SINGAPORE, April 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda’s latest data unveils which Asian travelers have shopping top-of-mind when planning trips. Topping the ranking are travelers from Taiwan and South Korea, with nearly one in four (23%) respondents from each market saying shopping motivated their trips. Travelers from the Philippines (22%), Malaysia (20%) and Japan (15%) round out the top five, with Thailand (14%), Indonesia (12%), India (8%) and Vietnam (7%) completing the ranking.

The findings come from a survey of Asian travelers as part of Agoda’s 2026 Travel Outlook Report, which highlights the prominence of shopping as a travel motivator. The data reveals that retail experiences remain a major draw across Asia, with options ranging from luxury malls and designer districts to night markets and local artisan hubs. For many travelers, shopping is not just transactional but experiential, offering a way to discover local culture, secure unique souvenirs, and enjoy curated retail environments that are destinations in their own right.

Agoda’s findings also reflect evolving consumer behaviors where travelers combine leisure and retail: planning trips around seasonal sales, pop-up events, and specialty shopping districts. The trend suggests a stronger culture of travel-led retail, whether for fashion, electronics, beauty, or local crafts. The result is a travel ecosystem that turns shopping into a core part of the itinerary and drives demand for conveniently located accommodations, curated experiences and retail-focused activities.

Jun Dong, Vice President at Agoda, commented, “Shopping remains a powerful reason to travel across Asia, and our data shows just how varied retail motivations can be by market. It’s particularly interesting that Taiwanese and South Korean travelers prioritize shopping as a key motivator when planning trips, highlighting their enthusiasm for exploring diverse retail landscapes and seeking unique shopping experiences. At Agoda, we ensure travelers can easily find accommodations that place them right at the heart of the shopping experiences they value most.”

Travelers can use Agoda’s intuitive search and filters to find accommodations near top shopping districts and browse over 6 million properties, more than 300,000 activities and over 130,000 flight routes — all bookable in one place. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app or visit Agoda.com for more.

MANILA, Philippines, April 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — NEC Philippines today announced its inaugural participation in the 8th Philippine Airport Summit 2026, to be held on April 22–23 at the City of Dreams, Manila. The move marks the official entry of NEC’s specialized aviation technologies into the local sector, aiming to modernize the nation’s infrastructure through advanced biometrics, AI, and decentralized identity solutions.

“At NEC Philippines, we are dedicated to building smarter, more resilient systems that support Filipino communities every day,” shares Sherlyn Omalin, President, NEC Philippines. “Our debut at this summit is a key part of our mission in creating what’s ahead for the aviation industry. We look forward to collaborating with both public and private sector partners to ensure Philippine airports are equipped with secure and people-centered technologies that meet the needs of the modern traveler.”

As the Philippine aviation industry prepares for a significant capacity expansion—with domestic passenger traffic already trending above pre-pandemic levels and the Asia-Pacific region set to drive 45% of global travel growth by 2040—NECPH is introducing a suite of digital tools engineered to optimize both operational oversight and the traveler experience.

NEC’s exhibition will feature a live look at its “Global Aviation Solutions” portfolio, which includes:

• Mobile Boarding Application: A secure, automated verification solution designed to streamline boarding while maintaining the highest level of public safety.
• Decentralized ID (Verifiable Credentials): A digital wallet-based system that allows travelers to manage their own passport and ID data, enabling a “single token” end-to-end journey.
• Video Recognition AI x LLM (VLM): An intelligent monitoring tool that automatically extracts and summarizes ground handling footage to improve real-time management.
• Baggage Counting Solutions: A data-driven system built to simplify the boarding process, enhance punctuality, and boost overall passenger satisfaction.

“We are excited to demonstrate how our proven global expertise can assist the Philippines in modernizing its aviation gateways and harmonizing local operations with international digital standards. We are keen to connect with people who share the same vision,” says Wataru Okada, Senior Director for Global Aviation, NEC Asia-Pacific.

Supporting the Future of Philippine Infrastructure

NEC’s entry into the aviation summit aligns with the Philippine government’s “Build Better More” program, which has prioritized the modernization of regional hubs and the landmark P170.6-billion rehabilitation of NAIA. By deploying world-class digital identity and secure frameworks, NEC Philippines is committed to providing the technological backbone necessary to transform these physical expansions into efficient and world-class gateways. This strategic participation reinforces NEC’s efforts in actively creating what’s ahead for the nation’s digital infrastructure.

About NEC Philippines, Inc.

For nearly 30 years, NEC Philippines has been providing products, solutions, and support to the Philippine market, offering Biometrics Authentication System, Financial Solutions & Services, Public Safety Solutions & Services, Telecom Carrier Solutions, and Smart Transport Solutions. NEC Philippines leverages on the NEC global brand while collaborating with NEC Group Affiliates to bring solutions aiming to contribute to a safe, inclusive, and forward-thinking Philippines.

