BusinessWorld B-Side
BusinessWorld B-Side is a podcast from BusinessWorld, a leading Philippine business news outlet. It revisits and expands on stories that have been published in BusinessWorld. The show offers deeper context and discussion around business news from the Philippines.
Episodes
Where Are We Now in the AI Revolution in Business?
The year 2026 was projected to be the year of the “Agentic Enterprise,” where autonomous artificial intelligence (AI) would no longer be limited to simple chatbots but become more ingrained in the core infrastructure of businesses to increase productivity and drive growth, according to US-based cloud software company Salesforce.Now that we are heading into the last quarter of 2026, this begs the q
Where the Digital World Converges: Conversations on Cloud | Ep 3 | Defending the Digital Republic: Public-Private Strategies for Cyber Resilience in the Philippines
As digital transformation accelerates across the country, cybersecurity is emerging as a critical enabler of national development, not just a technical safeguard.In this episode of “Where the Digital World Converges: Conversations on Cloud,” a collaboration of BusinessWorld B-Side with Converge Global Business, Mr. Eric Andrew Malijan (Senior Vice President & Head of Corporate Information Secu
Where the Digital World Converges: Conversations on Cloud | Ep 2 | Digital Infrastructure as Backbone of Digital Economy
Digital infrastructure powers everything in today’s economy: connecting people, businesses, and services through networks of fiber-optic cables, satellites, data centers, and cloud platforms. For the Philippines, building this infrastructure has become a national priority.In this episode of “Where the Digital World Converges: Conversations on Cloud,” a collaboration between BusinessWorld B-Side an
VUL DEMYSTIFIED: Getting to Know a Misunderstood Insurance Product
A fear of investing among many Filipinos has carried over to the insurance industry, where many are hesitant about variable unit-linked (VUL) insurance, since some advisors position it primarily as an investment vehicle.In this episode of BusinessWorld B-Side, Sun Life Head of Insurance Investments Ivan Corcuera talks about the true value of VUL insurance, how it functions, and when it is best uti
The Evolving Meaning of Leadership Across Ages
Does leadership come from position, or from the ability to earn trust?In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld talks together with President & Chief Executive Officer, Pauline Fermin, and Program Director & Senior Strategist, Jocelyn Labrador of Acumen Strategy Consultants, examines how Filipino leaders from different generations view leadership, and how these perspectives build today’s workp
Where the Digital World Converges: Conversations on Cloud | Ep 1 | Why the Philippines Needs an In-Country Cloud Now
Data has the ability to power a nation, especially when it can store data within its shores.In the first episode of "Where the Digital World Converges: Conversations on Cloud," a collaboration of BusinessWorld B-Side with Converge Global Business, Converge Studios CEO James Mendoza and National Privacy Commission Deputy Commissioner Atty. Jose Belarmino II share insights on how crucial a
Parenting in the Age of Four Generations
Are parents supposed to be disciplinarians? Are they supposed to coddle us? Or are they supposed to be our friends?In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld talks together with VP for Corporate & Commercial Strategy, Barbara Young and Program Director & Strategist, Kristine Joyce Erni Santos of Acumen Strategy Consultants, uncovers insights parents of current generations need to better raise c
Executive coaching and the Filipino workforce
In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld explores the evolving Filipino workforce through the lens of executive coaching.Tina Sioson, President of the International Coaching Federation (ICF) Philippines, breaks down skills-based hiring, common recruitment pitfalls, and strategies for Filipino professionals to thrive in 2026 and beyond.Interview by Erika SinakingAudio editing by Jayson John Marinas
How Filipino Generations Define Success in the Workplace
For the first time, employees from as many as five generations are working side by side—each bringing distinct expectations, work habits, and communication styles. It’s a dynamic that offers both opportunity and friction.In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld talks with Acumen Strategy Consultants—VP for Organization Transformation, Cherry Tantoco-Daniels, and Consulting Project Manager & Consu
Mindful Consumption During the Holiday Season
The season of sales and spending is here, fueled by Christmas and other year-end bonuses. In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld talks about conscious consumption with Liza Mae L. Fumar, an assistant professorial lecturer 7 at De La Salle University’s Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business. She defines mindful purchases and shares tips for avoiding impulse buying, including during online sale day
Let's Unpack Outsourcing F&A in the PH
As global firms seek dependable financial management, the Philippines offers expertise among its growing pool of certified public accountants that meets the expectations of foreign businesses operating in the country. In a BusinessWorld B-Side episode, D&V Philippines CFO and Head of Legal and Compliance Atty. Jose B. Calsas shares why outsourced bookkeeping helps businesses meet financial dem
Information is a public good
