Leading digital solutions platform Globe has logged a new high in stopping websites associated with child pornography, illegal gambling, online piracy, and other malicious content, blocking a total of 404,730 sites and links in the first nine months of the year.

The figure marks a substantial 45% hike in barred URLs and domains compared to the 278,555 registered in the same period last year following an upgrade of its filtering capabilities in both mobile and broadband services, underscoring Globe’s commitment to creating a safer online environment.

This increase was even more pronounced in the third quarter of the year, where the number of malicious sites cut off by Globe soared by 70.8% to 267,985, compared to 156,857 reported in the same quarter of 2022.

Delving deeper into the January-September figures, Globe blocked 397,637 URLs (Uniform Resource Links), a significant rise from 275,720 in 2022. It has also successfully restricted 4,795 domains in 2023, more than three times higher than the 1,432 blocked in the previous year. Focusing on child pornography, one of the most heinous online crimes, Globe barred 2,298 domains by the end of September 2023, compared to 1,403 during the same period last year.

“Our commitment to creating a safe online environment is unwavering. We recognize the critical role we play in combating illegal online activities, especially those that exploit the most children. Our increased efforts and investments in blocking access to illegal content are a testament to our dedication to this cause,” said Anton Bonifacio, Globe’s Chief Information Security Officer.

Since 2017, Globe has been at the forefront of the fight against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) in the country through its #MakeITSafePH campaign, aligning with the Philippine government’s comprehensive war against OSAEC. Globe has invested $2.7 million in systems designed to filter content related to child pornography, illegal gambling, and online piracy, reflecting its dedication to this crucial cause.

Under the Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009 (Republic Act No. 9775), all internet service providers in the Philippines are mandated to install technology that blocks or filters access to child pornography. Globe’s efforts go beyond compliance, demonstrating a proactive approach to safeguarding digital spaces.

The urgency of these initiatives is underscored by a report from UNICEF, which showed that the Philippines has emerged as a global center for the production of child sex abuse materials. It also revealed that 80% of Filipino children are vulnerable to online sexual abuse, which in some instances is even facilitated by their parents.

A study led by the US-based National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) also identified the Philippines as one of the world’s leading sources of OSAEC content. Globe’s intensified actions against online illicit activities reflect a steadfast commitment to safeguarding the digital ecosystem. For more information about Globe and its initiatives, please visit https://www.globe.com.ph/

FundSpace, a leading loan aggregator dedicated to facilitating financing for businesses of all sizes, has entered into a strategic partnership with BPC Lending Inc. This move is set to revolutionize the accessibility of financial services to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and individual borrowers across the Philippines.

The collaboration marks a significant milestone for the 917Ventures startup company as it continues to broaden its suite of financial products, demonstrating its commitment to empowering economic growth and financial inclusion.

With BPC Lending Inc., FundSpace can now offer tailored loan options ranging from PHP5,000 to PHP200,000, addressing the needs of small sole proprietorships for more substantial business operations.

“We are beyond ecstatic for this new chapter for FundSpace, as the platform expands its services to personal loans and MSMEs. This new partnership with BPC Lending Inc. will surely encourage more individuals and business owners to seek financial assistance via FundSpace,” said Martin Luchangco, Entrepreneur-in-Residence at 917Ventures.

“BPC Lending Inc. is proud to partner with FundSpace in providing customers new sources of financial aid and expanding its reach via the introduction of personal loans to the platform. We hope that this newly forged partnership will continue to benefit us, the economy, and the Filipino people,” Alain Grey Silva, Managing Director at BPC Lending, Inc.

Through the partnership, FundSpace underscores its mission to provide financial solutions that are fast, reliable, and adaptable to the unique challenges faced by Filipinos.

Here are FundSpace’s new loan offerings
Micro Loan– ranging from Php 5,000 to Php 30,000 with terms of two to three months
Bes Loan– ranging from Php 30,000 to Php 200,000 with terms of two to 12 months

Alisa Bermudez, Venture Builder for FundSpace at 917Ventures, highlighted the impact of the partnership: “Over time, FundSpace has grown to become the preferred source of financial assistance for numerous Filipino SME owners. Hence, we express our excitement for the venture now that it has opened to personal loans, thanks to its new partnership with BPC Lending Inc.”

FundSpace’s user-friendly platform simplifies the loan application process, allowing applicants to choose their desired amount and partner and giving them guidance through the requirements swiftly and efficiently. This customer-centric approach ensures that loans are not merely financial transactions but stepping stones toward the realization of dreams and ambitions for many Filipinos.

Interested applicants are invited to visit https://fundspace.ph/ to learn more about the loan options available and to apply directly through the platform. The process is streamlined to ensure a hassle-free experience, with a dedicated team ready to assist every step of the way.

In a country where female representation in leadership roles remains a challenge, Mharicar ‘Cai’ Castillo-Reyes, President and CEO of the Asticom Group of Companies, emerges as a beacon of inspiration and excellence.

The Asticom Group of Companies, a leading tech-enabled shared services and outsourcing provider within the Globe Group, has been making waves in the business sector. This year, the company’s achievements were highlighted at the TITAN Women in Business Awards 2023.

Under the exceptional guidance of Castillo-Reyes, Asticom clinched two esteemed PLATINUM awards: “Company of the Year” and the “Fastest Growing Company of the Year.”

With such a visionary leader at the helm, Asticom has witnessed remarkable growth and innovation. In its eight years of operation, the company has catered to a diverse range of industries, achieving an impressive milestone of PHP3 billion in revenue. This achievement not only underscores Asticom’s financial success but also its role in generating thousands of job opportunities for Filipinos and aiding the nation’s economic resurgence.

