Aug 6, 2026

Coins.ph Brings Next-Gen ‘Pay, Move, Trade’ Infrastructure to Businesses Nationwide

MANILA, Philippines – Coins.ph, the Philippines’ largest digital asset exchange and one of the fastest-growing mobile wallets in the country, is bringing its advanced suite of payments and trading infrastructure directly to enterprise ecosystems in key urban cities nationwide. 


Serving as a key operational enabler for modern businesses, Coins’s payment solutions allow enterprises to seamlessly utilize highly efficient blockchain and fiat rails. Recognizing the rapid economic expansion across regional hubs, Coins.ph offers a robust, unified infrastructure layer engineered to streamline how both enterprises and SMEs can optimize their operations across three distinct pillars: Pay, Move, and Trade. 


PAY: Driving Local Conversion and Frictionless Inflows 

To help businesses capture local consumer markets, Coins.ph empowers merchants with a unified checkout architecture supporting QRPh and WebPay integrations. Furthermore, an automated Disbursement module enables instant payouts and seamless real-time payment reconciliation across domestic networks. 

  • QRPh Crypto Payments: QRPh crypto payments that live directly inside the merchant's own app.
  • QRPh Fiat Payments: QRPh payments in Philippine Pesos. 
  • WebPay: Accept online, in-store, and crypto payments through hosted or API-based checkouts.
  • Disbursement: Real-time domestic batch transfers and payroll payouts to over 120 banks and e-wallets via InstaPay and PESONet. 

MOVE: Streamlined Local Payouts and Settlement Readiness 

Addressing the inherent friction of traditional settlement systems, Coins.ph highlighted its digital asset infrastructure built to optimize liquidity movement. By utilizing stablecoin technology and leveraging Coins’ positioning as a regulated platform, businesses can realize accelerated settlement times from an average of 3-5 days into minutes. 

This deployment actively serves the country's expanding target addressable market of 1.5 million remote freelancers and digital professionals who depend on efficient international client inflows. The platform showcased its operational readiness to support enterprises looking to connect their digital asset ecosystems directly onto fast, secure, same-day local payment rails. 

  • Cross-border Payments: International payout delivery over global rails, allowing stablecoin pre-funding and local currency delivery upon arrival. 
  • Corridor Readiness: Live connection to local national rails like InstaPay/PESONet (Philippines). 

TRADE: Institutional Liquidity and Scale on Demand 

For high-volume enterprises requiring complete price certainty, Coins.ph provides institutional-grade trading mechanisms. The Trade ecosystem features deep-liquidity tools and fixed spreads built specifically for treasuries, funds, and institutional trading desks. 

  • Ramp: A supplementary fiat deposit and withdrawal channel for exchanges, handling compliance, KYC, and AML directly inside third-party apps. 
  • Order Book: High-volume live spot trading with tight spreads and deep liquidity, offering volume-based tiered VIP pricing. 
 "At Coins.ph, we believe the real power of blockchain shows up leveraging the utility aspect to enable cheaper faster transactions," said Amira Alawi, Global Marketing Director at Coins.ph. "When you stop wasting days waiting for cross-border funds to clear, when you don’t have to manually sort through transactions, crypto moves out of the speculation sandbox into real-world utility. The moment backend technology protects a business's bottom line and removes that daily friction, mass adoption becomes a natural progression— every peso saved is money you can invest back into your company and on scaling." 

About Coins 

Coins is building the next generation of global money movement. Through a single platform, businesses and consumers can make payments, move money across borders, convert currencies, access digital assets, and tap into a growing suite of financial services — from cards and credit to investments and treasury. By combining stablecoin-powered settlement with local payment rails, Coins makes money move faster, at lower cost, and with 24/7/365 availability.

Jun 3, 2026

CBS China Bank Savings Sustains Growth Momentum in Q1 2026


CBS China Bank Savings sustained its growth momentum in the first quarter of 2026,posting a net income of P631.2 million, up 11.5% year-on-year (YoY), driven by continued strength across its core businesses.  

Net interest income increased by 20.4% YoY to P2.8 billion, supported by sustained growth in the Bank’s lending business.  

Inauguration and Blessing of the CBS Ipil Branch last April 7, 2026. In Photo (from left to right): CBS HR Division
Deputy Head Rudcen Mark M. Iglesia, Gaisano Grand Mall General Manager Arvin Manco, CBS Retail Banking
Group Head Jan Nikolai M. Lim, Ferndale International School Owner Patricia Alvarez, CBS Retail Banking Group
Area Head-Mindanao Jennifer De Leon, and CBS Business Manager-Ipil Zamboanga Jessie Jane Zamoras.

