When AI Meets Sustainability

Posted on 10. June 2026 by Franc

AI and Sustainability: From financial buzzwords to the dual engines of our future.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized how we process data, while Sustainability is reshaping how we live to protect tomorrow. They aren’t competing forces—they are working together to build a smarter, greener world.

Read About:

My Journey Towards Sustainability Finance

Why Sustainability Matters?

Will AI End Social Media As We Know It?

The Rising Energy and Water Demand of AI

When it comes to its environmental footprint, AI’s demand for natural resources is staggering. Powering 24/7 data centers, training complex models, and constantly upgrading hardware requires an unprecedented surge in both electricity and cooling water. In fact, a June 3, 2026 report¹ from United Nations University revealed that by 2030, AI’s global water consumption will match the annual domestic needs of 1.3 billion people, while its power demand is on track to triple, matching the energy needs of 650 million people.

This environmental impact doesn’t mean a standstill for tech; rather, it underscores the need for smarter development management. We can effectively curb AI’s resource burden by focusing on three vital solutions: accelerating the shift to renewable-powered data centers, adopting data-efficient frugal AI models, and mandating closed-loop cooling systems that eliminate water waste entirely.

The Benefits of AI

AI empowers organizations to make smarter, timely decisions, optimize performance, and uncover new opportunities. But this technology doesn’t just serve business goals—it is essential for advancing Sustainability. AI fast-tracks environmental impact by automating data collection, boosting transparency, and designing highly effective ESG strategies. Furthermore, access to real-time intelligence shifts risk management from reactive to proactive, providing a critical edge in navigating financial, operational, and reputational threats.

Sustainability also builds a rigorous internal control framework. By prioritizing governance, it establishes clear rules of engagement and aligns corporate practices with evolving regulatory and industry standards.

When AI Meets Sustainability

Different stakeholders play vital roles in addressing sustainability challenges that affect companies.

Investors rely on sustainability data to assess and manage long-term risks.
Customers look for sustainable practices that reflect genuine value and responsibility.
Suppliers depend on it to prevent supply chain disruptions and ensure ethical operations.

Artificial Intelligence enhances this ecosystem by enabling stakeholders to track corporate activities and values more effectively. It discovers, organizes, and analyzes data for faster, smarter decision-making. AI also strengthens environmental monitoring through satellite-based insights and supports social oversight by analyzing labor practices and human rights conditions across supply chains.

AI and Sustainability Impacting Society

With the integration of AI and automation, industries can operate more efficiently and significantly reduce their carbon footprint.

Energy companies leverage predictive models to optimize power distribution and minimize waste.
Logistics firms use route optimization to cut fuel consumption, lower delivery costs, and shorten transit times.
Agriculture enterprises apply AI-powered irrigation systems to monitor rainfall patterns and soil nutrition, ensuring sustainable crop management.
Manufacturers employ machine learning to detect quality defects early, predict equipment maintenance needs, and reduce downtime and material waste.
Social service organizations analyze income, nutrition, and education data to design equitable policies and allocate resources effectively to underserved communities.

Ultimately, AI drives a future of lower environmental impact, greater inclusivity, and more resilient supply chains, empowering industries to align growth with sustainability.

AI Tools on Sustainability Goals

AI tools can be integrated in terms of ESG and Enterprise Risk Management.

The Risk in AI

While AI offers immense benefits, it also presents notable challenges. Algorithms can be trained on biased or incomplete data, leading to inaccurate insights and flawed decisions. Data privacy remains a critical concern — obtaining informed consent and ensuring secure data handling are essential. Moreover, data centers that power AI systems consume substantial electricity and water, raising environmental sustainability issues.

The Future is Green and Technological

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a necessity. With climate change posing an immediate threat, we need rapid, scalable solutions. AI is accelerating our path forward. By merging artificial intelligence with sustainable practices, we are building a safer, greener, and more technologically advanced world—a future where sustainability is a way of life.

Sources:

¹ https://unu.edu/inweh/news/environmental-cost-of-AIs-Enrgy-use-carbon-water-and-land-footprints

Note: Insights coming from my notes in taking the course “Utilizing AI to Achieve Sustainability and ESG Outcomes” by David Bennell in Linkedin Learning.

Categories: My Thoughts | Leave a comment

The Power of The Pause

Posted on 20. February 2026 by Franc

Hitting the pause button allows us to rest, regroup, and reassess our situation. In a fast-paced, rapidly changing world, we often find ourselves either stuck in the past or consumed by the future. In this process, we may forget to pause and appreciate where we are in our journey.

