Prominent Filipino artist and entrepreneur Enrique Gil has formally joined KonsultaMD, a premier health SuperApp under the Globe Group umbrella, as its Chief Communications and Impact Officer (CCIO).
The appointment was marked by a contract signing, with key attendees including Ernest Cu, President and CEO of the Globe Group, and Cholo Tagaysay, President and CEO of KonsultaMD.
Known for his acting prowess and business ventures, Enrique has always been passionate about ensuring that healthcare reaches every Filipino. He actively sought out a partnership with KonsultaMD to bring this vision to fruition.
“Thank you so much to KonsultaMD for trusting me in this partnership. I really strongly believe that healthcare should be accessible to every Filipino no matter where they are,” he said.
Enrique’s role at KonsultaMD goes beyond endorsement, serving as a voice for a significant cause. He aims to bridge the gap between Filipinos and quality healthcare, ensuring that medical services are available to everyone.
This partnership, created with enthusiasm by Ranvel Rufino, Strategic Partner, and Pamela Lee, Head of Marketing and Partnerships of KonsultaMD, perfectly aligns with the company’s goal.
“The mission of KonsultaMD is to democratize healthcare.” said Cholo Tagaysay, CEO of KonsultaMD. “Enrique is going to be a massive help to that mission. We’re very excited to collaborate with him and his team to create awareness for KonsultaMD.”
With Enrique on board, KonsultaMD hopes to connect with a wider audience who may not be aware of the availability of accessible and affordable healthcare services. His genuine connection with Filipinos nationwide is expected to encourage more people to prioritize their health and well-being.
The Globe Group, beyond its telco services, has been diversifying its offerings. Through 917Ventures, it has introduced innovative services and tech solutions such as KonsultaMD, which has been revolutionizing healthcare services in the country.
“Globe has been transforming itself into an entity to not only provide better communications, but also impact solutions to the Filipino public— solutions that address the largest issues in the Philippines,” Cu said.
“During the pandemic, KonsultaMD started to make an impact. Even with the pandemic winding down and the economy opening up, the momentum of KonsultaMD continues,” he added.
KonsultaMD stands as the Philippines’ largest telehealth provider. It offers comprehensive telehealth services, from 24/7 doctor access, medical certificates, and same-day pharmacy deliveries to at-home diagnostics and nursing care for newborns and the elderly. KonsultaMD is also a strong advocate for mental health, leading initiatives to destigmatize mental health consultations among Filipinos.
For more information about KonsultaMD, visit https://konsulta.md or download the app on the App Store or Google Play.
[L-R] Pamela Lee, Head of Marketing and Partnerships of KonsultaMD; Cholo Tagaysay, KonsultaMD CEO; Ernest Cu, Globe Group President and CEO; actor Enrique Gil, KonsultaMD Chief Communications and Impact Officer (CCIO); and Ranvel Rufino, Strategic Partner.
Globe At Home elevates the digital experience of its customers with the launch of the ALL-NEW GFiber Plan this October. Moving beyond mere connectivity, this initiative embodies Globe’s transformation from a traditional telco to a dynamic techco, aiming to enrich every facet of its customers’ lives.
Existing Globe At Home subscribers get exclusive first dibs on the new GFiber Plan. Those who will upgrade their broadband plans from September 25 to October 8, 2023 will also be treated to Grab vouchers worth up to PHP500.
The new plan suite offers a well-curated family bundle that caters to the lifestyle and digital needs of each member of the family: entertainment for family bonding with Disney+, Prime Video, and HBO Go, a PHP1,000 Razer Gold gaming credits for the kids, and health access via KonsultaMD for the family.
Powered by the WiFi6 modem, the new GFiber Plan offers an unparalleled online experience, boasting faster speeds, the capacity to handle multiple devices, and enhanced security. The Globe Home Squad, a team of tech experts, will also provide a complimentary visit, guiding subscribers in realizing their dream intelligent home, from comprehensive connectivity to bespoke networks.
“Globe At Home strives to continuously evolve itself and bring our customers to a greater life together, at home. With the launch of these new plans, we hope for them to see that Globe is not just an internet provider but a lifestyle partner. We curated products with our customers in mind. We are there with our subscribers to help them live their lives, free to go after what they want. We also wanted to show our appreciation to those who have been with us by giving them a chance to avail of our plans earlier,” said Raymond Policarpio, VP of Globe At Home.
Among the GFiber Plans powered by WiFi6 technology that existing customers can choose from are:
GFiber Plan 1799 with up to 200Mbps and Family bundle worth P7,000
Disney+ annual premium plan
24/7 doctor consultations for the family via Konsulta MD
PHP1,000 Razor Gold gaming credits
GFiber Plan 2699 with up to 600Mbps and Family bundle worth P13,000
Annual Premium access to Disney+, Prime Video and HBO Go
24/7 doctor consultations for the family via Konsulta MD
PHP1,000 Razor Gold gaming credits
Complimentary visit from the Globe Home Squad
GFiber Plan 5999 with up to 1Gbps and Family bundle worth P19,000
Annual Premium access to Disney+, Prime Video and HBO Go
24/7 doctor consultations for the family via Konsulta MD
PHP1,000 Razor Gold gaming credits
Complimentary visit from the Globe Home Squad
Two (2) WiFi Mesh devices
GFiber Plan 7499 with up to 1.5Gbps and Family bundle worth P39,000
Annual Premium access to Disney+, Prime Video and HBO Go
24/7 doctor consultations for the family via Konsulta MD
PHP1,000 Razor Gold gaming credits
Complimentary visit from the Globe Home Squad
Three (3) WiFi Mesh devices and Fiber To the Room(FTTR) in select areas nationwide
GFiber Plan is an invitation to a life of shared experiences, enticing rewards, and cherished moments with loved ones. With Globe At Home, customers are not just getting a service, they are gaining a partner dedicated to steering them to effortless and unencumbered lives.
