Eastern Communications Achieves Increased Revenue, Furthers Mindanao Expansion in 2025

[From L to R:] Eastern Communications’ (EC) AVP and Head of Marketing & Customer Experience Jed Estanislao, EC Product Manager Edwin De Jesus, EC CAN Planning & Engineering Head Rachelle Roque, EC Brand Communications Head Hannah Lazatin, and Contributing Editor of Asian Business Review, Simon Hyatt.

According to the latest e-Conomy SEA report by Google, Temasek, and Bain & Company, the Philippines recorded the fastest-growing internet economy among six Southeast Asian nations in 2024. Driven largely by the rising e-commerce sector, the country’s digital economy surged by 20%, with its gross merchandise value (GMV) rising from $26 billion in 2023 to $31 billion in 2024.

Eastern Communications Partners with AMS-IX, HGC Global Communications, and STT GDC Philippines to Strengthen PH’s Global Connectivity

Eastern Communications is the first Philippine telecom provider to partner with AMS-IX, one of the world’s largest peering hubs, along with global companies HGC and STT GDC Philippines. The partnership aims to provide faster and more secure links to international data networks, empowering Philippine enterprises with improved connectivity and expanded access to global Internet Protocol (IP) traffic.

With a shared vision of enhancing global connectivity for Philippine businesses, telecommunications and ICT company Eastern Communications, Amsterdam Internet Exchange (AMS-IX), HGC Global Communications, and ST Telemedia Global Data Centres Philippines (STT GDC Philippines) held an official launch event and contract signing ceremony on December 2, 2024, at New World Hotel Makati. [From L to R:] Eastern Communications Co-Coordinators Jaeson Evangelista and Atty. Aileen Regio, HGC Philippines President Michael De Castro, and AMS-IX International Partnership Director Onno Bos.

Eastern partners with NGOs to enhance mangrove ecosystems in Batangas and drive educational inclusivity

[From L to R] TeamAsia Marketing Manager Erika de Leon, Eastern Communications Co-Coordinators Jaeson Evangelista and Atty. Aileen Regio, and TeamAsia Associate Director Tins Flores, presenting the “Dream Kits” donated to the My Dream In A Shoebox Program.

As the Philippines’ premier telecommunication company, Eastern Communications is making significant strides towards sustainability, a goal that manifests in various Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. From preserving coastal ecosystems to uplifting underprivileged communities, Eastern Communications actively seeks to create a positive impact that aligns with global standards and supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028.

Eastern Communications Partners with Industry Experts to Share Cybersecurity Insights for Business Protection

Eastern Communications launches Thoughts on Tech Series 2 video podcast, focusing on Cybersecurity Awareness, featuring News5 anchor Jes Delos Santos, DICT Undersecretary Jeffrey Dy, and other tech industry experts.

In observance of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Eastern Communications spoke with industry leaders for insights to help businesses safeguard themselves from the growing threat of cyberattacks.

Between January and August 2024, the Philippine National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-PH) reported over 2,000 cyber incidents affecting various organizations. This is part of a broader rise in cybercrimes in the country, with the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) documenting a 21.8% increase in cybercrime cases during the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

Eastern Communications Expands Reach to Roxas City’s Emerging Digital Hub

Eastern Communications and Roxas City partners raise a toast for Eastern’s launch in the city. [Form L to R:] ETPI Head of Visayas Regional Operations Rafael Castellano, Capiz Halaran Chamber of Commerce and Industry Former President Dale Bernas, Capiz Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office Head Rio Garcia, Province of Capiz Provincial Information Officer and Spokesperson Atty. Luvim Amores, honorable Roxas City Mayor Ronnie Dadivas, Segment Marketing Head Gian Conde, Regional Sales Division Head Anthony Co, and President & CEO of Pueblo De Panay Township Jose Neri Ong.

