by Ferry Bayu | Apr 27, 2026 | Business
Rising fuel prices are forcing change—and Dumaguete is moving first. With the launch of Xpress Super App tricycle-on-demand, drivers shift from guessing to guaranteed rides, cutting fuel waste while increasing income. Tourists heading to Siquijor now pay seamlessly via e-wallet or card, unlocking new demand for local TODA operators. Every trip is insured, transparent, and trackable—turning trust into a system, not a promise. Backed by Cebuana Lhuillier, this is more than a launch—it’s a strategic return to the Visayas. Dumaguete isn’t catching up. It’s setting the pace.
DUMAGUETE CITY — As fuel prices continue to pressure local transport operators, Dumaguete is taking an early step toward digital mobility with the launch of tricycle-on-demand services through the Xpress Super App.
The rollout introduces app-based booking for one of the city’s most widely used forms of transport—replacing the long-standing model of roadside waiting and uncertain passenger flow with direct, demand-driven ride allocation.
From Idle Time to Predictable Earnings
For tricycle drivers, the shift is immediate and measurable.
Instead of circulating the city in search of passengers, drivers using the platform:
Receive real-time ride requests
Move toward guaranteed pickup points
Reduce unnecessary mileage and fuel consumption
You can see the economic shift clearly—once routes become intentional, operating costs naturally decline while trip frequency improves. In an environment of rising fuel prices, this is not incremental—it is structural.
Opening Access to a Broader Market
Dumaguete’s position as a gateway to Siquijor continues to drive a steady flow of foreign and domestic travelers through its ports. With the introduction of digital payments, local TODA drivers are now equipped to serve a wider customer base.
Through Xpress:
Passengers can pay via e-wallets and credit cards
Drivers avoid the friction of cash handling and currency conversion
Transactions become faster, more reliable, and scalable
This is where the shift compounds—once payment barriers are removed, demand expands.
Safety, Transparency and Trust by Design
Each ride booked through the platform integrates core safety features:
Verified driver profiles
Pre-determined, visible fare structures
Trip-sharing functionality for passengers
Insurance coverage for both rider and driver
In a city balancing growth with its reputation for safety and hospitality, these features move trust from assumption to system.
A Strategic Return to the Visayas
The Dumaguete Pilot launch carries broader significance. Backed by Cebuana Lhuillier, the expansion reflects a deliberate move to reinvest in the Visayas—where the company’s roots were established.
This positions the rollout not simply as a product deployment, but as part of a wider effort to connect mobility, financial access, and regional development.
Public-Private Alignment for a Future-Ready City
The initiative has been made possible through coordination with the Dumaguete City government and local tourism stakeholders, aligning with a shared objective: preparing the city for increasing visitor volume while improving everyday transport for residents.
It also represents an early phase in the broader digitization of transport across emerging cities—where infrastructure, policy, and technology begin to converge.
Scaling Beyond Dumaguete
Xpress Super App is currently available across multiple Philippine markets, including Metro Manila, Boracay, Pampanga, and Bataan, with further expansion planned.
Dumaguete now joins this network—positioning itself not only as a destination, but as a city adapting to the next phase of mobility.
Maayong adlaw, Dumaguete.
About Xpress Super App
Xpress Super App is a Philippine mobility platform transforming transport through on-demand, cashless, and insured ride services. Backed by Cebuana Lhuillier, it connects cities, tourism hubs, and emerging markets—delivering smarter, safer, and more efficient movement across Metro Manila, Boracay, Pampanga, Bataan, and beyond.
by Ferry Bayu | Apr 26, 2026 | Business
The Philippines is positioned to lead the global shift toward stablecoin-based remittances provided it prioritizes developer education and formalizes regulatory pathways, according to fintech and blockchain leaders at the recent “Settle In! Manila” panel organized by Morph and Bitget’s Blockchain4Her and Blockchain For Youth initiatives on the global rise of stablecoins and the future of digital payments.
Over one million OFWs send remittances home annually through channels that charge fees as high as six percent and take days to clear. Stablecoin transfers can settle near-instantly at a fraction of the cost, a difference that directly affects household income for millions of Filipino families. OFW remittances rose 3.5% in January 2026 despite seasonal slowdowns, underscoring continued and growing dependence on these flows.
