MIAS 2025 to showcase expanding automotive lineup

April 10, 2025 | 12:30 am

The Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) will celebrate its 20^th anniversary with its biggest showcase yet, taking place from April 10-13 at the World Trade Center in Metro Manila.

As the country’s premier auto event, MIAS continues to highlight the latest innovations, cutting-edge designs, and breakthrough technologies in the automotive industry. The show will feature over 90 exhibitors and more than 200 vehicles on display.

With the theme “Driven by Connection,” MIAS 2025 seeks to strengthen the bond between car brands and consumers while bridging the gap between generations of automotive enthusiasts.

The exhibition will showcase a diverse lineup of vehicle brands, offering visitors a firsthand look at the most advanced cars on the market. From fuel-efficient sedans to high-performance sports cars, the floor will cater to various consumer preferences.

A total of 24 passenger car brands will be featured, including well-established names like Hyundai, Isuzu, Kia, Lynk & Co., Nissan, Suzuki, and Tesla. East Asian manufacturers are also gaining ground, with Aion, Aito, BAIC, Bestune, BYD, Changan, Chery, Foton, GAC, GWM, Jaecoo, Jetour, MG, Neta, Omoda, Rox, and Vinfast, all set to introduce their latest models to Filipino buyers.

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Chinese auto brands will dominate the exhibition, representing 17 of the 24 passenger vehicle brands on display. Trucks will also play a prominent role, with the latest commercial vehicles from FAW, JAC, and Sinotruk.

Backed by major sponsors, including BPI Auto Loans, Petron, and Shell, MIAS 2025 will introduce vehicle launches, cutting-edge automotive technology, and interactive exhibits designed to benefit consumers.

What to expect in MIAS 2025

MIAS 2025 gives consumers a chance to explore various vehicle options, especially for prospective buyers. The event will feature an outdoor test drive area, allowing visitors to experience the newest models before making a purchase. Many participating brands are also expected to unveil new vehicles.

Since 2025 marks the first full year that the Philippine government will exempt new energy vehicles, including hybrids, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and battery electric vehicles (BEVs), manufacturers are expected to showcase a range of new electric and hybrid models, expanding choices in the emerging electric vehicle market.

Tesla will showcase its lineup at MIAS for the first time. The electric vehicle giant, which recently entered the Philippine market, is expected to highlight its approach to sustainable mobility.

Vinfast, an electric vehicle manufacturer from Vietnam, will also make its debut at MIAS 2025 as it expands its presence in the Southeast Asian market.

MIAS 2025 will also welcome Rox with the 01, an outdoor lifestyle-oriented electric vehicle (EV) SUV.

With plans to become a dominant player in the country’s electric vehicle (EV) market, BYD is preparing to roll out several models at MIAS 2025. The Seagull EV, an all-electric compact car, will mark the company’s entry into the affordable EV segment. BYD will also feature the Shark, a plug-in hybrid pickup truck that combines the convenience of traditional combustion engines with the benefits of electric power.

GAC Motor will unveil electrified versions of its popular models. The hybrid variants of the Empow sedan, GS8 SUV, and M8 MPV are already listed on the Department of Energy’s recognized vehicle list.

On the other hand, GWM, while slower in its product rollout, continues to showcase its latest vehicles. The company previously previewed the Wey Gaoshan MPV and the Haval Menglong at last year’s show, but these models have yet to be officially launched for sale.

MG, which had one of the largest booths at last year’s MIAS, will return with more exciting previews. At MIAS 2024, MG showcased the MG 7, the Mifa 9 EV, and the RX9, but those models have yet to be made available in the market.

United Asia Automotive Group, Inc. (UAAGI) will feature a diverse range of vehicles from its renowned brands: BAIC, Lynk & Co, Foton, and Chery. Following the successful relaunch of the BAIC brand and the debut of Lynk & Co at last year’s MIAS, UAAGI promises an even more dynamic presence this year.

After a successful second year in the country, Jetour will unveil its new hybrid and plug-in hybrid models at MIAS 2025, shifting focus from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

Omoda and Jaecoo aim to build a robust dealer network this year with competitive pricing and a promising initial vehicle lineup. MIAS 2025 will feature the C5 and E5 crossovers, along with the EJ6 SUV.

Kia is expected to showcase a mix of traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, turbo hybrids, and full electric vehicles (EVs).

Hyundai will spotlight its high-performance models under the N brand, along with hybrid versions of popular models like the Santa Fe and Tucson. The automaker may also reveal the hybrid Staria Lounge, which has recently been homologated by the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

Japanese auto giant Isuzu is making waves with a possible surprise launch in the passenger vehicle segment. Industry buzz points to the unveiling of the refreshed mu-X, with initial units already seen being transported, raising anticipation for the SUV’s Philippine debut.

Suzuki is also expected to showcase several models that are already gaining traction in Southeast Asia. The Fronx, which is similar in size to the Raize, is expected to be one of the standout models. The brand is also introducing the all-new Dzire, a sedan that has already garnered attention for earning a five-star Global NCAP safety rating.

Subaru, one of the pioneering brands that helped shape the early editions of MIAS, and Ford will not participate in this year’s show. This departure leaves a gap in the lineup of manufacturers who have long been part of MIAS.

Subsequently, automakers are expected to present their latest AI-driven vehicle systems with improved safety, convenience, and performance. AI-powered driver assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance are expected to be among the highlights.

In addition to exclusive previews of models and technology, car enthusiasts can admire well-restored and customized vehicles at the MIAS-Petron Classic Car Competition.