Taym Pers

As kids playing video games, we hit the pause button and it’s our time to rest, shake our hands before we take the next level. Or, even playing street games, we take the time freeze (taym pers) route to regroup. As adults we fail to realize that we still have that power to stop a bit and reassess. Remember a few seconds or minutes of discernment can save you a life time of regrets.

I usually operate like the Energizer Bunny—I just keep going and going and going. But as much as I love that momentum, I also know when to slow down and enjoy deep conversations with people of substance. I strive to be as impactful as possible, whether that means rallying people to a cause or simply being a game-changer. The reality, though, is that ‘saving the world’ is an endless job, and success is never a straight line. It’s full of ups and downs, twists and turns that make it both exciting and exhausting. No matter how relentless your drive is, there will always come a point where you don’t just want a break—you absolutely need to hit pause. After all, if life were indeed a journey, nobody would be rushing to the end.

Rediscovering the Power of The Pause

This post has been sitting in my drafts since 2021. I never finished it, but life threw its curveballs, giving me a much deeper appreciation for the power of the pause toward the end of 2025. The past few years have been amazing, and I’ve been ticking off one bucket list item after another—from speaking effectively to diverse crowds and being featured in publications, to mounting mass participation events and receiving awards. But all of those achievements came at a cost: time. I missed so many opportunities to travel, feel alive, and just enjoy life. While I was winning in life, I was slowly losing my spark—so I took a pause. You can’t light a candle of hope without that spark.

So, I finally took a break. That break was my trip to Chiang Mai last month, where I spent almost a week completely out of my comfort zone. Usually, when I’m on vacation, I rarely detach myself from everything going on back home, but this time, I did. I enjoyed the company, the hikes, the immersion in the local culture, and those three days with zero cell signal up in the mountains. The end result was not only finding my spark again but also discovering a renewed drive to wake up every day. I not only found purpose—I found peace. While I will still keep flying as high as I can, a part of me will always remain grounded in the essentials of life.

Press Pause

When life gets overwhelming, don’t hesitate to press the pause button.

It prevents impulsive decisions
It helps gather our thoughts
It allows us to reassess situations
It grounds us to the essentials
It provides time to appreciate the moment
It rest and recharges our soul
It squeezes our creative juices
It saves momentum for a better bounce back

Press Play

When you’re ready to bounce back, just press play again. Unfreeze time and get ready to take on the next level. It’s perfectly okay not to be okay, and it’s okay to take some time to heal—but always remember to rise back up, as many times as it takes. Don’t mind the doubters or the people who try to pull you down; it’s your journey, anyway. Pause, slow down, or speed up, but just keep going. Live life at your own pace

Categories: My Thoughts | Tags: Power of the Pause | Leave a comment

#TaleOfTheTrail Chiang Mai, Thailand

Posted on 30. January 2026 by Franc

Chasing summits with Trail Adventours will always hold a special thrill, but my five-day Chiang Mai getaway offered a different kind of adventure. With majestic waterfalls, energizing jungle trails, and an unforgettable dive into the local food and culture, Chiang Mai gave me the perfect reset I needed.

Tale of The Trail

Read about: Year of The Franc Bente

Tired, but grateful—that’s how 2025 wrapped up for me. Between work, back-to-back events, talks, and always being on the move, I felt completely drained. I needed a reset, so I booked a Northern Thailand hike with Trail Adventours. For my international hikes, it’s always been Trail Adventours: I know most of the lead guides, and the trips are full of smart, thoughtful people who make every adventure more meaningful. I booked everything last month and also upgraded my training to add elevation and trails via Mount Ulap, Mount Bidawan and of course, my home trail, Camp John Hay.

Adventure Chiang Mai

Day 1 was all about coffee, temple tours, overlooking views, a touch of nature, and, of course, the food. Our first stop was Banmong Doipui Market, where I picked up fresh macadamia nuts and almonds still in their shells, and savored slow-brewed coffee made from freshly ground beans. We then visited the iconic Wat Prathat Doi Suthep Temple, taking in its stunning architecture and sweeping views of Chiang Mai below. We also had our lunch within the area – a really sumptuous bowl of curry noodles. Finally, we went to the serene Wat Umong, a forest temple known for its tunnels, tranquil ponds, and peaceful atmosphere.

Chasing Trails and Waterfalls

Day 2 was where the action began with a quick visit to the market and Mok Wa Waterfall. It was a short hike to the falls and it was also really scenic. We had a quick lunch after before we started our hike at Huai Nam Dang National Park.

It was a short but scenic hike, starting with a descent to the river followed by a brief climb, all accompanied by an animated narration of the trail’s stories by our guide, including the local scented woods, crafts, and nature. After the climb came a steep descent along jungle trails, leading us to our hut in the Karen Village, where we were treated to a feast of local delicacies for dinner. The climate at the village was really cold, and I layered up in several jackets just to stay warm.