Castillo-Reyes, reflecting on her journey and the broader implications of her achievements, shared, “As women leaders, it is imperative that we embrace our strengths, push the boundaries, and serve as an inspiration to others through our own unique leadership styles. We should lead with unwavering confidence, empathy, and compassion to drive positive change. Let us support and uplift each other in our pursuit of making a significant difference.”

The TITAN Women In Business Awards stands as a testament to the prowess and achievements of women entrepreneurs and leaders. With a steadfast mission to empower and recognize the indomitable spirit of women in business, the awards continue to inspire the new generation to break barriers and make a significant mark in the global business landscape.For those interested in learning more about the Asticom Group of Companies and its award-winning services, please visit https://asticom.com.ph

Leading digital solutions platform Globe blocked another record-high in fraud-linked SIMs in the first nine months of the year via its Stop Spam reporting portal, as it observed a staggering rise in the number of SIMs from other networks used in spam and scam activities.

Globe blocked a total of 154,569 SIMs in the first nine months of the year, including 148,515 from other networks blacklisted, and 6,054 from its own network deactivated. This represents a steep climb from the total 35,558 blacklisted and deactivated SIMs within the same period last year.

Notably, blacklisted SIMs– which include numbers from other networks– soared this year with 148,515 as of end September, an increase of over 667.8% from the same period last year at 19,343.

Meanwhile, the number of Globe SIMs deactivated over fraud links decreased, from 16,215 in the first nine months of 2022, to 6,054 in the same three quarters, a 62.66% decline.

“With our proactive efforts via our Stop Spam portal bolstered by the SIM Registration Law, we were able to block a new record high in SIMs linked to fraud. Through collaboration and use of technology, we are gaining headway against these criminals,” said Anton Bonifacio, Chief Information Security Officer at Globe.

The company has invested heavily in state-of-the-art systems for detecting and blocking spam. It has spent US$20 million on its Security Operations Center, which works round-the-clock to filter out unwanted messages, including app-to-person and person-to-person SMS from international and domestic sources.

Globe encourages customers to continue to report suspicious messages from unknown senders to its #StopSPAM portal.

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

Leading digital solutions platform Globe Group is out to repeat the success of its fintech arm GCash, currently the No. 1 finance super app in the country and the only double unicorn.

Ernest Cu, President and CEO of the Globe Group, said the company’s pivot into a full-fledged techco aims to provide disruptive solutions to problems that Filipinos confront day-to-day.

Speaking about the rise of GCash, Cu said: “We want to repeat that again. We look at areas where there’s a large problem to solve. It’s gotta be large because it’s got to move our needle, right?”

“So we look at a lot of nascent areas where problems continue to be pervasive and no one’s paying attention, no one’s taking the advantage of building something. If it fits the assets we have, this gives us what we call unfair advantage, then we go into it,” said Cu on NASDAQ’s Trade Talks with Jill Malandrino on the sidelines of the 2023 Singapore Fintech Festival (SFF).

Cu also spoke of the Globe Group’s ethos in a panel discussion on raising unicorns at SFF, sharing his vision of making the company responsive to the country’s problems.

In its beginnings as a core telco business, Globe solved Filipinos’ communication problems. With its solid connectivity infrastructure as foundation–  its “unfair advantage”– the Globe Group has been casting a wider and wider net. 

Today, beyond fintech, the Globe Group provides digital solutions in the areas of healthtech, adtech, edutech, climate tech, shared services, investments and entertainment.

It’s all about being responsive to customers’ evolving needs, much like how Cu practices to be responsive real-time to every message that comes his way.

“My responsiveness is almost real time. If I respond almost 24/7, there’s no reason you shouldn’t respond to me. In a way that reflects how your responsiveness is to customers right?” he said.

“At the end of the day, the Globe Group is a consumer service company. We are here to serve our consumers, whether it’s telecommunications, whether it’s healthcare, or whether it’s fintech. We want to instill that notion of responsiveness among our people, and I guess for me it starts at the top,” he added.

To learn more about Globe, visit globe.com.ph.

The Asticom Group of Companies, a leading tech shared services and outsourcing entity within the Globe Group, took home two prestigious accolades at the 2023 Stevie® Awards for Great Employers.

Asticom secured the Gold Award for its “Innovative Use of HR Technology During the Pandemic,” while its dynamic President and CEO, Mharicar Castillo-Reyes, was recognized with the Silver Award as the “People-Focused CEO of the Year.”

The Stevie® Awards for Great Employers recognizes the global best in employer practices and the HR professionals, teams, and products that cultivate exceptional workplaces.

A humbled Castillo-Reyes remarked, “We’re truly honored to once again be recognized for our efforts to support our people at Asticom. We couldn’t have achieved this without the dedication of our 5,000 plus team members, who help us fulfill Asticom’s mission of improving people’s lives.”

The Gold Award underscores Asticom’s innovative strategies in supporting its workforce during the pandemic’s challenging times. It mirrors the company’s dedication to fostering a healthy, diverse environment that prioritizes continuous learning and growth.

On the other hand, the Silver Award bestowed upon Castillo-Reyes celebrates her forward-thinking leadership, ensuring every Asticom employee feels valued, supported, and empowered.

These recent honors join Asticom’s expanding trophy cabinet, which boasts awards such as the Bronze for “Innovation in Digital Transformation” and Silver for “Thought Leader of the Year” from the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards 2023. Asticom’s Stevie Awards tally now stands at an impressive nine wins since 2021.

Discover more about Asticom and its diverse ventures at https://asticom.com.ph.

Globe security team continues close collaboration with local authorities

Leading digital solutions platform Globe continues its intensified nationwide campaign against cable theft in close coordination with local authorities, resulting in the recent arrest of six cable thieves in Metro Manila.

The incidents affected Globe’s enterprise customers, including those providing critical services such as banks and medical facilities.