Celebrating two decades of car innovation

Since its inception in 2005, MIAS has become the largest and most anticipated auto show in the Philippines. Founded by motoring journalists Jason Ang, Ulysses Ang, and Alvin Uy, with support from Worldbex Services International founding chairman Joseph Ang, the event was inspired by global auto exhibitions and aimed to provide world-class motoring experiences for Filipino enthusiasts.

The show has since attracted major automotive brands eager to showcase their latest models to Filipino consumers. It has also garnered support from key organizations, including the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), Tuason Racing School (TRS), and the Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI).

Tickets are available through the official MIAS website, including a special bundle for groups of five or more. — Mhicole A. Moral

Exceeding expectations: A look back at MIAS 2024

April 10, 2025 | 12:28 am

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With much anticipation building around the 20^th edition of the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) in 2025, auto enthusiasts and industry insiders alike are already forecasting how the Philippines’ biggest annual motoring event will top itself yet again. Renowned for introducing eye-catching automotive debuts, next-gen tech displays, and high-octane entertainment, MIAS 2025 is expected to once again encapsulate the country’s automotive scene in a single show.

But before looking forward to this year’s show, it’s worth taking the time to revisit the spectacular run of MIAS 2024, which took place from April 4 to 7 at the World Trade Center (WTC) Metro Manila and SMX Convention Center Manila at the Mall of Asia Complex. Themed “Bridging the Future,” MIAS 2024 raised the bar and exceeded predictions.

“The automotive industry plays a crucial role in meeting this demand by providing a range of vehicles that cater to different needs and preferences. Our mission every year is to showcase this fast-paced industry, and we shall continue this legacy through the next generations. MIAS continues to be the biggest and largest automotive show in the country today — a gateway for people to witness mobility in action,” said Joseph L. Ang, founding chairman of MIAS organizer Worldbex Services International, remarked of the event.

The event’s 19^th edition concluded with record-breaking attendance and amazing displays of car models. Organizers counted a total of 162,000 visitors in last year’s event compared to 149,000 in 2023.

Over 30 world-renowned brands showcased more than 200 models, featuring a diverse range of vehicles from electric cars to high-performance sports cars, luxury sedans, and innovative concept cars. Top automobile companies along with up and coming brands such as BAIC, BAW, Bestune, Changan, Chery, Chevrolet, DAF, Dongfeng, Foton, GAC, GWM, Hongqi, Hyundai, Hycan, JAC, Jetour, JMC, Lynk & Co, Kinglong, MG, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Omoda & Jaecoo, Peugeot, Seres, Subaru, Suzuki, and Weichai were all present in the showcase.

For the first time, MIAS 2024 was staged across two massive venues, spanning 41,000 square meters of exhibition space. This unprecedented expansion allowed more room for show-stopping vehicle debuts, interactive brand booths, test drive experiences, and automotive showcases than ever before.

Conveniently, visitors were granted access to easily explore both venues with just one ticket, allowing them to take in the event in its entirety along with complimentary shuttle services at designated pick-up and drop-off locations running all day to ensure seamless travel between WTC and SMX.

As endorsed, MIAS 2024 played host to a number of major automotive debuts and previews for last year’s releases. Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) took center stage and unveiled the new Triton, a mid-size pickup truck equipped with Overland Kings’ accessories to highlight its off-road prowess and durability. The model was recently recognized with the Best Design award in the Standard Pick-Up Truck category at the 2024-2025 Auto Focus Media’s Choice Awards (AFMCA).

Similarly, Foton Motor Philippines debuted the country’s first hybrid diesel pickup trucks — the supersized Tunland V7 and V9 — marking a milestone in hybrid technology in the local market while Chery Auto also made waves with its showcase of new energy vehicles (NEVs), featuring the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), as well as its fully electric eQ7.

Newcomer brands like Omoda and Jaecoo used the annual event to burst onto the Philippine scene and officially enter the local market with strong showings. Omoda launched its Omoda 5 and Omoda 5 EV, while Jaecoo introduced the rugged yet stylish Jaecoo 7.

Great Wall Motor (GWM) brought plenty of excitement to the show with the Haval MengLong 4×4 and the luxurious WEY Gaoshan minivan, showcasing their commitment to offering a wide range of options for Filipino drivers. JMC also made its mark with the launch of the Grand Avenue and Vigus pickups, designed for those who want both lifestyle appeal and rugged utility.

Not to be outdone, Astara-backed JAC Motors introduced an impressive lineup, including the JS4, JS6, and JS8 Pro crossovers, along with the T8 Pro and T9 pickups. Changan Auto Philippines further added to the excitement by debuting its CS15 model, strategically positioned below the CS35 and CS55 Plus to cater to those looking for a more affordable yet reliable option.

While the vehicles were undeniably the stars of the show, MIAS 2024 also offered a host of activities to engage every type of automotive fan. The event had it all, from adrenaline-pumping stunt shows led by Guinness World Record holder Russ Swift to the Test Drive Avenue, where guests could get behind the wheel of select models. MIAS 2024 delivered immersive experiences beyond static displays. The Truck Zone, Custom & Classic Car Competition, Die-Cast Car Collection exhibit, Mobility Marathon, and various car club displays also added variety and excitement to the experience.

Supporting the auto buying journey, BPI Auto Loan co-sponsored the annual motoring showcase as a key partner, offering exclusive promos for prospective buyers. Their Auto Loan Bundle included attractive interest rate discounts, waived fees, and a year of free motor and personal accident insurance. BPI’s booth in MIAS 2024 served as both a consultation hub and a gateway to turn car show dreams into driveway realities.

