Globe has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with NCS, a leading technology services firm under the Singtel Group, to bolster Globe’s enterprise architecture and ICT capabilities.

With NCS being a key solution partner, Globe aims to take the digital aspirations of companies and enterprises in the Philippines further, bringing tangible transformative benefits to local communities.

“We are pleased with the ongoing collaboration with NCS and their continued support of Globe’s ICT ambitions as we continue to go through our strategic digital journey. This continued engagement stands as a testament to both companies’ commitments to better serve the needs of clients,” said Rizza Maniego-Eala, Globe’s Chief Finance Officer.

“Leveraging NCS’ technological capabilities and consulting expertise in the telco domain, we continue our efforts on developing next-generation solutions that will drive Globe’s digital transformation for improved operational flexibility, efficiency, and time-to-market,” she added.

The Globe Group’s expansive portfolio, spanning telecom, fintech, healthtech, edutech, digital marketing solutions, venture capital funding for startups, entertainment, and virtual healthcare, has made the company an indispensable player in the Philippine digital arena. This partnership with NCS is proof of the company’s dedication to staying ahead in the digital race.

The MOU inked between Globe and NCS is part of the latter’s larger initiative involving transformative partnerships with Dell Technologies, Mandiant, Visa, AI Singapore, Assurity Trusted Solutions, and the Singapore Institute of Directors. It intends to address escalating cyber threats and leverage data insights and artificial intelligence (AI) with confidence so organizations can continue to thrive in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

Ng Kuo Pin, CEO of NCS, commented on the current complexities businesses face, emphasizing the importance of collaboration.

“None of us have all the answers. We believe collaboration is the way everyone can harness technology more confidently to achieve the outcomes we want. Through our partnerships with global and leading players to harness AI, Metaverse, Digital Trust, and other technologies, clients can tap into NCS’ expanded capabilities and networks for advanced and comprehensive solutions, and together, we can better navigate the multiple complexities,” he said.

The inaugural NCS Impact forum, where the partnerships were announced, served as a platform for governments and enterprises to discuss current challenges. Held at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre, the by-invite event saw participation from over 1,000 decision makers and distinguished experts from enterprises and governments across Asia Pacific (APAC).

Discussions revolved around the role of technology in overcoming socio-political, economic, and environmental challenges, and how organizations can build resilience while fostering innovation. The forum also examined the divergent technological landscapes that have formed across markets with increased enterprise cybersecurity and national security demands.(PR)

The region’s total number of constructions decreased by -18.8 percent, from 1,334 constructions recorded in the 2nd quarter of 2022 to 1,083 constructions in the 2nd quarter of 2023.

The regional decline was brought about by the significant drop in the combined number of additions/alterations and repair by -57.5 percent, from 167 constructions in the 2nd quarter of 2022 to 71 constructions in the 2nd quarter of 2023.

Also, the number of residential buildings declined by -20.2 percent, posting 669 constructions in the 2nd quarter of 2023 from 838 constructions in the2nd quarter of 2022.
On the other hand, the number of non-residential buildings increased from 329 constructions in the 2nd quarter of 2022 to 343 constructions during the quarter in review, an increase by 4.3 percent.

The number of residential buildings comprised 61.8 percent of the total constructions in the region, while non-residential buildings and additions/alterations and repairs accounted for 31.7 percent and 6.6 percent, respectively.

The total value of constructions in the region in the 2nd quarter of 2023 was estimated at P 2.6 billion. This figure is -32.4 percent lower than the P3.9 billion total value of constructions in the 2nd quarter of 2022.

This decrease was attributed to the -56.0 percent drop in the total value of non-residential buildings, from P2.6 billion in the 2nd quarter of 2022 to P1.2 billion in the 2nd quarter of 2023.

However, this decline was mitigated by the 142.3 percent and 3.0 percent growths in the aggregate value of additions/alterations and repairs of existing structures and total value of residential buildings, respectively.

The aggregate value of additions/alterations and repairs of existing structures went up to P0.3 billion in the 2nd quarter of 2023 from P0.1 billion in the 2nd quarter of 2022.
Meanwhile, the total value of residential buildings increased to P1.12 billion in the 2nd quarter of 2023 from P1.09 billion in the 2nd quarter of 2022.

Non-residential buildings’ value of construction comprised 44.4 percent of the total value of constructions in the region.

The value of construction of residential buildings contributed 43.2 percent. Meanwhile, additions/ alterations and repairs accounted for 12.3 percent of the region’s total value of constructions in the 2nd quarter of 2023.

Average cost of construction per square meter was estimated at P11,738 for residential buildings and P9,959 for non – residential buildings.

Data were based on the preliminary results of construction statistics from approved building permits.(PR)

ORMOC CITY-The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has successfully dismantled another drug den which resulted in the arrest of three suspects in Mayorga, Leyte on Tuesday (Sept.12).

PDEA Regional Director Atty. Gil Pabilona identified the suspects as Victoriano Jr., Roquiño,32, the alleged maintainer of the drug den and his live in partner Lisa Montallana,42, and Leo De Paz, 21, single.

The three were arrested while inside the drug den located in Poblacion Zone 1 in the said town at about 12:05 am.

The operatives recovered from Roquiño four sachets containing suspected shabu with street value of P81,600.

Charges of violations of sections 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, and 15 of Article II of R.A 9165 the Comprehensive Law against Illegal Drugs of 2002 were filed by PDEA against the three suspects who are temporarily detained at the locked-up of Mayorga municipal police station.(ROBERT DEJON)

TACLOBAN CITY– The construction of the shore protection project along the Old Road, Sagkahan District, this city, is now near completion.

This was announced by Engr. Johnny Acosta, head of the Tacloban City District Engineering Office.

The P474.35 million worth project aims to protect the villages located along the shore protection project of possible storm surges, and coastal erosion, among others.
The Sagkahan district was one of the areas in the city that was hard hit when Super Typhoon ‘Yolanda’ hit the city a decade ago.

The shore protection project spans 446.80 linear meters and is now at 74.99% completion, the office said on its report.

This accomplishment is within the 269 calendar days of its supposed completion.

“The construction of the shore protection project is a testament to our commitment to building a resilient city. We are working diligently to complete this project, which will not only protect our coastline but also contribute to the overall development and safety of Tacloban City,” Acosta said.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)