Aboitiz is undergoing its Great Transformation to become the Philippines' first techglomerate.

The Great Transformation

Innovation

Synergy

Column

University of Experience

People & Culture

PSAC

PSAC Supports PBBM In Improving Filipinos' Access To Essential Meds

Sabi Ni Sabin: Connect The Dots!

Infrastructure

LIMA Tower One Achieves Q3's 2nd Largest Office Lease with Conduent

How Looking Beyond Data Led Kath To Finding Her Bigger Purpose

Aboitiz Group Advisory to External Stakeholders regarding COVID-19

2019 Bankers’ Night

2019 Brigada Eskwela Cebu

Aboitiz Eyes

The wait is finally over! Tesla, the world’s leader in electric vehicle
technology and sustainable energy, has officially made its debut in the
Philippines—and with UnionBank, Filipinos are closer than ever to bringing home
one of these revolutionary vehicles! 

Tesla’s best-selling electric SUV and sedan, the Model Y and Model 3, are now
available for preview at the Tesla Experience Centre at Retail 25 in Uptown
Parade, Bonifacio Global City. As one of Tesla’s preferred financial providers
in the Philippines, UnionBank is making it easier for more Filipinos to unlock
the future of electric driving through tailored financing packages, competitive
rates, and premium services.

“UnionBank is honored to support Tesla’s mission to accelerate the world’s
transition to sustainable energy, making the electric vehicle dream a reality
for Filipinos who are eager to lead the change into a high-tech, eco-conscious
future,” said Mukul Sukhani, UnionBank’s Cards and Consumer Loans Head. “Through
our offerings, UnionBank believes that Tesla’s groundbreaking electric vehicles
will become more accessible to those ready to embrace the future of driving.”

UnionBank’s fast-track approval process simplifies and speeds up the journey to
Tesla ownership, enabling customers to secure financing quickly and easily. With
competitive interest rates and a streamlined application process, UnionBank is
dedicated to providing a seamless experience for those looking to make the move
to electric driving. UnionBank customers can also sign up for a test drive to
experience firsthand the sustainable performance, advanced technology, and
effortless handling that define Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3. 

With the first wave of Tesla vehicle deliveries estimated by first quarter of
2025. Follow official Tesla PH on X (@teslaphp) and Instagram (@teslamotorsph)
for latest updates. 

Ready to drive to the future? Connect with a UnionBank Tesla representative to
explore tailored financing options or visit the UnionBank website at 
www.unionbankph.com [http://www.unionbankph.com]. For more updates, follow
UnionBank on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/unionbankph], X (formerly
Twiter) [https://x.com/unionbankph], Instagram
[https://www.instagram.com/unionbankph/?hl=en], or Youtube
[https://www.youtube.com/@UnionBankofthePhilippines]. Union Bank of the
Philippines is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas 
https://www.bsp.gov.ph

Banking and Financial Services

Be Among First In PH To Own A Tesla With UnionBank

By Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Chief Reputation and Sustainability Officer,
Aboitiz Group and President, Aboitiz Foundation
This article was originally published on the author's Tribune.net column 'On
the
G(ood) Side'.
[https://tribune.net.ph/2024/11/18/cop-29-towards-building-a-sustainable-future]


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The Philippines stands at a critical juncture as the world gathers in Baku,
Azerbaijan for the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29). With the country
facing the brunt of climate change impacts, its participation in this global
climate summit is not just important, but imperative. 
The Philippines, a climate-vulnerable nation, has firsthand experience of the
devastating impacts of climate change. In just one month, six typhoons have made
landfall in the Philippines, with at least two—‘Kristine’ and ‘Pepito’—leaving a
trail of devastation across several provinces. Recognizing the urgency of this
crisis, the Philippine government has prepared a comprehensive strategy to
mitigate climate change and adapt to its inevitable consequences.

One of the key priorities for the Philippines at COP29 is securing adequate
climate finance. This funding is essential to implement ambitious climate action
plans, such as building climate-resilient infrastructure, transitioning to
renewable energy sources and supporting vulnerable communities. The Philippines,
along with other developing countries, has consistently called for increased
financial support from developed nations to address the disproportionate impacts
of climate change.

The Philippines’ as lead host for the Loss and Damage Fund (LDF) Board is a
testament to our commitment in helping drive the financial instruments so that
climate-vulnerable nations may recover from the effects of climate change.
Developed countries, however, must be compelled to contribute to this climate
finance obligation so as to prevent additional strain on developing countries.