Eastern Communications Recognized and Awarded for Its Nationwide Network Infrastructure

Eastern Communications, recognized at the 2024 Asian Technology Excellence Awards in Conrad, Bangkok 

[From L to R:] Chris Head, Contributing Editor for Asian Business Review with Eastern Communications Team: Brand Communications Supervisor Angelou Leonardo, Co-Coordinator Vince Tempongko, AVP & Head of NPEI Delfin Lopez, Brand Communications Head Hannah Lazatin, and Outside Plant Director-NPEI Felipe Paez Jr.

Eastern Communications, the Philippines' pioneering telecommunications company and ICT solutions provider, proudly announces its victory at the Asian Technology Excellence Awards (ATEA) 2024. The telco provider won the Philippines Technology Excellence Award in the Infrastructure Technology - Telecommunications category for its groundbreaking Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) project, a major initiative aimed at strengthening the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure amidst natural calamities.

Sam Catantan to bounce back stronger in 2025 SEA Games

Backed by Eastern Communications telco, Filipina fencer aims to rebound from injury and turn dreams into victories.

Photo from Sam Catantan’s Instagram (@samctntn)

Paris Olympics 2024 Filipina fencer Samantha Catantan is already looking for a possible stint in the 2025 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Thailand in hopes of teaming up with her siblings and fellow fencers, Ysah and Sophie. 

Catantan said the SEA Games is one of her goals for next year since her activities or tournaments could be limited as she is set to undergo surgery as she tore again her Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) on the left knee during the Paris Olympics three weeks ago. 

“That’s our dream, us sisters to play together in the SEA Games. If things go as planned, I will be ready for the event coming back from the injury,” said Catantan, whose support from the private sector continues to grow as Eastern Communications, a premier telecommunications and ICT solutions provider in the country, is backing her as she goes through recovery and training. 

Digital Transformation Across Regions: Local Governments Envision Economic Growth with PDSCN Connection

Eastern Communications Team (From L to R: Regional Sales Division Head Anthony Co, AVP & Head of Marketing Jed Estanislao, Executive Account Manager Deo Nazareno, and Segment Marketing Head Gian Conde) at a courtesy visit with Cebu’s Acting City Mayor Atty. Raymond Garcia.

Cebu City Government gets dedicated internet speed boost from Eastern Communications

As the Philippines undergoes digital transformation, it has become critical for local governments to deploy reliable internet connectivity and digitalization. The Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) exemplifies this effort, aiming to enhance the nation's digital infrastructure.

Eastern Communications Bridges Digital Divide in Bohol, Supporting Local Businesses and Smart City Initiatives

Eastern Communications and esteemed guests from the local government of Bohol and the Bohol Chamber of Commerce and Industry raise a toast to the telco's launch in Tagbilaran City. [From L to R:] Eastern Communications (EC) Head of Visayas Regional Operations Rafael Castellano, EC AVP & Head of Marketing & Customer Experience Jed Estanislao, EC Executive Account Manager Deogracias Nazareno, EC Emerging Business & Regional Sales Head Anthony Co, EC Segment Marketing Head Gian Conde, Board Member of the First District Province of Bohol Aldner R. Damalerio, EC VP & Head of Sales Mike Castañeda, Bohol Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) Executive VP Atty. Lucas M. Nunag, BEDIPO Head Maria Fe Dominise, Tagbilaran Uptown Realty Corporation President Engr. Albert Uy, and BCCI Member George Lim

Eastern Communications supports DICT in fueling digital inclusivity in the Philippines

Photo from one of the Access Eastern event runs, with Eastern’s Product Manager Jovee Gecha providing guests with updates on the latest ICT solutions and digital innovations.

Eastern Communications, the premier telecommunications provider in the Philippines, recently supported the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s (DICT) groundbreaking Bayang Digital initiative, a project aimed at enhancing digital infrastructure and connectivity across the Philippines.

