Lars Voedish (Founder and Group CEO) and Paolo Alba (Country Lead and Regional Business Director) thanking partners for the continued trust and support in the Philippines and Southeast Asia 

PRecious Communications, an award-winning multi-market integrated communications agency, is celebrating its second anniversary in the Philippines. Highlighting a 2.5x year-to-date growth in business from established partnerships with industry leaders in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, PRecious Philippines is positioned to scale its operations further to support the evolving challenges of the market.

As businesses manage the impact of global headwinds, PRecious Philippines remains optimistic about the opportunities it has been seeing in the market.

“The Philippines continues to be one of the fastest growing markets in Southeast Asia. Despite the challenges brought about by inflation, its economy grew by 5.7% in 2023 and is expected to increase by 6% in 2024. The Philippines is also primed to reach a digital economy worth US$35 billion in 2025, representing the significance of the market and the role that we have to play. As we help businesses reach more customers and consumers, we also hope to support the growth of the Philippine economy,” said Lars Voedisch, Founder and Group CEO, PRecious Communications.

 

PRecious Philippines has grown into a team of close to fifteen consultants since it launched its operations in 2022. It has expanded its local–regional capabilities and diversified its portfolio with global leading companies, which include the global leader in digital payments Visa, APAC leader in data science and AI Aboitiz Data Innovation, and leader in health and wellness LAC, among additions to its established technology and startup practice.

At the helm of this is Paolo Alba, who has been spearheading the growth and development of PRecious Communications in the Philippines as Country Lead and Regional Business Director since it was established in 2022.

“As economic activity picked up in 2022, we saw it as an opportunity to leverage our regional network and grow our local capabilities to support foreign businesses that were entering the Philippines. Meanwhile, this also opened opportunities to support local businesses that were extending their footprints in Southeast Asia. As a regional player in a local market, it almost felt natural to support these segments,” explained Paolo Alba.

“This helped establish PRecious Philippines’ core strength and capabilities in B2B – leveraging our presence in key markets of Southeast Asia, knowledge of the local and regional business landscape, and relationships with relevant stakeholder groups – to implement strategic and market-relevant communication programs that address business challenges. Now that we are seeing more businesses engage consumers online and offline, we are actively growing our B2C capabilities to support the market further,” added Alba. 

Fueling the next Phase of Startup-powered Growth

As the business community navigates through times of global uncertainty, PRecious Philippines reaffirms its commitment to finding innovative solutions to support startup companies that fueled PRecious’ initial growth in the region and especially in the Philippines. In support of Filipino startup founders and entrepreneurs, PRecious Philippines is developing an exclusive startup offering that is meant to help early and mid-stage startups kickstart and elevate the traction they require to influence their next phase of growth: from investments to client acquisition or building a partnership ecosystem.

About PRecious Communications:

PRecious Communications is an award-winning multi-market integrated communications agency specializing in go-to-market strategies and integrated communications for clients across Southeast Asia, including Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam, with partners in Asia Pacific. With over 10 years of experience, the agency has delivered impactful results for diverse industries, such as tech, finance, healthcare, and consumer goods. In 2019, PRecious Communications joined the GlobalCom PR Network as its Southeast Asia representative, an association of 80 independent PR agencies in over 100 countries worldwide. Most recently, PRecious Communications bagged Gold for “PR Team of the Year” at the Marketing Interactive PR Awards 2022, and Gold at the 2023 APAC Stevie Awards for "Most Innovative PR Agency of the Year." 

End-to-end digitalization of insurance is becoming a crucial strategy to boost insurance penetration in the Philippines, especially as recent data indicates a decline in coverage across the country. In 2023, insurance penetration in the Philippines sank to 1.6%, lower than the 1.73% recorded in 2022.  This decline highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions to make insurance more accessible and appealing to a broader population.

Igloo, a regional insurtech, addresses low insurance penetration by leveraging technology and partnerships to streamline operations across the entire insurance value chain–from insurance and intermediaries to consumers. By digitalizing processes throughout the ecosystem, Igloo enables faster, more efficient services, seamlessly integrating insurance into everyday digital interactions such as e-commerce and travel bookings.

DriveEmpowering Intermediaries with a Digital Platform

One key aspect of this digital transformation is the creation of digital platforms for intermediaries. Traditionally, insurance intermediaries rely on manual processes from onboard customers to settling claims, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors. Digital tools allow intermediaries to streamline the entire process from customer onboarding to claim settlement. These tools help manage customer information, assess needs, and complete transactions faster and more accurately. As a result, intermediaries can focus more on building relationships with current and potential clients, rather than being burdened by administrative tasks.

