Pitik Queen Shows How to Lock In More Everyday Savings With the Upgraded GrabUnlimited

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With the upgraded GrabUnlimited, Filipino consumers need not tighten their belts to enjoy savings across food, groceries, and rides for only Php 48 per month through the annual plan

We all know the feeling. You want to order food, restock groceries, or book a ride, but the budget voice in your head says, “Tipid muna.”

GrabUnlimited makes that decision a little easier.

In Grab’s newest online video, viral social media sensation and Pitik Queen Ian Mark Kamangkang puts his signature tight belt and dance moves to good use, turning a familiar Filipino budgeting habit into the campaign’s main story.

Known online for cinching his belt and breaking into his now-iconic moves, Ian Mark brings humor to a very relatable dilemma: when the budget feels tight, should everyday conveniences like food delivery, groceries, and rides be the first to go?

GrabUnlimited offers a different answer. Instead of tightening their belts to cut back, users can make smarter Save Moves that help them lock in more value across the Grab app.

The upgraded GrabUnlimited gives subscribers more ways to save across the Grab ecosystem, from food and groceries to rides and rewards. For only PHP 48 per month through the annual plan, users can lock in year-round perks designed for everyday needs.

For GrabFood, savings are now easier to unlock. The minimum order value for discounted delivery has been lowered from Php 475 to just Php 390, allowing GrabUnlimited members to enjoy up to Php 49 off on delivery fees with a lower spend requirement. Members can also get 20% off on food orders from participating merchants, making daily meals, cravings, and group orders easier on the wallet.

GrabUnlimited now also includes GrabMart delivery discounts, giving members up to Php 80 off on delivery fees for groceries, pantry staples, household items, and other everyday essentials. It is a timely upgrade for users who want to save not only on food delivery, but also on the things they regularly need at home.

Furthermore, Grab is rolling out Top-Up Packs, giving GrabUnlimited members access to preferential rates and discounts at participating GrabFood restaurants and GrabMart stores. For a minimal upfront fee starting at PHP 29, subscribers can purchase restaurant- or store-specific voucher bundles from participating brands and unlock up to PHP 1,500 in extra savings.

GrabUnlimited members will also continue to enjoy transport perks, including 8% off GrabCar rides with a minimum fare of PHP 99 and an increased maximum discount of PHP 70. Members also exclusively earn base GrabCoins on all cashless transactions, helping them collect points faster and unlock more savings across the app.

The upgraded subscription comes with a more budget-friendly annual plan that brings the cost down to only Php 48 per month. For users who regularly order, shop, or book rides through Grab, the annual plan offers a practical way to lock in savings before the spending even begins.

With GrabUnlimited, Grab is giving Filipino users more ways to make everyday convenience feel more sulit. Whether it is a weekday lunch, a grocery run, a ride across the city, or a planned purchase from a favorite brand, the subscription helps users stretch their budget without giving up the services that make daily life easier.

As Ian Mark Kamangkang shows in the campaign, tipid does not always mean saying no. With the right Save Moves, it can also mean knowing where to get more value out of every peso.

Digital public service in action: LTFRB delivers fuel subsidy to public transportation drivers through GCash, enabling more efficient and accessible government assistance

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More efficient delivery of ayuda through digital disbursement, streamlining the process by eliminating long queues and commutes

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) have partnered with GCash to enable fuel subsidy disbursements benefiting drivers of public transportation nationwide.

DOTr, LTFRB, and GCash partner to streamline fuel subsidy disbursements for Filipino transport workers nationwide.

Under this program, eligible beneficiaries receive fuel assistance directly via their GCash e-wallets. This streamlined approach ensures aid reaches transport workers with greater speed, security, and transparency than traditional manual methods, while eliminating the need for beneficiaries to travel or wait in long queues.

The initiative was launched in response to rising global fuel prices, driven by ongoing geopolitical developments in the Middle East, which have placed significant financial pressure on PUV drivers and operators who depend on daily income to sustain their livelihoods and operations.