In an incident on September 20, suspects Edwin Zulueta, Kyle Epola, Joenel Caparas, and Jennerold Ellore were apprehended on M.H. Del Pilar Street, Malate, Manila after they were caught cutting and stealing 200 pairs of Innove copper cable wires approximately 28 meters long, affecting four circuits serving banks, clinics and an electronic store.

They were booked at the Manila Police District Station 5 for further investigation and legal proceedings.

Three days later, another suspect was caught stealing 200 pairs of multi-pair cables measuring 12.5 meters along Maria Orosa Street corner UN Avenue. He was turned over to the nearest police station for processing. The theft disrupted services in six circuits serving banks and clinics in the area.

In a similar incident, Jayson Picardo from Paco, Manila, was nabbed by the Bantay Kable National Capital Region special operations team on October 20 after he was found cutting and stealing 100 pairs of Innove copper cable wire, 21 meters in length at the junction of UN Avenue and General Luna. This incident affected nine circuits servicing banks, groceries and clinics in the area. The evidence, which included a steel saw, was taken to the Criminal Investigation Section of MPD Police Station 5.

These incidents affected dozens of Globe customers, undermining the company’s efforts to ensure uninterrupted connectivity.

“At Globe, we deeply value the trust our customers place in us. Every cable represents a lifeline for someone – be it for work, learning, or staying in touch with loved ones. By joining forces with local agencies, we’re not just combating cable theft, we’re safeguarding the very connections that bind our community together,”  said Gerardo Recio, Globe Enterprise and Corporate Operations (ECOPS) Head.

Globe has logged a total of 1,181 cable theft incidents in the first half of the year, with a marked spike in June.  Last year, a total of 1,811 cases were recorded. Globe hopes to strengthen enforcement through close collaboration with local authorities and greater public vigilance.

As a preventative measure, Globe is replacing copper wires with fiber optics, offering a more reliable internet experience. Fiber optic cables, unlike copper, hold no resale value, making them less attractive to thieves.

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

Top Ph e-wallet bares plans for international, B2B expansion at the Singapore FinTech Festival 2023

SINGAPORE – The Philippines’ top finance super app GCash debuts its stronger international services at the Singapore Fintech Festival 2023.

In a panel discussion of the annual gathering, GCash president and CEO Martha Sazon unveiled a new feature in the app where users can view real-time foreign exchange rates in select countries such as Singapore, Japan, and the USA.

“Through GCash services, Filipino travelers as well as those who live and work overseas can enjoy the same benefits as those who own credit cards and bank accounts. They can use the app to pay in stores and establishments that accept Alipay+ or accept card transactions,” Sazon noted.

GCash has been growing its reach beyond Philippine shores through its partner, global payments giant Alipay+, by allowing travelers to use the e-wallet for cashless transactions in 17 countries such as Singapore, Japan, and the USA. It has enabled users overseas to sign up for GCash using international mobile numbers in six countries such as the USA, Italy, and Japan.

Through its partnership with Visa, GCash users can make cashless transactions with over 80 million merchants across 200 countries. Customers can order the new GCash Card via the app. Aside from that, they can pay with GCash in establishments that accept Alipay+ by either scanning their QR codes or generating a code.

GCash is a leader in e-wallet and digital financial services for Filipino consumers. On top of its international expansion, the fintech company has begun beefing up its services for enterprise customers.

“I think to really transform the nation we start playing in the B2B space. We can’t just be one of the players, we need to really address the pain points and the friction that’s in the B2B space to make it a more meaningful play for us,” Sazon explained.

Aside from providing digital financial tools for enterprise clients, GCash also offers partner marketing solutions to businesses, both big and small, leveraging the app’s massive reach. Meanwhile, it is giving more focus on how it can help in the digital transformation of nano, micro, small, and medium enterprises (NMSME) with a suite of innovative business solutions.

Sazon was featured in a panel discussion about “Building Unicorns: An ASEAN Success Story” at the Insights stage of SFF 2023. She was joined by Ernest Cu, the chairman of GCash holding company Mynt, and the President and CEO of one of the Philippines’ biggest telecom companies, Globe Group. The panel was moderated by Ryan Huang, Assistant Finance Editor and Senior Producer and Presenter at Singapore’s MONEY FM 89.3.

GCash is the Philippines’ only double unicorn or duacorn with a valuation of over $2 billion. It has evolved beyond its core money transfer business – offering other financial services such as fair lending, investment, insurance, cryptocurrencies, and other lifestyle services.

The Singapore FinTech Festival is one of the biggest gatherings for the industry, gathering industry players and leaders from all over the world. Last year, it drew in 62,000 participants from 134 countries. It’s organized by Elevandi, a non-profit organization set up by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).

Globe Business recently hosted Forefront 2023, a National Conference on Digital Learning designed to ignite minds and inspire a great future. Honoring the invaluable contribution of educators, the event aimed to empower teachers with resources and new knowledge to help them better perform their critical role in shaping the country’s future.

Recognizing the pivotal role of teachers, Globe Business collaborated with the National Teachers’ Month Coordinating Council (NTMCC), the National Educators’ Academy of the Philippines (NEAP), and the National Teachers College (NTC) to bring together attendees from across the country. With its theme “Together4Teachers,” this year’s celebration focused on four pillars – Appreciation, Admiration, Approval, and Attention.

Forefront 2023 was designed to delve into innovative online learning approaches while providing educators nationwide with a well-deserved respite from their hectic daily routine.

“At Globe Business, we have always been at the forefront of advocating for digital literacy and inclusion to uplift education. We firmly believe that technology has the power to transform the way we learn and teach. That is why we have been staunchly providing support to our hard-working teachers.  Teachers’ dedication, passion, and love for teaching have laid the foundation for countless success stories in our nation,” said KD Dizon, Head of Globe Business.

The hybrid conference featured esteemed speakers such as Dir. Jennifer Lopez of the National Educators’ Academy of the Philippines emphasized the importance of gratitude and appreciation in education.