For more information and to learn more about NEC Philippines’ innovative solutions, please visit https://ph.nec.com/

When the rich aroma of the East meets the charm of Southeast Asia, an invitation to self-indulgent buzz and urban romance is quietly brewing in Singapore.

SINGAPORE, April 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — From April 15 to 21, 2026, the limited-time pop-up event of 29° Crush On by Wuliangye, themed “My Youth, My Way,” will make a dazzling debut at Wuliangye Dining Singapore. In this vibrant city where diverse cultures and modern energy converge, Wuliangye will present a more relaxed, more international expression, offering consumers a uniquely immersive buzzed experience.

A Toast to Connection: Continuing Wuliangye’s Story in Singapore

China and Singapore share longstanding cultural connections. As a leading representative of strong-aroma baijiu, Wuliangye has established a growing presence within Singapore’s dining and social landscape. Through participation in TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference, the establishment of Wuliangye Dining Singapore, and involvement in global events such as 2025 Michelin Guide Ceremony in Singapore, Wuliangye continues to strengthen its engagement with the local market of Singapore.

29° Crush On: An Innovative Expression of Baijiu

In 1978, Wuliangye pioneered the low-alcohol innovation in the industry with a forward-looking vision. By applying the “Optimal Selection Method” and “Dual Selection Method” developed by renowned mathematician Hua Luogeng, Wuliangye solved the technical challenges of haze and weakened flavor caused by alcohol reduction.

With its smooth taste and versatile formats, 29° Crush On breaks away from traditional baijiu drinking methods and occasions. It serves as a perfect companion for unwinding after a long day, offering a refined option for personal enjoyment. Suitable for neat-drinking, with ice, or mixed with juice, tea, or sparkling water, it enables consumers to create layered, refreshing drinks—effortlessly crafting their own “Oriental cocktails.”

Wuliangye Dining Singapore: A Chinese Aesthetic Space in the Singapore

The event venue, Wuliangye Dining Singapore, is located in Bugis, the core district of Singapore. The restaurant is dedicated to innovatively blending Chinese baijiu culture with the essence of Chinese cuisine, creating a new international dining experience where “food carries the spirit of the baijiu, and baijiu enhances the flavor of the food.”

It also introduces the concept of “Aromatic Cantonese Cuisine,” featuring reduced salt and oil techniques, integration of Southeast Asian ingredients, and the application of fermented distillers’ grains—bringing healthier and more innovative Cantonese dishes to Singapore’s food lovers.

“My Youth, My Way”: A 7-Day Pop-Up in Singapore

From April 15 to 21 (local time), Wuliangye Dining Singapore will host the limited-time “My Youth, My Way” themed pop-up event.

The venue will feature a sky-blue installation inspired by the signature color of the bottle of 29° Crush On, blending modern design aesthetics with the poetic essence of Eastern colors. The installation combines modern design with Eastern visual elements, creating a visually engaging, photo-friendly environment—particularly during evening hours.

During the event, one exclusive signature cocktail will be introduced each day. Each creation highlights the versatility of 29° Crush on, incorporating tropical fruits, botanical elements, and sparkling textures to deliver a distinctive tasting experience tailored to Singapore.

As the aromatic richness of baijiu meets the charm of Southeast Asia in Singapore, Wuliangye continues to explore new intersections between Chinese baijiu and global food and beverage culture—driven by internationalization, youthfulness, fashion, and trendiness. This April, let us meet in Singapore and embark on a “Crush On” buzzed journey together.

• Small businesses show strong growth momentum and optimism for 2026.
• Technology investments are paying off.
• Access to external funding remains a challenge.

SINGAPORE, April 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Small businesses in the Philippines are entering 2026 with strong momentum and optimism, according to the latest annual Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey by global professional accounting body CPA Australia.

The survey found that 79 per cent of Philippines’ small businesses reported growth in 2025, the strongest result since 2019 and the fourth-highest among the 11 markets surveyed.

Looking ahead, confidence among small businesses in their own prospects remains exceptionally strong. 89 per cent expect their businesses to grow in 2026, the highest growth expectation across all surveyed markets.

This positive outlook reflects underlying strengths within Philippines’ small business sector. This includes a strong focus on customers, innovation, export opportunities and the positive impact of younger entrepreneurs.

Nearly 47 per cent of small business owners are under the age of 40, above the survey average of 38 per cent. Survey data consistently shows that younger business owners are more likely to pursue high-growth strategies such as adopting digital tools, investing in innovation, engaging with overseas markets and improving customer satisfaction.