To upgrade, you can check out https://glbe.co/GAHPlanUpgrade
Standing [L-R]: Atty. Enriquito Cruz, Intellectual Property, Consumer Protection, and Media Lawyer, DITO Telecommunity; Solito Napolon, Head of Core Network and Engineering, Sky Cable Corp; Yoly Crisanto, Globe Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer; and Ellen Solosod, Assistant Vice President, PLDT Group and Smart Communications. Seated [L-R]: Atty. Jon Paulo Salvahan, Deputy Commissioner, National Telecommunications Commission; Atty. Ella Blanca Lopez, Commissioner, NTC; Atty. Rowel Barba, Director General, Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines; Atty. Christine Pangilinan-Canlapan, Director III, Bureau of Legal Affairs and Supervising Director, IPR Enforcement Office; and Atty. Nathaniel Arevalo, Director IV, Bureau of Legal Affairs and Supervising Director, IPR Enforcement Office.
In a landmark move to protect intellectual property rights and combat online content piracy, Globe has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) and four other leading Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in the country to establish a site-blocking mechanism against pirate sites.
A first in Asia, the MOU is a significant step forward against content piracy pending proposed amendments to the 26-year-old Republic Act No. 8293 or the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines, which will institutionalize stronger measures.
The milestone coincides with the Philippines’ Creative Industry Month, which celebrates the industry that the agreement seeks to protect. Protecting the Creative Industry is among priorities of the Marcos administration and is part of the Philippine Development Plan.
“What we are doing today is such an important step in the absence of a site-blocking law. We are no longer tied up. We can do something about piracy,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Communications Officer, Globe Group, at the MOU signing on September 20.
“Just as we have taken our advocacy to such great lengths, we’re fully committed to stopping piracy. And hopefully, in the digital economy, the Philippines can start looking forward to a creative industry that is robust and free from all these challenges,” she added.
The MOU “is the first in Asia and second in the world,” remarked Neil Gane of the Motion Pictures Association. Germany had pioneered a similar initiative, where the site-blocking process centers around an independent entity known as the Clearinghouse for Copyright on the Internet (CUII) founded by ISPs and rights holders. Notably, Germany’s model operates without the direct involvement of any governmental agency.
As it underscored the benefits the internet has brought to Filipinos, the MOU highlights the detrimental effects of online piracy, which not only harms legitimate stakeholders but also exposes users to potential malware threats and phishing attacks.
The MOU’s primary objective is to establish a voluntary site-blocking practice against the unauthorized distribution and sale of pirated content over the internet and set an example for other stakeholders who are not yet signatories to the MOU.
It also outlines the general principles and procedures for site blocking, emphasizing collaboration between ISPs and IPOPHL, and ensuring compliance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012.
Site-blocking is among proposed amendments to the Intellectual Property Code, with measures pending in Congress. As it welcomes the MOU, Globe is hoping for a more robust, institutionalized mechanism for site-blocking under the law, as this would penalize offenders and make site-blocking a matter of course for ISPs.
Globe supports the swift approval of two bills currently under Senate review, introduced by Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Bong Revilla, following the passage of House Bill No. 7600 by Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda in the House of Representatives last May.
These legislative efforts aim to refine Republic Act No. 8293 and empower IPOPHL to initiate site-blocking measures against copyright-infringing sites.
Globe’s commitment to combating piracy is evident through its #PlayItRight campaign, which champions the protection of content creators in an era rife with pirated materials. As a member of the Video Coalition of the Philippines and the Asia Video Industry Association (AVIA), Globe has consistently advocated for robust intellectual property rights in the country to protect consumers and the creative industry, a major contributor to the economy.
The urgency of these efforts is underscored by a recent study by Media Partners Asia, which projected a potential revenue loss of $1 billion for the Philippines by 2027 if online video piracy continues unchecked. Surveys by YouGov also indicate that enforcing site-blocking could significantly benefit the Philippines’ P1.6-trillion creative industry.
The Filipino public is not blind to the challenges and consequences of piracy. A majority support government action against piracy, with many expressing willingness to pay for legitimate content if it’s not available on pirated platforms.
With this MOU, Globe, IPOPHL, and other ISPs are taking a decisive step towards a safer, more equitable online environment, ensuring that the creative industry thrives and that Filipinos can enjoy legitimate content without compromise.
To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.
Globe signed term loan facilities with Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company for a total amount of Php15 billion. The loans shall be used to finance the company’s capital expenditures (capex), debt refinancing and/or general corporate requirements.
Globe invested Php37.7 billion in capex as of the first half of 2023, or 25% lower than the similar period of 2022 and consistent with the company’s efforts to bring the cash flow back to more sustainable levels. Majority or about 90% of the capex spending was allocated to data
As of June 2023, Globe built 542 new cell sites, and upgraded 5,087 mobile sites to LTE in order to meet the rising data demands of its customers. The company also deployed around 148 thousand fiber-to-the-to maximize the utilization of its existing fiber inventory.
As a 5G pioneer in the Philippines, Globe continues to deploy 5G wireless technology nationwide, firing up 356 new 5G sites across the Philippines, increasing its 5G outdoor coverage to 97.44% of the National Capital Region and 91% of key cities in Visayas and Mindanao.
Globe Awards At a Glance:
Energy Efficiency Initiative of the Year in APAC
Net Zero Progression of the Year in APAC
Sustainability Reporting of the Year in APAC
Large Enterprise of the Year in APAC
In a remarkable display of commitment towards sustainability, the Globe Group has earned recognition in four categories at the Environmental Finance Sustainable Company Awards 2023, underscoring the company’s unwavering dedication to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles and its leadership role in driving sustainable business practices.
