2GO Deploys E-Trucks to Advance Environmentally Conscious Logistics

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2GO, the country’s leading multimodal logistics solutions provider, has officially deployed its first batch of electric trucks, marking a major step toward greener and more sustainable logistics operations.

L–R: Ethel Concepcion, Head of Corporate Marketing and Communications, 2GO Group, Inc.; Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head, 2GO Forwarding; Allain Dick, Board Director, Eclimo Electric Management Inc.; Elizier Santiago, Senior Assistant Vice President and Head of Operations, 2GO Forwarding.

Sustainability has long been at the core of 2GO’s operations. The company has utilized electric forklifts in its warehouses, ensured its land transportation fleet meets Euro 4 emission standards, and integrated solar panels to harness renewable energy across key facilities. Eco-friendly packaging solutions are standard, and shipping operations continue to provide one of the most environmentally responsible methods for long-distance cargo transport in the country. The addition of e-trucks further strengthens 2GO’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions while maintaining operational efficiency.

“These new electric trucks represent more than just innovation; they are a reflection of 2GO’s long-standing commitment to sustainability,” said Faye Alonzo, 2GO Forwarding Business Unit Head. “Every step we take, from warehouse operations to the roads, is guided by our responsibility to the environment. With e-trucks, we can move goods more efficiently while significantly lowering our carbon footprint, proving that logistics and sustainability can go hand in hand.”

2GO E-Truck Drives Greener Logistics with 100% Electric Power.

The new electric vehicles are designed to handle high-volume freight, offering quieter, cleaner, and more energy-efficient operations. For 2GO Forwarding, this means faster delivery times, reduced fuel costs, and a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across urban and intercity routes.

With this milestone, 2GO continues to lead the logistics industry in eco-conscious innovations, reinforcing its role as a responsible partner for businesses and communities alike.

For inquiries on 2GO Forwarding services or sustainable logistics solutions, please email forwarding@2go.com.ph.

Security Bank honored for excellence in financial markets at the Asset Benchmark Research Awards

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Singapore – Security Bank  once again been recognized as one of the region’s best-performing financial institutions at The Asset Benchmark Research Awards 2025, held on November 6, 2025, at the Grand Hyatt Singapore. The annual awards honor leading financial market professionals and institutions that consistently deliver outstanding value, performance, and insight across Asia.

(L-R): Leikeesha Larayne Dungan, FISD Senior Institutional Sales Officer; Adrian Meynard Ang; FISD Institutional Sales Officer; and Jim Yap, EVP and Financial Markets Head.

Security Bank was awarded Top Sellside Firm in the Secondary Markets–Government Bonds (Philippines), marking a significant rise from its third-place ranking in 2023. This achievement underscores the Bank’s leadership in the fixed-income market and its continued commitment to providing clients with trusted guidance, dependable execution, and tailored financial solutions.

In addition to the institutional award, several Security Bank professionals were recognized across individual categories including Best Sellside Individual and Most Astute Investor—reflecting their expertise, integrity, and dedication to serving clients at the highest standards.

“This recognition is a powerful testament to our team’s commitment and pursuit of excellence,” said Jim Yap, EVP and Financial Markets Segment Head at Security Bank. “Climbing from third place to first demonstrates the consistency and hard work of our team. More importantly, it affirms our drive to help clients succeed and strengthen our position in the financial markets.”

The Asset Benchmark Research Awards are among the most respected distinctions in the financial sector, honoring institutions and professionals whose work shapes and elevates the region’s capital markets. Security Bank’s recognition highlights its role as a key player in developing and deepening the Philippine financial markets. #

Government agencies and GCash accelerate digital Philippines transformation, boosting transparency and public service delivery

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ARTA, BSP, and DICT team up with GCash for the Nation initiative to push for full government digitalization

In line with the government’s vision to eliminate red tape and corruption, the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), together with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and the country’s leading finance app GCash, convened to champion the complete digitalization of public services. The workshop, “GCash for the Nation: Building Capabilities Toward a Sustainable Digital Ecosystem,” was held at the ARTA premises in the UP-AyalaLand Technohub, Quezon City.