With various releases, expanded venues, and more activities, MIAS 2024 left a lasting impression on attendees, with many praising its seamless organization and impressive layout.

“I dub it the ‘biggest show on wheels’ because of the number of participants joining this year, as well as the volume of new vehicle brands and models, new technology combinations as well as a convergence of industry stakeholders that will be offering test drives, financial evaluation or assistance as well as on-the-spot sales,” The Philippine STAR columnist Cito Beltran said of the event.

“[P]erhaps for the first time, there were so many marques that debuted on the MIAS stage — unveiling their offerings and their brands’ value propositions in one fell swoop,” Kap Maceda Aguila, editor of BusinessWorld’s Velocity section, wrote in a report reviewing last year’s releases.

Some attendees also highlighted areas for improvement, emphasizing that MIAS requires better organization, collaboration, and enforcement to reach its goal of becoming a premier international automotive trade show.

“A motor show should not be a fiesta with laser lights, EDM at high decibels, noontime show dance troupes, and oh, there just so happens to be cars there. It shouldn’t be that way. The cars should be the stars. That’s what the daily average of 40,000+ people went to the show to see, sit in, test drive, and buy,” Vince Pornelos of the Philippine-based online automobile magazine Autoindustriya.com wrote in his event review.

Looking ahead to MIAS 2025, the excitement is palpable as the event promises to push boundaries once again. With the success of MIAS 2024 setting a high standard, attendees are eager to see how the show will continue to evolve. For a nation that loves automobiles, the Philippines’ biggest annual motoring event remains at the forefront of the automotive scene. — Jomarc Angelo M. Corpuz

Trailblazers of technology in motion

April 10, 2025 | 12:26 am

SF_gps-system-smart-car-OL — rawpixel.com | Freepik

In the current buzz surrounding generative artificial intelligence (AI), it’s easy to overlook one of AI’s earliest and most practical frontiers: the automotive industry.

Long before ChatGPT or image generators captured mainstream attention, automakers were already integrating AI in subtle, sophisticated methods under Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) — otherwise known as the everyday conveniences in modern automobiles such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, automatic emergency brakes, and self-parking systems.

While these technologies were not ‘intelligent’ in the way people imagine AI to be, they functioned on similar logical, rules-based systems that established the groundwork for more contemporary iterations.

For instance, adaptive cruise control systems utilize radar sensors to automatically adjust a car’s speed to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles on the road. Automatic emergency brakes functioned the same way. Lane keeping assistance systems, meanwhile, used real-time image processing to detect important road signs and help prevent unintentional lane departures or even provide steering input to keep the vehicle centered.

Building on that foundation has opened the door to countless possibilities in the industry, such as: autonomous vehicles using cutting-edge sensor technology to perceive and understand their surroundings; AI-driven predictive maintenance using the data from those same sensors to determine when components are likely to fail, allowing for proactive maintenance; real-time navigation assistants powered by personalized driver profiles and satellite imagery; and much more.

Automakers are already investing massively to bring such visions to life. Just last March, American automotive brand General Motors signed a partnership with technology firm NVIDIA to use artificial intelligence chips and software to develop autonomous vehicle technology for its vehicles and improve workflow at its factories.

According to the two companies, the plan is to cooperate in creating AI systems founded on NVIDIA’s platforms suited for factory planning and for future advanced driver-assistance systems.

The news follows similar agreements made by NVIDIA with Japanese car maker Toyota and the Korean Hyundai to collaborate in the development of autonomous driving systems. Other mobility companies are also working with the technology firm for its advanced driver-assistance systems and autonomous vehicle roadmaps include BYD, JLR, Li Auto, Lucid, Mercedes-Benz, NIO, Nuro, Rivian, Volvo Cars, Waabi, Wayve, Xiaomi, ZEEKR, and Zoox.

“The autonomous vehicle revolution has arrived, and automotive will be one of the largest AI and robotics industries,” Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA, said in a statement. “NVIDIA is bringing two decades of automotive computing, safety expertise and its CUDA AV platform to transform the multitrillion dollar auto industry.”

Notably, Wayve, the autonomous driving startup based in London, is fast-tracking its global expansion, leading the development of autonomous automobiles in Europe. The company, one of the highest profile AI companies in the continent, has recently established an office in Germany, with further plans to expand across the EU.

The progress of technology is also opening the doors to other opportunities in the automotive space. At the CES 2025, brands have showcased how new technologies are driving the development of electric vehicles and improving user experiences through features like personalized software features and interactive AI systems.

Among these was the breakthrough collaboration between semiconductor firm Omnivision and healthcare technology firm Philips. The two brands unveiled the world’s first in-cabin connected well-being monitoring solution, which smartly tracks vital signs to increase passenger comfort by adjusting lighting and climate and suggesting breaks or route changes.

Automotive parts manufacturing company Continental AG unveiled a biometric sensing display that discreetly monitors vital signs using a hidden camera and a laser projector installed behind the dashboard display to support a wide range of safety and comfort functions.

Garmin, a prominent GPS and automotive technology provider, demonstrated the benefits of intelligent system integration at the annual trade show with its new domain controller, a single module that streamlines the management of six in-vehicle displays, and supports safety features like child detection and driver monitoring alongside entertainment.

Meanwhile, Hyundai Mobis also showcased new innovations with a full-windshield holographic display designed to project essential information for the driver and assist with decision-making on the road.

