Maybe that’s the Soft in Software: There's more to Technology
What began as a three-month school requirement became half a year of growth, discovery, and realizations. Zaire Villa’s software engineering internship became more than just numbers. He realized that real technology is not only about AI and IT, but also about collaborating and solving problems with the people we meet along the way.
At first, I did not have everything figured out. I knew I enjoyed computers and technology, but I did not know exactly where that interest would take me. Over time, that curiosity led me to Information Technology — and eventually to Globe. One thing led to another, and I am glad they did.
I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (IT) from Don Bosco Technical College Mandaluyong. A few months back, if you would ask me what’s up, you would know how I was meant to be a software engineer intern at Globe’s Information Systems Group (ISG) for three months. Well, I was, not until I discovered what it meant to work at Globe with the trust, learning, and investment there are in store for us. And so, I ended up staying for another three months. And I can proudly say that was one of the best choices I have ever made.
The level I found myself at
Growing up, I was naturally curious, competitive, and eager for improvement. I was a boy of many likings and interests, and one thing always stood out. I was drawn to technology. I enjoy the process of taking an idea, understanding a problem, and turning it into something useful. But in the eyes of a kid, in no way did I know what I wanted to become. All I knew was I was interested — so interested.
Looking back, I now know this wasn’t just a childhood thing. This was a calling, a bridge I built, brick by brick. I didn’t notice it, but every game I played was tied with spending time with people who matter. I didn’t notice it, but every level I won was a parallel to pushing me beyond my comfort zone.
I didn’t notice it, but my fascination with technology was likewise my fascination with turning ideas into reality. And now, the rest is history.
Going through university, I have been exposed to the many areas of IT, from software development and databases to cloud technologies, artificial intelligence, and system architecture. As I gradually knew more about technology, I knew more about myself. And as I understood more about myself, I began dreaming more — to design and build meaningful solutions — to apply technology in solving real-world problems. I yearned for more experience, and I looked for an environment where technology is used on a practical level, on a major enterprise and business scale.
Where did it lead me? To Globe.
University gave me the fundamentals for databases, programming, and problem-solving, but it was Globe who showed me what happens when these foundations entwine with humans — human life, human problems, and human needs. I wanted my work to be useful. I wanted my passions to make lives better — and Globe made these expectations come true.
“University taught me how to become an IT student. Globe helped me understand what it means to become a professional.”
As I began, I knew I was becoming a part of something bigger. Every communication, code built, and solution had real value. I’m on the level of living my dreams.
The code in my hands
I went up a notch to become more independent, to figure things out, ask the right questions, and take on difficult and constructive conversations. I often found myself in rooms with people tenfold more experienced than I was. I needed to find my way through translating raw data to people, security, and business operations. But through it all, no one imposed on me that I should know everything at once. They stayed. They trained. They encouraged.
I was new, but I was never lost. From my first day on board to the day I went off board, the professional and social support system I had with Globe never failed to show up.
I always had an anchor. With Globe, I always had my rock.
Left photo: Meeting Globe’s President & CEO Carl Cruz (and grabbing Krispy Kreme treats! 🍩) Right photo: Getting served warm taho by Globe’s CITO Anton Bonifacio (Inspiring to see leadership that's so grounded 🥤✨)
In my six months with our automation team, my favorite and the biggest highlight of my internship has been contributing to an AI service operations co-pilot. It may be highly technical, but it has also been the most grounded reminder for me that artificial intelligence is not all technology. In this project, I was able to see firsthand how AI can be integrated into actual service operations, supporting people in making processes more efficient and intelligent.
Likewise, being part of Globe Telecom’s Internal AI Hackathon, where our team was recognized 1st place, made it to my unforgettable core memories. Not only did the hackathon challenge me to work under pressure, but it also taught me how to communicate and collaborate more, articulate my ideas to different audiences better, and think beyond what I already knew.