Bringing together leaders from economic, regulatory, and local government sectors, the session underscored a shared commitment that digital transformation is key to transparent, efficient, and citizen-centered governance.

“Digitalization is not just ease of doing business but an assurance against undesired allegations such as corruption. Every time we move a process online, we create a system that is accountable, traceable, and citizen-centered,” said ARTA director general Ernesto Perez.

Government and industry leaders agreed that moving processes online not only speeds up delivery but also ensures every transaction is properly documented and verifiable. However, one major challenge remains—shifting from paper-based audits to digital validation. BSP deputy governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat highlighted this social shift, emphasizing that building trust in digital platforms is essential for the government’s transformation journey.

“Digital finance must build not only convenience but also trust. Through the years, we’ve already established financial inclusion, and we have now evolved into driving financial health,” she said.

As the country’s leading finance app and largest cashless ecosystem, GCash reaffirmed its commitment to supporting government agencies in adopting paperless and cashless systems. This collaboration aims to accelerate the shift toward e-payments and digital records, improving ease of doing business and minimizing bureaucratic bottlenecks.

“The digital economy reached ₱2.25 trillion in 2024, signaling our shift toward a fully digital future. (At DepDev), we are driving digitalization across planning, policy, and implementation while advancing key reforms to simplify business processes. We look forward to working with all our partners to bring Filipinos closer to a more comfortable and resilient way of life, “said DepDev assistant secretary Reynaldo Cancio.

 

GCash VP and head of public sector Cleo Celeste Santos highlights the role of technology in improving public services

Through the partnership, ARTA and GCash will roll out capacity-building initiatives for local and national government units, enabling them to develop digital systems aligned with the government’s transformation roadmap. These initiatives include digital payment integration, streamlined records management, and strengthened citizen access to essential services.

“Digital transformation requires both technology and mindset. We’re here to build the digital backbone that allows government agencies to deliver faster, cleaner, and more inclusive services to Filipinos,” said Cleo Celeste Santos, GCash vice president and head of public sector.

“GCash is proud to stand alongside ARTA and our government partners in advancing a truly digital nation—one that enables transparent, efficient, and inclusive services for all,” Santos added.

BSP deputy governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat underscores that building trust in digital platforms is key to the government’s digital transformation journey

DepDev assistant secretary Reynaldo Cancio talks about digitalization and its impact on the Philippine economy

The workshop underscored ARTA’s “whole-of-government” approach to reforming public services—an effort that aligns seamlessly with GCash’s vision of “Finance for All.” By empowering agencies with secure and efficient digital tools, GCash continues to play a pivotal role in building a safe, trusted, and inclusive digital economy—helping government institutions uphold transparency, accountability, and sustainable governance for every Filipino.

“Once fully deployed, we will anchor a sustainable digital ecosystem that streamlines transactions, strengthens transparency, and accelerates the country’s digitalization agenda,” said GPPB-TSO Capacity Development Division officer-in-charge Renlay Concha.

GCash for the Nation program brings digital and financial literacy training to different regions across the country. Earlier sessions were held in Pangasinan and in the National Government Agencies cluster in NCR, Eastern and Western Visayas. These will be followed by the next runs in Cagayan Valley on November 25, and Albay on November 27. Through these continuing efforts, GCash remains steadfast in its mission to enable Finance for the Nation by empowering communities, MSMEs, and government partners through digital innovation.

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

TYREPLUS Opens Outlet in the Philippines at Chino Roces, Makati

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TYREPLUS, one of the world’s largest one-stop centers for car maintenance services with over 2,100 stores in 15 countries, proudly launches its newest outlet in the heart of Makati at Chino Roces Avenue. This location marks the first TYREPLUS store in the Philippines to operate on solar energy—reinforcing Michelin’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in mobility solutions.

