EastWest Builds Smarter, More Relevant Banking for Customers

EastWest is advancing a smarter, easier and more customer-focused model of banking--using data to deliver more relevant financial options, improving everyday service experiences, and helping broaden investor access to one of the country’s landmark public offerings.

These initiatives earned EastWest three major recognitions from Asian Banking & Finance (ABF): Mid-Sized Retail Bank of the Year – Philippines and Analytics Initiative of the Year – Philippines, both for the second consecutive year at the Asian Banking and Finance Retail Banking Awards, and its first IPO Deal of the Year – Philippines award at the Asian Banking and Finance Corporate and Investment Banking Awards.

The awards demonstrate the impact of EastWest’s continued push to make banking more intuitive, accessible, and relevant to customers’ evolving financial needs. The Bank combines digital convenience with personal, advisory-led service across its store network which provides customers with more ways to transact, seek guidance, and manage their money with confidence. In 2025, digital transactions accounted for 51% of total transactions, while new digital onboarding capabilities enabled customers to open accounts and access services with less time and effort.

EastWest also completed customer journey improvements across digital onboarding, dispute resolution, complaints handling, and in-store experience. These enhancements helped drive an eight-point improvement in the Bank’s Net Promoter Score and a lower complaints ratio, reflecting stronger customer experience outcomes.

“Our progress begins with understanding what customers genuinely need and removing the friction that can get in their way,” said Ms. Ivy B. Uy, EVP and Head of Branch Banking Group. “Whether they are opening an account, exploring an investment, growing a business, or planning for the future, we want every interaction with EastWest to feel more relevant, thoughtful, and easy.”

The same customer-first discipline also shaped EastWest’s award-winning analytics initiative. As market conditions evolved and customer preferences shifted, the Bank used data-driven insights to better understand how customers manage savings, investments, and liquidity across different life stages and financial goals.

These insights gave EastWest Stores and relationship managers a stronger basis for meaningful customer conversations, enabling more personalized guidance on fixed-income investment options while supporting both immediate needs and long-term financial planning.

Beyond retail banking, EastWest was also recognized for its role in expanding access to the Philippine capital market as a Domestic Participating Underwriter for the initial public offering of Maynilad Water Services, Inc.

Completed in November 2025, the transaction became one of the largest initial public offerings in Philippine history and drew strong investor interest, reinforcing confidence in the country’s capital markets.

Through its distribution network and client relationships, EastWest helped support domestic and retail investor participation, contributing to a more diversified shareholder base. The offering also strengthened Maynilad’s capital base for long-term water and wastewater infrastructure investments while broadening its access to funding.

“These recognitions reflect different strengths of the Bank, but they are connected by one purpose: creating meaningful value for the people and institutions we serve,” Uy added. “They encourage us to keep listening, learning, and finding better ways to help our customers move forward.”

EastWest’s latest ABF wins validate its customer-focused growth strategy: using insight to make financial decisions more relevant, improving access across physical and digital channels, and connecting more Filipinos to opportunities in banking and investment.

Home for K-Pop Fandom: SM Mall of Asia Arena Brings Fans Closer to the Experience

K-pop has continued to redefine the live concert experience, introducing new ways for artists and fans to connect. From VIP privileges such as soundchecks, exclusive merchandise, and hi-bye sessions to synchronized lightsticks and fan-led activities, every element adds to an immersive experience that begins long before the artists take the stage. 

EXO brings a galaxy of lights to the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

This was evident at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena, which hosted two major K-pop concerts in July, drawing thousands of fans eager to celebrate their favorite artists and connect with fellow members of their communities. 

Souvenirs and photos in the venue

Long before the show began, the areas surrounding the venue had already transformed into a gathering place for fans. On July 4 and 5, EXO-Ls, the official fandom of K-pop boy group EXO, filled the venue with coordinated outfits, banners, fan-made accessories, and other expressions of support for the group. 

Fans took a snap with the idols through individual photo walls.

Taking home a piece of the experience also became an integral part of the concert. Official merchandise quickly sold out, while fans lined up to capture souvenir photos at photo walls and other installations around the venue. 

Fans take home a piece of the concert with complementary fan banners and perks.

The experience extended beyond the performance itself. For many fans, the venue became a space where shared admiration for their favorite artists brought people together and turned a concert weekend into a celebration of community. 