In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld speaks with Guilherme Canela, director of the Division for Digital Inclusion Policies and Digital Transformation of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), on why access to information is a human right.Interview by Patricia MirasolAudio editing by Jayson Mariñas
AI-driven fraud, deep fakes, and the need for secure finance
This B-Side episode discusses the threat of AI-driven fraud with Dominic Forest, chief technology officer at iProov, a London-based technology company specializing in biometric identity verification.Interview by Patricia MirasolAudio editing by Jayson Mariñas#AIDrivenFraud #DeepFakes #BiometricAuthentication #BankingSecurity#BWorldPH
How to master content creation and algorithm changes
First published on October 4, 2024.With the rise of influencers online and constant change in trends, it is hard to always stay relevant in the viewers' eyes.In this B-Side episode, Patty of ‘Masarap Ba?’ reveals her secret to mastering algorithm changes and other techniques to succeed in content creation.
Is it timely to amend and revise the 1987 Constitution?
First published on July 22, 2024.Since 1997, there have been multiple attempts to revise and amend the 1987 Constitution in response to various challenges the country has faced over the years. Recently, an economic charter change was approved on the third and final reading by Congress, which seeks to amend the 1987 constitution to lift foreign ownership to some vital industries in the country.To a
The importance of COD for small businesses
Although cash on delivery (COD) transactions have declined after the pandemic, at least half of customers still prefer this payment option, according to the CEO of an e-commerce and logistics company. In this B-Side episode, president and CEO of QuadX Inc. Raffy Vicente, together with founder of V&M Naturals Jamie Faith Tan Velez, share their insights on why COD remains crucial for small busin
Policy uncertainty: The ripple effects of sudden tariffs
This was first uploaded on April 15, 2025.US President Donald Trump has given a 90-day pause on the reciprocal tariffs he imposed, and everything is still in flux. In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld speaks with former tariff commissioner George N. Manzano about the tariffs, their impact on the Philippines, the motivations behind them, and recommendations for how the country can navigate this tr
SONA 2025: What to expect from the President’s address
In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld speaks with political expert Michael Henry Ll. Yusingco, senior research fellow at the Ateneo Policy Center, to help us break down what to expect in the 2025 SONA of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.Interview by Edg Adrian EvaAudio editing by Jayson MariñasMusic: Awakening by Lucjo https://soundcloud.com/lucjomusicLicense: Creative Commons — Attribution-NoDeri
Upskilling the Philippine workforce for an AI-driven future
Curious how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the Philippine workplace?While leaders acknowledge its importance, only about half feel they have a clear path to develop their AI strategy, according to Peter D. Maquera, chief executive officer of Microsoft Philippines.In this B-Side episode, he speaks with multimedia reporter Beatriz Cruz on how local businesses can prepare for the era of AI
Beyond the hype: Building ethical AI for human flourishing
This B-Side episode delves into the world of AI and ethics with Carl M. Javier, chief AI ethicist and executive director of Data and AI Ethics PH. It explores how artificial intelligence, a technology disruptive in both good and bad ways, impacts human dignity.While AI can worsen inequality - posing challenges for nations like the Philippines that still grapple with Internet access - making this t
Harnessing renewable energy from space
Are you curious about the future of energy, and how we might overcome challenges like high energy costs and energy security here in the Philippines? What if the answer lies not just on Earth, but in space itself?In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld discusses renewable energy in space with Charleston Dale M. Ambatali, assistant professor of University of the Philippines Diliman’s Electrical and El
Can you read this? Understanding PH's functional illiteracy
Around 24 million Filipinos aged 10 to 64 are considered functionally illiterate, struggling to comprehend or apply basic reading, writing, and math skills in daily life.In this episode, UNICEF Philippines education specialist Nicholas “Nicki” M. Tenazas joins us to break down the numbers, explore the root causes, and discuss what can be done to address this pressing issue.Interview by Edg Adrian
From ports to plate: ADB's strategic investments in Philippine food security
Food security is one of the most pressing issues faced by Asia and the Pacific, including the Philippines. Developing Asia accounts for more than half of the undernourished population in the world according to the Asian Development Bank (ADB).About 40% of the region's workforce are also employed in jobs related to agri-food systems.In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld speaks with Pavit Ramach
What changed? A closer look at the 2025 midterm polls
The 2025 midterm elections delivered unexpected results, with outcomes that defied pre-election surveys. Some familiar names were left out of the Magic 12, while underdogs made a surprising climb into the Top 5.What led to this shift?Political expert Michael Henry Ll. Yusingco, senior research fellow at the Ateneo Policy Center, breaks down the Senate results and offers insights into what they rev
How important is the revival of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant?