Environmental-Finance.com is a UK-based online news and analysis service established in 1999 to report on sustainable investment, green finance and the people and companies active in environmental markets.
Globe was recognized in four categories it entered, with recognitions earned from its efforts on climate action, sustainability reporting, and digitalization.
Energy Efficiency Initiative of the Year (APAC)
Globe’s efforts to green its network, aligned with its ISO 50001-certified energy management system, contributed to increased network efficiency and cost savings from reduced energy consumption. This includes the shifting of more sites to renewable energy, integrating green network solutions in its operations, and the adoption of energy-efficient technologies that has allowed the company to maximize operational network capabilities.
Net Zero Progression of the Year (APAC)
Globe’s commitment to building a sustainable future was further recognized with the Net Zero Progression of the Year award.
In 2021 Globe committed to set science-based targets through the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) and submitted in June 2023 its science-based targets for evaluation and validation. It has maintained a CDP ‘B’ Rating since 2021 and is also committed to supporting the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), underscoring its dedication to address climate-related risks. This honor highlights the company’s alignment with the global Race to Zero campaign, and its persistence in reducing its GHG emissions within its value chain.
Sustainability Reporting of the Year (APAC)
The third recognition, Sustainability Reporting of the Year, celebrates Globe’s long-standing commitment to transparency and accountability. The company began its sustainability reporting journey as early as 2008, a decade ahead of the implementation of Philippine Sustainability Reporting regulations which required this of publicly-listed companies in the country.
Globe adopted the Integrated Reporting framework in 2018 to depict how the company creates value using its resources. For its 2022 Integrated Report entitled “Empowering Customers with Everyday Digital Solutions,” Globe showcased the adoption of the GSMA ESG Metrics for Mobile, making it the first telco in the Philippines to pilot the metrics.
The company was also recently given an ‘AA’ Rating by the MSCI, the highest in the Philippines by far, and has maintained its membership in the FTSE4Good Index for eight consecutive years. Globe’s recognition by The Financial Times as one of the Climate Leaders in Asia Pacific for two consecutive years and its accolade as the Most Sustainably-Driven Network by Standard Insights further attest to its leadership in sustainability.
Large Enterprise of the Year (APAC): Transitioning from telco to techco
Globe was also recognized as the Large Enterprise of the Year for APAC in this year’s awards for its successful transformation into a digital solutions group.
“These recognitions are proof of Globe’s purposeful approach to sustainability. We are committed to driving positive change and we will continue to pave the way for a sustainable future for our stakeholders and the planet,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer of the Globe Group.
The Environmental Finance Sustainable Company Awards is renowned for spotlighting companies that pioneer change in their approach to sustainability. It employs a rigorous judging process involving over 40 industry experts and the Environmental Finance editorial team.
Through its strategies, Globe practices sustainability with intention and purpose, setting a benchmark for others to follow.
To learn more about Globe’s sustainability efforts, visit the Globe Sustainability Website.
Leading digital solutions platform Globe demonstrated its commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and knowledge exchange within the tech community as it hosted the 1st Globe Developers’ Conference recently.
Organized by Globe’s Information Services Group (ISG), Globe DevCon was a convergence of visionary developers, business moguls, and tech aficionados. It showcased cutting-edge technologies, shared pioneering solutions, and promoted best practices.
More than just a learning experience, the event provided an opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in a world of innovation, all while having fun and being inspired to take their development pursuits to the next level.
Globe Chief Information Officer Raul Macatangay set the tone with a powerful message about collective creation.
“Each one of us can be a builder or creator. No matter how ordinary we feel,” he passionately declared. Macatangay went on to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of the partners present, referring to them as Globe’s “co-creators” and “co-builders.”
Ricky Mohan, Globe ISG’s Senior Advisor for Cloud Enablement and Service Operations Division, echoed this sentiment during his keynote address.
“DevCon is a day for creators, by creators,” he said.
Mohan championed the principles of transparency, collaboration, and empowerment, all aimed at reducing creator friction: “If we work together, and we share, we collaborate, we could be so much better at what we’re doing. I’m not saying we’re bad, but we could be really, really better.”
Karthik Krishna, Globe Senior Advisor for Product and Digital Growth, shifted the focus to the customers, discussing the significance of “Design Thinking.”
“It is about them and for them. The closer the end-users’ needs are analyzed and answered, the more successful the adoption or purchase of a solution. You iterate until you get it right from a customer perspective,” he explained.
The event was a perfect blend of tech and product exhibitions, coupled with enlightening learning sessions. Topics ranged from Cloud and Operations to Application Development and Delivery, and Best Practices and Collaboration.
As the day drew to a close, attendees were invited to be part of the Globe Cloud Community. This initiative aims to promote continuous development and foster even greater collaboration among cloud enthusiasts within the company.
Globe DevCon was made possible through the participation of industry giants such as Dell Technologies, AWS, Amdocs, Cisco, Huawei, Hewlett Packard, QualityKiosk Technologies, MDI Novare, Netrust, MongoDB, Netpoleon, Palo Alto Networks, Yondu, Vertiv, RedHat, ServiceNow, Cloudflare, Google Cloud Platform, and Sourced.
The event took place at The Forum (B1 floor) of The Globe Tower, marking another milestone in Globe’s journey in technological leadership and innovation.
For more information about Globe and its future events, please visit www.globe.com.ph.
Globe Chief Information Officer Raul Macatangay encouraged everyone to “create together,” calling on partners at the recent Globe DevCon to be “co-creators” and “co-builders.”
In his keynote, Ricky Mohan, Senior Advisor for Cloud Enablement and Service Operations Division for Globe’s Information Systems Group, talked about turning “legacy” into a positive, instead of “old” or “outdated” in tech parlance.
