopping, and more.

Marketplace replaces the ‘Explore’ tab and helps users discover local businesses in three convenient ways: by viewing businesses displayed for them, by browsing categories, and by searching for specific sellers. Users can explore business profiles, view product or service catalogs, and message business owners directly without sharing their phone number. This makes it simple and secure for users to ask questions, get all the information they need and make the best choice in just a few taps, all within the Viber app.

When users open the new tab, they can choose to share their exact location so they see businesses closest to them. If users prefer not to share this, they will see a selection of businesses based on general location information. As users move around the Philippines, the results update automatically. Viber Marketplace highlights the most relevant and active businesses, making it easy for users to discover helpful local options.

Viber Marketplace will strengthen communities by enabling people and businesses to connect and communicate securely within the Viber app especially as more Filipinos are becoming entrepreneurs, and more consumers are supporting these MSMEs by shopping locally. A 2022 Manulife survey reported that 41 percent of Filipino respondents had established a business and 65 percent said they started buying from small and micro businesses during the pandemic.

Despite this, many small businesses say it is hard to get noticed online (56 percent) and find new customers (60 percent). Viber Marketplace is making it easier for users to discover and support the local businesses they care about.

Announcing Rakuten Viber as the official messaging application of Go Negosyo during its recent Online Selling Summit, founder Joey Concepcion pointed to the advantages digital technology has provided local businesses and how teaming up with a super app like Viber creates better access, wider reach, and more opportunities.

‘Digital technology has already broken down so many barriers for MSMEs, increasing their access to the money, markets, and mentoring they need in order to succeed,’ Concepcion stated. ‘This partnership with Rakuten Viber as Go Negosyo’s Official Communication App marks a powerful next step. Viber has played a significant role in our mission to empower MSMEs across the Philippines.’

‘Viber’s mission as a super app is to empower both users and businesses,’ says Ritesh Shah, general manager of FinTech and VP of business solutions at Rakuten Viber. ‘Local businesses in the Philippines are highly digital and use a variety of solutions to connect with customers and stay visible. Viber is the leading communication platform in the country, and our goal is to help local businesses reach their customers more effectively, while also making it easy for people to find and chat with the businesses they need.’

Whether you’re a user eager to support local entrepreneurs, products, and services, or a small business owner looking for greater exposure to a wider user base and new customer acquisition opportunities, Viber offers you a dynamic platform to discover through Viber Marketplace.

UNIVERSITY OF SANTO TOMAS-GRADUATE SCHOOL (UST-GS) Health Research program lead and Faculty of Medicine and Surgery (FMS) academic staff Prof. Consuelo B. Gonzalez-Suarez MD, PhD was a recipient of the 34th Dr. Jose P. Rizal Award under the Research Category.

The award was presented by the Philippine Medical Association during its 118th Annual Convention.

The award recognizes outstanding contributions in various fields of medicine, namely academics, clinical practice, community development, government service, and health research in the Philippines.

Dr. Suarez has published more than 100 peer-reviewed journal articles, and currently leads the NICER Program (Niche Centers in the Regions for Research and Development) for the Center for Sports Medicine/Rehabilitation: OPLAN Atletang Pinoy, which is dedicated to conducting research aimed at improving athletic performance in the Philippines.

She also leads a groundbreaking international collaboration titled ‘Precision in Motion: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Dynamic Shoulder Ultrasound Assessment Across Ethnicities and Pain Syndromes.’ This is a joint initiative between the National Taiwan University Hospital, Beihu Branch, and UST under the Manila Economic and Cultural Office-Taipei Economic and Cultural Office program.

IT was close to midnight at Greenhills Mall, and the air outside iStudio Plus was electric. A crowd of celebrities, influencers, and die-hard Apple fans pressed forward, phones lifted high as the final seconds of the countdown echoed through the night. Then-the doors opened, lights flared, and a roar swept through the crowd. In that instant, the mall transformed into a stage for something extraordinary.

The iPhone 16 midnight launch last year became a defining moment for iStudio Plus, a vivid demonstration of how technology can merge with culture. The energy that night rivaled a sold-out concert-loud, electric, and alive with anticipation. Through that single event, iStudio Plus announced its evolution from retailer to tastemaker, from store to symbol of ambition and community.