“The Philippines is one of the many countries and regions that stand to benefit the most from stablecoin technology, whether it be through lower costs or settlement fees. The country is ground zero for the shift from a playground for speculation to a mission-critical rail for real-world utility,” said David Hsiao, Chief Marketing Officer of Morph, a blockchain settlement platform, which recently launched a Universal Settlement Layer backed by a $150 million Payment Accelerator to serve the trillion-dollar stablecoin economy.
Global market trends reinforce the call. Bitget Country Manager for Southeast Asia Jose Mendoza noted that stablecoin use for payroll and B2B invoices grew by more than 60% over the past year. Bitget Wallet card spending surged 28-fold, and Visa-issued crypto card spending jumped 525%, signaling a clear shift from speculation to real-world payments.
“Our goal is to make stablecoin payments feel local and familiar,” Mendoza said. “Users shouldn’t need to understand the underlying complexity. By supporting builders who focus on ‘invisible tech,’ we ensure the end-user simply experiences 10x faster payments and significantly lower fees.”
Eli Rabadon, Chief Executive Officer of DVCode, focused on the developer gap. “The technology is ready. What we need now is education and clarity so builders can integrate stablecoins into apps that everyday Filipinos will actually use. There’s huge potential to create real-world utility that touches lives immediately.”
He noted that Filipino developers, alongside the country’s large base of freelancers and remote workers already paid in digital currencies, are a natural engine for stablecoin adoption, but need structured support to build compliant products at scale.
On the regulatory front, Raymond Babst, Chief Executive Officer of DA5, argued the country’s existing virtual asset framework is a competitive advantage that must be activated. “The Philippines already has a regulatory framework for virtual assets that can position us ahead of other Asian markets.”
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has reviewed stablecoin proposals and conducted pilot tests, but panelists called for accelerated timelines as global adoption outpaces local policy.
by Ferry Bayu | Apr 25, 2026 | Business
This April, Mold Manila reminds clients that looking younger doesn’t always mean surgery. PDO thread lifts offer a subtle, supportive lift with minimal downtime—so you head into summer looking refreshed, not “redone.” Learn who’s a good candidate for PDO thread lifts, real-world downtime, how pairing with skin-priming care can enhance results, and why Mold Manila’s safety-first consultations matter—timed for early April bookings.
Mold Manila, a premier aesthetic destination in Quezon City, officially announces its spotlight on PDO (Polydioxanone) thread lift services this pre-summer season. Designed for those seeking a subtle, supportive lift without the downtime of surgery, the treatment offers a “refreshed, not redone” look just in time for the summer holidays.
“We believe ‘younger-looking’ should still look like you,” shares the Mold Manila Aesthetics Team. “PDO threads offer a noticeable yet nuanced change—lift with intention—so clients feel confident for summer and beyond, without the long recovery periods associated with traditional surgery.”
The Science of Subtle Lifting PDO threads are fine, medical-grade, dissolvable sutures placed beneath the skin to provide a structural “hold.” As they gradually dissolve, they stimulate the body’s natural collagen production, softly lifting areas such as the cheeks, jawline, and brows while preserving the client’s natural expressions.
Mold Manila’s specialized options include:
• Cog Face Thread Lift: Focused on defining the cheeks and jawline.
• Foxy Eyes Thread Lift: For a brighter, more open look around the brows and outer eyes.
The “Real-Life” Recovery Recognizing the busy schedules of their clientele, Mold Manila emphasizes a transparent approach to downtime. While results are often visible immediately, the clinic notes that temporary redness, swelling, or mild bruising may occur for a few days. Most clients return to daily activities shortly after treatment, provided they follow simple aftercare such as avoiding strenuous exercise and heavy facial pressure.
Safety-First Consultations Each journey at Mold Manila begins with a thorough facial assessment. Licensed practitioners review medical history—including considerations for pregnancy and keloid tendencies—to ensure that only appropriate candidates proceed.
“Our goal is a transparent discussion of benefits and realistic outcomes,” the team adds. This safety-first approach includes mapping the timing of treatments, often spacing PDO threads with skin-priming facials or the Mold Plasma Lift to ensure results are both pigment-safe and effective for Filipino skin.
