by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 8, 2025 | Banking and Finance
In a tech industry that is rapidly becoming more inclusive, empowering women with advanced technical skills and strong mentorship is crucial for closing the gender gap in the sector. With access to the right tools, women leaders can thrive individually and help shape a more dynamic and equitable digital future. This was a key highlight from the recent Women Up Top Masterclass launched by GCash, the country’s leading finance app and the largest cashless ecosystem.
The full-day event brought together 30 participants who earned certifications in Agile 101 and AI/ML Workflow and AutoML. Both courses were facilitated by women leaders within the GCash tech teams, showcasing the company’s commitment to internal mentorship and representation.
While significant strides have been made to improve representation, women in tech still face structural challenges, including fewer mentorship opportunities, limited access to advanced training, and underrepresentation in leadership roles. By equipping women with essential technical skills and leadership tools, this program underscores GCash’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and future-ready digital workforce.
“Technology doesn’t run on code alone; it runs on people. And that includes data professionals, agile thinkers, machine learning engineers, and especially, women who bring not just skills, but empathy, intuition, and insight into every solution they help build,” GCash Head of Data Governance Sara Venturina shared a reminder that the success of any tech innovation depends as much on people as it does on code.
The Agile 101 session introduced participants to the principles and frameworks of the Agile methodology, a foundational capability in modern tech environments. Meanwhile, the AI/ML Workflow and AutoML session provided hands-on experience with the machine learning lifecycle, including practical work with PyCaret, an open-source, low-code machine learning library.
In addition to technical instruction, the masterclass fostered a sense of community among participants. Throughout the day, attendees shared insights, exchanged ideas, and experienced firsthand the support of peers and mentors who understand the unique challenges that women face in the tech industry.
As Venturina said, “We know the tech world hasn’t always made it easy for women. But we also know this: when women are equipped with the right tools and the right community, we can excel and get far in this field.”
GCash is committed to uplifting women and advancing their careers, reinforcing its dedication to creating a tech ecosystem that promotes diversity, equity, and empowerment.
For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.
About GCash
GCash is the Philippines’ leading finance super app and the country’s largest cashless ecosystem. With the GCash app, users can easily:
- Purchase prepaid airtime
- Pay bills through partner billers nationwide
- Send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, including to other bank accounts
- Shop from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers
- Access savings, credit, loans, insurance, and investment options
All of this can be done conveniently from a smartphone. The mobile wallet operations are managed by G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Mynt, which is the first and only unicorn in the Philippines, valued at $5 billion.
GCash is also a strong advocate for the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular focus on SDGs 5, 8, 10, and 13. These goals aim to promote safety and security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion, while also taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 2, 2025 | Banking and Finance
GCash, the leading super finance app in the Philippines, is offering relief to its borrowers through its lending arm, Fuse Financing Inc. They are providing a 15-day grace period for customers of GLoan and GGives who live in areas affected by the “Habagat” monsoon and Tropical Depressions Crising, Dante, and Emong.
Loan repayments due between July 19 and July 31 will have their deadlines automatically extended by 15 days. For instance, if a customer’s due date is July 21, 2025, and they are unable to make the payment or have insufficient funds, no penalties or late fees will be charged until August 5, 2025. During this extension, borrowers will not incur any additional interest or late fees, allowing them to focus on their recovery without added financial pressure.
Eligible borrowers will receive SMS notifications with details about their new due dates and advice on managing their repayments. Those who can repay early are encouraged to do so.
“We stand with the communities affected by the recent onslaught of typhoons and are committed to helping them rebuild their lives,” said Tony Isidro, president and CEO of Fuse Financing. “Every single effort counts, and together, we can make a significant difference.”
GCash is offering a 15-day grace period for borrowers affected by the recent typhoons in the following areas:
- National Capital Region: Las Piñas, Malabon, Manila, Marikina, Navotas, Quezon City
- Region I: Pangasinan
- Region III: Bataan, Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac
- Region IV-A: Batangas, Cavite, Rizal
- Region IV-B: Palawan
- Region VI: Antique
- Region VII: Cebu City
Additional areas may be added if the government declares them under a state of calamity. Customers with questions can submit a ticket through the GCash Help Center or contact Gigi within the GCash app.
About Fuse Lending, Inc.