“Gratitude is not merely a sentiment but a powerful force that fuels motivation, inspires growth, and strengthens the bonds of our educational community,” she said.

Dr. Edward Quinto, Associate Professor and Director at Mapua University, talked about the resilience and adaptability of teachers in the face of rapid digital change. 

“Teachers may be powerless in policy but can be powerful in practice. We should not let the gap between power and powerless widen. To bridge the gap between policy and practice, we must engage in meaningful conversations and create spaces for honest, healthy, and supportive discourses,” he said.

National Teachers College VP for Academic Affairs Edizon Fermin, recognized Filipino teachers’ dedication and innovation in nurturing the future generation.  He praised their “Husay at tatag in ensuring continuity of learner access and experience, husay at tiyaga in exploring a variety of alternative delivery modalities, and usay at tapang in overcoming barriers to safe and secure management.”

Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila University Institute for the Science and Art of Learning and Teaching (SALT) Director Galvin Ngo focused on the evolving needs of teachers in the digital age, emphasizing collaboration, professional development, and mentorship.  He noted, “In professional development, faculty collaboration is important and crucial as we navigate questions with unclear answers.”

Forefront 2023 showcased Globe Business’s unwavering dedication to elevating the realm of education through innovative solutions, collaborative efforts, and collective visions. Beyond honoring educators, the event equipped them with essential resources and insights, empowering them to thrive in the dynamic landscape of digital education.

To learn more about Globe Business, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/education.html.

Globe recently renewed its partnership with leading esports team Blacklist International. 

Globe has renewed its partnership with esteemed esports team Blacklist International for a second year, promising to bring even more exclusive experiences and rewards to the passionate gaming community.

The contract renewal, signed at the recent Electronic Sports and Gaming Summit (ESGS) 2023, is a testament to the shared values and continued synergy between the two entities.

“We in Globe are thrilled to once again be partners with great esports teams such as Blacklist International. Blacklist International being consistently reliable and synonymous with winning. It is really a perfect match,” said Mike Magpily, Vice President, Customer Segment and Strategy at Globe.

Blacklist International is a renowned Filipino esports team that has won world championships, a consistent finalist in the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League, and represented the Philippines in the Southeast Asian Games. The team has attained such acclaim for its members’ gaming prowess and constant drive for excellence, which aligns with Globe’s consistent pursuit of best-in-class service for its customers.

Edward “Edward” Dapadap is known to be a brilliant game strategist, while Salic “Hadji” Alauya Imam, who just returned from a break is hungry to score wins again.

He added: “We would also like to extend our support and well wishes to the Blacklist team as they head out for the M5 World Championship of Mobile Legends this coming end of month and early December.”

“The partnership is not just about supporting the top-tier team but also about enriching the gaming experience for the fans, known as ‘Agents.’” Anne Calma, Director of Subcultures Marketing at Globe, emphasized the focus on customer rewards.

“Aside from supporting the team, our customers can expect exclusive collaborations with the Blacklist Team, including merch and other items,” Calma said. “At Globe, we wish to rally Agents and the gaming community to show support for Blacklist. We share with Blacklist their journey and what they represent for the gaming community.”

Globe invites all gaming enthusiasts to join in the excitement and rally behind Blacklist as they aim to become the first two-time MS world champions.

Icoy Rapadas, Blacklist International’s Commercial Partnership Director, expressed gratitude towards Globe’s unwavering support. 

“We’re grateful for Globe’s belief and trust in Blacklist International, from the players to the coaches and the rest of the staff. More importantly, we thank Globe’s dedication to uplift and support esports as a whole. We’re very excited to share what this partnership has to offer to the agents as we continue to break the code with Globe,” he said.

Globe’s commitment to the gaming community is unyielding, and this partnership renewal is a bold step towards empowering gamers with reliable network services and exciting collaborations.

Stay tuned as Globe and Blacklist International unveil more initiatives designed to reward the community and celebrate shared victories. For more information visit the GlobeOne app and www.globegamergrounds.com.

Two of the most iconic dining destinations in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) are joining Gourmet Giving Series for the Hapag Movement, an exquisite dining experience that combines gastronomic excellence and charitable giving.

Alegria Manila and Gallery by Chele are participating in the heartwarming initiative of Globe and Fining Dining Club Philippines Facebook community this November.  A portion of the proceeds will be used to support the fight against involuntary hunger in the country.

Alegria, known for its inventive fusion of Filipino and Latin American cuisine, is set to offer a 10-course tasting menu featuring 13 dishes for PHP5,500++ per person from November 21 to 26, 2023. It will be the longest-running event of Gourmet Giving Series. 

Showcasing Alegria’s commitment to culinary innovation and cultural exploration, the menu is an invitation to interact with food in new ways, highlighted by the use of a custom-made balisong to slice tender smoked Iberico pork, signifying a blend of tradition and modernity. The restaurant’s ambience, with its contemporary art and an impressive grill, complements the interactive dining experience, creating an atmosphere that is “maximalist and unapologetically Alegria.”

On November 23, Gallery by Chele will present an 8-course tasting menu for lunch and dinner featuring Chef Chele Gonzalez’s most cherished dishes, celebrating his decade-long culinary journey in the Philippines. Priced at PHP5,500+ per person, the menu incorporates gotu kola, an herb known for its health benefits, underscoring the restaurant’s philosophy of wellness through cuisine. The chef will be around to entertain guests at lunch time.

Chef Chele’s Spanish roots and his experiences in some of the world’s best kitchens are evident in the dishes that earned the restaurant its place in the prestigious Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants’ inaugural 51-100 List.

In partnership with Fine Dining Club Philippines, Globe acts as the connector, crafting meaningful experiences for its customers while contributing to the Hapag Movement’s goal of changing the lives of 500,000 Filipinos facing involuntary hunger. The series is a testament to the power of technology and partnerships in creating a #GlobeOfGood.