Chasing Sunset and Enjoying the Trails

Day 3 started with chasing sunrise atop a hill nearby. You can see the fields, the mountains, the sea of cloud while the sun slowly made its rise over the mountain range. After the sunrise, we went back to the hut for breakfast and then resumed the hike. This was the longer trail at about 14 kilometers. The good part of our hikes is that we didn’t do it extra early and the mood was always laid back.

We had about 9 kilometers to hike before lunch and another 5 kilometers afterward to reach our hut in Karen Village. The hike began on ascending trails, allowing us to maintain a steady pace along wide dirt tracks before we veered onto single-track paths about a kilometer in. The trails felt mystical and calming, giving me plenty of time for quiet reflection as I moved through the forest. I found myself looking back at life while also looking forward to what lies ahead. Along the way, I also enjoyed insightful conversations with fellow hikers—a long trail often brings new trail buddies to share the journey with.

The trails were mostly downhill and forested though the last few kilometers were ascending and open. We felt the heat as we were approaching our next village for lunch, which was by the side of the river. We had noodles for lunch, some snacks and a lot of stories within the group.

The last 5 kilometers were mostly descents as the jungle trails were just parallel to the river. It was relaxing seeing the forested trails. On the later part, we were descending the trail just beside the river as we reached our next accommodation at another Karen Village. At a lower altitude, the climate was still cold but was tolerable. We had dinner, which we helped in preparing, and also had food and stories over bonfire.

Rafting Along Mae Tang River

Day 4 had us rafting for about two hours, covering a little over 8 kilometers along the Mae Tang River. It was an exciting ride, with a mix of small and big rapids that left us soaked and thrilled. At first, I was nervous—I’m not very comfortable in river environments—but as the ride went on, I found myself truly enjoying the experience. I even got the chance to paddle our raft.

We made a short stop along the riverbank for a quick break, then another where some of our group bravely tried edible bamboo worms. After that, we finally reached our lunch stop by the river, where Pad Thai was waiting for us. For our final stop before heading home, we visited the gentle giants—the elephants.

Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s Highest Peak at 2,565 MASL

We spent our last day in Chiang Mai at Doi Inthanon, starting with a visit to the highest peak marker at 2,565 meters above sea level. It was freezing at the top, and I was seriously underdressed—turns out my efficiency the night before, when I packed all my jackets, backfired. Anyway, I survived with just my arm warmers. Next, we headed to the King and Queen’s Pagodas, which had a beautiful vantage point, and both Pagodas were really impressive.

After visiting the pagodas, we had lunch, stopped by a local market, and finally headed to Wachirathan Waterfall. Wachirathan was even more impressive than Mok Wa Waterfall, with a higher drop and a wider area. After that, we made our way back to the hotel to freshen up before catching our flight later that night.

Chiang Mai was impressive with the laid back lifestyle, unlimited adventure and great food. It was a 5-day well spent.

Categories: My Travels | Tags: Chiang Mai, Thailand, Trail Adventours | 1 Comment

Year of the Franc Bente

Posted on 17. December 2025 by Franc

“Tired, but Grateful. That’s my 2025 in a nutshell.”

I’ve been writing these yearly recaps for 20 years now. At the moment, both my body and mind are in recovery mode after everything this year threw my way—which says a lot about how eventful 2025 has been. With that, let’s look back at the highlights of the year.

1) CFO Finance Leaders Summit (February 2025)

Speaking about Sustainability at Fortinus Events CFO Finance Leaders Summit

Sustainability was among my favorite topics. I am glad to simplify Sustainability and ESG to a group of CFOs and Finance Heads on a Solo speaking role at the event at Fortinus Events CFO Finance Leaders Summit.

2) Birthday (March 2025)

While I don’t have grand celebrations lately, I’m happy to spend my Birthday at my home town in Baguio with a little bit of tour and over a simple barbeque and street foods type of party.

3) Certificate of Sustainability for Finance (March to April 2025)

Getting my Certificate of Sustainability Finance from PICPA and ACCA

Over 5 weekends and a total of 40 hours and 1 certification exam, I got my Certificate of Sustainability for Finance (CertSF). After finishing the course, it felt like seeing things with a different lens with sustainability as a factor in decision making.

4) RT & Co Run (April 2025)

It’s always a dream to organize an event in Ayala and RT & Co run was that event. Despite a short window of preparation, we were able to pull it off complete with celebrity guests. If I had a gift to my former auditor self, it is through initiating a healthy lifestyle to a new breed of auditors.

