Globe leaders respond to questions from media attendees during The Blueprint by Globe event, sharing insights on innovation, purposeful connectivity, and inclusive digital transformation. From left to right: Jonathan Cristobal, Marketing Head of Globe Business; KD Dizon, Vice President of Globe Business; Paula Rivera-Castillo, Head of International Business; Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer; Roche Vandenberge, Chief Marketing Officer; Chelo Flores, Director of Marketing Strategic Partnerships; Beverly Robles, Senior Director of Digital Strategy and Channels Activation of Broadband Business; and Anna Aranas-Baldos, Director of Portfolio Management of Globe Prepaid.

The holiday season shines brighter this year as Globe hosted the second installment of The Blueprint by Globe at The Globe Tower in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. With the theme “Lighting Up the Season with Purposeful Connectivity and Meaningful Connections,” the year-end event highlighted how technology, when crafted with genuine intention, can empower, uplift, and bring Filipinos closer together.

More than just celebrating innovation, Globe presented a vision of a digital future built on inclusivity, protection, and community empowerment. The Blueprint by Globe lays out how every product, platform, and service is designed with purpose—creating real impact for individuals, families, businesses, and communities throughout the country.

Purposeful Connectivity for Every Filipino

Globe emphasized its growing ecosystem of solutions that support seamless, secure, and equitable digital access. From advanced 5G coverage and AI-powered experiences to intuitive tools designed for everyday convenience, the company showcased how innovation becomes more meaningful when it prioritizes people.

One highlight was Globe’s push for digital transformation among businesses. Through the Globe API Ecosystem, enterprise partners can access modern, secure authentication capabilities such as the GSMA-certified Number Verification API—opening doors for safer, more seamless customer experiences across various industries.

Globe also introduced Digitest, a digital maturity assessment tool that helps organizations measure their current digital capabilities and map out clear strategies for growth. These tools enable Philippine businesses to scale confidently, strengthen customer trust, and build future-ready operations that benefit entire communities.

Connectivity That Brings Us Closer—Wherever We Are

A key part of the program celebrated how Globe keeps Filipinos connected whether at home or abroad—especially during the holiday season when communication matters most.

Travelers can enjoy GoRoam, which allows them to “roam like a local” while abroad. Overseas Filipino Workers, on the other hand, can stay close to their families through the affordable Roam Kabayan 3-in-1 pack, offering call, text, and data bundles designed for cost-efficient communication.

At home, Globe At Home continues to elevate digital living through AI-powered partnerships that provide secure and seamless online experiences for the whole family.

Globe also highlighted the strength of its 5G network, recognized as the widest in the Philippines by Ookla. With faster streaming, smoother gaming, clearer calls, and real-time content creation, the company empowers young Filipinos to stay productive and expressive wherever they go. Through offers like Go5G TURBO 50 and Go+ 99 plus AI, Globe gives hyper-connected youth access to tools that enhance learning, creativity, and everyday entertainment.

Programs that Inspire Meaningful Connections

Beyond connectivity, Globe shared stories that reflect its purpose-driven mission to empower communities. This includes initiatives that support families, students, entrepreneurs, and changemakers across the country.

The Globe Student Program, developed with Filipino youth leaders, provides mentorship, digital literacy workshops, and real-world opportunities to over 30 million students nationwide. It equips young Filipinos with the confidence and skills needed to become innovators and community builders.

Meanwhile, the Globe Caravan brings essential digital knowledge directly to families and aspiring social entrepreneurs in underrepresented communities. Through hands-on sessions, participants learn how technology can open doors to livelihood opportunities and personal growth.

Globe also expressed pride in supporting the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025, which will be hosted for the first time by the Philippines. With strong connectivity for delegates and heartfelt engagement for fans, Globe champions Filipino athletes while uniting communities in celebration of sportsmanship and national pride.

Globe of Good: Compassion in Action

The event concluded with Globe of Good, a platform that turns everyday digital activities into meaningful acts of kindness. Through the GlobeOne app, customers can donate their Rewards points to support causes such as disaster relief, hunger alleviation, education, environmental protection, animal welfare, and more.

