Tag: Philippines

Philippines – The new Tesla Center has been launched in the Philippines to serve as Tesla Philippines’ headquarters located in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the launch of Tesla Center Philippines, urging Tesla to advance electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing in the country. This is part of his aim to accelerate the adoption of a sustainable transport system in the Philippines, reducing carbon emissions.

The opening of the Tesla Center, according to Marcos, empowers local talents by including them in the shift towards sustainable technologies. 

Recently, Tesla opened a facility in the Philippines that produces iron phosphate batteries used to manufacture EVs.

The Philippine government has implemented policies for sustainable transportation, including the elimination of excise taxes on battery EVs, duty-free importation of charging stations, and lowering fees for EV drivers.

Tesla’s recent entry into the Philippines would also help convince more companies to innovate while investing in the EV sector, Marcos said.

Marcos has been urging investors in the Philippines, having encouraged the investment of Valiram Group and Dyson in the country.

“While it is true that electric vehicles are currently seen as premium products, Tesla’s entry into the Philippine market signals much more than high-tech cars on the road. It is a step – a very significant step forward to our long-term transformation towards a more environment-friendly transportation system,” Marcos said in his speech during the launch.

“With a more conducive and empowering environment now taking shape for the EV industry, I am very optimistic that more companies will seize the opportunity to drive this very vital sector in the coming years,” he said.

Philippines – The Department of Tourism (DOT) has launched its flagship tourism program, the ‘Philippine Experience Program’ (PEP) on Klook Philippines’ platform through a partnership.

The collaboration aims to make travel experiences more accessible in the country, while advancing the digitalisation of Philippine tourism.

Through the partnership, PEP’s curated tour packages across the country are now available in the platform, including the ‘Culture, Heritage & Adventure’ tours in the Calabarzon, Ilocos, and Visayas regions. Tours will also be available in Bicol and Palawan.

Each tour spans a variety of experiences, including historical and cultural immersion, sampling local delicacies, and exploring different landmarks.

Additionally, the partnership seeks to integrate DOT’s ‘Tourist Rest Areas’ on the Klook platform. DOT also plans to endorse Klook as partners of Mactan-Cebu International Airport and Clark International Airport.

“With this partnership with Klook, the Philippine Experience Program will now be carried on the Klook platform. The Philippine Experience Program is a flagship initiative of the Marcos administration, whereby, we are translating the President’s vision of reintroducing the Philippines to the world, not just from a one-dimensional lens of fun and adventure, but also from the highly diversified lens of our Filipino identity that can very well be seen in in our culture, our heritage, our stories, immersions into our communities, our gastronomy, and all the other experiences that you can have in our destinations. Carrying the Philippine Experience Program on Klook will also equalize tourism opportunities among our destinations, which is the advocacy of the Department of Tourism,” Christina Garcia Frasco, DOT secretary, commented.

“At Klook, we believe there are countless adventures, unique experiences, and cultural treasures still waiting to be discovered. Here in the Philippines, with its stunning natural wonders and the warmth and vibrancy of its people, we are excited to partner with the Department of Tourism to bring even more of these incredible experiences to Filipinos and travelers around the world,” Eric Gnock Fah, Klook president and co-founder, said.

Manila, Philippines – Payment network Mastercard has launched its Priceless program in the Philippines, offering local and international cardholders unique experiences including travel, dining, entertainment, and shopping. The program aims to help connect people with their different interests.

Priceless Philippines is the recent extension of Mastercard’s global Priceless program as tourism in the Asia-Pacific region gains momentum.

Through the Priceless program, cardholders globally can access Mastercard’s offering of curated experiences in various locations, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.

With the launch of Priceless Philippines, ten destinations in the country have been added to the offering, including a private island vacation, heritage tours, and exclusive concert pre-sales. Mastercard is set to add more experiences in the country.

Simon Calasanz, country manager of Mastercard in the Philippines, said, “The Philippines is home to world-class travel and cultural destinations, and Mastercard is thrilled to showcase the best of these to domestic and international travellers through Priceless Philippines. The program will also support the growth of Philippine tourism and expand economic opportunities for local businesses, complementing the government’s efforts to bolster the local tourism industry.”

Julie Nestor, executive vice president of marketing and communications of Mastercard in Asia-Pacific, said, “Connecting people to their passions, their purpose, and to each other, is Mastercard’s commitment through Priceless and nothing bridges cultures as powerfully as travel. Launching Priceless in the Philippines is part of Mastercard’s ambition within the broader region to elevate tourism experiences while supporting the growth of businesses in this sector.”