Total assets stood at P217.3 billion, backed by a growing customer base of more than one million.  Net loans expanded by 11.5% YoY to P155.5 billion, driven mainly by the continued growth of the Bank’s salary loan and business loan segments. Deposits likewise increased by 12.0% to P191.4 billion, reinforcing the Bank’s liquidity position and funding stability.  

Inauguration and Blessing of the CBS Isulan Branch last April 14, 2026. In Photo (from left to right): CBS HR Division
Deputy Head Rudcen Mark M. Iglesia, CBS Retail Banking Group Head Jan Nikolai M. Lim, Aloevera Building Owner Julieta Aloevera, CBS Retail Banking Group Area Head-Mindanao Jennifer De Leon, and CBS Business Manager-Sultan Kudarat Ryan Jay Z. Labucana.

CBS President James Christian T. Dee is confident in the bank’s ability to sustain the momentum. “CBS prides itself in maintaining strong relationships with its customers, and they have rewarded the Bank with loyalty. There is no substitute for trust and dependability, and the Bank provides that in spades whatever the circumstance.”  

Asset quality remained stable, with an NPL ratio of 2.9%. The Bank's NPLs continue to be adequately covered by loan-loss allowances, reflecting CBS' conservative provisioning stance. 

 
Blessing and Inauguration of the CBS Lapu-Lapu Branch last April 29, 2026. In Photo (from left to right): CBS HR
Division Deputy Head Rudcen Mark M. Iglesia, Legal Director of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) Atty.
Francis Ocampo and his wife Analisa C. Ocampo, Aboitiz Economic Estates Head of Cebu Operations Aldwin
Dumago, CBS Retail Banking Group Head Jan Nikolai M. Lim, CBS Central and Eastern Visayas Area Head Pia
Monica Alturas, Cebu Power/ITC Experts, Inc. Representative Engr. Wilfredo P. Canizares and wife Trinidad
Canizares, MEPZCEM Executive Director Delia Suplig, Lapu-Lapu City Administrator Atty. Danilo Almendras, and
MB Tavern Owner Marlene Effelberger

CBS Chairman Ricardo R. Chua says the youth and vigor of the CBS organization is quite exciting, and he expects the bank to continue outperforming economic conditions. “These are interesting times, but a young bank like CBS, can be more agile and can adapt to the changing environment faster. Already CBS is establishing itself in the thrift banking space as a significant player. Thanks to its mix of affordable and readily available loan products, and its competent and driven workforce which is in tune with the needs of the Bank's target market.” CBS continues to strengthen its nationwide presence and customer reach through its network of 175 branches, 34 APD lending centers, and 73 APD branch-lite units, supported by more than 3,000 employees.  As part of its ongoing expansion strategy, the Bank converted 10 branch-lite units into full-service branches in April 2026 and is set to open an additional five branches before the end of the second quarter, bringing its total branch network to 190 branches. CBS also continues to enhance its digital capabilities as part of its broader transformation initiatives.  

CBS Senior Vice President and Retail Banking Group Head Jan Nikolai M. Lim is leading the branch expansion of CBS nationwide. Lim commented on the drive behind the expansion amidst current economic uncertainties. “We at CBS are eager to provide our ‘Easy Banking’ services nationwide, and that is why we continue to expand our branch network despite accelerating inflation. We are confident in the resilience of the Philippine economy, and we recognize the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Filipino entrepreneur will require financial support from the banking sector to ensure sustainability as well as prosperity for their endeavors.”  

As it moves through the rest of 2026, CBS remains focused on expanding higher-yielding loan segments, growing its CASA base, deepening customer relationships, and sustaining operational efficiency through continued investments in both physical and digital capabilities. 

May 13, 2026

PBA legend Jojo Lastimosa’s CDO Homecoming Powers Grassroots Ball Forward

 The TNT Tropang 5G team manager plus other hoop stars brings the Jolas Cup Back to Cagayan de Oro

For love of the game, PLDT Home and TNT Tropang 5G bring fans closer to the action. Basketball legend Jojo Lastimosa and stars Poy Erram, Rey Nambatac, and Glenn Khobuntin unite on stage with the lucky winners of their hand-signed TNT jerseys.


The Philippines continues to produce world-class basketball talent – but as PBA legend and current TNT Tropang 5G team manager Jojo Lastimosa has long believed, talent alone isn’t enough without opportunity. For young athletes, sports can open doors – but only when the right support systems are in place. This is where connectivity, community, and committed partners like PLDT Home play a crucial role. 

Since launching the Jolas Cup in 2004, Lastimosa has championed grassroots basketball as a way to empower the youth. In 2026, that mission was strengthened by PLDT Home’s support, as the tournament returned to Cagayan de Oro – bringing not just competition but also access, visibility, and opportunity for the next generation. 
 