The strategic claim on legacy

THE choice of venue, Greenhills, is perhaps the most strategic element of this entire play. For generations, this sprawling complex has been the heart of Metro Manila’s gadget commerce-a dynamic, sometimes chaotic bazaar where Filipinos built their digital lives, bought their first smartphones, and learned to haggle for the best deals. By staging its iPhone launch at Greenhills-a landmark synonymous with the country’s tech trade-iStudio Plus made its intentions clear. It wanted to bridge the global polish of the Apple experience with the local energy that defines Filipino tech culture.

That midnight event, headlined by Kiyo, Shaira Diaz, and art toy and streetwear icon Big Boy Cheng, turned a product release into a local happening. For iStudio Plus, it wasn’t just about selling devices; it was about creating a moment that welcomed people into its community. As Patrick Yeung, president and CEO of iStudio Plus, said that night, the vision extends far ‘beyond consumer tech.’ It is about ‘a vision where technology invites, inspires, and indulges you, elevating everyday life.’ This is the language of brand architects, not just box movers. It suggests that when a customer lines up at midnight, they are buying into a moment of belonging, excitement, and possibility-a spark that outlives the giveaway bundles.

Fast-forward to today, and the cycle is about to repeat with the much-anticipated iPhone 17 series launch. The rhetorical question is already being asked by the market: how will iStudio Plus manage to top the magic they created last year?

‘We’re always thinking ahead,’ Yeung insists. ‘Last year was just the beginning. This year, we want to create something that brings even more people together-something that celebrates how Apple has become part of everyday Filipino life.’

This commitment to community engagement and spectacle is the engine driving their market position.

Digital lifestyle destination

When the brand first entered the market, the goal was straightforward: to replicate the premium Apple retail experience found in global flagship stores. Filipino consumers deserved the same level of expertise, service, and ambiance. But the vision quickly matured beyond mere retail duplication.

Today, the focus is squarely on connecting technology with the modern Filipino lifestyle. iStudio Plus strives to help customers grasp how Apple and other premium devices can seamlessly enhance the way they live, create, and connect-whether it’s a student using an iPad for digital art, or a young professional editing a passion project on a MacBook.

They are no longer just selling devices; they are curating a platform for creativity and innovation. Every store layout, every staff training module, and every launch event is designed to tell this lifestyle story.

This focus on elevated experience is what separates them from the crowd. In a competitive market where pricing can be tightly controlled by the manufacturer, differentiation hinges on the intangible: trust, expertise, and community.

As they put it, ‘What drives us forward is our desire to make premium technology more accessible and meaningful for everyone. Because great tech isn’t just for a few-it’s for anyone who wants to elevate how they live.’

The dual pillars: Service with culture

iStudio Plus has successfully adopted Apple’s DNA of design and attention to detail, but they have layered it with something uniquely local: warmth and community. This cultural infusion is their secret sauce.

Their operational backbone is rooted in their certification and years of expertise: Apple Authorized Reseller (AAR) and 25 years of experience. This combination is critical. It means that within the four walls of an iStudio Plus store, a customer can complete the entire ownership lifecycle-purchasing, learning, repairing, and upgrading.

The Gold Service Provider status is particularly significant. It elevates their after-sales service from a

necessary convenience to a strategic advantage. All technicians are Apple-trained, and all processes adhere to global standards, ensuring that a repair or service issue is handled with world-class precision and care. For the discerning Filipino buyer, knowing they can walk in with a problem and leave with an authentic, fast solution builds a bedrock of loyalty that transactional discounts cannot match.

Furthermore, they have built the PLUSTRADE program, which has become a favorite among loyal customers. This initiative allows customers to trade in their old devices for credit toward a new one. This not only makes upgrading easier and more attainable-particularly in an economy sensitive to value and accessibility-but also integrates a degree of sustainability into the consumer cycle.

This focus on after-sales being ‘the heart of their strategy’ ensures that the customer relationship doesn’t terminate at the checkout counter, but strengthens with every interaction.

The strength of a multi-brand ecosystem

While Apple remains the core anchor of the brand’s identity, iStudio Plus understands that the complexity of modern life demands more than a single ecosystem. Users are rarely purists; they often employ a mix of devices for optimal performance.

‘Apple remains our foundation,’ says the team, ‘but our customers use multiple brands that work together.’ This insight led to the intelligent decision to offer select premium brands like Samsung, Shokz, Insta360 and HONOR.