“Through the Gourmet Giving Series, we are offering our customers an opportunity to indulge in world-class culinary creations while making a significant impact on the community. It’s a celebration of Filipino resilience and the spirit of Bayanihan, proving that the simple act of dining can be transformed into a powerful gesture of giving,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer of the Globe Group.

“We are thrilled to work with an active and influential online community like Fine Dining Club to bring more joy to the holidays for those who partake of the fine dining experience and the beneficiaries who will be helped by this campaign,” said RG Orense, Globe Digital and Social Strategy Head. “Together, we are bridging the virtual and real world to mobilize and make a tangible impact in communities that need it most.”

Fine Dining Club Philippines plays a pivotal role, leveraging its network of over 23,300+ members to amplify the series’ impact. Founded by entrepreneur JC Cailles-Lo, the community brings together discerning diners and renowned chefs to foster exclusive events and partnerships that celebrate the art of fine dining.

The Hapag Movement and the Gourmet Giving Series highlight the synergy between culinary arts and social responsibility, setting a new standard for how dining experiences can contribute to the greater good.

To learn more, visit glbe.co/globegourmetgiving.

Globe continues to enhance the country’s digital infrastructure with the construction of 833 new cell sites and the upgrade of 5,395 mobile sites to LTE in the first nine months of the year. This advancement aims to ensure reliable connectivity and wide coverage across the country.

The company’s vigorous efforts in network builds have been pivotal in delivering an elevated customer experience, providing countless Filipinos with access to high-speed internet. 

Such dedication to improving its services has been recognized with the prestigious accolade of “Most Consistent Fixed Broadband Provider” in 33 towns and cities, along with two provinces for the third quarter of 2023, according to Ookla® Speedtest Intelligence® data. This honor comes after Globe’s commendable performance in the previous quarter, where it led in 31 locations.

In addition, Globe has reported notable enhancements in both download and upload speeds in 19 strategic locations in the third quarter of the year. 

“As we strengthen our infrastructure with new cell sites and LTE upgrades, we’re helping accelerate digitalization. Our relentless builds are a clear indication of our dedication to service excellence.  At Globe, we believe in harnessing technology to create opportunities and drive inclusive growth, empowering communities across the Philippines to reach their full potential,” said Beck Eclipse, Globe’s Chief Customer Experience Officer.

Globe is currently maximizing the use of its existing fiber inventory, which aligns with this year’s reduced capital expenditure (CAPEX). This is in line with Globe’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG No. 9, which fosters innovation and infrastructure as drivers of inclusive economic growth. 

The digital solutions platform has spent ₱54 billion in CAPEX as of September 2023, of which 91% was allocated to meet data needs, ensuring that customers have continuous access to premier digital solutions and connectivity.

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/

Leading digital solutions platform Globe is partnering with Yield Guild Games (YGG) to power up the country’s first Web3 Games Summit. This event, a continuation of Globe’s G Creator Series, celebrates the innovative and pioneering work of game developers worldwide, emphasizing the youth’s creative use of blockchain technology.

Happening from November 18 to 25, 2023, the thrill-packed summit is poised to be an electrifying hub for over 5,000 gamers, developers, and tech enthusiasts looking for new ways to earn and stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with thought leaders, create and experience new games, and participate in a host of activities designed to highlight the burgeoning field of Web3 gaming. Over 40 web3 games will be on display, including Ragnarok Landverse, PROJECT XENO, Parallel, Anito Legends, Nine Chronicles, Mighty Action Heroes, Pixelmon, MetaCene, Sunflower Land, Riftstorm, and more.

“Globe’s partnership with YGG underscores our unwavering commitment to creative innovation and the Filipino game development industry,” said Pia Gonzales-Colby, Chief Marketing Officer at Globe. “This key event is part of our G Creator Series, which empowers the creator in every customer, regardless of the medium. We’re proud to connect with partners such as MetaverseGo and YGG, championing both local and international creators to showcase their newest games.”

As the Official Connectivity Partner, Globe will power connectivity for Web3 Game Jam, YGG Web3 Games Summit Conference, and YGG Web3 Games Summit Expo and Tournament ensuring a seamless and engaging experience for all participants.”

But Globe’s role goes beyond just powering the event.  In a gesture of support for the game development community, Globe will be presenting a special prize at the Game Development Hackathon, the Web3 Game Jam. The winner will receive PHP100,000- a prize that will support the winning game prototype.

The company is also hosting a series of activities that merge philanthropy with fun, including a chance to win coveted All-Access passes by redeeming just a single Globe Rewards point via the GlobeOne app. All proceeds from the raffle will support the Hapag Movement, a Globe-led initiative dedicated to fighting involuntary hunger. Submission of raffle entries will be open from November 10 to 15, with the lucky winner to be named on November 17.

“Globe is an innovation leader in the Philippines, and we at YGG strongly align with their vision to advance technologies – such as web3 – that have the potential to positively impact the lives of many millions of Filipinos,” said Mench Dizon, Country Manager, YGG Pilipinas. “Through our long term partnership, together we will fuel creativity, development, and new industries, while supporting and growing each other’s communities.”

Globe’s collaboration with MetaverseGo also adds an extra layer of excitement. Together, they are set to promote an on-ground booth, where activities will be energized by Globe Rewards. Participants can contribute to the Hapag Movement by donating 1 point through Globe Rewards.

The Summit will kick off with the Web3 Game Jam on November 18 and 19. This will set the stage for a dynamic two-day conference on November 21 and 22, where visionaries and industry pioneers will converge to chart the course of Web3 gaming’s future.

The grand finale will be an expansive Expo & Tournament from November 23 to 25, offering fierce eSports tournaments, immersive exhibitions, and a showcase of the latest gaming innovations crafted by Filipino talent.

