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Fescaro bucks industry norms to become Korea’s first full-stack auto cybersecurity provider

  • Startup eyes Kosdaq listing, digital platform rollout to fuel overseas growth

SUWON, South Korea, Aug. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — This is an article published in The Korea Herald:

Fescaro(https://www.fescaro.com/en/), a Korean startup specializing in auto security, has defied the traditions of the original equipment manufacturer-heavy industry and is now looking to expand its all-around anti-hacking capabilities on the global stage.

“A normal auto cybersecurity company is usually in a third-party position as it offers solutions defined and required by automakers and parts suppliers, which is regarded as a regular value chain,” said Hong Seok-min, CEO of Fescaro, in an interview at the startup’s office in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, Wednesday.

“But we worked with (auto) manufacturers from early phases to define (cybersecurity) requirements for the vehicle’s overall security architecture and parts companies, effectively acting as a Tier 0.5 cybersecurity partner, which was a rare case in our industry.”

Fescaro made a bold, all-in commitment from 2021 to 2023, dedicating all its capabilities and resources to collaborate with KG Mobility, formerly known as SsangYong Motor, in addressing European automotive cybersecurity regulations.

“We had all of core technologies but that did not automatically lead to successful commercialization because they needed to be applied to mass produced vehicles so in simple terms, (automakers) do not use a technology unless their competitors use them,” said Hong, referring to the risk of implementing a new technology onto a vehicle that contains almost 100 electronics continuously interacting and and the crucial need for reliability.

“We needed to apply our technologies to actual cars, advance their quality and build up our references. Because I came from the automotive industry, I knew how important it is to secure trust,” Hong explained his reasoning behind the decision to work with the ailing automaker.

“Working with SsangYong, we were able to expand our network through their partners and prove our security solutions’ validity.”

“In doing so, more projects came our way and we ended up working with most of the auto parts makers that supply products to not only SsangYong but also Hyundai Motor and overseas automakers. I can say proudly that there might be companies that never worked with us, but there are no companies that did business with us only once. This is because we always define the ‘why’ and ‘what,’ and deliver the most practical ‘how’ –tailored to our clients’ needs.”

In 2023, Fescaro became the first Korean company to support OEMs and Tier 1 parts makers in receiving the European Union’s four cybersecurity regulation certificates: Cybersecurity Management System, Software Update Management Systems, Vehicle Type Approval and ISO/SAE 21434.

According to the CEO, Fescaro has completed mass production tests of its auto cybersecurity technologies for about 155 controllers and 60 types of semiconductors, achieving stability and an economy of scale as a software solution provider.

“In addition to automotive cybersecurity regulations (UN R155 and R156), Europe drafted a law called the Cyber Resilience Act that applies to every sold product installed with software, so we have been encountering opportunities throughout the broader mobility industry and can score orders in tractors and construction equipment,” said Hong.

Fescaro, which was established in 2016, has raised nearly 30 billion won ($22 million) in investment funding. The startup filed for a preliminary review for going public on the Korea Exchange’s tech-heavy Kosdaq in June. The startup is expected to be listed on Kosdaq either in late October or early November.

Fescaro was able to log operating profits for the fourth consecutive year in 2024, as its annual sales grew to 14.3 billion won in 2024 from 1.9 billion in 2021. The CEO pointed to the excellent competence of each employee as the reason behind the unusual feat for a startup.

“My colleagues used to always tell me that they couldn’t do something or that something was impossible to do,” said Hong.

“I would tell them that what we do is impossible. But because we do the impossible, our clients give us work and pay us. … After saying that for a few years, nobody tells me that they can’t do something. The core values of our organization have changed. On top of that, I ask them what I need to do to help them solve the problem. Accepting the impossible as a given, and approaching it with a creative and practical mindset, has become our true competitive edge.”

As for the plans to go global, the CEO said Fescaro wanted to become a total platform provider instead of a regular vendor. The company has been working on the digital transformation of human-centered consultations required to customize cybersecurity solutions for regional clients in different countries through an online platform.

To this end, the startup completed the development of CSMS Portal earlier this month. CSMS Portal offers end-to-end automated cybersecurity control, including process abstraction, application lifecycle management and a virtual security operation center through a single platform. This enables efficient and stable cybersecurity management throughout the entire lifecycle of a vehicle by taking care of automobile development, mass production, maintenance and repairs.