Ignite introduced Igloo, a digital platform that helps insurance intermediaries sell more efficiently. Key features include a user-friendly interface for faster browsing, a quick quote system for instant premium calculations, secure payment processing, and tools for team and data management to simplify reporting. It also tracks referral fees in real time, depositing them directly into bank accounts. Launched in Vietnam in 2022, Indonesia in 2023, and now in the Philippines, Igloo offers 42 products across 9 categories, including Travel, Pet, and Motor protection. It was awarded Mobile App of the Year - Vietnam at the Insurance Asia Awards 2024.

Facilitating a Seamless Digital Experience through Embedded Insurance

Igloo is transforming the insurance landscape by providing a seamless, end-to-end digital experience through embedded insurance. As an insurtech platform, it enables businesses to integrate insurance products into their platforms, facilitating seamless policy applications, purchase, and claims management. This reduces friction for both insurance providers and distributors, streamlining complex tasks such as underwriting, policy issuance, and claims processing, making the entire system more efficient and user-friendly.

Igloo partners with online platforms like Lazada and Shopee, as well as payment services like DANA in Indonesia and GCash in the Philippines, and retail chains like Circle K in Vietnam, to develop customized and embedded insurance products that integrate smoothly into digital experiences. In addition, telecom companies like Smart, consumer finance platforms such as Skyro and Salmon, and B2B MSME enabler Growsari also collaborate with Igloo in the Philippines to expand access to insurance across different sectors. This enables customers to purchase insurance directly through these platforms with minimal hassle. As a result, consumers can easily discover, evaluate, and buy insurance products in just a few clicks, making insurance a natural part of their everyday transactions. Consequently, securing coverage for travel, electronics, or e-commerce purchases becomes nearly invisible yet highly convenient.

This frictionless approach allows customers to opt-in with just a few clicks, which improves conversion rates. It also appeals to those who might not have initially considered insurance but recognize its value when offered conveniently.

Bringing Insurance Closer to Consumers, Digitally

Building on its success in embedded insurance and business-to-agent models, Igloo has soft-launched a direct-to-consumer platform in Indonesia, igloo.co.id, where users can explore insurance products like motorcycle, car, pet, and travel coverage from top insurers.

Introducing these platforms is essential for improving insurance accessibility and expanding market penetration. Igloo’s direct-to-consumer platform streamlines the insurance process, enabling users to easily compare products, understand coverage, and manage policies in one place. This approach not only resolves common transparency issues but also empowers consumers to make informed decisions. Digitalization, in this case, increases accessibility, boosts efficiency, and builds trust, ultimately driving higher adoption rates and fostering a more inclusive insurance ecosystem.

As the Philippines experiences a decline in insurance penetration, digitalization offers a clear solution to reverse this trend. By simplifying processes for intermediaries and customers alike, insurers can eliminate barriers to entry. The growing prevalence of embedded insurance and direct-to-consumer platforms also exposes consumers to more coverage options, increasing the likelihood of purchasing insurance and improving overall financial security.

Preparing for various expenses is something my husband and I do annually. With three kids studying at different academic levels, each with unique needs, budgeting can be a challenge. The largest portion of our expenses often goes towards my college student son. In our experience, there are times when finances are abundant, but there are also lean seasons—financially speaking. When resources fall short, especially during critical times, we turn to cash loans.

For cash loans, we trust Home Credit. Home Credit’s cash loan offer provides a financial boost for families like ours. Whether for tuition fees or necessary and unexpected expenses, Home Credit helps make our financial planning hassle-free and worry-free.

Home Credit’s Cash Loan is easy and fast. With just a minute of online processing time, you can get same-day cash disbursement (maximum of P50,000) via online banking or cash pick up from a list of their partner stores, once you’re approved.  And why is it easy? You only need two requirements—first, you must be a Filipino citizen aged 18 to 68 years old; second, you need one valid ID. Additionally, you can choose from 6-month to 48-month installment plans via various payment channels.

As someone who advocates for practical and debt-free living, I encourage everyone to pay their loans on time and in full. This practice helps you maintain a good credit standing and be recognized as a reliable borrower, making it easier to qualify for higher loan amounts. Let’s face it: expenses tend to rise each year, and having adequate savings becomes increasingly important. Fortunately, when savings fall short, we can rely on Home Credit.