In addition to the LDF, the Philippines is actively participating in the Global
Stocktake (GST) process. The GST is a crucial mechanism for assessing collective
progress towards the goals of the Paris Agreement. But for this endeavor to
succeed, there must be an open, transparent, and inclusive process that
considers the diverse perspectives of developing countries.

From left: Richard Sherman (FLRD Co-Chair); Akihiko Nishio (Vice President of
Development Finance, World Bank; Jean-Cristophe Donnelier (FLRD Co-chair); Axel
Van Trotsenburg (Senior Managing Director, World Bank); Secretary Maria Antonia
Yulo Loyzaga (DENR); Yalchin Rafayev (COP29 Lead Negotiator Azerbaijan; Hana
Alhashimi (COP28 Presidency Representative and UAE Chief Climate Negotiator);
Ambassador Wael Abul-Magd (COP27 Representative and Egypt Chief Climate
Negotiator); Ibrahima Cheikh Diong (Executive Director, FRLD); Daniele Violetti
(Senior Director, UNFCCC). Photo from DENRThe GST can also generate more robust
and informed decision-making by providing adequate support, particularly for
developing countries, to address data gaps in its climate assessments.

The transition towards a low-carbon economy should also be more inclusive. The
Philippines is pushing for the alignment of the Just Transition Work Programme
(JTWP) with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to ensure balance between
social, economic, and environmental objectives. This approach in implementing
the JTWP would involve investing in education and training to equip workers with
the skills needed for a green economy, creating decent jobs, and ensuring that
the benefits of the transition are shared equitably.

International cooperation is crucial for the success of the Philippines’ climate
strategy. The country can leverage expertise, technology, and resources to
accelerate its climate action efforts in partnership with foreign institutions.
Collaborative initiatives, such as knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and
capacity building, are essential to building climate resilience and achieving
sustainable development goals.

COP29 presents a unique opportunity for the Philippines to shape the global
climate agenda. By prioritizing climate finance, international cooperation, and
domestic climate action, the country can position itself as a leader in the
fight against climate change. Through strong international cooperation and the
mobilization of adequate climate finance, we can play a bigger role in building
a more resilient and sustainable future for all.

Sustainability

COP29: Towards Building A Sustainable Future

President Marcos Jr. met with PSAC Health members for their final 2024 meeting
to review progress on expanding the healthcare workforce, advancing PhilHealth
services, and improving access to essential medicines. PSAC expressed gratitude
to government partners for their ongoing support in enhancing healthcare for
Filipinos. (photo from PCO)The Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) voiced its
support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s initiatives to improve access to
essential medicines for Filipinos. PSAC emphasizes that through streamlined
processes and increased resources, the public healthcare system can better serve
the population, aligning with the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act's goals.

A key recommendation from PSAC is for the Department of Health (DOH) to expedite
the review and inclusion of additional medicines into the Philippine National
Formulary (PNF). Expanding this list to include treatments for conditions such
as cough and breast cancer would make essential medicines more accessible to
those who rely on the public health system.

PSAC also advocates for reform in the current approval process for new medicines
and treatments, which can be lengthy and complex. By updating administrative
policies, the government could accelerate approvals without compromising legal
standards. To make this a reality, PSAC urges immediate amendments to Republic
Act 11223 (UHC Act), enabling a streamlined approval process.

The council also addressed the challenges faced by the Health Technology
Assessment (HTA) Council, which plays a vital role in reviewing new medicines.
With a staff of only 30, the HTA Council is struggling to meet demand. PSAC
recommends expanding the number of assessors to boost productivity, bringing the
council in line with international benchmarks. Additionally, targeted training
programs would equip HTA assessors with the skills needed to keep pace with
rising demands for swift decision-making.

Paolo F. Borromeo, PSAC Health Sector Lead and President and CEO of Ayala
Healthcare Holdings, Inc. (AC Health), shared, “Our final PSAC Health meeting of
the year with President Marcos Jr. focused on expanding the radiologic
technologist workforce, accelerating PhilHealth’s coverage for priority
diseases, and digitizing services.”

“Ensuring better access to essential medicines remains a top priority as we move
into the new year. I am grateful to our partners in government and my PSAC
colleagues for their dedication to advancing affordable, quality healthcare for
all Filipinos,” added Borromeo.