In time for National ICT Month, The DICT’s "Bayang Digital ang Bagong Pilipinas" initiative envisions a nation where digital connectivity unites everyone, streamlines government services through technology, prioritizes cyber safety, and creates innovation and growth opportunities for every Filipino.

Baguio City’s LGU and Hotels Receive ICT Proficiency and Internet Connectivity Boost as City Hits Revenue Targets by 45 Percent

Baguio’s local government and hotels partner with Eastern Communications for reliable connectivity & ICT services.

Eastern Communications enhances the digital landscape of Baguio by rolling out innovative ICT services tailored to the city's hospitality and government sectors. The company aligns with Baguio's goal of boosting economic and tourism growth, aiming to support the region’s resurgence post-pandemic. 

Baguio city is a significant contributor to Cordillera’s economy, and is on track to meet its PHP2.74 billion collection target for 2024. Having already collected 45% of this goal in the first four months, Baguio City Assistant Treasurer Fernando Ragma reported a 12% increase in collections compared to 2023, with PHP1.205 billion gathered from January 1 to April 30.

To sustain this momentum, Eastern Communications is committed to equipping more businesses with digital solutions to help them thrive.

Eastern Communications' employee-centric culture earns Great Place To Work Certification™

Eastern Communications celebrates its most loyal employees through the “Araw ng Parangal” longevity awards, honoring those who have dedicated their service from five to over thirty years.

Eastern Communications proudly announces its 2024 Great Place To Work® Certification™, a prestigious accolade based on employee feedback. An impressive 92% of Eastern's employees affirmed that they feel welcomed upon joining the company.

Great Place To Work®, the global authority on workplace culture, bases this certification on real-time employee feedback about their company culture and the leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention, and increased innovation. Earning this recognition establishes Eastern Communications as a leading workplace in the Philippines.

"Great Place To Work Certification™ is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience," says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, the Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work. She emphasizes that Certification is the sole official recognition earned by the real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture. “By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that Eastern Communications stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees."

Eastern Communications Spearheads Digital Transformation Through ICT Enablement Sessions

Aiming to elevate the Philippines' below-average rank of 60% in the UN ICT Development Index 

Eastern Communications Product Manager Jovee Gecha discusses ICT trends at the 2024 Access Eastern run in Clark Pampanga.

Digitalization has become the cornerstone of growth for businesses in the Philippines. According to the International Data Corp. (IDC), Information Communication Technology (ICT) services spending in Asia-Pacific reached $1.3 trillion in 2023. Eastern Communications, the Philippines’ first telecommunications provider, is now leading the integration of ICT solutions in the country to fuel economic growth and entrepreneurship in the digital era.

While the IDC also reports a growing regional dependence on emerging technologies, with an average projected growth of 4.6% until 2027, the Philippines faces challenges. The United Nations' ICT Development Index shows the country scoring 65 out of 100, which falls below the global average (72.8) and ranks third lowest in Southeast Asia.

Eastern Communications Clinches Double Victory at 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards for Network Infra and Thought Leadership

Eastern Communications’ awards from the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards

Eastern Communications, the Philippines’ premier telecommunications provider, gained international recognition as a Bronze Stevie Award winner at the 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards. The award-giving body honors outstanding achievements in business across the region, celebrating organizations and individuals who demonstrate excellence in various fields.

"We are honored to be recognized once again by the APAC Stevie Awards. This win reaffirms our role in driving the digital transformation in the Philippines. We will continue to empower businesses and communities through our infrastructure expansion and ICT education initiatives,” said Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications.

Eastern Communications Marks 30 Years of Philippine Internet, Leading Innovations and Inclusive Connectivity

Photo of fiber optic subsea cables transferred in the cable ship of Eastern Communications’ most recent joint infrastructure project, the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN)

As the Philippines marks the 30th anniversary of the Internet in the country, Eastern Communications, a pioneering telecommunications company with a rich 145-year history, proudly celebrates this significant milestone alongside the nation. With a long-standing commitment to providing inclusive and reliable internet connectivity and ICT solutions, Eastern Communications reaffirms its dedication to being a Partner in Progress for every Filipino.

