by Ferry Bayu | Jun 15, 2026 | Business
As government moves to address recurring red and yellow alert, PARE stresses that lasting solutions require more than reactive measures. The group calls for stronger oversight, accountability across the energy sector, and institutionalized consumer participation to ensure that energy policies deliver affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity for all Filipinos.
June 9, 2026 – Partners for Affordable and Reliable Energy welcomed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for the Department of Energy (DOE) to address recurring power alerts.
“We welcome the President’s call to address the power situation, but recurring red and yellow alerts cannot be blamed on one agency alone. If red and yellow alerts happen almost every year, then this is no longer an energy problem but an Energy Crisis long neglected,” PARE Chief Advocate Officer Nic Satur, Jr. said.
The group stressed that solving the country’s energy problems requires more than reactive measures whenever red and yellow alerts occur.
“This is a shared accountability issue involving Congress, the Senate, energy companies, NGCP, and both Private and electric cooperatives. Perhaps it is time for all of them to explain why consumers continue to suffer the same problems year after year. Accountability must extend across the entire energy sector,” Satur said.
Regulators such as the DOE, Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), and National Electrification Administration (NEA) play a critical role in planning and policy. Still, they are equally responsible for ensuring that energy players comply with laws, standards, and performance obligations.
Beyond regulators, Congress and the Senate must exercise diligence when granting franchises and oversight powers to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) and distribution utilities. Transmission operators, generation companies, distribution utilities, and electric cooperatives must also answer for failures that contribute to recurring supply shortages, brownouts, high systems losses and expensive electricity costs.
“If the President is serious about solving the energy crisis, accountability must extend beyond the DOE. Regulators, lawmakers, energy companies, and all institutions entrusted with consumer protection share this responsibility,” Satur said.
PARE emphasized that consumers should no longer be treated as passive observers during energy crises. The group called for active consumer participation in technical working groups, task forces, regulatory proceedings, and independent audits involving all energy players.
“Consumers ultimately pay for every inefficiency, delay, outage, and pass-on charge in the system. They deserve a meaningful role in shaping reforms and monitoring industry performance,” Satur said.
“We pay for every outage, every delay, every inefficiency, and every pass-on charge in the system. If consumers are expected to shoulder the costs, then we deserve a seat at the table where energy policies, reforms, and accountability measures are being discussed,” Satur said
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES.
by Ferry Bayu | Jun 13, 2026 | Business
IN LINE with the government’s efforts to make quality home ownership affordable and alleviate the country’s ever-growing housing backlog, a series of actual deliveries of housing units kicked off in the Southern Luzon Region yesterday.
More than 20 Filipino families officially received the keys to their new homes as P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation (P.A. Properties), in partnership with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and Pag-IBIG Fund, conducted a housing unit turnover ceremony and project inspection at Nuvista Homes Lipa under the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program.
The event was led by DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon P. Aliling, Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Marilene B. Acosta, P.A. Properties Chairman of the Board Romarico T. Alvarez, and P.A. Properties President and CEO Atty. Marianne Reyna Lina-Cruz.
The ceremony highlighted the continuing collaboration between the government and private sector to address the country’s housing backlog and provide affordable, quality housing opportunities for Filipino families.
During the visit, officials conducted a project inspection of completed housing units, including the Solida and Marya house model, which is eligible for the subsidized interest rate under the Expanded 4PH Program.
In his remarks, Alvarez emphasized the importance of strong public-private sector collaboration in addressing the nation’s housing needs.
“Today’s turnover is a testament to what can be achieved when government institutions and the private sector work together toward a common purpose. It reflects our shared commitment to addressing the housing needs of our people and contributing to the national goal of providing decent, affordable, and resilient housing for every Filipino family,” said Alvarez.
He reaffirmed P.A. Properties’ commitment to supporting the government’s housing agenda and expanding homeownership opportunities for more Filipinos.
“P.A. Properties stands firmly alongside the government in this mission. We reaffirm our support and our readiness to be a partner of the government in advancing the country’s housing programs for the benefit of every Filipino,” he added.
For the new homeowners, the event marked more than the receipt of a housing unit—it signified the beginning of a new chapter defined by stability, security, and opportunity. Through continued collaboration among DHSUD, Pag-IBIG Fund, and private sector partners such as P.A. Properties, the vision of providing every Filipino family with a decent and affordable home moves closer to reality.
As one of the country’s leading mass housing developers, P.A. Properties continues to support national housing initiatives through the development of sustainable and affordable communities across the Philippines. The turnover of homes to more than 20 beneficiaries at Nuvista Homes Lipa represents another milestone in helping bridge the country’s housing gap while creating thriving communities where Filipino families can build brighter futures.