Through these recommendations and continued collaboration with government
agencies, PSAC is committed to advancing reforms that make essential medicines
and quality healthcare more accessible to Filipinos.

Excerpts from SMA's message at SuperDuperCon, November 11, 2024


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Every month I meet with new and old team members from all levels, and they
always ask me for simple advice that I can give them about their lives and
careers. I’ve thought long and hard about what really matters and I’ve never
been able to give the right answer until now.

I’ve been asking myself: what is the core issue of life? Then it dawned on me:
after reading several books, I read one called Good Energy and I connected
health and business.

The book talks about how ALL our ailments, from a toothache to brain cancer,
comes from one source: what we put into our bodies and how we convert that to
energy (metabolism). You don’t lose energy because you age, you lose energy
because you lose muscle and metabolism. Get it back or better don’t lose it to
begin with.

The book gives you six simple principles of Good Energy eating:

 1. Our bodies are built entirely of food (we don’t arise from thin air, we
    arise from food)
 2. Match what you eat with what your 37 trillion cells need (eat high-quality,
    unprocessed food)
 3. Food is how you communicate with your body (foods are the messages we choose
    to send to motivate and tell our cells what to do)
 4. Food cravings mean your cells are confused (stick to unprocessed food and
    your cravings will disappear quickly)
 5. Ignore diets and focus on unprocessed food (unprocessed, clean, natural food
    is always the right diet for you)
 6. Eat mindfully and find awe in food (slow down, take your time, and enjoy
    every bite in appreciation of the magic of food)

And five “check engine” alerts for your own body:

 1. Glucose (sugar is the worst kind of Bad Energy)
 2. The size of your waistline (excess energy going to places it shouldn’t)
 3. Cholesterol
 4. Triglycerides (too much sugar, refined carbs, and/or alcohol)
 5. Blood pressure (most lethal but also the most preventable)

So what we eat either gives us Good Energy or Bad Energy. What you eat is what
gives you good or bad energy. It’s how you communicate with your body. You are
telling your body how to behave by the things you put in it (here, eat this
pizza and tell your glucose to go up). Think of your body like a car, which
performs differently depending on what kind of fuel you use. It needs to be
regularly maintained and you’ve got your “check engine” alerts. We never put
diesel in car that uses unleaded, but we don’t think twice about putting
processed junk in our own bodies. We need Good Energy.

When I used to play golf, I noticed that when I would play with people much
better than me, my game would improve. The same thing applies to your mind. When
you have positive people around you, they influence you to optimize your system.
The minute you have a bad system it affects your mind, mood, and ability to
perform, and it slowly chips away at your health.

Understanding your body is not that difficult for as long as you learn how to
connect the dots. Understand the most important things about your health, your
life, your family, and your work—and understand how they all connect.

And then coincidentally, as I was reading the book, I stumbled across this
quote! 

“The hallmark of expertise is no longer how much you know. It's how well you
synthesize. Information scarcity rewarded knowledge acquisition. Information
abundance requires pattern recognition. It's not enough to collect facts. The
future belongs to those who connect dots.” –Adam Grant

So to connect the dots and summarize, here are eight learnings that worked for
me.

1. Be grateful every morning.
The minute you’re grateful for what you have, no matter what, you start off your
day with a full tank of high-octane gasoline—with Good Energy. And you infect
the people around you with this Good Energy.

2. Health is often the core of all problems.
Good health is where it all starts. “You are what you eat” may sound basic, but
it’s foundational. The healthier we are, the better we lead. Health impacts
mood, focus, and productivity—when you feel good, you have the energy and
clarity to handle challenges and make better decisions.

3. You are what you eat.
Our ailments come from one source: what we put into our bodies and how we
convert that to energy (metabolism). So it’s not just what we eat but how we
convert that food into either Good or Bad Energy. If we have good eating,
sleeping, and moving patterns, then we turn our food into Good Energy.

4. You have control of your life.
This is one of the best pieces of advice I can give to anyone. Building good
habits that bring out the best in us, including understanding our own health,
learning how it works, and recognizing what it needs puts everything under our
control.

5. Free yourself from fear.
A lot of that is what you eat, because you feel better, your mind is clearer,
you push yourself more. This gives you the confidence to keep going until you
start influencing other people at home or at work. And like a circle, it all
comes back to you.