"GCash is committed to working with the government to ensure that digital financial infrastructure advances equitable access to essential services and upholds the dignity of every Filipino. In partnership with the LTFRB, this initiative demonstrates how digital subsidy disbursement can remove structural barriers, such as long queues and manual processes, while strengthening transparency and accountability in delivering government support to Filipinos,” said GCash B2B sales head, Cleo Celeste Santos.

Qualified beneficiaries verified by LTFRB

The LTFRB verified the credentials of public transportation drivers nationwide. The fuel subsidy will be disbursed directly to the fully verified GCash account.

Here’s how to check if you are part of LTFRB’s recipient list:

Step 1: Verify if you are on the list through LTFRB

To confirm if you are on the list of beneficiaries, please call LTFRB at 0956-761-0739 through Viber.

Step 2: If you are included in the LTFRB fuel subsidy beneficiaries, select your payout option.

● Eligible drivers choose their preferred bank or e-wallet to receive their funds.

● For those who selected GCash, LTFRB will disburse the fuel subsidy directly to the verified GCash account.

Step 3: If you do not have a verified GCash account yet, here’s what you need to do:

● Open the GCash app. Tap Profile, then tap Verify Now.

● Select a valid government ID: You may use your Driver’s License or any of the following: LTO Driver’s License, physical, digital or paper version of the National ID (Philsys), HDMF (Pag-Ibig Loyalty Plus), Philippine Postal ID, PRC ID, UMID, SSS ID, Philippine Passport

● Please ensure that your ID is not expired or damaged.

● Scan your government ID. Ensure that the ID you submit is valid (not expired), clear (undamaged), and the ID (not a photocopy, xerox, or just a photo of the ID).

● Take a selfie within the app and provide the required information.

● Wait for the message confirming that you are now fully verified.

Step 4: Wait for the SMS confirmation confirming LTFRB’s fuel subsidy disbursement

● Eligible fuel subsidy recipients will receive SMS confirmation from GCash confirming LTFRB’s aid disbursement

● Check your GCash app if the aid fund has been received.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: GCash will never send a link or ask for your OTP (One-Time Password) to access the fuel subsidy.

This partnership lays the groundwork for a scalable Disbursement Service platform that will support bulk and scheduled payouts, role-based governance approvals, and automated audit reporting, strengthening LTFRB's capacity to administer future subsidy programs more efficiently.

GCash reaffirms its commitment to serve as a platform for public good, ensuring that government assistance reaches the hands that need it most, faster and more reliably than ever before.

Drivers can verify their eligibility for the LTFRB fuel subsidy by checking the official beneficiary list through the LTFRB Official Facebook Page (Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-LTFRB) or by contacting their regional LTFRB office. Eligible beneficiaries are usually registered PUV drivers and operators with valid franchises and updated LTFRB and LTO records. Drivers may need to present valid IDs and franchise documents, and those not included in the list may request record validation through LTFRB.

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

Celebrate Every Milestone in Island Luxury at Discovery Samal

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Some moments deserve more than a celebration; they deserve a destination. Set on the pristine shores of Samal Island, Discovery Samal invites guests to celebrate life's most meaningful milestones with its thoughtfully curated Celebrations Package, where breathtaking views, warm Filipino hospitality, and personalized service come together.

Be it a wedding, anniversary, milestone birthday, or baby shower, the resort offers an island destination designed for intimate gatherings, complemented by a Celebrations Package starting at PHP 3,800 per person with a minimum of 30 guests and inclusive of thoughtfully curated event essentials and dedicated planning support.

Designed for Meaningful Gatherings

Every celebration at Discovery Samal begins with a journey across the water. Guests arrive by catamaran before stepping into an island setting where the pace slows and every moment feels more intentional. The resort's collection of celebration spaces allows every occasion to take on its own character, from romantic chapel ceremonies and seaside receptions to sophisticated ballroom events, poolside festivities, and intimate private dining experiences.

The Celebrations Package brings together the essentials needed for a worry-free event, including round-trip catamaran transfers, exclusive venue use for five hours, a choice of Western, Asian, or Filipino buffet, one round of beverages, a standard sound system with microphone, and banquet essentials. Couples who envision a chapel ceremony or a seaside exchange of vows may enhance their celebration through dedicated ceremony venues, floral styling, and personalized event arrangements, allowing every occasion to reflect their own story.