The government delegation also visited the nearby Idesia project, a residential development offering housing units priced from ₱3.5 million to ₱7 million, now also eligible for financing through the Pag-IBIG Housing Loan following the increase in the Fund’s maximum loanable amount to ₱10 million per member.
About P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation
Nestled in San Pedro, Laguna, P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation (P.A. Properties) is a leading developer of low to medium-cost housing communities in Southern Luzon. Since its establishment in 1994, the company has crafted over 30,000 homes across key Philippine provinces, with plans to build an additional 20 communities in the next 5 years. P.A. Properties, guided by the tagline “Behind Every Home is a Story,” not only addresses the nation’s housing backlog but also actively contributes to economic growth. Through philanthropic initiatives, such as hospital donations in Cabuyao, the provision of right-of-way in Pampanga for civic centers, and the establishment of SanJo’s markets in provinces like Laguna and Bulacan, the company weaves a narrative of community development and nationwide impact.
by Ferry Bayu | Jun 12, 2026 | Business
GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Philippines — June 2026 — Carziqo has extended relief support to families affected by the recent powerful earthquake in southern Mindanao, as part of the company’s continuing commitment to corporate responsibility, community care, and long-term development in the Philippines.
The relief initiative focused on residents in General Santos City and nearby affected communities, including areas connected to Maasim, Sarangani, where many families have been dealing with uncertainty, structural damage, aftershock concerns, and the urgent need for basic supplies.
In the days following the earthquake, Carziqo monitored the situation closely and began organizing a response through its local network. The company prepared and distributed essential relief goods, including rice, food packs, canned goods, noodles, and other daily necessities for affected residents.
The distribution was supported by Carziqo team member Ricky Sendiong Lumapas, a teacher who helped coordinate assistance on the ground, together with Loradel D. Acosta B and other local supporters. Their involvement helped ensure that the relief goods reached residents directly and that the activity was carried out with care, order, and respect for the affected community.
For Carziqo, the relief effort was not treated as a one-time public relations activity, but as a practical expression of the company’s responsibility toward the communities it serves.
“Carziqo believes that business growth must be connected with responsibility,” the company said. “When communities face hardship, companies must respond not only with words, but with real action. Every food pack, every bag of rice, and every act of support represents care, solidarity, and hope.”
The recent earthquake caused fear and disruption across parts of Mindanao. In affected areas, families were forced to assess damage to homes, schools, business establishments, and public facilities, while also dealing with the emotional impact of aftershocks and uncertainty. For many households, access to basic goods became one of the most immediate concerns in the early stage of recovery.
Carziqo’s response was designed to provide simple but meaningful assistance. Relief goods were prepared in organized packs and distributed to residents, including families, elderly individuals, workers, and other community members who needed support after the disaster.
The company said the participation of local team members was important because effective relief work requires understanding of the community. By working through people who know the area and are connected with residents, Carziqo aimed to make the relief effort more personal, practical, and responsive to real needs on the ground.
Ricky Sendiong Lumapas, who is also an educator, played a meaningful role in helping support the initiative. As a teacher, his connection to the community reflects the importance of local leadership during disaster response. Education, public service, and community care often become deeply connected in times of crisis, especially when families and students are among those affected by natural disasters.
Loradel D. Acosta B also helped support the distribution effort, working with the local team to assist residents and help manage the delivery of supplies. Together, their participation demonstrated how local members can become an important bridge between corporate support and community recovery.
Carziqo said it recognizes that technology companies must not separate innovation from humanity. While the company continues to build its platform and develop its presence in intelligent mobility and future transportation services, it also believes that corporate responsibility should remain part of its identity.
“Technology may help move people forward, but compassion keeps progress meaningful,” the company said. “Carziqo’s mission is not only to build the future of mobility, but also to stand with people and communities when support is needed most.”
The company added that the Philippines remains an important part of its long-term development. Carziqo’s relief activity in General Santos City and Maasim reflects its belief that business presence should come with social responsibility, especially in areas where communities are rebuilding after disaster.
Beyond the immediate distribution of goods, Carziqo said it hopes the relief initiative can send a message of solidarity to affected families: they are not alone, and recovery is a shared effort. The company also expressed sympathy to families who lost loved ones, suffered injuries, experienced property damage, or had their daily lives disrupted by the earthquake.
As recovery work continues across affected parts of Mindanao, Carziqo said it will continue to pay attention to local conditions and look for ways to support communities where possible. The company also thanked its local team members, volunteers, and residents who helped make the relief distribution possible.
In a time of uncertainty, Carziqo said its message to affected families is simple: the company stands with the people of Mindanao and remains committed to supporting communities with care, responsibility, and action.
by Ferry Bayu | Jun 11, 2026 | Business
Gaming events authority group SiGMA has honored Evan Spytma, Chief Executive Officer of Casino Plus — one of the Philippines’ leading entertainment and gaming platforms duly licensed and accredited by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) — with a “Hall of Game” award, citing his decades of experience in gaming, technology, and hospitality as a driving force behind the country’s digital entertainment industry.