6. Surround yourself with positive people.
Being around positive people influences you to optimize your system. They feed
your Good Energy in the same way that negative people feed your Bad Energy. It’s
all under your control.

7. Always solve the core of the problem
A good leader has to be able to filter through a lot of information and identify
what truly matters. We need to simplify everything and get to the core of a
problem to see the solution clearly, even when it's in the middle of a complex
mess of information.

8. Connect the dots.
Think of the dots as the few things that really matter in a problem that will
help resolve all if not most of the issues you face at home and at work. This
includes mental and emotional problems.

Connect the dots and take charge of your life!


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Watch SMA's entire message below:

Franz de la Fuente

LIMA Tower One, a PEZA-registered, BERDE-Certified and WELL pre-certified office
building, is the first office of its kind in Batangas. Located in the thriving
business district of Biz Hub at LIMA Estate in Lipa-Malvar, Batangas, it is set
to accelerate the growth of the IT-BPM industry in the province.LIMA Tower One,
Batangas' first premium office building, has reached a remarkable milestone,
securing the second-largest office space take-up nationwide for the third
quarter of 2024. According to the CBRE Q3 2024 Market Report, Conduent
Incorporated, a global leader in business process services, has leased 9,000
square meters of office space, cementing LIMA Tower One’s role as a hub for
IT-BPM operations in Southern Luzon.

Conduent, known for its expertise in customer experience management, healthcare
claims processing, and digital business solutions, serves diverse industries
including automotive, banking, and public sector services. Its decision to
expand operations at LIMA Tower One highlights Batangas’ rising prominence as a
premier business location outside Metro Manila. This lease represents 24% of all
provincial office take-ups for Q3 2024, showcasing the growing preference for
high-quality office spaces in well-connected provincial locations.

The CBRE report underscores Batangas' emergence as a key player in the
decentralization of the IT-BPM industry. Southern Luzon’s strategic location,
robust infrastructure, and competitive workforce have positioned it as a prime
destination for industry growth. As the country’s IT-BPM sector anticipates
generating 1 million new jobs by 2028, Batangas is expected to capture a
significant share of this demand, further driving the region's economic
progress.

Conduent Incorporated, a global leader in business process services, has leased
9,000 square meters of office space, cementing LIMA Tower One’s role as a hub
for IT-BPM operations in Southern LuzonA Vision for Sustainable Growth
LIMA Tower One is part of the Biz Hub at LIMA Estate, a unique mixed-use
development that integrates industrial, commercial, and lifestyle components.
This innovative approach reflects Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates’
commitment to building sustainable, integrated ecosystems that go beyond being
business addresses. Featuring lifestyle amenities such as The Outlets at Lipa,
LIMA Exchange, residential communities, and the Aboitiz Pitch, LIMA Estate
offers a vibrant environment that fosters productivity and quality of life.

As LIMA Tower One nears full occupancy, Aboitiz InfraCapital is already laying
the groundwork for LIMA Tower Two, designed to meet the sustained demand for
premium office spaces. This upcoming development will prioritize wellness and
sustainability, aligning with Aboitiz InfraCapital’s holistic vision for modern
business hubs.

A Growing Community of Global Players
LIMA Estate’s appeal has already drawn major industry players, including
Accenture, which recently chose Biz Hub for its first satellite office in
Batangas. Scheduled to launch by Q4 2024, this innovative workspace will serve
as a hub for IT-BPM operations, further reinforcing Batangas’ position as a key
location for global businesses.

The strong demand for office spaces within LIMA Tower One and the anticipated
launch of LIMA Tower Two reflect the broader momentum in Batangas’
transformation into a premier business destination. These advancements not only
attract high-value industries but also contribute to job creation, economic
development, and the region's overall progress.

For leasing inquiries or more information about LIMA Tower One, contact Aboitiz
InfraCapital Economic Estates at sales.leasing@aboitiz.com or visit 
www.aboitizeconomicestates.com [http://www.aboitizeconomicestates.com].

With a Statistics degree as her foundation, Kath Pedriña-Agarano, AEV’s People
Analytics Officer, built a dynamic career that spanned market research, data
quality, and fintech. Her unique perspective, shaped by both analytical
expertise and a personal appreciation for the impact of employee benefits,
became the driving force behind her work.
By turning data into meaningful insights, Kath reveals the human stories behind
the numbers and creates solutions that truly connect with people. Her journey is
a powerful reminder that true success lies not only in technical expertise but
in understanding and addressing the needs that drive us all.

