Leveraging technology, empowering local communities to help protect Sierra Madre and Mt. Makiling

The University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) is partnering with GCash,

the leading Philippine finance super app, through its GForest program, to address

environmental threats like illegal forest conversion and accelerate the restoration of

degraded lands within the Mount Makiling Georeserve and the Sierra Madre mountain range.

The strategic partnership aims to protect and reforest 250 hectares of land within the two

land grants managed by UPLB by planting at least 130,000 forest and fruit trees during the

first phase, and another 25,000 seedlings for urban and roadside planting in parts of

Mount Makiling Georeserve by 2029.

(L-R) UPLB University research associate Arthur Umali, UPLB-CFNR dean Marlo D. Mendoza MDM, and GCash head for sustainability CJ Alegre, during the ceremonial planting of Dillenia philippinensis (Katmon), an endemic species, in a joint initiative promoting biodiversity conservation and environmental stewardship

 UPLB, as the Center for Excellence in Forestry Education, is set to implement its data-driven and science-based approach to identify suitable types of trees, strategic project areas, and apply implementation strategies to ensure environmental conservation and reforestation efforts translate into meaningful long-term impact.

The academic institution also seeks to tap local communities as long-term partners in planting and stewardship, empowering them through livelihood opportunities and ongoing involvement. These include women’s groups, people’s organizations, and qualified UPLB community members.

UPLB also seeks to engage participation and support from relevant local government units (LGUs) in Laguna, municipalities in Quezon province, and national-level government agencies like the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Science and Technology (DICT).

Marked by a ceremonial contract signing led by UPLB, its College of Forestry and Natural Resources (CFNR), the Land Grant Management Office (LGMO), and GCash, through the support of its 22-million GForest Green Heroes, pledged to plant at least 130,000 forest and fruit trees across 250 hectares in two land grant areas managed by UPLB in the Sierra Madre Mountain Range.

In addition, 10 kilometers of road within the Mount Makiling Forest Reserve will be planted with species ideal for urban settings. Another 25,000 seedlings will also be cultivated for roadside planting in various parts of Laguna province.

(L-R) UPLB chancellor Jose V. Camacho Jr. and UPLB-CFNR dean Marlo D. Mendoza MDM, underscore the University's steadfast commitment as a designated Center of Excellence in Forestry Education, advancing the restoration of critical forest ecosystems nationwide through strategic and innovative partnerships

Roadside planting in the Mt. Makiling Georeserve will provide multiple benefits, including environmental, social, and economic advantages. In terms of environmental impact, it will lead to improved air and temperature quality, carbon sequestration, noise reduction, urban flood mitigation, pollination support, and urban wildlife habitat. From a social and economic perspective, it can improve recreational opportunities and mental wellbeing, lead to energy savings, and increase property values.

“Sierra Madre is one of our last frontiers when it comes to [our remaining] intact forests,” shared UPLB-CFNR Dean Marlo D. Mendoza, MDM. [This] is rich in terms of biodiversity [and is] very high in endemism, which means a lot of species that are in Sierra Madre can only be found there or [can be found in] the Philippines and not other parts of the world.”

Luzon’s backbone against natural hazards

The Sierra Madre mountain range, which spans approximately 600 kilometers from Cagayan to Quezon Province, is known as the “backbone of Luzon” and is home to lush forests and vital watersheds that support the nation’s diverse wildlife populations. In addition, it acts as a natural shield against typhoons coming from the Pacific, protecting the Philippines by weakening and redirecting storm winds before they reach inland areas.

The end goal of the UPLB and GCash reforestation initiative is to help restore and fortify parts of the UP Sierra Madre Land Grant. The trees planted aim to convert degraded lands (remnants of past logging, timber poaching, and unsustainable farming) into thriving ecosystems of tall native forest species that form a closed or semi-closed canopy.