Fuse Lending, Inc. is a company that provides simple, affordable, and secure loans in the Philippines. Its primary goal is to empower individuals and small businesses to achieve financial security and growth through a variety of digital lending products. Fuse Lending is a wholly owned subsidiary of Mynt, the first and only duacorn in the Philippines, and is regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Mynt, through its fintech operations, is a strong supporter of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goals 5, 8, 10, and 13. These goals focus on safety and security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
About GCash
GCash is the leading finance super app in the Philippines and the largest cashless ecosystem in the country. Through the GCash app, users can easily purchase prepaid airtime, pay bills through partner billers nationwide, send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines (including transfers to other bank accounts), shop with over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers, and access services such as savings, credit, loans, insurance, and investment opportunities, all from the convenience of their smartphones. Mobile wallet operations are managed by G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Mynt, the first and only unicorn in the Philippines, valued at $5 billion.
GCash is also a strong advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly goals 5, 8, 10, and 13. These goals emphasize safety and security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as the urgent need for action to combat climate change and its impacts.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 12, 2025 | Business
GCash, the country’s leading finance app and largest cashless ecosystem, becomes the first Philippine fintech to achieve ISO certifications for two globally recognized standards for information security management and privacy information management systems— the ISO/IEC 27001 and the ISO/IEC 2770.
GCash is the first fintech company in the Philippines to receive both certifications simultaneously, following a comprehensive and independent audit by the British Standards Institution (BSI), a business improvement and standards organization that partners with more than 84,000 clients globally across multiple industry sectors.
The certifications affirm that the information security and privacy management systems of GCash met international standards and best practices, which have been vetted by a third-party auditor, establishing transparency and building trust in the country’s largest cashless ecosystem.
“These ISO certifications are external validations of our internal belief that we must always operate with the highest integrity and discipline by integrating security and privacy into every aspect of our operations and innovations,” said Pebbles Sy, GCash chief technology and operations officer.
BSI country managing director Ava Taniajura added, “These certifications have given GCash a significant advantage in safeguarding against potential threats. GCash has implemented comprehensive systems and controls to ensure the utmost security and confidentiality of its users’ personal information.”
Meanwhile, GCash chief information security officer Miguel Geronilla emphasized that staying ahead of threats and strengthening defenses is essential to protecting customers and confidently enabling innovation.
“We have invested heavily in building a digital environment that prioritizes safety. These certifications are not just milestones but also a reflection of our commitment to protecting the trust that our millions of users have placed in us,” Geronilla said.
The ISO/IEC 27001 certification validates the systematic approach of GCash in managing sensitive information. The complementary ISO/IEC 27701 standard focuses on collecting, storing, and processing personal data following global and local privacy laws, including the Philippine Data Privacy Act and the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
“The reality is that financial services are now frontlines in the battle for data protection,” said GCash VP and group data protection officer Atty. Rob Real. “Our approach combines legal compliance with technology-enabled governance to stay ahead of increasingly complex threats.”
GCash is the first Philippine-based fintech company to receive dual certifications in ISO/IEC 27001 and ISO/IEC 27701 as of certification dates. Attaining dual ISO certifications for information security and data privacy is a significant achievement, as financial platforms face heightened scrutiny in protecting users from fraud, scams, and other forms of cybercrime.
The certification process required GCash to align its policies, internal audits, employee training, and data processing protocols with globally accepted standards in information security and data privacy.
The milestones come as Southeast Asia experiences a surge in cyberattacks, driven by the expansion of e-commerce, digital banking, and AI-powered fraud. In the Philippines, regulators have repeatedly warned of phishing schemes, social engineering, and synthetic identity fraud targeting mobile wallet users.
The multi-layered security strategy of GCash includes AI-driven fraud detection, biometric authentication, device binding, and 24/7 monitoring through its internal Security Operations Center. The company also works closely with regulators, law enforcement, and the banking sector to share threat intelligence and enhance consumer protection.
As cyberthreats continue to evolve, the long-term security strategy of GCash remains focused on strengthening its technological defenses and user education, ensuring resilience and reliability as digital adoption accelerates across the country.
For more information, visit www.gcash.com.
About GCash
GCash is the leading finance super app in the Philippines and the largest cashless ecosystem in the country. With the GCash app, users can easily purchase prepaid airtime, pay bills through partner billers nationwide, and send or receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts. Users can also shop from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers, and gain access to services such as savings, credit, loans, insurance, and investment opportunities, all conveniently available on their smartphones.
G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt, manages the mobile wallet operations of GCash.