5) Singapore AGM and Cambodia Trip (April – May 2025)

SIngapore AGM and quick trip to Cambodia

If my work life is a series, AGM is where I end and begin a season. It’s always a challenge to face shareholders and present the Annual Report. This year, also spent a few days in Cambodia for work.

6) ACPAFSI (May 2025)

After finishing my course on Sustainability Finance, I joined ACPAFSI. While the initial plan was just to be a member, I would end up to be an officer after a few months and was able to contribute in the events of the Group.

7) Personal Finance Talk with Hyvesports (June 2025)

Discussed Personal Finance with Hyvesports Team

This was one of my simplest yet most impactful talk. I always design my personal finance sessions around creating lifestyle shifts that lead to real savings. What made this one special was how it opened the door for honest conversations—people, myself included, shared struggles we don’t usually talk about.

8) Corporate Treasurer Sustainability talk (June 2025)

Panel for the Sustainability Talk for Corporate Treasurer

This has to be one talk I’m really proud of as I shared the panel with Ayala and BPI heads and one happens to be my Ateneo Grad School Professor. I like how they formatted the talks on treasury on key topics like uncertainty, forex, technology and sustainability. It was the last talk and it also got featured in the Corporate Treasurer newsletter.

9) Dan’s Fast Forward Outdoors (July 2025)

Trail Talk, Trail Run, Tree Planting and a Race.

Eight hundred participants, 300 trees planted, and thousands of kilometers run and hiked over two days in Batangas. It’s always an impactful weekend when you bring together a trail talk, trail runs, tree planting, a trail race, and plenty of trail challenges. Making it even more meaningful was having our employees join in on the experience.

10) Digital CFO Sustainability Talk (July 2025)

I joined the panel for a sustainability talk, and it was a great experience. It’s always refreshing to exchange ideas with fellow finance leaders, and I truly enjoyed this one—we could have talked for hours and still not run out of topics.

11) Sustainability Talk at Medtecs (September 2025)

Initiated a sustainability talk at Medtecs, which also kicked start each department setting their own sustainability plan and some of this plans has already been converted into actions.

12) National Teachers College (September 2025)

I really like talking to students because they have a lot to learn and really open to learning. The topic was technology in finance and how it is impacting the working capital for students of National Teachers College. I also enjoyed the interactive Q&A session.

13) Stryde Run Media Launch (September 2025)

Discussing Stryde Run to Media, Running Group and Sponsors

Stryde Run has always been my dream venue for an event—the terrain, the views, and the overall experience are exactly what I had envisioned. It was fulfilling to finally share that vision with running groups, the media, and our sponsors, and even more so to see the OG runners truly appreciate it.

14) NU MOA Talk (September 2025)

I really enjoyed this topic and a bit more different from my usual talks. The talk was moving and it had a really interactive with a lot of Q&A. It was like giving my younger self an advice on leadership. It just feels so empowering influencing a younger audience.

15) 2 Day Sustainability Summit

ACPAFSI / PICPA Joint Sustainability Summit

I took on the role of Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee for ACPAFSI, contributing to fundraising efforts and attracting participants to the summit. The event itself was well-structured, covering regulatory updates, upcoming standards, best practices, and the transformation journeys of auditing firms.

16) Philstar Feature on Stryde Run (October 2025)

I’ve been featured in several magazines and news outlets, but I really appreciated this one. It didn’t just highlight Stryde Run—it also explored my advocacies in running, nature, and sustainability, and how these passions connect to my work, my life, and even risk management. Years from now, I’m going to read this article again and still appreciate the advocacy.

17) SGV Run (October 2025)

I played a behind-the-scenes role at SGV, assisting with route preparation and coordinating with sponsors. Beyond the experience itself, I was especially glad to be part of this event as an SGV alum.

18) Cambodia (November 2025)

I spent a week in Cambodia on a joint trip with our auditors from Singapore, the Philippines, and Taiwan. It was an exhausting week, but I’m glad we were able to prepare thoroughly for the upcoming year-end audit.

19) Stryde Run (November 2025)

If there’s one event that consumed most of my time this year, it was Stryde Run. It was a bittersweet journey—full of obstacles and even a rescheduling due to the typhoon. Yet, seeing the smiles on participants’ faces and hearing their feedback about how epic the race was made every challenge worthwhile.

20) ACPAFSI GRI Training / Christmas Party

Wearing my Chairman of Ways and Means hat for ACPAFSI, I helped raise funds for the event. I really enjoyed the GRI talk on considering Impact Materiality alongside Financial Materiality, and we shaped a new vision for a future where sustainability is a way of life. I also facilitated the party games, making sure everyone had fun. By the end of the day, my role shifted from Committee Chairman to Director.