The internet's journey in the Philippines began on March 29, 1994. This significant step into the digital age was made possible through the collaborative efforts of private and government institutions. This groundbreaking achievement laid the groundwork for the Philippines to join the global internet community that transformed communication, education, and businesses across the nation.

The New Architects of Tech: Three Female Leaders Creating a More Inclusive Industry

[From L to R}: Tech women leaders Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Director IV Emmy Lou Versoza-Delfin, Eastern Communications Co-Coordinator Atty. Aileen Regio, and Wilcon Depot Inc. Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Rosemarie B. Ong, shaping the future of a more inclusive tech industry.

In an era of rapid technological advancement, women are challenging the status quo, redefining innovation, and promoting inclusivity in the industry. Their contributions, from research and development to leadership, demonstrate that women are essential drivers of technological progress and diversity.

According to a Boston Consulting Group study, only 35% of the tech workforce in the Philippines comprises women, despite having the highest number of women technology graduates in the Southeast Asia region (48%). The disparity of opportunity and gender-based discrimination in the workforce is still prevalent despite years of advancing the rights and welfare of women in a male-dominated sector—or perhaps in society. 

Amidst the challenges, these three leading ladies are helping forge a path for future female innovators to make their mark in the technology landscape.

Eastern Communications activates submarine cable PDSCN 'Express Route,' improving reliable connectivity in typhoon-prone regions

Eastern Communications lights up Express Route in the joint Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) project.

Eastern Communications has completed its "Express Route'' project as part of the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) joint venture, enhancing the Philippines' connectivity reliability. This initiative aims to provide robust and inclusive internet connectivity, with a focus on improving services in regions frequently affected by typhoons and natural calamities.

Building a More Secure Web for Businesses: Eastern Communications Leads Awareness on Safer Internet Day

In alignment with the global observance of Safer Internet Day 2024, premier telecommunications company Eastern Communications steps forward to highlight the critical issue of online security. Amid the growing prevalence of online scams, particularly through work emails and misleading links, Eastern Communications is at the forefront of educating and protecting businesses and individuals alike.

In 2023, Sophos revealed that 30% of cyber attacks were orchestrated through email, while ransomware assaults on private sector businesses led to 84% revenue losses for the victims.

Eastern Communications celebrates 145 Years of High-Tech and High-Touch Services to Filipinos

Eastern Communications' Co-Coordinators Atty. Aileen Regio and Vince Tempongko give their celebratory message at Eastern’s 'Timeless Connections' 145th anniversary celebration

Premier telecommunications company, Eastern Communications, welcomes its 145th year anniversary bringing life-changing innovations from households to businesses as the longstanding connectivity and ICT solutions provider in the country. 

Eastern Communications’ Co-Coordinators Atty. Aileen Regio and Vince Tempongko shared that Eastern has been a prevailing telco partner of businesses, organizations, and families since it was founded in 1878. Its 145th milestone anniversary signifies its commitment to uphold its promise to deliver high-tech and high-touch solutions to Filipinos.

Eastern Communications drives Heart of Service initiatives to enrich young minds this holiday season

[From L to R] Eastern Communications Co-Coordinator Atty. Aileen Regio, MDIAS Founder Monette Iturralde-Hamlin, and Eastern Communications Co-Coordinator Vince Tempongko presenting the “Dream Kits” samples to be donated to the My Dream In A Shoebox Program.

To celebrate the season of giving, premier telecommunications company Eastern Communications runs a series of Heart of Service initiatives aimed at providing underprivileged children with essential learning tools and experiences for a brighter future. 

As a longstanding advocate of accessible education to uplift communities, Eastern Communications extends its sense of malasakit by supporting children in need. This is also in support of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal for inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.