Over 300,000 Globe customers have already joined this movement, contributing over ₱5 million in donations to partner NGOs—proving that even small actions can create life-changing impact.

Prepaid subscribers can also participate in GoGIVE, which automatically sends “hearts” to chosen causes every time they use mobile data. This year’s G-Gantic Goals campaign further united more than 150,000 customers in supporting various advocacies, from feeding rescued animals to providing digital tools for public school students.

Globe of Good beautifully encapsulates the heart of The Blueprint: progress that shines brightest when powered by compassion and collective effort.

A Season Lit by Purpose and Connection

“As we celebrate this holiday season, The Blueprint by Globe highlights how technology, when purposefully designed, can spark meaningful connections and empower communities,” said Darius Delgado, Chief Commercial Officer at Globe. “We believe in purposeful connectivity—where every initiative helps enrich Filipino lives.”

With its powerful blend of innovation, empathy, and community-focused initiatives, Globe continues to shape the Filipino digital lifestyle. The company’s efforts ensure that during the most connected season of the year—and beyond—every Filipino has the chance to enjoy purposeful, meaningful, and empowering connections.

For more information, visit Globe.com.ph.

The political landscape in the Philippines was rocked recently when former Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co released a video statement claiming that around ₱100 billion in budget insertions for the proposed 2025 national budget were allegedly made upon the instruction of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

The allegation is explosive — not just because of the staggering amount involved, but also because it touches on some of the country’s most sensitive issues: corruption, public infrastructure, and government transparency.

As expected, Malacañang firmly denied the accusations, calling the claims “baseless” and challenging Co to testify under oath. The Senate, meanwhile, signaled readiness to investigate, though experts note that unsworn statements carry limited legal weight. Still, this is a situation that can snowball politically — especially with the public already sensitive to flood-control scandals and questionable infrastructure spending.

So the big questions now are: What does Co’s statement mean for President Marcos? How will this affect national governance? And what might the ripple look like here in Northern Mindanao, especially in cities like Cagayan de Oro?

Let’s break it down.

The Core of Co’s Allegation

Co claims that approximately ₱100 billion worth of projects — mostly under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) — were inserted into the 2025 national budget at the direction of the President and the House Speaker.

According to his documents, the massive amount includes:

• ₱81.08 billion for DPWH projects
• Flood-control and riverbank protection works
• Road and drainage systems
• Revetment and slope protection structures
• Various national roads, bridges, access roads, and flyover-type projects
• Additional allocations to agencies like the Philippine Coconut Authority, National Electrification Administration, National Housing Authority, DICT, and even ₱5.4 billion allegedly placed under the Office of the President’s “unprogrammed funds.”

These are the types of projects that normally require multi-year planning and strict evaluation. Co’s key allegation is that these were politically ordered — not agency-initiated — which, if true, would raise concerns about transparency and prioritization.

How This Impacts President Marcos

Even without formal charges, a scandal of this size is politically damaging.

1. Increased scrutiny and political pressure

Whether or not evidence surfaces, Marcos will face stiff questions on his administration’s spending priorities. Any perception that public funds were allocated based on political motives — not strategic national planning — can weaken public trust.

2. Potential investigations

Senate committees, COA, and the Ombudsman may be compelled to examine the details. Pressure from watchdog groups and independent media will likely intensify.

3. A hit to the administration’s image

Marcos often pushes infrastructure and modernization as key pillars of his leadership. Allegations affecting DPWH — especially involving flood-control projects — undercut that message. It doesn’t help that the country has ongoing investigations into substandard flood-control works and alleged procurement anomalies.

4. Internal fallout

If the issue gains traction, we may see Cabinet officials, DPWH regional heads, or even House allies coming under fire. There’s also a risk that political factions within the administration shift positions or distance themselves.

What This Means for the Philippines

Nationally, the implications can be serious.

