RTOA Davao Unveils Electric Taxis, Signals Shift Toward Sustainable Transport

In photo: LTFRB Region XI Director Nonito “Dondon” Llanos and RTOA Region XI President Ryan Sia lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony, formally marking the launch of EV taxis under the RTOA fleet.

DAVAO CITY, 19 February 2026 – The Regional Taxi Operators Association (RTOA), the largest coalition of local taxi operators in Davao City, has announced a pilot rollout of electric vehicles in its fleet, signaling a strategic shift toward more sustainable urban transport in the region. The initiative was unveiled during a press conference in Davao City, where RTOA presented the initial batch of electric taxi units now cleared to operate as part of its active fleet.

Representing approximately 70 percent of taxi operators in Davao, RTOA’s initiative reflects a collective effort by local operators to embrace cleaner mobility solutions while ensuring full compliance with existing transport regulations set by the local government and agencies such as the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

“As proud Davaoeños, we stand ready to help lead the shift to sustainable mobility for our kababayans,”  shared RTOA President Ryan Sia. “For decades, we have served Davaoeno commuters, and we welcome every opportunity to raise the standard of service they deserve. Today, we take a meaningful step forward – honoring our responsibility to the public and our duty to the future. We are honored to walk alongside the government in modernizing the local taxi fleet, moving hand in hand with operators and drivers toward a cleaner, safer, and more progressive Davao City.”

RTOA will proactively share operational learnings from the pilot, covering vehicle performance, charging patterns, cost efficiency, and rider feedback, with the local government and transport regulators, including the LTFRB, to help inform a collaborative roadmap for electric mobility in Davao. 

The group noted that regular updates from the pilot can guide practical decisions on charging infrastructure rollout and policy refinements, ensuring that regulations and support systems evolve in step with real-world operating conditions and build a more sustainable environment for EV adoption.

The initiative has the expressed support of the LTFRB, reinforcing RTOA’s position that the adoption of electric vehicles should proceed through established regulatory channels. 

“LTFRB acknowledges the importance of the Electric Vehicles Industry Development Act or EVIDA law. It's very necessary that we have to move forward, we have to transform our taxis into better, comfortable, reliable, environmental, friendly taxis to make sure that the triple S: satisfaction, security, and success will be experienced by our taxi drivers, operators and our passengers,” said LTFRB XI Regional Director Nonito “Dondon” Llanos III during the event.

As RTOA prepares to scale its electric fleet, Sia said the pilot is only the start—an early but important step that strongly positions local taxi operators to stay competitive as electric mobility takes hold in the Philippine transport landscape.

Filinvest Land joins the International Coastal Cleanup Day

 

As part of the company’s mission of maintaining green communities, Filinvest teamed up with the Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS) and the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) to conduct their yearly cleanup activity along the island’s coastal area.

Employees from Filinvest Land, SharePro, and ProExcel gathered with CENRO, the local barangay, the IGACOS Coast Guard, and community volunteers to ensure the island’s natural beauty is well-protected and well-preserved.

 

This is an addition to the regular environmental activities organized by Pusong Filinvest, the company’s corporate social responsibility arm, at least twice a year. Through this program, Filinvest stays committed to creating a greener and healthier future for Filipinos in Davao and across the nation.

Judo Legacy Lives On: Sydney Sy Tancontian Carries UAAP Torch of Honor

 

 

Davaoeña Sydney Sy Tancontian, the country’s multi-awarded judoka and sambist, received a prestigious honor during the opening of the **UAAP Season 88** when she was chosen as one of the torch bearers—a distinction reserved for the finest athletes in the history of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers.

 

This year, UST is hosting the UAAP season, and Sydney’s recognition shines as a proud moment not just for her alma mater but also for Davao City.

 

Her father, Paolo Tancontian, president of Pilipinas Sambo Incorporated, expressed immense pride in Sydney’s latest accolade. He said the UAAP’s acknowledgment signifies that the Tancontian family’s judo legacy remains alive, strong, and inspiring.