“We are pursuing practical breakthroughs. …One of the reasons we are going public is to raise funding, but that’s not that big of a problem,” said Hong.

“When we go global, overseas clients do not know us very well. If we are listed on the Korea Exchange’s bourse, we can eliminate distrust. I keep saying this, but we have skills. So if we can remove the barrier of ‘Never heard of this company,’ we can get things done because we have the ability.”

Hunan TV Show Singer 2025 Draws Performers from Multiple Countries

CHANGSHA, China, Aug. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hunan TV’s Mango TV program Singer 2025 is redefining global cultural exchange, using music as a bridge across borders. The show has received back-to-back endorsements from UNESCO and has been highlighted in 15 social media posts by official organizations—including agencies under China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the embassies of Brazil and Malaysia in China, and Tourism Malaysia.

As of now, Singer 2025 has achieved more than 85 billion digital impressions. This year, UNESCO also featured Shan Yichun’s adaptation of the song ‘Li Bai’ in its World Oceans Day campaign, calling for global attention to marine conservation. The show’s growing international attention highlights its extraordinary cultural influence, with diverse music, vibrant stagecraft, and heartfelt performances resonating with audiences worldwide.

One of the program’s defining strengths lies in its ability to inspire international artists to engage with Chinese culture on a deep level. American singer Mickey Guyton seamlessly wove Chinese lyrics into her performance, expressing her affection for the country. Fellow American Grace Kinstler delivered two moving performances entirely in Chinese, reflecting both the emotional appeal of Mandarin pop and her sincere appreciation for the culture. And Japanese singer BENI was particularly touched by the heartfelt enthusiasm of Chinese audiences.

Offstage, other international performers—including American singers Charlie Puth and Jordan Smith, and Canadian singer Michael Bublé—immersed themselves in traditional Chinese culture. From practicing calligraphy and appreciating the ink paintings of master artist Qi Baishi to experiencing Dragon Boat Festival traditions, traditional Chinese medicine, historic academies’ vibes and regional cuisine, they gained firsthand insight into the richness of China’s cultural heritage.

Singer 2025 continues to connect the world through music, offering a stage for diverse voices to be heard and heartfelt stories to be shared. The show looks forward to welcoming more artists from around the globe to become part of a shared cultural dialogue.

 

Bybit’s Ben Zhou Invites Community to Rewrite Their Own Success in Mid-Year Keynote Livestream

DUBAI, UAE, Aug. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has announced an exclusive livestream keynote featuring co-founder and CEO Ben Zhou, set to define the next chapter of the crypto evolution with game-changing reveals about Bybit’s new moves.

Titled “Keynote with Ben: Reshaping what’s next, Bit by Bit,” the livestream will reflect on Bybit’s eventful first half of 2025, reinforce the exchange’s commitment to becoming a standard-bearer in safety and innovation, and offer a chance for Ben to answer some of the burning questions on everyone’s mind: how Bybit managed to not just survive but thrive through challenges, and how the power of the community could come together to reshape the digital asset class.

Livestream Details

With crypto at potentially its most crucial juncture, strategic vision will set industry leaders apart from followers. The keynote will cover history made and in-the-making by Bybit: highlighting several firsts in crypto achieved in 2025, and exciting upcoming revamps and launches. The reveals include high-stakes initiatives that encapsulate Bybit’s vision for a blockchain-enabled future that benefits all, where everyone will get to rewrite the rules of success and reshape the standards of the industry.

Agenda

  • From regulatory to product breakthroughs, Bybit’s 2025 milestones transcended borders and redefined the CeDeFi experience
  • Ecosystem growth across verticals and geographies, achieving major milestones with industry-first Spot innovations, crypto’s first and only wealth management solution of its kind, realigning synergy between Bybit Card and Bybit Pay, and the establishment of the EU headquarters
  • Connecting with Bybit offline: throughout the summer, Bybit will be on the road from Europe to Asia, celebrating the Bybit community around the world and honouring changemakers in crypto and blockchain at CCCC Lisbon and BGAwards @ UNDP
  • Tech meets purpose: Ben’s personal insights on the industry, what drives Bybit forward, and how blockchain technology could create real-world impact

Bybit’s Ben Zhou Invites Community to Rewrite Their Own Success in Mid-Year Keynote Livestream
Bybit’s Ben Zhou Invites Community to Rewrite Their Own Success in Mid-Year Keynote Livestream

Before and throughout the livestream, viewers can also engage with Bybit and share their questions to Ben to win from the 9,000 USDT prize pool. From now until the end of the event on August 6, 2025, a comprehensive rewards program offers five interactive ways for users and fans in anticipation of the livestream. 