Honda and Sony Honda Mobility unveiled the results of their collaboration, the Afeela 1, featuring an interactive AI voice agent alongside plans for accelerating EV adoption by building 100,000 EV charging stations by 2030.

“Sony Honda Mobility strives to evolve relationships with people through intelligent mobility and revolutionize the travel experience,” Yasuhide Mizuno, chairperson and CEO of Sony Honda Mobility, was quoted as saying at the annual technology show. “We are very pleased to unveil Afeela 1, developed for the era of autonomous driving, at CES 2025. Afeela 1 can be called a buddy, combining advanced software with meticulously refined hardware.”

It is clear that the automotive industry is fully living up to its history as the pioneers of the practical implementation of new technology. “Away from the usual CES razzmatazz we saw a number of trends emerge that will continue to shape the future of mobility. This year’s CES was a testament to the industry’s shift towards practical, executable solutions while keeping an eye on the future,” Brian Rhodes, director at S&P Global Mobility, wrote about CES 2025.

“AI was omnipresent, from practical applications to those where use cases are perplexing. SDVs took center stage, with the ecosystem rallying around them. The focus was on execution, with futuristic concepts taking a backseat for now. Autonomous vehicles made a strong impression, moving from mere hype to near-term reality.” — Bjorn Biel M. Beltran

SM Prime plans up to 6 upscale developments in next 5 years

April 10, 2025 | 12:07 am

MV_ClubhousePool_Optimized_09102024 — HAMILO COAST’S M Village, a residential development at Marina Estates in Nasugbu, Batangas, developed by Costa Del Hamilo, Inc., a subsidiary of SM Prime Holdings, Inc. — HAMILOCOAST.COM

LISTED real estate developer SM Prime Holdings, Inc. plans to launch up to six projects under its upcoming premium residential line within the next five years.

“The pipeline is maybe five to six projects in the next five years,” SM Prime Holdings Executive Vice-President and Premium Residential Line Head Jose Juan Z. Jugo said in an interview with BusinessWorld.

Mr. Jugo identified Cebu and Luzon as potential locations for the projects.

“We have a lot of land in other cities. We have a lot of land in Cebu, so that might be an area we want to enter later on. Luzon is a definite target,” he said.

Mr. Jugo said the first upscale residential project, expected to launch in the third quarter, will be located within the National Capital Region (NCR).

“We just want to get this project off the ground first,” he said.

“It’s all in process. If things go as planned, we may launch something in the third quarter. We’re already in the planning stage and securing permits,” he added.

In November last year, SM Prime said it would expand its residential portfolio to include high-end horizontal and vertical principal homes, in addition to its existing economic, mid-range, and leisure residential offerings.

SM Prime, the real estate arm of the Sy-led conglomerate SM Investments Corp., has allocated P100 billion in capital expenditures for its malls, residential developments, and integrated property projects this year.

For 2024, SM Prime recorded a 14% increase in its consolidated net income to P45.6 billion, as revenue rose by 10% to P140.4 billion.

SM Prime’s portfolio includes 87 local malls, 22 office towers, and over 185,000 residential units launched.

SM Prime shares were last traded on April 8, gaining 0.45% or ten centavos to close at P22.50 per share. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave

SEC calls on energy firms to tap local capital market for growth

April 10, 2025 | 12:06 am

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is urging energy companies to tap the local capital market to support their expansion plans.

SEC Chairperson Emilio B. Aquino said the corporate regulator aims to attract more investment in power projects by simplifying the securities registration process.

“With a simplified registration statement, we make it easier for power generators and distribution utilities to offer their shares to the public,” Mr. Aquino said in an e-mail statement on Wednesday.

Mr. Aquino also said the SEC seeks to introduce the capital market as a financing solution to meet the surging demand in the energy sector.

“Energy projects are very capital-intensive. This is where the capital market can come in,” Mr. Aquino said.

Mr. Aquino made these remarks as the SEC and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) launched the Securing and Expanding Capital for Power Generation Operators and Wholesale Electricity and Retail Services (SEC POWERS) program on March 27.

Provided under SEC Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 4, issued last year, SEC POWERS aims to streamline the registration of securities for power generation and distribution utilities.

The MC supports Republic Act No. 9136, or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act, which mandates power generation and distribution firms to offer at least 15% of their shares to the public.

Under the initiative, the SEC Markets and Securities Regulation Department must complete the review of the registration statements of power generation and distribution firms within 45 days from filing.

Before filing the application, registrants must secure all necessary clearances from various SEC departments to ensure the timely processing of their registration statements.

The SEC said the simplified process for power generation and distribution firms also seeks to support the P67 trillion worth of investments needed to meet the country’s power demands under the Philippine Energy Plan 2023-2050.

“When we combine our expertise and resources, we’re not just making processes more efficient for investors and industry players — we are also strengthening the foundation for a stronger, more competitive energy sector,” ERC Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer Monalisa C. Dimalanta said.

In March, the ERC said that 136 generation companies, accounting for 54% of all generating companies and nearly 14,000 megawatts of generating capacity, had not complied with the listing requirement under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA).

It added that only 37 energy companies were fully compliant with the listing requirement.

Non-compliant energy firms could face the revocation of their certificates of compliance or non-renewal of their operating licenses.

The ERC is aiming to get an additional 100 energy companies to comply with the public offering rules within the next 12 months. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave

Gas firm taps First Gen to power manufacturing facility with RE

April 10, 2025 | 12:05 am

GAS manufacturing firm Nippon Sanso Ingasco Group (NSIG) has partnered with Lopez-led First Gen Corp. to power its gas manufacturing facility in Mindanao with renewable energy (RE).

