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FinTech Alliance.PH Unveils Manila Tech Summit 2026 as ASEAN Flagship for a Secure, Inclusive, and Borderless Digital Economy

Set on July 28 to 29, 2026 at the Manila Marriott Hotel Grand Ballroom in Pasay City, the Summit is expected to convene over 4,000 global leaders, policymakers, regulators, innovators, investors, and technology pioneers from across ASEAN and beyond.

 

MANILA, Philippines — FinTech Alliance.PH today announced the return of the Manila Tech Summit 2026, taking on heightened strategic importance as the Philippines assumes the ASEAN Chairship. Positioned as the country’s largest fintech and digital economy gathering, the Summit will serve as a key platform advancing the regional agenda under the theme: Building ASEAN’s Digital Economy: Secure. Sustainable. Inclusive. Borderless.

Set on July 28 to 29, 2026 at the Manila Marriott Hotel Grand Ballroom in Pasay City, the Summit is expected to convene over 4,000 global leaders, policymakers, regulators, innovators, investors, and technology pioneers from across ASEAN and beyond.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is slated to deliver the opening keynote, alongside globally recognized experts and practitioners shaping the future of finance, technology, and public policy.

“As ASEAN Chair, the Philippines has a decisive opportunity to move DEFA from aspiration to execution. The Manila Tech Summit 2026 is designed as a working platform, aligning policy, capital, and technology to enable trusted cross border ecosystems. This is about building a digital economy that is not only innovative, but interoperable, secure, and inclusive at scale,” said Lito Villanueva, Founding Chairman of FinTech Alliance.PH.

Lito Villanueva, Founding Chairman of FinTech Alliance.PH.

Organized by FinTech Alliance.PH in collaboration with ASEAN Business Advisory Council Philippines, Asia FinTech Alliance, ASEAN FinTech Forum, and ASEAN Innovation Business Platform, with strong support from key government institutions including the Office of the President, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Securities and Exchange Commission, Department of Finance, Department of Trade and Industry, and Department of Information and Communications Technology, the Summit aims to accelerate ASEAN cooperation toward a secure, interoperable, and future ready digital economy.

A central thrust of this year’s Summit is the accelerated realization of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement or DEFA, enabling seamless cross border digital trade, trusted data flows, interoperable payments, and more harmonized regulations across the region. The Summit will serve as a convening platform for both public and private sector leaders to translate DEFA from policy ambition into actionable frameworks, investments, and scalable solutions.

“The Digital Economy Framework Agreement will be transformative for ASEAN. Our focus is clear to reduce friction in digital trade, empower MSMEs to scale regionally, and ensure that innovation translates into inclusive economic growth. The Summit provides a critical venue to accelerate these outcomes,” said Secretary Cristina Roque of the Department of Trade and Industry.

This vision of a more connected and collaborative ASEAN was reinforced during the recent ASEAN Leaders’ Summit in Cebu, led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., where all 11 ASEAN leaders were in attendance under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together.” The Summit underscored a shared regional commitment that ASEAN’s future growth will increasingly depend on digital cooperation, trusted innovation, resilient infrastructure, and stronger cross border partnerships. These leadership priorities directly anchor the agenda of the Manila Tech Summit 2026, ensuring continuity from policy dialogue to industry execution.

Key discussions will focus on Agentic AI and Intelligent Automation, Stablecoins and Cross Border Finance, Seamless Digital Payments, Cybersecurity and Digital Resilience, and Data Governance and Digital Infrastructure, all aligned to fast track DEFA priorities and outcomes.

“What we need now is speed and execution. This Summit brings together decision makers to drive partnerships and investments toward a truly borderless ASEAN digital economy,” said Joey Concepcion, ASEAN Business Advisory Council Philippines Chairman.

The Summit will also mark the launch of the 2026 Philippine FinTech Report, a leading industry reference for policymakers, investors, and development institutions.

Among the initial major sponsors include Transunion, Converge ICT, Huawei, Advanced Finance Solutions, Inc. (Skyro), Advance AI, Grab, Coins.ph, IDfy, Phi Commerce, Amdocs, and Blockshoals.

International fintech participation is expected from the 16 member economies of the Asia FinTech Alliance including those from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Israel, Hungary, UAE, Luxembourg, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and other partner economies, reinforcing the Philippines’ role as a regional convenor and bridge to global innovation ecosystems.

