Global Study Highlights IT Modernization as Executive Priority Amid Key Challenges

A new global study underscores the importance top executives place on IT modernization, with businesses allocating up to 30% of their technology budgets toward upgrades over the next two years. Artificial intelligence (AI) readiness emerges as a central focus in these modernization efforts. However, while ambitions are high, many organizations struggle to realize substantial returns on their investments. The research, conducted by IDC and sponsored by Rocket Software, surveyed over 800 IT leaders across nine countries and various industries. Findings reveal that nearly two-thirds of executives prioritize modernization, yet progress is hindered by three primary obstacles: cybersecurity threats, legacy system burdens (often referred to as "technical debt"), and a shortage of skilled personnel. ### Organizational Objectives Companies identify their primary modernization goals as enhancing operational efficiency, fostering innovation, and improving customer satisfaction. Those adopting a comprehensive modernization strategy that encompasses infrastructure, data, applications, personnel, security measures, and AI preparedness report experiencing twice the benefits compared to those with a narrower approach. ### Challenges Impeding Progress - **Cybersecurity concerns:** 51% of respondents cite cybersecurity as their top challenge. - **Data issues:** 43% struggle with poor data quality and fragmented systems. - **Talent shortages:** 39% identify insufficient training and skilled staff as barriers. ### Key Findings - **AI Integration:** Nearly 44% of businesses prioritize building AI-ready systems. Among leading organizations, 82% have already implemented AI-ready infrastructure, tripling the adoption rate of their peers. - **Cybersecurity and Resilience:** 57% intend to make system protection and recovery from cyberattacks their foremost investment focus in 2025. - **Data Management:** Top-performing companies emphasize improving data quality and ensuring reliable data governance. - **Mainframe Modernization:** Despite newer technologies, 26% of companies plan to modernize mainframes to better integrate with enterprise systems. - **Workforce Expansion:** Half of the organizations plan to increase their IT workforce, concentrating on AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity expertise. ### Expert Insights Michael Curry, President of Data Modernization at Rocket Software, noted, "Businesses are investing heavily in AI, automation, and cloud technologies. Yet without a clear strategy that prioritizes security, governance, and staff training, outcomes frequently fall short of expectations." Mary Johnston Turner from IDC added that the key to success lies not only in adopting new technologies but also in the ability to adapt and scale effectively. "Organizations that embrace a holistic approach to modernization are better equipped to navigate risks, break down data silos, and sustain innovation," she said.

Globe Launches SMS Scam Shield to Combat Text-Based Phishing Threats

Globe has introduced an SMS Scam Shield feature within its GlobeOne app aimed at shielding subscribers from a rising number of text-based scams, especially phishing attempts masquerading as legitimate Globe or GCash communications. Initially rolled out for Android users, this new functionality reinforces Globe's commitment to safeguarding customers against increasingly complex fraud schemes. Phishing and spoofing attacks frequently imitate trusted organizations such as telecommunications providers, financial institutions, or digital wallet services, tricking recipients into clicking harmful links or divulging private information. Recently, scammers have escalated their tactics by employing illicit devices like IMSI catchers, which imitate cell towers to disseminate fraudulent messages broadly. "SMS Scam Shield is designed to give our customers more control and peace of mind," stated Coco Domingo, Globe's Vice President for Product Experience. "By alerting users to suspicious texts containing potentially malicious links or counterfeit Globe-related sender IDs, we're working to create a safer digital environment for our subscribers." Once enabled via the GlobeOne app, Scam Shield analyzes messages locally on the device and notifies users if a text is deemed suspicious. It identifies fraudulent sender names such as "GLOBE," "GLOBEREWARD," and "GCASH," and intercepts phishing links before they reach the user. Globe has emphasized that this feature prioritizes user privacy by neither storing nor reading message content, collecting only malicious URLs to enhance threat detection algorithms. The feature has gained rapid adoption, with over 34,000 users activating Scam Shield and more than 13,000 phishing attempts detected within weeks of its launch. Available at no cost to Globe subscribers, the feature can be activated through the "Profile" and "Security Settings" sections of the GlobeOne app. Subscribers are also encouraged to participate in Globe's community reporting initiative by forwarding suspicious messages to www.globe.com.ph/stop-spam. SMS Scam Shield is part of Globe's broader cybersecurity strategy, paving the way for more advanced, AI-driven protections across its platforms. "Security shouldn't be an afterthought'', Domingo added. "This is just the beginning of more proactive tools we're integrating to safeguard our customers."