Dedication rooted from admiration

The same passion was evident during the much-anticipated return of K-pop girl group ITZY on July 11. Despite the weather, fans made their way to the venue, navigating walkways and available routes to reunite with the group and fellow MIDZYs.

Their dedication reflected the deep connection between K-pop artists and their fans, where attending a concert goes beyond watching a live performance. It becomes a shared experience shaped by anticipation, preparation, and the excitement of celebrating alongside a community.

Fans display confidence in every step of the way during the ITZY 3rd World Tour <TUNNEL VISION>.

The energy throughout the concert dates highlighted how K-pop events have evolved into celebrations of music, passion, and belonging. Beyond the performances, these events give fans a space to express themselves, connect with people who share their interests, and create lasting memories.

At the SM Mall of Asia Arena, the K-pop concert experience begins before the first song and continues long after the final encore, bringing artists and fans together through moments worth remembering.

BPI partners with PCAF to strengthen decarbonization priorities

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) has joined the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF), a global initiative that enables financial institutions to measure and disclose greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with their financing and investment activities.

By becoming a PCAF signatory, BPI strengthens its commitment to supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy and advancing climate action through science-based and globally recognized methodologies.

PCAF is the leading global partnership for financial institutions seeking to assess and disclose financed emissions. Its methodology has become the most widely adopted standard for carbon accounting across the banking and financial services industry, enabling institutions to measure emissions linked to their lending and investment portfolios in a transparent and comparable manner.

“BPI recognizes that effective climate action begins with measuring impact,” said Eric Luchangco, BPI Chief Finance Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer. “Joining PCAF marks an important step in our sustainability journey as it provides us with a globally accepted framework for understanding our financed emissions and identifying opportunities to support our clients’ decarbonization efforts.”

As one of the country’s leading financial institutions, BPI views carbon accounting as a critical foundation for climate mitigation. Establishing a quantitative baseline for financed emissions allows the Bank to better understand the carbon footprint of its portfolio and develop more targeted strategies to support the transition of carbon-intensive sectors toward lower-emission operations.

The partnership complements BPI’s broader sustainability agenda, including its Decarbonization Roadmap, which outlines the Bank’s commitment to reducing emissions from its own operations through energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, and other climate-related initiatives.

Beyond strengthening transparency and accountability, PCAF membership enables BPI to align its carbon accounting practices with those of leading global financial institutions. This comparability supports more informed decision-making and enhances the Bank’s ability to evaluate and finance low-carbon technologies and climate solutions.

With a clearer understanding of financed emissions across priority sectors, BPI aims to further refine its sustainable finance strategy and support clients in identifying practical pathways toward decarbonization.

The announcement forms part of BPI’s observance of its Sustainability Awareness Month last June 2026, an annual initiative that highlights the Bank’s efforts to create long-term value through financial inclusion, environmental stewardship, and sustainable development. Through partnerships such as PCAF, BPI continues to strengthen its role in helping drive the country’s transition toward a more sustainable future. 

Philippine Seven Corporation Posts Record Sales in 2025, Opens a New Chapter Under President Richard Lee

Philippine Seven Corporation (PSC), the exclusive licensor of 7-Eleven in the Philippines, closed 2025 with record system-wide sales and continued nationwide growth, in a year that marked a new chapter for its leadership. At its Annual Stockholders' Meeting, the Company reported another year of solid financial performance, a wider store network, and accelerated digital transformation, reinforcing its position as the country's leading convenience store chain and laying a strong foundation for its next phase of sustainable growth.

Another Year of Strong Financial Performance

PSC delivered another year of strong results in 2025. System-wide sales grew to a record   Php 99.4 billion, up 6.4% from Php 93.5 billion in 2024, driven by higher customer traffic, larger basket sizes, and continued store expansion. Revenues rose 7.2% to Php 95.1 billion from Php 88.7 billion the year before.

Net income remained strong at Php 3.6 billion, demonstrating the resilience of the business despite a more challenging consumer and operating environment. The Company also strengthened its balance sheet, growing total assets by 10.5% to Php 47.8 billion and stockholders' equity by 23% to Php 11.2 billion. Return on equity improved by 41 basis points to a record 35.61%, with debt-to-equity properly managed at 3.28x, giving PSC the flexibility to fund future investments and continued expansion.

"We delivered another solid year in a demanding environment," said Richard Lee, President of Philippine Seven Corporation. "Our priority was continuity, keeping the momentum going while strengthening the business for what comes next. We stayed disciplined in how we grow and kept investing in the capabilities that serve our customers and shareholders over the long term."

