GCash bags multiple global awards for people-first culture, purpose-driven leadership, and digital finance

(L-R) GCash HR Business Partnering Managers Mayee Nisperos and Mabel Ogoshi; Learning Operations Manager Christine Fajardo; HR Transformation and Service Delivery Head Marjorie Carbonell; Employee Experience and Communications Head Arvin Crisol; AVP for Total Rewards Chavi Hilari; People Analytics Manager Joanna Torres; HR Business Partnering Head Seab Zantua; and HR Transformation Manager Franz Martin.

Fueled by a strong focus on people, innovation, and purpose, GCash recently earned multiple global recognitions in 2025. The Philippines’ leading finance super app achieved a remarkable three-peat as Gold Employer of the Year at the Stevie® Awards for Great Employers. It also brought home six additional wins at the Stevie® Awards, made its debut at the Economic Times Human Capital Awards in Southeast Asia, bagged two awards at the Philippine Quill Awards, and clinched three major honors at the World Business Outlook Awards.

Together, these milestones reflect the growing influence of GCash as a people-powered and purpose-driven organization shaping both the fintech industry and the future of work.

Raising the Bar for Workplace Excellence in Asia

(L-R) GCash Head of Talent Acquisition Joey Agarao and Employer Marketing Manager Jill Ison receive Emerging HR Leader Awards at the Economic Times Human Capital Awards Southeast Asia in Singapore.

GCash continues to show that investing in its people and culture creates lasting impact. By prioritizing employee well-being and harnessing digital innovation, the company has strengthened its position as one of the region’s most admired employers.

This commitment was recognized at the HR Asia Awards 2025, where GCash earned its third consecutive title as one of the Best Companies to Work for in Asia. The company also received the HR Asia Tech Empowerment Award, showcasing its innovative use of technology—from Glean for knowledge management, GitHub Copilot for developers, and Gemini for AI-assisted tasks, to the Gen AI-powered AGA 2.0 HR helpdesk—enhancing both employee experience and operational efficiency.

Showcasing Filipino HR Leadership on the Global Stage

On the international front, GCash demonstrates how Filipino HR practices can excel within global standards. Its efforts to strengthen leadership, empower employees, and introduce forward-looking programs have made waves beyond the Philippines.

At the 2025 Stevie® Awards for Great Employers, GCash Chief People Officer Robert Gonzales was named Silver Stevie® Winner for Chief Human Resource Officer (CHRO) of the Year—a recognition that underscores the vision and leadership driving GCash’s people agenda.

In addition, GCash won four distinctions, including Gold for Employer of the Year in Financial Services for the third consecutive time. The company was also honored for its initiatives in HR technology, leadership development, and corporate learning.

Recognizing Excellence in Employee Engagement

Building on its commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and connected workplace, the Employee Experience and Communications Team was recognized at the Philippine Quill Awards for its excellence in Diversity and Inclusion for the True You campaign. This initiative celebrates and empowers employees to embrace their authentic selves while promoting a culture of inclusion.

The team was also honored for Excellence in Communications for the Web for GDispatch, a web-based internal communications platform that delivers timely updates and resources to keep employees informed, connected, and engaged across the organization.

Spotlighting Next-Generation HR Leaders in Southeast Asia

The impact of GCash is also seen in the rise of its future HR leaders. By encouraging growth and creating opportunities, the company continues to nurture the next wave of talent, strengthening its people-first culture.

This was recognized at the Economic Times Human Capital Awards Southeast Asia in Singapore, where GCash earned multiple honors, including Gold and Silver Awards for Emerging HR Leaders—awarded to GCash Employer Marketing Manager Jill Ison and Head of Talent Acquisition Joey Agarao—alongside distinctions in reward strategy, wellness initiatives, and employer branding.

These recognitions shine a spotlight on the evolving practices and leaders that will carry the organization forward.

Building on its commitment to employee wellness and excellence, GCash was also named Grand Winner for Wellness Company of the Year at the 2025 Asia CEO Awards.

This award affirms the company’s dedication to creating a workplace where well-being, growth, and genuine connection are at the heart of its business. Through holistic programs such as Alagang GCash, the company champions employee health, mental wellness, and work-life integration—empowering every employee to thrive both professionally and personally.

Further, GCash’s people-first culture, inclusive environment, and continuous investment in leadership development have strengthened engagement and retention, creating a workplace where everyone can succeed and grow together.

Together with the GCash Barkada, GCash continues to redefine workplace excellence and set a new standard for how organizations can genuinely take care of their people while driving meaningful impact for the nation.