About FinTech Alliance.PH

Founded in 2017, FinTech Alliance.PH is the country’s first and largest digital industry association, with over 150 corporate members representing more than 95 percent of the Philippines’ retail digital financial transaction volume. Members include leading institutions such as GCash, Maya, Grab, Wise, Maribank, Shopee, Food Panda CIMB, BPI, RCBC, Mastercard, Visa, LANDBANK, PNB, Security Bank, SGV and Co., Ernst and Young, and Alibaba Cloud, among others.

#ManilaTechSummit2026 #FintechAlliancePH #rubyspreciousmoments

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Celebrate the Best of Australia at Landmark: Shop Aussie Brands and Get a Chance to Win a Trip for Two to the Land Down Under

The flavors and vibrance of Australia are now closer than ever as A Taste of Australia recently launches at Landmark Supermarket Makati. The event was led by Landmark Chief Operating Officer Teddy Keng, Landmark SVP for Marketing Michelle Keng, Hans Lim of NexTrade, with the support of Austrade and Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, Marc Innes-Brown, and with the representatives of leading Australian brands.

Adding excitement for shoppers, every purchase of participating Australian products until October 31 earns a raffle entry to win a Qantas Airways roundtrip ticket for two to Australia, an opportunity to explore its landscapes, flavors, and hospitality.

Bringing the Australian Way of Life to Filipino Homes

Australia is known for its clean, green lifestyle and wholesome choices, now within easy reach at Landmark through trusted brands.

Pure Harvest brings organic almond, oat, soy, and rice milks from one of Australia’s pioneers in plant-based living – fully vegan products. Freedom Fresh Happy Nut delivers only the best Australian macadamia nuts in shell, in many different flavour profiles, perfect for breakfast or a light snack. Cobs Popcorn, made from non-GMO corn and only natural seasonings, are perfect for picnics, family gatherings and movie nights, or a healthy low-calorie snack. Busy weeknights are made easier with Dolmio, offering Italian-heritage pasta sauces for hearty meals, while MasterFoods elevates everyday cooking with its premium and trusted range of herbs, spices, and sauces. Leading the way for environmentally friendly and eco-conscious households, Earth Choice provides the highest quality Earth-safe, biodegradable, and effective cleaning.  Yarra Valley Hilltop offers only the freshest fruit juice from the harvests of the Yarra Valley region in Victoria. The Australian showcase also features other Australian icons like Rafferty’s Garden, Smoovi, Binda Valley, Lo Bros, Leggo’s, Infuzions, Charlie’s Fine Food Co., Tucker’s, Brookfarm, Bega, Vegemite, Chef Joey D, Arnott’s, Laucke, SPC, and Red Rock Deli.

Together, these brands reflect what Australians value most: natural goodness, trusted quality, and guaranteed everyday enjoyment.

Everyday Convenience, Premium Choices

These Australian favorites are available exclusively at Landmark branches in Makati, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Trinoma, BGC, Alabang, and Nuvali, making it easy for families to bring home the best of Australia, from healthy and balanced meals to eco-friendly cleaning.

Strengthening Ties, Celebrating Culture

A Taste of Australia also highlights the growing partnership between Australia and the Philippines: supporting trade, showcasing sustainable producers, and celebrating shared love for good food and sharing joy together in community.

Discover the freshness, flavors, and spirit of Australia, now just an aisle away at Landmark. Visit your nearest branch or shop online at landmark.ph.

Featured photo:

Celebrating the best of Australia at Landmark. From left: Michelle Keng, SVP for Merchandising, The Landmark Corporation; Rey Co, Managing Director, High Tower Aussie Lamb; Australian Ambassador Marc Innes-Brown; Hans Lim, SVP and General Manager, Nextrade Philippines Inc.; and Warren Chua, VP, Nature’s Harvest Corporation, mark the opening of A Taste of Australia at Landmark Supermarket Makati, showcasing premium Australian brands including Pure Harvest, MasterFoods, Earth Choice, and Yarra Valley Hilltop.