Rufus Pinto, CPA member and Group Head of Enterprise Services at BDO UniBank said: “Small business owners in the Philippines continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience and optimism. Their willingness to innovate, embrace new technologies and focus on customer experiences is helping drive business growth despite a challenging global environment.”

Although small businesses in the Philippines lag some developing economies in overall technology adoption, those that invested are seeing clear benefits.

The survey found that 68 per cent of small businesses reported that technology investments improved profitability in 2025, surpassing the survey average of 56 per cent.

Digital payment adoption remains lower than most developing economies, with 73 per cent of small businesses receiving at least 10 per cent of sales through digital payment platforms. Cash transactions continue to play a significant role, with 77 per cent of businesses receiving at least half of their sales in cash, the highest percentage among the surveyed markets.

Despite these gaps in digital adoption, the strong profitability outcomes suggest that technology investments remain an important driver for enhanced efficiency and competitiveness among small businesses.

Access to finance continues to be a key challenge for small businesses in the Philippines.

About 64 per cent of small businesses required external funding in 2025, broadly in line with the survey average of 61 per cent. However, the Philippines was ranked as the least easy market for small businesses to access finance among those surveyed, a challenge that is expected to persist in 2026.

This may limit the ability of some small businesses to invest in technology or upskill their workforce. The findings also highlighted that business owners are more likely to seek advice from trusted personal networks rather than professional advisers. This may partly reflect the challenges associated with accessing external financial support.  

Erwin Vincent G. Alcala, CPA member and Trustee of Saint Paul School of Professional Studies – Leyte and St. Peter’s College – Ormoc City emphasized: “Small businesses remain the lifeblood of the Philippine economy – driving innovation, creating jobs, and sustaining communities. By ensuring access to adequate capital and professional advisory support, we empower these enterprises not only to grow, but to transform – embracing technology and expanding their reach to compete more effectively in both local and global markets.”

Overall, the survey findings suggest that while small businesses in Philippines are navigating global headwinds, their strong growth outlook, optimism, entrepreneurial mindset and willingness to innovate position them well for the year ahead.

About the survey

CPA Australia’s 17th annual Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey was conducted among small business owners/senior managers during November and December 2025 to identify the characteristics of successful small businesses across the region. The findings for the survey come from 4,166 small businesses in 11 markets. From the commencement of the survey in 2009, we have surveyed over 50,000 small businesses across the region. These include Australia, Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan region and Vietnam.

About CPA Australia

CPA Australia is Australia’s leading professional accounting body and one of the largest in the world. We have more than 176,000 members in over 100 countries and regions. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on local, national and international issues affecting the accounting profession and public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. A CPA is a Certified Practising Accountant. More at cpaaustralia.com.au

SINGAPORE, April 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Analytic Edge (a C5i company), a provider of AI-powered marketing analytics solutions, announced that it has been badged as an official TikTok Marketing Partner in the measurement category, with a specialty in Media Mix Modeling (MMM). This badge highlights Analytic Edge’s advanced measurement capabilities and reinforces its position as an analytics partner for brands seeking accurate, real-time insights into TikTok’s contribution within the broader marketing ecosystem.

As a TikTok Badged Measurement Partner, Analytic Edge can now offer its clients the benefit of more accurate and granular TikTok ads campaign data, enabling sharper measurement of the impact of TikTok in their marketing mix. With TikTok becoming an important media investment platform across verticals, there is a growing need for improved measurement of TikTok ads campaign performance in order to optimize investments for maximum impact. Analytic Edge will integrate TikTok’s campaign performance data directly into its proprietary Marketing Mix Modeling platform, Demand Drivers™, to deliver these benefits to its clients worldwide.

Commenting on the development, Dr. Santosh Nair, SVP and BU Head at Analytic Edge, a C5i company, said, “We are proud to be badged as a TikTok measurement partner, with a focus on Media Mix Modeling (MMM). This is a testament to Analytic Edge’s expertise and reputation in delivering data-driven marketing insights. The partner badge will now enable us to bring TikTok’s rich campaign data directly into our MMM solutions, helping brands measure the full impact of their marketing investments, optimize media spend, and make smarter, more confident decisions. We are excited to continue supporting our clients in navigating an increasingly complex media landscape and unlocking growth through better measurement.”

The MMM Badge provides Analytic Edge’s clients with several key advantages:

• Full-funnel measurement – Gain visibility into TikTok’s role from brand awareness to conversion uplift and accurately capture the impact of TikTok investments across various formats.
• Automated data integration – Benefit from seamless, scalable data ingestion powered by TikTok’s MMM API.
• Advanced forecasting & insights – Leverage predictive modelling to simulate future performance and guide strategic planning.