Kicked off last April 22 at the Xavier Ateneo Sports Centre, Jolas Cup 2026 gathered top teams from schools and barangays across the city, transforming the venue into a dynamic space where talent met opportunity. The tournament aimed to bring together young athletes from Cagayan de Oro and nearby areas, competing in six divisions: 12U, 14U, 16U, 18U, 22U men’s, and 22U women’s. It concludes on May 16 with the championship games of all six divisions. 

PLDT Home Fiber was among the brands powering the tournament opening ceremonies, as players and attendees stayed connected throughout the event – from real-time updates to digital engagement that extended the reach of the tournament beyond the court. 

The opening ceremonies were led by Lastimosa, alongside fellow TNT Tropang 5G players who share roots in Mindanao, including Poy Erram, Rey Nambatac, and Glenn Khobuntin. Their presence reinforced the importance of giving back – made even more impactful through platforms like the Jolas Cup supported by partners who share the same vision. 

“Malipayon gyud ko nga nakabalik ko diri sa Cagayan de Oro aron maghatag og oportunidad sa mga batan-on. Mao ni ang sinugdanan sa daghan kaayo’ng damgo (I’m truly happy to be back in Cagayan de Oro to give young players opportunities. This is where many dreams begin),” said Lastimosa.

TNT Tropang 5G players join the Jolas Cup opening in Cagayan de Oro, showing support for young athletes and championing opportunities for the next generation of hoopers.


To help kickstart the young athletes with their dreams, PLDT Home Fiber shall award all champion teams with a Fiber Plan 1699 for one year. “We want to ensure they will experience meaningful connections even off the court,” Lastimosa said.

Local fans share a lighthearted moment with PBA legend Jojo Lastimosa during the PLDT Home Fiber Fastbreak event.



Beyond the games, PLDT Home brought the tournament experience closer to the community through branded activations, including interactive booths and connectivity zones that allowed fans and families to engage with the event in real time. These initiatives highlighted how reliable internet access plays an increasingly important role in sports development – whether it’s accessing training content, sharing game highlights, or staying connected to wider opportunities. 

For Lastimosa, that connection is essential to building the future of Philippine basketball. “Importante kaayo nga konektado ang kabatan-onan—dili lang sa internet, kundi sa ilang mga pangandoy ug oportunidad (It’s important for the youth to stay connected—not just to the internet, but to their dreams and opportunities),” he said. 

Players echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how meaningful it is to return home and inspire the next generation – now with stronger platforms and support systems behind them.

TNT Tropang 5G stars Rey Nambatac, Poy Erram, and Glenn Khobuntin share hands-on tips and mentorship with Cagayan de Oro's promising young players


By supporting initiatives like the Jolas Cup, PLDT Home continues to go beyond providing connectivity – actively supporting communities, enabling dreams, and helping young dreamers stay connected to what matters most starting from the home. 
 
“By bridging passion and opportunity, the brand plays a vital role in shaping not just better players, but stronger futures,” said PLDT Home First Vice President for Acquisition Marketing Patrick S. Tang. “No matter where you are in the Philippines and whatever passion you pursue, we’re here for you. Count on our reliable connectivity to give you stronger, more meaningful connections as you start your dreams right at home.” 
 
From sports to school work and more, fire up your family’s passion at home with fast and reliable internet connectivity by PLDT Home Fiber. Visit pldthome.com to know more about these amazing Fiber deals available for Plan 999 and up. 

Apply for Fiber Unli All 1399 from May 1 to May 31, 2026 and enjoy free installation (save P3,600), free speedboost up to 200 Mbps, unli entertainment on Cignal, and a chance to win free Fiber Broadband for Life! Apply until June 30, 2026 to avail up to P41,000 off on Samsung TVs and other devices as an exclusive offer.

Apr 30, 2026

Hope for Every Heart: Safer, Modern Treatments with AHVC Singapore

 A new wave of hope is reaching families in Mindanao—especially among Kagay-anons facing heart disease. As it continues to be the leading cause of death in the Philippines, many are now exploring better, less invasive treatment options beyond the traditional open-heart surgery. Today, the question is no longer just where to have surgery—but whether surgery is even needed at all. 


Moving Beyond “Inoperable” 

In the past, elderly patients or those considered high-risk were often told that surgery was no longer an option. But times have changed. With modern medical advancements, minimally invasive heart procedures are now giving patients a second chance at life—without going through major surgery. These treatments use catheter-based techniques, meaning no large incisions, less pain, and faster recovery. What used to require open-heart surgery can now often be done in a much safer and simpler way—even for older patients. 