First Gen, through its subsidiary Energy Development Corp., will supply 2.6 megawatts (MW) of electricity from its geothermal power plant in North Cotabato to NSIG’s facility within the Phividec Industrial Estate in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, the companies said in a statement on Wednesday.

“As part of the Nippon Sanso Holdings Group’s global commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, we are continuously working to minimize our environmental impact. Partnering with First Gen to power our operations in Tagoloan with 100% RE marks a significant milestone in our sustainability journey,” said NSIG President Takenori Kawachino.

“This initiative aligns with our commitment to adopt cleaner energy sources for our production facilities and promote sustainable solutions across our global operations. We look forward to building on our partnership with First Gen as we accelerate our decarbonization efforts in the Philippines,” he added.

NSIG, a wholly owned subsidiary of Japan-based Nippon Sanso Holdings Group, is a manufacturer and distributor of liquid and compressed industrial gases for various industries, including electronics, food and beverages, and steel production.

The company is primarily engaged in the production and distribution of nitrogen, oxygen, argon, hydrogen, and specialty gases.

Under the Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA), contestable customers, or qualified end-users consuming at least 500 kilowatts a month, are allowed to choose their own power suppliers.

“Transitioning to direct RE supply under RCOA comes with challenges, but the benefits far outweigh them. We are committed to helping our customers like NSIG achieve their decarbonization objectives by ensuring a stable and efficient power supply from RE sources and optimizing electricity utilization using energy efficiency solutions,” said Carlos Lorenzo Vega, chief customer engagement officer of First Gen.

First Gen has a total of 3,668 MW of combined capacity from its portfolio of plants that run on geothermal, wind, hydropower, solar energy, and natural gas. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera

The lush flavors of Italy and the Philippines

April 10, 2025 | 12:05 am

Venchi-Chocoviar-75%-paired-with-Grilled-Liempo-with-muscovado-glaze,-and-Laing-with-toasted-sesame-and-chili-flakes — VENCHI CHOCOVIAR 75% paired with grilled liempo with muscovado glaze, and laing with toasted sesame and chili flakes.

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Venchi pairs its chocolates with local dishes

VENCHI, the Italian brand of chocolate and gelato which arrived in the Philippines late last year, has presented six pairings that each feature a Venchi chocolate creation and a Filipino dish that it complements.

Founded by Silviano Venchi in 1878, the brand has been going on a world tour to prove how flavors of different origins can make up a unique cross-cultural assemblage. Leading the tour is Giovanni Battista (GB) Mantelli, the chocolatier descendant of the original Mr. Venchi and now the brand’s main ambassador.

While Venchi only has two stores in the Philippines — at Central Square in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) and The Podium in Ortigas — they are hoping to open more and connect with Filipinos, according to Mr. Mantelli.

“We want to be part of Filipino celebrations and everyday indulgences,” he said at the tasting event. “That’s why we’re here to connect your soul food with our chocolate.”

ANY TIME OF DAY
At M Dining + Bar in Makati City on April 1, the lights shone brightly at the restaurant to start off and welcome guests to the first mini meal of the day: brunch.

It was a sweet start for this writer, used to brunch being a savory affair, but the smooth Cremino 1878 is undeniably scrumptious. The silky taho and caramelized arnibal (brown sugar syrup) enhanced its hazelnut notes, while various kakanin (rice cakes) like puto, sapin-sapin, and kutsinta on the plate highlighted its nutty quality. A cocktail blending Don Papa Rum with earl grey-coconut soda served as a refreshing finish.

Other courses were a hit-or-miss, like the lunch course presenting coconut-based gising-gising with salted duck egg on the side: simply too strong for the Venchi pistachio chocolate to make its mark. It only stood out with the paired drink, the pineapple-and-lemon Don Papa Masskara with a dash of siling labuyo.

The afternoon snack or merienda was another miss — the manggang hilaw with bagoong (green mango with shrimp paste) was way too overpowering for the luxurious Chocoviar Arancia, which deserved its own time in the sun.

What quickly rose above as the best course was the appetizer course, brought in with the lights in the restaurant dimmed a bit to signal the late afternoon. The plate presented crispy chicharon with spiced vinegar on the side, pili nuts sprinkled around to add extra sweetness and crunch. Venchi’s Nougatine, one of its more famous chocolates blended as 60% dark chocolate with hazelnut crumbs, rounded out each element perfectly. The Don Papa ube macapuno (a coconut that developed abnormally; resulting in a juicy, wet, mush) lowball was a subtle complement to the course.

The lights dimmed even further to mimic nighttime, and grilled liempo and spicy laing (taro leaves cooked in coconut milk) came in for dinner. Already heavy and delicious on their own, the mini meal was topped off with Venchi’s Chocoviar 75%, providing a bitter profile to add sophistication to the experience.

Finally, the late-night cocktail closed the day out with toasted barquillos and latik, mixing crispy texture and caramelized sweetness. The chosen Venchi chocolate to pair with this was the Espresso Caffe, a 75% dark chocolate with arabica coffee notes. The Don Papa Rum with sweet vermouth cocktail was a strong finish.

“We hope we were able to show you that chocolate is perfect at any time of day,” Mr. Mantelli concluded.