High electricity costs this summer are re-opening the conversation of reviving the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP). In this B-Side episode, the 2nd District Representative of Pangasinan and House Committee on Nuclear Energy Chairperson Mark O. Cojuangco share the challenges and benefits of rehabilitating the mothballed power plant.Interview by Almira MartinezEdited by Jayson Mariñas
Upskilling for a green economy: The crucial mindset shift
As the Philippines transitions towards a green economy, the need to upskill its workforce to fill green jobs becomes even more important.Designing green is the easiest part, according to Christopher C. de la Cruz, an architect and chief executive officer of the Philippine Green Building Council (PHILGBC). “It’s staying green that’s the biggest problem.”In this B-Side episode, he talks about how co
It’s Liver Lover Day
April 19 is World Liver Day, a day to raise awareness about the health of our often-overlooked yet vital liver. Liver diseases are a leading cause of mortality in the Philippines, accounting for 27.3 per 1,000 deaths, according to a 2023 study published in the Annals of Hepatology.Experts also warn that 10-20% of Filipinos may have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which can lead to serious compl
Colorectal cancer: All you need to know
March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. In this B-Side episode, we dive into everything you need to know about the disease.Colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the Philippines, with an estimated one in 1,800 Filipinos at risk each year. To help understand its symptoms, treatments, and prevention, Dr. Dave Rennel L. Sebollena, Vice President of the
Breaking barriers: Filipina women in STEM and beyond
In celebration of National Women’s Month, we recognize the trail-blazing Filipinas who have defied all odds through their success in various fields. However, we must also acknowledge the challenges that plague women into breaking existing glass ceilings.Carlota Salamat Andres shares in an interview with BusinessWorld her journey to becoming an S&E engineer, and why more Filipinas deserve more
How to make it as a female leader in finance
What's gender equality like in the finance industry? What challenges and opportunities do Filipinas face in this sector? BusinessWorld speaks with Abbie Dans-Casanova, president and CEO of SB Finance, in this B-Side episode.Interview by Patricia MirasolAudio editing by Arjale Queral
Responsible pet ownership, immediate medical attention can reduce rabies fatalities
In this B-Side episode, Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health’s Dr. Vincent C. Casimero and Dr. Niko H. Ylagan talk about Rabies Prevention Month, the causes and transmission of rabies, plus the protocol for handling animal bites and scratches.Interview by Patricia MirasolAudio editing by Jayson Mariñas
How Filipina founders can get the business funding they need
She Secure is a program which provides funding and financial advisory support to women-owned and women-led enterprises in the Philippines. In this B-Side episode, Abigail de los Santos Tan, co-founder and managing partner of ARC SME Business Development Company, talks about how to program aims to address the funding barriers faced by female entrepreneurs.Interview by Patricia MirasolAudio editing
How can a brand protect its reputation?