Yet the celebration doesn't end when the program does. Guests can extend the experience by unwinding in Discovery Samal's well-appointed accommodations, indulging in spa and wellness treatments, enjoying the resort's signature dining experiences, exploring island activities, or simply gathering for quiet conversations as the sun sets over the water. It is these moments in between that often become the most cherished memories.

Personalized Celebrations by the Sea

No two celebrations are alike, and Discovery Samal embraces that philosophy through personalized event experiences shaped around every host's vision. From curated floral arrangements and specialty dining concepts to grazing tables, carving stations, dessert spreads, mobile bars, coffee stations, and photobooths, every detail can be tailored to create an atmosphere that feels uniquely personal.

For larger celebrations, the resort also accommodates elaborate productions with professional lighting and sound systems, LED walls, and other technical requirements, ensuring milestone occasions of every scale are executed with the same level of care and attention. Behind every event is Discovery Samal's banquet specialists, culinary team, and dedicated event professionals, whose thoughtful service transforms beautiful settings into meaningful celebrations.

Milestones deserve a destination that makes every moment memorable. To learn more about Discovery Samal's Celebrations Package, visit www.discoverysamal.com, email reservations@discoverysamal.com, or call +63 84 308 2998.

Batangas Transport Cooperative (BATRASCO) drivers receive government fuel subsidy straight to their GCash e-wallets

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With the effects of the fuel crisis rippling across sectors, public transport is among the most severely impacted. Jeepney drivers are bearing the brunt of this volatility as rising costs threaten both their livelihoods and national mobility. The impact is felt far beyond the roads; this means tightening the budget of many Filipino households as well.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) earlier rolled out a fuel subsidy program for public utility vehicle drivers and operators nationwide. The initiative aims to help cushion the impact of the crisis, which also drove up the prices of basic commodities and utilities.

GCash works hand-in-hand with the DOTr, LTFRB, and other relevant government agencies to deliver the financial aid efficiently. The nation-building thrust of GCash enables drivers and operators to receive the subsidy straight to their e-wallets, making the disbursement process seamless and safe. Digitizing the payout eliminates the need to travel or wait in long lines, ensuring that aid reaches them without further delaying their livelihood.

Batangas Transport Cooperative (BATRASCO) president Romeo Macailao welcomes the digital disbursement of their fuel subsidy.

Among the recent recipients are the drivers and operators of Batangas Transport Cooperative (BATRASCO) in Lipa, Batangas. Romeo Macailao, president of the transport group, said that about 70 percent to 80 percent of their members were able to secure their financial aid already via GCash.

"Masaya sila nung natanggap nila iyon kasi napakadali lang, di na nila kailangan pumila ng matagal," the BATRASCO president added. (They were happy when they received it because it was very easy, and they no longer had to wait in long lines.)

Enabling financial inclusion

For Jayson, a 46-year-old jeepney driver from Brgy. Kwatro, Lipa City, the partnership meant more than just receiving aid. It also introduced him to how e-wallets like GCash can help people in their financial journey.

"First time ko pang mag-GCash nung na-receive ko yung ayuda, tinuruan ako nung anak ko paano i-set up," he shared. (It was my first time using GCash when I received the aid, and my child taught me how to set it up.)

 Jayson, 46, opens a GCash account for the first time.

Jayson is now a GCash user, marking his first step into the formal financial system. By opening his first official account through the app, he gains not only access to government aid and social services, but also secure financial tools that were once beyond his reach.

Convenient, seamless transactions

Both Roosevelt, 38, and Lito, 53, jeepney drivers from Bagong Pook, Lipa City, appreciated the convenience of receiving their financial aid through digital disbursements.

They did not have to spend hours in line. With a verified GCash account, the drivers were able to get the subsidy immediately, allowing them to have extra funds for their needs.

"Matagal na akong may GCash kaya natuwa ako nung nalaman kong doon na papasok ang ayuda. Napakabilis ng transaction at di na kailangang pumila pa," Roosevelt said. (I have been using GCash for a long time, so I was glad when I found out that the aid would be credited there. The transaction was very fast, and there was no need to line up anymore.)

"Hindi naman ako nahirapan mag-GCash, tinuruan lang ako ng aking asawa," Lito added. (I didn’t have a hard time using GCash; I was simply taught by my spouse.)

Lito also encouraged other drivers who do not have a GCash account to open one so they can reap the benefits of having access to digital financial services.

Dignified access to financial services

More than just convenience, digital disbursements enable drivers to focus on what matters most for their livelihood: staying on the road.

Loreto, a 42-year-old jeepney driver from Banaybanay, Lipa City, said he usually had to line up for half a day just to receive his subsidy. This meant losing around ₱700 in potential income, which is money he could have used to support his family’s needs.

"Ngayon, isang click na lang, nandoon na ang GCash. Nagagamit mo pa ang yung oras para kumita pa," Loreto said. (Now, it’s just one click, and GCash is there. You can even use the time to earn more.)

Alberto, 51-year-old jeepney driver from Bagong Pook, Lipa City, agreed. “Mas madali makuha yung ayuda ... di ka pa naaabala sa trabaho so mas maraming kikitain. Pag sa GCash, napaka-easy," he said. (It’s easier to receive the aid… and you’re not disrupted from work, so you can earn more. With GCash, it’s very easy.)

GCash continues to champion dignified access to digital financial services for all Filipinos. It shows how support can be delivered in ways that protect both time and livelihood, especially for workers in vulnerable sectors. In addition, this points to the growing role of digital platforms in making essential services more equitable and accessible.

Drivers can verify their eligibility for the LTFRB fuel subsidy by checking the official beneficiary list through the LTFRB Official Facebook Page (Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-LTFRB) or by contacting their regional LTFRB office.

Eligible beneficiaries are usually registered PUV drivers and operators with valid franchises and updated LTFRB and LTO records. Drivers may need to present valid IDs and franchise documents, and those not included in the list may request record validation through LTFRB.

For more information, visit gcash.com.

The Itchyworms bring the "Akin Ka Na Lang" tour to Hong Kong for the first time

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The iconic pop-rock band is set to stage two special performances on July 26, 2026, bringing a taste of home to the Filipino community in HK

The Itchyworms are set to bring their highly successful “Akin Ka Na Lang” tour to Hong Kong on July 26, 2026, at The Wanch in Wan Chai.

The one-night-only show promises to deliver an exciting live music experience for our kababayans seeking a semblance of home through the Filipino band’s brand of timeless OPM hits.

The chart-topping act behind the hits “Beer,” “Love Team,” and “Di Na Muli” will stage two performances at the same venue—4:00 PM matinee and an 8:00 PM evening show—giving overseas Filipinos considerable flexibility to attend, especially those with work schedules and curfews.

“Hong Kong has always been part of the Filipino story,” shares Jugs Jugueta. “The fact that it’s so near, yet only a few OPM bands have played there baffles me. The last time I was in Hong Kong was in 2019, so I’m so excited to come back and eat goose with my bandmates.”

The special concert represents an opportunity to reconnect with the thousands of Filipinos who have carried Filipino music with them while building lives abroad.

“It’s very humbling that we are able to tour the world, and anywhere we go, there will be Filipinos there,” Jugs reveals. “It is also humbling that multiple generations love The Itchyworms’ songs and continue to sing them everywhere.”

While the band is entering unfamiliar territory with their first-ever Hong Kong performance, they are embracing the experience with the same spontaneity and enthusiasm that have been prevalent in their previous live shows.

Jazz Nicolas explains, “We don’t know what kind of atmosphere to expect. We really just roll with the punches and give them everything we’ve got.”

Jugs adds that the Hong Kong stop will be made even more special—thanks to the collaborations with Filipino musicians based in the city, including Jesper Mercado and Rendel Frendol, who are expected to join the band on stage.

Tickets are now available at https://bit.ly/AkinKaNaLangHK.