 A Family Rooted in Judo Excellence

In Davao City sports history, few families have contributed as much as the Tancontians, whose tradition of excellence dates back to the 1960s when the sport of *udo was first introduced in the city.

The discipline was brought by Japanese construction workers and engineers who arrived after World War II to work at a cement factory in Bunawan—now owned by Holcim Cement. These skilled workers, eager to share their national sport, began teaching judo at the CYO Gym, now the Holy Cross of Davao College Gym.

  

Three young Davaoeños—Romeo, Antonio, and Bimbo Tancontian—were among the first to train under them. The eldest, Romeo Tancontian, made history by becoming the 1967 National Judo Open Weight Champion, the first from the province to clinch such a prestigious title.

 Carrying the Torch Across Generations

Three decades later, Antonio’s son, Paolo Tancontian, followed in his uncle’s footsteps, becoming the 1997 Judo Open Weight Champion. Paolo went on to become an eight-time Philippine Lightweight Judo Champion and secured the first gold medal for Davao City at the Arafura Games in Australia (2001).

After retiring from active competition, Paolo dedicated himself to nurturing the next generation—his children, Sydney and Chino Sy Tancontian. Both have excelled internationally not just in judo but also in *sambo, a Russian martial art that Paolo himself helped introduce to the Philippines.

 Davao’s Enduring Pride

From the first judo classes in 1961 to Sydney’s role as a UAAP torch bearer today, the Tancontian family’s legacy continues to honor Davao City across decades, tournaments, and disciplines.

Their story is more than just about medals and championships—it is about passing on a flame, one that still burns bright in the city’s sporting history and inspires the next generation of athletes.

As Paolo Tancontian proudly shared:

 “Sydney carrying the torch in the UAAP is more than just an honor for our family—it is a symbol that the judo spirit we inherited and passed on will never fade. It tells every young Davaoeño athlete that with discipline and passion, they too can carry their own torch of excellence.” Bob Braceros

Solar Power Brings Security, Peace to Davao Fishing Village

Solar has transformed the life and security of a fishing community in Davao City.

Fishermen in Barangay Lasang, Davao City, are now enjoying safer and more secure surroundings thanks to the solar lights project initiated by former Davao City Second District Councilor Javi Garcia Campos. The project provides much-needed illumination for the NAGAMBALA Fisherfolk Association, addressing long-standing issues of darkness and theft in the area.

Previously, the lack of lighting led to frequent thefts, with fisherfolk losing valuable equipment such as boat engines and tools. The absence of proper illumination also posed a security risk, as unlawful individuals would take advantage of the dark, secluded areas to hide.

With the installation of solar-powered lights, these concerns have been effectively addressed. The brightened surroundings now deter criminal activity and create a safer environment for the fisherfolk and residents of Lasang.

Fisherfolk Express Gratitude

Members of the NAGAMBALA Fisherfolk Association shared their appreciation for the project.

Alberto Canoy, President of NAGAMBALA, recalled their long struggle with theft and darkness.

“Before, our area was completely dark, and we suffered from theft. We lost boat engine oil, shovels, and even machines. The place was frightening, with reports of suspicious individuals lurking in the shadows. When we learned that Sir Javi was providing solar lights, we requested assistance. On February 3, the lights arrived, and we assembled them ourselves. Now, the area is well-lit, and theft has stopped. The light has finally reached our community.”

Edelberto Alcobar, another member, emphasized how the solar lights improved their daily lives.

 “We lost a lot of fishing equipment. Now, we’re thankful not just for the lights but because theft has stopped. Thank you, Sir Javi.”

William Luengas, also a member, shared how his boat engine was stolen before the installation.

“I’m incredibly grateful because the area is bright now, and we no longer struggle with security concerns.”