Fundamental to the success of this program is UPLB’s sourcing process, which focuses on native tree species that are well-adapted to the local environment and support biodiversity. UPLB researchers have selected a diverse mix of native species, such as Mayapis, Apitong, White Lauan, Almon, and Palosapis, that can support canopy restoration while promoting ecological diversity.

Meanwhile, native tree species for urban areas— such as Salingogon, Katmon, Aunasin, and Pamitoyen have been selected based on tree architecture, height, climate adaptability, and the benefits offered, such as aesthetic values, shade, pollution reduction, and habitats for wildlife. To complete the project in the coming months, UPLB will also recruit the help of local communities to oversee the planting, care, monitoring, and evaluation activities thereafter.

By championing collaboration among scientists, organizations like GCash, and local communities, this partnership creates a holistic approach that addresses environmental challenges, enhances resilience, and turns residents into long-term environmental stewards. The program includes community-based monitoring to ensure survival rates and continuous ecological and social benefits.

“We are excited about this new partnership with GCash, as it allows us to explore the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of reforestation,” said Mendoza. “Together, we can implement UPLB’s proven methods to maximize benefits for both ecosystems and local communities.”

Through this partnership, GCash continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability. As a tech for good platform, we can bridge users with sustainability partners and environmental institutions, like UPLB, and contribute to real-world environmental efforts. CJ Alegre, GCash Head for Sustainability, added: “At GCash, we believe that technology can be a powerful tool for positive change.”

How to Make All Your #TravelGoals Come True This Year

Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore – these are just some of the top destinations of Pinoy travelers last year. Whether it's a quick getaway, an adventure abroad, or a return trip to your favorite country, making your #travelgoals a reality starts with good planning. 

With 2025 well underway and everyone eager to tick off the countries on their bucket lists, here are a few tips and tricks for a fun, stress-free, and memorable trip abroad while ensuring you always get the most out of your money.

Create a travel budget and track all your expenses 

It is so easy to get carried away by the sheer excitement of traveling abroad. This sometimes leads us to make expensive mistakes, like booking overpriced hotels, plotting too many expensive activities in your itinerary, or buying too many clothes and goodies that cause you to exceed your baggage allowance. 

While it’s great to splurge once in a while for a trip abroad, setting a budget can help you financially stay on track, and can help you prevent unexpected expenses. Who knows? You might just save enough to be able to go on another trip later in the year!

An easy way to keep an eye on your budget is by tracking all your expenses down in a notebook, an online spreadsheet, or an app – what matters is finding what works best to help you stay on top of your expenses so you can see where you can ease off of spending.

Research, research, and research

With a set budget in mind, your next planning focus would be finding the most ideal flights, accommodations, and tours. Now it’s time to do some research to find some options and see if they match up to your expectations. Researching for your trip can be as simple (and fun!) as reading blog posts and watching travel videos about your dream destination. You can also check out reviews of certain hotels, restaurants, and activities, to see if they’re worth booking or not.

Before you finalize anything, make sure you also take a look at online promos and discounts, because it’s usually cheaper to book in advance online, rather than when you get to your destination. Also, make sure the travel apps and websites you’ll be booking on are safe and legit!

Get exclusive deals with your GCash VISA Card

One way you can unlock exclusive travel deals is by paying with the GCash VISA Card. Available in 200+ countries and territories and over 80 million merchants, the GCash Card opens up endless possibilities - from the planning stages of your trip until you're at your destination. 

Using your GCash Card to pay for hotel bookings at Agoda gives you an exclusive 8% discount on hotel bookings. Lifestyle and travel content creator Kara Rodriguez knows all about this convenient deal. During her recent stay with her mom in Cebu, she was able to take advantage of this discount on her hotel booking which offered all the things she was looking for to really connect with her! Check out her vlog here, and remember that with smart planning and your GCash Card always on hand, you can secure deals just like Kara did.

Embed video: https://www.tiktok.com/@karaysabella/video/7450340865966460178?_t=ZS-8uamg3Xdhgt&_r=1

But that's not all! You can also book hotel stays with IHG and use your GCash Card for up to 20% off in participating hotels in Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Maldives, Laos, Japan, Micronesia, Australia, New Zealand, and South Pacific Islands! 