A New Chapter Under New Leadership

2025 was a year of transition and continuity for PSC. In July 2025, Mr. Richard Lee assumed the Presidency of the Company, while Mr. Jose Victor Paterno moved into the role of Chairman of the Board. The handover marked a new chapter for PSC while preserving the continuity of its long-term growth strategy, with the Company staying focused on sustainable expansion, operational excellence, and innovation, and keeping the creation of long-term shareholder value at the center of every decision.

Highlighting the company's strategic direction, Philippine Seven Corporation Board Chairman Jose Victor Paterno noted that the past year represented a pivotal transition period.

"I am confident in the leadership now guiding the Company day to day," Paterno said. "Richard brings a deep understanding of our operations and a disciplined approach to growth. As the Board, our focus remains on sustaining that momentum and creating lasting value for our shareholders and the communities we serve."

Strengthened Market Leadership Through Expansion

PSC continued to grow its nationwide 7-Eleven network in 2025, ending the year with 4,491 stores from 4,130 the previous year, an addition of 423 new stores that brought everyday convenience closer to more Filipino communities. Of the total network, 53.42% are company-owned and 46.58% are franchised. The Company expanded its footprint in key growth markets and reinforced its leadership in the Philippine convenience retail sector, while enhancing store formats and the overall customer experience to keep pace with evolving consumer needs. Strong performance from fresh food and PSC's proprietary foodservice brands further supported growth across the network.

Investing for the Future

PSC continued to invest in the capabilities that will power its next phase of growth, directing resources into store modernization, technology, supply chain, and operational efficiency. The Company accelerated its digital transformation to make everyday shopping more convenient for customers and its operations more responsive.

A key milestone was the expansion of cashless payment acceptance across the network. Cashless payment acceptance was successfully rolled out to more than 1,000 stores by the end of 2025, and has since built on that momentum, expanding to cover over 4,000 stores by the end of May 2026. Customers can now pay using credit cards, debit cards, QR Ph, e-wallets, and other cashless methods, making transactions faster and more convenient. These investments position the business for long-term, sustainable growth built on continued innovation.

"We enter the next chapter with confidence," Lee added. "Our focus now is on execution, opening the right stores, deepening how we serve customers, and scaling the digital and payment capabilities we built this year. That is how we keep 7-Eleven the most convenient choice for Filipinos wherever they are."

The Green Revolution Isn’t A Loud One

When people think of a “revolution,” they often imagine bold movements and sweeping change. But some of the most lasting transformations happen more quietly—through small, intentional habits that slowly become part of everyday life. The choice to walk more, bring a reusable bag, support local brands, or spend time in greener spaces may seem simple on their own, but together, these everyday decisions can shape more mindful communities over time.

Across Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, this green revolution is reflected in the way people dine, shop, gather, and move through its spaces. Through thoughtfully designed environments, eco-conscious concepts, and community-driven initiatives, more sustainable living becomes less intimidating and more naturally woven into everyday experiences.

Here are some of the habits quietly shaping a greener lifestyle across its communities:

Spending More Time Outdoors

Choosing to stay active in open community spaces is a simple habit that can support both personal wellness and a more sustainable lifestyle. Across Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, open spaces are designed to encourage walkability, movement, and community interaction.




Eastwood City’s revitalized open park offers greener spaces for people to relax and gather, while Arcovia City’s wide open areas naturally encourage walking, running, and active lifestyles. In Uptown Bonifacio, pedestrian-friendly walkways, open promenades, and alfresco areas promote cleaner mobility and lessen short-distance vehicle use. Forbes Town and Venice Grand Canal likewise create more immersive outdoor experiences through walkable environments, open plazas, and community-centered activities.

Shopping More Mindfully

Responsible consumption starts with purchasing items that can be reused, repurposed, or given a second life. At Uptown Bonifacio, Biblio extends the life cycle of books through pre-loved titles, while Roots Collective champions locally sourced and sustainability-driven products crafted by Filipino entrepreneurs.




Biblio supports book reuse and resale, while Roots Collective promotes sustainability through hands-on learning workshops.

Global brands are likewise making eco-conscious shopping more accessible through everyday practices. H&M promotes garment recycling, MUJI encourages reusable lifestyle habits, while Paper Bunny incorporates FSC-certified and recycled materials into its stationery products. In Eastwood City, wellness and sustainability also intersect through brands like For Keeps Clean Beauty, Flying Tiger, and Wacoal, each championing more mindful product and recycling practices in their own way.