What causes reputational damage? How can one mitigate the effects of it? What are ways companies can protect their reputation?In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld talks about these topics with R.G. W. Gabunada, a partner at Louder PH, a full-service agency, and the CMO of Mansmith and Fielders, a training and consultancy company.Interview by Patricia MirasolAudio editing by Jayson Mariñas
Unleashing Pandora's Box: DeepSeek, LLMs, and the AI race
DeepSeek is a Chinese AI company that develops large language models, which is a type of AI program that can recognize and generate text, among other tasks. Its new AI model, R1, is said to rival the capabilities of leading AI models, while reportedly costing less to develop. In this episode, BusinessWorld talks about LLMs, DeepSeek, and the AI arms race with Satnam Narang, a senior staff research
Addressing the concerns surrounding teenage pregnancy prevention bill
The Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Bill, or Senate Bill 1979, was introduced to address the rising cases of teenage pregnancy in the country. However, it recently became controversial after a viral video from Project Dalisay claimed that the bill undermines traditional Filipino values, sparking various conversations and even leading seven senators to withdraw their signatures from the bill.In lig
Closer look at childhood cancer care in the Philippines
Cancer affects over 5,000 children in the Philippines annually. Although highly treatable, late diagnoses and other factors contribute to the country’s low survival rate of just 30%.In this B-Side episode, we speak with Dr. Ana Patricia A. Alcasabas, head of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) and chair of the National Sub-Technical Working Group for Childhood Ca
From lab to market: Filipino scientists merge tech innovation with business
Hemogen is a possible business spin-off that's composed of a team of scientists from the DoST's Philippine Nuclear Research Institute. With the institute's radiation technology, the team was able to develop materials that can control severe bleeding in trauma patients. In this B-Side episode, two of the team members talk about Hemogen's plans for commercializing the product.
Inter
The rise of an entrepreneurial mindset among Filipino freelancers
Filipinos have evolved their way of thinking from that of an employee to that of an entrepreneur, according to Nagesh Devata, senior vice president for APAC at Payoneer, a business payments platform. In this B-Side episode, he shares insights about freelancing and digital finance trends in the Philippines and Southeast Asia.
Interview by Patricia Mirasol
Audio editing by Jayson Mariñas
Holiday surge: Filipinos flock online for Christmas shopping
How do Filipinos spend and pay as they shop during the Christmas season? How are merchants and businesses addressing the challenges of the year-end holiday rush? BusinessWorld discusses this topic with Bryan L. Tiongson, Philippine country head of Global Payments, a payments solutions provider.
Interview by Patricia Mirasol
Audio editing by Jayson Mariñas
Understanding the 12% VAT on digital services providers in the Philippines
The Philippines has recently enacted Republic Act No. 12023, which imposes a 12% value added tax on digital services providers, both resident and non-resident.
In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld discusses some of the ramifications of the law with Pia Rodrigo, a communications officer of Action for Economic Reforms, an independent, reform-oriented policy group.
Interview by Edg Adrian A. Eva
A
Addressing electoral reforms: Key priorities for the Philippines
What are the top issues facing the Philippine electoral system? If the political party system is broken, then how do we fix it? How important is education in a democracy? BusinessWorld speaks with Clarita R. Carlos, a retired political scientist from the University of the Philippines, about these issues.
Interview by Patricia Mirasol
Audio editing by Jayson Mariñas
Concerns over the new CREATE MORE act
Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has signed the CREATE MORE Act this November, a law that promises to attract more foreign investments and boost economic growth by reducing the corporate income tax rate from 25% to 20% for registered business enterprises (RBEs).
The CREATE MORE Act also offers a VAT zero-rating on essential services like marketing and human resources, among ot
What does the US election outcome mean for the Philippines and Asia?
The 2024 U.S. presidential election is capturing attention worldwide as Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump face off in a closely contested race to the White House. With the U.S. wielding the world’s largest economy and military, this election’s outcome will undoubtedly have far-reaching global implications. But what’s at stake specifically for the Philippines and the br
Amplifying brands: leveraging podcasts for business growth
How can podcasting help businesses in terms of brand management, community building, and thought leadership? In this episode, BusinessWorld speaks with Ron Baetiong, the founder and CEO of Podcast Network Asia, about the impact podcasting can have for businesses who get into this digital medium.
Interview by Patricia Mirasol
Audio editing by Jayson Mariñas
It’s been flooding in Metro Manila: Why does it keep happening?
Flooding seems to have become a part of life for many of our fellow citizens in various areas of Metro Manila and nearby provinces. Despite the country having spent trillions on numerous flood management projects, Filipinos still suffer the seemingly endless flooding problem, as pointed out by several senators during a hearing after the devastation caused by Typhoon Carina. With this pressing issu
Technology’s healing potential: discussing the promise of medical innovations
How is the Philippines solving its healthcare issues through innovation? How are healthcare workers being upskilled to keep up with these technological advancements? Are we putting too much premium on technology?