Enjoy your travel adventure

With your bookings finalized, time to pack your bags, grab your passport, and get your OOTDs ready. Take lots of photos and videos, check out your destination’s hottest food and culture spots, and make unforgettable memories. Most of all, don’t forget to bring the all-new VISA-powered GCash Card, with you for more convenient travels! 

Easily order one without the need for required documents through the GCash app, turn your #travelgoals into a reality! To learn more, visit GCash at www.new.gcash.com/services/cards. 

GJobs to offer thousands of career opportunities for Filipinos on Labor Day

GCash, the country’s leading mobile wallet and largest cashless ecosystem, together with its partner, PasaJob, the nation’s first referral-based jobs platform, will be hosting the GJobs Livestream. GCash and PasaJob are inviting all jobseekers this May 1, Labor Day, to connect with over 200 companies offering 13,000 job opportunities across various industries—all through the convenience of their smartphones.

There will also be corresponding physical booths for walk-in GJobs registrants and job seekers in Pasay City (Brgy. 194, Zone 20 covered court) and during the Quezon City Public Employment Service Office’s (PESO) Labor Day Job Fair, to be held at the MICE Center of the Quezon City Hall compound. 

GJobs—a job platform feature within GCash—offers a convenient and accessible way for job seekers to explore various opportunities listed by PasaJobs for meaningful employment. This inclusive innovation, leveraging the reach of GCash and PasaJob's credible network of employment opportunities, sets a new standard for job market processes in the digital age.

“At GCash, our mission of ‘Finance for All’ means providing responsive digital financial services for Filipinos. This extends beyond digital transactions; we also enable Filipinos to access meaningful employment opportunities that improve their livelihood,” said chief operating officer Barbie Dapul of G-Xchange Inc., the mobile e-wallet operator of GCash.

GJobs Livestream: An opportunity to best match skills.

The GJobs Livestream is designed to facilitate connections between job seekers and verified employers, offering job postings that can best match skills, experience, and availability. The event is part of the response of GCash to the country’s unemployment rate of 3.8% and underemployment rate of 10.1% (as of the February 2025 Labor Force Survey)— figures that GJobs, PasaJob, and its thousands of listed job vacancies are looking to help ease.

The livestream is open to all verified GCash users who want to jumpstart their careers or seek additional sources of income, including non-college graduates looking to improve their livelihoods, as well as experienced professionals seeking new opportunities and career-shifters exploring other industries. Featured fields include logistics, services, construction, retail, and business process outsourcing (BPO). 

In addition, persons with disabilities will also be able to access job listings from the Philippine Inclusion Network, which is committed to working with companies to create barrier-free workplaces.

Participants in the GJobs Livestream are encouraged to apply during the May 1 event, as companies are encouraged to start screening applications on the day itself.

Filipinos’ trusted, inclusive platform for credible jobs 

GJobs—operated through PasaJob's system of employer vetting, job post verification, and network management—eliminates the three biggest barriers to better employment: limited options, time-consuming searches, and uncertainty about legitimacy. Through the digital job platform, the established reach of GCash has once again turned smartphones into powerful tools for economic advancement of Filipino families.

The GJobs platform also allows for potential incentives on both the applicant's and referrer’s sides. Referral fees and hiring bonuses are disbursed to referrers’ GCash wallets after a successful hire.

Dapul added, “With GJobs, we are making employment more accessible by connecting job seekers with potential employers. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to expanding the platform to help more Filipinos find opportunities that align with their skills and aspirations.” 

Since its launch in September 2023, GJobs has registered 3 million users, facilitated 1 million job referrals, and fielded 417,000 job applications.

“Only 19 months since its launch on GCash, GJobs, powered by PasaJob, has onboarded 3 million registered users—a continuously growing user base that demands a solution for access to more jobs and earning opportunities. We hope that GJobs not only becomes a doorway for these opportunities but also serves as a platform to gain insight on the Philippine employment and livelihood industry as a whole,” said PasaJob CEO and CTO Eddie Ybañez.