1. Public frustration could rise

The Filipino public is sensitive to issues involving corruption, especially when tied to infrastructure. People feel the effects directly — flooding, damaged roads, ghost projects, or overpriced contracts.

2. Economic ripple

If certain projects are found to be improperly inserted or mismanaged, timelines for essential infrastructure may be delayed. That affects transport, agriculture, disaster resilience, and even investor confidence.

3. Push for reforms

Scandals like this often reignite calls for:

• Open budget data systems
• Project transparency portals
• Independent construction audits
• Stronger procurement laws

If handled well, the controversy could lead to systemic reform. If handled poorly, it reinforces the status quo.

4. Political tensions ahead of the next elections

This controversy arrives at a sensitive political moment. It may become a major narrative heading into the next national elections, especially if opposition groups leverage it as proof of mismanagement.

Northern Mindanao and Cagayan de Oro: What to Watch

Although Co’s publicized list doesn’t specify all regions affected, many of the projects he described are the same types commonly implemented in Northern Mindanao, such as:

• Riverbank protection (common along Cagayan de Oro River)
• Slope protection structures in Bukidnon
• Flood-mitigation systems in Iligan
• Coastal roads and revetments in Misamis Oriental
• Access roads leading to tourism sites

These are high-budget projects with major impact on local communities.

Here’s what this could mean locally:

1. Funding shifts or delays

If audits or investigations freeze budget allocations, some infrastructure works in the region could slow down. CDO and Misamis Oriental often rely on national funding for major flood-control improvements.

2. Closer scrutiny on DPWH regional offices

Expect more eyes on bidding, contractors, and implementation. Local journalists and watchdogs may start tracking whether local projects match the “profiles” Co mentioned.

3. Possible exposure of ghost or substandard projects

Mindanao is no stranger to stalled or poorly executed public works. This controversy may empower communities to ask tougher questions about ongoing barangay-level and city-level projects.

4. Opportunities for transparency

Local officials who champion open, well-documented infrastructure spending may gain more public support. Cities like Cagayan de Oro — which heavily depend on good drainage and flood-control systems — benefit a lot from clean governance.

Why this matters to ordinary Filipinos

Whether you live in CDO, Manila, Bohol, or Davao — infrastructure is a basic public service you feel every day.

If money meant for flood-control is diverted, we all pay for it later through:

• Worse flooding
• Road closures
• Higher disaster risk
• Damage to businesses
• More taxpayers’ money needed for future repairs

Budget scandals don’t just exist on paper — they shape the daily lives of Filipinos.

The Bottom Line

Zaldy Co’s statement may be unsworn, but it has already made waves. The Marcos administration now faces a major challenge: proving transparency and integrity in government spending.

Whether the allegations turn out true or false, they highlight a deeper truth — Filipinos deserve infrastructure projects that are well-planned, corruption-free, and focused on real community needs.

For Northern Mindanao, this is an opportunity to push for more transparency in flood-control works, major roads, tourism infrastructure, and coastal protection. And for cities like Cagayan de Oro, it’s a reminder that honest governance is not just a political slogan — it’s a necessity for public safety and regional growth.

Digital innovation and connectivity drive resilience amid challenging conditions

Globe Telecom, Inc. reported consolidated gross service revenues of ₱121.7 billion for the first nine months of 2025, slightly lower than the ₱124.0 billion recorded in the same period last year. Despite inflation easing and improved household spending, the company faced a challenging environment brought by strong industry competition and the economic impact of recent typhoons.

However, Globe demonstrated resilience and recovery momentum, posting ₱41.5 billion in revenues for the third quarter — a 3% quarter-on-quarter increase, marking its fastest sequential growth in 13 quarters. This solid rebound highlights the company’s adaptability and continued digital leadership in the evolving telecommunications landscape.

Mobile and Data Lead the Way

Globe’s mobile business remained the main contributor to overall performance, generating ₱86.2 billion in revenues as of end-September 2025. Mobile data revenues surged to an all-time high of ₱74.0 billion, reflecting Filipinos’ growing reliance on apps for messaging, entertainment, and digital transactions.