Toward 2026

On another note, I continued my daily #ProjectFranc365 into its third year, heading into the fourth in 2026. While 2025 was a heavy year, I realized the importance of carving out time for myself and personal activities—starting with an international hike in Northern Thailand in January 2026. I know 2026 will be exciting and full of events, but for now, I’m choosing to live it moment by moment.

Categories: My Thoughts | Tags: Year of the Franc | 1 Comment

Incoming: 7-Eleven Run 2026

Posted on 16. December 2025 by Franc

An Epic Year Starts with 7-Eleven Run 2026

As we welcome a new year, 7-Eleven is committed to promoting wellness and healthier living in every community we serve. One way it’s consistently done so is through the 7-Eleven Run Series. Approaching its 14th installment, the annual event is set to make a comeback on February 1, 2026 across the streets of Manila, Cebu, and Davao.

Registration for the annual running event is now in full swing, so secure a slot now because entries will only be accepted until January 11, 2026. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of an encouraging community that prioritizes health and wellness, and start those new year’s resolutions on the right foot.

Runners can choose from eleven (11) distance categories across all three venues: 3K, 3K Buddy, 5K, 5K Buddy, 7K, 10K, 10K Buddy, 16K, 21K, 32K, and 42k. Additionally, the 711-meter category has been ungraded to a Buddy for kids 7 to 11 years old and adults. With so many options to choose from, 7-Eleven is here to make sure that everyone can join the fun, whether they’re first-timers, casual runners, pro marathoners, or young ones ready to conquer their first track.

To further motivate Filipinos to join and get in shape, medals and cash for all the Top 3 category winners from 3K and above. Meanwhile, much like the previous 7-Eleven Runs, glory and the chance to represent the country in an international race await the top three overall Filipino winners of the male and female 21K, 32K, and 42K categories. But that’s not all, because with 7-Eleven, everyone’s a winner as participants can also expect to come home with loads of freebies from over 30 sampling booths aside from the finisher shirt & medal.

Runners can register at www.run711.com with fees starting at Php250. Alternatively, they can join by collecting e-stamps for a minimum purchase of Php200 worth of participating items from any 7-Eleven branch nationwide. Booster items are also available in stores so customers can automatically earn an extra e-stamp per item.

More details for the upcoming event will be posted on 7-Eleven Run Series oﬃcial Facebook page and website at www.run711.com.Take your fitness goals to the finish line and see you at the starting line!

Like us on 7-Eleven Philippines Facebook and 7-Eleven Run Series Facebook, follow @711ph on Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter and TikTok for more information.

Categories: My Thoughts | Tags: 2026, 7-Eleven, Run | Leave a comment

Puregold’s first-ever Hakot Relay sets the new standard in fun runs

Posted on 26. November 2025 by Franc

Runners of all ages burst through the starting line as the inaugural Puregold Hakot Relay Run kicks off at the Burnham Green Park.

Puregold Hakot Run

Thousands of energetic attendees gather at the park, ready to take on the three-kilometer Puregold Hakot Relay Run 2025.

The first-ever Puregold Hakot Relay Run left over 8,000 participants marvelling at grocery hauls big enough to fill their pantries, setting a new standard of generosity in local fun runs.

A participant powers through with his Puregold grocery haul in hand and a big smile on his face, clearly enjoying the Hakot Relay experience.

Held on November 22 at the Burnham Green Park in Luneta, Manila, supermarket giant Puregold’s event brought sports and entertainment to both competitive and recreational runners. Teams of three participants raced to fill their hakot sling bags with premium groceries at designated stations, creating a major spectacle for runners, their families, and other park goers.

Relay teammates make their way through the course as they race to complete the Puregold Hakot Relay route.

Still flush with excitement, the runners shared their delight on social media, with a netizen (@zannysan) describing the event as “a grocery haul with a fun run” instead of the other way around. Many likewise posted photos of their bulky loot bags, showcasing the abundance of groceries they took home. One participant (@EndozoAntonette), in fact, humorously remarked, “Mas napagod po ako magbuhat ng grocery kesa tumakbo,” highlighting just how packed their bags were.

Groups of runners cheer each other on in the lively atmosphere of the Puregold Hakot Relay, sharing the experience with their *barkadas*, running buddies, and families.

The Puregold Hakot Relay Run 2025 was more than just a relay activity; it was a first-of-its-kind initiative that combined fitness, teamwork, and hakot challenges. The thousands of participants included seasoned runners and amateurs, all running the course and cheering one another on. By the end of the day, runners crossed the finish line with wide smiles, full bags, precious merchandise, and the thrill of what many called a truly panaloevent.

Runners happily make their way back from the *hakot* segment, carrying grocery sling bags packed with generous Puregold hauls.