This shift toward more responsible consumption is further reinforced through Megaworld’s support of the Philippine Retailers Association’s “The Bag Habit” campaign, encouraging shoppers to make reusable bags part of their everyday routine.

Making Better Dining Choices

Choosing restaurants that support mindful sourcing and less waste is another habit that can create long-term impact. Across Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, restaurants and cafés are likewise embracing more mindful practices.



Healthy Options and SaladStop! bring fresh, mindful, and earth-friendly choices to the table.



Nono’s Benta Box and Italianni’s Amore Box serve up crowd-favorite meals in more eco-conscious packaging.



Healthy Options promotes conscious living through organic products and in-store recycling initiatives, while SaladStop! supports sustainability through locally sourced ingredients and compostable packaging. Dining groups such as The Moment Group and The Bistro Group have also shifted toward paper-based takeout packaging across select restaurants, while CHAGEE promotes app-based ordering alongside reusable tumblers and paper-based cups, lids, and straws.




BreadTalk and Tandem champion lower-waste dining through food donations, thoughtful menus, and smarter ingredient use.



Green Bar reduces reliance on processed products, while Lyfe Bowls uses responsibly sourced ingredients.




Other brands continue to champion sustainability in different ways—from BreadTalk’s food donation initiatives and Tandem’s zero-waste approach to the plant-forward concepts of Green Bar and Lyfe Bowls. Starbucks also encourages reusable habits through tumbler incentives and reduced plastic waste initiatives across all Megaworld Lifestyle Malls.




Growing Greener Communities

Initiatives that encourage greener lifestyles while helping create more nature-connected communities in urban spaces deserve greater support and participation. Megaworld Lifestyle Malls continues to encourage urban sustainability through these initiatives that reconnect communities with nature.

The rainwater park made climate-responsive design tangible by combining a 3.7-million-gallon stormwater system with public open space.

Soon to take root at McKinley Hill Botanical Garden, the Community Edible Garden will create a greener urban space that promotes urban farming, environmental awareness, and more mindful living. Meanwhile, Capital Town’s Rainwater Park in Pampanga highlights how sustainability and public spaces can work hand in hand. Beyond serving as a scenic lifestyle destination, the park helps collect and manage rainwater to support surrounding greenery and help mitigate flooding during heavy rains.

Embracing Smarter Energy and Waste Habits

Practicing better waste habits and becoming more conscious of energy consumption are actions that advance environmental stewardship. At Uptown Bonifacio and Iloilo Business Park, solar-powered benches allow guests to conveniently charge devices using solar energy, while Festive Walk Iloilo integrates solar panels as part of its broader energy efficiency efforts—avoiding 530.69 tons of carbon emissions.



Megaworld Lifestyle Malls also continues to encourage more mindful waste habits through Restore Solutions PH’s Smart Eco-llection Bins, where guests can properly dispose of clean and dry flexible plastics in exchange for rewards.

Environmental efforts further extend beyond the malls through coastal and marine conservation initiatives in The Mactan Newtown and Boracay Newcoast, where regular clean-up drives, underwater clean-ups, coral dome deployments, and marine conservation activities continue to help protect local ecosystems.

Adopting Greener Mobility

Choosing to walk more, use shared transportation, or shift to electric vehicles are everyday mobility habits that can help reduce emissions and contribute to cleaner, more sustainable cities. As greener transportation becomes part of daily life, accessible infrastructure plays an important role in making these choices easier and more convenient.




Across Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, sustainable mobility is supported through free EV charging stations located in key destinations including Uptown Bonifacio, Eastwood City, Forbes Town, Arcovia City, Lucky Chinatown, and Festive Walk Iloilo. Designed to fit naturally into everyday routines, these stations allow guests to conveniently charge their vehicles while dining, shopping, or enjoying leisure activities throughout the malls. Select locations such as Uptown Bonifacio, Eastwood City, and Venice Grand Canal also feature Tesla charging stations to support the growing community of electric vehicle users.

One Habit at a Time

As everyday lifestyles continue to evolve, Megaworld Lifestyle Malls remains committed to creating spaces that encourage more thoughtful ways of living—from the way communities gather and move, to the choices they make when dining, shopping, and spending time together. Through these initiatives, sustainability becomes more than just an idea, but a shared mindset that communities can gradually grow into.