In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld discusses robotics, artificial intelligence, and electronic medical records with Dr. Gerardo D. Legaspi, the medical director of the University of th
Is La Niña already here in the PH?
A La Niña watch alert was issued by the state weather bureau in March, indicating that the phenomenon is likely to occur this year.
Recently, there has been growing concern about whether La Niña has arrived in the Philippines due to the continuous heavy rains caused by several tropical cyclones, such as Enteng and Carina, along with the enhanced effects of the Southwest Monsoon.
In this B-side
Life as a Filipino doctor to the barrio
What is it like being a doctor to the barrio? What innovations are making the greatest impact in rural communities? What role does the local government play in all of this?
In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld talks about these topics with Francine Nicole M. Araneta, who works as a rural doctor under the Department of Health's Doctor to the Barrios program.
Recorded remotely on August 22,
Finding the Sweet Spot: How Sugar Taxes Can Fight Obesity and Offset Inflation Impacts
Obesity is now a rising health problem in the Philippines, with a staggering 27 million Filipinos considered overweight or obese, according to a 2019 survey by the DOST-FNRI.
To combat obesity, the government imposed an excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages under the TRAIN Law, which was signed in December 2017.
Filomeno S. Sta. Ana III, a coordinator of Action for Economic Reforms and a columni
No to war, yes to investments, Filipino-Chinese businessmen say
How does the Filipino-Chinese community drive growth in the Philippine economy? What policies do they advocate the government to practice? What do they think of the West Philippine Sea issue?
In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld converses with Cecilio K. Pedro, the president of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc., about government policies, investment gener
Are there any safe levels in alcohol drinking?
Alcohol drinking has been a vital part of various Filipino celebrations and festivals, creating camaraderie and a celebratory spirit.
Some Filipinos turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress, as it slows down brain function and can induce feelings of relaxation and calmness.
During the pandemic in 2021, more Filipinos became alcohol drinkers, with the Department of Health (DOH) reportin
Why do employees leave their company?
In 2023, the Philippine attrition rate and voluntary turnover increased to 15.9% from 14.2% the previous year, according to a study from a risk and employment consultancy company. This means that more employees are leaving their companies for better salaries and growth opportunities. From a company perspective, this is a potential indicator of dysfunctionality, which could lead to further problems
How should the Philippines approach the WPS dispute with China?
Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. asserted the country’s position on disputes over the West Philippine Sea (WPS), stating that “the West Philippine Sea is not a figment of our imagination; it is ours,” in his SONA 2024. This marks the first time that President Marcos Jr. has clearly stated his stance on the WPS dispute in his SONA, potentially influenced by ongoing public press
The Marcos Admin's Achievements and Unfinished Business
Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is set to deliver his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City this Monday, July 22, at 4 p.m. Filipinos from various sectors are anticipating that the SONA will address their concerns and are expecting to see progress with President Marcos's previous promises.
In this concern, Mr. Jemy Gatdula, Dean o
Untying the knot: Exploring divorce in Filipino society
The Philippines is one of two countries in the world that does not allow divorce for married couples. On June 10, 2024, however, the Philippine House of Representatives transmitted House Bill No. 9349 – or the approved bill for absolute divorce – to the Senate. What are the implications of this bill? If passed into law, how will it affect Filipino society?
In this episode, BusinessWorld discusses
Achieving energy transition goals through flexible power supply
The Philippines outlined renewable energy targets in its National Renewable Energy Program for 2020 to 2040, but what factors need to be in place for the Philippines to reach these targets? Why is flexibility in power generation important?
In this episode, BusinessWorld discuss renewable energy in the Philippine and global contexts with Kari Punnonen, head of energy business of Wärtsilä, a power s
The risks of using E-Cigarette and Tobacco Products, Especially Among Youth
E-cigarette and tobacco products use in the Philippines is steadily increasing, particularly among the youth, according to the study of the Global Youth Tobacco Survey in 2019. Consequently, flavors and esteemed novelty contribute to the initiation and sustained use of e-cigarettes and tobacco use. With this concern, Dr. Maria Encarnita Blanco-Limpin of the Philippine College of Chest Physicians/
Importance of road-worthy vehicles on the daily lives of Filipinos
According to the World Health Organization, despite an alarming number of cases, road traffic injuries are often neglected public health issues. With this concerning issue, Mr. John Alison Uy of the Vehicle Inspection Center Operators Association of the Philippines (VICOAP) elaborated on the importance of road safety and road-worthy vehicles to avoid road crashes and deaths.
