Security Bank Wealth named Philippines’ Best for High-Net-Worth by Euromoney for sixth consecutive year

First private bank in Asia to achieve six straight wins in Euromoney’s Best HNW category

Security Bank Wealth has once again been named the Philippines’ Best for High-Net-Worth at the Euromoney Private Banking Awards—the first private bank in Asia to achieve six straight wins in this category.

The 2026 Euromoney Private Banking Awards saw over 350 private banks and wealth managers from almost 100 countries and territories across six continents, making it the largest and most competitive program in the awards’ more than 20-year history. Euromoney’s Private Banking Awards are widely regarded as the universal gold standard of excellence in the industry.

UnionBank Introduces an Easier Way to Build Long-term Savings

UnionBank of the Philippines, in collaboration with Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and ATRAM Trust Corporation (ATC), has recently launched a new feature on UnionBank Online app that allows customers to conveniently open a Personal Equity and Retirement Account or PERA - a voluntary savings and investment program designed for long-term goals and retirement.

Preparing for the Future with PERA

In line with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) advocacy to promote long-term financial well-being among Filipino families, PERA helps individuals prepare for a more comfortable retirement. Through PERA, customers can invest funds in BSP-approved products that have the potential to grow over time.

Sun Life Philippines wins two Silvers, two Golds in Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards for innovation and impact

Gerber Garcia, Service Improvement Manager, Sun Life Philippines; Kristine Millete, Executive Director, Sun Life Foundation; Maika Garcia, Talent Development Manager, Sun Life Philippines; and Melissa Borbon, Brand Activation and Partnerships Manager, Sun Life Philippines.

Sun Life Philippines has earned international recognition for its continued commitment to innovation, people, and purpose, winning four Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards, including two Gold Stevies and two Silver Stevies, for initiatives spanning corporate social responsibility, hybrid work, talent development, and financial literacy.

The Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards honor outstanding achievements in innovation across business practices, programs, and initiatives in the region, recognizing organizations that demonstrate excellence and impact across Asia-Pacific markets.

Sun Life earned a Gold Stevie Award for “Sparking Connection and Thriving Together in Hybrid Work,” recognized under Innovation in Remote or Hybrid Work Practices. The award highlights Sun Life’s people‑first approach to reimagining collaboration, connection, and culture in a hybrid work environment. The company also received a Gold Stevie Award for “Sun Pera‑Aralan: Greater Financial Health for Filipino Public School Teachers,” led by Sun Life Foundation and recognized under Innovative Achievement in Corporate Social Responsibility. The program was designed to help public school teachers build healthier money habits and strengthen their long‑term financial well‑being through practical, behavior‑based financial education.

In addition, Sun Life received two Silver Stevie Awards. The first was awarded to “Future-Proofing Operations through Capability Development,” recognized under Innovation in Talent Development & Upskilling, highlighting the company’s focus on strengthening capabilities and equipping its workforce with future-ready skills. The second Silver Stevie was awarded to “Play for Life: Gamifying Financial Literacy to Help Filipinos Make Brighter Choices,” which was recognized for Innovation in Cross-Media Marketing. The initiative uses gamification and multiple platforms to make financial concepts more accessible, engaging, and relatable for Filipinos.

“These recognitions reinforce why we do what we do,” said JJ Moreno, Country Head and CEO of Sun Life Philippines. “At Sun Life, innovation is never just about new ideas or programs; it’s about the impact those ideas create. We remain deeply committed to empowering our Clients and the communities we serve, by building solutions that are relevant, inclusive, and grounded in real Filipino needs.”

To learn more about Sun Life’s products and services, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Security Bank, SBM Leasing, and NMADI expand access to Isuzu vehicles in Mindanao

Security Bank, SBM Leasing Inc., and NMADI executives during the signing ceremony (L-R): Jaja Acosta, Focus Segments Lead; Joey Sison, Asset Business Sales Head; Martin Ledesma, President and CEO, SBM Leasing, Inc.; Nyle Balasbas, General Manager, NMADI; Neil Capisen, Business Development and Marketing Manager, NMADI; Chersam Val Tan, Sales Manager, NMADI

Security Bank, SBM Leasing Inc., and North-Min Auto Dealership, Inc. (NMADI) have formed a strategic partnership to expand access to Isuzu commercial vehicles for businesses in Mindanao, supported by flexible and competitive financing solutions.

From Vision to Reality: Alsons Dev Completes First Turnovers at Narra Park Residences Avia

Homeowners receive the keys to their units as Narra Park Residences Avia transitions into an emerging residential address.

Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) has completed the turnover of its first batch of residential units at Narra Park Residences Avia, the first residential development within Avia Estate in Alabel, Sarangani.

The milestone marks the transition of early homebuyers into homeowners and reflects the steady progress of Narra Park Residences Avia as part of the broader development of Avia Estate, Alsons Dev’s 121-hectare township in Sarangani.

