Event | Global AI Expert Tim Santos to Lead Strategic AI Masterclass for Philippine Business Leaders

MAKATI, PHILIPPINES — As businesses worldwide pivot toward artificial intelligence, a critical

gap remains between strategic interest and operational execution. To address this, Geeks On A

Beach (GOAB) and Symph.co are proud to announce the AI Implementation Masterclass:

Bridging the Gap from Strategy to Execution, taking place on May 22, 2026, in Makati.

Global Expertise, Local Impact

The masterclass will be led by Tim Santos, a veteran AI practitioner operating at the frontier of the

industry. Based in London, Santos serves as a Director of Product at Graphcore—a global pioneer

in AI hardware and a key innovator in the chip industry. As a UK-based Filipino and lead author of

the Philippine AI Report 2025, Tim is bringing his experience from the heart of the global AI market

to help the Philippines lead in AI adoption.

"A Silicon Valley playbook won’t just copy-paste to the Philippines," says Santos. "We’re taking the

ground truth from 175 Philippine organizations and translating global best practices into local

nuances. I’m here to help our local talent get maximum performance out of this technology and

build an ecosystem that actually works for the Philippines."

Moving Past the Hype

Unlike typical seminars that focus on the theoretical "what" of AI, this five-hour intensive workshop

focuses on the "how." Attendees will move through a structured three-phase sprint:

● The Local Landscape: Analyzing data-driven insights from the Philippine AI Report 2025.

● Live Strategy Sprint: Using Large Language Models (LLMs) and expert frameworks to

identify high-ROI use cases.

● The 30-60-90 Day Roadmap: Building a ready-to-use, executable action plan.

The event is open to all who are serious about implementing practical AI solutions. Santos strongly

encourages the attendance of "Strategic Duos"—pairs consisting of a Decision Maker

(CEO/Founder/Business Leader) and an Executor (CTO/Product/Tech Lead)—to ensure plans are

both business-aligned and technically sound. The venue partner for this event is Zero-Ten Park, a

Japanese-founded, premier co-working space in Makati.

Event Details

● Date: Friday, May 22, 2026

● Time: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM (Masterclass) | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Private Advisory, by

application only)

● Venue: Zero-Ten Park Manila Makati, 11F, Frabelle Business Center, 111 Rada, Legazpi

Village, Makati City

● Registration: https://luma.com/GOABS17 or email hello@geeksonabeach.com.

Exclusive Strategic Advisory

Following the workshop, Tim Santos will offer two 90-minute 1-on-1 private consultations for

leadership teams. These sessions allow companies to stress-test their AI roadmaps and get direct

answers from an international AI expert, ensuring strategies align with global best practices while

saving months of trial and error.

● Availability: Limited to two companies (up to two leaders per session).

● How to Apply: Application details are available on the main workshop registration page.

Event | Aria Hotel and Residences Unveils Its Distinctive Brand of Hospitality

 

A Gentle Harmony Unfolds

Nestled within an iconic structure that reflects the evolving skyline of Davao City, Aria Hotel and Residences presents a refined expression of contemporary elegance. Ideally positioned within this dynamic urban center, the property affords guests seamless access to the city’s business districts and cultural attractions, offering both convenience and distinction in equal measure.

 

Guests are welcomed into the expansive lobby spaces, which boast a seamless blend of sleek design. The ground flood is dedicated to receiving guests upon arrival. The lobby on the third floor is bathed in natural light streaming through floor-to-ceiling windows, where guests are assisted with check-in and check-out.

 

The hotel will feature 174 meticulously designed guestrooms, each conceived as a sanctuary of comfort and style. Thoughtfully appointed with convenient amenities, intuitive design, and elegant furnishings, every space is crafted to deliver a restful and elevated guest experience. In its current soft opening phase, the hotel introduces a curated selection of approximately 72 rooms, featuring 68 Deluxe Rooms and 4 Aria Suites, offering guests an exclusive preview of its commitment to excellence.

 

Culinary experiences are presently anchored by two distinctive dining outlets: Rhapsody Asian Fusion, the hotel’s all-day dining venue, and Cadenza Bar, its lobby bar. Each delivers a refined yet approachable interpretation of global and local flavors, with additional venues to be unveiled in due course.