Puregold Price Club Inc. President Vincent Co, who witnessed the excitement first-hand and ran alongside participants, said, “Our goal was for every runner to reach the finish line feeling like a true winner with a full haul. Hearing the cheers and seeing the energy and spirit of unity around the course showed the heart of what Puregold wants to give to every Filipino.”

Race-goers queue at the loot areas around Burnham Green Park to collect premium Puregold goodies and other event freebies, showcasing Puregold’s unmatched effort to enhance the fun run experience.

Vincent also emphasized how meaningful the atmosphere felt to him, saying, “Seeing everyone—from families to running groups—enjoy a day built around sport and togetherness made the work behind this worth it. It created the kind of panalo experience people will always remember.”

Eager participants enthusiastically fill their loaded Puregold bags with hefty stacks of groceries at loot stations, revealing the abundant rewards that made the Puregold Hakot Relay Run 2025 truly unforgettable.

For a registration fee of only Php 500 per team of three, plus a Php 2,500 grocery purchase at select Puregold branches, prospective attendees received a complete race kit that included a premium singlet, race bib, a grocery sling bag for the hakot portion, and a high-quality finisher medal. They also received additional bags, freebies, and vouchers from Puregold and partner brands, making the experience even more rewarding.

A lively crowd gathers at the bustling Loot Bag station as participants claim their overflowing rewards from the prize-filled Puregold Hakot Relay Run 2025.

Entertainment ensued with a vibrant Sunset Concert featuring KAIA, G22, Press Hit Play, and PBB Collab winners Brent Manalo and Mika Salamanca. The combination of a high-energy relay, Puregold goodies, and live P-pop performances made the event a grand all-day treat for every participant.

Triumphant runners from the first-ever Puregold Hakot Relay Run flash wide smiles as they enjoy the massive haul of groceries they collected, their shining finishers’ medals hanging proudly around their necks.

With teamwork, friendly competition, and Puregold’s signature panalo spirit at its core, the inaugural Puregold Hakot Relay proved that a fun run can be both athletic and rewarding—setting a new benchmark for community races in the country.

Follow Puregold

Stay in the loop. Subscribe to the Puregold Channel on YouTube, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, and follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and Twitter and @puregoldph on TikTok.

Categories: My Thoughts | Tags: hakot run, Puregold | Leave a comment

Will AI End Social Media As We Know It?

Posted on 7. November 2025 by Franc

The Golden Age of Connection

Social media started simply with a goal of connecting family and friends. The initial applications, like Friendster, MySpace, Multiply, and eventually Facebook, thrived on genuine human connection. People around the world felt more connected than ever, giving testimonials, playing games, and sending messages across vast distances. This new ecosystem rapidly reduced dependency on traditional mail, separate messaging applications, and even email.

From Connection to Commercialization

Social media eventually evolved far beyond its original purpose. What began as a platform to connect has transformed into our primary source of information—for news, entertainment, sports, commerce, and even political influence. In many ways, it has surpassed traditional media in both reach and impact.

However, the rise of complex algorithms reshaped how we consume this information. These algorithms determine what we see and read, influencing not just our interests but also our beliefs and behaviors. With the growing commercialization of these platforms, content is increasingly driven by advertising, propaganda, and misinformation. Genuine posts from friends and family appear less frequently. In this system, engagement is prioritized over authenticity, and the timeliness of information often gets lost amid the algorithmic noise.

Social media has, for many, become a tool to divide instead of connect. It’s no longer just a platform; it’s a marketplace, newsroom, dating site, and opinion forum rolled into one. While it offers many advantages, our lives have been shaped around it. We spend the day glued to our feeds, and we live, breathe, and operate based on social media.

Enter AI: The Next Technological Wave

The next major shift after social media is Artificial Intelligence—emerging in various forms such as Generative AI, Agentic AI, and other innovations still on the horizon. AI has been quietly integrating into our daily lives for years, but it is now taking on a much larger role at both work and home.

What makes today’s AI different is its broad focus. It’s no longer limited to professional tasks like generating quick analyses, assisting in communication, or preparing presentations. AI now extends into our personal routines—helping us create images, plan personalized workouts, access information instantly, and explore creative pursuits. It has made many parts of our professional and personal lives simpler and more efficient.

The New Information War: AI vs. The Algorithm

A clear parallel is emerging between social media’s evolution and the current trajectory of AI. This creates a direct threat to social media’s dominance as a main source of information. If people shift their dependency for information from social media to AI, it will inherently weaken the social platforms and force them to evolve.

