Two UPD-CS Professors Win 2024 NSTW Research and Development Award

Dr. Pia Bagamasbad (left) and Dr. Aurelio de los Reyes V (right) will receive the 2024 NSTW Outstanding Research and Development Award for Basic Research. (Photo credit: Craig Soroño)

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Two scientists from the University of the Philippines – Diliman College of Science (UPD-CS) have been honored with the 2024 NSTW (National Science and Technology Week) Outstanding Research and Development Award for Basic Research by the National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines (NAST PHL).

Dr. Pia Bagamasbad of the UPD-CS National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (UPD-CS NIMBB) and Dr. Aurelio de los Reyes V of the UPD-CS Institute of Mathematics (UPD-CS IM) were commended for their exceptional contributions to Philippine society through their research.

NAST PHL recognized Dr. Bagamasbad for her research on the connection between stress, altered light-dark cycles, and breast cancer. Her study identified KLF9 as a gene connecting cortisol and circadian rhythm disruptions to breast cancer risk and progression. “The knowledge that is generated from basic research provides the solid foundation that enables us to answer many practical problems,” said Dr. Bagamasbad, noting that many Nobel Prize Laureates in Physiology or Medicine were recognized for understanding molecular and cellular processes without immediate practical aims.

The Academy also acknowledged Dr. de los Reyes for his groundbreaking research on hormone-based contraceptives, awarding him the outstanding research prize. “Our research on contraception dosing strategies goes beyond controlling population growth. It’s about empowering women by giving them safer, more informed ways to decide when to conceive and start motherhood. This is about supporting their health, their choices, and their futures,” he shared. “Using mathematics, we aim to design strategies that not only improve medical outcomes but also ensure that these decisions can be made confidently and with better understanding.”

NAST PHL, mandated with recognizing outstanding contributions to science and technology by Filipino scientists across all fields, honors individuals and institutions that have made significant advancements in knowledge generation, research, and the promotion of science and technology in the Philippines.

Dr. Bagamasbad and Dr. de los Reyes will be awarded the Eduardo A. Quisumbing Medal for basic research, along with a plaque and cash prize, during the opening ceremony of NSTW on November 27. They are also invited to present their research at the ScienTeach: Symposium for the Youth on November 28.

Both scientists will be featured in #PilipiNAST Kapehan, a series of discussions between NAST PHL and media and science communicators designed to highlight the Academy’s programs, activities, awardees, members, and relevant national issues.

Vher Agbay: A Visionary in Compliance Technology

Discover how Vher Agbay is revolutionizing electronic signatures and AML screening in the Philippines with innovative digital solutions.

The complexities of compliance are a reality for businesses across industries, but few tackle these challenges with the innovation and foresight of Vernier “Vher” Agbay. As the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and co-founder of UNAWA, Vher is a driving force behind solutions that simplify and secure compliance processes. His work in electronic signatures in the Philippines and AML screening revolutionizes how businesses navigate regulatory demands, ensuring efficiency, security, and reliability.

The Journey of a Veteran Developer

Vher Agbay’s career spans over 23 years, during which he honed his expertise in industries like healthcare, finance, and government services. His unique ability to transform intricate regulatory requirements into accessible digital tools has made him a pioneer in compliance technology. Today, as part of UNAWA, he focuses on two key innovations: electronic signatures and AML screening.

Before joining UNAWA, Vher contributed to transformative projects that tackled complex technical challenges. These experiences laid the foundation for his leadership at UNAWA, where he ensures that compliance tools are not only robust but also user-friendly.

Redefining Electronic Signatures in the Philippines

One of Vher’s most impactful contributions is the development of SignSecure, UNAWA’s proprietary electronic signature platform. This solution is a testament to his commitment to making secure, legally-binding digital transactions accessible to businesses of all sizes.

SignSecure incorporates cutting-edge features that set it apart from other solutions in the market. It uses UNAWA Face Recognition (UFR) technology to authenticate the identity of signatories biometrically, ensuring the highest level of security. This biometric integration eliminates risks associated with forgery and tampering, providing businesses with confidence in the authenticity of their transactions.

Beyond security, SignSecure addresses a pressing need for simplicity. The platform is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing workflows, ensuring that businesses adopt electronic signatures smoothly. Vher’s vision is clear: make electronic signatures in the Philippines a legal requirement and a business advantage.

Transforming AML Screening for Philippine Businesses

Compliance with the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) is a critical obligation for businesses, particularly in the financial sector. However, the traditional approaches to AML screening are often time-consuming and prone to human error. Vher recognized the need for a more efficient solution, leading to the development of UCheck, a name-screening tool tailored for Philippine businesses.

UCheck enables real-time name screening against global sanctions lists and watchlists, offering an unprecedented level of accuracy and speed. It simplifies the often cumbersome process of vetting clients and partners for potential risks, ensuring that businesses remain compliant with AMLA requirements.

What sets UCheck apart is its ability to integrate with existing systems, providing businesses with a seamless experience. Vher’s approach ensures compliance is not a disruption but a streamlined part of daily operations.

The Impact of Digital Transformation in Compliance

The introduction of tools like SignSecure and UCheck represents a significant shift in how compliance is handled in the Philippines. Traditionally, businesses relied on manual processes that were both resource-intensive and prone to errors. Vher’s innovations have changed this narrative, making compliance a digital-first process.