This recognition underscores Casino Plus’ continuing influence on the gaming industry and reflects the gaming platform’s continued commitment to innovation, responsible gaming, and delivering world-class digital entertainment experiences for Filipino players.
In his acceptance speech during the SiGMA Asia Awards 2026 on June 1, Spytma extended his gratitude for the accolade, describing it not only as a personal milestone but a “representation of the journey that started a long time ago.”
“This milestone is both humbling and deeply reassuring. I could not have done this alone — not without the game developers, partners, and government regulators who share our commitment to responsible gaming. We know how demanding this industry can be, but that challenge is precisely what pushes us to do better. At Casino Plus, while we strive to provide a healthy playing environment, we constantly remind our players to stay in control and play responsibly — and that is how we truly win the game,” said Casino Plus CEO Spytma.
The honor recognizes industry leaders whose vision, innovation, and leadership have shaped and advanced the global gaming landscape.
“By inducting these visionaries into the SiGMA Hall of Game, the awards celebrate those whose lasting impact continues to influence and inspire regulatory evolution on a global scale, highlighting the importance of regulatory excellence and recognising the leaders behind the scenes,” SiGMA said on its website.
Spytma was also a speaker at the SiGMA Asia Summit in Manila on June 2, which tackled responsible gaming, rising revenue streams, SEOs in the age of artificial intelligence, and the evolving regulatory dynamics in the Philippines and different parts of the world. Around 16,000 tech companies, gaming operators, regulators, and their affiliates attended the event.
About IGO Digital High Technology, Inc.
Casino Plus is a trusted online casino platform in the Philippines, duly licensed and regulated by the PAGCOR. The company is committed to providing a secure, fair, and engaging digital entertainment experience, guided by the principles of responsible gaming and player protection. With its continuous expansion, Casino Plus is now regarded as one of the country’s leading online casino platforms, combining entertainment excellence with meaningful corporate social responsibility initiatives.
by Ferry Bayu | Jun 9, 2026 | Business
SwingSmith, an AI golf swing analyzer app, helps golfers turn a normal phone swing video into P1-P10 checkpoints, more than 50 swing metrics, and one practice priority for the next range session. The app is available on the App Store and Google Play with free starter analyses in the app.
Philippines, June 3, 2026 – SwingSmith today announced the availability of its AI golf swing analyzer app for golfers who want clearer practice feedback from a normal phone swing video. The mobile app helps golfers record a swing, review a P1-P10 position sequence, see key swing metrics, and leave with one practice priority for the next range session.
SwingSmith is built for golfers who want useful feedback between lessons, range sessions, simulator sessions, or home-net practice. After a golfer uploads a swing, SwingSmith organizes the analysis around 10 key positions from address through finish. The result includes a swing score, visual context, written notes, and a priority fix designed to make practice more focused.
“Most golfers do not need another pile of generic swing tips,” said Michael Oliver, founder of SwingSmith. “They need to know what showed up in their own swing video, which pattern matters most, and what to practice next. SwingSmith turns one swing recording into a simple practice plan.”
The app focuses on the same questions golfers and coaches ask when reviewing video: where the swing changed, when the movement pattern appeared, and which issue is most likely to affect contact or ball flight. SwingSmith presents that information through a P1-P10 swing sequence, more than 50 tracked metrics, priority-fix coaching, and side-by-side pro comparison views.
Key SwingSmith features include:
– AI golf swing analysis from a normal phone video
– P1-P10 checkpoint review from setup to finish
– More than 50 swing metrics for a deeper mechanical picture
– One priority fix for the next practice session
– Visual swing context and written analysis in the same result
– Ask Brody follow-up coaching connected to the golfer’s swing history
– iPhone, iPad, and Android support
The app is designed to support better practice habits, not replace instruction. Golfers can use SwingSmith on their own between lessons, bring clearer video context to a coach, or use it after a simulator or range session to decide what to work on next.
Golfers can start with free starter analyses in the app. SwingSmith is available now on the App Store and Google Play. Learn more at https://swingsmithpro.com/app, download on the App Store at https://apps.apple.com/us/app/swingsmith-golf-swing-ai/id6532602379, or get it on Google Play at https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.swing_smith.
About SwingSmith
SwingSmith is a golf technology product focused on AI-assisted swing analysis from normal phone video. The app helps golfers review P1-P10 swing positions, track key swing metrics, compare checkpoints, and identify one practice priority for the next range session. SwingSmith is available for iOS and Android at https://swingsmithpro.com.
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES.
You must be logged in to post a comment.