The collaboration between Globe and YGG underscores their dedication to nurturing the creative economy and supporting the next generation of game developers.

Learn more about the Web3 Games Summit by visiting https://ygg.events/.

Leading telemedicine provider KonsultaMD introduces its game-changing Health Plans feature in the Super App for hassle-free medical management, affirming its pledge to make healthcare more accessible to Filipinos.

The new feature elevates KonsultaMD’s end-to-end telehealth services by allowing users to link and manage multiple health plans within the app effortlessly, even adding dependents covered by their plans. It also removes the need to file a Letter of Authority (LOA) or Letter of Guarantee (LOG), making doctor consultations more seamless and convenient.

Amplifying its efforts, KonsultaMD has forged strategic partnerships with key players in the insurance sector starting with Etiqa Philippines, one of the leading providers of Group Health for multi-national and local corporations.

“Through this partnership, our customers and their dependents will be able to access Etiqa services faster and more conveniently as it removes layers of approval. With KonsultaMD, Etiqa will be able to further improve our service delivery and make healthcare more accessible,” said Dr. Malu Castillo-Mamaril, Vice President and Medical Director of the Medical Operations Division of Etiqa.

KonsultaMD has also partnered with Lacson & Lacson Insurance Brokers, Inc. (LLIBI), a premier independent insurance broker specializing in employee benefits. LLIBI policyholders can avail of free online doctor consultations through the KonsultaMD Superapp.

“What we are building has never been done before. We want KonsultaMD to be part of every Filipino’s healthcare journey, even through traditional channels. There’s a synergy to be found here, as we both share the vision of making healthcare easy and accessible. We are very happy to have Etiqa and Lacson & Lacson as part of our cause,” said Cholo Tagaysay, CEO of KonsultaMD, during the recent contract signing with LLBI.

Nicolas Lacson, COO of LLIBI, remarked on the transformative nature of these alliances: “Healthcare digitalization has changed the way our members use their benefits. No matter where you may be, digitalization breaks the barriers of expensive and inaccessible healthcare, making health services easily available and affordable to Filipinos nationwide.”

“We view this partnership as a way to broaden and expand the access of our members and clients to their healthcare plans. Powered by KonsultaMD, members can reach out to medical professionals in a convenient and cost-efficient manner,” he added.

KonsultaMD offers 24/7 access to doctors as well as medical certificates, same-day pharmacy delivery, at-home diagnostics, and nursing care for newborns and the elderly. Positioning itself as a pivotal player in the healthcare industry, KonsultaMD’s mission further goes beyond physical health, as it leads the charge to destigmatize mental health consultations among Filipinos.

The holistic approach to health and wellness is central to KonsultaMD’s ethos, and the new Health Plans feature is a significant stride towards making healthcare more comprehensive and accessible. KonsultaMD also expects more partnerships with top health insurance and health maintenance organizations in the coming months.

For more information about KonsultaMD, visit https://konsulta.md or download the app on the App Store or Google Play.

Shares how it emerged as the country’s only double unicorn

The Philippines’ leading financial super app, GCash, brings its financial inclusion and FinTech success story to the global stage at the Singapore FinTech Festival (SFF) 2023 – sharing how it emerged as the country’s only double unicorn while making a positive impact on Filipinos’ daily lives.

GCash president and CEO Martha Sazon joins a panel discussion talking about, “Building Unicorns: An ASEAN Success Story” at the Insights stage of SFF 2023. She’s joined by Ernest Cu, the President and CEO of one of the Philippines’ biggest telecom companies, Globe Group. The panel is moderated by Ryan Huang, Assistant Finance Editor and Senior Producer and Presenter at Singapore’s MONEY FM 89.3.

“In line with our vision of achieving ‘Finance for All’, GCash has made big strides in transforming the Philippines’ digital economy to make sure no one is left behind. We are excited to engage like-minded organizations at the SFF 2023 as we continue to build partnerships and boost our capabilities in spearheading efforts to build an inclusive and safe digital ecosystem,” said Sazon.

“At GCash, we continue to look for ways on how we can enhance our services and continue pushing for innovations to serve Filipinos wherever they are,” she added.

GCash is the Philippines’ only double unicorn or duacorn with a valuation of over $2 billion. It has evolved beyond its core money transfer business – offering other financial services to the country’s millions of unserved and underserved individuals. These include fair lending, investment, insurance, cryptocurrencies, and other lifestyle services.

It’s also been expanding further by offering partner marketing solutions and ramping up its services for enterprise clients. GCash has also been broadening its reach through global payments partner, Alipay+, by allowing travelers to use the e-wallet for cashless transactions in 17 countries such as Singapore, Japan, and the USA. Likewise, it’s enabled users overseas to sign up for GCash using international mobile numbers in six countries like the USA, Italy, and Japan.

The Singapore FinTech Festival is organized by Elevandi, a non-profit organization set up by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), and Constellar, and in collaboration with MAS and the Associati. In its ninth year, the gathering focuses on “The Applications of AI in Financial Services” as it tackles how technologies such as AI and Web3 can help accelerate the transition to a low-carbon future; address the needs of the underserved; and secure the digital economy against risks.

In a significant showcase of innovation and growth, the Globe Group will raise the flag at the 2023 Singapore Fintech Festival (SFF) this week and share its experience in raising unicorns as part of its transformative journey from a traditional telecom company to a dynamic technology company.

Organized by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and Elevandi, the SFF, happening at the Singapore Expo from November 15 to 17, 2023, is a global fintech event that attracts thousands of participants from around the world. Last year, it gathered 62,000 participants from 134 countries last year. The festival focuses on the intersection of financial services, public policy, and cutting-edge technology.

A highlight of the event will be a panel discussion on “Building Unicorns: An ASEAN Success Story” featuring Globe Group President and CEO Ernest Cu and Mynt President and CEO Martha Sazon.