Apply safely, securely, and conveniently from home using the Home Credit App, which offers 24/7 customer support. Download it today on Google Play or App Store.

For your financial needs that require flexibility and convenience, choose Home Credit Cash Loan!

For more information about Home Credit Cash Loan, visit this link: www.homecredit.ph/apply/cash-loans. 

To learn more about Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website: www.homecredit.ph. Follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts to stay updated. Explore  www.shoppingmall.ph to get the best deals near you. 

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

*Cash loans are available to eligible customers only.

I’ve been there.

I know how back-to-school expenses, like any other major costs, can be stressful and daunting, especially if you have other financial responsibilities to manage—and even more so if you have more than one child.

Back-to-school season of my three boys in different levels: College, High School, and Grade School.

While budgeting is always helpful, there are times when unexpected expenses or emergencies arise, forcing you to prioritize those during the payment of tuition fees and other back-to-school needs. While there’s nothing wrong with asking for help from family or friends, I personally prefer to seek out financial companies, banking institutions, financial apps, or digital banks that offer loans for important expenses when I need them.

Maya Easy Credit, your dependable ally for all your school expense needs

Maya Easy Credit is a reliable ally when it comes to borrowing money to make back-to-school spending a breeze! Whether you need it for tuition fees, school supplies, gadgets, allowances, or any other expenses, you can count on Maya Easy Credit.

It’s easy—you read that right! You can borrow money as simply as 1-2-3 and without hassle! You can borrow up to ₱30,000 in seconds for your immediate needs and pay it back within 30 days. There’s no need for paperwork like proof of income, billing statements, or other documents to get the financial help you need. With Maya Easy Credit, you can use the funds for back-to-school expenses right after they’ve been transferred to your wallet. Once in your wallet, you can pay directly in-store or online when shopping for your child’s or children’s school needs. My back-to-school experience was a breeze, thanks to Maya Easy Credit.

However, as an advocate of living a debt-free life, it’s important to pay your Maya Easy Credit bill on time to avoid penalties. This also helps you build a good credit score, which is crucial when borrowing money.

Here’s how you could apply for Maya Easy Credit:

1. Go to the Credit dashboard in your Maya App and tap "Sign up for Maya Easy Credit."

2. If you're eligible for Maya Easy Credit, you will see an "Activate Now" button.

3. To become eligible for Maya Credit, complete your account and continue using Maya's other services actively.

To qualify for Maya Easy Credit, you must:

• Be at least 21 years of age and not over 65 years old.

• Have an upgraded account.

• Have been actively using your account.

• Have a good credit standing.

If you qualify for early access, you’ll be notified once you’re eligible to activate your Maya Easy Credit.

Maya Easy Credit saved me during my son’s college enrollment. While I had prepared for his tuition fees this semester, I completely forgot that I still had balances to pay from the previous semester. My back-to-school anxieties disappeared, thanks to Maya Easy Credit!

What made it even more attractive is their ongoing promo where you could win gadgets every week! Every ₱250 you spend using Maya earns you raffle entries for a chance to be one of the 20 weekly winners of ₱10,000 and Honor gadgets from July 1 to August 31, 2024. Pay for school supplies, shoes, backpacks, and more via QRPh at over 600,000 stores, check out online through Pay with Maya, or use the globally accepted Maya Card. Plus, stay connected with load and data from the app for all your homework and enrollment needs. Each transaction brings you closer to a win, making every purchase a step toward exciting rewards. The more you use Maya to spend, save, invest, and borrow, the higher your chances of winning!

In addition to all these fantastic features and promos, Maya is one of the digital banks that offers high interest rates when you open a savings account! With Maya Savings, you can grow your money while you spend it on school or other expenses. Boost your savings with up to 15% p.a. interest, credited daily whenever you use Maya for your transactions. Your savings grow faster, helping you handle school expenses more smoothly.

I can’t stress enough how much Maya and Maya Easy Credit have helped me manage my finances. My back-to-school worries turned into excitement in an instant. I know budgeting can sometimes be a challenge or even seem impossible at times, but with Maya, you can count on its perfect attendance!