 

Rhapsody Asian Fusion – a dynamic culinary destination that invites guests to explore the rich emotional tapestry of Asian gastronomy. Each dish unfolds as part of a larger narrative, capturing the depth, heritage, and evolution of flavors across the region. Guided by a vision that honors and elevates Asian influences, the restaurant presents a thoughtfully curated selection of refined dishes, available throughout the day for a truly immersive dining experience.

 

Cadenza Bar – an exhilarating interplay of artistry and spontaneity, where each visit unfolds like a solo performance. Moments of excitement and drama are expressed in every sip and bite, creating an atmosphere that is both dynamic and refined. Cadenza Bar offers a curated selection of elevated bar fare alongside a distinctive repertoire of handcrafted beverages.

 

Aria Hotels and Residences is poised to emerge as a distinguished culinary destination, with plans for five exceptional dining concepts ranging from relaxed gourmet fare to elevated luxury dining, culminating in a signature sky bar experience set against panoramic city views.

 

For meetings and events, the property currently offers three elegantly appointed venues, designed to accommodate intimate gatherings and corporate functions with precision and style. For larger occasions, the Soprano Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 260 guests. These offerings will expand to six versatile function rooms, catering to a wide spectrum of events and occasions.

 

Wellness and recreation are thoughtfully integrated into the guest experience. A newly renovated fitness center, located on the sixth floor, provides a modern environment for health and vitality, complemented by a dedicated children’s playroom designed to engage younger guests. At the pinnacle of the property, the 33^rd level reveals an awe-inspiring swimming pool, where guests can unwind while taking in sweeping panoramic views of the city.

“As a locally rooted brand, we take great pride in showcasing the richness of our culture, the strength of our people, and the spirit of our community,” says Colin Tan, General Manager. “We are committed not only to delivering exceptional hospitality but also to creating opportunities, supporting local talent, and contributing meaningfully to the destination we call home.”

 

The essence of Aria is deeply rooted in its namesake. An aria is a musical term in opera, describing a moment when a solo vocalist performs accompanied by an orchestra, the music rising and falling in harmony with the singer’s emotion and expression. At Aria Hotel and Residences, the property embodies the orchestra, whiles guests represent both the performer and the audience. In this interplay of service, experience, and emotion, a seamless harmony is created, with each stay unfolding like a unique composition, where every moment contributes to a memorable journey.

 

Aria Hotel and Residences stands as a testament to deliberate elegance, where every detail is considered, every experience elevated, and every stay defined by quiet sophistication, embodying the promise of “Life in Harmony.”

Event | Globe Empowers Communities in Western Mindanao; promotes digital inclusion and environmental protection

Globe continues to demonstrate its commitment to creating a #GlobeOfGood through a series of impactful initiatives across Western Mindanao, aimed at uplifting vulnerable communities, promoting digital inclusion, and protecting the environment.

In partnership with Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), Globe launched Digital Horizons for Out-of-School Youth (OSY), a strategic program designed to equip young Filipinos with essential digital literacy, athletic development, and leadership skills. By harnessing WMSU’s local expertise, the initiative delivers a sustainable and future-focused learning experience that empowers youth to participate meaningfully in the digital economy. A total of 40 OSY and 117 WMSU students, faculty, and staff joined the inaugural Digital Horizons program, marking a strong start to this impactful collaboration.

Globe also activated the GT Coop CAREavan at WMSU’s College of Social Sciences and Public Education, engaging over 150 students, faculty, and staff in a day of learning and giving. The event featured the Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP), which covered topics such as Digital Conduct, Cyberbullying, and Telco 101. A symbolic turn-over of shoes and whistles further emphasized Globe’s commitment to inclusive education and youth empowerment.

Reinforcing its sustainability mission, Globe volunteers partnered with local fisherfolk and leaders in Misamis Oriental to launch the Coastal Digital Roots initiative. A total of 917 mangrove seedlings were planted in Brgy. Baybay, Alubijid, helping protect the coastal ecosystem and strengthen community resilience against climate change.

“These initiatives reflect Globe’s deeper purpose to extend care, connectivity, and opportunity to every Filipino,” said Aldwin Mahusay, Assistant Director - HR Business Partner for VisMin, at Globe. “Whether it’s empowering youth or restoring our environment, we are committed to building a future where no one is left behind.”

Globe’s efforts in Western Mindanao exemplify how technology, partnerships, and purpose can come together to create lasting impact online and on-ground.

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

News | Globe calls for better coordination to address cable clean up in Davao City

Globe expressed its support for the Davao City Government’s ongoing cleanup of overhead cables, being implemented under Ordinance No. 0354-23, also known as the Anti-Spaghetti Wire Ordinance of 2023.