#ATasteofAustralia #Landmark #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Beyond Comfort and Convenience: Richmonde Hotels Offer Enriching Business Stays

Today’s business traveler is looking for more than just a room to sleep in, but also comfortable, enriching, and thoughtfully designed to support their busy schedules. Whether it’s for a quick overnight trip, an extended assignment, or a “bleisure” escape that mixes meetings with a bit of me-time, Richmonde Hotels understand what matters most and deliver them with happy and heartfelt service. Each Richmonde property is distinctly placed and purposefully equipped to be the traveler’s trusted homebase during work trips where productivity can flow seamlessly, and downtime can be enjoyed effortlessly.

Richmonde Hotel Ortigas: A Trusted Retreat in the Heart of the Metro

Set in the bustling commercial and business district of Ortigas Center, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas is a familiar and dependable option for travelers who prefer to stay at a central location that’s close to the action. Just a short walk away from corporate offices, top shopping malls, and key transportation routes, the hotel provides unmatched accessibility in the metro with neighboring major cities easily within reach.

 

“Our team has been welcoming business travelers since 1999, back when Ortigas was just beginning to grow into the commercial hub it is today,” shares Oliver Esguerra, General Manager. “Through the years, we have adapted to the changing needs of our guests while keeping our signature Richmonde warmth and timeless appeal.”

Guests can start the day with a hearty breakfast buffet at Richmonde Café, cap off long hours at the office with live music and drinks at The Exchange, or squeeze in a quick gym session or meditation in the sauna. For those hosting meetings or small events, Richmonde’s function rooms provide an intimate yet well-equipped setting backed by personalized service and flexible packages.

Launched recently is Richmonde Ortigas’ Business Stay Package, available until December 30, 2025, which includes practical inclusions such as one-way airport transfers, dining discounts, Wi-Fi connection, and access to the Health Club’s facilities, at rates starting at just PhP 5,900nett with extended stay rates even lower. Guests can book or inquire through (632) 8638 7777, (63) 917 859 7914, or stay@richmondeortigas.com. Reservations may also be made directly online at www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph.

Eastwood Richmonde Hotel: A Modern Stay in a Vibrant Live-Work-Play Community

Perfectly positioned in the lively and secure township of Eastwood City in Quezon City, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel offers a stylish and convenient stay for travelers who appreciate having everything close at hand. Here, you’re just steps away from BPO offices, casual and fine dining options, retail outlets, and entertainment spots—making it ideal for both business and leisure pursuits.

“As a preferred residence for business executives, especially those on extended assignments, we offer the comfort and flexibility of a second home,” says Jun Justo, Cluster General Manager. “We also make it easy for guests to blend work and leisure in a way that’s seamless and satisfying.”

Dining at Eastwood Café+Bar is always a delightful break between online meetings or strategy sessions, while the outdoor pool and gym offer a quick reset whenever the schedule allows. For meetings and live-in conferences, the hotel’s flexible function spaces and experienced events team make planning hassle-free.

To further streamline business trips, Eastwood Richmonde offers a Business Stay Package inclusive of airport transfers, 20% discounts on food and beverage, and access to wellness amenities for as low as PhP 6,500nett and available until December 30, 2025. Special arrangements and rates for extended stays are also available. Bookings may be made directly through (632) 8570 7777, (63) 917 531 6867, stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com, or www.eastwoodrichmondehotel.com.ph.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo: Where Business Travel Comes with a Touch of Culture

For business travelers flying to Western Visayas, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo offers a refreshing change of pace without compromising on efficiency and style. Situated within the progressive Iloilo Business Park (IBP), the hotel is surrounded by corporate offices, the Iloilo Convention Center (ICON), Festive Walk Mall, and lush open spaces—striking the perfect balance between work and well-being. For the culturally inclined, there is the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Arts (ILOMOCA) within walking distance from the hotel, to provide moments of quiet inspiration during quick breaks at work.

“Many of our guests come for work, but we want them to leave with a deeper appreciation of Iloilo,” shares Natalie Lim, General Manager. “From our menu to curated city tours, we share the story of Iloilo in ways that enrich even the briefest stays.”

After a day of business or exploration, guests can retreat to well-appointed rooms designed for relaxation and ease, inviting quiet rest and recharge. After-hours entertainment can be found at BizBar, while the hotel’s outdoor pool and 24/7 fitness center add to the ways guests can unwind and find balance during their stay.