“Our transformation from telco to techco reflects our commitment to innovation and solving real-world challenges. At SFF, we’re excited to demonstrate how this pivot is not just about business growth but making a tangible difference in the daily lives of Filipinos,” said Cu.

Globe’s evolution is supported by impressive financial growth, with the company recording a 44% year-on-year increase in non-telco revenues, reaching PHP4.1 billion in the first three quarters of 2023.

A key aspect of Globe’s success story is GCash, operated by Mynt, which has emerged as the Philippines’ only double unicorn. The platform’s net earnings soared to PHP1.62 billion in the first nine months of 2023, a 149% increase from the previous year.

Martha Sazon, President and CEO of Mynt, said: “GCash is a testament to our customer-first approach and technological innovation. At SFF, we look forward to sharing our experiences and insights on creating inclusive financial solutions for millions of Filipinos.”

Meanwhile, KonsultaMD, one of 917Ventures portfolio companies, is also showing the potential of becoming the country’s next unicorn. KonsultaMD this year expanded into a superapp, providing comprehensive healthcare services to over 2 million Filipinos.

Globe is also optimistic about its collaboration with Gogoro of Taiwan in introducing two-wheel Smartscooters® using battery-swapping technology. Gogoro Philippines recently opened the Gogoro Experience Center in Makati City, a key financial hub in the Philippines, the first outside Taiwan.

Globe is likewise laying its stake on the growing data center business through its partnership with ST Telemedia Global Data Centres. This year, STT GDC Philippines announced two major construction projects seen to boost the country’s data storage capacity, and expanded the capacity of its existing facilities by 5.2MW.

Globe’s shift from telco to techco is exemplified by its diversified portfolio, extending into fintech, virtual healthcare, e-commerce, business outsourcing, adtech, edutech, climate tech, media, and entertainment.

As the Globe Group continues to redefine its role in the digital era, its presence at the SFF will not only showcase its achievements but also affirm its position as a key player in the ASEAN region’s tech landscape.

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

Leading digital solutions platform Globe has noted a sharp rise in cases of battery theft in its network facilities, with 834 lost to thieves in the first half of the year, around 2.4 times higher than the 352 cases recorded for the entire 2022.

Breaking down the figures regionally, Mindanao booked the highest number of incidents with 424, followed by Visayas with 363 and the Greater Manila Area with 47.

The batteries are crucial as backup power during area-specific commercial power outages, particularly in times of disaster. Without them, affected localities become vulnerable to telco service interruptions.

Over the past two months alone, Globe reported two incidents of battery theft in Metro Manila that occurred in broad daylight: one in Malabon on September 23 and another in Tondo on October 20.

“Battery theft, especially those brazenly carried out during the day, are a stark reminder of the challenges we face. While we’re dedicated to ensuring 24/7 reliability, the increasing incidents of battery theft undermine our ability to maintain uninterrupted service, especially during power outages,” said Mike Honig, Globe Head of Network Field Maintenance for GMA.

While Globe is working with local authorities, it is urging Local Government Units (LGUs) to conduct random inspections in their areas since communities will also benefit from securing the equipment of telecom providers.

Likewise, Globe warned the public that buying stolen property is subject to legal action. Those caught colluding in the purchase and sale of such property will also face legal consequences.

To report incidents of battery theft, please contact Globe Security Command 09176888545 or report to the Philippine National Police via 24/7 helpline 16677 or the nearest police station. 

Globe has renewed its call on customers to be vigilant against unwanted messages they receive from unknown numbers via over-the-top (OTT) media services or chat apps.

This, amid reports of rising cases in the wake of stricter SMS regulation through the SIM Registration Act. Fraudsters have apparently turned to using OTT services to evade telco network’s spam filters, with many using foreign numbers, said Anton Reynaldo Bonifacio, Globe’s Chief Information Security Officer.

“OTT messages are not SIM-based and do not pass through telco networks. Therefore, we have no control over them. But what Globe can do is once we confirm that an OTT account associated with a Globe number has been used for fraud, we deactivate this SIM. It is important to note that many OTT accounts targeting Philippine mobile users use foreign SIMs, which are outside the scope of Philippine telcos,” Bonifacio said.

“This is why it is important for customers that use OTT services to be more vigilant. Never engage with chat messages from numbers they do not know, including those making various offers. Please block these numbers and report them to the chat app you’re using,” he said.

Globe has been at the forefront of industry efforts to combat spam and scam messages, working with government agencies and various private sector partners to constantly step up efforts against fraud within areas under its control.

As part of its vigorous proactive spam blocking, Globe was the first telco to block all person-to-person (P2P) SMS with clickable links within its network in September 2022, a measure enforced industry-wide last month by the National Telecommunications Commission.

By the end of September this year, Globe had blocked a total of 2.59 billion spam and scam messages, deactivated 4,733 SIMs, and blacklisted 150,287 linked to SMS fraud. Globe deactivates SIMS from its own network linked to fraud and blacklists numbers from other networks to stop them from sending SMS to Globe SIMs.

Globe also runs a 24/7 Security Operations Center to filter out unwanted messages from international and local numbers. It has invested a total $20 million to enhance its spam and scam SMS detection and blocking mechanisms.

Customers are encouraged to activate spam filters in their devices and also report unwanted SMS via Globe’s #StopSpam portal.

To learn more about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

Globe has recorded its highest Mobile revenue market share (RMS) since Q3 2019, consistently holding revenue leadership with 54.9% by the end of Q3 2023. This sustains its Mobile RMS supremacy since the fourth quarter of 2016, with the margin steadily growing this year.

Its RMS at the close of September represents a 0.3% rise from Q2 2023, increasing on the back of higher data use and ARPU, as Globe’s subscriber base showed more consistent activity following SIM Registration.

