 |
| Representatives of Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) graced the official opening of Taiwan Expo 2025 in the Philippines, celebrating stronger ties and opportunities for bilateral cooperation. (Image Source: Corner Magazine PH/Taiwan Tourism Administration) |
Building on a 2025 edition that generated US$53.4M (53.4 million US dollars) in business opportunities and drew over 10,000 buyers, Taiwan Expo returns to the SMX Convention Center Manila on September 17-19, 2026 with more than 125 Taiwanese exhibitors across technology, sustainability, agriculture, healthcare, and lifestyle. These Taiwanese enterprises will exhibit under a “National Team” banner, organized by the Taiwan International Trade Administration (TITA) under the Ministry of Economic Affairs and implemented by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA).
“Fifty-three million dollars in business opportunities showed us how much appetite there is in this market. This year we want to build on that through joint ventures, licensing, and local assembly, so Taiwanese and Philippine companies are building together rather than simply trading. Our measure of success is how many of these connections are still producing value for both sides five years from now,” said TAITRA Chairman James C. F. Huang. The expo sits within a trade relationship that has been expanding steadily. Taiwan and the Philippines traded US$6.71B (6.71 billion US dollars) in goods in 2024 and bilateral trade rose 8.5 percent in the first seven months of 2025, lifting Taiwan from the Philippines’ eleventh-largest trading partner to its tenth. Anchoring this year’s program is the Green & Innovation Showcase which arrives at a moment when Philippine grid reliability and power costs remain live commercial concerns. Taiwanese exhibitors will present battery energy storage systems and hydrogen microgrids designed for island and off-grid deployment, technologies with direct application to the electrification of communities outside the Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao grids. Alongside them are certified green building insulation aimed at cutting cooling loads in Philippine commercial developments, AI-powered waste sorting systems for local government units facing rising landfill pressure, and fully biodegradable plant-based drinking straws produced at commercial scale. The same practical logic runs through the Agritech & Food Pavilion which addresses yield and labor constraints in Philippine agriculture. Autonomous Mobile Robots reduce dependence on manual field labor while smart livestock environmental control systems target mortality losses in poultry and swine operations, a recurring cost pressure for Philippine producers. Taiwanese exporters will also present premium Phalaenopsis orchids, high-mountain teas, and specialty foods seeking Philippine distribution partners.
Where agritech tackles productivity on the ground, the Intelligent Technology Pavilion covers the digital layer above it, spanning the Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT), edge computing, and cybersecurity. Exhibits include collaborative robots for manufacturing lines, forklift safety systems for warehouse and logistics operators, and zero-trust cybersecurity frameworks aimed at Philippine enterprises operating under the Data Privacy Act and rising ransomware exposure. Healthcare and consumer biotechnology follow in the Beauty & Wellness Pavilion which combines biotech skincare with medical supplies. Exhibitors will present functional bio-electro devices, anti-counterfeiting technology for pharmaceutical and cosmetic packaging, and complete lines of sterile surgical supplies and medical dressings for hospital procurement. Rounding out the floor, the Premium Lifestyle Pavilion features rPET recycled fabric bags, electric vehicle safety blankets, micrometer towels, memory storage devices, smart wine aerators, and precision bathroom components, most seeking Philippine distributor and retail partners.
* * * *
Upgrade Your Laundry Routine: TCL Launches Smart Washer-Dryers For Expert Care And Everyday Ease
 |
| (Image Source: Mindanao Daily News/TCL Electronics Philippines) |
Laundry remains a regular part of Filipino household life, and during the rainy season, keeping clothes clean and dry can sometimes require a little more planning. Yet beyond the weather, today’s busy households are increasingly looking for home appliances that can make everyday chores more convenient, efficient, and easier to manage. Responding to these evolving needs, TCL continues to elevate its laundry solutions with smarter, more intuitive technology.
TCL, the No. 1 panel TV brand in the Philippines and a global leader in consumer electronics, is redefining home care with next-generation washing machines that make fabric maintenance seamless, intuitive, and stress-free. Engineered for maximum convenience, TCL’s latest washer-dryer lineup transforms daily laundry into an effortless, one-touch experience, delivering a smart, healthy home solution for Filipino families as TCL expands its innovation footprint beyond TVs. As a trusted innovator in entertainment and home appliances, TCL delivers on its promise of “Expert Care, Everyday Ease”. By simplifying how you manage heavy loads, TCL removes the hassle from laundry day while ensuring your clothes receive a superior, hygienic clean. “TCL is proud to introduce its latest breakthrough in home care, elevating the standard from traditional washing machines to complete expert care solutions. By pairing intelligent technology with superior laundry performance, TCL is positioned to become a Smart Washer-Dryer Expert, serving as a trusted partner for modern Filipino households,” says TCL Philippines Product Director of Washing Machine and Refrigerator Gavin Gui.
