Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the driving force of the Philippine economy, making up 63% of the country’s total employment and contributing 36% to its gross value added, according to the World Bank Group. As 2026 unfolds, SMEs must continue to adapt to shifting customer needs and evolving market demands. Here are five practical strategies local businesses can apply to sustain and scale their growth this year:   #1 Upskill to Unlock Growth   Business owners are often jacks-of-all-trades, wearing multiple hats in running their enterprises. To keep up, they must continue investing in upskilling to manage these roles...

What does chasing your dreams look like in 2025? For young Filipinos, it's not just about getting by—it’s about thriving, hustling, and owning your future.   Young Filipinos are big dreamers, but the path to success is far from easy. Fast-rising insurance company EastWest Ageas Insurance explores this with its new digital series “#FYP (For Your PURPLE).” This follows a group of friends chasing stability and success. With each bite-sized episode, viewers will see the grit it takes to achieve one’s goals and how dreams can come true one step at a time.   Meet the PURPLE Barkada Chasing Big...

For young professionals starting to get serious about their future, the questions start piling up. Budgeting? Sure. Saving? Trying. Investing? Sounds intimidating, but it’s on the list. Life insurance? That still feels like a “someday” thing.   Until you read this: “Only 3 questions to get started with Sure Start by EastWest Ageas.”   Wait — What? Just Three?   No long questionnaires. No intimidating jargon. Only a simple form with three health and lifestyle questions. Answer that, and you’re on your way to securing your very first life insurance plan.   Insurance That Makes Things Simple   Sure Start by EastWest Ageas...

A new year means a fresh start! After a holiday season of treating yourself and spending time with your loved ones, now is the prime time to work on the goals you’ve set for 2025.   If your New Year’s resolution is to reach your financial goals –– to buy your first home, grow your emergency fund, or start saving up for retirement –– start 2025 right with little habits to help you address your money matters. Here are some tips to improve your financial well-being this year:   Start with the end in mind.The first step in financial planning...

As the year winds down and the excitement of holiday bonuses builds up, many Filipinos are thinking about how to make the most of their 13th-month pay. Whether it’s saving, investing, or rewarding yourself for a year of hard work, there are many ways to maximize your hard-earned cash.     Here are some ideas on how to use your 13th-month pay on meaningful and memorable experiences.      Have some R&R     The holiday season is the perfect time to schedule a vacation for some rest and relaxation. Be it solo or with family and friends, taking some time off isn’t...