We are already seeing this evolution begin. Social media sites are racing to integrate their own AI, such as Meta AI for Facebook and Grok for X (formerly Twitter), shifting the battleground into the AI sphere. AI is slowly transitioning to do our tasks faster. For example, checking the weather might currently involve scrolling a social media feed or visiting a website, but AI can pull that information in seconds and assist with related decisions.

The Double-Edged Sword: Progress and Peril

This new technology presents familiar risks. AI is not only a threat to social media; it is also a threat to people’s livelihoods. While AI brings efficiency, many regular tasks are being transferred to automation. We are already seeing significant layoffs by top-tier companies, citing efficiencies from technology. This is a difficult part of progress, and it creates a constant need to upskill.

Furthermore, like social media, AI can also be weaponized. There is a significant risk that misinformation can be fed into AI systems to spread propaganda on an unprecedented scale. The power of AI is the information it holds, so its greatest drawbacks are data quality, data source, and data security. AI still lacks robust safeguards for protecting information or screening the quality of its data. It is not, at the moment, 100% accurate.

The Next Inevitable Evolution

If you look at the roadmap of social media and the eventual influence it has on society, AI is clearly on the same track, but its potential is far greater. Social media’s revolution was one of communication and consumption of information. It changed how we connect with each other and how we consume information. AI’s revolution is one of cognition, creation, and action. It’s not just changing how we find content; it’s changing how we think, produce, and operate in our daily lives.

This is why AI is on track to be even bigger. Social media became a platform we visit, but AI is becoming the foundational infrastructure that runs underneath everything. It’s not just an app it is now our new operating system. As it becomes a fundamental partner in thought and action, the societal shifts it will trigger—in labor, education, and even human relationships—are likely to be far more profound and permanent than anything we witnessed during the rise of the social web.

The New Battlefront

So, will AI end social media as we know it? The answer is almost certainly yes.

The era of passively scrolling through a noisy, commercialized, and often divisive public square is already showing its age. AI is poised to replace it with a proactive, personalized, and conversational interface. Why scroll for information when a dedicated AI can retrieve it, synthesize it, and deliver it to you instantly?

This doesn’t mean social platforms will vanish overnight. Instead, they are forced to innovate to be relevant. Their survival likely depends on their ability to adopt to be AI-driven. Just as social media displaced the static websites and portals of the early internet, AI is now set to become the new primary lens through which we interact with the digital world—and with each other.

Categories: My Thoughts | Tags: Ai, Social Media | 3 Comments

Incoming: Chowking Chow Fun Run

Posted on 17. September 2025 by Franc

Chow King brings Chow Fun in the Run as they celebrate their 40th year Anniversary on October 11, 2025 at the SM Mall of Asia Complex.

Chow King

Chowking brings a lot of childhood memory growing up in a family that loves Chinese food. It’s been our go-to Chinese fast food growing up with their lauriat meals (sweet and sour pork remains my favorite to this day), siopao, buchi, chow fun and of course, desserts like black gulaman and halo halo.

40 years in the heart and tummies of the Filipinos and their first ever fun run. Chowking celebrates their 40th year with Chow Fun Run that’s gonna bring the family friendly fun, they’ve been known for decades, in a race environment on October 11, 2025 at SM Mall of Asia Grounds. Participants can choose from 1K Kiddie Run, 3K, 5K, 10K, and Virtual Run categories. After the race, everyone can enjoy their Chowking favorites, exclusive promos, and freebies at the Chow Fun Land.

Race Details

Date: October 11, 2025
Venue: SM Mall of Asia Grounds
Registration via Hyvesports
Fees and Inclusions:
- 10K P1,550 +50 Web Admin Fee) – Event Singlet, Bib with Timing, Drawstring Bag, Finisher Medal
- 5K P1,300 +50 Web Admin Fee) – Event Singlet, Bib with Timing, Drawstring Bag, Finisher Medal
- 3K P1,100 +50 Web Admin Fee) – Event Singlet, Bib with Timing, Drawstring Bag, Finisher Medal
- 1K Adult P1,000 +50 Web Admin Fee) – Event Singlet, Bib with Timing, Drawstring Bag, Finisher Medal
- 1K Kiddie P1,1,249 +50 Web Admin Fee) – Event Singlet, Bib with Timing, Drawstring Bag, Kiddie’s Finisher Shirt and Medal
Race Update: Chow Fun Event page

Categories: My Thoughts | Tags: Chow Fun Run, Chowking | Leave a comment

Why Sustainability Matters?

Posted on 13. August 2025 by Franc

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword or a trendy PR move. It’s our collective path to saving the planet—and the only way forward is to walk it together.