For more information on GJobs, visit https://www.gcash.com. 

*Referral fees are disbursed to the referrer’s GCash account based on the employer’s payout schedule, which may vary, ranging from 30 days to 6 months following a successful hire.

Tap into the Future: GCash and Mastercard bring the future of payments with Tap n' Pay

 

In a move to once again transform the way Filipinos experience cashless transactions, GCash, the leading finance super app in the Philippines, and global technology company Mastercard have teamed up to introduce Tap n’ Pay – a contactless payment solution designed to make everyday transactions faster and more convenient.

As digital payments continue to shape modern lifestyles, consumers seek seamless and hassle-free ways to transact. Tap n’ Pay meets this demand by enabling users to make purchases effortlessly—simply by tapping their NFC-enabled Android phone on a compatible point-of-sale (POS) terminal that accepts card payments. With every tap, consumers take a step toward greater convenience, security, and efficiency, transforming daily transactions into an empowering experience tailored to their evolving needs. 

This collaboration between GCash and Mastercard enhances the digital payment landscape nationwide. By integrating GCash’s accessibility with Mastercard’s extensive, trusted payments network, Tap n’ Pay provides Filipinos a smooth and secure payment experience for both users and merchants, allowing the users to make contactless purchases via the GCash app with just a tap – wherever Mastercard is accepted in the Philippines.

“This collaboration further solidifies our commitment to offering Filipinos convenient and secure cashless payment solutions, making everyday transactions easier and more seamless,” said Ren-Ren Reyes, president and CEO of G-XChange, Inc. the mobile wallet operator of GCash.

Currently, Tap n’ Pay is available for local transactions, with plans for international availability soon. This initiative is part of GCash’s ongoing efforts to improve financial access and convenience for Filipinos, whether at home or abroad. With Mastercard, users can tap to pay at merchants nationwide that accept contactless payments. This enhanced feature simplifies payments delivering a faster and more convenient cashless payment experience. 

Simon Calasanz, country manager, Philippines, Mastercard added, “Mastercard is thrilled to collaborate with GCash, powering Tap n’ Pay with NFC technology to introduce a new avenue for contactless digital payments in the Philippines. The collaboration advances Mastercard's commitment to providing greater choice for cardholders and enabling a more frictionless payment experience. Now, all GCash Wallet app users can simply activate Tap n’ Pay in their GCash app and pay by just tapping their phones wherever Mastercard is accepted — making transactions faster, easier, and secure.”  

At the core of this seamless and secure payment experience is OpenFabric, GCash’s trusted partner for digital payments. OpenFabric plays a crucial role in enabling the provisioning of Mastercard’s tokens and managing the transaction gateway between GCash and Mastercard merchants. This technology ensures that GCash users enjoy a smooth, secure, and effortless Tap n’ Pay experience at Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals across the Philippines. 

Users must have an active internet or cellular data connection to ensure secure and uninterrupted transactions with every tap. 

With an extensive range of digital payment solutions, GCash and its partners remain committed to driving financial inclusion and innovation in the country providing millions of Filipinos with convenient financial services.  

For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.

The New Rules of Summer - Light, Effortless, and Cashless

 Today's travels are defined by seamless experiences. More booking platforms exist for finding the most affordable rates for flights and stays. There are more ways to pay; no more frantic ATM searches in an unfamiliar destination or awkward bill-splitting moments with your friends. Now, it's all about making every experience count with more ease and a lot more room for spontaneous fun. And that's exactly how GCash is rewriting the rules of summer this year! 

As the #1 finance app in the Philippines, GCash goes beyond payments and makes sure your dream summer happens thanks to its products and services. Whether you’re heading to new countries, indulging in local delicacies, or gearing up for a road trip, here’s why GCash is the best way to pay for every summer adventure. 