No matter where you go, the strongest solutions never come from a person alone but a team willing to experiment, fail, improve, and keep moving forward.
Throughout my stint, our team was recognized as the Most Engaged Team from an event by Globe’s Artificial Intelligence Group, where different teams participated. Our automation team of four interns happened to have a strong understanding of the Digital Assistant for IT Services and Inquiries (DAISI) because that was the platform we worked with. So, in the event, we had much to share — actively participating, answering questions, and supporting each other throughout the event. Thus, to me, the award was never just about the recognition. It was about representation, reflecting the heart we put to work and how much it took to joke and challenge one another, brainstorm ideas together, and grow with each other.
At Globe AIG's PlAI:Station Event: Our DAISI Team is the Most Engaged Team
I must admit. The real world is really different. Fresh from school to the world of Globe, I often got stuck and unsure about how to approach business problems. When I was at school, I knew what was asked and tasked of me. But at Globe, I realized problems are not always as they seem, and you have to go the extra mile to understand them. Thankfully, having a supervisor like Ms. Jennifer Dela Cruz and supportive co-interns was half this challenge done.
Ms. Jen taught me how to handle myself professionally and guided me through the right approach for the right problems. When things got challenging, Ms. Jen helped me think through problems instead of simply giving me the answers. This opportunity made me understand more about the technicality and humanity behind IT, Globe, its system, products and services, and exposed me to things I would not have experienced in a classroom.
All this made me even more curious and invested. Ms. Jen has so many interns, and we were a lot to handle — given the already heavy work she had on her plate. And when I asked her why she took us all in, her answer amazed me even more. She saw it as a way of giving back to the community, and I am beyond fortunate to have been one passed onto.
Level finished! Onto the next
Overall, it has been a wonderful ride — troubleshooting problems, preparing for presentations and events, and having spontaneous discussions. To this day, I vividly remember my days as an intern — some focused on development and automation, some on research and meetings, some for reports, and some for absolute fun. My days at Globe gave me the skills and confidence to take on new opportunities. Because of Globe, I learned that we always have to stay curious, build with purpose, and never be afraid to learn something new. And I carry these principles progressing in my career, especially now as a Junior Developer.
Learning never stops. What made the journey exciting was realizing that IT is much bigger than simply writing code.
I entered Globe with a dream come true, and I finished my internship with a brand new dream. Seeing how technologies bring people together and make it work, I bring all the lessons and experiences I’ve had moving forward. Having witnessed how IT equally needs the technical side and the soft side of listening and collaborating, I aspire to continue building solutions that combine technology, automation, and thoughtful system design and help others build alongside me, too.
I had my best months at Globe as an intern, and I believe these are the best months any aspiring intern or professional should look forward to, as well. Globe transformed my internship experience beyond a requirement to be completed to an opportunity of self-reflection and discovery of who I truly want to be. So be curious. Be active. Be teachable. Be excited to learn and try, and the Globe way is yours to walk.
Yes, there were and there will always be days when we would feel we are not enough. And I tell you that we should value these moments, because that is exactly what an internship is for.
To build you. To give you memories you will carry long after. To bring you further than you expected.
Having been a Ka-Globe felt like seeing a version of myself I envisioned become real. Every step, misstep, success, failed attempt, mastered tech, unfamiliar tech, and person was meant to be part of my journey. And through this all, I can say, this is only the beginning. Globe brought me closer to my next big dream — not because I now know everything, but because I have a clearer picture of where I want to go.
There was a time when I was simply a student trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my future. I did not have all the answers. I just knew that I loved technology and wanted to build something meaningful. That time is now behind me. Now, I am found.
My time at Globe gave me more than experience. It gave me direction. And for that, I will always be grateful.
Discover more inspiring stories and exciting internship opportunities at Globe, as you start your journey of growth today. Follow Globe Telecom on LinkedIn to explore programs designed to help you unlock your full potential.
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