The crowd in attendance at the opening ceremonies of the recent Globe DevCon held at The Forum (B1) of The Globe Tower in Taguig City.
PetPal, the innovative tech startup under 917Ventures, made its presence felt at the recent Paw Fest Pet Community Fair Event, one of the country’s most significant pet-centric gatherings. The event, which took place at Robinsons Magnolia, saw PetPal partnering with pet supplies store Kott’s to bring a unique experience to all attendees.
Paw Fest celebrated its first anniversary this year, leaving visitors in awe with its flawless execution. The enthusiasm for the event was palpable, with 62,000 attendees turning up on the first day, and an impressive 67,000 the day after.
Over the two-day activity, PetPal had the opportunity to share insights and knowledge with the community. PetPal’s Senior Venture Builder Carlo Flordeliza and Vet Consultant Dr. Franz Ubaldo talked about “Paw-some Solutions: Revolutionizing Pet Ownership with a One-Stop Shop Platform.”
“Our participation in the Paw Fest Pet Community Fair Event has been a remarkable experience. It’s heartwarming to see such a passionate community come together, and we at PetPal are proud to offer solutions that make pet ownership easier and more fulfilling,” said Flordeliza.
PetPal also secured a premier spot for its booth activation, where it offered several promotions. Attendees benefited from free in-booth vet consultations and received free online consultation vouchers. Additionally, there were exclusive discounts, including 20% off on Home Vet Visits and 20% off on PetPal Club memberships.
As an all-in-one digital pet care solutions provider, PetPal offers a range of services tailored to the needs of pet owners. These include Online Vet Consults for only PHP500, Home Vet Visits starting at PHP1,200, and a PetPal Club membership available for PHP2,499/year.
Pet owners can also chat with a vet for just PHP99 per session and avail of home grooming services, with prices starting at PHP750. One of PetPal’s standout features is the PetPal Pawrtal, a platform that allows pet owners to track their pet’s digital records seamlessly.
PetPal’s mission is to revolutionize pet care in the Philippines. By collaborating with licensed and accredited veterinarians, PetPal offers a suite of solutions that cater to the diverse needs of pet owners across the country.
PetPal’s all-in-one digital pet care platform, known for its ease of navigation and accessibility, offers a range of services from licensed and accredited veterinarians. The platform operates daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., ensuring flexibility for clients with varying schedules.
The company looks forward to more opportunities to engage with the community and provide top-notch services to pet owners everywhere.
For more information about PetPal and its services, go to www.petpal.asia. Learn more about 917Ventures and its startups by visiting https://917ventures.com/.
Globe Group’s #MakeITSafePH anti-cyberbullying campaign has garnered two prestigious awards at the Public Relations Communications Association (PRCA) Platinum 2023 Awards Ceremony in London, besting top-tier entries from Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
The campaign, which aims to provide both education and support on cyberbullying, won “Best in Digital and Social Media,” and the “Purpose Award.” The PRCA Platinum Awards are renowned for celebrating the pinnacle of global public relations, as only agencies, teams, and individuals who have either won or been shortlisted in award events over the past year can enter.
This recognition solidifies the Globe Group’s reputation as an international frontrunner in championing Tech for Good, particularly in its collaborative stand with leading health platform KonsultaMD and other partners to address the pressing issue of cyberbullying and its mental health implications.
“This recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to create a safer digital environment. With the #MakeITSafePH campaign, we aim to bridge the gap between the digital world and real-world interventions. We believe that by empowering parents and guardians, we can foster a generation of mindful netizens and create a lasting positive impact,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Communications Officer of the Globe Group.
The campaign uniquely brings the stark reality of online harassment to the forefront for parents and guardians to understand how it affects their children. This approach is particularly relevant in the Philippines, which holds the second-highest global ranking for children’s exposure to online risks.
Campaign activities include the creation of the MakeITSafe.ph website, which offers resources such as a comprehensive Cyberbullying Glossary showcased via digital and physical flashcards. These flashcards were designed to educate parents about the evolving language of cyberbullying and are backed by real stories.
There are also free mental health consultations via KonsultaMD for affected families as well as video e-modules of Globe’s Digital Thumbprint Program included in DepEd’s K-12 curriculum to supplement learning on child online safety and responsibility. The campaign also released two impactful digital films, Parents Social Experiment and Off To School, and organized Facebook Community webinars featuring ambassadors from #TeamGlobeOfGood.
#MakeITSafePH raised awareness on the impact of cyberbullying with the help of social listening and user-submitted content. The results were overwhelming: over 77,000 visits to the MakeITSafe.ph website, a 315% surge in mental health consultations post-campaign, a social media reach exceeding 147 million, and more than 22.6 million engagements.
The Globe Group’s efforts have been amplified by close to 300 content creators and celebrities who shared their personal experiences with cyberbullying, further driving home the campaign’s message.
The company’s success at the PRCA Platinum 2023 is a significant milestone in its journey to combat cyberbullying. As the Philippines grapples with the challenges of the digital age, initiatives such as #MakeITSafePH are crucial in ensuring a safe and inclusive online space for all.
The Globe Group encourages parents and guardians to initiate lessons on online safety and responsibility at home to safeguard the mental well-being of the youth. With its online safety platform, www.MakeITSafe.ph, the Globe Group empowers them to be more effective digital advocates for their children’s mental health.
Globe proudly unveils the inaugural “G Fair: Art & Tech Fusion Pop-up Market,” a two-day event that will give Globe Business customers a platform to showcase their products and encourage Filipinos to support local businesses. This is in line with Globe Business’ efforts to provide entrepreneurs with opportunities to grow their businesses and make their dreams come true.