On structure, stability, and the spaces that last

Before scale, there was structure.

Long before PNB Holdings Corporation (PHC) became associated with scale, its foundations were shaped by discipline. The company draws from a business tradition established by Dr. Lucio C. Tan, one that valued restraint, steady decision-making, and clarity of purpose over rapid expansion. It was a way of building that favored structure first, allowing growth to follow in its own time.

It is within this environment that PHC took shape, assuming responsibility for key real estate assets in Metro Manila. Guided by the strength and stability of the business ecosystem it is part of, the company has focused on managing its properties with care, seeing them not simply as assets to be held, but as spaces with a role to play over time.

Security Bank leads PHP2.7B green financing for 80.6MW solar project, deepening role in energy transition

Security Bank led a PHP2.7-billion, 15-year project finance loan for Astra Solar Energy Corp.’s 80.6MW solar plant in Currimao, Illocos Norte

Security Bank Corporation has closed a PHP2.7-billion 15-year green project finance facility for Astra Solar Energy Corp., supporting an 80.6MW solar plant in Currimao, Ilocos Norte and strengthening its role in financing large-scale renewable infrastructure in the Philippines.

The Bank acted as Sole Lender, Green Loan Coordinator, and Hedging Bank for the transaction, while Security Bank Capital Investment Corporation served as Mandated Lead Arranger and Bookrunner. 

Billease Secures Top Spot as the Philippines’ Leading BNPL Platform Amid Fintech Boom

Company targets 50% loan growth in 2026 as digital finance adoption accelerates nationwide

Billease has officially cemented its position as the country’s premier Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) provider, riding the wave of surging consumer demand for flexible payment solutions and the rapid expansion of the Philippine fintech ecosystem.

Billease: Driving BNPL Growth

Billease has established itself as the leading Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) platform in the Philippines, driven by strong consumer adoption and strategic expansion. The company’s recent acquisition of a rural bank has strengthened its lending capacity, allowing it to reach more communities and extend financial access to underserved markets.

“Our mission is to democratize access to credit,” said Georg Steiger, CEO and Co-founder of Billease. “We’re committed to empowering Filipinos with smarter, more flexible ways to manage their finances.”

Sun Life Study Reveals the Hidden Cost of Caregiving for Filipinas

A comprehensive new study from Sun Life reveals that Filipina women are the financial backbone of their families, yet they face significant barriers to building their own long-term financial security.

Entitled “Women’s Wealth in Focus,” the research shows that 51% of Filipinas bear the sole responsibility of managing their household’s daily finances, while 85% expect to financially support their parents’ current or future elderly care. Yet, despite these heavy responsibilities, only 20% are setting aside 10% or more of their income for parental care.

These Three Food Concepts are Redefining Dining as an Experience

How GCash for Business Helps Bring Those Experiences to Life

The local food scene has never been more exciting than in the past few years. With new concepts emerging and a constant demand for something fresh, business owners are constantly thinking about how to ensure they’re set for success. 

The modern dining experience is holistic, and the most successful food entrepreneurs understand that every detail shapes how a brand is remembered. Today, it’s not just about what’s on the plate. It’s about every touchpoint before and after the meal – from how customers first discover a restaurant online, to how they’re welcomed, how efficiently they’re served.

Yet across today’s food scene, the experience is constantly challenged by a recurring issue: friction and delays in payment. For three food entrepreneurs, solving this has become central to building their businesses. 

InLife Benefits champions “Benefits That Work” for the modern workforce

In line with our evolving brand identity, the company, formerly known as Insular Life, is now officially referred to as InLife.

Workplace benefits are evolving as forward-thinking organizations transition from viewing them as a mere cost to a strategic investment. In today’s competitive landscape, employee benefits are the engine that strengthens workforce productivity, supports holistic well-being, and ensures long-term organizational sustainability.

To retain a high-performing team, companies must bridge the growing “well-being gap,” a space where health, psychological safety, and financial security are no longer optional, but prioritized. Addressing these needs is not just a moral imperative; it is a business one, directly impacting the bottom line by reducing turnover and driving deeper workforce engagement.

Maya Shares Smarter Ways for Filipinos to Stay Ahead of Monthly Bills

As fuel prices rise and utility costs continue to put pressure on household budgets, many Filipinos are feeling the squeeze of everyday expenses more sharply, not just because things cost more, but because everything seems to come in at once.

Bills don’t always arrive with a warning. A subscription renews, a utility rate adjusts, a weekend plan comes together — and before long, next month’s salary already feels allocated.

PISOlophy for Pinoys: Skyro launches Podcast Series to Help Filipinos Manage Everyday Finances

Who said that talking about money has to be intimidating? Skyro, a reliable SEC-registered lending app, is proving that financial conversations can be smart, conversational, and entertaining with the launch of PISOlophy, a new podcast series.