• New location provides comprehensive car and motorcycle services, including a free safety check for all customers

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Strategically positioned in one of Metro Manila’s busiest thoroughfares, TYREPLUS Chino Roces offers a wide range of automotive and motorcycle care services, featuring a complimentary safety diagnostic check for all customers, a first-of-its-kind offering among similar outlets nationwide.

“The launch of TYREPLUS Chino Roces reflects our ambition to provide accessible, reliable, and sustainable vehicle care in the Philippines. By offering essential top-tier services, we are reimagining car care with a strong focus on safety and quality to ensure the best quality for our customers,” said Jonathan Khong, Michelin Philippines Country Director.

Comprehensive Vehicle Services – All Under One Roof

TYREPLUS Chino Roces delivers an extensive range of services for both passenger vehicles and motorcycles, including:

For Passenger Cars:

· Tires and tire-related services (wheel alignment, balancing, rotation, etc.)

· Oil change

· Brake inspection and servicing

· Battery testing and replacement

· Suspension system services

· Vehicle accessories (e.g., windshield wipers)

For Motorcycles (available in selected stores):

· Tire fitting, balancing, and repair

· Oil change

· Brake and battery services

“What sets this outlet apart is our free vehicle safety diagnostic check,” added Thomerson Yao, Tireserve Ventures Inc. President, franchisee of TYREPLUS Chino Roces. “We want every customer, whether they're getting a tire rotation or an oil change, to leave with peace of mind, knowing their vehicle has undergone a full safety check in line with Michelin’s international standards.”

Roadmap to Nationwide Expansion

The Chino Roces launch is part of a broader TYREPLUS expansion roadmap that aims to open 30 stores across the Philippines by 2028, with an initial focus on Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Metro Davao.

Sustainability at the Core

In line with Michelin’s global commitment to reduce its environmental footprint, TYREPLUS Chino Roces is equipped with solar panels to support the brand’s long-term vision of delivering sustainable mobility solutions while lowering emissions and operational impact.

TYREPLUS Chino Roces

Address: 2174 Chino Roces Ave, Makati City, 1230 Metro Manila, Philippines

Contact Number: +63 933 861 7306

Opening Hours: 9:00AM - 6:00PM (Monday - Sunday)

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About TYREPLUS

TYREPLUS has been helping car-owners both individuals and corporates in 15 countries, maintain their vehicles to the highest standards. Our professional tire and car service centers offer quality services, as well as international brands. Our skilled, professional auto mechanics take care of any needs and concerns you may have.

We understand that nothing is more important than the safety of our customers, and nothing is more important to you than the safety of your family. Therefore, we take the utmost care in providing only the highest quality products recommended by experts, with exceptional service provided by our highly-qualified and knowledgeable professionals who will provide an in-depth consultation and thorough inspection of your vehicle. (www.tyreplus.com)

Manulife Launches Global Longevity Institute Committing $350M by 2030 to Accelerate Progress on Lifelong Health and Financial Resilience

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●      Global research, advocacy and community investment platform created to advance innovation that will reimagine aging and lifelong well-being

●      Initial actions include new research with Milken Institute, Longevity Symposiums across global markets, and more

Manulife announced the launch of the Longevity Institute, a global platform that will seek to drive action to help people live longer, healthier, and more financially secure lives. Backed by a $350 million commitment, the Longevity Institute will work to champion research, innovation, and partnerships that will help people thrive at every age.

As a global leader in life insurance, asset management, and retirement planning, Manulife is deeply invested in the health and well-being of its customers. However, the gap between how long people live (lifespan) and their quality of life (healthspan) is widening — with many spending up to 20% of their lives in poor health, and nearly 40% facing financial insecurity as they age^[1]. The Longevity Institute aims to close this gap by reimagining how people live, work, learn, and contribute throughout their lives.