Terms and conditions apply. Interested participants may visit Bybit for more information.

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 70 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com
For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

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Taiwan to host inaugural “Taiwan Weeks” in October to advance its role as Asia’s asset management center

TAIPEI, Aug. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) of Taiwan announced the launch of the inaugural “Taiwan Weeks,” a flagship initiative to be held from October 15 to 23, aimed at elevating Taiwan’s position as a premier asset management center in Asia.

The FSC and its partner organizations jointly launched “Taiwan Weeks” at an inaugural press conference.
The FSC and its partner organizations jointly launched “Taiwan Weeks” at an inaugural press conference.

Speaking at the launch press conference in Taipei, FSC Chairperson Dr. Jin-Lung Peng described the initiative as a significant milestone in Taiwan’s long-term strategy to attract international capital and deepen its integration into the global financial system.

“We warmly welcome global investors to explore the potential of Taiwan’s capital markets and join us in shaping the future of asset management. Taiwan Weeks is more than a promotional event—it serves as a platform for global dialogue, innovation exchange, and cross-border investment collaboration,” Peng said.

The event, meticulously prepared over six months, is led by the FSC with active participation from its Securities and Futures Bureau, Banking Bureau, and Insurance Bureau. The event is co-organized in partnership with four key stock exchange and financial infrastructure institutions—the Taiwan Stock Exchange, Taipei Exchange, Taiwan Futures Exchange, and Taiwan Depository & Clearing Corporation.

A Two-Week Showcase of Policy and Innovation

Over the course of two weeks, Taiwan Weeks will feature a series of activities highlighting key policy developments in asset management. Through interactive formats, the initiative seeks to deepen understanding of regulatory frameworks, promote innovation in financial products, advance financial inclusion, and support ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) sustainability. The event will also align with broader action plans to build a resilient and well-connected financial ecosystem.

The official website for Taiwan Weeks (taiwanweeks.com) is now live, offering global audiences access to event schedules, speaker line-ups, and insights related to Taiwan’s capital market development.

International Engagement and Knowledge Sharing

The opening ceremony on October 15 will feature keynote addresses from global asset management leaders and panel discussions with scholars and experts. Topics will explore the evolving dynamics of capital markets and strategies to foster inclusive and sustainable growth across Asia.

Subsequent sessions will delve into critical areas such as ESG frameworks, corporate governance best practices, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), startup ecosystem support, and capital mobilization for public infrastructure. Distinguished speakers — including senior policymakers, international financial institutions, and thought leaders — will share insights on market resilience, cross-border collaboration, and long-term capital formation.

The FSC envisions “Taiwan Weeks” as a strategic platform for international engagement, fostering connections across talent development, financial innovation, and policy collaboration. By uniting local and global stakeholders, the event aims to catalyze cross-border investment partnerships, strengthen industry-academia cooperation, and generate actionable policy proposals through meaningful dialogue and knowledge sharing.

Key events include:

Date

Event

Description

Oct. 15

Opening Ceremony

The event kicks off with an open forum
exploring Taiwan’s vision to become a
leading asset management center in Asia.

Oct. 15

Asia Asset
Management Center
Forum

Senior financial regulators and global
executives will engage in a high-level
discussion on Taiwan’s current positioning
and future roadmap as a hub for asset
management in Asia.

Oct. 15

Emerging Trends in
Investor Relations and
Engagement: ESG and
Sustainable Investing

This session will focus on the evolving role of
investor relations and shareholder
engagement in capital markets.
International institutions will discuss ESG
integration, and Taiwan Depository &
Clearing Corporation (TDCC) will present its
latest IR platform.

