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TECHNOLOGY

SCG elevates construction with the sustainable, innovative Smartboard Ultra

9:15 p.m. January 19, 2024

SCG, a leading force in the ASEAN construction industry with over a century of expertise, has introduced its groundbreaking Smartboard Ultra to the Philippine market. This innovative product, manufactured in Thailand, is a fusion of cutting-edge technology and environmental consciousness, setting a new benchmark for sustainable construction solutions.

The Smartboard Ultra boasts a revolutionary new formula that redefines the standards for construction boards. At its heart lies SCG’s advanced Firm & Flex™ technology, ensuring unparalleled durability and flexibility. This unique combination allows for effortless handling and installation while maintaining exceptional strength and resilience against the rigors of modern construction.

It also boasts an enhanced formula incorporating cutting-edge Anti-Mold Technology, specifically engineered to thrive in humid tropical climates. This crucial feature provides superior protection against mold and mildew growth, safeguarding both the structural integrity of your building and the health and well-being of its occupants.

SCG remains committed to environmental sustainability. The Smartboard Ultra is proudly asbestos-free and manufactured using low-carbon processes, minimizing its environmental impact. This eco-conscious approach aligns with the growing demand for sustainable building materials and contributes to a healthier planet.” 

Moreover, the Smartboard Ultra’s prestigious Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Certification from EPD International further solidifies its commitment to sustainability, which SCG has long maintained regarding its products, services, and operations. The EPD verifies the product’s environmental impact throughout its lifecycle, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and promote responsible construction practices.

EPDs are a valuable tool in the quest for LEED certification, as they provide verified data about the environmental impacts of materials and products used in a building. They help project teams make better, more sustainable material choices, support energy and carbon reduction goals, and ensure compliance with LEED credits related to materials and resource efficiency. This transparency and data-driven approach align well with the broader goals of green building practices and sustainable development in the construction industry.

Chanon Sangkaew, Export Manager, Housing Product  Business at SCG

“This launch is a testament to SCG’s dedication to serving our customers with solutions that address their specific needs,” said Chanon Sangkaew, Export Manager, Housing Product  Business at SCG. “By integrating advanced anti-mold technology and green properties into our Smartboard Ultra, we are not only improving product performance but also aligning with global sustainability goals.”

Incorporating eco-friendly practices into the design and construction of buildings in the Philippines is essential for addressing the nation’s environmental challenges, reducing operational costs, and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. As architects, developers, and government agencies continue to embrace sustainable development, the long-term benefits of eco-friendly architecture will become even more evident, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future for the country.

SCG is a leading regional force in the construction materials industry, providing innovative and sustainable solutions for modern building needs. With a rich history spanning more than a century, SCG remains dedicated to achieving excellence, prioritizing sustainability, and exceeding the expectations of its esteemed customers.

The arrival of the Smartboard Ultra in the Philippines marks a significant milestone for SCG. The product offers a reliable and high-performance solution for residential and commercial projects to meet the specific requirements of the Filipino construction market. This launch underscores SCG’s dedication to serving the growing needs of the ASEAN region with innovative and sustainable construction materials.

SCG continues to solidify its position as a pioneer in construction innovation. By seamlessly integrating advanced anti-mold technology, the exceptional durability of Firm & Flex™, and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, the Smartboard Ultra sets a new standard for modern construction. It addresses the market’s evolving needs while prioritizing customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility.

“As the leading regional force in constructional materials for 111 years, SCG continues to drive innovation and sustainability. The SCG Smartboard Ultra, a testament to this commitment, is now readily available through authorized SCG distributors across the Philippines, making it easily accessible for Filipinos’ construction needs.” 

For more information on the Smartboard Ultra and its transformative capabilities, please visit SCG Brand Philippines in FB Page. 

TECHNOLOGY

Shell empowers Filipino SMEs thru award-winning Fleet App

5:09 p.m. July 8, 2025

Shell Pilipinas Corporation is empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the country through the Shell Fleet App (SFA), a first-of-its-kind mobile solution that streamlines fleet and fuel management in a secure and paperless way.

Launched in 2022, the app allows business owners to manage their Shell Fleet Card, control fuel spend, track driver activity, and access real-time reports, all in one platform. By simplifying traditional processes and eliminating paperwork and manual tracking, SFA gives SMEs the ability to operate with greater ease, visibility, and efficiency.

A Digital Response to a Growing SME Sector

With SMEs comprising 99.5% of registered businesses in the Philippines, Shell saw a critical need for tools tailored to their daily challenges. The app condenses the typical fleet card application process into just five minutes and has already contributed to a tenfold increase in SME customer acquisitions. According to Deepti Behl, Global Head of SMEs GM of Digital Products & Marketing at Shell Fleet Solutions, the app helps owners reclaim their time and streamline operations. “We designed the app to empower SME owners to manage their fleets anytime, anywhere. It reduces admin work, offers peace of mind, and enables entrepreneurs to focus on growth.”

Transforming Daily Operations

From automotive to retail and construction, Shell Fleet App users from various sectors have reported positive results. Business owners describe smoother daily operations, real-time visibility of fuel spend, and faster driver and expense management, all while on the go. Their testimonials reinforce SFA as not just a convenience but a business enabler.