Driving Financial Inclusion and Innovation Across APAC

Beyond its people and communications practices, GCash reinforces its efforts to make financial services accessible to all, transforming how millions of Filipinos save, borrow, invest, and transact daily.

At the 2025 World Business Outlook Awards, GCash earned three distinctions:
Best Cashless Mobile Financial Platform, Best Fintech Solutions Provider, and Best Finance Super App.
These accolades underscore the platform’s role in promoting financial inclusion while strengthening the Philippines’ profile in the global digital economy.

From nurturing inclusive workplaces to championing purpose-driven initiatives and exploring new frontiers in financial innovation, GCash continues to evolve with a steady focus on shaping the future of both fintech and people development.

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

PNP-ACG ramps up cyber defense training with leading PH finance super app

(L-R) GCash public affairs head Mabel M. Niala; external affairs head Jerome C. Lantin; and chief information and security officer Miguel Geronilla, with PNP-ACG director PBGen Bernard Yang, and chief investigative officer PCol Jay D Guillermo

The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) has strengthened its drive against digital financial crimes with the launch of its Cybersecurity and Fintech Handbook and the renewal of its partnership with GCash. The event also introduced the Scam Assistance Hub, a project aimed at facilitating the quick and easy filing of scam reports through a simple QR Code. These major initiatives are targeted to complement law enforcement efforts in addressing emerging cyber fraud and scams for more timely and coordinated action. 

The PNP-ACG and GCash renewed their Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), first signed in 2022, which established a framework for cooperation on cybersecurity awareness, capability-building, and information sharing.

This reaffirms the shared commitment of both institutions to handle financial cybercrimes and to strengthen consumer protection amid the continued growth of digital payments.

“Financial technology continues to evolve, and with it, the methods used by cybercriminals,” said Miguel Geronilla, chief information and security officer at GCash. “We at GCash are honored to support the PNP-ACG in enhancing the capabilities of law enforcers through education. By sharing fintech-specific use cases, we aim to help build a more informed response force against digital financial threats.”

Supporting cyber defense frontliners across the country

The Cybersecurity and Fintech Handbook was created in partnership with GCash to complement the efforts of the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit (RACU) and ACG personnel by outlining key trends and schemes in financial cybercrime. Specifically, the handbook features modules on cybersecurity frameworks, cybercrime laws, financial investigations, fintech systems, and cryptocurrency fundamentals, ensuring officers are better equipped to address today’s digital crime challenges.

“These initiatives are a collective step forward in our continuing effort to protect Filipinos in the digital space,” said Brig. Gen. Bernard R. Yang, director of the PNP-ACG. “Through strategic collaborations and timely learning tools, we are building a law enforcement force that is ready to address today’s emerging cyber threats.”

Other key officials present at the ceremonial event were PNP ACG chief investigative officer PCol Jay D. Guillermo, GCash chief information and security officer Miguel Geronilla, GCash public affairs manager Mabel M. Niala, and GCash external affairs manager Jerome C. Lantin.

The handbook will be rolled out to regional units via virtual assemblies and video modules, aligning with the PNP’s ongoing modernization strategy and the national government’s National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP) 2023–2028. Developed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the NCSP sets the policy direction for a secure and resilient cyberspace in the Philippines.

This joint effort also comes on the heels of the recently released Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA), a new law passed in July 2024 aimed at curbing online scams and fraudulent financial activities.

The AFASA targets key financial crimes such as social engineering scams and money muling, while also empowering institutions like the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to investigate suspicious financial activities. The Cybersecurity and Fintech Handbook seeks to help reinforce these regulatory updates by helping frontline police better understand and enforce provisions under AFASA.

Reporting scams made easier via QR

The event also marked the introduction of the Scam Assistance Hub (SAH), a new platform that simplifies scam reporting for the public.

The SAH QR code connects users to the GCash SAH website, a platform where victims of online scams can file police reports, receive assistance, and process documentation for claims under GCash’s Express Send Scam Insurance. 

This initiative ensures a more coordinated response between the PNP-ACG and GCash in handling fraud complaints and supporting affected users.

Building a future-ready police force

These efforts complement the PNP-ACG’s broader public education and prevention campaigns designed to build digital literacy among both law enforcement and the general public.

“Technology will continue to evolve, and criminals will continue to adapt,” Brig. Gen. Yang added. “These initiatives will help in the long journey of strengthening our cyber defenses. What matters is that we are moving forward together with stronger capabilities, a clearer direction, and a deeper resolve.”