Let’s discover Kath's powerful GT story and learn how empathy and innovation can
transform a career and create meaningful change.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hello. I am Kath Pedriña-Agarano.

Before joining AEV, I was like most employees—I loved taking advantage of the
amazing benefits offered, from the health perks to the professional development
opportunities. But I only saw it from the perspective of an end user. At that
time, I never thought  that I would be joining a Human Resource team. I do not
have a background in Psychology or Human Resource Management that may land me in
an HR Role.

As a Statistics graduate, I pursued job positions related to Market Research and
Data Quality Control, even land in a Customer Experience and Operations Lead of
a FinTech Company. I was nervous at first since I do not have formal training in
finance or banking. But that leap taught me to go out of my comfort zone to
explore and try new things.

From then on, I was always open to new challenges and opportunities as a career.
In my mind, as long as there is data, I can work on it. Fortunately data is
becoming a big thing and businesses are starting to evolve to digitalization so
I am so positive that there is always a job for me.

But then 2020 happened. Pandemic happened.

Suddenly jobs are not as secured as before. There are lots of uncertainties
because no one knows when it will end. Just before the pandemic, I resigned
because I wanted to further my studies and earn a degree in Data Science. But it
did not go as planned. So I found myself unemployed. For the first time in 7
years. And it was during the time of great uncertainty, I do not have corporate
benefits that I may use in case of emergency. I do not have a company that will
check on me and my family. I have never been more anxious. Thank God, no one in
our family needed medical support that time.

After a few months, most companies have adapted to the new normal- they are
hiring again.

UnionBank offered me a position of a Behavioral Scientist. I was excited with
the opportunity to learn new things again and apply my data analytics skills.
But more than anything, I was happy because I can have medical benefits again.
Plus it was a full work from home set up that time! I enjoyed working side by
side with Data Science teams and other teams from retail and commercial. Shout
out to all colleagues from UB!

I also got the chance to work with Aboitiz SBUs. We’ve had projects with Aboitiz
Land, Aboitiz Power and also, with Group HR from AEV. This is when I first
encountered the A+10 behaviors.

In July 2023, thanks to Fats’ referral, I was hired in AEV as a People Analytics
Officer. I found another purpose. This time, I wanted to understand the process
behind the HR strategies and operations, to contribute in a meaningful way– to
use my data analytics skills to help in data driven decision making, especially
in the benefits and initiatives that employees like me enjoy.

There are a lot of things I appreciate in AEV: the flexible work arrangements,
the competitive medical benefits and the fact that you can convert them!  It was
a game changer for me. But working on MyBen, I realized this is not an easy
“administratively” thing to do. It takes the team a lot of time, careful
considerations and data driven decisions to arrive at what conversions we can
really enjoy.

So last January, it was my first time experiencing converting benefits! I
converted my other benefits to a travel fund. I used this in my trip to Japan
with my parents last March.

My parents were also happy to use medical cards for their free check ups. And
before the year ends, I wanted to use my fitness benefit to keep myself healthy
and ready for more adventures next year!

Health is wealth so I make sure to avail the medical benefits our company
offers- optical allowance to buy my new glasses, dental, clinic visits, free
medicines from Mercury. On the 28th, I am scheduled to have my executive check
up.

Nurturing not just our physical body but also our minds, People team and other
CSU also works hard to provide relevant trainings. In fact, I had the
opportunity to assist in the Leadcon last May, and had the chance to hear and
learn from our Leaders across all SBUs. We have Data Working Group sessions
where we can appreciate how other CSUs and SBUs are also using data for their
operations. Sustainability Trainings, Learning Lunes and Better Us sessions are
also helpful.

Aside from these, what keeps me engaged are the events. In participating in
events like our internal People Connect, Townhalls, SDCs, CSU Caravan, I get the
chance to be informed of what is happening in the company. I also get to know my
colleagues by their faces, their works and their stories through events like
mother & fathers day, women's month and Every Step Counts! I really enjoyed the
Halloween Trick or Treat last Oct 30! Creativity runs in the blood of A-Talents!
AEV CSUs and SBUs decors are soooo nice. 

I can say, I am still an end user of HR initiatives. But I feel like I have a
bigger purpose now.