HUAWEI Launches Cutting-Edge Wearables and Devices at Global Innovation Event in Paris

Under the banner "Ride the Wind," HUAWEI showcased an impressive range of next-generation products during its Global Innovative Product Launch held in Paris. The event prominently featured the latest wearables—the WATCH GT 6 Series, WATCH Ultimate 2, and WATCH D2—which blend sophisticated design with cutting-edge health and fitness technologies. Complementing these were the nova 14 Series smartphones, FreeBuds 7i wireless earbuds, and the MatePad 12 X tablet, each delivering notable advancements in imaging, audio, and creative capabilities. Leading the wearable innovations, the WATCH GT 6 Series builds on HUAWEI's position as the world leader in wearable shipments for the first half of 2025, according to IDC. Following the success of over 10 million units of the WATCH GT 5, the new series offers an impressive battery life of up to 21 days, enhanced outdoor positioning accuracy, and introduces the TruSense System for accelerated and precise health monitoring. The series supports four specialized outdoor sports modes with professional-grade features: cycling now includes a virtual power meter that provides detailed performance analytics without extra devices; trail running offers precise location tracking with altitude and gradient insights; golf mode features high-resolution fairway maps with infinite zoom capability; and skiing mode delivers accurate data and tracking for safe and exciting runs. Pushing the envelope further, the WATCH Ultimate 2 emerges as the world's first smartwatch certified for diving up to 150 meters, integrating unique underwater audio communication functions. Utilizing sonar technology, it enables watch-to-watch messaging within a 30-meter range and provides one-touch SOS alerts up to 60 meters, addressing the needs of professional divers and deep-sea adventurers. Expanding its device portfolio, HUAWEI unveiled the WATCH D2 in a striking Blue variant, boasting enhanced fitness tracking and improved blood pressure monitoring. The nova 14 Series elevates mobile photography with its Ultra Chroma Camera, powered by an upgraded XD Portrait Engine and AI-assisted editing tools that deliver studio-quality portraits. Meanwhile, the MatePad 12 X PaperMatte Edition, bundled with the M-Pencil Pro, offers a natural paper-like writing experience. This launch coincides with the expansion of the GoPaint Worldwide Creating Activity 2025, which now includes an Animation category aimed at inspiring digital artists worldwide. Central to the event was HUAWEI's introduction of its new brand vision, "Now Is Yours," emphasizing openness, inclusivity, and deeper connections with younger generations. The initiative signifies the company’s dedication to merging innovation with empathy to empower young creators to express themselves and shape their futures. Looking forward, HUAWEI commits to leveraging technological innovation as a bridge connecting culture, creativity, and community by developing products that foster personal growth, exploration, and collaboration. For further details on HUAWEI’s latest wearables and devices, visit: https://consumer.huawei.com/ph/wearables/.

Saudi Arabia and Other Nations Raise Concerns Over Filipino Domestic Workers' Wage Increase

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has confirmed that several countries have expressed reservations regarding the newly approved wage increase for Filipino domestic workers. This follows reports indicating that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) specifically opposes the policy change. In an online interview on September 22, 2025, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac acknowledged these concerns but refrained from naming the countries involved. He stated, \"I won\'t specify which countries or their number, but rest assured, there are several who have raised issues.\" The DMW recently issued Advisory No. 25-2025, which sets the new minimum monthly wage for Filipino domestic workers at US$500, up from US$400. This adjustment aims to improve the livelihoods of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) but has met with dissatisfaction from some labor destination countries. Recruitment consultant Emmanuel Geslani also noted that Saudi authorities had voiced their displeasure with the wage hike decision. Secretary Cacdac emphasized the importance of balancing the concerns of host countries with the welfare of OFWs, stating, \"We have to consider the nuances and specific situations where our overseas workers are employed.\" He added that these considerations would be integrated while formulating the implementing guidelines for the new wage policy. The Department plans to finalize these guidelines by mid to late October, allowing time to address the issues raised and ensure a smooth transition to the updated wage structure.

mWell Launches Special Edition UAAP Season 88 Smart Watches to Promote Wellness and School Pride