Rule #1: Travel light anywhere with no hassle 

Traveling can be stressful enough without the added worry of carrying wads of cash, looking for the best money changer, calculating every peso spent, or dreading extra charges on your credit card. The worst feeling is realizing you’ve been overcharged, or even worse, losing cash altogether. 

For GCash, rule #1 of dream summers is that it’s light anywhere you go, offering a solution that lets you leave those worries behind. With just a tap or swipe of your GCash Card, you can easily hop on the train, grab a bite to eat at your favorite cafe, and shop at local stores – all at real-time, low exchange rates. And the best part is, there are no surprise charges to worry about! 

Now what happens if you come across a place that doesn’t accept card payments? No problem! Through the Global Pay feature of GCash, you can still pay seamlessly via QR directly from your app while exploring your dream destination - now nothing stands in your way! Plus, every transaction unlocks exclusive discounts, amazing perks and unforgettable experiences. 

Rule #2: Last minute plans? Always a yes 

With more people opting for DIY summer trips, paying for a last-minute trip or a spontaneous getaway doesn’t need to be stressful. Sure, we’ve all been there - trying to grab a limited time flight deal or a massive hotel price drop. But then you realize you can only pay with a credit card and panic sets in when you don’t have the option to pay right away! 

With your GCash e-wallet, you can pay instantly, without scrambling for another payment method or having to borrow someone else’s card (and risking surprise fees yet again). Smooth, stress-free travel planning awaits when you use GCash Webpay to pay straight from your GCash wallet with just a few taps. 

Accepted across online merchants like Klook, Agoda, or Philippine Airlines, GCash not only lets you pay easily but also unlocks exclusive deals for your dream summer. No borrowing, no delays, no surprise fees. Just smooth, stress-free travel planning, paid straight from your GCash Wallet. Finally, you can score the best deals without the hassle.  

Rule #3: Instant insurance, no worries 

Travel insurance used to feel like an afterthought. It’s complicated to apply for, and in the rush of planning a trip, it's easy to neglect. But travel is truly unpredictable. Flight cancellations, lost luggage, or getting sick abroad can turn your trip upside down, sometimes leaving you with unwelcome additional expenses.

With GInsure, GCash makes it easy to secure travel insurance with just a few taps. GInsure Travel Protection offers you instant coverage for unexpected flight delays, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and more. It’s affordable, requires no paperwork or lengthy approvals; just peace of mind so you can focus on enjoying your dream summer. 

Rule #4: Treat yourself without guilt 

It’s your dream summer, so it shouldn’t come with any feelings of guilt! Forget settling for less or compromising your comfort on cheap flights or accommodations just because you can’t afford to pay everything upfront. With GCash, you can treat yourself without guilt with flexible payment options! 

Pay for your summer expenses in easy installments for up to 24 months with zero down payment with GGives, and book that dream trip without the stress. So go ahead, lock in that dream trip, focus on the experience and not the expenses with a splurge you deserve! 

Discover the best way to pay this summer 

Define your dream summer with these new rules with GCash, and leave the stress of traveling behind with the best way to pay! Now you can enjoy the freedom of an easier, more seamless, always secure, and effortlessly cashless season. Download the GCash app today. Your dream summer awaits!

How To Live Your Best Summer Ever, According To Heart Evangelista

Summer is in full swing, ushering a season of relaxing vacations and exciting getaways. While we all have our dream summer bucket lists, we could all use a tip or two to make it the best season yet. Count on no less than international fashion and lifestyle icon Heart Evangelista on how to make it your best summer ever. Heart, who was just launched as the face of the summer campaign of GCash, shares stories and snippets of how she plans to live out her dream summer. From the perfect day in one of her favorite cities, her tried and tested travel hacks, and even her newest discovery on the best way to pay when traveling, Heart spills it all.

“Summers are always so special to me. Ever since I was a kid, it’s the season I look forward to the most because summer basically meant traveling and making new memories,” she shares.