Whether you’re handling weekly laundry for the entire family or quickly washing a few personal items, TCL offers a smart washer-dryer tailored to your needs. Driven by a continuous commitment to innovation, TCL’s efficient laundry solutions ensure your clothes get the precise care, gentle handling, and thorough drying they need, no matter the weather. Keep your wardrobe fresh, dry, and clean all season long with smart appliances built around your home’s everyday needs. No matter how you handle your laundry routine, TCL simplifies everyday home care through its innovative washer-dryer lineup — delivering a smarter, effortless experience you can rely on. For more information on smart TCL laundry solutions, log on to https://www.tcl.com/ph/en/washing-machine.
* * * *
2GO Strengthens Commitment To Growth And Employee Experience With Relocation To Four E-Com Center
 |
 |
| (Image Source: FlingerosPhilippines.com/2GO Group Inc.) |
2GO Group Inc., the Philippines’ leading shipping and logistics solutions provider, has officially relocated its corporate headquarters to Four E-Com Center within the MOA (Mall of Asia) Complex in Pasay City, marking a strategic milestone that reinforces the company’s long-term commitment to operational excellence, employee experience, and sustainable growth.
“This is a deliberate business decision that was driven by a clear vision for where the company is headed. It is anchored on creating a workplace that supports our people, strengthens collaboration, and enables the next phase of 2GO’s growth,” said 2GO Group Inc. Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer Will Howell. 2GO’s new headquarters offers a significantly enhanced workplace experience with modern facilities, professionally managed environment, and future-ready infrastructure providing a stronger foundation for the company’s evolving operational requirements. At the heart of the relocation is 2GO’s continued investment in its people. Recognizing that the workplace plays a vital role in fostering innovation, collaboration, and organizational culture, the new office has been designed to support greater cross-functional engagement and provide employees with an environment where they can perform at their best.
The move also reflects the company’s broader commitment to excellence. As one of the Philippines’ leading transportation and logistics providers, 2GO believes its workplace should embody the same standards of quality, professionalism, and reliability that it delivers to customers and partners across the country. Howell added, “As we continue to transform the business, we believe our workplace should evolve alongside us. Our new home at Four E-Com is more than a new office — it is an investment in our people, our culture, and our ability to deliver greater value to our customers and stakeholders.” The relocation represents another important step in 2GO’s journey of continuous improvement, providing an environment that empowers employees, supports innovation, and enables the company to pursue sustainable growth in the years ahead.
* * * *
Cebu Pacific Launches Foundation To Help Build Stronger, More Resilient Communities
 |
| (Image Source: Mindanao Times/Cebu Pacific) |
Marking its 30th anniversary, Cebu Pacific is extending its long-standing spirit of connection beyond air travel with the launch of Cebu Pacific Foundation Inc. (CPFI). The Foundation’s mission is to support resilience and advance sustainable tourism through nature-based solutions. It will work with the local organizations, private sector, civil society, development institutions, and the government to reduce disaster and climate risks, protect ecosystems, strengthen livelihoods, and create opportunities for sustainable local economies.
“For three decades, Cebu Pacific has connected people, places, and opportunities. Through our Foundation, we hope to build on that role by connecting people on the ground with the institutions, expertise, and resources they need to protect the natural environments that sustain them and create better opportunities for their families,” said CPFI Chairman and President Xander Lao. The Foundation’s first major project, the Resilience & Inclusive Support for Empowerment of Capiz Coastal Communities Project (RISE Capiz Coast Project), will commence in Barangay Culajao, Roxas City, before expanding to other areas in the city and the municipalities of Ivisan and Panay in Capiz. It aims to restore 100 hectares of degraded coastal areas through mangrove rehabilitation, with a goal of reaching 500 hectares by 2030. Beyond ecosystem restoration, the project will provide capacity-building in livelihoods, DRR-CCA, and other interventions tailored to the needs of people who depend on the coast.
For Katunggan Sa Culajao Salbaron Association Inc. (KACUSA) which leads local stewardship efforts in Brgy. Culajao, the project is also an opportunity to restore ecosystems and livelihoods affected by Typhoon Yolanda. “We were greatly affected by Typhoon Yolanda, disrupting our eco-tourism activities and our income sources. We are grateful and hopeful that this partnership will not only restore our mangrove forests, but also help revive tourism, strengthen our economic situation, and create new opportunities for our families,” said KACUSA President Christopher Dasal. RISE Capiz Coast will be implemented with Futures Inc., a Japan-based climate finance-linked project developer, and the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), an international conservation organization.
* * * *
AirAsia MOVE Becomes IATA-Accredited Agent In The Philippines, Expanding Flight Choices For Travelers
 |
| (Image Source: Capital A) |
AirAsia MOVE (MOVE), Asia’s best travel booking app, has been accredited by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in the Philippines, strengthening its airline partnerships and giving Filipino and international travelers more choice when flying to and from the Philippines while supporting greater connectivity to destinations worldwide. The milestone reflects MOVE’s continued evolution into a platform that brings every part of the journey together, connecting travelers to a growing network of airlines and travel products and services through one app.