“Empowering health, wealth, and longevity is central to Manulife’s bold new ambition. It aligns with our values and our commitment to the communities we operate in, and we are uniquely placed to help individuals and families navigate the growing gap between lifespan and healthspan,” said Phil Witherington, President and CEO of Manulife. “For generations now, Manulife has supported customers at every stage of life, and we see a powerful opportunity to scale our expertise and help even more people live longer, healthier, better lives. Through the Longevity Institute, we will partner with organizations that share our purpose, unlock new insights, drive innovation, and create a future where everyone can thrive—at any age.” 

The Longevity Institute will focus on igniting global research and thought leadership to better understand how people can flourish as they live longer; accelerating innovation and advocacy through initiatives that promote health, wellness, and financial readiness; and investing in community partnerships that advance knowledge, promote equity, and drive action around longevity.

Steve Finch, President & CEO, Manulife Asia said, “With the demographic shifts in Asia, where one in four people will be over the age of 60 by 2050, it's crucial to rethink traditional approaches to financial planning, health care, and workforce participation. At Manulife, we are committed to driving innovation that promotes long-term financial resilience, equitable healthy aging, and lifelong fulfillment. By supporting early-stage innovations and providing comprehensive solutions, we aim to help people live better for longer and secure their financial futures.”

Initiatives

Manulife has a long history of driving impact through programs, products, services, and community investments dating back to 1888, when Manulife gifted an ambulance to the City of Toronto—its first act of public service to help people live longer, healthier lives.

To mark the launch of the Institute and build on our long history of impact, Manulife is pleased to share new and ongoing initiatives that reflect our commitment to advancing longevity through meaningful action:

●        Partnering with the National Institute of Ageing: Manulife is supporting the National Institute on Ageing’s annual Ageing in Canada Survey, conducted in partnership with Toronto Metropolitan University. This important research explores the lived experiences of Canadians aged 50+ to inform policies that promote healthy aging.

●        Partnering with the Milken Institute: Manulife has supported the Milken Institute to advance thought leadership and research on some of the most critical issues shaping longevity and the future of health. Feeding Change's work and recent policy brief highlight opportunities for strengthening resilient fruit and vegetable production and integrating food into health interventions. The Future of Aging initiative and new report, Longevity Ready: A Systems Approach to Aging Well at Home, elevates solutions enabling current and future generations to prepare for longer, healthier lives in their homes and communities.

●        Longevity Symposiums: The Manulife and John Hancock Longevity Symposiums began in Boston two years ago and are now expanding globally. Recently, Manulife Singapore and Manulife Philippines hosted inaugural events in Asia, bringing together healthcare experts, industry leaders, financial consultants, customers, and partners—to explore how people can live not just longer, but better. John Hancock will host its third Longer. Healthier. Better. Longevity Symposium in the U.S. in April 2026.

The launch of the Longevity Institute quickly follows John Hancock’s inaugural Longevity Preparedness Index — developed with MIT AgeLab, which measures how ready U.S. adults are to thrive as they age. This index will expand to cover Canada in future years and provides insights that support the need for continued longevity advancements and innovations.

Outcomes

The Longevity Institute will build upon Manulife’s existing efforts to help more than 36 million customers improve their health and wealth. This work aims to drive the following outcomes:

 

●       Health: Help people make everyday choices that support their physical, mental, and emotional well-being—through better nutrition, early detection, movement, and mental health support that fits into real life.

●     Wealth: Empower people to feel confident about their financial future, with tools, education, and support that help them weather life’s ups and downs and build lasting financial security.

A comprehensive list of the Institute’s work and partnerships to date can be found in this fact sheet. The Institute will be known as the John Hancock Longevity Institute in the United States. For more information on the Longevity Institute, and to stay up to date on the Institute’s actions, insights, and events through 2030, visit Manulife.com/Longevity.  