Oct. 16

Taipei Corporate
Governance Forum

Under the theme “Corporate Sustainability
Transformation and ESG Practices”, this
forum will feature prominent local and
international speakers sharing perspectives
on governance innovation and industry best
practices.

Oct. 16

Asia Capital Markets
Summit Forum

Representatives from leading exchanges
and global asset management firms will
address how Asian capital markets are
adapting to global trade frictions and
regulatory shifts, outlining strategic
responses and growth pathways.

Oct. 16

Internationalization of
Asset Management

This session will explore how banks and
financial institutions are innovating in
product design and asset allocation to
support evolving client demands and
international expansion.

Oct. 17–19

2025 ETF Investment
Expo

A three-day public expo designed to deepen
investor understanding of ETFs, featuring
seminars, interactive events, and guidance
on new products and responsible
investment approaches.

Oct. 21

Asia Innovation Cup:
TIB x GISA+
Fast-Tracking Startups
into the Capital
Market!

Combining competition, panel discussions,
and cross-sector dialogue, this event aims
to help startups and emerging businesses
access capital markets and better
understand policy and market expectations.

Oct. 21

Mobilizing Private
sector funds to invest
in Public infrastructure
– Public-Private
collaboration to build a
better Taiwan.

Government agencies and stakeholders will
discuss how to attract private capital into
national infrastructure and public
development projects, highlighting best
practices in policy design and PPP models.

 

MGI Tech Hands with Lincoln University to Revolutionize New Zealand Viticulture with Genomics

AUCKLAND, New Zealand, Aug. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MGI Tech Co., Ltd. (“MGI”), a company dedicated to developing core tools and technologies that drive innovation in life sciences, has joined efforts with Lincoln University in Canterbury to address sustainable challenges in viticulture through advanced sequencing technology. The initiative aims to utilize genomics to breed better varieties of grapevines and hops that are tolerant and resistant to pests and diseases, thus reducing fungicide use across New Zealand’s $2.1 billion wine export industry.   


How Genomics is Shaping New Zealand’s Finest Grapes and Hops

Viticulture Challenges in New Zealand: Disease, Chemicals and Sustainability Pressure

Viticulture is a significant economic source of revenue for New Zealand, ranking as the nation’s sixth-largest export earner.[1]

However, like many primary sectors, it faces intensifying pressure to improve sustainability and reduce environmental impact. The country’s vineyards are particularly vulnerable to fungal diseases, often requiring frequent and broad-spectrum spraying to maintain vine health and grape quality.

Each year, New Zealand farmers apply approximately 3,400 tonnes of pesticides. Alarmingly, under the US Environmental Protection Agency classification, 60% of fungicides and 72% of plant growth regulators used locally are considered potential carcinogens. This has placed the sector in the crosshairs of consumer and environmental scrutiny, particularly as climate change drives more volatile weather conditions that heighten disease risks.[2]

New Pathways from Genomics

To address these challenges, a team of New Zealand scientists has started a genomic study to reduce the wine sector’s reliance on chemical sprays. By using advanced sequencing technology, researchers can now rapidly scan thousands of grapevine samples to identify those with natural resistance to disease and environmental stress.

Associate Professor Christopher Winefield, from Lincoln University’s Department of Wine, Food & Molecular Biosciences, who first introduced genomics into his research to explore traits like fungal tolerance and soil health response, is now scaling the project significantly through MGI’s high-throughput sequencing platform.

This approach not only opens a pathway to breed more resilient grape varieties, it also enables real-time monitoring of vineyard conditions, laying the foundation for more targeted, sustainable and cost-effective vineyard management.

The genomics practices allow scientists to map the natural genetic diversity within thousands of grapevines, identifying those with inherent disease resistance. Early findings suggest that, with targeted intervention informed by this data, chemical spray use could be reduced by up to 80% in some vineyards.

“You’re never going to get to zero,” says Winefield , “but even removing a single late-season spray has multiple benefits – lower costs, less residue in the wine and reduced pressure on soil health and the environment.”

The MGI Sequencing: Achieving Genomics at Scale

Lincoln University researchers have installed the MGI DNBSEQ-G400 genome sequencer, a next-generation sequencing platform enabling unprecedented scale and speed in genomics with economic cost. Traditionally, testing a few hundred grapevine samples per year was considered standard. Now, the lab can process over 50,000 annually – a one-hundredfold increase in volume.