Today, MOVE offers access to more than 700 airlines to 3,000 destinations worldwide including direct partnerships with global carriers such as Etihad Airways, ANA, VietJet, among others. Beyond flights, MOVE also offers more than one million hotels, live events, attractions, and other travel services, all in one app. For Philippine tourism, the growing presence of OTAs such as MOVE creates more opportunities for airlines, travel businesses, and tourism partners to connect with travelers through technology, expanded distribution, and a more seamless booking experience. “Our IATA accreditation is already opening new doors for MOVE. Within the first few weeks, around 30 international airlines serving routes to and from the Philippines have granted us ticketing authority. Travel is an ecosystem, and no single player can thrive in isolation. Our growing engagement with both local and global tourism and aviation organizations strengthens our ability to collaborate, build meaningful partnerships, and contribute to conversations shaping the future of travel in the Philippines. We see a strong opportunity for MOVE to take a more active role in connecting Filipinos to the world, while helping position the Philippines as a more accessible, and compelling destination for international travelers. Ultimately, our goal is not simply to facilitate travel, but to help build stronger connections across the entire travel ecosystem,” said AirAsia MOVE Philippines Country Head Malou Japson.
The accreditation also builds on MOVE’s growing engagement with the travel and tourism industry. Earlier this year, MOVE also became a member of the Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) and Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), further strengthening its ties with the local travel community. MOVE has also been strengthening its collaboration with the Department of Tourism (DOT) through the “Discover More To Love” campaign, aimed at boosting domestic travel. As MOVE continues to expand its airline partnerships and travel products and services, it remains committed to connecting more travelers with destinations and experiences in the Philippines, in ASEAN, and around the world.
* * * *
Western Union Partners With JuanPay To Bring International Remittance Services Closer To Filipino Communities
 |
| L-R: Western Union Philippines Country Director Don Alair; Western Union Regional Vice President for Japan, Philippines, Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands Gregory Laurent; Western Union Senior Vice President and Head of APAC Vince Tallent; ACM Group of Companies Chairman Rico Fernando Chico; ACM Business Solutions Inc. President Atty. Rafael Padilla; ACM Business Solutions Inc. Director Arlene Chico (Image Source: Starmometer/Western Union Philippines) |
Western Union, a global leader in cross-border remittance services, and JuanPay, a rapidly growing financial services provider in the Philippines, recently announced a new partnership to make international money transfer services available through participating JuanPay locations across the country. The partnership will give customers a convenient new way to send and receive money across the world through participating JuanPay outlets, alongside the everyday financial services they already use there. These include bills and loan payments, government transactions, pharmacy services and other consumer services. The offering is particularly relevant to communities with strong links to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), providing customers with access to international remittance services through established local businesses.
The partnership combines Western Union’s global financial network spanning more than 200 countries and territories with JuanPay’s nationwide non-bank financial services footprint. An initial rollout is planned across approximately 1,400 priority locations from JuanPay’s wider network of 2,000 owned and franchise-operated outlets with the goal of progressively extending the service across the network. JuanPay, a subsidiary of ACM Group of Companies, has an established presence in provincial markets and communities with strong ties to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) supported by a network of local Filipino entrepreneurs. For JuanPay, the partnership expands the range of financial services available through its network. For Western Union, it adds a new retail channel through established multi-service businesses, strengthening its existing physical and digital presence in the Philippines following the launch of its upgraded mobile app, featuring dual send-and-request capabilities, last October 2025. “Our vision for JuanPay has always been to bring essential financial services closer to Filipino communities. Our collaboration with Western Union brings together global connectivity and JuanPay’s community-based approach to access. Ultimately, this is about making trusted financial services more accessible and convenient for every Juan,” said ACM Group of Companies Chairman Rico Fernando M. Chico. ACM Business Solutions Inc. President Atty. Rafael Angelo M. Padilla said, “JuanPay proudly marks the signing of its commercial partnership with Western Union, bringing together two organizations committed to making financial services more accessible, cost-efficient and convenient. This partnership represents an important milestone in JuanPay’s mission to broaden financial access and deliver trusted, technology-enabled solutions to Filipinos across the country.”
“With customers in the Philippines wanting more flexibility and convenience, multi-service locations that serve as one-stop shops for their financial services needs have a vital role to play, especially for people and communities that prefer face-to-face support, or have varying levels of digital connectivity. The partnership with JuanPay serves the purpose of being where customers are and creates an exciting distribution model that combines the best of both our strengths – JuanPay’s strong local reach in the Philippines and Western Union’s unmatched global presence, making international financial services more accessible for people and communities that need them the most,” said Western Union Senior Vice President and Head of APAC Vince Tallent. “Partnerships are one of the most powerful ways we innovate. By collaborating with JuanPay, we’re creating new and more effective ways to serve customers, making international remittances more accessible, convenient and integrated into the platforms they already use every day. Together, we’re helping Filipinos stay connected with family and loved ones around the world through experiences that are simpler, faster and designed around their needs,” said Western Union’s Regional Vice President for Philippines, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Islands Gregory Laurent.