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^[1] World Economic Forum

InnovationOne expands brand solutions through VIU Philippines

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Unlocks Fresh Advertising Opportunities in Premium Asian Content

A full-service digital marketing agency and the dedicated digital arm of United Neon Media Group, InnovationOne has formed a collaboration with VIU, one of Asia’s leading OTT streaming platforms, to offer brands a powerful new avenue for highly targeted and culturally relevant advertising placements and integrated omnichannel marketing campaigns.

InnovationOne, Inc Managing Director Raphael T. Layosa and VIU Philippines Country Head Vicente Sy-Quia (center) seal the partnership with a handshake after the ceremonial signing of partnership agreement with witnesses VIU Philippines Channel Revenue and Partnerships Head Torto Canga (left) and United Neon Advertising Inc. Chief Commercial Officer Michael San G. Mendoza (right)

From L-R: VIU Philippines Channel Revenue and Partnerships Head Torto Canga, InnovationOne Inc. Managing Director Raphael T. Layosa, VIU Philippines Country Head Vicente Sy-Quia, and United Neon Advertising Inc. Chief Commercial Officer Michael San G. Mendoza.

This association enables InnovationOne to directly offer ad inventory and branded content integrations within VIU Philippines’ growing library of premium Asian content—ranging from top Korean dramas and variety shows to VIU Originals and regionally produced titles. With a strong footprint in the Philippines, Viu provides advertisers access to an engaged audience that is young, digital-first, and highly receptive to storytelling-led campaigns.

“Filipinos are among the world’s biggest consumers of Korean and Asian entertainment, and VIU has become a staple platform for that audience,” said Raphael Layosa, Managing Director of InnovationOne. “This engagement gives brands an unmatched opportunity: to appear alongside content that audiences are emotionally invested in—just as they’re streaming, binge-watching, and talking about it online.”

InnovationOne, digital arm of marketing powerhouse United Neon Media Group (UNMG) partners with VIU Philippines to unlock innovative advertising opportunities for brands. From L to R: VIU Philippines Channel Revenue and Partnerships Head Torto Canga, VIU Philippines Country Head Vicente Sy‑Quia, UNMG Deputy COO Benjamin O. Lim, InnovationOne Managing Director Raphael T. Layosa, UNMG IBIDA Officer Abbie Lim, and UNMG Chief Commercial Officer Michael San G. Mendoza.

Benjamin Lim, Deputy COO of United Neon Media Group, the umbrella organization of InnovationOne, emphasized the value of the arrangement, saying: "This arrangement with VIU aligns with our mission to push the boundaries of modern advertising. Streaming has become the new primetime, and brands need to show up where culture is being shaped in real time. Through InnovationOne, we’re giving advertisers not just media space, but cultural access—powered by data, content, and a deep understanding of what audiences love."

The collaboration comes at a time when Philippine viewers are rapidly shifting from traditional TV to streaming platforms. VIU’s dual model—consisting of an ad-supported free tier and a premium subscription layer—further expands advertiser reach and audience diversity.

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About Innovation ONE

Innovation ONE is the full-service digital marketing agency and dedicated digital arm of the United Neon Media Group. As a digitally-native agency with deep expertise since 2011, the team specializes in conceptualizing and producing strategic online campaigns that deliver measurable business results.

Innovation ONE’s portfolio demonstrates a proven track record of delivering tangible outcomes for leading brands in the Automotive, Tech, and Retail sectors. The agency's end-to-end capabilities are anchored in three core pillars: Strategy and Analytics, Social Media Management, and Campaign & Creative Content Development. This integrated offering covers the full digital journey, from market research, brand strategy, and SEO to paid media, website UI/UX development, and influencer seeding, all supported by robust project management.

As a key part of the United Neon Media Group, Innovation ONE provides clients with a unique and powerful media advantage. This position allows for the seamless integration of high-performance digital strategies with extensive, large-scale out-of-home (OOH) capabilities, including 3D LED billboards, transit advertising, and live event production.