The group reminded that while the SAH QR Code is still being prepared for deployment,  any incidents of cybercrime and fraud can still be reported via the PNP-ACG’s hotline 1326 or via GCash’s app Help Center or through any of the official customer support channels. The public may also follow PNP-ACG’s official social media pages for updates on its ongoing efforts to fight cybercrime and promote digital security nationwide.

UnionBank and INSEAD Launch ASCEND Program to Shape Next Generation Wealth Advisory

 UnionBank—recognized as the Best Wealth Management Bank in the Philippines by The Asian Banker—has recently partnered with INSEAD, a global leader in business education, to launch the ASCEND Program. This strategic learning initiative is designed to enhance the capabilities of the bank’s Relationship Managers (RMs) across Wealth Management, Private Banking, and Retail Banking.

The partnership was formalized through a ceremonial signing led by Ana Aboitiz Delgado, President and CEO of UnionBank, and Prof. Sameer Hasija, Dean of INSEAD Asia Campus and Executive Education. The event marks the beginning of a multi-year collaboration that reflects UnionBank’s bold, forward-looking approach to developing world-class banking talent.

Joining Prof. Hasija from INSEAD were Mr. Karthik Rajaraman, Senior Director, Corporate Partnerships, and Mr. VJ Posadas, Director, Corporate Partnerships. Representing UnionBank’s senior leadership team were Ms. Michelle Rubio, Chief Human Resource Officer; Mr. Manoj Varma, Consumer Banking Center Head; Mr. Gauraw Srivastava, Wealth Management Head; and Mr. Gautam Sharma, Wealth Sales Network Head.

 The ASCEND Program is a transformative learning initiative that aims to equip UnionBank’s top-performing Relationship Managers with global insights and advanced skills in macroeconomics, market dynamics, behavioral economics, and emerging trends in wealth management.

“Today marks the beginning of a meaningful partnership—one that reflects our deep commitment to investing in our people and shaping the future of banking,” said Ana Aboitiz Delgado, UnionBank President and CEO. “At UnionBank, we believe that excellence in client service begins with excellence in talent. That’s why we are focused on building the best-skilled Relationship Managers in the Philippines—professionals who are not only technically capable, but also deeply attuned to the needs, ambitions, and goals of our clients.”

“When an organization shares the DNA of learning and calls its learning service provider a partner, you know that this mindset runs deep,” shared Prof. Sameer Hasija, Dean of INSEAD Asia Campus and Executive Education. “It’s exciting to see the real potential for impact that a collaboration like this can bring.”

Under the program’s first phase, selected Relationship Managers underwent a two-day intensive training conducted by INSEAD faculty. Future phases will expand the program’s reach and integrate digital learning modules covering topics such as digital currencies, tokenization, and artificial intelligence, ensuring UnionBank’s advisors remain at the forefront of global financial innovation.

UnionBank’s partnership with INSEAD marks a major step toward redefining wealth advisory in the Philippines. At the heart of this initiative is a bold vision: to transform client relationships by positioning advisors not just as bankers, but as trusted, forward-thinking professionals who continuously learn, adapt, and evolve to serve their clients with deeper insight and expertise.

 UnionBank places a strong emphasis on continuous learning and expert-led advisory by spotlighting its Relationship Managers (RMs) as key drivers of its high tech–high touch approach. The Beyond the Graph video series highlights how RMs blend data-driven insights with advanced technology to deliver personalized strategies—while maintaining the human connection that clients value. The ASCEND Program builds on this approach, equipping advisors to go beyond the numbers and provide meaningful, tailored guidance rooted in both expertise and empathy.

 This strategic collaboration underscores UnionBank’s global outlook and its unwavering commitment to being the advisor of choice. By investing in the continuous growth and development of its people, UnionBank reinforces its reputation as a trusted steward of client wealth—equipped to navigate today’s complex financial landscape with both confidence and care.

Only Maya Gives You the Power to Save Your Favorite Housemate in PBB Celebrity Collab 2.0 Edition

After a successful run of the last Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) Celebrity Collab Edition, Maya—the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines—is back inside Kuya’s house. With a new batch of Gen Z Kapamilya and Kapuso housemates, fresh collab twists, and iconic moments unfolding every week, the magic of the PBB Celebrity Collab 2.0 Edition is stronger than ever. Returning as this season’s official voting partner, Maya gives Mayamayans the power to save their favorite housemate in just a few taps. 

  

Whether you're a loyal stan, a silent voter, or a full-on fandom commander, Maya makes it easier and smarter to go all out for your fave. 