The Silent Dangers We Often Miss 

Two heart conditions are becoming a growing concern, yet many people are still unaware of them: valve disease and atrial fibrillation (AF). Valve disease, when left untreated, can be life-threatening. But today, procedures like TAVI (a minimally invasive valve replacement) allow doctors to treat this condition without opening the chest. Atrial fibrillation, on the other hand, is a common heart rhythm problem—especially among older adults. Many don’t even know they have it, yet it significantly increases the risk of stroke. 

The good news? Early detection and modern treatments can prevent complications. In fact, centers like Asian Heart & Vascular Centre (AHVC) offer “one-stop” procedures that can correct heart rhythm and reduce stroke risk—sometimes even without the need for lifelong medication. 

Why Some Families Look Abroad 


Healthcare in the Philippines continues to improve, but for more complex heart conditions, some patients choose to seek specialized care abroad—especially in places known for advanced cardiovascular treatment. 

Singapore has become a trusted destination for many. With its strong medical system, advanced technology, and highly trained specialists, it offers options that may not always be readily available locally. Through its network of leading hospitals, Asian Heart & Vascular Centre (AHVC) provides access to world-class facilities—ensuring patients receive quality care, modern treatment, and a smoother recovery journey. 

A More Convenient, “One-Stop” Approach 

One of the advantages of seeking care in leading centers abroad is the efficiency. From diagnosis to treatment, everything can be done in a coordinated and streamlined way. At Asian Heart & Vascular Centre (AHVC), patients can undergo advanced tests like cardiac MRI or CT scans and proceed to treatment within a short timeframe—saving both time and energy, especially for those traveling from abroad. Their expertise includes: minimally invasive heart procedures, advanced treatment for irregular heart rhythms, and  preventive screenings for early detection.

Giving Families More Choices 

At the end of the day, it’s all about giving patients and families more options. By connecting with communities like Cagayan de Oro, Asian Heart & Vascular Centre (AHVC) helps ensure that when local options have been explored—or when a second opinion is needed—families have access to trusted, advanced care. 

Because when it comes to matters of the heart, every life deserves the best possible chance.



Jul 17, 2025

Fun for Every Kagay-anon: Discover Free Culinary Games for Kids (and Kids-at-Heart!)

As someone who grew up in Cagayan de Oro, I’ve always been drawn to two things: good food and simple joys. Whether it was a plate of sikwate and puto or biko on a rainy afternoon or helping my Nanay in the kitchen during special celebrations, food has always been a part of my fondest memories. That’s why I got excited when I discovered something worth sharing with all of you, especially the parents, teachers, and fellow foodies in our city. 

I recently came across CulinarySchools.org, and what caught my attention was their collection of free culinary-themed online games designed for kids—but honestly, some of them are fun even for us adults! If you’re looking for an educational and entertaining way to pass the time or give your kids a screen-time activity that’s not all just cartoons, this is worth checking out. 

Try “Chef Slash” – A Cut Above the Rest!

One of the games I personally enjoyed is Chef Slash. It’s a clever puzzle game where you slice food items (like cheese, fish, and vegetables) into equal parts using a limited number of cuts. It may sound easy, but it really makes you think! It’s perfect for developing problem-solving and spatial skills—and yes, it’s a bit addictive in the best way.

This game isn’t just about slicing food; it’s about precision, timing, and logic. Whether you're 8 or 38, it's a fun challenge that keeps you coming back for more.

Enjoy Baking Games


This one made me smile the most. I have been observing my aunt bake cakes, and it looks very tiring, requiring a lot of work. But in Sweety Cooking Chocolate Cake, you get to design your dream cake by choosing cake layers, frosting, and fun decorations. Whether your style is a minimalist chocolate drip or a colorful explosion of sprinkles, this game lets you be as creative as you want, without the cleanup!


Why CDO Families Will Love It?

In a time when many of us are still balancing home life, school, and work (sometimes all at once), it’s refreshing to find a free and safe online resource that encourages creativity and learning. These culinary games can help spark interest in cooking, develop basic motor skills, and even teach kids about following instructions and time management. For teachers here in CDO, these games can be a great supplemental activity during online or blended learning. For parents, it’s a fun alternative to purely entertainment-based screen time. And for us adults who just want a little break? Well, it doesn’t hurt to try designing a virtual donut or two. 

Try It Yourself – It’s Free! 

Whether you're in Bulua, Carmen, Lapasan, or uptown CDO, I invite you to explore these fun games with your family. Visit CulinarySchools.org and pick a few titles to try. You’ll find everything from food-themed puzzles to time-management challenges that are perfect for all ages. Let’s support educational content online, especially those that bring a mix of kalipay (joy), learning, and a sprinkle of culinary flair into our homes. 

Happy playing, and maybe you’ll discover the next little chef in your family!