Through this initiative, Councilor Javi Garcia Cam.pos has brought more than just light—he has restored a sense of safety and peace for the Lasang fishingñ community, proving that even simple projects can make a significant impact on people’s lives.(Bob Braceros)

Globe Named Top ASEAN Firm for Corporate Governance

 

Globe's Chief Compliance Officer and  Senior Vice President for Legal and Compliance Marisalve Ciocson-Co (left) and Assistant Corporate Secretary and Globe’s Head of Corporate Services Nina Mikaela Sarmiento-Tacandong (second from left), together with Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair Francis Edralin Lim and SEC Commissioner Mcjill Bryant Fernandez, receive the award at the 2025 ASEAN Corporate Governance Conference and Awards (CGCA) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — Globe has been honored as one of the Top 50 Publicly Listed Companies (PLCs) in ASEAN, and among the Top 5 PLCs in the Philippines for its excellence in corporate governance, affirming the company’s longstanding commitment to transparency, integrity, accountability, and ethical business conduct.

 

The awards were conferred during the 2025 ASEAN Corporate Governance Conference and Awards (CGCA) held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. Representing Globe was Chief Compliance Officer and Senior Vice President for Legal and Compliance Marisalve Ciocson-Co, who also serves as Assistant Corporate Secretary and Globe’s Head of Corporate Services Nina Mikaela Sarmiento-Tacandong.

 

The awardees were selected from a pool of 569 large-cap PLCs across six ASEAN markets which include Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Globe’s strong showing reflects its robust governance framework, which anchors its operational integrity and long-term shareholder value creation.

 

“Good corporate governance is in Globe’s DNA. It’s fundamental to how we create value, not just for shareholders, but for our customers, employees, and communities,” said Ciocson-Co. “We are deeply honored to be recognized by regional stakeholders and governance bodies for our consistent and principled approach to doing business.”

 

“This recognition reinforces our belief that sound governance strengthens trust in our services, fuels sustainable growth, and positions Globe as a responsible corporate citizen in the region,” she added.

 

The ASEAN CGCA 2025 marked the culmination of the 2024 ACGS assessment, a flagship initiative under the ASEAN Capital Markets Forum (ACMF) and supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The 2024 assessment employed a revised framework aligned with updated G20/OECD Principles of Corporate Governance, placing greater emphasis on sustainability, board effectiveness, stakeholder engagement and transparency.

 

This year’s ASEAN CGCA was organized by Malaysia’s Minority Shareholders Watch Group (MSWG), with YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Malaysia, officiating the ceremony.

 

Along with Globe, Ayala Corporation was also recognized as one of the Top 50 PLCs in ASEAN and Top 5 PLCs in the Philippines for corporate governance.

 

Globe’s governance practices are guided by its Manual of Corporate Governance and Code of Conduct, both aligned with international standards and designed to ensure transparency, integrity, fairness, and ethical leadership across all levels of the organization.

 

The full list of top-performing PLCs and ASEAN Asset Class recipients is available on the MSWG website.

 

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

 

From Miracle to Milestone: Alleona Ysabel Braceros Celebrates Her 18th Birthday

From a miracle baby to a fine young woman—Alleona Ysabel Braceros celebrates her 18th birthday today! 💖 Proof that God’s blessings turn trials into triumphs. 🙏🎉

Davao City – Eighteen years ago, on August 20, 2007, a story of both sorrow and hope unfolded. In General Santos City, three boy triplets were born but tragically lost their lives to sepsis. On the very same day in Davao City, at Community Hospital in Magallanes (now Riverview Hospital), another child was born with the same ailment. Against all odds, this baby girl survived.

That child was named Alleona Ysabel Braceros, a name rooted in family history—“Alleona” drawn from her maternal grandmother, Leona. When her parents asked the attending doctor why she was able to survive when others could not, they were told: “Women have stronger survival instincts than men.” Yet her family believes it was more than instinct—it was God’s blessing that spared her life.

Her survival did not come without challenges. The ordeal was emotionally and financially taxing for her parents, but the gift of Alleona’s life became a profound source of strength and joy. Today, eighteen years later, that miracle baby has grown into a beautiful young woman ready to face the future with courage and grace.

Unlike many of her peers who thrive in the bustle of social life, Alleona is known to value the simple joys of home. She enjoys time with her gadgets, the comfort of rest, and cherishes family trips—especially visits to her maternal grandparents’ home in Bohol. These quiet yet meaningful moments shape her unique character, setting her apart as someone grounded in family values.