“The introduction of MGI sequencing tools has really helped democratise sequencing for small teams like myself,” says Winefield. “The cost of that sequencing is highly competitive. We’re now looking to process up to 50,000 samples a year – we simply couldn’t do that without MGI’s support”

The MGI DNBSEQ-G400 platform can also support real-time sequencing to detect pathogens like powdery mildew and mealybug. This enables precision agriculture approaches, where interventions are localised rather than applied uniformly.

“Instead of scheduled spraying, farmers can move to evidence-based treatment. It’s a shift from blanket coverage to pinpoint accuracy. That means fewer chemicals in the environment and better resistance management,” says Winefield.

The genomic data is also helping scientists identify vines that are more resilient under water stress or nutrient limitations – a key consideration as climate volatility increases.

Dr. Bicheng Yang, Director of MGI Australia, says the project showcases how modern genomics can drive sustainability.

“This is a powerful example of how cutting-edge technology supports the future of agriculture. By helping researchers uncover the genetic drivers of disease resistance, we’re enabling the industry to move away from chemical dependency and toward natural plant resilience.”

The ability to conduct these tests domestically also removes the logistical and financial barriers of sending samples overseas, saving critical time during the growing season.

A Commercial Vision: Democratising Genomic Testing

Beyond academia, the project has commercial ambitions. Winefield and his colleagues are forming a standalone venture to bring affordable genomic testing to the country’s broader agriculture sector. The startup will serve viticulture, horticulture, and dairy farms, giving producers access to real-time insights previously confined to high-cost labs.

“This is about getting world-class science into farmers’ hands,” Winefield says. “Our goal is to process a million samples annually at launch and grow to 10 million within five years.”

This data-driven model would enable even small-scale producers to detect early signs of disease, make proactive crop management decisions, and cut down on unnecessary chemical inputs.

Environmental and Economic Impact

The implications of the study extend well beyond New Zealand. With international viticulture facing similar challenges, the Canterbury research could become a blueprint for sustainable production globally. According to Winefield, New Zealand’s unique microclimates and robust science infrastructure make it an ideal testbed.

New Zealand may never feed the world by volume,” he says, “but we can lead through better science. Exporting our genomic insights, tools and resilient plant stock could transform productivity and environmental outcomes for global agriculture.”

Toward a National Infrastructure

Winefield envisions a future where genomic diagnostics become as routine in farming as soil testing or weather tracking.

“This isn’t just about grapevines. Whether it’s hops, kiwifruit, apples or livestock, we can use this data to reduce disease pressure, improve yields and make smarter input decisions.”

Climate change adds urgency. With warmer, wetter conditions driving earlier and more aggressive outbreaks of disease, traditional spraying schedules are proving less effective. The genomic model offers farmers the precision and agility to adapt to real-time environmental changes.

About MGI:

MGI Tech Co., Ltd. (or its subsidiaries, together referred to as MGI) is committed to building core tools and technologies that drive innovation in life science. Our focus lies in research & development, manufacturing, and sales of instruments, reagents, and related products in the field of life science and biotechnology. We provide real-time, multi-omics, and a full spectrum of digital equipment and systems for precision medicine, agriculture, healthcare, and various other industries.

Founded in 2016, MGI has grown into a leader in life science, serving customers across six continents and establishing research, manufacturing, training, and after-sales service facilities globally. MGI stands out as one of the few companies capable of independently developing and mass-producing clinical-grade gene sequencers with varying throughput capacities, ranging from Gb to Tb levels. With unparalleled expertise, cutting-edge products, and a commitment to global impact, MGI continues to shape the trajectory of life sciences into the future.

For more information, please visit https://en.mgi-tech.com/, LinkedIn, X and YouTube.