“Globe continues to lead where it matters. This year, our revenue market share has been consistently growing quarter on quarter, and Mobile continues to gain with higher quality acquisitions and more active loaders using our services for longer periods,” said Darius Delgado, Head of Globe’s Consumer Mobile Business.

Globe’s current subscriber count is 54.7 million, representing an addition of 1 million newly acquired users from its total 53.7 million by end July 2023, the deadline for registration of existing SIMs. It had deactivated 30 million inactive SIMs following the SIM registration process.

“We have always looked at RMS as the most important metric of Mobile leadership. As we near the close of 2023, we are proud to have sustained our edge in the last seven years,” said Ernest Cu, Globe Group President and CEO.

Globe’s mobile service revenues from July to September 2023 was at PHP28.4 billion, a 7% increase from the same period in 2022 at PHP26.5 billion. Meanwhile, year-to-date mobile revenue growth (January to September 2023) was at a record-high PHP83.2 billion, a notable 3% increase from PHP80.6 billion in the same period last year.

Globe attributes this to consistently rising demand for mobile data usage, with its diverse and affordable offerings keeping the prepaid market vigorous. 

From a product standpoint, mobile data peaked this year at PHP67.0 billion by the end of September, a hike of 7% from PHP62.5 billion in the same period last year. This was driven by the surge in mobile data traffic to 4,360 petabytes, soaring from 3,365 petabytes in Q3 2022. 

Post the SIM registration, ARPU also improved for Globe’s Prepaid and TM brands. For Globe Prepaid, it registered a 25% increase by Q3 2023 compared to the same period last year, and the same level of increase compared to the last quarter. TM, meanwhile, logged a 35% increase in ARPU year-on-year by end September 2023, and a 28% improvement compared to Q2 of this year.

“We are encouraged by these consistently improving numbers to drive harder and provide best-in-class value-for-money services for our customers,” Delgado said.

To learn more about Globe’s Mobile offerings, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

Leading digital solutions platform Globe and top universal bank Security Bank have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that aims to further boost cybersecurity initiatives to address the rising volume and complexity of financial crimes in the country.

The agreement aims to enhance the joint capability of Globe and Security Bank to fight financial crime and identity theft and to work together in fraud investigations, in compliance with existing laws, rules, and regulations by both the National Privacy Commission (NPC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

This two-year agreement will enable Globe, one of the country’s largest telecommunications companies, and Security Bank, one of the country’s best capitalized private domestic universal banks, to share data for fraud prevention and investigation.

“Partnering with banks and financial institutions has greatly enhanced our fraud prevention, detection, and investigation efforts, leading to better customer protection. In the first half of the year, we have seen a dramatic 46% year-on-year decline in the volume of bank-related scam and spam messages blocked in our network, indicating that our efforts are making headway,” said Atty. Irish Salandanan-Almeida, Globe Chief Privacy Officer.

“We are proud and excited to have Security Bank as our latest partner in our continuing fight against online fraud. As our network of partners grows bigger, we are able to stop more fraud attempts and expand our protection to more customers,” she added.

“An integral part of the BetterBanking promise we make to our customers is the safety and security of their personal and financial information when transacting. This holds especially true now given current fraud trends and increased adoption of digital payment channels,” said Albert dela Cruz, Chief Information Security Officer at Security Bank.

“Our partnership with Globe will help us secure the data of our clients and ensure they enjoy seamless, safe, and smooth digital payment experiences. This is one of our main initiatives towards driving the bank to be the most customer-centric bank in the Philippines,” dela Cruz added.

The disclosure of personal information for purposes of fraud investigation is allowed under Section 12 (f) of the Data Privacy Act, per NPC Advisory Opinion No. 2021-026. Further, BSP Memorandum No. M-2021-059 advised BSP Supervised Financial Institutions to cooperate and share relevant information.

Globe has been partnering with all major commercial banks and online retailers to provide a direct and round-the-clock communication channel to report any malicious or fraudulent activities for immediate investigation or blocking.

In August last year, Globe inked an agreement with the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) to establish a framework of cooperation for the sharing of data and intelligence for fraud prevention and investigation. The agreement with the organization, which has 45 major banks as members, aims to address the rising volume and complexity of financial crimes, identity theft, phishing, spam messages and other forms of fraud severely affecting Filipino consumers.

Last March, Globe also signed separate agreements with the Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) and consumer finance firm Home Credit as part of its commitment to fight spam and scams.

In 2014, Globe embarked on a mission to enhance its cybersecurity, fortifying its defenses against potential threats to its infrastructure and ensuring the safety of its customers.

The company has invested approximately $20 million in bolstering its SMS detection and blocking mechanisms against spam and scam SMS. This effort is supported by a dedicated 24/7 security operations center, ensuring swift detection and response to any breaches or attacks. It has also launched various initiatives to address growing threats brought about by spam and scam SMS, including the #StopSPAM portal, where customers may report these unwanted messages.

Since the heightened collaboration with banks and online retailers, latest data shows the number of bank-related scam and spam messages in the first half of the year dropped by 46.5 percent to 4.85 million from 9.06 million in the same period last year.

In the second quarter alone, the figure went down to 779,254 from the 5.1 million reported in the same quarter last year.

Unscrupulous persons and organizations often utilize scam and spam messages to extract personal information from mobile users. Once in possession of this data, cybercriminals can hijack online accounts and drain funds from the victims’ bank or e-wallet accounts.

Globe is strongly supporting the efforts of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to convert 50 percent of total retail transactions in the country to electronic channels and increase the number of banked Filipino adults to 70 percent under its Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap.

Meanwhile, Security Bank proactively works with organizations such as the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) and the Bank Association of the Philippines (BMAP) to spread awareness on fraud, cybersecurity, and online safety to its customers and the general banking public.

To learn more about Security Bank, visit www.securitybank.com. To know more about Globe, check out www.globe.com.ph, respectively.