By continuously introducing experiences and programs that support both people and the environment, Megaworld Lifestyle Malls continues to look toward a future where thriving communities and a healthier planet can go hand in hand—one habit at a time.

For updates, visit megaworld-lifestylemalls.com or call (02) 8462-8888.

Jollibee gives Jolly Spaghetti a saucier upgrade

 Jollibee , the Philippines’ number one fast food chain, has made one of its most iconic menu favorites even better with the launch of the new and improved Jolly Spaghetti, now made with more of its signature sweet-sarap (deliciously sweet) sauce while remaining affordably priced at just P72.

The improvement comes as Jollibee continues to refine its best-loved products based on what customers enjoy most about the brand's signature Filipino-style spaghetti.

"For many Filipinos, Jolly Spaghetti isn't just another pasta dish. It's comfort food that has become part of family traditions and childhood memories," said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. "We wanted to make that experience even better by giving customers more of the sauce they love most. We hope families enjoy it even more every time they share a meal together."

The launch is supported by a video featuring the Arellano family with the campaign line "More sauce na, more sweet-sarap saya," (Now with more sauce for more sweet, delicious enjoyment) celebrating the role of Jolly Spaghetti in creating joyful moments around the table.

The new Jolly Spaghetti with more sauce is available in Jollibee stores nationwide for dine-in, takeout, drive-thru, and delivery. Aside from the Jolly Spaghetti Solo, customers can also enjoy it as a Jolly Spaghetti Family Pan, in meals such as Jolly Spaghetti with Drink, Jolly Spaghetti with Fries & Drink, Jolly Spaghetti with Yumburger & Drink, and Jolly Spaghetti with 1-pc. Burger Steak & Drink, as well as in Family Super Meals.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites at https://order.jollibee.com, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises!

HP Inkcredible Learning Day

As digital tools continue to shape the way people learn, work, and create, HP brought families together to rediscover the value of print through HP INKredible Learning Day, a hands-on workshop celebrating creativity, storytelling, and meaningful family connections.

Held during the back-to-school season, the event featured visual artist and storyteller Geloy Concepcion, who led participants through activities centered on printed photos, personal storytelling, and creative keepsakes. The workshop showed how print can support everyday needs, from learning materials and creative projects to practical tools for work and entrepreneurship.

HP’s INKredible Learning Day aims to highlight the value of turning ideas into something tangible and useful. From preserving family memories to supporting school activities and helping small businesses create everyday marketing materials, print continues to play an important role beyond the screen. 

“Print continues to have a meaningful place in our everyday lives—not only as a tool for productivity, but also as a way to support learning, encourage creativity, and preserve the moments that matter most. Through HP INKredible Learning Day, we wanted to show that printing can be both practical and personal,” said Ida Evina Ong-Co, Managing Director of HP Philippines.

Bringing family stories to life through print

During the workshop, Concepcion shared his creative process and guided participants through hands-on activities using HP Printables, printed family photos, stickers, postcards, and other creative materials. Families worked together to personalize their own keepsakes, giving parents and children a tangible way to reflect on shared memories and express their stories.

"We're constantly creating memories, but so many of them stay inside our phones. Print gives us a chance to slow down, revisit those moments, and transform them into something we can see, hold, and share with the people around us. I hope today's workshop reminds people that creativity doesn't have to be complicated—it can begin with a photograph, a story, or even a simple piece of paper," said Geloy Concepcion.

Exclusive HP Printables illustrated by Concepcion further encouraged participants to personalize their creations, demonstrating how simple printed templates can become meaningful expressions of creativity for people of all ages.

Making creativity more accessible anywhere

Throughout the workshop, participants experienced firsthand how the HP Smart Tank 580 supports everyday creativity—from printing family photos and activity sheets to producing personalized keepsakes and practical learning materials. 

The HP Smart Tank 580 is a cost-efficient, high-performance printer designed for individuals, families, creators, and small businesses that require hassle-free, high-volume printing. With vibrant color output, print, scan, and copy capabilities, seamless wireless connectivity, and low-cost ink refills, it delivers reliable, high-quality printing for school, home, creative, and business needs.

The event concluded with the INKredible Post Award, where participants shared their workshop experience on social media for a chance to win an HP Smart Tank 580 printer.

Through HP INKredible Learning Day, HP continues to demonstrate how print remains an essential companion to digital living—empowering people to learn, create, work, and bring ideas to life with greater purpose and productivity.