Venchi stores are located in Central Square in BGC, Taguig City, and The Podium in Ortigas, Mandaluyong City. The brand was brought here by Good Eats by SSI, also the franchise holder of Salad Stop! and Shake Shack. — Brontë H. Lacsamana

PHL businesses must invest in data protection amid threats

April 10, 2025 | 12:05 am

PHILIPPINE BUSINESSES must increase their data protection investments as cyberthreats become more complex, according to Taiwan-based technology company Synology, Inc.

“As the Philippines undergoes rapid digital transformation, businesses must strengthen their data protection strategies to address the rising demand for secure data storage and management,” Joanne Weng, director of International Business at Synology, said in e-mail.

“To ensure business continuity and resilience, Philippine businesses must invest in scalable, reliable data protection solutions.”

Amid increasing digitalization in the country, many organizations in the Philippines struggle to keep up with evolving cyberthreats due to limited information technology (IT) expertise and inadequate protection measures, Ms. Weng said.

About 35% of Asia-Pacific’s chief executive officers are now prioritizing investments in data management and robust cybersecurity, according to the 2024 EY CEO Outlook Pulse survey.

In March, Synology launched its newest data protection system called ActiveProtect, which features a pre-configured, all-in-one solution that streamlines IT management and centralizes data backup across different environments.

“Its advanced source-side deduplication technology reduces storage demands by over 50% and saves up to 99% of transmission bandwidth, helping businesses minimize infrastructure costs while ensuring fast and reliable recovery,” Ms. Weng said.

ActiveProtect also allows users to scale their data easily as needed. It can also detect and restore corrupt data, verify backups, and test disaster recovery.

With the solution, a company can protect up to 150,000 workloads and monitor up to 2,500 sites and view its entire backup infrastructure, including primary backups, backup copies, tiered, and archived data.

Following its post-pandemic surge, the company expects significant growth as more firms shift to digital operations and hybrid work, Ms. Weng said.

For this year, the company is looking to expand its enterprise user base, she added.

“Since our last update in fourth quarter of last year, we remain optimistic about the Philippine market, which continues to be one of our fastest-growing countries in the Asia-Pacific region,” Ms. Weng said.

“The demand for a scalable, secure, and user-friendly data protection solution has never been greater, and ActiveProtect is positioned to meet that need in the Philippines,” Synology Regional Sales Manager Thachawan Chinchanakarn said in a separate statement.

As of 2024, Synology protects over 25 million workloads worldwide, managing over 350 extrabytes of data across 13 million servers. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz

Sprout Solutions eyeing to raise $20M to fund expansion

April 10, 2025 | 12:04 am

SPROUT Solutions, a local business solutions platform, is looking to raise $20 million (around P1.15 billion) to fund its acquisitions in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia this year, according to its chief executive officer (CEO).

“We’re raising a Series C round, so although we are a profitable company, we have many expansion plans, including some acquisitions,” Patrick Gentry, co-founder and CEO of Sprout Solutions, told BusinessWorld on the sidelines of SaaScon PH 2025 on April 8.

Sprout Solutions, a homegrown company, specializes in artificial intelligence (AI)-enhanced human resource and business solutions software. It is used by over 240,000 companies in the Philippines and Thailand, according to the company.

Demand for software-as-a-service (SaaS) platforms has been driven by Filipinos’ tech-savviness, Mr. Gentry said.

“Filipinos are incredibly sophisticated when it comes to technology in general, and specifically AI,” he said. “So, I think it’s really exciting to see how quickly AI adoption is happening in the Philippines and how we get to be a part of that adoption as the leading SaaS provider in the country.”

The Philippines’ generative AI market is expected to see a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 41.52% from 2025 to 2030, according to German online data platform Statista.

Sprout Solutions’ key products include its 24/7 AI Assistant, HR (human resources) information, consulting and analytics system, and payroll management system.

Mr. Gentry also cited the importance of salary benchmarking through its platform to help employers stay competitive and retain their employees.

“We have incredible amounts of data in our platform that we examine on an anonymized basis and provide insights for our clients. So, salary benchmarking is something that protects employees from being underpaid.”

According to the company’s report “Salary Benchmarking for Success: The Impact on Absenteeism, Attrition, and Employee Tenure in PH,” Philippine employees who earn less than the median salary have a higher attrition rate of 11.43% compared to those who earn more.

“By conducting regular salary benchmarking, companies can stay updated with market trends and make informed decisions about employee remuneration,” according to the report, which gathered data from over 1,000 companies across the country from January to December 2023. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz

Is your mainframe a security blind spot?

April 10, 2025 | 12:04 am

Cybersecurity-hacker — STOCK PHOTO | Image from Freepik

By Praveen Kumar

ALTHOUGH cloud platforms and applications have become widely popular, many businesses still rely on mainframes to handle their most mission-critical tasks. According to IBM, over 70% of information technology (IT) workloads worldwide are handled by mainframes — and business leaders are steadily increasing their reliance on mainframes in parallel with cloud-based technologies. This is reflected in the Asia-Pacific mainframe market’s continued expansion, with GII Research expecting an increase in market value to about $1.78 million by 2030 from $1.249 million in 2022, with a compounded annual growth rate of 4.6%.

When it comes to security, companies have traditionally considered mainframes to be safer and far less vulnerable to cyberattacks. Such perceptions can create a false sense of security and cause organizations to prioritize other security investments and neglect important mainframe enhancements over time.