Hosted by Ginelle Sequitin and Ian Murillo, the podcast explores financial realities through two distinct lenses: With a combined reach of over 250,000 followers on TikTok and 27,000 on Instagram, Ginelle, a financial advisor, offers insights from a more seasoned perspective, while Ian, a content creator, shares the realities of a younger audience. Together, they unpack financial challenges and practical ways to deal with and overcome them.

Sun Life Foundation partners with WWF-Philippines for Earth Hour 2026

Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation) recently joined forces with World Wide Fund for Nature-Philippines (WWF-Philippines) to advance environmental sustainability through Earth Hour 2026, reinforcing both organizations’ mission to boost climate action and conservation efforts in the country.

Earth Hour is a worldwide movement by WWF that unites people across the globe in a switch-off to raise awareness about climate change and rally for urgent action. As a local activation partner for the Philippines, Sun Life Foundation played a pivotal role in bringing together Filipinos for the Earth Hour’s landmark 20th global switch-off event held on March 28 in Pasig City.

EastWest equips VisMin clients with market guidance for 2026

Economic outlook briefing highlights PH resilience and principles for building well‑hedged portfolios

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) hosted the Cebu and Davao legs of its curated Economic Outlook Briefing series to equip clients with exclusive insights designed to help them navigate opportunities in a fast‑shifting and uncertain economic landscape.

The events gathered clients from EastWest’s Retail, Priority, and Corporate Banking groups for a concise, data‑grounded view of the country’s macro environment.

Sun Life Reinforces Commitment To High-Net-Worth Market With Launch Of Sun Life Premier Legacy

Strategic move positions Sun Life to capture share of US$5.8 trillion Asian wealth transfer as new research reveals critical preparedness gap among Filipino affluent

As Asia approaches an unprecedented US$5.8 trillion intergenerational wealth transfer by 2030, Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. (Sun Life) is strengthening its high net worth (HNW) market positioning with the introduction of Sun Life Premier Legacy, a comprehensive financial solution designed for affluent Filipinos seeking structured wealth preservation and multi-generational continuity. 

The product launch marks a strategic reinvigoration of Sun Life's efforts to serve the country's growing HNW segment, addressing sophisticated planning needs that extend beyond traditional asset accumulation to encompass legacy preservation, business continuity, and purposeful wealth transfer. 

PNB Holdings advances wellness efforts with World Health Day blood drive

Employees from tenant companies at PNB Makati Center participate in the Lifesaver Blood Donation Drive on World Health Day.

PNB Holdings Corporation marked World Health Day on April 7 by hosting the Lifesaver Blood Donation Drive in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross, bringing together its Makati Center office tenants for a collective public health initiative.

Now on its third year, the activity forms part of the Company’s broader health and wellness agenda, encompassing initiatives for both employees and the communities it serves.

Security Bank Foundation recognized by DepEd for nationwide support to public education

Security Bank Foundation, represented by SBFI Trustee Melissa Aquino, SBFI Executive Director Louie De Real, and SBFI Resource Mobilization Officer Ricardo Llego, received the Benefactor’s Award from DepEd Region III, led by Regional Director Dr. Ronnie Mallari, CESO III

Makati City – Security Bank Foundation (SBFI) has been recognized by the Department of Education (DepEd) for its continued support to public education, including receiving the Benefactor’s Award from DepEd Region III (Central Luzon).

The Foundation was also honored with Regional Educational Partner Awards from DepEd Region IV-A (CALABARZON), alongside Division Partner Awards from Batangas City, Laguna Province, Zamboanga City, and Ozamiz City. These recognitions were conferred during DepEd’s stakeholder appreciation events held nationwide. 

Sun Life Foundation and WWF Philippines scale up food security and climate resilience program in Surigao del Norte

Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation), in partnership with World Wide Fund for Nature-Philippines, recently launched a Food Shed Farming Enterprise project in Surigao del Norte, bolstering efforts to promote food security and climate resilience in the province.

The project will build four new food sheds in Barangay Julio Ouano, Pungtod, Ombong, and San Pedro in Alegria, benefiting 120 rice farmers and 600 residents. The sheds, which are constructed using sustainable materials, utilize highly replicable climate-adaptive farming technologies like composting, rainwater harvesting, and natural pest and disease control to produce food. The aim is to improve access to locally produced, affordable, and nutritious food in remote and low-income communities, provide sustainable agriculture-based livelihoods, and enhance resilience against challenges posed by climate change.