Pasig, Philippines, 17 September 2025 — To mark the start of UAAP Season 88, mWell, the country's premier integrated health and wellness application, has unveiled its Special Edition UAAP Smart Watches. The new collection offers refreshed designs highlighting eight universities through distinct team colors and custom watch faces, blending school pride with everyday health management. The line-up includes three models tailored to different lifestyles: the mWell Prestige Sport Watch, equipped with GPS, altimeter, barometer, and AMOLED display for athletes requiring advanced functionality; the mWell Prestige Watch, which balances premium aesthetics with comprehensive health tracking; and the mWell Power Watch, designed to support day-to-day wellness needs. "Sports symbolizes discipline, resilience, and community—values that resonate deeply with young Filipinos," said Manuel V. Pangilinan, mWell Chairman and Metro Pacific Investments Corporation CEO. "These special edition smart watches serve as constant reminders to the UAAP community to lead healthier, more connected lives." UAAP Executive Director Rene "Rebo" Saguisag emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, "Season 88 embodies the spirit of 'Strength in Motion, Hope in Action.' Together with mWell, we encourage student-athletes and the broader community to embrace wellness in every aspect of life." Featuring advanced health monitoring technologies, the smart watches track blood pressure, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and integrate with the mWell app to deliver comprehensive wellness insights. With over 100 exercise modes, step counters, sedentary reminders, and sleep tracking, users can set personalized goals and maintain balanced health. The devices offer a seven-day battery life, water resistance, and robust durability to keep up with active routines. Priced starting at ₱2,499, each watch includes an additional strap and free shipping when purchased through the mWell app e-shop. The collection is available at mWell booths located in SM Mall of Asia Arena and Smart Araneta Coliseum during UAAP games, as well as online. Gary Dujali, mWell Chief Marketing Officer, added, "Our goal is to make wellness accessible to all. These smart watches are not only stylish expressions of university pride but also tools that motivate young Filipinos to adopt lifelong healthy habits." mWell operates under Metro Pacific Health Tech Corporation, backed by Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, and contributes to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. The platform also supports the MVP Group's Gabay Kalusugan advocacy, promoting affordable, quality healthcare. For more information, interested individuals can download the mWell app from Apple Store and Google Play Store or visit shop.mwell.com.ph. Follow mWell on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for updates and exclusive offers.

BBVA Increases Bid for Sabadell in Hostile Takeover Attempt

Spanish banking giant BBVA has announced an improved takeover proposal for Banco Sabadell, increasing its offer by 10 percent to €3.39 per share. This revised bid values Sabadell at approximately €19.5 billion ($22.9 billion). The move comes amid BBVA's continued efforts to convince Sabadell shareholders before the October 7 deadline to accept the hostile takeover. The announcement follows Sabadell's firm refusal of BBVA's initial offer, which the smaller bank's board criticized for undervaluing the institution and urged shareholders to reject. BBVA, Spain's second-largest bank with considerable operations in Latin America and Turkey, confirmed it will not extend the offer deadline or further enhance the bid. Carlos Torres Vila, BBVA's chairman, emphasized the significance of the new proposal, stating, \"With this improved offer, we are putting an extraordinary proposal in the hands of Banco Sabadell shareholders.\" Sabadell's CEO, Cesar Gonzalez-Bueno, dismissed the updated offer on a radio interview, describing it as \"very weak\" and \"even worse,\" highlighting the bank's improved market valuation since the bid's announcement. The leadership remains steadfast in preserving the bank's independence, underscoring the uncertainty surrounding the bid's outcome given Sabadell’s dispersed ownership, where no single investor controls more than seven percent. The acquisition bid launched by BBVA in May 2024 aims to forge a major European banking competitor on par with Santander, BNP Paribas, and HSBC. The tender offer officially opened on September 8 and will close on October 7, leaving Sabadell shareholders to decide the future of the fourth-largest bank in Spain.

Alexandra Eala Aims for Top 50 Debut at 2025 Jingshan Tennis Open

JINGSHAN, China — Alexandra “Alex” Eala, the rising Filipina tennis sensation, commences her 2025 Jingshan Tennis Open journey as the tournament's top seed. The WTA 125 event runs from September 22 to 28, and Eala will face World No. 212 Aliona Falei of Belarus in the Round of 32. The 20-year-old athlete has enjoyed a remarkable 2025 season, marked by several historic achievements. She became the first Filipina to enter the WTA top 100, advanced inside the top 60, reached her maiden WTA Tour final, and secured her first Grand Slam main draw victory at the US Open held in New York City. Eala has opted to participate in the Jingshan Tennis Open as she begins her Asian circuit, choosing the WTA 125 event over the more prominent China Open. Currently ranked No. 58 in the WTA standings, she is just two spots shy of her career-best ranking of No. 56, which she first attained earlier this year in June. The Jingshan tournament presents Eala with a prime opportunity to improve her ranking further. Victory here would award her 125 ranking points, the same as she earned at her previous WTA 125 title win in Guadalajara against World No. 118 Panna Udvardy. Without any ranking points to defend this week, a championship win could boost her total from 1,083 to approximately 1,208 points, potentially breaking into the top 50 for the first time. This event could mark another significant milestone in Eala’s burgeoning career as she continues to carve out her place among the world’s elite in women’s tennis.