In life and in the realm of business, perceptions that don’t match reality can be perilous, especially amid the growing threat of cyberattacks in the Asia-Pacific region. In the Philippines, the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s National Cybersecurity Plan showed that the National Computer Emergency Response Team tracked 57,400 cybersecurity threats and managed 3,470 incidents from 2021 to February 2023. Most of these attacks targeted critical sectors such as government emergency systems (61%), academia (13%), and telecommunications (8%). These attacks can be financially devastating, with a PwC report showing that 35% of organizations suffered losses anywhere from $1 million to $20 million over the past three years.

The rise in frequency and potency of cyberattacks is a consequence of threat actors’ improving sophistication, as cybercriminals now have access to advanced technologies and artificial intelligence (AI)-powered tools. The only logical response to this is for organizations to evolve accordingly.

COMMON MAINFRAME VULNERABILITIES
While mainframes have a reputation for robust security, they are hardly immune to vulnerabilities. In the Philippines where digital transformation is rapidly advancing, the risk of cyberthreats is also on the rise. Statista reported that data breaches in the Philippines reached roughly 140,000 in the fourth quarter of 2023 driven by rapid digitalization, advanced hacking techniques, and insufficient cybersecurity measures. Given the growing reliance on mainframes in industries that handle mission-critical operations, businesses must rethink their approach to mainframe security.

Awareness is always the first step, and every organization should understand the following vulnerabilities:

– Configuration-based vulnerabilities, stemming from errors in system setup and parameters, create unintended access points for malicious actors.

– Code-based vulnerabilities grow out of programming errors or flaws within the mainframe’s software code, which can be exploited by malicious actors as entry points to infiltrate the system to siphon off data or cause system disruptions.

– Insider threats also pose a significant risk. Employees and contractors with authorized access can be weak links.

– Relying solely on passwords significantly weakens mainframe security. Multi-factor authentication (MFA), for instance, adds a layer of protection by requiring multiple forms of verification.

PRACTICAL STEPS TO WIN CONTROL BACK
New research by Rocket Software found that only 28% of IT leaders said they can assure that they could proactively navigate threats despite acknowledging mainframe security as a top priority.

To protect mainframe systems effectively and improve confidence, organizations should consider the following:

– Employ a mainframe security architect — A dedicated security architect aids the design and maintenance of a secure mainframe environment that is also tailored for an organization’s specific needs.

– Implement code-based vulnerability scanning — Regularly scrutinizing code for vulnerabilities helps identify issues before they escalate into more serious threats.

– Conduct regular mainframe penetration tests — To uncover possible weaknesses, scheduled penetration testing can unlock valuable insights, which can be used to enhance defenses.

– Implement real-time compliance checking — Compliance is crucial for cyber resilience, and continuously monitoring adherence to organizational policies ensures alignment with regulations and upholds mainframe security.

– Deploy MFA systemwide — MFA is central to a modern cybersecurity strategy. Implementing MFA across the system adds an additional layer of security that minimizes the risk of unauthorized access.

PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS, INVEST IN MAINFRAME SECURITY
The Philippine government is driving digital growth through infrastructure improvements and fostering local business development. As part of this effort, mainframes play a critical role in supporting essential functions for banks, government institutions, and large firms, but as cyberthreats evolve, organizations cannot afford to overlook their mainframe security. Failing to address these vulnerabilities not only increases the risk of financial losses and exposure to potential liabilities but also makes compliance with crucial regulations, such as PCI 4.0 or the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard and the Data Privacy Act, more difficult.

IT and security leaders need to understand that mainframe security is an ongoing commitment and not just a one-time task. By being constantly aware of the vulnerabilities inherent to mainframes and implementing proactive security measures, they can significantly bolster their organization’s defenses against costly breaches and stay within the bounds of industry regulations.

Praveen Kumar is the vice-president for Asia-Pacific at Rocket Software.

Bonchon celebrates 15 years

April 10, 2025 | 12:04 am

ON MARCH 18, Bonchon, the Korean fried chicken chain that arrived in 2010 in the Philippines, celebrated its 15^th anniversary by introducing new menu items.

The anniversary celebration was held during lunchtime at its SM Mall of Asia store, its third back then. Now, Bonchon has around 180 branches across the country, with a branch in Davao opening later this year, its first in Mindanao.

The new offerings include Rosé Tteokbokki, a creamy, spicy twist on chewy rice cakes and pasta; and the Sizzling Bibimbowl, a hearty rice dish available in original and spicy flavors. They’re changing up their beef stew, now served sizzling and offering a boneless option for their fried chicken. For drinks and desserts, Café Koreano blends rich coffee with milky Korean snow ice, and adding more options for Bingsu (a shaved ice dessert).

Part of the menu’s expansion comes from being awarded Most Influential Brand in the Korean Restaurant Category by InfluentialBrands late last year. “We’re not just fried chicken. We’re (now) a Korean restaurant,” said Scott Tan, Managing Director of Scottland Food Group Corp. in an interview with BusinessWorld. “That gave us more inspiration to really develop Korean heritage in Bonchon.”

He said that Bonchon, headquartered in South Korea, has given them liberty to develop their own dishes, and with good reason. The 180 (and counting) store count in the Philippines means that, “We’re number one. We’re even bigger than the actual owners in Korea.” Mr. Tan himself found out about Bonchon at its New York franchise while living abroad. “They really look up to us and follow our footsteps in terms of how to execute the food; the design,” he said. For starters, Bonchon was originally a beer-and-fried chicken bar, but when Mr. Tan brought it to the Philippines in 2010, he modified it into a fast-casual format to accommodate all ages. “Wala nang kids, paano yon (there won’t be kids in the original concept; how would that be)?” he said. “Now, all the new franchises, from Paris, to Malaysia…they’re copying our concept.”