How to build a marketing plan for your small business
Marketing is a tool that businesses can employ to increase brand awareness, acquire customers, and improve engagement. But is there a right way to do marketing? In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld asks what businesses should prioritize in their marketing campaigns with Ashish Goel, product marketing manager of Zoho Corporation's Campaigns, Marketing Automation, and Sites divisions.
Are we ready for war? Philippine defense and the risk of conflict
What advantage does the Philippines have when it comes to national defense? How should the Philippines approach the West Philippine Sea issue? Should the country prepare for war? In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld talks to Norberto B. Gonzales, who twice served as Secretary of National Defense, on defense strategies, military aid, and the West Philippine Sea.
Staying safe in the sun: tips on preventing heat-related illnesses
The Philippines has a wet season and a dry season, or so the saying goes. Given the predictability of summer, in particular, what measures can Filipinos take to protect themselves from the heat?
In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld speaks with Dr. Albert Francis E. Domingo, the Department of Health spokesperson, on how to both spot the symptoms of - and prevent - heat-related illnesses.
Interview
The corporate benefits of hiring PWDs
Is it costly to hire with persons with disabilities, or PWDs? Are PWDs only limited to certain roles? In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld speaks with Grant Javier, executive director of Project Inclusion Network, about the most common misconceptions surrounding PWD employees, as well as the benefits of hiring them.
Recorded remotely on March 21, 2024. Produced by Arjale Jayrie G. Queral.
Miscommunication is at the heart of startup failures
Contrary to popular belief, it's not only the lack of funding that spells doom among startup teams.
In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld speaks with Martin Gonzalez, creator of Google's Effective Founders Project, about co-founder conflicts, quality disagreements, and the necessity of having difficult conversations very early in a partnership.
Safeguarding the Philippine gambling sector from online scams
Online gambling has evolved, thanks to advancements in technology and innovations within the industry. With this evolution, however, also comes the rise of sophisticated gambling fraud.
In this B-Side episode, BusinessWorld speaks with Frederic Ho, Jumio Corporation's vice president of Asia Pacific, on how online gambling has evolved, and how both consumers and the authorities can protect the
Forging the future of AI: Women can take the lead
More than giving us answers and ideas in seconds after typing in our prompts, generative artificial intelligence (genAI) is increasingly appreciated as a tool that can positively impact businesses. According to the latest study by the IBM Institute for Business Value entitled, “Forging the future of AI: Women can take the lead” genAI, alongside disrupting workflows, gives women "a once-in-a-c
The sweet rewards of cacao farming in the Philippines
To cap off 2023, the BBC released its 100 Women list, naming women who have inspired and influenced people worldwide.
Among those on the list are former US First Lady Michelle Obama and human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, and a 25-year-old Filipina farmer and entrepreneur named Louise Mabulo.
Ms. Mabulo, the daughter of San Fernando Camarines Sur mayor Fermin Mabulo, joins 27 other Climate Pioneers
Philippines, Taiwan, and the uncertain future
The Philippines is so close to Taiwan that, as the old joke suggests, one could swim across the Bashi Channel to get there. Their connection goes beyond that, with the future of their geopolitical fates in question.
In this B-Side episode, Girard Mariano L. Lopez, a Filipino student in Taiwan and representative of the Asian pro-democracy group Milk Tea Alliance, discusses with BusinessWorld report
SMEs and the growing risks of cyberattacks
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) face cyberattack risks due to their less advanced technologies, making them susceptible to breaches.
Many of these businesses are not aware that cyberattacks could have severe consequences, according to a cybersecurity expert.