Read about: My Journey Towards Sustainability Finance

Global Warming

We complain about the heat, calamities and flooding. Well, that’s an after impact of climate change and the continues rise of temperates. Let’s start with the impact of greenhouse gas (carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and water vapor). We’re not here to eliminate greenhouse gas because it’s what traps the heat from the sun to keep Planet Earth from being inhabitable and not too cold to survive. The problem was during industrialization, we’ve trap more heat than need and that we’ve increased average global temperature by 1.2 degrees celsius with already seen effects on rising water levels, heatwaves and extreme weather.

Climate Change

The carbon emissions, deforestation and the burning of oil and gas has created global warming. This has also led to rising sea levels causing coastal flooding, threats to biodiversity and increasing health risk. This was the cause of industrialization and this is also a point we stop and think what we can do for the environment. Climate change is a present problem and we need to manage it. This was the same reason that The Paris Agreement came into effect.

The Paris Agreement

The world gathered in 2015 for the Paris Agreement with the main goal of reducing the impact of climate change. The prevailing goal was to limit warming to 2 degrees celsius from pre-industrial level, preferably 1.5 degrees celsius. That’s just 0.3 degrees celsius from current level. The goal was to have net-zero emission in 2050 and have funding commitments from developed countries to finance sustainability projects. The failure to meet this goal could result to more extreme weather conditions, rise in sea levels and biodiversity collapse. The increase in temperature can increase the likelihood of wildfires, flooding, drought and typhoons and could eventually lead to economic losses. With a future to look at the United Nations have set up the 17 Sustainable Development Goals too be met by 2030.

Sustainable Development Goals by 2030

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, are:

No Poverty – End poverty in all its forms everywhere.
Zero Hunger – End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture.
Good Health and Well-being – Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
Quality Education – Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
Gender Equality – Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
Clean Water and Sanitation – Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
Affordable and Clean Energy – Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.
Decent Work and Economic Growth – Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation.
Reduced Inequalities – Reduce inequality within and among countries.
Sustainable Cities and Communities – Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.
Responsible Consumption and Production – Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.
Climate Action – Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
Life Below Water – Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.
Life on Land – Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.
Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.
Partnerships for the Goals – Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.

The 17 SDGs came about from the environmental impact and social imbalance in the planet with a goal to end poverty, protect the planet and enjoy peace and prosperity. We are exceeding some environmental ceilings like climate change, biodiversity and biogeochemical flow. We are also underwhelming in some social foundation like hunger, health and poverty. Companies commit to the different SDGs in their sustainability report so when everybody is chipping in on each goal, it becomes more achievable. It’s just not a job of one person, one company or one country, sustainability is a job for everyone.

Why It Matters?

Sustainability is by definition is the ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. By preserving our environment and planetary boundaries and upgrading our social foundations, we can sustain momentum of creating a tomorrow that’s rich, abundant and socially balanced. As Robert Swan once said, “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.”

Categories: My Thoughts | Tags: Sustainability | 2 Comments

Incoming: Run United 80th Year Run

Posted on 9. August 2025 by Franc

Run United was a big part of my running journey in the 2010s, and I’m thrilled it’s making a comeback—reminding us all why we first fell in love with running. As part of Unilab’s 80th-year celebration, it returns on September 28, 2025, with feel-good distances of 500m, 5K, and 10K.

Run United

I began running in the 2010s, and it completely transformed my life. Run United was the race that first made me believe I could conquer 10 kilometers in under an hour. Back then, weekends were packed with running events, but Run United stood out from the rest. It evolved with the times, inspiring runners to level up through its progressive trilogy races. As we grew as runners, Unilab continued to innovate—shaping the local running scene and even introducing a recovery run series to emphasize that rest and recovery are just as essential as the run itself.

Unilab’s Run United returns on September 28, 2025 as part of Unilab’s 80th year festivities. So here we go!!! The OG run back for its OG runners and being re-introduced to a new era of runners. It comes in feel-good distances of 500 meters, 5 kilometers and 10 kilometers at Greenfield City in Sta Rosa, Laguna. Register NOW!!! Limited Slots only.

Race Details

Event: Run United 80th Year Run
Date: September 28, 2025
Venue: Paseo, Greenfield City, Sta. Rosa, Laguna
Fees – Excluding online charges and race kit courier fee (optional)
- 500m kids race
  - Early, until August 15 – P500
  - Regular, August 16 Onwards – P700
- 5K
  - Early, until August 15 – P1,000
  - Regular, August 16 Onwards – P1,200
- 10K
  - Early, until August 15 – P1,200
  - Regular, August 16 Onwards – P1,400
Inclusions
- Race Bib and Run United 80th Singlet
- Run United 80th Tote Bag and Finisher’s Medal for all distance
Registration – Run United Registration Site

Categories: My Thoughts | Leave a comment