GFair will be held at the BGC High Street Amphitheater on September 23 and 24 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. This unique initiative will spotlight products from local businesses, and demonstrate how Globe’s connectivity and digital solutions are helping these businesses grow and achieve their objectives.
“G Fair 2023 reflects our commitment to fostering business-to-business-to-consumer (B2B2C) synergies, celebrating not just businesses but the indomitable Filipino spirit of innovation and resilience in the face of challenges through immersing MSMEs in products and services that tackle evolving market challenges. Through this platform, we hope to help businesses achieve ‘tuloy-tuloy na success’,” said KD Dizon, Head of Globe Business.
G Fair 2023 is part of Globe’s 917 G Day program, an annual celebration marked by a series of events celebrating customer loyalty. By bridging businesses and consumers, Globe Business not only drives boardroom success but also ensures that every Filipino customer is delighted at every touchpoint.
The event is packed with activities. Live pottery demos and workshops by Tahanan Pottery will be held on both days, while attendees can also hunt for the best deals through special discounts and packages from local brands.
These include sustainable brands such as Sewn Sandals, MAGWAI, Lumi Candles PH, and Lana PH; social enterprises supporting local artisans such as Habi Lifestyle and Tahanan Pottery; quirky journals and notebooks from Tita Witty Will Save the World; and businesses from outside Metro Manila such as Baguio’s Rebel Bakehouse and Rizal’s Baybayin.
As part of the G Fair, Globe will also showcase Filipino artists. Celebrate and support the industry’s finest art galleries, in partnership with MoCAF (Modern and Contemporary Art Festival), featuring MoCAF Discoveries, R Gallery, Art Toys, Rojo Gallery, Village Art Gallery, Art For Space, Galerie Francesca Emporium, and Cartellino.
G Fair is even more exciting with surprises from event partners such as the country’s flag carrier, Philippine Airlines (PAL), and tech giant Samsung.
G Fair will also feature the Globe Business Hub, where business owners can immerse themselves in Globe’s digital solutions, from SMS blasts to reach potential customers via M360 to e-commerce website creation through Prosperna.
Through G Fair, Globe Business hopes to pave pathways for MSMEs to achieve success.
To learn more about the event, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/business/g-fair.html
Globe is making significant strides in its commitment to bringing 5G wireless technology across the country, building 356 new 5G sites as of June 2023. This continuous deployment has resulted in an impressive 5G outdoor coverage of 97.44% in the National Capital Region and 91% in key cities of Visayas and Mindanao.
In a significant achievement, Globe also announced that it has logged 5.2 million 5G devices on its network as of June 2023. This milestone underscores the growing adoption and trust in Globe’s 5G technology among consumers.”
Our relentless pursuit of expanding 5G technology is a testament to Globe’s dedication to innovation and our commitment to our customers. We believe in the transformative power of 5G to enhance the digital lives of Filipinos,” said Joel Agustin, Globe SVP, Network Planning and Engineering.“
Our continuous infrastructure investment is focused on uplifting customer experience, delivering a highly consistent and available network. These investments cover capacity and coverage expansion to improve service performance, network fortification to further improve service availability, and continuous optimization to improve service quality,” he said.
5G, the latest evolution in mobile communication, offers quicker data transfer rates, expansive reach, and steadier connectivity. Globe is at the forefront of the testing and pilot of several 5G technologies, including 5G stand alone, end-to-end network slicing, and the private 5G stand alone network.
Globe’s commitment to infrastructure development is evident in its financial investments. In the first half of 2023, Globe channeled PHP37.7 billion into its capital expenditure, which represents a 25% reduction compared to the same time frame in the prior year, and this is anticipated to reach PHP71.5 billion or US$1.3 billion by the end of the year, a reduction of over 30% from 2022 levels. About 90% of these funds are earmarked to meet data demand as customers need increasing connectivity for work, school, leisure and day-to-day transactions.
As Globe continues its journey, it remains steadfast in its mission to provide unparalleled connectivity and digital solutions, ensuring that the Philippines is not left behind in the global 5G arena.
To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.
Globe is extending assistance in the form of postpaid roaming credits and free prepaid load to customers in Morocco after a powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck near the ancient city of Marrakech.
This will allow Globe customers to use its roaming services to make or receive calls, and send text messages to all networks while in Morocco. To avail of these free roaming services, customers only need to connect to Globe’s roaming partners Orange and Inwi.
“We wish to provide our customers in Morocco immediate connectivity assistance so they could reach out and communicate with their loved ones during this difficult time,” said Coco Domingo, Globe VP for Postpaid and International Business.
To make a call, dial “+” + country code + area code + telephone number (ex. +63773101212) or dial “+” + country code + mobile number (ex. +639171234567). To send a text, type “+” + country code + mobile number (ex. +639171234567).
To use data roaming, customers may register to a Roam Surf promo via the GlobeOne app or by dialing *143#. Once promo registration is successful, they can start data browsing by turning on mobile data and data roaming on the phone’s settings, and set the network connection to 3G or LTE.
Postpaid customers also have the option to simply turn on their mobile data and data roaming to activate Roam Surf 399–an all-day data roaming service that automatically renews every 24 hours. No registration needed.
According to news reports, so far more than 2,000 people have been killed as the earthquake struck Friday evening. It is one of the strongest temblors to hit the North African country in more than a century, which has left buildings and other infrastructure destroyed.
For additional information on Globe’s Roaming services, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/international/roaming.
Globe anticipates significant rise in non-telco revenues over the next two to three years, aligned with its strategic shift from a traditional telco to a techco with a menu of digital solutions on offer.
Ernest Cu, Globe Group President and CEO, said he sees its non-telco business contributing to total revenues in various ways.