Now standing at the threshold of adulthood, Alleona is ready to embrace life’s challenges at her own pace and in her own way. Her parents and loved ones remain steadfastly by her side, offering the love and support that carried her from a fragile newborn into the strong young woman she is today.

On this special day, her family celebrates not only her 18th birthday but also the miracle of her life. “The world may be tough, but with God, your parents, and your kin always ready to guide you, Alleona, you will never walk alone,” her family shares with pride and gratitude.

A blessed and meaningful 18th birthday to Alleona Ysabel Braceros—proof that miracles do happen, and that God’s grace shines brightest in life’s toughest battles.(Bob Braceros)

Globe accelerates network expansion in 2nd Qtr 2025, strengthens 5G leadership

 

Globe posted sequential growth in gross service revenues for the second quarter of 2025, reflecting its resilient operations and unwavering commitment to building a digitally connected Philippines. This upbeat performance is powering the company’s aggressive network expansion and 5G rollout, delivering faster, more reliable connectivity to millions of Filipinos and paving the way for next-generation technologies.

 

By mid-2025, Globe had made significant progress in rolling out its network expansion program to meet the country’s rising digital needs.

 

The company built 937 new cell sites and upgraded 4,512 LTE sites, further strengthening mobile coverage and enhancing service quality nationwide. To meet the growing demand for home internet, Globe deployed 35,821 new fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) lines, ensuring more households have access to high-speed broadband essential for remote work, online learning, e-commerce, and digital services.

 

As part of its network enhancement program, Globe successfully migrated over 600 towns to full fiber connectivity, phasing out legacy copper lines in these areas. This milestone not only boosts broadband speed and stability but also aligns with Globe’s green network strategy, reducing environmental impact and eliminating copper scavenging incidents that historically disrupted services.

 

Globe’s growth is also powered by its expanding 5G network. The company rolled out 444 new 5G sites nationwide, expanding its 5G outdoor coverage to 98.71% in Metro Manila and 98.19% in key Visayas and Mindanao cities by end-June 2025. These advancements are enabling more Filipinos to enjoy seamless high-speed connectivity for work, entertainment, and emerging digital innovations.  Serving Filipino travellers globally, Globe sustained its leadership through 168 inbound and 183 outbound 5G roaming partnerships across 99 destinations, keeping Filipinos connected wherever they go.

 

These milestones highlight Globe’s sustained investments in network infrastructure and 5G innovation, reinforcing its mission to bridge the digital divide and future-proof its network. Backed by financial sustainability, Globe is empowering Filipinos to thrive in a fast-evolving digital economy and positioning the Philippines as a rising hub for digital connectivity and technology adoption in the region.

 

For more information about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

From Humble Beginnings to World-Class: Pilipinas Sambo’s Decade of Glory

 

Achieving greatness requires more than just talent—it takes relentless hard work, divine blessings, and strong support from government institutions. This has been the journey of Pilipinas Sambo Incorporated, a Davao City-based national sports association accredited by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), which after ten years has risen to become one of the best in the world, producing world-class sambo athletes and champions.

Founded and currently presided over by Paolo Tancontian, a former world-class judo practitioner from Davao, Pilipinas Sambo has come a long way since its humble beginnings. Sambo, a Russian martial art, was once relatively unknown in the Philippines, but through vision, discipline, and perseverance, it has now flourished into a powerhouse sport that continuously delivers medals in international tournaments.

 

The growth of the sport would not have been possible without the steadfast support of the PSC, the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), and Davaoeño Senator Bong Go, who have stood firmly behind the organization’s efforts. Their backing has helped provide resources, opportunities, and recognition that have elevated Filipino sambo athletes to the global stage.

With its world-class reputation, Pilipinas Sambo now stands as a reliable medal source for the Philippines in prestigious international competitions. At the helm of this success is Paolo Tancontian, alongside a dedicated team led by coach Ace Larida and world sambo champion Sydney Sy Tancontian. Together, they have nurtured a culture of excellence that continues to inspire young athletes across the country.