Your Vote, Supercharged 

Mayamayans can level up their voting power with exclusive perks—like referral rewards and extra funds from their Maya Savings interest earnings. First time using Maya? Get 100% cashback on your first vote!  Share your Maya invite code and earn as much as ₱15,000 from successful referrals so you and your friends can go full force to save your chosen Housemate. 

Voting Made Easy 

No complicated steps here. Just open the Maya app, tap the PBB icon, choose your Housemate, and pick your vote package. That’s it. Whether you’re backing your favorite Kapamilya or Kapuso Housemate, Maya puts real voting power in your hands.  

More Than a Vote—It’s a Movement 

Mayamayans can even use their Maya Savings interest earnings to support their favorite Housemates. With Maya, everyday transactions—like paying bills, buying coffee, or sending money—can earn up to 15% interest p.a., credited daily, giving you extra funds to vote when it matters most. 

Don’t miss PBB Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0, airing every weeknight at 9:40 PM, Saturdays at 6:15 PM, and Sundays at 10:05 PM on GMA.  You can also catch every episode online via Pinoy Big Brother’s YouTube page, GMA Pinoy TV Channel, Kapuso Stream, Kapamilya Online Live, and iWantTFC. The all-access stream is also available on GMANETWORK.COM and IWANT. 

 

Download the Maya app now, vote smart, and start your #SaveWithMaya journey today! To know more about this exciting collab, visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor.  

PNP ACG, CICC, GCash remind users to stay alert vs scams ahead of Undas 2025

As Filipinos prepare to head home to honor their departed loved ones this Undas, GCash reminds everyone to stay alert—not just on the road, but also online. With increased activity during the holidays, scammers often take advantage of users through text and chat messages that pretend to be from official GCash channels.

“As we commemorate this season of remembering our departed loved ones, digital safety remains a top priority. GCash continues to strengthen its systems and educate users to recognize and avoid scams, especially spoofing,” said Miguel Geronilla, GCash chief information security officer.

Be informed of scam tactics

Scammers are very cunning and will employ different ways to deceive people. One of the common scams to be alert to is spoofing—a type of online scam where fraudsters disguise their identity to make messages, emails, or calls appear as if they’re coming from trusted sources like GCash or other official institutions. 

Watch out for spoofed messages

These messages may look official, but the goal is to trick users into clicking on malicious links or sharing sensitive information such as OTPs, MPINs, or account details. Never click suspicious links or share personal details like your OTP, MPIN, or account credentials.

Be alert against fake pages and impersonators

Some spoofing attempts come from fake GCash Facebook pages or Messenger accounts designed to look real. Check for the verified blue checkmark and report suspicious accounts. The only official page is GCash Official.

Never share your MPIN or OTP

Fraudsters may pose as GCash agents offering “account verification” or “cashback.” GCash will never ask for your MPIN, OTP, or personal details. Sharing these gives scammers access to your account. Always double-check before responding to any message.

Remember: GCash will never send links via SMS, email, or chat apps. Only transact through the official GCash app or verified GCash channels on Facebook and Messenger.

Spot suspicious links

If you receive a link claiming to fix an account issue or confirm a transaction, don’t click it. Phishing pages are designed to steal your login credentials. Instead, open your GCash app directly to verify any alerts or transactions.

Report and stay informed

If you think you’ve received a spoofed message or encountered a phishing attempt, immediately report it through the Help Center in the GCash app. The GCash security teams continuously monitor and act on reported scams to protect users.

Individuals who have fallen victim to scams are encouraged to report and file cases to initiate the investigation. For assistance, the public can contact the PNP ACG through their hotlines at (02) 8414-1560 or 0998-598-8116, or via email at acg@pnp.gov.ph and the CICC national hotline at 1326 or mobile number 0991 4814225, or via email at report@cicc.gov.ph.

GCash users may also report suspected fraudulent activities to the official GCash Help Center at help.gcash.com by messaging Gigi, "I want to report a scam." Customers can also contact the official GCash hotline at 2882 for inquiries and other concerns.

For more information and updates on cybersecurity, visit the PNP-ACG Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/anticybercrimegroup and GCash website at https://www.gcash.com.

By staying vigilant and informed, you can honor your loved ones this Undas without falling for scams.

Filipinos can download the GCash app for free on Google Play or the App Store. For safety reminders and updates, visit the official Facebook page at GCash Official.

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

PLDT Enterprise Drives Business Growth and Innovation Through Next-Level Wireless Solutions in South Luzon

As part of its mission to help Philippine businesses to thrive in the evolving digital landscape through its wireless portfolio, PLDT Enterprise brought together business leaders, technology partners, and industry innovators at the Wireless Product Summit South Luzon Leg, held at Seda Nuvali, Santa Rosa, Laguna.  