Restoring dignity in borrowing: Fuse Financing on breaking credit barriers for small businesses at AgriVerse 2025

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Fuse Financing, Inc., the lending arm of GCash, led a discussion on fair borrowing options for Filipino micro-retailers and agri-entrepreneurs at the recently concluded Agriverse Summit 2025 held in Pasay City. The event brought together agripreneurs, government officials, innovators, and small business owners to explore how technology can support business growth, boost agricultural productivity, and promote sustainable farming.

L-R) PARJV Grosolutions co-founder and Pamantasan ng Cabuyao VP planning, research and extension Dr. Jessica Domingo Rey; GCash VP and head of corporate communications and public affairs Gilda Maquilan; Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners founding and national president Ms. Elilyn S. Gadia; Fuse Financing Inc. chief product officer and strategy head Baby Aquino; and ASBF Philippines founding trustee and president Ms. Arlene Padua-Martinez

Organized by the Asia Small Business Federation (ASBF) and Philippine Association of Stores and Cardinderia Owners (PASCO), Fuse Financing chief product officer and strategy head Baby Aquino highlighted the company's commitment to restoring dignity and fairness to borrowing for the Filipino micro-retail and agricultural sector.

In a fireside chat "Digital Wallets, Local Markets: Unlocking Growth for Micro-Retail and Agribusiness," Aquino also shared how Fuse is redefining access to finance through digital technology. The company replaces exploitative informal lending with fast, fair, and transparent credit products that can be accessed real time, anytime, anywhere, through a mobile phone via your GCash e-wallet.

Fuse’s innovation lies in its end-to-end digital process. By using data-driven credit assessment and digital collection tools, the lender removes the need for physical documents or in-person applications. This allows MSMEs to access funds within minutes, validating what Aquino describes as "true empowerment."

As of the second quarter of 2025, Fuse has extended credit to 9.5 million Filipinos and disbursed P287 billion in loans. Fuse is able to extend credit to segments underserved by traditional institutions such as MSMEs and women, with one in three are small business owners and three in five borrowers are women while four out of five are from the masses (SEC C2DE), underscoring the company’s wide reach and deep impact on inclusion.

The lender’s suite of products is designed to meet the different financing needs of small entrepreneurs. GLoan offers larger cash loans for business owners of up to P350,000, to support their business capital and growth, while GLoan Sakto, a sachet-type loan, enables eligible customers to borrow for as low as Php 100- an ideal option for the regular customers or the “sukis” of sari-sari stores, instead of them constantly borrowing from sari-sari store owners. This also relieves them of the hassle of collecting those small loans owners. Often used as “pambale,” borrowing even as small as P100 can give customers who were traditionally sidelined by formal credit institutions, an opportunity to build a formal credit history. This approach helps everyday Filipinos transition from informal borrowing toward long-term, sustainable growth.

Aquino emphasized that Fuse’s mission is to make formal lending accessible to every Filipino entrepreneur. "’Yung philosophy kasi talaga ng GCash is to allow Filipinos to borrow with dignity. Dapat ‘yong mga produkto namin ay klaro, fair, and transparent. (GCash operates on a philosophy that aims to allow Filipinos to borrow with dignity. Our products are clear, fair, [and] transparent),” she said.

Aquino concluded that the future of small businesses in the Philippines, especially in the agri-tech sector, depends on three essentials: access to finance, access to markets, and access to technology. Through digital innovation, Fuse and GCash aim to make these opportunities available to every Filipino entrepreneur.

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

Fuse Financing highlights importance of partnerships in scaling credit access to the unbanked

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Fuse Financing, Inc., the lending arm of the Philippines’ leading finance super app and largest cashless ecosystem GCash, underscored the importance of innovative financing structures at the 5th Asia Finance Forum, hosted by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) at its headquarters in Manila.

The forum highlighted a critical industry pain point: fintech companies face capital constraints that limit their ability to scale, as traditional debt markets remain restrictive. This bottleneck slows progress in extending credit to the underbanked and unbanked, ultimately curbing economic inclusion.