Philippines – Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc. has changed its name to Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP) following its acquisition by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Plc (CCEP) and Aboitiz Equity Venture (AEV).

The name change, approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission, is effective starting January 15, 2025.

The acquisition was completed on February 23, 2024, after CCEP and AEV’s announcement of jointly owning the company in 2023.

CCEAP is the bottling and distribution partner of Coca-Cola in the Philippines, manufacturing brands like Coke, Royal, and Sprite. Meanwhile, AEV is a holding company with investments in various sectors, in cluding food manufacturing.

“Our new name signifies an exciting new phase in our journey as we reaffirm our commitment to serving our customers, supporting our people and communities, and driving long-term growth for the country. In the 113 years that Coca-Cola has called the Philippines home, we look forward to a hundred more years of refreshing our consumers and making a difference through our Great People, Great Beverages, Great Execution, and Great Partners — Done Sustainably,” Gareth McGeown, president and chief executive officer (CEO) of CCEAP, said.

Sabin Aboitiz, president and CEO of Aboitiz Group, commented, “More than anything, this new name represents the strength of our partnership with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners. We share a solid commitment to our customers and communities, and with this new identity, we believe we can make a much more meaningful impact.”

Manila, Philippines – The Department of Tourism (DOT) has forged a partnership with airline AirAsia Philippines to promote the Philippines as a Muslim-friendly destination.

AirAsia has been offering Halal-certified meal options on its domestic and international flights, which aligns with DOT’s aim to increase Muslim tourists in the Philippines through inclusive experiences.

As part of the partnership, AirAsia Philippines is increasing flight frequency to Cebu, Caticlan, and Cagayan De Oro with the goal of boosting tourist revenue.

Starting January 16 this year, AirAsia Philippines guests can try the new addition to the menu of Santan, the airline’s food and beverages brand. Santan has launched the Halal dish ‘Beef Rendang with Chicken Pastil,’ which is inspired by the culinary traditions of various tribes in Davao. The dish was developed in partnership with the Universal Islamic Center.

Santan’s other offerings include ‘Nasi Lemak and Chicken Rice’ and ‘Chicken Inasal,’ all prepared according to Halal standards.

“AirAsia Philippines takes pride in breaking barriers to travel and making our services more inclusive for all, especially for our Muslim travellers. We are very bullish. We will make this partnership stronger, bigger, and more successful. We understand that airlines play a vital role in the Halal promotion as we are one of the frontiers of consumer journey in tourism. Hence, we continue to be agile and enhance our offerings so that everyone feels welcomed and truly at home when they visit our beautiful country,” Ricky Isla, AirAsia Philippines’ chief executive officer, said.

“As part of our strategy to become a Muslim-friendly tourism destination, we have ensured that the touch points of Muslim tourists in the country are properly addressed. We anticipate that the Santan menu will add even more dishes that are inclusive to our communities in the country bringing more delight to our travellers. Also, I am heartened to know that the focus of AirAsia will be on the expansion of domestic tourism in the country. This memorandum that we have signed today is a testament to the power of collaboration reflecting our shared aspiration for an inclusive and globally competitive Philippine tourism industry,” Christina Garcia Frasco, DOT secretary, said.

Manila, Philippines – The Jollibee Group, a multinational company operating fast food restaurants, has opened the first Tiong Bahru Bakery in the Philippines, also the Singapore bakery’s first international branch.

The new Tiong Bahru Bakery branch is located at the Verve Residences Tower 2 in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, and is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

The bakery is known for its handmade pastries which use French ingredients, specifically for its croissant, Pain Au Chocolat, and Kouign Amann among others. It also offers coffee, sustainably sourced from Common Man Coffee Roasters.

Besides using French ingredients, Tiong Bahru Bakery also honours traditional techniques in its creation of pastries.

Jollibee Group unveiled its plans to bring Tiong Bahru Bakery and Common Man Coffee Rosters in the Philippines last year through a joint venture with Food Collective, Pte. Ltd.

“Introducing Tiong Bahru Bakery to the Philippine market aligns with our commitment to providing Filipinos with exciting, world-class dining experiences,” Ernesto Tanmantiong, global president and chief executive officer (CEO) of the Jollibee Group, said.