 

[1] New Zealand wine continues to defy market trends, growing for 16th consecutive year in the US. (n.d.). New Zealand Wine. https://www.nzwine.com/en/media/media-releases/us-market-trends/ 

[2] Primary Industry Trade at Risk Unless Assurance is Tightened – Our Land & Water – Toitū te Whenua, Toiora te Wai. (n.d.). Our Land & Water – Toitū Te Whenua, Toiora Te Wai. https://ourlandandwater.nz/news/primary-industry-trade-at-risk-unless-assurance-is-tightened/

Ayala Corporation named among Top 50 ASEAN companies, PH Top 5 for corporate governance

MANILA, Philippines, Aug. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ayala Corporation, one of the oldest conglomerates in ASEAN, has been recognized as one of the top 50 publicly listed companies in the ASEAN region and among the top five in the Philippines for excellence in corporate governance in the 2025 ASEAN Corporate Governance Conference and Awards.  

(L-R) Ayala Corporation Compliance Manager Melody B. Trinidad; Ayala Corporation Chief Legal Officer, Chief Compliance Officer, Corporate Secretary and Corporate Governance Group Head Franchette M. Acosta; Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Francis Edralin Lim; Ayala Corporation Assistant Corporate Secretary and Corporate Secretarial Services Head Carmela G. Austria; and Securities and Exchange Commission Commissioner McJill Bryant Fernandez at the 2025 ASEAN Corporate Governance Conference and Awards in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, July 24, 2025.
(L-R) Ayala Corporation Compliance Manager Melody B. Trinidad; Ayala Corporation Chief Legal Officer, Chief Compliance Officer, Corporate Secretary and Corporate Governance Group Head Franchette M. Acosta; Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Francis Edralin Lim; Ayala Corporation Assistant Corporate Secretary and Corporate Secretarial Services Head Carmela G. Austria; and Securities and Exchange Commission Commissioner McJill Bryant Fernandez at the 2025 ASEAN Corporate Governance Conference and Awards in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, July 24, 2025.

Ayala’s inclusion in the awards affirms its world-class corporate governance practices, placing it among the world’s best in business transparency and accountability, board effectiveness, sustainability, and stakeholder engagement.  

“At Ayala, we believe that excellence in corporate governance enables decision making processes and actions that are purposeful and consistent with our objective to build businesses that enable people to thrive. At the same time, a strong governance ethic is key to maintaining investor interest and confidence. We are truly honored to be granted this distinction, which inspires us to continue with our efforts to do business with integrity, transparency and accountability for the benefit of all our stakeholders,” said Ayala Corporation Chief Legal Officer, Compliance Officer, Corporate Secretary and Corporate Governance Group Head Franchette M. Acosta.

The ASEAN CGCA 2025, held on July 24 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, honored top publicly listed companies from the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. It followed an assessment of their corporate governance practices based on publicly available disclosures.   

Ayala business unit Globe Telecom Inc. was also named among the top 50 ASEAN companies and top 5 in the Philippines. Meanwhile, five other Ayala companies made it to the list of ASEAN Asset Class companies, namely ACEN Corporation, AREIT, Inc., Ayala Land, Inc., AyalaLand Logistics Holding Corp., and Bank of the Philippine Islands.

ASEAN Asset Class companies are those that reached the cutoff score of 97.5 points—or at least 75% of the maximum score of 130 under the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard. A total of 35 Philippine companies made the score this year.

In a statement, the ASEAN CGCA said the latest assessment showed sustained improvement in corporate governance practices in the region, particularly in the areas of board accountability, shareholder rights, disclosure practices and sustainability integration.

Learn more about Ayala Corporation on ayala.com.

About Ayala Corporation

For 191 years, Ayala Corporation has been building businesses that enable people to thrive.

Ayala, currently one of the largest conglomerates in the Philippines, has meaningful presence in real estate, banking, telecommunications, and renewable energy. It likewise has a growing presence in healthcare, mobility, and logistics as well as investments in industrial technologies, education, and other ventures. Ayala manages its corporate social responsibility initiatives through Ayala Foundation.

Visit our website at https://ayala.com and follow us on LinkedIn to learn more about the company. 

The St. Regis Macao’s Signature Restaurant – The Manor Unveils a New Chapter Embark on a Culinary Voyage to the Mediterranean

MACAO, Aug. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The St. Regis Macao is delighted to announce the reimagining of its signature dining venue, The Manor, with a vibrant new Mediterranean concept on August 1st.  This culinary transformation brings a diverse and refined new menu to Macao’s dynamic dining scene helmed by Executive Sous Chef, Michele Dell‘Aquila, seamlessly blending the St. Regis legacy of timeless elegance with the bright flavors and convivial culture of the Mediterranean coast.