The actress, who recently dominated Paris and Milan Fashion Weeks, reveals that her dream summer destination this year is not that far from home: “Japan—I love it this season. It’s also a special place that I love visiting with my husband and our kids. My sisters and I also have a lot of great memories there.”

Heart fondly recalls all the trips she’s had in Tokyo, and she has already created the perfect itinerary in the city that she wants everyone to experience: “I’ll start with sushi in Omotesando, then coffee in a quaint cafe in the area, followed by hours of vintage designer shopping. I’ve found so many treasures at great prices over the years—from bags, shoes, jackets, and jewelry. I’ll end the day getting lost in Don Quijote buying anik-anik, then eat snacks at a convenience store before calling it a day. I’m getting excited just thinking about it!”

Photo taken by: Nikko Mendoza

Heart Evangelista on a night out in Paris during Fashion Week 2025

As someone who travels so often, jet-setting between Manila and wherever the world calls her, we can already assume Heart already has her pre-travel preps down pat. And, of course, she does. Weeks prior to a trip, she has the important things—we’re talking outfits and shopping—planned out in her head. Depending on her mood for the season, she’ll put together looks ahead of time and spend at least a day packing and planning, shopping budget included, of course. “I’m better at budgeting now! I’ll set a budget for the trip, transfer it to my GCash account, and use my GCash Card for the trip. That way, I have better control of my spending. It’s so convenient,” she shares.

In the recently launched GCash film starring the actress, Heart dreams up a summer trip that feels like a montage of her travels in real life. One minute, she’s shopping for a bag in Japan, and the next thing, she was ordering a meyngo shake in sunny Boracay, all with her trusty travel companion, her GCash Card.

Heart recalls a time when GCash proved its convenience even more during one of her trips: “I was shopping in an airport abroad when I found a lipstick that I knew a dear friend had been looking for. It was so late already in Manila but I called her and she got so excited and asked me to buy all the stocks they had, nag-GCash na lang siya on the spot, and that was it! I tapped my GCash Card na, and the exchange rate was also really good.” She also added that she and her team rely heavily on their GCash Card when abroad to be stress-free: “Cabs, booking cars, snacks, shopping, everything!”

For a fuss-free trip, Heart encourages GCash users to maximize the features and services on the app they could be missing out on. While most users are only familiar with the convenience of sending money and paying basic bills on the app, GCash actually has a wealth of services that can save you precious time and money, especially when traveling. For one, you don’t have to worry about finding money changers abroad, as your GCash Card can be used to withdraw money from ATMs at competitive exchange rates and functions as a debit card for ease of transactions. “The GCash Card is the best way to pay abroad for me. Low forex and service fees plus no hidden charges—life-changing, really,” Heart says.

TheGlobalPay feature of GCash also provides another perk, allowing users to easily pay via QR in selected merchants and unlocking rewards and discounts abroad. (Tip: You can score 10% off in Japan when you use Scan To Pay in select stores until April 30, 2025.)

One other feature Heart strongly recommends is GInsure: “Travel insurance is truly important—you never know what’s going to happen. A lot of people forget about this, but this is a tip I always give for a stress-free trip. Once you have insurance, you can have the best summer,” she says. With GInsure, users can seamlessly purchase travel insurance for international trips on the spot – covering trip cancellations, lost baggage, flight delays, medical emergencies, and more – for as low as P350 and with coverage of up to P2.5 million.

When asked how she thinks summer trips can be both memorable and rewarding, Heart says not to forget to live in the moment. “Enjoy the moment when you’re finally on the trip you planned and saved up for. Remember, it’s a summer trip to make memories and milestones—take lots of photos and yes, reward yourself with good food and indulge in a bit of shopping with GCash, I’m serious!”

The world is truly Heart’s runway, and she’s ready to make her dream summer a reality. “Elevated basics, understated elegance is my mood board for this summer trip. I’ll pair my neutral outfits with an interesting bag in tow—with my GCash Card inside, of course,” she quips.