At Richmonde Iloilo, the comforts of home, the flair of local culture, and the needs of the modern traveler all come together effortlessly, soulfully, and at great value with the hotel’s Business Stay Package, valid until December 30, 2025, which offers airport transfers, welcome drinks, buffet breakfast, use of a meeting room and wellness amenities starting at only PhP 7,500 nett. Special long stay rates may also be arranged. Direct bookings are recommended through (6333) 328 7888, (63) 917 580 9058, stay@richmondeiloilo.com, or www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph.

So, whether you’re headed to Manila for a business presentation or flying to Iloilo for a site inspection, Richmonde Hotels give you a practical place to stay, where productivity thrives, personal comfort is prioritized, and thoughtful service makes each trip more than just another to-do on the calendar.

#RichmondeHotels #businesstays #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Bosch Power Tools Zone: Rule with Tools

Bosch, a global leader in technology in services, introduced Power Tools Zone as a feature of its recent event, Bosch Global City held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheater, this premier event highlighted the brand’s latest advancements in construction technology.

The Power Tools Zone highlighted Bosch’s commitment to transforming heavy-duty tasks through advanced cordless technologies. It demonstrated how Bosch’s robust and precise power tools simplify challenging projects and enhance productivity and performance in modern work environments.

Attendees engaged directly with Bosch’s power tools through interactive demonstrations, revealing their precision and efficiency. From Bosch’s innovated cordless power tools, including hammers, drills, wrenches, and circular saws, guests experienced how these tools and its matching professional accessories streamline tasks and allow them to work smarter, living the freedom that their work demands. A dedicated area featured Bosch’s measuring tools, demonstrating their precision in measuring, aligning and detection tasks. Additionally, the outdoor and garden tools, which includes high pressure washers, tire inflators and glue pens also featured for the DIY segment. Lastly, the first exclusive preview of the professional hand tools was unveiled.

Bosch Philippines welcomed construction professionals and enthusiasts to Bosch Global City, where they discovered how Bosch’s cutting-edge solutions are transforming the industry.

Find out how Bosch’s construction tools can bring your projects to life by visiting https://www.bosch.com.ph/ or following Bosch Philippines on Facebook and LinkedIn.

#Bosch #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Globe Business empowers Filipino entrepreneurs at G Fair 2024

Globe Business reinforces its commitment to empowering entrepreneurs with the highly anticipated G Fair, an exciting showcase of the latest local finds across various passion points and interests. This vibrant pop-up market spotlights the best of Filipino craftsmanship while aiming to boost B2B2C engagement by creating a dynamic platform for entrepreneurs to forge meaningful connections with consumers.

G Fair will run on September 20 and 21 from 10 am to 9 pm at the BGC Amphitheater as part of Globe’s month-long G Day celebration.

Here’s what is in store at the fair:

  • Art & Tech Fusion: Immerse yourself in a world where art and technology converge, as talented Filipino artists and entrepreneurs showcase their unique creations.
  • Curated Selection: From handcrafted fashion and accessories by Baybayin Bags, Habi Lifestyle, Sewn Sandals, X Label Store, HOF Plus, Trinkets, Yana’s  Woven Textile, Veroni Star, MyMantra Jewelry, Love and Luna, and Gratia Manila  to delectable treats from Batter & Bake, Baked By Morena, and W Bakehouse, G Fair offers something for everyone.
  • Home & Lifestyle: Enhance your living spaces with stylish and sustainable products from Lumi Candles.
  • Wellness & Beauty: Pamper yourself with natural and locally-sourced products from Arete Lifestyle, Russ & Rose and MAGWAI.
  • Coffee & Confections: Indulge in aromatic coffee blends from H Proper, Rustique Corners Coffee, 1C Coffee, SSPACE, and savor artisanal gelato from Araro Gelato.

“We’re holding this MSME bazaar as a gesture of appreciation for the continued trust our clients have placed in us. Through G Fair, we aim to give them an opportunity to present their products, expand their reach, and connect with new customers to grow their businesses. They will also get to immerse in the Globe Business Hub, where we feature digital solutions for their ever-evolving needs,” said KD Dizon, Head of Globe Business.

 Globe Business Hub: Your Partner in Digital Transformation

Recognizing unique challenges faced by MSMEs, such as increasing customer reach and day-to-day manual processes, the hub will feature connectivity plans that cater to businesses of all sizes and needs for seamless business operations. Digital solutions will also be present on-ground. This includes Google AI, which enhances productivity; Prosperna, which is designed to help with merchants’ e-commerce site management; and various cybersecurity solutions, which aim to secure customer information and merchants’ data.