“The non-telco earnings will grow. They could either be consolidated into our P and L (Profit and Loss Statement) or they could be in a sharing equity earnings of a subsidiary if we become a significant minority investor. The other way that it brings value to Globe is it adds to our overall market cap and market value as we create companies that may not be as profitable yet but do create significant value in terms of market valuation that will also show in the stock price of Globe,” he explained.
Cu remains optimistic about the growth, noting that Globe excels at identifying significant, longstanding challenges in the country which can be solved at scale.
Globe’s transformation from telco to techco has led the organization to diversify its portfolio, venturing into various sectors such as fintech, health tech, edutech, climate tech, adtech, shared services, investments and entertainment.
This diversification strategy has proven fruitful. As of the first half of the year, Globe’s non-telco revenues skyrocketed to PHP2.8 billion, up from PHP1.9 billion during the same period in 2022. This impressive 52% year-on-year growth means non-telco revenues now represent 3.5% of the company’s total gross service revenues.
This surge in non-telco revenues is attributed to the growth across Globe subsidiaries led by ECPay and Asticom, and closely followed by AdSpark and Yondu.
Additionally, Globe’s joint ventures and affiliates have also been instrumental in boosting the bottom line. The company’s net share in equity gains grew by 13% year on year to P1.1 billion. A standout in this growth trajectory is Globe’s share in Mynt, which saw a 63% year-on-year increase, reaching close to P1 billion in the first half of the year. Mynt’s positive contribution now accounts for 5.1% of the Globe Group’s income before tax.
With an enviable ecosystem comprising a vast customer base, powerful brands, strategic affiliations, and partners, Globe envisions its non-telco revenues playing an even more significant role in its total earnings in the near future. The company is also doubling down on its efforts to explore new opportunities and partnerships, aiming to strategically expand its revenue streams.
To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/
Leading digital solutions platform Globe recently enhanced its policies for its supply chain, encouraging vendors and suppliers to operate responsibly and integrate more sustainable practices.
This move further underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable practices across all operational areas, thereby enhancing both business resilience and delivering environmental and social benefits. Globe’s comprehensive greenhouse gas (GHG) baselining study indicates that the company’s Scope 3 emissions, which mostly comes from its supply chain, accounts for roughly 80% of its total GHG emissions with 90% of the Scope 3 emissions coming from Purchased Goods & Services and Capital Goods.
Globe’s recently released Sustainable Supply Chain Policy Commitment outlining a fresh approach to align with the values of corporate governance, sustainability, and inclusive growth. Globe will exercise enhanced supplier due diligence, selecting vendors based on a multifaceted assessment that scrutinizes their sustainability commitments, practices, and overall performance.
“Globe’s new and updated policies reflect how throughout the many changes we undergo, our commitment to creating a Globe of Good remains firm,” said Jerry Cabiles, Vice President, Supply Chain at Globe. “We sincerely believe that our business growth should never come at the expense of the planet or its people. We, therefore, call on our supply chain to join us in this journey towards a sustainable future.”
Under its strengthened policy, Globe is reinforcing the importance of the Supplier Code of Ethics (SCoE), expecting all accredited suppliers to adhere to it.
The SCoE expects vendors to uphold international standards on human rights and labor rights and strictly prohibits corruption, extortion, and embezzlement, among others. It also calls for them to participate in Globe’s journey towards Net Zero by monitoring and reducing their GHG emissions. It also encourages suppliers to increase circularity, minimize waste, and mitigate environmental risks and impacts.
The company plans to increase awareness of suppliers on sustainability by conducting upskilling sessions moving forward.
In keeping with its pledge to empower Philippine enterprises, Globe witnessed a 13% surge in its accreditation of local vendors in 2022. This led to a total engagement with 824 local suppliers, representing 85.65% of all suppliers. Furthermore, a significant 51.37% of the overall procurement budget was allocated to these local suppliers.
Suppliers, employees, or third parties can raise compliance concerns or report suspected violations of the Supplier Code of Ethics and other company’s ethical standards through the Globe Whistleblower Network (GWeN) portal or via email to gtprocurement@globe.com.ph.
To learn more about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.
Leading digital solutions platform Globe has shifted another key facility in Batangas to renewable energy (RE) through the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Green Energy Option Program (GEOP), growing its network of clean energy facilities to 25.
The move is in line with Globe’s goal to achieve Net Zero Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, reflecting its support for the commitment made by its parent company, Ayala Corporation. Additionally, Globe aims to source 44% of its electricity from RE by 2030, and 98% by 2050, in accordance with regulatory timeline movements.
The GEOP initiative allows consumers to source RE from a licensed supplier, providing a greener alternative to traditional energy sources.
Globe’s facility in Nasugbu follows its site in Bolbok. Other key facilities within the Globe group, which currently operate on renewable energy, are in the following locations: Cavite (5), Quezon City (4), Cebu (3), Makati (2), and one each in Caloocan, Taguig (Globe’s head office), Mandaluyong, San Juan, Manila, Marikina, Laguna, Tarlac, and Iloilo.
“The continuous shift of our high-energy sites to renewable energy is a reflection of Globe’s unwavering commitment to sustainability. By harnessing the regulatory provisions to shift to renewable energy, we are reducing our reliance on traditional energy sources and improving our operational efficiency through innovative network solutions and energy-efficient equipment. We are not only contributing to global climate action but also paving the way for a greener Philippines,” said Butch Kalalang, Globe Assistant Vice President for Regional Network Operations.
Globe embarked on its decarbonization journey in 2019 by purchasing RE bundled with verified emission reduction certificates through Power Purchase Agreements (PPA). This is in line with the government’s RE policy and the country’s commitment to the Paris Agreement for a 75% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030.
“Globe’s commitment to renewable energy is more than a corporate goal; it’s a pledge to our planet and future generations. By shifting to renewable energy sources, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also encouraging more investments in clean energy,” said Rizza Maniego-Eala, Globe Chief Finance Officer.