Photo taken by: Nikko Mendoza

Heart Evangelista in Paris during Fashion Week 2025 

Just like Heart, we can all make our dream summers happen with a little help from GCash. Whether you’re traveling locally, abroad or just cozying up in hotels for staycations, GCash can be your reliable companion. Enjoy cashless transactions with your GCash Card, unlock perks with Global Pay, and stay safe and secure with GInsure. Indulging in some summer shopping? Make payments lighter with GGives. The possibilities are endless.

Check out Heart’s dream summer film on GCash’s social media pages here, and download the GCash app to discover how you can make it a summer to remember.

GCash brings digital US dollars to Filipinos through Circle’s USDC on GCrypto

GCash user navigates the app which enables access to various digital financial services.

GCash, the leading mobile wallet in the Philippines with millions of users to date, is offering Circle’s USDC, a fully reserved digital dollar, to millions of Filipinos. This collaboration allows GCash users to receive, buy, hold, or transact with USDC within their GCrypto wallets, providing a secure and accessible digital dollar for financial transactions and savings.

USDC is a fully reserved digital dollar 100% backed by highly liquid cash and cash-equivalent assets and redeemable 1:1 for US dollars. The reserves for USDC are held at regulated financial institutions with published third-party monthly attestations, providing a high level of transparency for GCash users. With USDC, GCash users can access a stable digital dollar that helps provide stability while facilitating seamless and cost-effective transactions in an evolving digital economy.

“The integration of USDC is a significant step in enhancing financial inclusion in the Philippines,” said GCash group head of wealth management Arjun Varma. “By offering easy access to digital dollars, we empower our users with a stable and globally recognized financial asset.”

“At Circle, we believe expanding access to digital financial tools drives economic empowerment,” said Yam Ki Chan, vice president, Asia Pacific for Circle. “We are excited that GCash is enabling millions of Filipinos to participate in the digital economy with confidence and security.”

Acquiring USDC is seamless — GCash users simply navigate to GCrypto within their GCash app, select ‘USDC’, and complete the conversion with their GCash balance. For more information, visit www.gcash.com or follow GCash on Facebook: @gcashofficial.

Dahil deserve mo magbakasyon: Book now, pay later, and get the best deals

Summer has officially arrived, and while the heat can be overwhelming, planning your dream vacation shouldn’t add to the stress—especially when finding the budget to book that much-awaited and well-deserved trip. Whether you're planning a fun getaway with your barkada or a relaxing family vacation, you can make your summer travel dreams a reality all through the help of your finance super app.

 

GCash offers its installment product GGives and credit line GCredit to help you travel now and pay later. GGives allows eligible users to pay for big-ticket items of up to PHP 125,000 with zero downpayment, allowing you to book now and spread out your installments across 24 months. If you prefer the flexibility of a credit line, GCredit provides an instant credit line of up to PHP 50,000, depending on your eligibility.

If your vacation plans aren’t set in stone yet, GCash empowers you to go on that well-deserved getaway without the upfront cost so you don’t have to wait or sacrifice for your dream vacation. To make your getaway a reality, here are some of the services you can pay for using GGives and GCredit:

• Land and Sea Transportation: Pay for bus tickets using GGives and GCredit on Victory Liner, Partas, and SolidNorth, and for road trips, use toll road RFID services like AutoSweep and EasyTrip. For sea travel, book tickets with 2GO Travel, OceanJet, SuperCat, 12GO, and FastCat. Tickets can be purchased directly through the merchants' portals or via biyaheroes.com, iwantseats.com, and bustickets.ph, where you’ll be able to pay later using GGives and GCredit.

• Air Travel: For air travel, GCash makes flying a breeze with its partnerships with Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, and Philippine Airlines. GCash makes planning domestic travel easy with instant credit and flexible payment options, allowing you to book now and pay later with GGives and GCredit. 

• Accommodations: Finding the perfect place to stay is easy when you can book through trusted partners like Agoda and Airbnb, and pay in installments using GGives. Agoda offers a variety of hotels and resorts to suit your needs, while Airbnb provides unique vacation rentals for a more personalized experience, catering to different preferences and budgets.
  