The company’s mobile subscriber base expanded to 63.1 million, up 5% year-on-year, while mobile data users rose to 37.8 million. Data now accounts for 86% of Globe’s total mobile service revenues, underscoring the country’s deepening digital engagement.

Average mobile data usage remained steady at 15 GB per month, boosted by higher 5G adoption and improved network experience. Globe’s consistent investments in network infrastructure helped sustain this growth, ensuring reliable connectivity for millions of Filipinos nationwide.

Home Broadband Shows Fiber-Driven Growth

Globe’s home broadband segment posted ₱17.8 billion in revenues for the first nine months, with a notable 4% quarter-on-quarter growth in Q3 2025. The shift to fiber connectivity continues to accelerate, with fiber now accounting for 91% of broadband revenues — up from 86% a year earlier.

The GFiber Prepaid (GFP) service, in particular, has been a standout performer, reaching 700,000 subscribers by September 2025 — a 28% jump from the previous quarter. This rapid growth underscores Globe’s success in making high-speed internet more accessible to Filipino homes.

Complementing this, Globe launched the Globe At Home 5G Loop, a first-of-its-kind innovation offering fiber-like speeds with a portable and plug-and-play setup — enabling seamless connectivity both at home and on the go.

Corporate Data and Digital Solutions Rebound

Corporate data revenues reached ₱15.0 billion, a 3% year-on-year decline due to slower enterprise spending. Yet, the third quarter showed a 13% rebound, driven by increased demand for digital transformation solutions such as cybersecurity, IoT, and data center services.

This shift aligns with Globe’s strategy to evolve beyond connectivity, offering technology-driven services that help businesses thrive in a digital-first economy.

GCash and Digital Platforms Strengthen Performance

Globe’s fintech arm Mynt, the parent company of GCash, remained a strong contributor to growth. Globe’s equity share in Mynt rose 52% to ₱5.3 billion, now accounting for a quarter of the company’s total net income before tax.

GCash continues to dominate as the country’s #1 finance super-app, serving millions of users in the Philippines and abroad. With services spanning payments, credit, insurance, investments, and sustainability initiatives like GForest, GCash is reshaping financial inclusion for Filipinos.

Cost Discipline and Strong Financial Standing

Globe’s EBITDA reached ₱64.2 billion, maintaining a strong margin of 52.8% through effective cost management. Operating expenses decreased by 3% year-on-year, driven by lower marketing and staff costs.

While net income stood at ₱17.7 billion, down 14% year-on-year, Globe’s balance sheet remains solid, with total debt at ₱253.5 billion and leverage ratios comfortably within covenant thresholds.

Capital expenditures were trimmed to ₱31.4 billion, a 23% drop from last year, reflecting Globe’s focused investment strategy. About 89% of this spending was directed toward data-related projects, including 1,375 new cell sites, 8,699 upgraded sites, 60,193 fiber lines, and 877 new 5G sites nationwide.

By September 2025, Globe’s 5G coverage reached 98.7% of Metro Manila and 98.3% of major cities across Visayas and Mindanao — ensuring faster and more reliable connectivity for users nationwide.

Driving Digital Inclusion for a Better Philippines

“Our third-quarter results underscore Globe’s consistent performance and ability to create impact beyond connectivity,” said Carl Raymond R. Cruz, Globe Telecom’s President and CEO. “Our mobile and broadband segments continued to grow, while enterprise and fintech platforms strengthened our long-term value creation.”

Cruz emphasized that Globe remains focused on customer experience and innovation, seeing B2B growth as a key driver for future expansion. The company continues to invest in world-class connectivity and technologies that support a digitally empowered and inclusive Philippines.

As the digital landscape evolves, Globe’s sustained focus on innovation, connectivity, and financial inclusion reinforces its role as a nation-building partner. Through its network advancements, fintech leadership, and strategic cost management, Globe continues to connect more Filipinos to opportunities — empowering communities, businesses, and the nation to thrive in the digital age.