From Bonchon, Mr. Tan is now exploring other ventures: he recently opened another Korean chain, Eat Pizza, with two stores. He also opened a homegrown Japanese-inspired concept, Go Bento, as well as another Asian franchise, Singapore’s Ya Kun Kaya Toast.

“What keeps me going is making sure that everyone gets to try good food,” he said. “Everyone deserves good food.” — JL Garcia

US chaos is catnip for wannabe autocrats around the world

April 10, 2025 | 12:04 am

White house — NILS HUENERFUERST-UNSPLASH

AS the Game of Thrones character Littlefinger once put it, “chaos is a ladder” for the conniving. In the real world that insight applies to the strong, too, and provides as useful a lens as any through which to view Donald Trump’s unleashing of international mayhem.

In fact, for wannabe authoritarians anywhere, still struggling to break free from the constraints of freely contested elections and independent institutions, there has never been a better moment to climb the last rungs of the ladder to absolute rule.

Take Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. He recently had a tame judiciary jail his primary political rival Ekrem Imamoglu, confident he could now deal with any backlash. Prosecutors charged the popular Istanbul mayor with corruption, but this was a clearly political decision, taken just days before he was to be named a presidential candidate.

Erdogan’s move provoked large street protests, but little of the fierce international criticism it would have drawn a few years ago. At a time of economic chaos and military insecurity, Europe simply cannot afford to prioritize the spread of democracy over those imperatives. Its overwhelming concern is to keep Turkey — a major arms producer, trade partner and NATO member — onside.

In Washington, meanwhile, Erdogan has received only praise from the chaos-maker-in-chief. Trump sees him as a kindred spirit, whose cooperation he needs on Syria, Russia and Iran. Speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the White House on Monday, the US president talked about his great relationship with the Turkish leader, and how smart he was for “taking over” Syria. Not a peep about Imamoglu.

Turkey’s main opposition party has even accused Erdogan — without offering evidence — of asking the US for permission, before making the arrest. Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek, meanwhile, said in a Tuesday Financial Times interview that he saw upsides for Turkey’s beleaguered economy in Trump’s global trade war.

Netanyahu is another good example. You might think he’d be keeping a low profile, given his contributions to the spectacular security failure that allowed Hamas to launch the most devastating attack on Jews since the Holocaust on Oct. 7, 2023. That’s since been compounded by his failure to bring back all hostages, or to destroy Hamas as he promised, after a full year and a half of war.

He’s also facing multiple investigations and court cases, at home for fraud and security leaks, and in The Hague for war crimes. He’s trying to fire Israel’s top lawyer and top domestic security official, both for transparently self-serving reasons. Israel’s high court began hearings Tuesday on whether to back those judicial constraints, or let the government fire the domestic intelligence chief responsible for investigating Netanyahu’s advisers over the leaks.

And yet, Israel’s prime minister seems anything but chastened. He recently ended a US-negotiated ceasefire in Gaza to relaunch the war with a more ambitious goal of carving out so-called buffer zones. He also blocked access for humanitarian aid and called on Palestinians to “freely make a choice to go wherever they want,” from the territory he’s making uninhabitable.

Netanyahu nonetheless scored the first visit to Washington by any leader since Trump launched a trade war with the world. He also received red carpet treatment on the way, when he stopped off in Budapest. Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban chose not only to ignore the ICC warrant for Netanyahu’s arrest, but to announce that his country would be leaving the international court’s jurisdiction.

Orban himself just launched a campaign to eliminate the “bugs” who oppose him, including non-profits such as the anti-corruption group Transparency International and what remains of Hungary’s independent media. Like Erdogan, he’s progressed much further in eliminating judicial constraints on his power than either Trump or Netanyahu. And he’s seizing the opportunity to do more.

Last month, he introduced a new LGBTQ+ law that will make gay pride marches illegal. That’s likely to meet less international resistance than it would have before the departure of Ambassador David Pressman, a US diplomat in a same-sex marriage, who was a vocal Orban critic during the Biden administration.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, meanwhile, continues to get a free pass from the new US administration, including on tariffs. That’s something Israel, Ukraine, allies with which the US already runs a trade surplus, and even the penguins of Australia’s uninhabited Heard and McDonald Islands failed to achieve.

There is, though, a major caveat to all this winning for fledged and nascent autocrats. Russia, for example, may still be the major beneficiary of Trump’s decision to dismantle the US-led world order, but it’s unclear how America’s supremely transactional leader will react to the continued snubbing of his efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Netanyahu, meanwhile, got a valuable Oval Office meeting, but he also had to kotow for it on tariffs, like a tributary leader prostrating himself before a Ming dynasty emperor in Beijing.

The key here is that a new international order of the kind people like Putin, Netanyahu and Orban crave — one without rules and institutions to limit their powers or regulate issues of trade and war — is, by definition, a world of competing nationalisms.

For now, the world’s growing crop of leaders from the populist right are united with each other, and for the most part Trump, in their opposition to the old “liberal world order” that the US created after World War II. But they should be careful what they wish for. As that common liberal enemy disappears, they’re going to find themselves increasingly at odds with each other.

Just ask Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservative Party of Canada. Until a few weeks ago, his tax cutting, “Canada First” message had seemed a winner, giving him a consistent 10-percentage-point opinion poll lead ahead of elections later this month. Now he’s fallen behind as supporters defect, worried that this MAGA look-alike may not be the man to stand up to the new, raw, nationalist threat next door.

BLOOMBERG OPINION