And together with the whole People team, we commit to continuously review and
implement HR initiatives which are guided with data, to enhance A-People’s
employee experience and support our organizational goals.

It’s been a rewarding transformation, and I’m excited to keep contributing to
the success and holistic well-being of our A-People!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Do you have a GT story that could inspire our A-People? Scan the QR code below
to share yours!

Arean Ronie Carl Llego

Prioritizing Safety in Construction. "Safety begins with awareness," stated
Davao Light Head Engr. Enriczar Tia, addressing 165 construction workers during
the Powerline Safety Awareness session in Brgy. 76-A Bucana. The session aimed
to raise awareness about the dangers of working near power lines and promote
safety to prevent potential hazards.Electricity is one of the common yet serious
risks often overlooked in construction sites. While falling debris or heavy
machinery are obvious visible hazards, electrical dangers are silent, making
them even more dangerous. If ignored, these risks can possibly cause severe
injuries, electrocution, fires, or even fatal construction-related accidents.
Consistently raising awareness and following strict safety protocols and
practices are essential to protect workers and reduce accidents, creating safer
construction environments.

As part of its ongoing commitment to electrical safety amid the active
construction landscape in Davao City, Davao Light and Power Co., Inc. (Davao
Light) and Barangay Cultural Communities and Affairs Division (BCCAD) of the
Local Government of Davao City recently conducted a powerline safety awareness
session for construction workers in Barangay 76-A. This is the second session
held this year, attended by 165 construction workers.

The Head of Davao Light Engr. Enriczar Tia said, "Safety is not just a
priority—it is our foundation. When working near powerlines, each worker must
always work with caution and safety at the top of his mind. Protecting lives
starts with awareness and that is what we always emphasize."

"We are grateful to Davao Light and  BCCAD  for this program as it greatly helps
ensure the safety of our construction workers," said Barangay Captain Robert
Olanolan of 76-A Bucana.

The partnership between Davao Light and BCCAD is driven by a unified dedication
to safeguard the lives of construction workers operating near powerlines.
Jointly, they aim to raise awareness about the dangers of working close to
high-voltage lines, providing critical safety guidelines, and reinforcing
understanding ingrained in daily work activities. This collaboration strengthens
community safety and helps foster a culture where workers and residents alike
understand and respect the risks associated with electrical infrastructure.

Davao Light, an AboitizPower subsidiary, aims to advance business and
communities by providing solutions that pave the way for the safety, security,
and development of its franchise area covering the cities of Davao, Panabo, and
the municipalities of Carmen, Dujali, and Sto. Tomas.

Power

Promoting Safety for Skilled Workers Operating Near Powerlines

Our Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV) Legal Team has once again distinguished itself
in the legal community, securing two prestigious honors at the 2024 Asian Legal
Business (ALB) Philippine Law Awards and being declared as a finalist in two
other categories. Presented by ALB, this recognition celebrates AEV Legal’s
commitment to advancing legal standards and their impactful contributions to the
Aboitiz Group.
For the second consecutive year—and AEV Legal’s sixth win in the category after
having won in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2023—the team proudly took home the
title of Philippine In-House Legal Team of the Year once again this year. This
back-to-back victory reflects the team’s relentless pursuit of delivering
strategic solutions across Aboitiz Group’s diverse sectors.

Representing AEV Legal: Carlos Pagdanganan and Ria Alazas receives 2 awards for
AEV Legal at the ALB Philippine Law Awards 2024Celebrating Success Together: 
AEV, UnionBank, and CitySavings legal teamsBack-to-Back Victory. Connie Chu,
together with Hans Santos, received the award for AEV Legal at the ALB
Philippine Law Awards 2023.AEV Legal in 2024 Driving Innovation, Excellence, and
Transformative Change
AEV Legal has led initiatives that extend across the Aboitiz Group. In driving
federalization, the team, led by Atty. Connie Chu, developed governance
frameworks that seamlessly integrate agility with strategic alignment, fostering
unified growth and responsiveness across subsidiaries. They also serve as a core
knowledge resource, providing dynamic training sessions on ESG, M&A, labor
compliance, and other legal updates to ensure teams are equipped with vital,
up-to-date market trends and regulatory insights.

A key highlight of their work this year was their instrumental role in the
acquisition of Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc., a transaction where they
showcased unparalleled expertise in managing complex cross-border regulatory
landscapes. This deal was awarded M&A Deal of the Year.