With its core benefits, the app is purpose-built for Filipino SMEs. Whether it’s tracking fuel usage in real time, enabling seamless automated payments, or offering savings for the purchase of Shell lubricants, the app provides everyday value while helping ease cash flow pressures for small business owners.

Recognized Across Asia for Innovation

The Shell Fleet App’s breakthrough approach has earned multiple regional and international recognitions. Most recently, it won its third award, the Stevie Award at the 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, further cementing its status as a world-class solution for small and medium enterprises. The app was also previously named Digital Transformation Initiative of the Year for the Philippines at the 2024 Asian Oil & Gas Awards and received the User Experience of the Year for Energy at the 2022 Asian Experience Awards. These accolades highlight Shell’s commitment to digital innovation that directly improves the way businesses operate.

A Future-Focused Commitment

Shell Pilipinas remains focused on developing tech-driven tools that help Filipino entrepreneurs grow and thrive. With regular updates informed by user feedback, the Shell Fleet App continues to evolve, shaping the future of fuel and fleet management for SMEs nationwide.

The Shell Fleet App is available for download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. SMEs can get started in minutes by downloading the app, signing up, and instantly unlocking access to Shell Fleet Card benefits. For more information, customers may visit the Shell Fleet Card for Small Business website or call the Shell Customer Service Hotline at +632 8878 8811.

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TECHNOLOGY

Canva breaks ground as first design connector for OpenAI’s ChatGPT

3:22 p.m. July 6, 2025

In a landmark leap for AI-powered creativity, Canva has become the first design platform to deeply embed its creative suite into the world’s most advanced AI tools, including ChatGPT.

Two major launches – the deep research connector with ChatGPT and the Canva Model Context Protocol (MCP) Server – turn Canva into a powerful AI platform that plugs seamlessly into AI assistants and agents to securely access your designs and generate new ones, all within the same conversation.

As businesses and creators increasingly adopt AI-first workflows, Canva is pioneering a new era of AI-native design. Whether analyzing a marketing campaign, drafting a business plan, or generating social content, you can now brainstorm, design, and publish without leaving your AI assistant, unlocking new levels of creativity and speed.

By bringing Canva’s creative power directly into AI assistants, Canva is redefining how its 240 million users, including 95% of Fortune 500 companies, design, collaborate, and communicate, streamlining the entire content journey from concept to completion.

“AI agents and assistants have become indispensable creative partners, yet current workflows require users to manually add context or references, creating complexity,” said Anwar Haneef, GM and Head of Ecosystem at Canva. “We’re embedding Canva directly into the AI tools people use every day so they can brainstorm, create, and publish content faster. This is a major step in our vision to make the complex simple and build an all-in-one AI workflow that’s secure and accessible to all.”

Your Canva designs, accessible in ChatGPT
Canva’s deep research connector with ChatGPT will now connect users’ designs directly to OpenAI’s most advanced model, enabling specific, thoughtful, and context-rich responses grounded in your past work. Without needing to switch between tabs or dig for information, users can simply prompt ChatGPT to analyze or refine content across Canva Docs, Presentations, and more. With instant access to your design history, this integration removes friction and makes cross-platform creation and collaboration effortless.

Privacy and security are built in from the ground up. Every interaction is protected by Canva Shield, the company’s comprehensive AI trust and safety framework.

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TECHNOLOGY

Acer maintains No. 1 personal computer market share in Philippines

12:11 p.m. July 5, 2025

Acer secured the top position in the Philippine personal computer market in Q1 2025, with a 35.7% total market share, a 34.2% share in consumer notebooks, and an impressive 40.6% share in gaming laptops, according to market research firm GfK.

Acer also delivered a strong performance in April, with its notebook segment reaching a 36% market share, further cementing its dominance. 

Acer’s success can be credited to a multi-faceted marketing approach, including strategic partnerships with brand ambassadors. This method has proven very effective in expanding Acer’s nationwide reach and strengthening its local branding efforts.

A prime example is Acer’s partnership with the “Kings of P-pop,” SB19. This collaboration has been key in maintaining Acer’s relevance to its customer base, especially among the younger demographic. The partnership between Acer and SB19 began before their official ambassadorship for Acer Day and endorsement with Acer and Acerpure in 2021.

“Our partnership with SB19 works because we share the same values and energy. Also, the group’s strong social media presence and its ability to create engaging content have allowed us to reach and connect with our customers,” said Sue Ong-Lim, Managing Director at Acer Philippines.

Recently, Acer co-presented SB19’s “Simula at Wakas” world tour stop in Taiwan, further strengthening the brand’s connection with SB19’s fans. SB19 also visited Acer’s Taipei headquarters as “one-day employees” to experience the brand’s innovations firsthand. 

Acer Chairman and CEO Jason Chen, along with Pan-Asia Pacific President Andrew Hou, personally met with the group and gifted each member a Predator Helios 18 gaming laptop.

During the group’s visit to Taiwan, SB19 visited Acer’s product experience center. They also tried the latest gaming laptops and the FreeSense Ring smart wearable developed by Acer Fashion. They participated in a design workshop to brainstorm ideas for laptop aesthetics and compact home appliances.  As the partnership marks its fifth year, Acer and SB19 look forward to more fruitful and productive years together.

For more information about Acer, follow Acer Philippines on its social media platforms: @AcerPH on Facebook, @acerph on Instagram, and @acerphils on Twitter, or go to www.acer.com. 

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