Additionally, GCash is a strong advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly goals 5, 8, 10, and 13. These goals emphasize safety and security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as the urgent need to combat climate change and its impacts.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jun 12, 2025 | Business
Robert Conrad Gonzales
Robert Conrad Gonzales, the Chief People Officer of GCash, has been named one of this year’s 100 Most Influential HR Leaders in Southeast Asia. This annual recognition honors top HR executives who have made significant contributions to leadership, innovation, and transformation in the HR industry.
Recipients of this prestigious citation are chosen based on their social media influence, engagement levels, industry awards, community impact, thought leadership, and innovative HR practices. Additionally, the impact of HR initiatives on revenue growth and overall market influence is also considered.
Gonzales believes that artificial intelligence (AI) is meant to enhance employee productivity rather than replace them. As the highest-ranking Human Resources (HR) officer at GCash, Gonzales emphasizes the company’s steadfast commitment to prioritizing people in the era of automation. GCash is the leading finance app in the Philippines and the largest cashless ecosystem, recognized as an innovative fintech company that has received several accolades for being one of the best companies to work for.
“HR should champion automation and lead in adapting to technology, including AI, because our people need it, our employees rely on it,” said Gonzales. “If we do this right, our people will become more productive and serve our customers even better. Invest in people, champion leadership development, and embrace innovation. The future belongs to organizations that prioritize their people as their greatest asset.”
Gonzales was recognized for his contributions to the HR landscape when he received an award during the recently held Future Forward Philippines 2025, organized by The Economic Times, the second most widely read English-language business daily after The Wall Street Journal.
Driving business transformation or becoming obsolete in the age of AI?
During the whole day of the event, Gonzales was in the panel discussion titled ‘The Great Debate of HR at a Crossroads: Driving Business Transformation or Becoming Obsolete in the Age of AI?’ He was joined by other HR icons, including Cebu Pacific Air’s Chief Human Resource Officer, Felix Dan Lopez; Globe Telecom Inc.’s Chief Human Resource Officer, Renato Manuel Jiao; and Yasmin Taj, features editor of ETHRWorld/ETEducation, who served as the moderator.
Looking to the future, Gonzales sees artificial intelligence as a game-changer in transforming how organizations approach leadership development. “AI-powered talent identification and predictive analytics will revolutionize how we discover and grow high-potential leaders,” he said. “We’re also leaning into personalized, AI-driven learning paths that adapt to each employee’s growth trajectory because in a market that changes overnight, static development models just don’t cut it.”
GCash is already putting these innovations to work. “We’re expanding our use of AI-driven career development tools and enhancing our leadership programs with real-world business simulations,” Gonzales shared. “This enables us to gauge better readiness, drive engagement, and close skill gaps faster than ever.”
GCash is measuring the effectiveness of its leadership transitions by tracking rates of leadership changes, the retention of high-potential talent, and the business performance following these transitions. To refine its strategies and ensure succession pipelines are prepared for the future, continuous feedback loops and engagement surveys are employed.
Putting people first in an AI-powered workplace
Gonzales stated that GCash’s AI initiatives originate from a strong commitment to both employee well-being and operational excellence. He noted that AI not only enhances customer experience but also contributes to employee happiness by improving their welfare.
“We have a strong commitment to keep our people happy and engaged,” Gonzales said. “Many of our AI innovations are driven by employee needs. For example, team members want faster and more accurate processing of benefits and allowances. That’s why we developed an AI-powered tool called AGA.”
AGA, which stands for Alagang GCash Assistant, is a Gen AI-powered tool that automates and streamlines the processing of employee benefits. From wellness allowances to flexible benefits processing, AGA enables faster and error-free transactions.
Gonzales leaves HR leaders with a pointed message: “HR is no longer a support function but rather a strategic driver of growth. Invest in people. Champion leadership development and embrace innovation in workforce planning. The organizations that do this will be the ones leading tomorrow.”
For more information, visit www.gcash.com.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Apr 5, 2025 | Advocacy
The time, effort, and dedication required to train for a race or marathon make crossing the finish line incredibly rewarding for many runners. Similarly, creating a greener, more sustainable future demands a collective commitment of the same magnitude.
The first-ever GCash Eco Run transformed the streets of Ayala Avenue in Makati into a platform for this eco-movement. Over 12,000 eco-runners laced up their shoes—not just to achieve personal records but to make a lasting impact on the environment. Thanks to the support of event sponsors and sustainability partners, this milestone initiative has already resulted in the planting of 76,000 trees across 11 hectares in the Negros region, showcasing the powerful effects of our collective actions.