  

• Activities: Make your trip even more memorable by booking exciting experiences through Klook, and pay later using GCredit or GGives. Whether you're looking for guided tours, thrilling adventures, or cultural experiences, Klook offers a wide selection to make your vacation even more memorable.

Get Exclusive Travel Deals with GCredit and GGives

To make your vacation even more rewarding, GCredit and GGives offer exclusive travel promos that help you make the most out of your getaway. Whether you're heading home for a long weekend or planning that dream vacation, GCash not only simplifies the entire travel process but also makes it easy to find the best deals.

Be sure to follow GCash’s official channels and watch out for upcoming promos designed to make your travel experience even better.

If you’re eligible, you can activate GGives by going to "Borrow" then clicking "GGives". Fill out the quick application form, and once you're activated, you'll see your available credit limit! Note that your offer is subject to regular evaluation. To activate GCredit, go to "Borrow" then click "GCredit." Fill out your details, complete your registration, and submit to view your credit limit.

If you still find yourself hesitating because of travel costs, think again—dahil tuloy ang travel goals! With GGives and GCredit, you can travel now and pay later, making your well-deserved break more attainable than ever. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an international trip, GCash’s convenient services and exclusive promos make it easy to plan, book, and enjoy a stress-free vacation. Kaya Pala with GGives and GCredit!

Access GCredit and GGives through your GCash dashboard or find them under “Borrow.” No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. 

CICC Chief to speak at historic Global Anti-Scam Summit in London

The  international standards used in fighting cybercrime set by the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) will be showcased in the historic Global Anti-Scam Summit (GASS) in London late this month. 

Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center of the Philippines awarded as runner up for Best Scam Fighting Organisation of the Year by Global Anti-Scam Alliance.

CICC Executive Director Alexander K. Ramos, a runner-up in the prestigious Scam Fighter of the Year 2025 edition given by the Netherlands-based Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA), was invited as a keynote speaker at the GASS on March 26 and 27 to discuss the experience of CICC in the prevention and suppression of cybercrime. 

Netherlands-based Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA) has recognized the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) and its Executive Director Alexander K. Ramos among the finalists in the prestigious Scam Fighter of the Year 2025 edition. 

GASA officially welcomed Ramos yesterday as a member of the GASA Advisory Board for his “extensive experience in cybercrime investigation and policy enforcement.” 

“Ramos brings valuable expertise in strengthening digital security and combating financial fraud. His leadership will help drive GASA’s global mission to protect individuals and businesses from evolving scam threats,” GASA said in its official social media page and website. 

The CICC  was also  a runner-up in the institution category of the Scam Fighter of the Year 2025 edition for the various measures and engagement of different sectors in fighting cybercrime in the country and  highlighted that more than 10,000 government personnel and law enforcers  trained by the CICC to fight cybercrime. 

Ramos welcomed the GASA recognition and his appointment to the GASA Advisory Board as affirmation of the global standards that he and his institution have set in fighting cybercrime. 

CICC executive director Alexander Ramos is recognized as a runner up for Best Scam Fighting Individual awards and will be a guest speaker at Global Anti-Scam Summit.

“Aside from following international benchmarks and standards in tools and trainings, we have also introduced other innovations and proof of concept to protect Filipinos from scams and threat actors,” Ramos said. 

The goal of the historic London Summit is to bring governments, consumers and financial authorities, law enforcement, brand protection agencies and cybersecurity companies together to share knowledge and define joint actions to protect consumers from getting scammed. 

“As scams become more sophisticated and transnational, we too shall do our best to introduce more innovations and engage the Whole-of-Society to ensure a safe cyberspace,” Ramos added. 

Aside from conducting education campaigns and active coordination with other agencies, CICC has also been accepting cybercrime complaints through its Inter-Agency Response Center Hotline 1326.  Though its round-the-clock operation, the agency was able to receive a total of 10,000 cybercrime complaints in 2024 including financial losses of around P198 million.