Appointment slots for the first half of April are now open. Clients are encouraged to book a consultation to discuss personalized plans tailored to their unique features and schedule
About MOLD Manila
MOLD Manila is a premium, clinician-led aesthetic clinic based in Quezon City, Philippines. Known for its technology-driven, non-surgical treatments and personalized care, the clinic specializes in skin rejuvenation, non-invasive contouring, laser treatments, and IV wellness therapies. MOLD Manila is committed to education-first, results-driven aesthetics designed for real Filipino skin.
by Ferry Bayu | Apr 24, 2026 | Business
In Week 2 of its Summer Skin Series, MOLD Manila spotlights two targeted treatments—Melasma Peel and Melanocure intradermal therapy—to help address melasma, sunspots, and post-inflammatory marks with clear timelines, safety guidance, and sun-first protocols. MOLD Manila explains peel depths, realistic results, and when to choose peels versus laser. The Melasma Peel targets surface pigment, while Melanocure (with Tranexamic Acid, Glutathione, Niacinamide, and Ascorbic Acid) works beneath the skin. Early starts and strict SPF 50 are key before peak UV.
Quezon City, Philippines — MOLD Manila announces Week 2 of its Summer Skin Series, centered on clearer, brighter skin with two complementary options for hyperpigmentation: the clinic’s Melasma Peel professional system and Melanocure, a targeted intradermal therapy. As UV levels climb, the clinic aims to demystify how peels fit within facial treatments for melasma, sunspots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)—and when to consider alternatives like laser.
The Melasma Peel is a pigment-focused, professionally applied peel designed for skin of color. Its Solution Prep reinforces the skin barrier and enhances ingredient absorption. The Ethnic Skin Step features Mandelic Acid, Tranexamic Acid, and Retinal to help reduce melanin activity, deter new pigment formation, and refine texture—supporting a brighter, more even look with controlled downtime.
Melanocure complements the peel from beneath the surface. This intradermal therapy is formulated with Tranexamic Acid, Glutathione, Niacinamide, and Ascorbic Acid to help even skin tone, visibly reduce pigmentation, and boost natural radiance—leaving skin smoother and more refined. Together, the duo addresses both surface discoloration and deeper pigment pathways.
Peels by depth—what to expect:
Superficial peels: Brighten tone and improve PIH with minimal downtime; ideal for maintenance and for many Filipino skin tones. The Melasma Peel is customizable within superficial to conservative medium parameters.
Medium-depth peels: Target more stubborn sunspots and texture with several days of visible peeling; selected based on skin type and concern.
Deep peels: Higher risk of pigment shifts and longer recovery; rarely first-line for melasma or darker skin tones.
Realistic timelines and care:
Most patients benefit from 3–6 sessions spaced 2–4 weeks apart. Early brightening may be seen in 2–4 weeks, with cumulative improvements over 2–3 months.
Melasma is chronic and often needs maintenance (periodic peels, Melanocure boosters, and pigment-safe topicals).
Expect temporary dryness, flaking, or mild darkening as pigment lifts; these typically resolve with proper aftercare directed by the clinician.
Sun protection is non-negotiable:
Use daily broad-spectrum SPF 50 (iron oxides preferred for visible light protection), reapply every two hours outdoors, and pair with hats and shade.
Strict sun care before, during, and after a series helps prevent rebound pigmentation—especially crucial in the first two weeks post-peel.
Peels vs. laser—how to choose:
Melasma: Start with pigment-safe peels like the Melasma Peel plus Melanocure; some lasers can trigger rebound pigment in darker skin.
Sunspots (solar lentigines): Discrete spots may respond faster to targeted lasers; peels suit diffuse sun damage or higher Fitzpatrick types.
PIH: Superficial peels and Melanocure often perform well; lasers considered case by case.
“Clarity and safety guide every plan,” says Adrielle, owner of MOLD Manila. “By pairing the Melasma Peel with Melanocure, matching depth to skin type, and enforcing daily sun protection, we set realistic timelines—and results that last into summer.”
Timing matters: Begin now to build results before peak sun. Allow 4–8 weeks for a series and buffer your schedule around travel or outdoor events. Physician-led protocols, patch testing when appropriate, and dedicated aftercare support are standard at MOLD Manila.
About MOLD Manila
MOLD Manila is a premium, clinician-led aesthetic clinic based in Quezon City, Philippines. Known for its technology-driven, non-surgical treatments and personalized care, the clinic specializes in skin rejuvenation, non-invasive contouring, laser treatments, and IV wellness therapies. MOLD Manila is committed to education-first, results-driven aesthetics designed for real Filipino skin.
by Ferry Bayu | Apr 24, 2026 | Business
Built for speed, consistency, and compliance, Bescost’s mall-ready packages cover design adaptation, fabrication, permits, and installation—helping tenants open on time and on brand while meeting stringent mall standards.