Exclusive Deals and Unforgettable Experiences

  • Merchant Hour: Enjoy special discounts and promotions throughout the day, making it the perfect time to shop for unique gifts or treat yourself.
  • Interactive Demonstrations: Witness firsthand the ingenuity behind the products and services on display, and gain valuable insights from passionate entrepreneurs.
  • Raffle: Participate in a raffle for a chance to win exciting prizes and take home a piece of the G Fair magic.
  • Prosperna Integration: Pre-order products from participating merchants for convenient pick-up at the fair, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience.

Celebrate the best of Filipino craftsmanship at G Fair and learn more  by visiting https://glbe.co/GFair2024.

#GFair #GDay #Globe #rubyspreciousmoments

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Essence of Cleopatra Aromatherapy: How a couple’s love revolutionized aromatherapy

Lloyd and Judith Barran seemed to have it all– a blossoming business, a great marriage, but one must simply know how they came to achieve all of this. There is one word for it: love.

 

A couple’s shared love and passion

 Before they married and had three wonderful children, Lloyd and Judith were in different worlds– almost literally. Lloyd was born in Guyana, South America while Judith first saw the light of the world in Davao, Philippines. Even as a young man, Lloyd did everything with passion and grit. He was a stellar student– up till he entered college at the University of Saskatchewan, he continued his love for science by taking up Pharmacy.

However, science took a break for a while when he went back to Guyana to become a corporate secretary to six companies in the Booker, McConnell Group of Companies. It was a great undertaking, but his love for science still prevailed as he went back to Canada, eventually opening up a retail pharmacy that lasted for 25 years. That was the time when Lloyd met Judith– an encounter like no other.

 

Judith and Lloyd Barran: The couple’s love for aromatherapy and their strong bond has been crucial for the Essence of Cleopatra Aromatherapy, Presenting Cleopatra Luxury Skincare to rise to greater heights.

 

Judith was a Commerce graduate, but she was also keen on discovering and making new paths for herself. She studied interior decorating, and affluent people from Davao would acquire her to decorate their mansions. She followed her heart and married Lloyd in 1992, and moved to Canada a year later. In 2000, She attended Aromatherapy school, and Lloyd followed her the next year. Their love for each other and their interest in aromatherapy brought forth the existence of Essence of Cleopatra Aromatherapy, Presenting Cleopatra Luxury Skincare– a testament of dedication and passion to their craft.

 

Judith is currently focused on marketing its products in Western Canada, preparing for the launch of its product in the fall of 2022.

 

A product of their love and dedication 

The Essence of Cleopatra Aromatherapy, Presenting Cleopatra Luxury Skincare features a wide range of products that seek to enlighten one’s well-being and promote a healthy and invigorated lifestyle as well. Like the name Cleopatra, which originated from Ancient Egypt, they also want their customers to experience beauty in its most refreshing form. They have several products that seek to help people feel naturally better. They have several aromatherapy blends for Muscle & Joint Pain, Cold Sores, Headaches, and Cold & Flu, among others. All of their products are made from 100% essential oils and are used and recommended by doctors and dermatologists alike.

During the pandemic, they have also created their skincare line, Cleopatra Luxury Skincare. It features a variety of luxury serums–the Scar and Stretch Mark serum, the Youth Serum Elixir, and the Acne Blend. Customers from all over the world have been raving about it, as it enhances their youthful beauty and nourishes the skin!

On to greater heights

 Despite all the odds, the couple’s love for aromatherapy and their strong bond has been crucial for the Essence of Cleopatra Aromatherapy, Presenting Cleopatra Luxury Skincare to rise to greater heights. Their partnership, sense of duty, and love for each other have helped them grow together and as individuals. In turn, the Essence of Cleopatra Aromatherapy is now growing and thriving, never backing down.

 

Lloyd and Judith are now hand in hand in managing their business, which has also helped people from all around the world discover what it takes to take their health and beauty to a higher level. Judith is currently focused on marketing its products in Western Canada, preparing for the launch of its product in the fall of 2022. One thing is for sure– their love for aromatherapy and each other will never waver, much like the Essence of Cleopatra Aromatherapy’s success.

For more information, visit www.essenceofcleopatra.com.

 

#EssenceofCleopatra #luxuryskincare #LloydandJudithBarran #AlbertaCanada #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph