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.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Nov 7, 2024 | Business
Following a comprehensive online poll, the most beloved travel brands received the prestigious TripZilla Excellence Awards in recognition of their exemplary performance over the past year.
Singapore, 7 November 2024 – Marking its landmark 10th year, the prestigious TripZilla Excellence Awards returns to honour the most outstanding travel brands, celebrating their unparalleled achievements that have set new standards of excellence and elevated the industry to new heights. Companies that exemplify the best in travel have been selected and conferred awards through an extensive online voting exercise held from 16 to 30 October 2024.
Organised by TripZilla, the independent and leading online travel media in Southeast Asia that reaches more than 20 million travellers monthly, the Awards recognise the popularity, achievement, and dedication of top consumer-facing brands in travel.
The Awards features five main sectors with multiple categories to celebrate industry leaders across the region. This year’s event is the largest to date, with a record number of nominees and voters, culminating in over 60 awards recognising exceptional contributions to travel.
First-time winners who made their way into the TripZilla Excellence Awards 2024 include AXA Smart Traveller, Revolut, Skyline Luge Singapore, and Maybank Horizon Visa Signature Card. Noteworthy repeat winners that have once again made the list include Science Centre Singapore, EU Holidays, and HL Assurance.
“Tourism connects people, creates jobs, and supports communities worldwide, all while fulfilling our innate wanderlust. It is a complex and profoundly impactful industry. As a leading travel inspiration platform, it’s incredibly meaningful for us to recognise the standout brands in this vital sector,” said Winnie Tan, CEO of TripZilla.com. “This year’s TripZilla Excellence Award winners are true trailblazers, crafting unforgettable moments that leave a lasting impression on travellers seeking new and unique experiences.”
For the full list of 2024 winners, refer to Annex A appended below or click here.
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About TripZilla Excellence Awards 2024
Now in its landmark 10th year, the prestigious TripZilla Excellence Awards returns to honour the finest travel companies for delivering the most brilliant experiences and propelling the industry to greater heights. Over a hundred phenomenal organisations were nominated for an award this year. After an intensive round of voting on the TripZilla.com platform, this highly-coveted accolade was presented to more than 60 exceptional brands.
For more information, visit: https://www.tripzilla.com/excellence-awards/2024
ANNEX A
Online Travel Services – Singapore
Best Customer Service (Insurance): HL Assurance
Best Global Roaming Services: AIRSIM / AIRSIMe
Best Online Buying Experience (Insurance): HL Assurance
Best Online Travel Agency: Trip.com
Best Travel Claims Experience: Etiqa Insurance Pte Ltd
Best Travel Credit Card: Maybank Horizon Visa Signature Card
Best Travel Insurance (Annual): HL Assurance
Best Travel Insurance (Single Trip): Etiqa Insurance Pte Ltd
Best Travel Wallet: Revolut
Most Popular Travel Insurance Company: Etiqa Insurance Pte Ltd
Online Travel Services – The Philippines
Best Global Roaming Services: Cherry Roam
Best Online Travel Agency: Klook
Best Travel Credit Card: RCBC Visa Platinum
Best Travel Insurance (Annual): Chubb Travel Insurance
Best Travel Insurance (Single Trip): AXA Smart Traveller
Best Travel Wallet: GCash
Travel Agencies
Best for Australia: EU Holidays
Best for China: Super Travels
Best for Europe: EU Holidays
Best for Exotic Tours: Nam Ho Travel Services
Best for Japan: EU Holidays
Best for Korea: Nam Ho Travel Service
Best for Malaysia: WTS Travel & Tours
Best for Taiwan: ASA Holidays
Best for USA: Chan Brothers Travel
Best for Vietnam: WTS Travel & Tours
Best Coach Operator: Transtar Travel
Best for Celebrity Tours: ASA Holidays
Best for Young Adults: Contiki
Most Innovative Tour Product: Travel with WEBUY
Activities & Attractions – Singapore
Best Animal Encounter: Bird Paradise
Best Attraction for Adrenaline Junkies: Skyline Luge Singapore
Best Family Attraction: Science Centre Singapore
Best Water Park: Adventure Cove Waterpark
Most Popular Attraction for Children: KidsSTOP™
Activities & Attractions – Malaysia
Best Animal Encounter: Langkawi Wildlife Park
Best Attraction for Adrenaline Junkies: LYL International Karting Circuit
Best Family Attraction: Dream Forest Langkawi
Best Integrated Marketing Campaign: Enfiniti (M) Sdn Bhd
Best New Attraction: FunPark Gamuda Luge Gardens
Best Water Park: SplashMania WaterPark
Hotels
Best Hotel Rewards: Wyndham Rewards
Hotels – Singapore
Best Budget Hotel Chain: Hotel 81
Best Business Hotel: Grand Park City Hall
Best for Families: Novotel Singapore on Kitchener
Best Luxury Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
Best New Hotel: Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre
Hotels – Malaysia
Best Budget Hotel Chain: Holiday Inn Express
Best Business Hotel: EQ Kuala Lumpur
Best for Families: Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Best Luxury Hotel: One&Only Desaru Coast
Best Luxury Glamping Experience: Tiarasa Escapes Glamping Resort
Hotels – The Philippines
Best Budget Hotel: Go Hotels Plus Mandaluyong
Best Business Hotel: Summit Galleria Cebu
Best for Families: Summit Ridge Tagaytay
Best Luxury Hotel: Limketkai Luxe Hotel
Best New Hotel: Citadines Benavidez Makati
Destinations
Best Beach Destination: Fiji
Best City Destination: Hong Kong
Best Dive Destination: The Philippines
Destination of the year: Malaysia
Sustainability Leader Of The Year (Asia): Tourism Promotions Board Philippines
This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Oct 23, 2024 | Advocacy
The Philippine National Police (PNP), with the aid of GCash, has uncovered the proliferation of online children and women trafficking during recent arrests of cybercriminals conducted by the law enforcement body.
A human trafficking suspect allegedly exploited victims on a popular social media platform. Posing as clients under various aliases, he purchased pornographic material from victims and then used it to coerce them into further sexual exploitation. The victims were subsequently trafficked to the Middle East for forced labor and prostitution, reportedly using various social media aliases, including Lester James Ang, LJ Garcia, Harley Garcia, Mark Harley Garcia, Mark Harley Dave Garcia, and Mark Harly Dave Garciano. He was eventually traced and arrested by an operation led by the PNP Anti-cybercrime group.
Two more separate cases of online child sexual exploitation have been reported by PNP-ACG involving a suspect named Mary June Netuliano Espiritu, who was put into custody for purportedly selling explicit videos of her daughter on social media. In a similar case, Leonisa Postetad Ligo is facing charges for allegedly prostituting two minor victims through a popular messaging app.
As the largest digital ecosystem, GCash recognizes its role in keeping the public and cyberspace secure— while safeguarding the well-being of women and children.
“To create a financially inclusive cashless ecosystem, we must ensure that the digital landscape is safe for users and their children by supporting law enforcement agencies in their efforts against cybercrimes. Our commitment extends to protecting the community from all threats, especially involving women and children,” said GCash vice president and head of corporate communications Gilda Maquilan.
GCash urges the public to report any incidents of scams, fraud, or cybercrime to the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) by calling (02) 8414-1560 or 0998-598-8116 or by emailing acg@pnp.gov.ph. Users can also report cybercrimes through the official GCash Help Center at https://help.gcash.com by messaging Gigi on the website and typing ‘I want to report a scam.’ Alternatively, they may contact the GCash hotline by dialing 2882.
For a safer digital experience, GCash reminds its users to remain vigilant, never share their MPIN or OTP, and avoid clicking on suspicious links that could lead to phishing or fraud. GCash will never ask for personal information through private messages.
About GCash
GCash is the leading finance super app in the Philippines and boasts the largest cashless ecosystem in the country. With the GCash app, users can easily purchase prepaid airtime, pay bills through a network of partner billers nationwide, send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines (including to other bank accounts), and shop from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers. Users also have access to savings, credit, loans, insurance, and investment options, all conveniently available on their smartphones.
The mobile wallet operations are managed by G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt, which is the first and only unicorn valued at $5 billion in the Philippines.
GCash is a strong supporter of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs 5, 8, 10, and 13. These goals emphasize safety and security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as the urgent action needed to combat climate change and its impacts.
About Fuse Lending, Inc.
Fuse Lending, Inc. is a company that provides simple, affordable, and secure loans in the Philippines. Its primary mission is to help individuals and small businesses 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 $5 billion unicorn in the Philippines. It is also regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Mynt, through its fintech operations, strongly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically 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.
by Ferry Bayu | Jun 27, 2024 | Business
Victorias City, Negros Occidental – On June 27, 2024, the Victorias Coliseum buzzed with anticipation as business owners and entrepreneurs gathered for the “DigiCities Masterclass,” a key event under USAID’s SPEED (Strengthening Private Enterprises for the Digital Economy) initiative, coinciding with World MSME Day. This global observance, designated by the United Nations, celebrates the crucial role of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in achieving sustainable development and promoting innovation.
The event began at 8:30 AM with registration and concluded in the afternoon with a closing message and a photo opportunity. Atty. Gino Jacinto, COO of UNAWA, captivated the audience with his presentation, “From Ink to Click: The Digital Signature Advantage for Small Businesses.” This session highlighted the innovative features of UNAWA’s SignSecure platform, which uniquely integrates facial recognition into its e-signature process, ensuring enhanced security and compliance. Atty. Jacinto emphasized the efficiency, faster processes, improved compliance, and cost savings that digital transitions offer, aligning with UNAWA’s mission to support SMEs in their digital transformation journey.
The event, powered by GCash for Business and delivered by StartUp Village, included various insightful sessions. The event flow began with a welcome message and an introduction to the USAID SPEED Activity, followed by sessions on adopting a growth mindset through digitization, leveraging eCommerce for business growth, the advantages of digital signatures, and improving logistics to bridge borders. Representatives from Prosperna, MyKartero, and DigiCities also shared valuable insights. The event concluded with acknowledging partners.
Benefits of SignSecure for MSMEs:
Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at Victorias Coliseum, Victorias City, Negros Occidental, June 27, 2024.
SignSecure helps MSMEs streamline their processes by reducing administrative time and speeding up document access and approvals. Digital documentation maintains accurate records, simplifies compliance, and uses automated systems for audit trails and deadline alerts. It reduces the need for storage, paper, printing, mailing, and labor, allowing cost savings to be reinvested in other business areas. Moreover, the facial recognition feature of SignSecure adds a layer of security, ensuring that only authorized individuals can sign documents.
What is a DigiCity?
A DigiCity is a city that leverages digital technologies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its services, promote economic growth, and enhance the quality of life for its residents. DigiCities initiatives often involve integrating digital solutions across various sectors, including governance, business, and infrastructure, to create a more connected and intelligent urban environment.
Victorias City, one of 27 DigiCities in the Philippines, shares UNAWA’s vision for digital advancement. This masterclass marks a significant step towards empowering businesses through technology and fostering a more robust and inclusive digital economy.
For more information on UNAWA and their suite of digital solutions, visit UNAWA.
This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES
by Ferry Bayu | May 31, 2024 | Business
Electronic Transfer & Advance Processing, Inc. (eTap), the country’s leading self-service payment kiosk provider, has showcased its groundbreaking achievements in revolutionizing convenience and shaping the future of finance at the Asia Retail and eCommerce Innovation Summit Philippines 2024.
Asia Retail and eCommerce Innovation Summit Philippines 2024
“We are thrilled to join the Asia Retail and eCommerce Innovation Summit Philippines 2024 as a Gold sponsor and share our vision for the future of finance. At eTap, we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation to deliver transformative solutions that streamline payment processes and empower businesses to thrive in today’s dynamic market,” said Carlo Hernandez, eTap Solutions President and CEO.
The event, held at the Marriott Hotel on May 24, brought together over 200 senior experts, top retailers, and tech innovators to shape the future of e-commerce and retail. It served as a platform for exchanging insights and innovations, drawing participants from various sectors.
Five eTap officials shared valuable insights during the event in a keynote session titled “Revolutionizing Convenience: How eTap is Shaping the Future of Finance.” The session attracted a large audience of industry leaders and innovators eager to gain valuable insights from eTap.