Addressing this challenge, Gabby Lacuesta, chief financial officer of Fuse, joined the panel discussion “Financing Growth: Unlocking Co-Lending, Capital Markets & Risk-Sharing for Fintechs.” Moderated by Apurva Kumar, senior investment specialist at ADB, the session also featured Irem Sayeed, chief risk officer at UGRO Capital; Fernanda Lima, partner at LeapFrog; and Luke Boland, head of Fintech Asia at Standard Chartered Bank.

The panel discussion underscored how co-lending and off-book funding partnerships create a synergistic relationship between fintechs and banks. Through the model, banks gain a vital deployment channel that reaches underserved customers, while fintechs like Fuse are able to cycle capital more quickly and extend their market reach. Fuse leverages the GCash ecosystem, which serves eight out of ten Filipinos, as a foundation to connect partner institutions with communities often excluded from traditional lending systems.

Lacuesta highlighted that building confidence across the entire lending process is the key to unlocking funding partnerships. "For GCash, the essential unlock was demonstrating to our partners that the end-to-end system—from acquisition and underwriting to collections and recoveries—is consistently effective, reliable, and working really well," he said.

The panelists also discussed the dynamic balance between on- and off-balance sheet lending, which shifts with market conditions and investor appetite. In practice, this balance ensures lending remains both sustainable and responsive to economic realities.

Beyond credit risk, the conversation emphasized operational and strategic risks, particularly in an environment where fintech platforms manage sensitive data at massive scale. With the reach of GCash extending to most of the country’s population, protecting customer information is a central priority and one of the most salient operational risks in digital lending. Managing these risks effectively ensures that co-lending models remain viable, efficient, and trusted.

Reflecting on Fuse’s trajectory, Lacuesta highlighted the importance of financial discipline in pursuing growth. “Where we are now would not have been possible without the different avenues for funding that we raised and developed along the way, including off-book lending,” he said. “For GCash, the experience has been really about balance.”

The Asia Finance Forum’s theme, “Bridging Financial Technology, Trust, and Regulation,” provided an essential venue to discuss regulatory frameworks that enable sustainable co-lending and other innovative financing structures. Regulators broadly support these models because of their potential to efficiently channel capital to the real economy, particularly underserved markets such as small businesses and low-income households.

By advancing co-lending and other innovative models, Fuse is committed to expanding opportunities for Filipinos and strengthening financial inclusion in Asia’s fast-growing economies.

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

Manulife Brings Personalized Gut Health Insights to the Philippines

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Empowering Filipinos to take control of their health through science-backed innovation

Manulife is introducing a new health initiative in the Philippines that offers personalized gut microbiome screening through its collaboration with AMILI, Southeast Asia’s first microbiome insights company.

In the Philippines, this partnership is especially timely. According to the 2025 Asia Care Survey, 82% of Filipinos cite rising healthcare costs as their top concern, and many feel uncertain about their ability to maintain physical and financial well-being in the future. The screening provided by AMILI helps address these anxieties by offering science-backed, preventive care that supports better health outcomes and reduces long-term medical risks.

"At Manulife Philippines, we are focused on delivering innovative solutions that support the evolving health needs of Filipinos," said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. "This collaboration with AMILI allows us to offer a unique health experience that goes beyond traditional insurance, empowering our customers to take a proactive approach to their health."

Manulife customers in the Philippines will now be able to access a personalized gut health screening designed specifically for Asian populations. The service includes tailored nutrition recommendations and teleconsultation to help interpret results. This empowers customers to better understand their health and take preventive steps to improve immunity, brain function, heart health and overall longevity. The service also provides a meaningful way to address rising health concerns in the Philippines by showing how Manulife delivers on its promise to support longer, healthier lives—through early detection, personalized care, and preventive action that can help reduce long-term healthcare costs for individuals and the system

"Our goal is to be a true partner in our customers' health journey—not just by helping them prepare financially, but also by giving them access to tools, services, and support for prevention, care, and overall well-being," said Grace Mallabo, Chief Health and Product Officer, Manulife Philippines. "By integrating personalized health insights into our offerings, we are helping Filipinos make informed decisions and improve their quality of life."