 

In partnership with Huawei, Samsung, and Soprano, the event, themed “Driving Business Growth and Innovation through Next-Level Wireless Solutions,” showcased how PLDT Enterprise continues to drive wireless transformation. This includes innovations across Enterprise Postpaid, Smart Internet of Things (Smart IoT) and 5G solutions, Smart Messaging Suite for A2P (Application-To-Person) platform, Smart Bizload, and the newly enhanced Smart DigiForms—a digital forms solution that helps businesses simplify data collection and workflow management.  

 

Empowering South Luzon Enterprises with Smart Connectivity

Josh Montecillo, AVP and Head of Enterprise and International Product Management at PLDT Enterprise, discusses the evolution of mobility and wireless technologies during the Product Summit.     

      

 

Josh Montecillo, AVP and Head of Enterprise and International Wireless Product Management at PLDT Enterprise, emphasized the importance of strong connectivity in fueling regional growth.

 

“As more businesses in South Luzon embrace digital tools, we continue to evolve our wireless solutions to meet their needs—whether it’s ensuring reliable connectivity, enabling mobility, or providing smarter systems for operations,” Montecillo said. “Through innovations like 5G, Smart IoT, and platforms such as Smart DigiForms, we’re empowering businesses to operate efficiently and securely, wherever they are.”

 

In photo: Smart Bro 5G FWA (Fixed Wireless Access)

 

Montecillo also discussed how Smart’s suite of solutions has been instrumental in modernizing enterprise operations nationwide—from 5G Fixed Wireless Access to IoT-enabled tracking and automation, and Smart Messaging Suite for secure and scalable communication solutions.

 

Smart DigiForms: Simplifying Business Operations Through Digital Innovation

 

A key highlight of the Summit was Smart DigiForms, a mobile and web-based solution that digitizes and automates form-based processes across various industries. With its customizable templates, cloud-based storage, and real-time data access, Smart DigiForms enables organizations to transition from paper-based workflows to fully digital operations—saving time, improving accuracy, and boosting productivity.  

 

Through its intuitive interface and secure platform, Smart DigiForms caters to businesses of all sizes—supporting use cases in retail, logistics, field operations, healthcare, and financial services. The product aligns with PLDT Enterprise’s goal of empowering enterprises to simplify operations and enhance decision-making through digital transformation.

 

A Commitment to Regional Growth and Innovation

 

Jay Lagdameo, Vice President and Head of Enterprise Revenue Group, also underscored the value of the Wireless Product Summits in strengthening connections with regional clients and understanding their unique challenges.

 

“These summits allow us to listen to our customers and co-create solutions that directly address their needs,” Lagdameo shared. “South Luzon’s business community continues to grow rapidly, and PLDT Enterprise is committed to supporting this momentum through next-level connectivity and digital tools that help them achieve success.”

 

Throughout the event, PLDT Enterprise experts also presented the Smart Bizload platform for efficient employee load management, the Smart Messaging Suite for customer engagement, and IoT and 5G solutions for automation and security—all contributing to the company’s broader mission of enabling enterprises to operate smarter and more sustainably.

 

The South Luzon Wireless Product Summit 2025 concluded with a showcase of partner innovations and live demonstrations, reinforcing PLDT Enterprise’s role as a trusted enabler of digital transformation.

 

To learn more about PLDT Enterprise’s initiatives, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-wireless-summit-south-luzon-pr 

Dare to Switch: LIFT Brings the Challenge to MassKara 2025

This year’s MassKara Festival is about to get even more exciting as LIFT, the newest drink from Coca-Cola Philippines, joins the celebration with its first major festival activation. From October 17 to 19, festival-goers can visit the LIFT booth along Lacson Street and take on the brand’s signature “Dare to Switch” challenge, a call to embrace new experiences and celebrate every mode of life.

The booth will feature a lineup of fast-paced games and challenger activities designed to bring out everyone’s competitive side. Participants can race against the clock, beat high scores, and win exclusive prizes in true LIFT fashion: bold, confident, and always ready for what’s next.

Visitors can also drop by for free samples of LIFT and join interactive mini-games throughout the weekend. Whether you are with your barkada, your team, or just exploring on your own, the LIFT booth promises a fun, high-spirited stop where you can unwind, play, and switch things up.

Do not miss the chance to Dare to Switch this MassKara. Visit the LIFT booth on Lacson Street, join the challenge, enjoy your free drink, and take part in the celebration.

Follow LIFT Philippines on Facebook and Instagram for updates and festival highlights.