The company’s sustainability efforts extend beyond energy sourcing. In 2022, Globe secured the ISO 50001:2018 certification for Energy Management System (EnMS), laying out a framework for energy efficiency and network decarbonization. It is also exploring alternative energy solutions, deploying green network solutions, utilizing intelligent monitoring systems, and engaging its supply chain partners to ensure sustainability is integrated across the value chain.
For more information about Globe’s sustainability initiatives and renewable energy efforts, please visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.
In the current digital landscape, a concerning trend has emerged where people find themselves ensnared in the deceptive web of online scammers. Often tempted by the allure of easy money or duped by cunning tactics, these individuals knowingly or unknowingly become “mules.”
Given the alarming number of such activities, the Globe Group has expressed support for pending Anti-Money Mule and Financial Fraud bills, which criminalize these illegal acts and penalize offenders with jail time. Versions of the bill are pending in the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Ernest Cu, Globe Group President and CEO, emphasized the significance of the proposed legislation, saying “I think that will put a lot of teeth into the things that we are doing against scammers because if your name is implicated, then you can be an accessory to the crime. Right now people do not value or do not put a lot of emphasis on their identity being used in crimes.”
There have been reported incidents of individuals registering their SIMs and setting up e-wallets and bank accounts only to sell them to fraudsters. While some may believe they are engaging in a harmless or victimless act, they are, in fact, supporting complex criminal activities. This behavior continues a cycle of fraud and deception that affects numerous victims.
“These are things that should be made a criminal offense in this country. Because you are making yourself an accessory, you’re aiding in the commitment of a crime. That sort of thing, I think, should be stopped through a law that we are also pushing Congress to enact,” added Cu.
A recent raid on an offshore gaming firm, which led to the discovery of over 20,000 SIMs from various telcos, highlights the urgent need for stricter regulations. The confiscated SIMs were reportedly registered on multiple digital platforms despite being unopened and still in their packets, revealing a sophisticated scam operation that targets innocent victims.
Globe acknowledges the persistent threat of cyber scams. The company’s network security team remains vigilant and is dedicated to its rigorous monitoring and coordination efforts.
Globe also continues to closely coordinate with the authorities to prevent cybercrime, detect scam in its network, and provide support that could lead to the arrest and successful prosecution of suspects.
“The scammers will always be there. And to the credit of our network security team, Globe is always one step ahead of the cybercrime organizations. So we continue to monitor, we continue to listen, we continue to coordinate and we hope that we can combat cybercrime together with the efforts of the government,” said Atty. Froilan Castelo, Globe’s General Counsel.
Globe is unwavering in its commitment to ensuring a secure digital environment for its users. It continues to engage in proactive measures and collaborations with key stakeholders to combat unlawful activities.
To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.
GCash, the Philippines’ #1 financial super app, waives the QRPH transaction fees or merchant discount rates (MDRs) for micro-merchants who use the scan-to-pay service, until the end-of-2023.
In addition to this, micro-merchants have access to an increased wallet limit of up to P500,000 per month. Moreover, the 1.5% transaction fee is waived up to P100,000 in gross sales.
E-wallets and other payment platforms charge fees as high as 2% for the use of their cashless transaction services such as QR-based and card payments.
“For GCash, making this service free means micro-entrepreneurs can earn a little extra for their families through safe cashless transactions. We are committed to working with our micro-entrepreneurs to achieve their business goals in the digital economy,” said Ren-Ren Reyes, the President and CEO of G-Xchange, Inc., the mobile wallet operator of GCash.
Micro-merchants are those with businesses that are smaller in scale, such as sari-sari store owners, public market vendors, and online sellers.
Making use of GCash’s scan-to-pay enables faster tracking of payments received for merchants without imposing any additional cost, even for their customers.
“We are one with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, in its goal of bringing more micro-merchants into the digital economy. Together with our partners, we will equip micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with the right tools and products so they can grow their businesses safely and conveniently,” Reyes said.
To date, GCash has been empowering 845,000 small-scale community merchants with various digital financial solutions.
Leading digital solutions platform Globe has reported a significant 46% decrease in blocked bank-related scam and spam messages in its network in the first half of this year.
Latest data shows the number of bank-related scam and spam messages falling to 4.85 million covering the period of January to June this year, compared to 9.06 million during the same period last year. In the second quarter alone, the count went down to 779,254, a huge drop from the 5.1 million reported in the corresponding quarter of 2022.
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.
“This decrease in fraudulent messages signifies our steadfast commitment to protecting our consumers from online threats. It is also a testament to the power of collaboration between industry leaders and regulators in curbing cyber fraud,” said Anton Bonifacio, Globe Chief Information Security Officer.
He cited the role of Globe’s strategic partnerships with financial institutions in effectively thwarting fraud.
“Our partnerships with banks and financial institutions have allowed us to implement immediate and effective measures against online fraud, protecting the hard-earned money of our consumers,” Bonifacio said.
Last year, Globe entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) and signed separate agreements with major banks to facilitate a more efficient alerting mechanism, seamless data-sharing, and expeditious filtering of fraudulent activities.
In addition to forming strategic partnerships, Globe consistently invests in advanced technologies and initiates channels to streamline the reporting of spam and scam SMS and filter them out of its network. These efforts show the company’s dedication to creating a safer digital environment for its consumers.
To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.
GCash lauds the successful operations of the Department of Justice (DOJ), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) against cybercriminals.
The DOJ, NBI, and PNP-ACG conducted a series of raids and arrests of alleged cybercriminals in the past months. They have successfully arrested suspected perpetrators of various crimes like love scams and task scams, as well as seized SIM Cards purportedly used for dubious purposes.