Muntinlupa City Partners with Teleperformance to Advance IT-BPM Training for Students

Students from Muntinlupa City Technical Institute (MCTI) and participants of the city’s Supervised Industry Learning (SIL) program are set to benefit from enhanced hands-on training in the IT-business process management (IT-BPM) sector. This opportunity arises from a newly signed memorandum of agreement between the Muntinlupa local government, MCTI, and TP, a digital business services provider operating under the global Teleperformance Group. Through this partnership, TP will offer practical industry exposure and skill development initiatives designed to equip students with the competencies needed for successful employment within the IT-BPM industry. Jeffrey Johnson, TP-Philippines' Chief People Officer, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, stating, \"By giving students real-world training and a clear pathway to employment, we are not just investing in their future, but in the future of the IT-BPM industry itself. We are excited to welcome the next generation of talent and help them launch meaningful careers right here in Muntinlupa City.\" This program aligns with Muntinlupa City's broader \"7K Agenda,\" which focuses on enhancing livelihood, workforce readiness, and healthcare initiatives. Johnson further noted that the training program does not have a fixed enrollment limit, reflecting TP’s commitment to fostering strong connections between educational institutions and the industry. This initiative follows similar successful partnerships with academic institutions such as those in Bacolod City and Northern Negros State University.

PAGCOR Awards Php Millions in 2025 Photography Contest Celebrating Infrastructure

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) unveiled the 24 grand winners of its 2025 Photography Contest on Tuesday, distributing prizes amounting to several million pesos. The competition attracted close to 4,000 submissions nationwide from both amateur and professional photographers competing in Conventional, Mobile, and Drone categories. This year, the contest revolved around the theme "Infrastructure for Economic Development," highlighting how infrastructure projects contribute to the nation’s growth and development. Eight grand champions in the Conventional category each received Php 100,000, while 16 winners from the Mobile and Drone categories were awarded Php 50,000 apiece. Consolation prizes were also given, with Php 35,000 awarded in the Conventional division and Php 20,000 in the Mobile and Drone segments. PAGCOR Chairperson and CEO Alejandro Tengco lauded the winners and underscored the organization’s commitment to fostering Filipino creativity. He stated, \"Your extraordinary talent shows us that Filipino creativity is world-class. While PAGCOR’s primary responsibilities include regulation, revenue generation, and tourism promotion, we are equally proud of initiatives like this that nurture talent and provide Filipinos with opportunities to shine.\" Tengco further noted that this year’s theme serves as a reminder that \"infrastructure is not just concrete and steel, but lifelines of progress that connect families, fuel industries, and open doors to opportunities.\" Among the laureates were repeat champions, with Janice Tadoyo capturing the top prize again in the Conventional category and Marlo Demo-os securing another win in the Drone category after their successes in 2024. Other past winners such as Celbert Palaganas, Aljon Tugaoen, and Anthony Into were also recognized for their continued excellence. Looking ahead, Tengco announced that the theme for the 2026 Photography Contest will be "Kids@Play," focusing on the joyful moments of children at play and how these experiences foster important values like discipline, perseverance, sportsmanship, and resilience.

U.S. Ryder Cup Players to Donate Stipends Amid Pay-for-Play Debate

At the Ryder Cup event held at Bethpage Black, several members of the U.S. golf team addressed the recent controversy surrounding player compensation. For the first time, each American player will receive a $200,000 stipend in addition to the $300,000 allocated for charity, marking a significant increase from the previous $200,000 charity-only amount in place since 1999. This new financial arrangement by the PGA of America has sparked some backlash, particularly because European team members are neither receiving monetary rewards nor seeking them. However, U.S. players have emphasized that they intend to donate all stipend earnings to charitable causes. Scottie Scheffler shared his commitment to philanthropy, stating, \"I’ve never been one to announce what we do. I don’t like to give charitable dollars for some kind of recognition. We have something planned for the money that we’ll be receiving. I think it’s a really cool thing that the PGA of America has empowered us to do.\" Scheffler also expressed a strong connection to his hometown of Dallas and the charities he supports there. Similarly, world number four Xander Schauffele highlighted the pride he feels representing the United States and the positive impact the stipend can have. \"You guys keep talking about it and trying to make it this negative thing. It’s whatever everyone views it as,\" Schauffele told reporters. \"I don’t think I’d be sitting up on this stage if I didn’t have a positive attitude, and I try to look at this in the most positive of lights possible: An opportunity to do some good, which isn’t always the case.\" The topic resurfaced following reports from the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome, where Patrick Cantlay’s refusal to wear a Team USA hat was interpreted by some as a protest against compensation issues. Cantlay clarified that the hat did not fit properly and confirmed he will donate any funds earned this week to his chosen charity. \"One of the great things about these team events for me is there’s always such a big charitable component to it, and so I’m going to donate the money to my charity,\" he said. U.S. Captain Keegan Bradley defended the decision to pay players, asserting that the move modernizes the competition. He also plans to contribute his stipend to charity. \"This change brings the Ryder Cup into today’s age,\" Bradley remarked. The stance of the U.S. team underscores their desire to use the new financial provisions to support causes important to them, rejecting notions that compensation conflicts with the spirit of the event.