These tools address three critical areas:

1. Regulatory Compliance: Businesses can meet stringent AMLA requirements without overhauling their operations.

2. Operational Efficiency: Digital tools reduce the time and resources spent on compliance processes.

3. Accessibility: These solutions are accessible to even small and medium enterprises (SMEs), democratizing compliance technology.

The adoption of electronic signatures and digital AML screening tools in the Philippines is growing, driven by the need for efficiency and security.

A Vision for the Future

Vher Agbay’s work is not just about addressing current challenges; it’s about anticipating the future of compliance technology. His vision extends beyond the present-day functionality of SignSecure and UCheck. He believes that as businesses continue to digitize, solutions like these will become essential infrastructure, much like email or cloud storage.

Key trends that Vher sees shaping the future include:

Advanced Security Features: Integrating biometric technologies will set new benchmarks for secure transactions.

Automation in Compliance: AI-driven tools will further reduce the burden of manual processes.

Scalability: Tools will evolve to serve large enterprises and micro-businesses, ensuring inclusivity.

Vher’s work is at the forefront of these trends, positioning UNAWA as a leader in compliance innovation.

Why Vher Agbay’s Approach Matters

At the heart of Vher’s success is his unwavering focus on simplicity and accessibility. He understands that for businesses to adopt new technologies, the tools must be intuitive and seamlessly integrate into existing workflows. Whether it’s electronic signatures in the Philippines or AML screening, Vher’s solutions are designed to reduce complexity, not add to it.

Moreover, his leadership style fosters collaboration and innovation. At UNAWA, Vher works closely with his team to ensure that every product meets the highest standards of usability and security. His dedication ensures that UNAWA’s offerings remain relevant and effective in an ever-changing regulatory landscape.

A Legacy of Innovation

Vher Agbay’s contributions to compliance technology are shaping the future of how businesses in the Philippines approach electronic signatures and AML screening. His work has simplified complex regulatory processes and empowered businesses to operate more securely and efficiently in a digital-first world.

As the demand for robust, user-friendly compliance solutions continues to grow, Vher’s leadership ensures that UNAWA remains at the forefront of innovation. His ability to anticipate industry trends and deliver practical solutions makes him a true pioneer in the field, setting a standard for what compliance technology can achieve.

About UNAWA Inc

UNAWA is a pioneering legal tech company that was established in 2019. It empowers every Filipino business, big or small, to conquer the digital world with user-friendly legal tech tools. UNAWA makes advanced solutions accessible and affordable to build a thriving digital Philippines.

UNAWA integrates the latest technology with decades of legal expertise from its founding partner, PJS Law.

Nusantara Global Network and CXM Direct Announce Partnership for Introducing Broker Program

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 21/11/2024 – Nusantara Global Network is pleased to announce its latest collaboration with leading brokerage firm, CXM Direct, to launch an innovative initiative aimed at empowering individuals and businesses through the "How to be an Introducing Broker" program. This collaboration is expected to open new avenues for financial professionals and entrepreneurs to generate income by becoming an Introducing Broker (IB).

Through this strategic collaboration, Nusantara Global Network and CXM Direct intend to open opportunities for participants to take advantage of the growing demand for forex trading services in Malaysia and internationally.

A New Path to Financial Empowerment

The How to Become an Introducing Broker program allows individuals, from financial advisors to entrepreneurs, to act as intermediaries between merchants and CXM Direct. Participants have the opportunity to earn attractive commissions by referring clients to brokers, as well as gain access to CXM Direct's state-of-the-art trading platform, comprehensive trading tools, and comprehensive training materials.

This collaboration combines advanced forex trading technology from CXM Direct with the marketing expertise and extensive network of Nusantara Global Network to attract and support the potential of IB.

"We are very excited to work with CXM Direct in this initiative," said, Chief Executive of Nusantara Global Network. "This program is a catalyst for change for individuals who want to generate additional income while taking advantage of the growing forex market. By partnering with one of the most trusted brokers in the industry, we are confident our IBs will have the best tools, training, and support to succeed.”

Benefits of This Cooperation

Participants in the How to become an Introducing Broker program will enjoy a number of advantages, including:

Competitive Commission: Earn income from every trade made by the customers you refer.

Comprehensive Training and Support: Access to educational resources and a dedicated support team to ensure your success as an IB.

Marketing Assistance: Nusantara Global Network provides effective marketing strategies to participants to help grow their customer base.

Advanced Technology: CXM Direct's advanced platform enables a seamless trading experience for referred customers, increasing customer retention and satisfaction.

"We are very excited about the opportunity to work with Nusantara Global Network," said CXM Direct. “Our focus has always been to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in the forex industry, and this program aligns with that vision. Together, we provide a clear and profitable path for Introducing Brokers to maximize their potential.”

Keeping up with Industry Trends

This collaboration comes as the forex market continues to grow, with more traders looking for a reliable broker. By launching the How to be an Introducing Broker program, Nusantara Global Network and CXM Direct aim to stay ahead of industry trends by empowering financial intermediaries to expand their income potential.

About CXM Direct

CXM Direct is a globally recognized brokerage firm, specializing in forex and CFD trading. With advanced technology, transparent pricing, and a customer-centric approach, CXM Direct has built a reputation as a trusted trading partner and broker around the world.

About Nusantara Global Network

Nusantara Global Network is a financial and marketing consulting firm based in Malaysia, committed to providing innovative solutions for businesses and individuals. With a focus on economic empowerment and growth, the company connects entrepreneurs and financial professionals to strategic opportunities in the forex and finance industry.