Seafood Risotto
Seafood Risotto

The new concept celebrates the natural affinity between Mediterranean cuisine and Macao’s own multicultural gastronomic heritage. Both are shaped by centuries of cultural exchange and global influence, resulting in a shared culinary philosophy that honors tradition, embraces diversity, and celebrates honest ingredients.

At The Manor, this dialogue across cultures and continents is brought to life through a meticulously curated menu. Drawing inspiration from the culinary traditions of Spain, Italy, Greece, and the South of France, Chef Michele focuses on premium ingredients and authentic techniques to deliver a full-spectrum Mediterranean dining experience—from vibrant appetizers to hearty mains and elegant desserts.

Signature Dishes Include:

Greek Style Grilled Octopus: A delicate Mediterranean preparation featuring tender grilled octopus served with roasted potatoes, Pequinillo peppers, Kalamata olives, and oregano – a tribute to the balanced, sun-kissed flavors of Greece and Spain.

Piri-Piri Prawn: Inspired by the maritime spice routes of the Portuguese Age of Discovery, this dish blends prawns with garlic, herbs, lemon, and a bold piri-piri chili sauce.

Grilled Spring Chicken: Marinated with rosemary, the chicken is roasted to perfection and served with green salad and heirloom carrots – a harmony of herbaceous brightness and wood-fired depth.

Seafood Risotto: A luxurious saffron-and-tomato-based risotto enriched with prawns, squid, and mussels, offering a layered, savory Mediterranean flavor profile.

The culinary journey continues beyond the plate with a curated selection of Mediterranean-inspired cocktails, designed to evoke the romance and vitality of the region:

Violet Horizon: A visually striking cocktail blending butterfly pea flower, violet liqueur, and Bombay gin, dusted with edible gold for a sunset-glow finish.

Marseille Mistral: A bold, aromatic mix of seaweed-infused whisky, Amaro, citrus, chili, and lemongrass syrup – reminiscent of a stroll through a Provençal spice market.

Executive Sous Chef Michele Dell‘Aquila shared, “With the introduction of the new concept, we hope to bring the warmth, heritage, and human connection of the Mediterranean straight to every guest’s table here in Macao.”

Guests can choose from à la carte options or a specially curated tasting menu. Whether for business dining, romantic evenings, or celebratory gatherings, The Manor promises a sophisticated yet soulful experience where timeless ambiance, cultural richness, and culinary artistry converge to create unforgettable moments.

For more information about dining offers at The Manor, please visit www.themanormacao.com, or contact +853 2882 8898 or email diningreservations.macao@stregis.com.

Photos

Seabass Fillet
Seabass Fillet

 

Greek Style Grilled Octopus
Greek Style Grilled Octopus

About The St. Regis Macao

The St. Regis Macao is the most prestigious address on the Cotai Strip. The hotel offers 400 exquisitely styled and lavishly appointed guestrooms and features The Manor, where elevates Mediterranean dining in Macau with Executive Sous Chef Michele Dell‘ Aquila’s refined cuisine – artisanal seafood, grilled specialties, and crafted cocktails, as well as The St. Regis Bar, an inviting retreat showcasing the full St. Regis Bloody Mary World Collection, including The St. Regis Macao original recipe –Maria do Leste (Mary of the East). The Spa at The St. Regis Macao, on the 38th floor, is Macao’s highest spa, boasting sweeping views of the stunning Cotai Strip and offers a rare retreat, a sensorial escape honoring the art of decadence. For meetings and events, the regal, 628-square meter Astor Ballroom is perfect for gala celebrations, distinguished corporate events or momentous weddings. For more information, please visit: www.stregismacao.com or follow The St. Regis Macao on Facebook, Instagram and WeChat@stregismacao.

The “Guizhou Model” of Digital-Real Integration: Big Data Empowers Industrial Transformation and Upgrading

GUIYANG, China, Aug. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report by Huanqiu.com

Guizhou, a province situated in China’s southwestern hinterlands, is advancing its high-quality development based on digital economy. From 5G smart plants to agricultural digital technologies, and then to characteristic tourism services embedded with large models, digital economy is profoundly reshaping the local industry, agriculture and cultural tourism, and promoting the digital-real integration, thereby opening up a path for industrial transformation and upgrading.