Bescost Printing today announced new business packages tailored for mall-based retailers, led by a Mall Tenant Signage offering that delivers brand‑compliant, mall‑approved storefronts with end‑to‑end service, starting at ₱300K.
QUEZON CITY, Philippines — Bescost Printing today announced the rollout of its mall-ready Business Packages, led by its Mall Tenant Signage solution—brand-compliant storefront signage for retail tenants starting at ₱300,000. Trusted by mall retailers across Greater Manila, the offering is purpose-built to help tenants open on time, on brand, and fully compliant with mall standards.
The Mall Tenant Signage package streamlines the entire process from design to handover, bundling design adaptation and technical drawings, engineering, materials sourcing and fabrication, permits support, logistics, professional installation, testing, and quality assurance.
“Our mandate is simple: deliver storefronts that are on brand, on schedule, and mall-approved,” said Jim Besinio, owner of Bescost Printing. “By centralizing design, fabrication, compliance, and installation under one experienced team, we reduce delays, keep costs predictable, and ensure every tenant presents their brand at its best.”
Engineered for consistency and compliance, the package aligns with brand guidelines while meeting mall-specific requirements for safety, illumination, and mounting. Clients can choose from premium materials and finishes, including illuminated letters, precision-cut acrylics, metal systems, and energy-efficient LED solutions—specified for durability and impact in high-footfall retail environments.
Key service inclusions:
• End-to-end project coordination, from site assessment to turnover
• Brand-guideline alignment, design adaptation, and shop drawings
• Mall approvals support and documentation
• Fabrication, installation, testing, and safety compliance
• Clear milestones, predictable timelines, and post-install support
The package starts at ₱300,000, with pricing dependent on scope, size, materials, illumination, site conditions, and mall requirements. Bescost provides site surveys, detailed scopes, and transparent cost breakdowns before fabrication to help tenants plan with confidence.
From its Quezon City base, Bescost serves single-site projects and multi-location rollouts nationwide, maintaining consistent quality and brand integrity across branches. Retailers and mall developers seeking streamlined, brand-compliant signage solutions are encouraged to contact Bescost Printing for consultations and site evaluations.
About Bescost Printing
Bescost Printing is the Philippines’ premier large-format printing and signage company, known for its world-class output and people-first work culture. Based in Quezon City, Bescost serves businesses nationwide with store dress-up solutions, exterior signage, large-format printing, and full installation services. Bescost Printing does not just print — they transform businesses and build stories worth telling.
by Ferry Bayu | Apr 23, 2026 | Business
QUEZON CITY, Philippines — Bescost Printing today announced the expansion of its printing and signage services to San Juan, La Union, following the successful completion of projects for two local restaurants: Bay-Bay Seafood & Grill – La Union and Pig Out Korean Grill. Both installations in San Juan underscore Bescost’s design-to-install approach, which streamlines projects from initial site check to fabrication and professional installation.
The San Juan projects included storefront and wayfinding applications designed to boost visibility and guide customer flow. For Pig Out Korean Grill, Bescost delivered both indoor and outdoor signage to ensure brand consistency and visibility from the road to the dining floor.
“The indoor and outdoor signage Bescost installed has made a significant difference in our visibility,” said Sir Perf, general manager of Pig Out Korean Grill in San Juan, La Union.
“San Juan’s business community is vibrant and growing. We’re excited to help local brands stand out with durable, high-impact signage and efficient turnaround times,” said a Bescost Printing representative. “Our team guides clients on materials, placement, and lighting to ensure each project performs in real-world conditions.”
With more than a decade in the industry and 8,000+ completed projects nationwide, Bescost specializes in digital, offset, and large-format printing, as well as custom signage fabrication and laser engraving. In La Union, the company offers solutions such as illuminated storefronts, outdoor and indoor wayfinding, menu boards, wall and window graphics, banners, and large-format prints—tailored for coastal weather and high-traffic environments.
These successful projects demonstrate Bescost’s capability to cater to nearby provinces—not just Metro Manila—supported by operations in Quezon City and a production warehouse in Valenzuela City for efficient dispatch to Northern Luzon and beyond.
About Bescost Printing
Bescost Printing is the Philippines’ premier large-format printing and signage company, known for its world-class output and people-first work culture. Based in Quezon City, Bescost serves businesses nationwide with store dress-up solutions, exterior signage, large-format printing, and full installation services. Bescost Printing does not just print — they transform businesses and build stories worth telling.
You must be logged in to post a comment.