Looking ahead, the future shines even brighter. With a solid foundation, strong leadership, and unwavering government support, Pilipinas Sambo is set to reach even greater heights in the years to come. From an emerging sport to a global force, its journey is a testament to how vision, faith, and perseverance can turn dreams into history-making triumphs.(Bob Braceros)

Globe Elevates Davao’s 5G in Time for Kadayawan 2025

 

Globe marks its participation in Kadayawan 2025 with a clear message: Globe 5G powers Davaoeños to be at their best every day. Consumers can transact, share, stream, and connect. Whether at work, in learning, enjoying entertainment, or staying in touch with loved ones, they can do it all with fast speeds, reliable performance, and low latency that keep up with their daily lives.

 

Globe 5G now reaches more than 95 percent of Davao’s key areas through over 200 sites across the city. This level of coverage puts Davao in the same league as Metro Manila, Cebu, and Iloilo when it comes to advanced connectivity for both personal and business use. Tests in busy Kadayawan spots have shown strong, steady performance, even with thousands of people online at the same time.

 

Globe also continues to expand its role as a reliable partner for Davao’s business community. From retail and logistics to tourism, education, and agriculture, enterprises are leveraging Globe’s 5G-powered solutions to digitize operations, enhance security, and scale efficiently. These are not trial runs but active deployments creating impact across industries.

 

With this infrastructure in place, small businesses and large enterprises alike benefit from faster point-of-sale activations, more reliable online learning platforms, and IoT-enabled tools for monitoring farms and tracking supply chains. Globe’s nationwide network reach and consistent service make it a dependable choice for organizations aiming to modernize.

 

“Davao is a city that honors its roots while embracing what’s next. By strengthening our 5G footprint here, we’re not just powering one festival, we’re supporting a growing hub of culture, commerce, and innovation,” said Al Siao, Assistant Vice President and Territory Lead, Network Technical Group at Globe. “Kadayawan is a celebration of life, and we’re proud to be part of that by making every connection count, whether for a small business, a content creator, or a community on the rise.”

 

From August 15 to 18, Globe will activate its full experiential booth platform at Ayala Abreeza, offering immersive games and interactive activities supported by a COW (cell site on wheels) to ensure strong, stable 5G connectivity throughout. A Festival Blitz at Rizal Park will also bring light, engaging experiences to more attendees across the city. These activations, including a music showcase on August 17, are designed to complement the festival spirit while riding on the same 5G backbone that supports Davao’s everyday users and growing business community.

 

Everyday is a chance to be your best with Globe 5G.

 

 

Aislinn Yap Clinches Bronze at The World Games 2025, Boosting Philippines’ Best Medal Haul

 

World No. 1 sambo athlete Aislinn Yap once again proved her world-class caliber after capturing the bronze medal in the Women’s Combat -80kg event at The World Games 2025. The Filipina powerhouse secured the win with a decisive 3-1 victory over Nicole Castro of Costa Rica, displaying remarkable skill and determination on the mat.

Yap’s triumph marks the Philippines’ second bronze medal in this year’s edition of The World Games, adding to two earlier silver finishes. With a total of four medals—two silvers and two bronzes.

The win also highlights the growing strength of the Philippine sambo program, which has steadily made its presence felt in the global arena. Pilipinas Sambo President Paolo Tancontian, a proud Davaoeño, expressed his joy over Yap’s performance, saying it was a testament to the hard work and dedication of both the athlete and her team.

Tancontian’s cousin, Ace Larida, who serves as Yap’s coach, also shared his pride, noting the long hours of training and preparation that led to the podium finish. 

With her latest achievement, Yap has further cemented her status as one of the brightest stars in world sambo. Her success not only brings honor to the Philippines but also motivates the next generation of athletes to aim high and excel in their chosen sports—even beyond the Olympic stage.

The Philippine team’s historic run at The World Games 2025 stands as a shining example of perseverance, unity, and national pride. As the country celebrates this record-breaking performance, the hope is that it will spark even greater support for Filipino athletes competing in all arenas, whether Olympic or not.(Bob Braceros)