For more information on HP Smart Tank printers, visit https://www.hp.com/ph-en/printers/smart-tank.html

New GCash Stories Film Celebrates Second Chances with Atty. Sheila Gomez’s Journey to the Bar

Not every dream unfolds exactly as planned, and the journey toward making it a reality isn't always a straight path. Sometimes it calls for unwavering perseverance. Other times, it means finding the courage to take a second chance. And often, true progress comes from knowing when to ask for help so you can keep moving forward.

It's this spirit of courage and perseverance that takes center stage in the sixth installment of this year’s #GCashStories, the flagship campaign from the country’s No. 1 Finance Super App and Largest Cashless Ecosystem. Themed “Kasama Mo Mangarap,” this latest chapter reveals the deeply inspiring real-life journey of Atty. Sheila Gomez—a former legal aide whose lifelong dream of becoming an attorney was realized through sheer determination and responsible financial choices, with the timely support of GLoan.

“Our GCash Stories campaign showed us that the most powerful script is that of real life,” said Neil Trinidad, Chief Marketing Officer of Mynt. “Progress becomes possible when people are given the right support at the right time. At GCash, we believe our role goes far beyond providing financial tools—we want to empower Filipinos to keep moving forward. Every Filipino deserves to dream and deserves a second chance in pursuing just that. We take immense pride in Sheila’s journey because it is living proof that digital financial inclusion doesn't just solve a temporary problem; it turns everyday obstacles into real, lasting possibilities - dreams achieved.”

More Than Just a Story: The #GCashStories Movement

GCash Stories is a celebration of real Filipinos whose journeys remind us that progress is often built through everyday acts of courage, determination, and hope. Over the last three years, the campaign has evolved into a nationwide movement that transcends storytelling, capturing a rich collection of lived experiences that reflect the aspirations, challenges, and triumphs of underserved communities across the country and their individual stories of progress with the help of GCash.

By welcoming Atty. Sheila into this portfolio, GCash continues to spark vital conversations about financial inclusion. Her story adds to a powerful legacy of real-life breakthroughs previously featured by the brand:

• Cocoy, a laid-off bartender who turned into a successful business owner with the help of GLoan.

• Alma, a well-loved university employee who lost her home to Typhoon Ulysses but rebuilt it through community crowdfunding via GCash Send Money.

• Turing, a drag queen and breadwinner who sustained her family during the pandemic by digital tipping via GCash QR.

• Adz, a champion para-athlete who raised funds via GCash Send Money to advocate for the new generation of para-athletes.

• Rhea Inayan, Ang Bayani ng Barangay from Bacolod City, who empowered a community through her GCash Pera Outlet, bringing essential financial services directly to her neighborhood

“At the heart of every GCash Story is a real story of financial progress,” said Lourdes Batac, GCash Head for Communication Strategy. "At the end of the day, GCash’s own narrative is not just about the products we’ve made, but how our products have transformed the lives of everyday Filipinos. We owe it to Cocoy, Ate Alma, Turing, Adz, Rhea, and Sheila for allowing GCash to share their story so that more Filipinos today can clearly imagine their own financial progress journey.”

Meet Atty. Sheila Gomez: From Dreamer to Lawyer

For Atty. Sheila Gomez, becoming a lawyer was a dream built on years of sacrifice. While working full-time as a legal aide, she tirelessly juggled the demands of her day job with the rigorous, exhausting requirements of law school, balancing long days at work with late nights of studying.

However, as law school expenses began to pile up alongside everyday living costs, Sheila faced an overwhelming reality familiar to millions of working Filipinos: the heavy weight of financial anxiety. Every enrollment and exam season brought a persistent fear of falling short. Rather than putting her life's calling on hold, she made the decision to turn to GLoan as her silent, reliable personal partner.

The loan provided her with the immediate financial flexibility to cover her law school expenses, allowing her to stay completely focused on her goals without compromising her self-worth or hiding in shame. Armed with this support, she successfully passed the Bar. Today, she continues her journey of financial progress as an active user of GCredit and GGives, proudly declaring, "Ako si Sheila, at ito ang aking GCash Story."

“One of the biggest lessons I learned is that perseverance doesn't always mean doing everything on your own. Sometimes, it means having the courage to seek the right support,” Atty. Sheila Gomez shared during a fireside chat. “It's unfortunate that many Filipinos see loans in a negative light, but when used responsibly and with a clear purpose, borrowing can be a powerful tool and a smart investment that moves you closer to your dreams. I'm grateful that GLoan gave me that opportunity.”