Although located deep inland with no advantage of raw material costs, the made-in-Guizhou tyres are sold to over 140 countries and regions, with overseas revenue accounting for above 40%. Addressing the weakness of high energy consumption of the traditional manufacturing sector, Guizhou Tyre Co has resolutely pushed ahead green and intelligent transformation, and implemented more than 40 solutions of the fourth industrial revolution, e.g. AI-driven design, advanced data analysis and flexible automation, so as to improve production agility and productivity. These initiatives have uplifted labor productivity by 68%, and reduced product defects and inventory by 57% and 34% respectively. Thus, Guizhou Tyre Co earned a spot on the first batch of “lighthouse factories” for 2025 released by the World Economic Forum (WEF).

At present, Guizhou Tyre is accelerating the pace of transformation, and actively advancing the stage 2 construction of the Zhazuo phase 4 project. After being put into service this year, the rooftop PV power project will produce 35GWh green electricity annually, which will reduce carbon emissions by 22,800 tons and save electricity costs up to 10 million yuan. Meanwhile, 5G technology has been deeply integrated into manufacturing. In the digital workshop, 5G-based unmanned AGVs precisely deliver materials, robotic arms complete the fabrication of a tyre bead every 25 seconds, and fully automated vulcanizing machines save 15% of energy consumption. In this July, the 2# intelligent hot production line of the engineering radial tyres branch company was launched, symbolizing a milestone of the intelligent transformation.

The “Guizhou solutions” for smart agriculture have emerged when the local mountain agriculture is empowered by science and technology. In just a few minutes, the drones of Guizhou Tianditong Technology Company are able to complete the plant protection tasks which required several hours of manual labor in the past, uplifting its efficiency by over 20 times. As a breakthrough of traditional spraying methods, such technology has realized targeted seeding, fertilization and transportation of supplies, and broken the bottleneck of farming on sloping fields by the terrain-following flight algorithm.

The progression of smart agriculture depends on the industry-academia-research integration. Jointly established by Guizhou University, Guizhou Institute of Agricultural Mechanization, and Guizhou Aerospace Smart Agriculture Co., Ltd., the Guizhou key laboratory of mountain intelligent agricultural mechanization is the unique R&D platform dedicated for agricultural mechanization in hilly and mountainous areas in this province, addressing the dilemma of “no suitable machinery available”. At present, the “unmanned rice farm” in Jianhe County has achieved unattended operation for the whole process; the Rosa roxbunghi harvester records a picking rate of 94.42%, up tenfold compared to manual picking; the intelligent irrigation system has been rolled out in more than 500,000 mu of farmlands, saving water consumption by over 30%. Guizhou Aerospace Smart Agriculture’s innovative technologies and services have so far covered more than 20 provinces and autonomous regions across China, and the cumulative application area totals over 3 million mu. The company also actively explores the international market and exports the “Guizhou solutions”.

Digital technology has also reshaped the province’s culture and tourism service pattern and experience. The upgraded “One-Code Tour Guizhou” 3.0 version in this April, the provincial smart tourism portal platform, attaches great importance to user experience and service efficiency, and offers three innovative functions of “one entry for reservation of province-wide discounted admission tickets”, a new version of App and “Huang Xiao Xi“, an AI tourism model, heralding a new epoch of smart tourism in Guizhou.


Service inclusiveness and efficiency revolution are the core values of platform upgrading. The newly launched certification channel for concessionary tourists like teachers and students in April has cumulatively served 600,000+ people. The “Guizhou travel agency certification channel for concessionary tourists” was recently launched in July that authorized travel agencies can complete online certification, reservation and verification of group tourists, which are expected to save over 70% of labor and time costs.

Upholding the principles of “data aggregation, industry promotion, efficient management, targeted marketing and tailor-made service”, the platform has integrated tourism resources and empowered various scenic areas to develop their own business ecology and distribution systems, which contribute to the quantitative increment and efficiency improvement of the tourism industry, and precisely meet the needs of tourists for convenience, customization and immersive experiences.