“This marks the first international branch of Tiong Bahru Bakery, and we are proud to open it here in the Philippines. We deeply appreciate the support of our exceptional partners—Titan Dining, Ayala Malls, and Bonifacio Global City—who have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. We look forward to seeing this collaboration thrive, blending local and global culinary traditions, as we continue spreading the joy of eating,” Tanmantiong added.

“For years, the Tiong Bahru Bakery has been synonymous with serving the epitome of croissants and an array of delectably unique creations. Now, with its arrival in the Philippines, we want the location to be the people’s go-to spot where they can indulge in freshly baked products while soaking in the store’s inviting ambiance,” Joseph Tanbuntiong, CEO of Jollibee Group Philippines, commented.

“Our signature croissants take three whole days to perfect—a process that involves careful fermentation, layering, proofing, and baking to achieve that golden, flaky finish that we and our customers love. These techniques are a testament to the skill and dedication of our bakers and our belief that great food is worth the time and effort,” Matt McLauchlan, Tiong Bahru Bakery’s general manager, said.

Philippines – Media investment company GroupM welcomes Crisela Magpayo-Cervantes as its new chief executive officer for the Philippines, marking her return to the group since previously working with its agency, Mindshare. The appointment will be effective in February.

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Magpayo-Cervantes brings expertise in leveraging technology to her marketing strategies. 

Magpayo-Cervantes has served as director of digital practice at Mindshare Philippines and more recently as Mindshare Indonesia’s principal partner. She began her career in the industry at Ogilvy Philippines, where she served as an account director.

Prior to rejoining GroupM, Magpayo-Cervantes held the role of vice president head of media and marketing communications at Globe Telecom for three years. 

During her tenure at Globe, she has led the digital and creative transformation of the company and the marketing communications industry, maintaining her commitment to talent development.

Philippines – Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC), a real estate development company in the Philippines, has appointed Maria Socorro Isabelle ‘Mybelle’ Aragon-GoBio as its president and chief executive officer, effective on February 1, 2025.

The appointment comes after Lance Gokongwei, currently the chairman of RLC, stepped down as president and CEO, which he has held since January 8, 2024.

Aragon-GoBio’s appointment marks her as the first female president and CEO of RLC, reflecting the company’s commitment to inclusivity, progressive leadership, and meritocracy.

Having first joined RLC in 1993, Aragon-GoBio has over 30 years of experience in the industry and has held leadership positions in logistics, residential and office developments, and mixed-use estates.

Aragon-GoBio has significantly contributed to RLC, having served as president and CEO of Robinsons Logistix and Industrials and leading project developments as senior vice president of Robinsons Destination Estates.

In her early career at RLC, she helped establish the company’s High-Rise Buildings Division and increase revenue through condominium and office projects. 

Additionally, Aragon-GoBio spearheaded the launch of various residential brands, forged partnerships, and contributed to projects with government institutions.

Aragon-GoBio is also currently the director of Luzon International Premier Airport Development Corporation and Altus Property Ventures.

“Ms. Aragon-GoBio brings with her a wealth of experience, deep industry expertise, and a forward-thinking vision that will drive Robinsons Land Corporation into a new chapter of growth and innovation. Her steadfast commitment to operational excellence, customer-centricity, agile approach and sustainable development will undoubtedly strengthen RLC’s market leadership and create long-term value for all stakeholders,” RLC’s Board of Directors expressed in a press release.

Digital banks are reshaping the financial industry with convenient, fully online services that prioritise accessibility and efficiency. To stay competitive in this growing sector, they must adopt innovative solutions that enhance customer experience and streamline operations.

Conversational AI plays a crucial role in this transformation, offering real-time, personalized support while automating routine tasks. By improving customer satisfaction and operational efficiency, AI enables digital banks to scale services effectively without compromising quality, making it a vital tool in today’s tech-driven market.

In this case study, we explore how Tonik Bank, a leading digital bank in the Philippines, leveraged Gupshup’s Conversation Cloud—powered by advanced AI and automation tools—to enhance customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

The Challenge

As a digital-first bank, Tonik aimed to stand out by delivering a seamless, efficient customer experience superior to traditional banks. To meet the demands of its growing user base, the bank sought innovative solutions to reduce response times, automate routine tasks, enhance customer satisfaction and engagement, and boost operational efficiency while cutting costs. 