By curating these additions, iStudio Plus positions itself as a multi-brand ecosystem, creating a space where the needs of the consumer-not the dictates of a single brand-are prioritized. It’s a smart, inclusive approach that accurately reflects how people truly live with technology today.

This forward-thinking strategy is now driving an ambitious nationwide expansion. Having conquered Metro Manila, they see immense, untapped potential in the provinces, where access to world-class retail experiences is still limited. Expansion is viewed as a mission of accessibility-bringing the same caliber of service and ambiance to a broader Filipino audience.

Each new branch is deliberately envisioned as a tech and lifestyle hub. Even in the age of rapid e-commerce growth, iStudio Plus believes firmly that physical stores are essential for experiential retail.

Customers need to touch, test, and truly immerse themselves in a device before making a significant purchase. Their physical spaces serve as vibrant centers for product demos, workshops, and creator events, ensuring the energy remains constant and fresh.

Nurturing the creator community

THE Apple user base has always shared a strong, almost tribal identity, and iStudio Plus has actively nurtured this through dedicated community building.

Their philosophy is simple: ‘We’re building a hub where creativity, innovation and lifestyle meet.’

Through photography workshops, content creation collaborations, and lifestyle events, the company has fostered a strong network of creators, artists, and everyday users. These gatherings go beyond mere product demonstration; they are designed to reignite the spark of inspiration-the understanding that Apple products are not just tools, but enablers of expression and connection.

This dedication to community has created not just customers, but a movement-strengthening the loyalty loop far beyond what discounts or one-time promos could ever achieve.

As iStudio Plus charges toward the future, their mission is crystallized: to shape how Filipinos experience technology. This focus on building a culture that seamlessly connects technology with lifestyle is the foundation of their rapid, strategic growth. Whether through high-octane pop-up events, targeted campaigns, or strategically planned store openings across the archipelago, iStudio Plus is fundamentally redefining what premium tech retail means in the Philippines-making sophistication both accessible and deeply meaningful.

The next big moment

With the iPhone 17 Series launch set for October 16-17, 2025, at iStudio Plus, Bonifacio High Street, the brand is once again gearing up for an experience that goes far beyond the usual product release. From 9 pm until midnight, expect the signature midnight countdowns, exclusive bundles, trade-in programs, and surprise guests-all designed to celebrate how the iPhone has become part of everyday Filipino life.

But beyond the spectacle lies something more lasting: a sense of community, belonging, and shared inspiration.

Because what truly defines iStudio Plus is not how many devices it sells, but how many stories it sparks.

And as the countdown begins anew, one thing is certain-this story has only just begun.

The House Committee on Public Accounts is urging the Commission on Audit to conduct a specialized forensic audit into the alleged irregular use of P6.5 billion in funds released to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao under the 2024 Local Gov’t. Support Fund.

In Committee Report No. 1502, lawmakers sought an in-depth investigation to determine if any violations of law were committed in the disbursement of the funds, which were reportedly released within the span of only four months while the BARMM management was then under Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim.

The committee noted that a ‘systematic scheme to redirect public funds’ may have taken place, warranting a probe beyond standard audit procedures. It emphasized that the COA should employ forensic capabilities to trace the flow of money and identify any potential misuse.

According to the committee report, approximately P1.5 billion was disbursed each month during the period under review, prompting concerns over the speed and scale of the releases.

The probe also uncovered testimonies from local officials who claimed they received funds for projects that were neither requested nor implemented. Some officials said they were later instructed to return the money after the projects were cancelled.

The committee’s findings pointed to possible political favoritism in the allocation of funds, particularly in favor of local government units and barangays believed to be allied with the United Bangsamoro Justice Party.

The House panel members said that the investigation must determine whether these fund releases were used for political advantage ahead of the supposed May 2025 BARMM Parliamentary Election.

The panel report described the situation as a ‘complex operation’ designed to divert public resources for political and personal purposes under the administration of then CM Ebrahim, who also serves as president of the UBJP.

Documents and testimonies presented during committee hearings indicated that the P6.5-billion fund was distributed to LGUs and barangays within a short time frame, with some receiving up to P25 million, while opposition-leaning areas reportedly received none.

The committee expressed concern that the timing and distribution pattern of the funds may have influenced local political dynamics and undermined equitable governance in the region.

In its recommendation, the panel urged the COA to scrutinize all disbursement documents, project proposals, and fund transfers to ensure transparency and accountability.

The committee clarified, however, that its report does not yet assign culpability to any individual but seeks to uncover the full facts and uphold responsible fiscal management in the BARMM.

A second powerful earthquake struck off the coast of Manay, Davao Oriental at 7:12 PM today, registering a magnitude of 6.8.

The tremor occurred just hours after a magnitude 7.4 quake hit nearly the same area, prompting PHIVOLCS to classify the event as a ‘doublet earthquake’-a rare seismic phenomenon involving two distinct but closely timed major quakes in the same region.

According to PHIVOLCS Director Dr. Teresito C. Bacolcol, both quakes were triggered by stress along the Philippine Trench.

The epicenter of the second quake was located 36 kilometers southeast of Manay (07.49°N, 126.82°E) at a depth of 10 kilometers. It was tectonic in origin and generated strong ground shaking across multiple provinces.

A tsunami warning was issued for Surigao del Sur, Davao Oriental, and Surigao del Norte.

Coastal residents were urged to evacuate immediately, as waves reaching one meter or higher above normal sea levels could arrive within the hour.

PHIVOLCS stated that the tsunami watch is in effect between 7:12 PM and 11:12 PM.

Reported intensities included:

Intensity VI: Manay, Davao Oriental

Intensity V: Baganga, Boston, Caraga, Cateel, and Tarragona, Davao Oriental

Intensity IV: Davao City, Mati City, Bislig City, and parts of Davao de Oro

Intensity III to I: Felt across Leyte, Southern Leyte, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Dinagat Islands, and parts of Eastern and Northern Samar

Doublet earthquakes are not aftershocks, but two separate main shocks of similar magnitude occurring close in time and location.

Past examples include the 2023 Hinatuan sequence (M7.4 on Dec 2 and M6.8 on Dec 4) and the 1992 Manay doublet (M7.1 and M7.5), both linked to the Philippine Trench.

Cebu and Davao quakes not directly related, but risk remains

The recent magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Cebu and the magnitude 7.4 tremor in Davao Oriental were caused by separate fault systems and are not geologically connected, according to PHIVOLCS Director Dr. Teresito Bacolcol.

The Cebu quake originated from the Bogo Bay Fault, while the Davao quake was triggered by movement along the Philippine Trench.

Despite the lack of connection, Bacolcol emphasized that the possibility of stronger quakes cannot be ruled out. PHIVOLCS continues to monitor seismic activity across the country.

Historically, major earthquakes-like Japan’s 2011 Tohoku disaster-have been preceded by strong foreshocks. In that case, a magnitude 7.3 quake struck two days before the magnitude 9.1 mainshock. While not all seismic clusters lead to a larger event, preparedness remains essential.

THE Embassy of Japan in the Philippines is now accepting applications for the Coordinator for International Relations (CIR) and Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) positions for the 2026 Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme.

Next year marks the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines. In celebration of this commemorative year, the embassy invites all Filipino JET Programme aspirants eager to begin a new journey in Japan to submit their applications.

The JET Programme was introduced in 1987 to help deepen mutual understanding between the people of Japan and those of other countries through foreign language exchange and cultural immersion at the local level.

Since the 2025 recruitment cycle, the embassy has accepted applications for both positions. CIRs work in local government offices in Japan focusing on international exchange, while ALTs are assigned to primary to secondary education institutions and local boards of education across Japan.

This year, more than 66 JET participants were sent from the Philippines, bringing the total number of Filipino participants to over 500.

Duties and eligibilities

CIRs are placed mainly in local governments across Japan. They assist in international exchange matters by translating documents; planning, designing and implementing projects; excellent in oral and written communication with non-Japanese residents and communities; and other related tasks.

Meanwhile, ALTs work in public or private schools or local boards of education in the prefecture or municipality of their assignment. Their primary task is to assist in classes led by Japanese teachers of English.

Applicants must be Filipino citizens and possess excellent oral and written English communication skills. They should be physically and mentally fit to work abroad and hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, or be able to obtain such qualifications by the designated arrival date.

Additionally, CIR applicants must possess Japanese language proficiency (at least JLPT N2 or equivalent).

How to apply

GUIDELINES, application forms, and other requirements are available at https://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/00_000193_00001.html.