The authorities are working on the arrest of the suspects linked to the illegal operations – a big win in the shared fight against scammers, fraudsters, and other cybercriminals.
“GCash is supportive of the operations of the DOJ, NBI, and PNP-ACG in going after perpetrators. We are an active partner of our law enforcement agencies as we exchange technical knowledge and expertise on the latest cybersecurity measures” said Atty. Maria Corazon PMR Alvarez-Adriano, chief legal officer of GCash.
In addition to its partnership with law enforcement agencies, GCash is driving the passage of a bill that, among others, will criminalize the buying and selling of so-called mule accounts which are used by criminals to hide their identities when transferring illicit money.
The leading e-wallet continues to invest in best-in-class security technologies and innovations. GCash recently reached 100% rollout for its industry-first security feature, DoubleSafe, to ensure that the person accessing an account is the same as the one who registered in GCash by using face ID technology.
“With the DoubleSafe Face ID feature, even if the users inadvertently give out their MPIN or OTP, their account cannot be accessed from a new device without scanning the owner’s face,” said Miguel Geronilla, GCash’s chief information security officer.
GCash remains steadfast in educating its customers and the general public on how they can better protect themselves from scammers. Through educational materials under the #GSafeTayo campaign, GCash encourages users to be wary of Phishing sites and links that spoof official portals of financial institutions and online shopping websites.
Customers are also advised to transact only through GCash’s official channels and remember that it will NEVER send personal messages to address concerns or ask for users’ MPIN, OTP, or other personal information.
Report scams and other suspicious activities in the official Help Center inside the app or at help.gcash.com.
Globe reported a last day surge in SIM registrations to the NTC as the deadline lapsed and the grace period for reactivation began.
The leading mobile network attributed this welcome stream of last-minute registrants to its vigorous communications campaign and the support of its customers, government regulators and private sector partnerships.
On July 25, the last day of SIM registrations, Globe saw a total 3.344 million SIM registrations, with customers rushing to beat the deadline. The following day, July 26, when deactivations began, a total 452,997 customers caught up to reactivate their mobile services, while 126,344 more complied on July 27.
As of July 27, Globe has logged over 52.302 million SIM registrations, covering Globe Prepaid, Globe Postpaid, Globe Platinum, TM, Globe At Home Prepaid WiFi, and Globe Business SIMs.
A Globe survey weeks before the deadline showed that many SIM users knew that they needed to register their SIMs but didn’t have the time to register earlier as they were too busy.
This validates the last-minute surge in registrations. “We were surprised yet happy with the turnout over the seven-month period of SIM registration, as we have been able to cover nearly all our active users.
We thank our customers for heeding our call for SIM registration via various communications channels- from print, radio, TV, and digital platforms– and our on-ground activations to reach the elderly, PWDs, pregnant women, basic and feature phone users, and those in remote areas,” said Ernest Cu, Globe Group President and CEO.
To register its millions of customers, Globe opened various platforms for convenient SIM registration, including its own online portal https://new.globe.com.ph/simreg, the GlobeOne app, GCash, and bulk registration portal for enterprise customers. It also deployed 1,572 SIM Registration Assistance Desks, including those held in support of government efforts and on its own initiative.
Globe also opened Globe Stores and EasyHubs nationwide for walk-in customers who may need help to register their SIMs.
“What pulled us through in this huge undertaking was the cooperation among Globe, our government partners and our customers. We hope that our SIM users will continue to comply with the SIM Registration Act and register new SIMs so that they can enjoy our mobile services.
After all, this is for everyone’s protection against fraud and other forms of cybercrime,” Cu added. The grace period for reactivation of unregistered SIMs is until July 30.
Globe urges still unregistered SIM users to catch up and comply with the law, as all unregistered SIMs will be permanently deactivated by July 31. Meanwhile, all new SIMs must be registered before mobile and broadband services can be accessed.
Leading digital solutions platform Globe applauds President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s strong emphasis on digital transformation as a cornerstone of national progress in his second State of the Nation Address (SONA).
Globe has long championed the digital revolution, and stands ready to support government initiatives and contribute innovative solutions to empower the nation’s digital leap.
“The President’s emphasis on technology as a catalyst for the country’s advancement is very encouraging and is aligned with Globe’s vision for a digital nation. We look forward to the vast possibilities opened by digitalization for spurring economic growth, elevating the delivery of public services, and bolstering the Philippines’ competitive stance,” said Ernest Cu, Globe Group President and CEO.
In his 2023 SONA, President Marcos underscored the critical importance of digitalization not as a future goal but as an immediate need to bolster service efficiency and create more opportunities in the country.
The President recognized the growing significance of e-commerce, digital literacy training, and science, technology, and innovation as key drivers of workforce competitiveness.
This trajectory is well aligned with Globe’s accelerated shift from telco to techco, as it continues to grow its roster of portfolio companies offering first-to-market digital solutions that aim to address day-to-day pain points of its individual and business customers.
The Globe Group is at the forefront of digital innovations, offering services in the areas of fintech, healthtech, adtech, climate tech, education, entertainment, human resources and investments.
Through its core telco business, Globe also continues to boost connectivity through network expansion and use of the latest technology, and the rollout of innovative products that promote equitable access. The company recently acknowledged the President’s issuance of Executive Order No. 32 to streamline the permitting process for telecom infrastructure.
This effort aligns directly with Globe’s commitment to improving internet services nationwide and resonates with the President’s aspiration to enhance the country’s mobile and broadband internet speeds.
“Globe shares President Marcos’ vision for a digitally enabled Philippines and is eager to support this transformative journey. It recognizes the pivotal role of public-private partnerships in achieving national goals and is committed to contributing to a prosperous, digitally inclusive future for the Philippines,” said Cu.To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.