Tonik recognised that addressing these challenges would not only retain existing customers but also attract new users to its platform.

The Objective

Tonik outlined clear goals for its partnership with Gupshup:

  • Enable instant access to customer support and information.
  • Reduce reliance on traditional channels by adopting AI-driven solutions.
  • Deliver personalised and efficient customer interactions.
  • Enhance operational efficiency by automating routine tasks.

By achieving these objectives, Tonik aimed to establish itself as a leader in customer experience while scaling its operations cost-effectively.

The Solution

To address Tonik’s objectives, Gupshup implemented a comprehensive strategy leveraging Generative AI and automation technologies. At the core of this approach was the integration of a Generative AI-powered chatbot tailored specifically for Tonik’s mobile app. This advanced chatbot managed a wide range of customer interactions, providing instant responses to queries, engaging in contextual and personalised conversations, and assisting with routine banking tasks such as balance inquiries and transactions.

In addition to enhancing responsiveness, Gupshup automated routine customer service tasks, allowing human agents to concentrate on more complex, high-value interactions. This shift not only improved the efficiency of the customer care team but also significantly reduced response times. 

To improve AI accuracy and reduce manual retraining, Gupshup took a multi-model approach combining Gupshup’s fine-tuned ACE LLM (built atop foundational models) with traditional NLP models, optimizing for latency, response quality, and cost-effectiveness.

As a result, the chatbot now autonomously resolves 75% of customer queries, covering a wide range of topics from FAQs about account opening and information about loan products. This significantly reduces the need for human intervention. Additionally, ACE LLM’s fine-tuning reduces AI hallucinations, ensuring high accuracy and reliability.

To ensure sustained success, Gupshup established regular feedback loops and performance reviews, continuously optimizing the system for maximum effectiveness and adaptability.

The Result

The partnership between Tonik and Gupshup yielded remarkable results, showcasing the power of Generative AI in transforming digital banking.

Customer satisfaction saw a significant boost, with the AI chatbot enhancing response times and achieving a 45% increase in customer satisfaction ratings. Operational efficiency also improved, as automation allowed the customer care team to operate 4.3 times more efficiently while reducing costs associated with manual query handling.

The AI chatbot demonstrated exceptional performance, routing 9 out of 10  customer queries through the in-app chat feature, achieving an AI accuracy rate of 95%. This success in automation not only streamlined processes but also enhanced the overall user experience.

This initiative is expected to save over USD 20 million in operational costs for Tonik Bank over the next three years, contributing to a significant increase in productivity while maintaining a headcount growth rate below 20%.

***

Tonik Bank’s partnership with Gupshup highlights the power of conversational AI in banking. By automating tasks and improving customer interactions, Tonik enhanced its customer experience and achieved significant operational efficiency. This success sets a standard for innovative, customer-focused digital banking in a competitive financial landscape.

Philippines – ACMobility, the automotive arm of the Ayala Group, has acquired the electric vehicle (EV) charging network Evro under Globe’s tech innovation arm 917Ventures.

ACMobility’s acquisition of Evro is part of its wider effort to eliminate hindrances to EV adoption, particularly drivers’ access to charging stations.

Meanwhile, Evro aims to consolidate the EV charging network in the Philippines, disregarding brand or charge-point operators (CPO) to provide accessibility to all users. With plans to expand the network, Evro is set to add more CPOs to its platform.

Evro’s app allows EV users to find nearby charging points compatible with their vehicle and monitor the charging progress remotely in real-time. Cashless payments are also available in-app.

The app features 33 charging points managed by ACMobility in different locations in the Philippines, including Metro Manila, Baguio, Cebu, and Bataan.

“We built Evro with the intention of simplifying Filipino EV owners’ charging journeys. Since launching earlier this year, we’ve made significant headway in advancing sustainable transport through our tech and partners. Entrusting Evro to ACMobility ensures it will continue to evolve and contribute to the advancement of sustainable transport,” Vince Yamat, managing director of 917Ventures, said.

“We are thrilled to bring Evro into the ACMobility ecosystem. Evro is changing the game for electric vehicle adoption in the Philippines. Alongside our efforts in ACMobility, it will address range anxiety concerns and empower EV owners to have full control of their charging experience,” Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, chief executive officer of ACMobility, said.

“The collaboration with 917Ventures and the Globe Group has been invaluable as we build a sustainable future for Filipino motorists together,” Zobel de Ayala added.