Union Catholic High School (or Union Catholic, for short), a leading private school in New Jersey, U.S.A, is inviting Filipino families to explore the enriching academic and extracurricular programs offered at their institution. Through their recently held “Beyond Boundaries” roadshow in the Philippines, Union Catholic representatives were able to show glimpses of student life at their school to Filipino parents (and even non-parents!).  

Founded in 1962, Union Catholic is a well-established institution known for “its rigorous academic programs, faith-based values, and commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.” This was emphasized further during the roadshow, which had two “legs”—the first was at U.P. Town Center in Quezon City on June 18, and the second was at The Mind Museum in Taguig City on June 19.

“There are many reasons for you to want to come to Union Catholic,” says Dr. James Reagan, Assistant Principal of Union Catholic High School, who was part of the three-person delegation behind the roadshow.  “We have a wonderful community where all members of our community are respected. We have a diverse student body, dedicated faculty, and dynamic, first-rate facility, but the bottom line is here at Union Catholic, we love one another and want to see each member of our school community succeed.” 

Union Catholic offers a rigorous academic program that prepares students for top colleges and universities. Highly qualified and dedicated teachers create a stimulating learning environment that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. 

Staci Gialanella, the parent of students from the Class of 2020 and 2026, affirms the school’s strong academic program: “Union Catholic provides fertile ground to be able to achieve excellence.” 

Filipino families will especially appreciate the school's commitment to:

• A Strong Values-Based Foundation: Union Catholic integrates important values into its curriculum and daily life, fostering a sense of service, compassion, and respect for others

• Diverse Course Offerings: Beyond a core curriculum, Union Catholic offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, electives, and specialized programs in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM).

• Vibrant Extracurricular Activities: Students can explore their interests and develop leadership skills through a variety of clubs, organizations, and athletic teams.

• Supportive Community: Union Catholic fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where students feel supported by their peers, teachers, and counselors.

Speaking of community, Sabrina Hackett, one of the students from Union Catholic’s Class of 2025, shares why she likes studying there: “The Union Catholic community is so wonderful and makes every student feel welcome. Even though everyone comes from different places, as we go through our high school experience, our class becomes our family.”

Jason Chen, a student from the Class of 2026, agrees with Sabrina. “The environment, the people, the classes; it just feels like home,” he says.

Union Catholic alumna Raymond Lestarchick, who graduated in 2019, has only fond memories of his years there, especially of the people. “The faculty care about their students and want to see them succeed,” he shares. “The students become so close together under that environment that some become friends for life.”

Exploring Union Catholic for Filipino Families

Union Catholic is committed to providing a seamless transition for Filipino students. The school offers resources such as:

• ESL Support: For students who are still developing their English language skills, Union Catholic offers English as a Second Language (ESL) support services.

• Cultural Clubs and Organizations: Filipino students can connect with their heritage and build friendships through cultural clubs and organizations. 

• Multilingual Staff: Union Catholic has staff members who are familiar with Filipino culture and can assist families with the admissions process.

During the “Beyond Boundaries” roadshow, Dr. Jennifer Dixon, Director of School Counseling, also shared about their “homestay” program for international students. Under the program, each student is “matched” with a host family. This helps ensure that they feel “at home” even if they are far from their loved ones. 

Elito Tanyag, a religion teacher at Union Catholic who was also at the roadshow, had actually hosted several international students. As a Filipino himself, he expressed his hope that he would one day host Filipino students under the school’s “homestay” program. 

He also assured the Filipino parents present at the roadshow that, as the school’s Filipino Club Moderator, he makes sure that the students are in touch with their culture but encouraged to be independent at the same time. “It’s like having a Filipino Tito at school,” he joked.

A World of Possibilities Awaits

It was evident at the roadshow that Union Catholic High School truly believes in nurturing the potential of every student, no matter where they come from. By choosing Union Catholic, Filipino families are opening a world of possibilities for their children. With a strong academic foundation, a supportive community, and a commitment to cultural diversity, Union Catholic is poised to help students achieve their dreams and truly go beyond boundaries.

Interested families are encouraged to visit their official website and check their page for International Admissions. Details about their short-term programs for international students can also be found on their website. They also have a page dedicated to Scholarship Opportunities.

About Union Catholic High School

Union Catholic High School is a co-educational college preparatory school located in New Jersey, USA. Rooted in strong values, the school provides a challenging academic program, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a supportive community that prepares students for success in college and beyond.

For more information about Union Catholic High School, you may visit their official website. You may also follow them on Facebook @UnionCatholic and Instagram @unioncatholichighschool