[L-R] – eTap representatives Carlo C. Hernandez/President & CEO, Gabrielle Rubio/Finance Manager, Paolo Lorenzo Macaraeg/Brand Manager, Erica Natividad/Marketing Supervisor, Reinier Allan Cruz/VP for Finance and Operations and Joe Muldera/Business Development Manager
Each speaker brought a unique perspective to the session, highlighting various aspects of eTap’s strategic initiatives and the significant impact of their technology on the retail and e-commerce landscape.
Currently, eTap offers users a comprehensive platform for various financial transactions, including eMoney services (GCash, Maya, Shopee Pay, and Diskartech), banking (BPI and AUB), loans (Home Credit and AEON Credit Service), mobile and internet (Globe, Smart, Sun Cellular, PLDT, DITO Telecoms, and Converge), gaming (Genshin Impact and Mobile Legends), and rider services (Grab and Dragonloans).
Hernandez said that the introduction of eTap kiosks has been a game-changer in providing convenience to the public. These self-service payment kiosks have significantly streamlined payment processes, offering a quick, efficient, and user-friendly transaction method. By enabling customers to conduct a wide range of financial activities, such as real-time bill payments, money transfers, and prepaid services, eTap kiosks have reduced the need for traditional counter services, minimizing wait times and enhancing the overall customer experience.
“Our kiosks are designed with the user in mind, ensuring every transaction is simple, secure, and swift. We believe that accessibility and ease of use are paramount, and our kiosks are strategically placed in high-traffic areas to maximize convenience for everyone,” said Hernandez.
[L-R] – Colin Christie/Chairman, Advisory Council (Analytics & Artificial Intelligence Association of the Philippines), Reinier Allan Cruz/VP for Finance and Operations, Joe Muldera/Business Development Manager, Gabrielle Rubio/Finance Manager, Paolo Lorenzo Macaraeg/Brand Manager, Erica Natividad/Marketing Supervisor
Hernandez said eTap expects to surpass its 65% income increase in 2023, demonstrating robust financial growth through continuous expansion by adding 2,000 machines annually.
As of May, the Filipino-owned company has more thank 2,000 kiosks nationwide and plans to double this number by the end of the year to further enhance its reach and accessibility. Its number of transactions also increased from 5,781,570 in 2022 to 22,332,702 in 2023. By December, it targets to register at least 38,500,000 transactions and around 3.6 million monthly active users.
To date, eTap continues to champion the transformative power of technology to uplift communities. Its self-service payment kiosk system caters to a diverse range of users, ensuring that technology becomes an inclusive force for positive change. Whether individuals need to settle bills, top up their e-wallets, purchase prepaid loads, or make loan payments, eTap’s kiosk system provides a seamless and user-friendly solution for many financial transactions.
For more information about eTap, please visit www.etapmo.com.
This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES
GCash is the leading finance super app in the Philippines and boasts the largest cashless ecosystem in the country. With the GCash app, users can easily purchase prepaid airtime, pay bills through a network of partner billers nationwide, send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines (including to other bank accounts), and shop from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers. Users also have access to savings, credit, loans, insurance, and investment options, all conveniently available on their smartphones.
![[L-R] - eTap representatives Carlo C. Hernandez/President & CEO, Gabrielle Rubio/Finance Manager, Paolo Lorenzo Macaraeg/Brand Manager, Erica Natividad/Marketing Supervisor, Reinier Allan Cruz/VP for Finance and Operations and Joe Muldera/Business Development Manager](https://i0.wp.com/slvrdlphn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/etap-representatives.jpg?resize=500%2C281&ssl=1)
![[L-R] - Colin Christie/Chairman, Advisory Council (Analytics & Artificial Intelligence Association of the Philippines), Reinier Allan Cruz/VP for Finance and Operations, Joe Muldera/Business Development Manager, Gabrielle Rubio/Finance Manager, Paolo Lorenzo Macaraeg/Brand Manager, Erica Natividad/Marketing Supervisor](https://i0.wp.com/slvrdlphn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/etap-attendees.jpg?resize=500%2C281&ssl=1)
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