Fuse and GCash: Championing Fair and Respectful Lending

Atty. Sheila’s story highlights a critical reality in today’s economic landscape. Amidst inflation and a challenging local economy, many Filipinos still face predatory lenders or rigid, traditional systems that leave them feeling trapped rather than helped.

Celebrating its 10th year, Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash, steps in to actively destigmatize the lending category, championing fair, transparent, and respectful financial practices. Proving that responsible lending should empower the borrower, protect their dignity, and provide a clear path forward, not a cycle of debt. 

“Since our inception, we have pursued our mission: 'Fair loans that spark better every day for all Filipinos,'” said Tony Isidro, President and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc. “Everything we do rests on three core commitments: to provide fast, collateral-free loans; to ensure a safe and secure credit experience; and most importantly, to enable Filipinos to borrow with dignity. When paired with discipline and perseverance, responsible borrowing becomes a stepping stone to lasting financial progress.”

Enabling Every Filipino's Journey Toward a Better Future

While Sheila's triumph takes center stage, hers represents the millions of borrowers who turn to GLoan to continue their education, scale their livelihoods, support their families, and overcome unexpected challenges.

Through these collective experiences, GCash lives out its ultimate vision of Finance for All. By meeting Filipinos exactly where they are, GCash reinforces the universal truth that every individual has the right to dream and achieve those dreams, no matter their socioeconomic situation.

For more information on GLoan and to watch Atty. Sheila’s full GCash Story, visit https://youtu.be/CHrVTlAhmRI.

Inspired by Atty. Sheila and ready to move forward? Access GLoan through the GCash dashboard or find it under “Borrow.” Download the GCash app on the App Store or Google Play now and jumpstart your dreams. Kaya Mo. I-GCash mo. 

Why You Should Break Up with Your Payroll Account

 Saving in your salary account is a financial situationship you need to exit, and you can easily start fresh with better rates on GSave by GCash.

Everyone has done it: using your first payroll account as your “everything” account because you’ve had it for so long, and opening a new one takes too long. It’s easier to just stay in that comfortable "situationship" with your payroll account, but the only thing that will come out of it is giving up your hard-earned money’s growth. 

But when there are better options out there that give you better rates for close to no effort, your payroll account becomes the dead weight to financial independence.

Breaking up with a long-term habit is hard, but moving forward doesn't have to be a dramatic, stressful event. Here are the steps and tips to smoothly transition your savings away from your payroll account this coming payday:

Step 1: Have your new savings account ready

Overlapping is frowned upon in real-world relationships, but in finances, having your next savings account lined up is smart planning. Don’t wait until payday to figure out where your savings should go. If you scramble during the rush, inertia wins, and you’ll end up leaving your money in your payroll account.

Open a high-yield savings account (HYSA) a few days early. GSave on GCash gives you access to the most trusted banks without going through the effort of setting up an account in any of their branches. Get it fully verified and active ahead of time so it’s ready to welcome your funds the second your salary comes in.

Step 2: Update your trackers in advance 

If you monitor every peso, update your budget tracker before the big move. Setting up a column or an account for the new HYSA ahead of time does more than just make the move seamless. Like defining a relationship, a label creates a psychological commitment that makes the transition feel real and official. 

Step 3: Move your savings to your new account

When the salary notification drops, immediately transfer your designated savings from your payroll account to your HYSA. How much you move depends on your style: if you follow a strict rule (like 50/30/20), transfer that exact percentage right away. If you prefer to pay bills first and save what remains, do that instead. The goal is simply to get it out of your payroll account and build the habit of saving.

Step 4: Automate your transfer from payroll to savings 

Once you’ve done the manual transfer a couple of times, automate it. Set up a recurring auto-transfer from your payroll account to your digital savings account. Automation helps ensure you won’t accidentally go back to your old habit of keeping your money dormant in your payroll account, and keeps your financial goals moving forward. 

Finalizing your financial breakup and transitioning to wiser financial habits doesn’t have to be complicated. GSave by GCash is a digital savings platform built right into your app to make this transition effortless. 

It connects you with trusted partner banks—such as CIMB, BPI, Maybank, UNObank, and Cebuana Lhuillier Rural Bank—offering interest rates of up to 4.15% p.a. to help your savings grow faster. 