AEV Legal and UnionBank Legal with ALB Awards Guest of Honor Former Chief
Justice Diosdado PeraltaIn addition to these awards, the team was also
recognized as a finalist in two other notable categories: Innovative In-House
Team of the Year (which Union Bank of the Philippines won) and Debt Market Deal
of the Year for their outstanding work on the Coca-Cola acquisition financing
through a multi-billion dollar financing program involving multi-tranche bonds
issuance and a term loan facility with leading Philippine banks.

> Our team is driven to being a solutions-based strategic partner to the business
committed to legal excellence — whether through enhancing daily tasks with AI
tools, strengthening Group governance, or driving efficient deal execution. We
are grateful for the trust and support from our principals and our colleagues
across the Group. This recognition inspires us to continuously transform and
innovate in line with the Group’s development.

– Connie Chu, Chief Legal and Compliance Officer, AEV
The 9th Annual ALB Philippine Law Awards, organized by ALB, a division of
Thomson Reuters, celebrates the resilience, and achievements of the legal
profession in the Asia-Pacific region. ALB, renowned for its trusted and
authoritative insights, plays a crucial role in connecting legal professionals
across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, providing a platform that highlights
excellence, fosters collaboration, and drives innovation in the legal industry.

These wins spotlight AEV Legal as a pioneering force in the Philippine and
Asia-Pacific legal landscape. They reflect a visionary team that emulates the
Aboitiz Group’s values of integrity and innovation, driving transformative
change across the industry. With bold leadership and a forward-looking approach,
this dynamic team empowers growth and sparks progress throughout the legal
field—an impact the Aboitiz Group is proud to celebrate.

Corporate Center

AEV Legal’s Winning Streak Continues At The 2024 Asian Legal Business Awards

by Fermin Edillon and Jade Hazel Chiu

Davao Light overall residential electricity rate increased by PHP0.6626 per
kilowatt hour (kWh) this November, increasing the rate to PHP9.1101/kWh from
PHP8.4475/kWh last October. This rate applies to bills received from November 11
to December 11.

The rate increase is attributed to the high electricity prices in the Philippine
Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) in Mindanao, a venue for trading
electricity as a commodity, and where Davao Light sources a part of its power
requirement.

A household consuming an average of 200 kWh monthly will experience a PHP132.52
increase from last month’s bill.

“Due to the inevitable fluctuations in the generation charges, we now experience
a higher total electricity rate. Despite this, we remain committed to
transparency and strive to provide our customers with a reasonable cost of
power,” said Davao Light Reputation Enhancement Department Head Fermin Edillon.
He also highlighted that the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC)-approved
distribution rate for Davao Light has remained unchanged since 2013.

As generation rates vary, consumers can effectively manage their electricity
bills by using energy wisely. Like this Christmas season, households can
decrease energy costs by opting for non-electrical decorations such as parols
and ornaments. Solar-powered or battery-operated lights are also practical
choices, bringing festive cheer without adding to the electric bill.

Davao Light aims to provide its customers with a front-seat vantage point
regarding its services, including the sourcing and pricing of its electricity.
This is in line with the mission of the company to deliver at the most
reasonable cost, safe and reliable electric service to the people and businesses
it serves.

Davao Light Shares Energy Saving Tips For The Holidays With Nov 2024 Rate Hike

Aboitiz Family & Firm Educational Series


The Return of Great Powers: Russia, China, and the Next World War 
By Jim Sciutto


Enrique Aboitiz Mendieta

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The return is evolving very quickly.
Right after you read it, the situation will have changed. 



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Listen to a sample of this book on Audible.
[https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Return-of-Great-Powers-Audiobook/B0CDN3VMR1]
Disclaimer: The Aboitiz Eyes team is not affiliated with any party or product
mentioned in this content and does not receive any compensation or financial
benefit from the inclusion of product links. The links provided are for
informational purposes only and are not endorsements.

The Return Of Great Powers

Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC) has been awarded the “Most Innovative Infrastructure
Investment Company in the Philippines” in 2024 by UK-based International Finance
Awards (IFA).

Cited by the IFA for its “forward-thinking approach and focus on long-term
impact,” AIC is driven by its commitment to building transformative and
sustainable infrastructure solutions across its four business verticals spanning
Economic Estates, Water, Digital Infrastructure, and Transport and Mobility. 