Passed in December 2023, the ordinance aims to improve public safety and urban order by requiring service providers to relocate their installations to designated poles and reduce cable clustering in public spaces. Full implementation began this year.

As the cleanup progresses, Globe shared the challenges that arise from receiving notifications only a few days before scheduled clearing activities—a timeline that makes it difficult for technical teams to adjust and properly inform affected customers.

“We are one with the Davao LGU in working toward safer, more resilient communities,” Adonis Evangelista, Globe Customer Field Services Head for Visayas and Mindanao, said. “At the same time, we hope for better coordination among all stakeholders involved, so that any disruption to essential services—like internet connectivity—can be minimized.”

Globe explained that the clearing operations can impact customers who rely on these services every day.

“We need time to notify our customers when their service may be interrupted, and to set expectations on restoration timelines,” Evangelista added. “While repairs typically take 24 to 48 hours, we will start restoration operations once clearing operations are done.”

Phase 2 of clearing operations is scheduled to commence on June 7, 2025, in the following areas:

●       Bonifacio Street

●       Rizal Street

●       Padre Gomez Street

●       Mabini Street

●       Artiaga Street

●       Faura Street

●       A. Quezon Street

●       Portions of Boulevard

●       Portions of Roxas

Globe emphasized its willingness to work closely with the LGU and all parties involved to reduce the impact on customers and help implement the ordinance more smoothly. The company has also committed to continuing real-time SMS alerts to affected customers and addressing service concerns as quickly as possible.

“This is beyond Globe’s control, but we want our customers to know we’re doing everything we can to manage the situation and restore service quickly,” Evangelista said. “We will continue to collaborate with the LGU and fellow providers to find a more coordinated approach that supports the city’s goals while protecting connectivity for Davao residents.”

Lifestyle | KodeGo Offers Flexible Training to Boost Digital Skills in Filipino Workplaces

KodeGo, 917Ventures’ EduTech startup, is expanding its services to cater more to local businesses looking to strengthen their digital capabilities and skills with the introduction of their new comprehensive suite of training courses.

KodeGo’s Universal Menu comprises a total of 26 training courses designed to meet the diverse needs of medium-to-large enterprises. This includes courses that can take them through soft skills, technical expertise, and career-focused competencies.

“Being part of the Globe Group, we share in the vision of creating a Digital Nation. We see our role in that as drivers and enablers of digital upskilling for all Filipinos," KodeGo Chief Executive Officer Ina Gervasio shared.

She added, “We wanted to build a roster of training courses that will not only upskill Filipinos technically–from basic to intermediate to advanced digital skills–but also equip them with key competencies that will help them better navigate today’s digital landscape.”

KodeGo’s Soft Skills Courses focus on enhancing essential workplace capabilities and equipping employees with foundational skills that will teach them best practices on how to drive team performance. Key topics include:

● Business Writing

● Professional Etiquette in the Workplace

● Essential Skills Training

● Time Management

● Relationship Management

● Stress Management

● Strategic Planning

● Growth Mindset

● Business Communications

● Creativity and Critical Thinking

● Leadership Foundations

On the technical side, KodeGo provides training in areas such as

● Business Analysis

● Project Management

● Data Science, and;

● Maximizing foundational tools, such as Microsoft Excel and MS Word

For businesses aiming to enhance their employees’ career-focused skills, courses cover high-demand areas including:

● Virtual Assistance

● Virtual Bookkeeping

● Full-stack development

● UI/UX design, and;

● Cloud Concepts, Security and Compliance via Amazon Web Services (AWS)

● DevOps and DevSecOps 

 

KodeGo began as a training boot camp that offered live courses, such as Full Stack Web Development to individuals seeking to build new skills. It later diversified its offerings by introducing short courses such as Virtual Assistance and Virtual Bookkeeping, catering to a broader audience.

Earlier this year, KodeGo transitioned to self-paced learning, further expanding its short course lineup to include programs such as Transcribing and Essential Skills before enriching its training menu to cater to the B2B sector.

KodeGo is dedicated to equipping Filipinos with essential digital skills, enabling them to seize growth opportunities and achieve their full potential.

Companies seeking to elevate their teams’ competencies can explore the full Universal Menu and partner with KodeGo for impactful training solutions. Further information is available at https://kodego.ph.