Security Bank Capital rises to #2 among Corporate Issue Managers in the Philippines

Security Bank Capital receives Top 2 Corporate Issue Manager/Arranger (Investment House Category) honors at the 21st PDS Annual Awards Night. In photo (from left to right): Ramon Monzon, Philippine Dealing System Group President & CEO; Marvin Matias, Security Bank Capital Director & Coverage and Origination Team Head; Mia Elissa R. Bueno, Security Bank Capital Syndicate & Distribution Officer; Virgilio Chua, Security Bank Capital President & CEO; Daisy Garcia, Security Bank Capital Executive Director & Syndicate and Distribution Head; Maria Margarita Antoinette Lee, Security Bank Capital Executive Director & Coverage and Origination Team Head; and Stephanie Marie Zulueta, Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. President.

Billease Pushes BNPL Forward in the Philippines with iPhone 17 Raffle

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) is reshaping Filipino purchasing power, and Billease is positioning itself as the frontrunner in this fast-growing financial trend. With inflation and rising costs squeezing household budgets, BNPL services have become a lifeline for many consumers allowing them to stretch payments, manage expenses, and still enjoy the latest lifestyle upgrades.

BNPL and Filipino Spending Power

BNPL adoption in the Philippines has surged as more consumers seek flexible financing for essentials and big-ticket items.

Younger Filipinos, especially Gen Z and millennials, are driving this growth, using BNPL for gadgets, fashion, and even daily needs.

Billease stands out by offering perks beyond installment plans, reward programs, promos, and exclusive deals that enhance affordability.

The Smart Saver’s Guide to Surviving Rising Prices

At this point, checking prices before buying anything is already a must. One minute you’re grabbing your usual coffee, the next you’re doing mental math like, “Wait… has this always been this expensive?” Between rising gas prices, pricier groceries, and everything in between, it’s getting harder to pretend your budget hasn’t changed.

Now more than ever, it helps to be more intentional with how your money moves—because even small shifts can add up over time.

VUL: The Entrepreneur’s Tool for Wealth Preservation

For entrepreneurs, success is rarely linear. Income can peak in one season and soften in another, opportunities arrive without warning, and personal and professional risks are part of everyday decision-making. While building a business demands agility, preserving the wealth that comes with it calls for a different mindset – one anchored on protection, discipline, and long-term planning.

This is where Variable Unit-Linked (VUL) insurance becomes especially relevant for today’s entrepreneurs.

UnionBank and SSS equip Filipinos with a digital loan for access to cash when it matters most

UnionBank of the Philippines signed a memorandum of understanding with the Social Security System (SSS) to launch SSS LoanLite — a fully digital lending program offering customers affordable and accessible loans for everyday needs. 

Active SSS members and UnionBank customers can enjoy instant access to short-term loans — from P1,000 to P20,000 — with flexible payment terms ranging from 15 to 90 days. The application process can be done through the UnionBank app, and once approved, loans are credited instantly, giving members quick access to cash when they need it the most. Backed by the trusted partnership of SSS and UnionBank, SSS LoanLite allows Filipinos to borrow with ease and confidence.

EastWest Earns Citations for Excellence in Corporate Financing

Wins at the 19th Alpha Southeast Asia Best Deal & Solution Awards 2025 reflect EastWest’s strength in capital markets execution

EastWest has secured major distinctions at the 19th Annual Alpha Southeast Asia Best Deal & Solution Awards & ESG Awards 2025, highlighting the bank’s expanding role in the country’s capital markets and its capability to deliver high-impact financing solutions for industry-shaping corporations.

As Domestic Participating Underwriter, EastWest played a key role in Maynilad Water Services, Inc.’s landmark PHP 34.3 billion Initial Public Offering (IPO), the second largest IPO in Philippine history, which earned the titles Best IPO for Retail Investors in Asia 2025 and Best Equity/IPO Deal of the Year in the Philippines 2025. 

PLDT Enterprise Bolsters AI Adoption in the Workplace With Digital Assistant ‘Ellie’

PLDT Enterprise is strengthening AI adoption within the PLDT Group with the launch of Ellie, an internal AI-powered digital assistant designed to boost productivity, collaboration, and operational efficiency—enabling faster and more responsive customer engagement.

Short for Enablement and Intelligence Engine, Ellie reflects PLDT Enterprise’s commitment to embedding AI into daily workflows. Accessible via Microsoft Teams, the platform provides teams with quick access to product information, sales materials, and a centralized, searchable knowledge base—helping employees work more efficiently and focus on higher-value activities.

Beyond the hour, PNB Holdings drives year-round impact

PNB Makati Center along Ayala Avenue powers down select lights for Earth Hour 2026.

PNB Holdings Corporation (PHC) joined the Earth Hour 2026 by shutting off nonessential lighting across its major properties in Pasay and Makati. 

The coordinated switch‑off continues PHC’s broader resource management program and provides a scheduled opportunity to reinforce its year‑round energy efficiency measures. The initiative also supported ongoing efforts to monitor consumption patterns and validate operational strategies already in place across the company’s facilities.