Innovation Takes Center Stage as Globe’s PLAI:Offs Season 1 Concludes

Globe continues to push the boundaries of innovation, making AI accessible for everyone. Curious about how it all unfolded? Read on to discover how Globe is shaping the future of AI.

The much-anticipated finale of Globe’s inaugural AI Innovation Challenge, PLAI:Offs, took place on June 3, 2025 at The Globe Tower, marking yet another thrilling chapter in the company’s quest to democratize AI and foster a culture of innovation. With the event underscored by energy, collaboration, and a shared passion for transformation, Globe’s drive toward a smarter, more connected future shone brightly.

A Recap of the Final Round: Innovation in Action

The final pitch session was a showcase of ingenuity from the top five finalists, each presenting meaningful projects that tackled real business challenges through AI.

Globe’s leadership, including President and CEO Carl Cruz, Chief Human Resources Officer Ato Jiao, Chief Finance Officer Carlo Puno, and Vice President of B2B KD Dizon were present to lend their support, underscoring how much the company values this new wave of AI innovators.

Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz delivering his inspiring opening remarks and showing his support to all the PlAI:Offs Season 1 Finalists

Carl shared: “PLAI:Offs exemplifies and reinforces our core intent: to remain the disruptors in the industry and in the country. PLAI:Offs is a truly outstanding initiative. This is only the first season, and I’m already looking forward to the upcoming ones, to ensure we continue to maintain that innovation gap between us and the rest of the industry."

We’re probably the first company—certainly the first mobile network operator—to appoint a Chief AI Officer. That alone speaks volumes about our commitment to continuous innovation and our intent to uphold our leadership edge in the marketplace.

He added, "In fact, I’m taking it upon myself as a personal challenge to build my own understanding of AI. While I may be starting from the lower end in terms of knowledge and capability, I will be counting on all of you to support me. But mark my word: I will lead by example. I fully intend to build something—an AI from Carl Cruz—to contribute my share in ensuring we continue to innovate.”

Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer and Chief Information Security Officer Anton Bonifacio on stage to share how Globe is driving innovation and AI in the organization

Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer and Chief Information Security Officer Anton Bonifacio emphasized the importance of democratization:

There are a lot of companies that run these hackathons. But there's a big difference in how we're approaching it here in Globe. PLAI:Offs is not the only opportunity for people to be able to get their own built solutions into production. Democratization is really something we take seriously. The other 23 teams may not be here as finalists, but it doesn't mean that all of a sudden their projects are dead or just because you weren't able to join season one doesn't mean you can't develop anymore. That is not true. The tools are always available. The kitchen is for everybody.

In the spirit of Globe’s inclusive, people-centered approach, the finalists demonstrated not just technical prowess but also heart—proving that AI can be accessible and impactful across roles and functions. The environment was charged with excitement as each team revealed how their projects could change the way Globe operates today.

Celebrating the Top 3 Winners

Let’s shine a spotlight on those who made it to the top:

1st Place: BAPEvolution (NTG) – Project AIRA

Turning field operations into an experience of efficiency, BAPEvolution’s AIRA (AI Repair Assistant) empowers broadband technicians with a conversational AI chatbot. It automates route planning, data entry, troubleshooting, and serviceability checks, significantly reducing customer complaints and delivering faster, more reliable service.

2nd Place: 917V AIgnite (917 Ventures) – Project Globe Guard AI (GG AI)

Tackling the rampant scam messages clogging our inboxes, GG AI uses natural language processing and behavioral analysis to detect, classify, and block SMS scams in real time—fortifying Globe’s fraud defenses and protecting subscribers.

3rd Place: 917V AInnovate (917 Ventures) – Project QualifAI

Streamlining API testing, QualifAI automates validation and security checks across Globe’s APIs, significantly reducing testing time and bolstering software quality—helping speed up innovation cycles and improve efficiency.

While only five teams reached the finalist stage, many more showcased innovative ideas during the preliminary rounds. Noteworthy mentions include teams that addressed customer service automation, AI-powered analytics, and cost optimization—each illustrating the diverse potential of AI applications across Globe.

The Heart of the Journey: From Challenge to Change

Organizers recounted the formidable task of launching such a pioneering program without a preset playbook. The spirit of adaptability and experimentation fueled the process:

We didn’t just plan it—we built it as we went.

The organizers of Globe PlAI:Offs: Season 1

Prioritizing accessibility, Globe opened doors to all employees—regardless of technical background—creating safe spaces to experiment with AI, fail fast, and learn faster.

Guided by team captains, internal experts, and external partners, participants received mentorship and hands-on workshops, such as the PLAI:Labs series, which built confidence and nurtured entrepreneurial storytelling. These efforts aimed to foster raw problem-solving rather than polished solutions, emphasizing that AI is for everyone.

A Culture of Innovation in Motion

PlAI:Offs Team Captains and Coaches Jesse Liamzon and Lawrence Padilla shared heartfelt reflections on their experiences guiding teams. Jesse highlighted the pride of seeing his marketing team make it to the Top 5, transforming ideas into tangible AI solutions. Lawrence reflected on the camaraderie, the connections forged, and the shared enthusiasm for AI’s potential.

PlAI:Offs Team Captains and Coaches

As Globe continues to accelerate its digital transformation journey, these stories exemplify the company’s commitment to creating an ecosystem where AI is not just a tool but a catalyst for growth, inclusion, and impact.

Looking Ahead

Globe’s dedication to fostering innovation continues to run deep. The success of PLAI:Offs demonstrates how a culture built on curiosity, collaboration, and responsible experimentation can drive tangible change. As the company gears up for future seasons, it envisions an increasingly vibrant ecosystem where every employee’s idea can flourish—turning bold AI concepts into real-world impact.

“Season 1 is only the beginning. There is going to be a season 2. There’s going to be a season 3. We will keep on going. The goal of PLAI:Offs is to spread the word about our democratization strategy. But it doesn't mean that only the people that participate, the sanctioned, or the winners,will be allowed to create. Everybody in Globe can create AI. Everybody has access to it. And that's what we want to be able to spread at the end of the day.” - Anton Bonifacio

Globe is paving the way for a new wave of digital transformation across the industry. The triumphs of the finalists and semi-finalists underscore a powerful truth: innovation thrives when everyone is given the space to imagine, try, and learn.

As the journey continues, Globe remains committed to unlocking the full potential of AI—for its employees, its customers, and the broader community. With exciting developments on the horizon, PLAI:Offs is only one of the many avenues paving the beginning of a bright, innovative future—one where AI is accessible, responsible, and driven by the passionate minds within Globe.

Here’s to more breakthroughs, more collaborations, and more inspiring stories of transformation ahead!

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