In this B-Side episode, Daniel Bernard, chief business officer of cybersecurity technology company Crowdstrike, discusses with BusinessWo
Augmenting human capabilities and creativity with generative AI
The constant pursuit of innovation is a testament to human’s inherent curiosity and creativity. With the advancement of technology, people are constantly seeking innovative solutions to enhance their efficiency and productivity. In this regard, generative artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the most promising technologies, which complements human capabilities, augments creativity, and drives pr
Destigmatizing mental health discussions in the workplace
Breaking down the stigma surrounding discussions about mental health challenges is crucial, especially in workplaces where employees might be hesitant to share their struggles, fearing judgment regarding their professional capabilities, a mental health expert said.
In this B-Side episode, Gia Sison, national adviser of the Youth for Mental Health Coalition, discusses with BusinessWorld reporter Jo
The case for growing vegetables in one’s backyard
Home gardening has benefits beyond the purpose of serving as a diversion from the pandemic. In this B-Side episode, multimedia producer Patricia Mirasol speaks with Ma. Elena P. van Tooren, executive director of East-West Seed Foundation, about home gardening, the types of vegetables to grow in tropical countries, and tips for budding urban gardeners.
East-West Seed Foundation is the corporate soc
Monopolized power and election-related violence in the Philippines
Elections in the Philippines have evolved into brutal political competitions over the years, with the persistent claims of general peace and safety often overshadowing the reality of election-related incidents (ERIs).
In this B-side episode, Rona Ann V. Caritos, executive director for the Legal Network of Truthful Elections (LENTE), discusses with BusinessWorld reporter Miguel Hanz L. Antivola the
Understanding the risks posed by fake and low-quality drugs
Fake and low-quality medicines have become more common and are being sold at lower prices through online platforms.
In this B-Side episode, Monash University professor Michelle McIntosh discusses the effects of subpar medication on the overall health of people with BusinessWorld reporter Adrian H. Halili.
The repayment slowdown: Insights on Filipino debt trends
As household savings were depleted during the pandemic, more Filipinos relied on credit to manage their daily expenses.
Now, with the rising cost of living due to inflation and higher interest rates for borrowing money, consumers are struggling to repay their debts.
This reality is reflected in Collectius’ own internal data, which shows a slowdown in debt repayment rates in the first half of this
How can Philippines restore Manila Bay?
Manila Bay has been exposed to rapid urbanization over the years and is now in need of rehabilitation.
In this B-Side episode, Jerwin Baure, a marine science researcher, discusses with BusinessWorld reporter Sheldeen Talavera how Manila Bay has changed over the years and how it can be restored.
Future-proofing Philippine education with technology
The Philippine education sector must maintain the strides it has made in technology adoption to upgrade teaching methods and prepare students for future jobs that require a deep understanding of technology, an expert said.
Modern digital education platforms offer educators data that can help address students' needs.
In this B-Side episode, Ryan Lufkin, vice president of Global Strategy at Inst
Divorce in the PHL: Reimagining Filipino norms and values
Divorce is quite a taboo topic in the predominantly Catholic Philippines. Lobbying for divorce has mapped its way into Filipinos’ understanding of the State, religion, family, abuse, principle, and love.
In this B-side episode, Athena Charanne R. Presto, a sociologist and policy consultant for the United Nations Development Programme, discusses with BusinessWorld reporter Miguel Hanz L. Antivola t
Steering clear of financial predators: Lessons for PHL MSMEs from Mongolia
Loan sharks, or informal lenders, exploit small businesses with exorbitant interest rates.
In this B-Side episode, Baasandorj Davaasuren, chief business development officer of fintech solution company AND Global, discusses with BusinessWorld reporter Aaron Michael C. Sy some learnings from Mongolia’s experience with loan sharks, aiming to guide micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the P
From joyful living to empowering spaces: The impact of interior design
Good design offers numerous benefits, including its potential to enhance daily life, boost business efficiency, empower marginalized groups, and improve public spaces, according to an expert.
In this B-Side episode, Nina Santamaria, principal designer of interior design firm Grupo Santamaria, talks to BusinessWorld senior reporter Joseph L. Garcia about the benefits of good design for business, ho
Beyond handshakes: In search of a diplomatic silver lining amid South China Sea tensions
For the longest time, the Philippines has maintained a modest relationship with its Southeast Asian neighbors. Recurring tensions in the South China Sea have left the ten-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) seeking clarity on how to navigate potential conflicts with China, even with the involvement of the United States.
In this B-Side episode, Herman Joseph S. Kraft, a political