A low-maintenance partnership with GSave takes less than five minutes to lock in. Because you access it entirely on your phone, there are zero trips to physical branches and no extra documents to stress over. Moving funds from your payroll to GCash is straightforward with a minimal cash-in fee, and once active, you have the total freedom to deposit any amount with no minimum balance required.

Because it’s inside the GCash app, transferring your money between your HYSA and wallet is instant and free—giving you immediate access to pay bills, send money, or shop online whenever the need arises. 

GSave also ensures you stay in total control of your money without lock-in periods or restrictive bank operating hours. Your funds remain accessible around the clock while resting safely in accounts that are fully PDIC-insured

Walking away from a stagnant routine is the hardest part of any transition, but your savings shouldn’t have to pay the price for convenience. Choosing a savings partner like GSave ensures you build a more rewarding relationship with the money you work so hard to earn.

To open an account on GSave you must be a Filipino Citizen, at least 18 years old, and a fully verified GCash user. Ready to grow your money? You may access  GSave through the GCash dashboard or find it under “Grow.” No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!

Vermosa Green Run 5.0 achieves sustainability goals

The Vermosa Green Run returned for its fifth edition on Sunday, June 28, attracting more than 2,000 runners and their dogs at the Vermosa Estates in Imus, Cavite.

 

Participants in the five-tiered dawn run consisted of running enthusiasts, run club members, elite runners and fun runners as well as the media running community. Edgardo Panopio and Lorely Magalona won gold in the 21K category; Jomm Lacanilao-Gay and Patrice Quiday ruled the 10K run; John Mark Balogo and Ira Alvaro finished first in 5K, Jessi Valentine and Danielle Sophia topped the 3K category, while Moises Calastravo and his dog, Onzi made their mark in the 1K Dog Run.

 

Participants were encouraged to donate used plastic bottles as part of the Run. These would be turned over later to the Makati Development Corporation (MDC) for upcycling into eco-bricks that would support sustainable construction at Ayala Land projects.

 

The runners’ singlets, finisher shirts and dog bandanas were manufactured entirely from recycled PET bottles as well, turning plastic waste into premium sportswear.

 

"We wanted our runners to experience sustainability both literally and symbolically. This year, we offered a discount for donating used PET bottles, and the community supported this! Celebrating our landmark fifth consecutive year, the energy across our 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K tracks, and 1K Dog Run was unmatched. Seeing families, elite athletes, and pet lovers come together at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub shows that our community's passion for fitness is deeply intertwined with environmental action,” said Lani Tan, General Manager of the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub, where the Run took place.

 

“Looking ahead, our goal is to continue scaling this impact. While Vermosa remains our flagship home because of its expansive, nature-forward open spaces, we are constantly exploring deeper corporate and community partnerships. We want to bring more runners into the fold each year, proving that active, high-performance lifestyles can be completely sustainable," Ms. Tan shared.

 

Runs for the environment, such as the Vermosa Green Run help save the planet by raising crucial funds for ecological projects, promoting sustainable habits and directly supporting initiatives like tree planting.

This year the Vermosa Green Run encouraged corporate and group registrations, inviting groups of 10 to participate and automatically become part of Haribon Foundation’s Forests for Life Movement. The Haribon initiative supports native tree planting and forest restoration projects in partner communities nationwide by bringing  together individuals, organizations, and local communities to restore degraded forests using a science-based rainforestation approach focused on planting and nurturing native tree species.

"Our partnership with the Haribon Foundation is a cornerstone of why we do this. Over the past few editions, the funds raised have gone directly into Haribon's Adopt-a-Seedling and rainforestation programs. For this milestone 5th edition, we were overwhelmed by registrations where we attracted many groups of 10. That means hundreds of new native trees will be nurtured directly because of our runners’ strides today. Crossing the finish line is fantastic, but knowing your team left a lasting ecological legacy is the real victory," said Letty Oh-Naňagas, Vermosa Marketing Manager.

 

Beneficiaries of The Green Run at Vermosa 2026 are Haribon Foundation, Takbo Kabitenyo and Pawssion Project as the expression of its advocacy for ecosystem conservation, an active lifestyle and youth sports development, and animal welfare.

 

Supporters of the fifth edition of the Vermosa Green Run are Oishi, Merrell, Pocari, Salonpas, Booster C, Fitbar, Gatsby, Milo, Apex, Topbreed, Dunsk Kuhner, Baby Boo, Chef Special, Entrée Gourmet Pet Treats, Saint Roche, The Gourmet Specialist, Zert, and Wonderpaw.