A race that goes beyond the finish line
In support of the South Negros Reforestation Initiative, which is a long-standing partnership between Silliman University and GCash, each sign-up for the GCash Eco Run contributed to the planting of a grey stilted mangrove tree in Negros Occidental. GCash doubled its commitment by pledging an additional tree for every participant. As a result, the runners contributed to the planting of a total of 24,000 new trees.
Grey stilted mangroves play a vital role in environmental conservation. They help mitigate the impacts of extreme weather, sequester carbon, and provide habitats for marine life. Consequently, mangrove forests are among the most effective natural ecosystems for carbon storage today, making them a crucial asset in the fight against climate change.
In line with its commitment to using technology for good, the GCash Eco Run served as a platform to raise awareness about sustainable living. The event brought together partner organizations and eco-conscious brands to share their initiatives and inspire collective action.
Various organizations championing different sustainability causes participated in the event. For example, Berdeng Kalaw collects paper and metal for recycling, while Caritas Manila converts clothing donations into funds for scholarships. Zolo specializes in reselling and recycling e-waste, and Aling Tindera focuses on gathering plastic waste for recycling.
Attendees had the opportunity to explore products from partner eco-merchants including Cut the Craft, Bukid ni Bogs, Wonderhome Naturals, Eco Shift, and Commune. They also received GCash VISA cards made from 100% recycled plastic.
GCash facilitates positive change by connecting partners with Silliman University, turning commitments into tangible action. With the support of eight collaborating companies for a greener future, a total of 52,000 trees will be planted in Negros, in addition to the 24,000 trees planted by the eco runners.
Nuvali Run Club members joined the 10KM race of the GCash Eco Run
Runners gather at the starting line of the first-ever GCash Eco Run, taking strides for sustainability and mangrove restoration–planting over 76,000 trees in the Negros region.
Continue taking steps for the environment with GForest
GCash is committed to making sustainable living easier and more accessible for every Filipino. Through its GForest initiative, users earn green energy points with every transaction on the GCash app, whether it’s cashing in, sending money, paying bills, buying load, or even taking 20,000 steps a day. These points can be redeemed to plant virtual trees and contribute to a greener future.
In collaboration with various partner organizations, GCash transforms these virtual trees into real ones planted in key areas across the country. This demonstrates how GForest serves as a platform for technology that promotes positive change.
“Much like how GForest turns virtual trees into actual ones, the GCash Eco Run brings together our community of Green Heroes, driven by a shared purpose to create real-world impact—one step, one tree, and one action at a time,” said CJ Alegre, GCash Head of Sustainability.
The largest digital eco-movement is growing even bigger. Every step we take, every action we make, and every tree we plant brings us closer to a greener future. Become a green hero today by signing up on the GForest feature in your GCash app dashboard.
The GCash Eco Run is proudly supported by corporate partners who have also committed to planting trees, including IKEA Philippines, Globe At Home, Pay & Go, and eTap Solutions. This initiative enhances Silliman University’s efforts in mangrove reforestation.
About GCash
GCash is the leading finance super app in the Philippines. Through the GCash app, users can easily perform various financial transactions, such as purchasing prepaid airtime, paying bills through a network of partner billers nationwide, and sending or receiving money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts. Users can also shop from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers. Additionally, GCash provides access to savings, credit, loans, insurance, and investment opportunities, all from the convenience of their smartphones.
The mobile wallet operations of GCash are managed by G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt— the first and only “duacorn” in the Philippines.
GCash is a strong advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially focusing on SDGs 5, 8, 10, and 13. These goals promote safety and security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as urgent action to combat climate change and its effects.
GCash is the Philippines’ leading finance super app and the country’s largest cashless ecosystem. With the GCash app, users can easily:
Loan repayments due between July 19 and July 31 will have their deadlines automatically extended by 15 days. For instance, if a customer’s due date is July 21, 2025, and they are unable to make the payment or have insufficient funds, no penalties or late fees will be charged until August 5, 2025. During this extension, borrowers will not incur any additional interest or late fees, allowing them to focus on their recovery without added financial pressure.
GCash is the leading finance super app in the Philippines and the largest cashless ecosystem in the country. With the GCash app, users can easily purchase prepaid airtime, pay bills through partner billers nationwide, and send or receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts. Users can also shop from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers, and gain access to services such as savings, credit, loans, insurance, and investment opportunities, all conveniently available on their smartphones.
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