This recognition further establishes the position of Analytic Edge in marketing measurement, enabling brands to navigate evolving consumer behavior, platform dynamics, and signal challenges while maximizing the impact of their TikTok investments.

About Analytic Edge

Analytic Edge, a C5i group company, is a global provider of AI-powered marketing analytics and insights. The company delivers advanced, real-time analytics solutions that help brands make faster, smarter, and more cost-effective marketing and sales decisions.

Through proprietary technology available as SaaS or in-house deployments, Analytic Edge offers always-on analytics capabilities, such as marketing mix modeling, revenue growth management, campaign incrementality, and new product launch evaluation. Its intuitive, point-and-click software makes advanced analytics accessible and scalable across teams and markets.

With a client base spanning sectors including e-commerce, mobile apps, gaming, consumer goods, retail, and automotive, Analytic Edge supports global organizations.

For more information, visit www.analytic-edge.com 

Media Contact

Megha Chaudhry
Senior Vice President – Global Head of Marketing & Alliance Management, C5i
O: +1 (425) 615 7474 | E:  megha.chaudhry@c5i.ai

• Japanese manufacturing executives visit SK Chemicals’ Ulsan plant
• Strong interest in chemical recycling technology that delivers material properties comparable to petroleum-based materials, as well as expanding applications

ULSAN, South Korea, April 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A Japanese business delegation visited SK Chemicals to gain a firsthand look at the company’s recycled-plastics technologies and solutions.

SK Chemicals (CEO: Ahn Jae-hyun) announced on the 13th that the Kansai Association of Corporate Executives, a business organization from Japan’s Kansai region, visited SK Chemicals’ Ulsan plant in Nam-gu, Ulsan, for a briefing on the company’s circular recycling technologies and a tour of its production facilities.

The Kansai Association of Corporate Executives is a leading business organization in the Kansai region, comprising about 600 major companies, including Panasonic Holdings and Sony Group, and around 1,500 corporate executives. It is regarded as one of the three major economic organizations in Kansai, alongside the Kansai Economic Federation and the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The event, organized to exchange technologies and trends in the recycled-plastics sector, was attended by 37 executives and representatives from companies affiliated with the Association’s Circular Economy Committee, including hygiene and household products company Saraya, automotive parts company Toyota Mobility, and airline All Nippon Airways (ANA).

Attendees were briefed on the overall process, from the collection and sorting of waste plastics to depolymerization, repolymerization, material production, and application in finished goods, as well as on depolymerization itself, the core technology that converts waste plastics back into feedstock. Participants also toured the production site to review manufacturing processes for materials, including copolyesters, as well as quality-control procedures.

The Association’s visit is understood to have been driven by growing interest in the recyclability and sustainability of materials in Japan, particularly across the manufacturing sector, as companies seek alternatives to conventional materials. In Japan as well, active policy discussions are underway, much like in the EU and Korea, on mandating the use of recycled plastics in areas such as packaging and home appliances for companies that use plastics on a scale above a certain threshold.

Yusuke Saraya, President and CEO of Saraya Co., Ltd., who joined the visit, said, “At a time when most companies are still presenting recycled-plastics technologies as goals to be realized sometime in the future, I was impressed that SK Chemicals already has technologies and solutions ready for commercialization and immediate application. Depolymerization-based recycled materials that offer material properties, quality, and hygiene on par with petroleum-based plastics will be a compelling alternative to conventional materials in food and beverage packaging.”

SK Chemicals plans to step up marketing efforts in the growing Japanese market, aiming to increase both brand recognition and market share in the recycled-plastics segment.

Kim Hyun-seok, Head of the Recycling Business Division at SK Chemicals, said, “Japan is seeing rapid growth, with demand for CR PET last year increasing more than fivefold year on year. We will further strengthen our position in the Japanese market by providing solutions tailored to customers’ needs in applications such as food and beverage containers and automotive interior materials.”

Meanwhile, SK Chemicals has been gradually expanding its recycling infrastructure, spanning everything from global production hubs and technology demonstration to the conversion of waste plastics into feedstock. In 2023, the company established a chemical recycling production subsidiary in Shantou, Guangdong Province, China, where it is commercially producing r-BHET and SKYPET CR. In Korea, it established the Recycle Innovation Center (RIC), a depolymerization-based plastic recycling demonstration facility, creating a research and production system capable of recycling a wide range of waste plastics. Late last year, it also established a joint venture with Kelinle, a plastics recycling specialist in Shaanxi Province, China, to build the Feedstock Innovation Center (FIC), outlining plans to directly convert waste plastics into feedstock and to build procurement capabilities.