Submission deadlines are November 28, 2025 (Friday) for ALT applicants, and December 5, 2025 (Friday) for CIR applicants. Applications must be submitted via post or courier to THE JET PROGRAMME, Japan Information and Culture Center, Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, 2627 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City 1300.

CELEBRATING a decade of digital marketing innovation, the Digital Marketing Association of the Philippines (DMAP)-known for its excellence and innovation in digital marketing-will set the stage for unlocking the next evolution of customer engagement at the 10th edition of the annual Digital Congress (DigiCon) with the theme ‘The Age of ‘i’: The Power of Personalization’ to be held on October 16 and 17 at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay City.

Now in its 10th year, the major digital convention will gather global and local industry experts, thought leaders, and technology pioneers who will explore the complexities of personalization in a world driven by artificial intelligence (AI), unlocking strategies for scalable and impactful connections.

DigiCon ‘The Age of ‘i” 2025 will offer attendees opportunities to learn, interact, and collaborate through five focused tracks: Innovation (AI), Intelligence (data science), Immersive (retail and activations), Impact (brand building), and Integration (business transformation).

These tracks, along with various practical and immersive activities, aim to enable attendees to explore new trends and emerging technologies in personalized marketing, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration among industry pros.

‘We are entering an era where personalization is paramount. This year’s theme.celebrates the transformative power of technology to create unique, meaningful connections with customers. In this rapidly evolving digital landscape, brands must navigate [ways] to cultivate personal experiences in a connected world, driving stronger brand loyalty and effective customer experience.’ ‘[The event] will be the destination to empower digital marketers to navigate this era and explore the future of personalized experiences.’

Delegates of this year’s event will also have the opportunity to obtain program certifications in partnership with the Certified Digital Marketer or CDM. This initiative aligns with DMAP’s mission to future-proof the industry by providing crucial insights and skills, empowering marketers to stay ahead of the curve in the digital age amid evolving consumer behaviors and rapid technological shifts.

‘Filipinos are even more connected and are changing their habits digitally, so digital marketers must possess new levels of expertise and adaptability. [We are keen on leading the industry in navigating this complex landscape, providing key] insights and skills necessary to thrive in an era of hyper-personalization,’ DMAP President Miko David said. ‘We continue to strive toward fostering an ecosystem where innovation thrives; where professionals are equipped to shape the future of digital engagement.’

Building on past successes, DigiCon The Age of ‘i’ expects to attract over 2,000 attendees from various sectors, including marketing, advertising, business, academia, media, and innovation. To secure your spot and learn more about the event, visit https://www.digicon.com.ph ore-mail conference@dmap.com.ph.

NET foreign direct investments (FDI) inflows declined both in July 2025 and in the first seven months of the year, data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed.

On Friday, BSP said FDI net inflows declined by 7.5 percent from $1.4 billion in July 2024 to $1.3 billion in July 2025.

Also posting a contraction, FDI net inflows in the January to July 2025 period declined by 20 percent from the $5.9 billion posted in January to July 2024 to $4.7 billion in January to July 2025, BSP said.

The decrease in FDI net inflows during the month, BSP noted, resulted from lower nonresidents’ net investments in debt instruments, which fell by 39.4 percent, from $1.2 billion to $711 million.

BSP noted that net investments in debt instruments ‘consist mainly of intercompany borrowing and lending between foreign direct investors and their subsidiaries or affiliates in the Philippines.’

It also noted that the remaining portion of net investments in debt instruments are investments made by nonresident subsidiaries or associates in their resident direct investors.

However, BSP said the reduction was ‘tempered’ by the 450.6 percent increase in nonresidents’ net investments in equity capital (other than reinvestment of earnings), which rose from $76 million to $418 million.

Similarly, BSP said reinvestment of earnings grew by 14.3 percent, from $122 million to $139 million.

The top sources of equity capital placements in July 2025, per the BSP, were Japan and the United States, with investments primarily flowing into wholesale and retail trade, manufacturing, and real estate.

The BSP noted that FDIs include investment by a nonresident direct investor in a resident enterprise, whose equity capital in the latter is at least 10 percent.

It also includes the investment made by a nonresident subsidiary/associate in its resident direct investor. Net FDI flows refer to nonresidents’ net equity capital (i.e., placements less withdrawals) + reinvestment of earnings + debt instruments (i.e., net intercompany borrowings).