This is the second IFA recognition for AIC this year alone, following the Best
PPP project in the Philippines conferred to one of its operating water business
units Apo Agua Infrastructura, for the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project
(DCBWSP). It was recognized for its innovations in engineering and project
management to provide greater water quality and accessibility to the people of
Davao City.

> We are proud that AIC and our business units are consistently recognized for
pioneering infrastructure projects with positive public impact, innovative
designs, and strong commitment to sustainability. This is a testament to the
hard work, dedication, and innovative spirit of the men and women behind AIC who
are passionate about building Transformative Infrastructure Ecosystems.

–Cosette V. Canilao, President and CEO, AIC 
Since it was founded in 2015, AIC has successfully established its presence
across its four business pillars and has been making strides in optimizing its
operating assets. As of the third quarter of 2024, AIC’s managed asset base has
already reached P104 billion, indicating its operational scale and the results
of continued focus on expanding core assets.

Last October 2024, AIC completed the full acquisition of Mactan-Cebu
International Airport, enhancing its operational capabilities and passenger
experience standards as the country’s second-busiest gateway. Additionally, AIC
was awarded the concession to upgrade, operate, and maintain Laguindingan
International Airport, further supporting regional growth and connectivity in
Northern Mindanao.

Under Economic Estates, AIC has expanded into Central Luzon with TARI Estate,
marking a significant step toward a nationwide footprint with sustainable,
strategically located industrial-anchored estates. Meanwhile, Unity Digital
Infrastructure, Inc., AIC's digital infrastructure unit and a joint venture with
leading global private markets firm Partners Group, continues to grow its tower
portfolio and co-location sites, bridging the connectivity gap and advancing
digital inclusion across the country.

Aboitiz InfraCapital named PH's Most Innovative Infrastructure Investment Firm

Jomes Kemuel Ibanez

> Project Pink gave us valuable insights into breast cancer, including its
progression, risk factors, and management strategies. It empowered us to take
responsibility for our health.

–Jo An T. Ranola, Principal, North City Central School
CitySavings, an active partner in education, continues to prioritize the
well-being of teachers as the focus of its corporate social responsibility (CSR)
initiatives.

CitySavings implemented Project Pink, its flagship health and wellness program
on breast cancer awareness, last October 19 at the North City Central School in
Toledo City, Cebu. More than 200 teaching and non-teaching personnel from the
Division of Toledo City participated in the session, which allowed them to gain
factual information and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection
of breast cancer.

TEACHERS’ HEALTH AND WELLNESS: (Left) Dr. Mei Ye S. Alguire, FPOGS, resource
speaker of CitySavings’ Project Pink, shares the importance of understanding,
prevention, and support for breast cancer; (Right) More than 200 teaching and
non-teaching personnel from the Toledo City Division attend the session at North
City Central SchoolA free medical mission on breast check-up and pap smear
screening was also conducted in collaboration with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation,
Inc. - Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center (RAFI - EJACC) and volunteer doctors
from Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center.

The forum emphasized the significance of early detection, regular screenings,
and taking proactive steps for your health. Resource speaker Dr. Mei Ye S.
Alguire, FPOGS shared that the Philippines has been identified as one of the
countries having the highest incidence rate of breast cancer in Asia, with one
out of 13 Filipinas developing breast cancer in their lifetime.

“Let us break the cycle of fear about breast cancer through awareness, correct
information, and appropriate treatment. Know your body, make breast self-exam a
routine of your health care, and seek professional advice,” added Dr. Alguire on
the importance of understanding, prevention, and support for breast cancer.

“Project Pink is a CitySavings CSR initiative that promotes the health and
wellness of our teachers. As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we
encourage everyone to prioritize self-care,” said CitySavings Regional Sales
Head for Central Visayas Ramnyl Cahate.

“We would like to thank CitySavings and its partners for organizing a medical
mission and an informative session for our teachers on breast cancer. Project
Pink gave us valuable insights into breast cancer, including its progression,
risk factors, and management strategies. It empowered us to take responsibility
for our health,” said North City Central School Principal Jo An T. Ranola.

CitySavings is committed to educating, empowering, and engaging our educators
through various health and wellness programs. This supports the Department of
Education’s (DepEd) efforts to uplift, upskill, and strengthen teacher support.

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