AMILI’s screening leverages the region’s largest multi-ethnic gut microbiome database, delivering insights that support digestive health, immunity, mental well-being, and chronic disease prevention.

"We’re proud to support Manulife’s customers in the Philippines with actionable, science-backed health insights," said Dr. Jeremy Lim, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder, AMILI. "This partnership is a step forward in making predictive, preventive care more accessible across Southeast Asia."

This initiative in the Philippines is an expansion of the First-in-Asia Gut Microbiome Screening collaboration between Manulife and AMILI, launched in 2024 in Singapore. It is part of Manulife’s broader strategy to support health and longevity through value-added offerings across Asia, helping customers take control of their health in meaningful ways.

Details on the collaboration between Manulife Philippines and AMILI can be accessed at https://www.manulife.com.ph/services/manulife-move.html.

Home Credit Brings Abot-Kayang Asenso with Aling Puring Credit Card

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Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), the country’s leading consumer finance company, has partnered with Puregold’s Tindahan ni Aling Puring (TNAP) community to launch the Aling Puring Credit Card powered by Home Credit.

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Aling Puring members can now shop with confidence with premium benefits and offers through the Aling Puring Credit Card   powered by Home Credit

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This partnership underscores a shared commitment to make financial wellness and progress more achievable for Filipinos—empowering families, resellers, and small business owners with greater confidence and control over their budgets.

Designed with the Aling Puring community in mind, the new credit card makes everyday grocery shopping easier, more flexible, and more rewarding across over 500+ Puregold stores nationwide.

“Our partnership with Puregold and Aling Puring goes beyond making shopping easier. It’s about empowering Filipinos by giving them access to financial tools that help make their everyday lives better,” said Zdenek Jankovsky, Chief Business Development Officer and Executive Director of Home Credit Philippines. “Through the Aling Puring Credit Card, we aim to provide Filipino shoppers and small business owners with a smarter, more flexible way to manage their budgets, handle finances confidently, and enjoy more value every time they shop.”

Empowering Every Filipino Shopper

The Aling Puring Credit Card powered by Home Credit is a Visa Classic Contactless card designed to make everyday spending more rewarding and worry-free. Whether restocking store inventory, buying household essentials, or managing daily needs, the card offers unmatched convenience, flexibility, and protection.

Cardholders can enjoy:

· Double points when shopping in any of the 500+ Puregold stores nationwide – earn 2 points for every ₱200 spent, helping them save and earn rewards faster.

· Up to ₱100,000 credit limit and up to 45 days of interest-free purchases for better budget control.

· ₱200 monthly membership fee that unlocks comprehensive protection benefits, including:

o Card protection insurance covering 120% of the outstanding balance.

o ₱500 daily hospital cash benefit and ₱50,000 supplementary health coverage.

o 24/7 telemedicine access, providing peace of mind for health security.

New cardholders can also enjoy a 5% rebate (up to ₱500) on purchases within the first 30 days after activation, along with exclusive Home Credit promotions and special perks for added savings.

Driving Financial Inclusion Together

The collaboration between Home Credit and Tindahan ni Aling Puring (TNAP) community reflects a shared mission to empower Filipino families and small business owners through accessible financial tools and opportunities.

TNAP is Puregold’s customized loyalty and membership program for resellers—sari-sari store owners, karinderyas, canteens, caterers, bulk buyers, wholesalers, and other entrepreneurs. It serves as an avenue for Puregold to fulfill its mission of providing products, services, and business opportunities to Filipino families. Through TNAP, Puregold cultivates loyalty and belonging, helps augment family income, offers free trainings and seminars, and connects start-up businesses with micro-financing institutions—truly fulfilling a promise of partnership and progress in every community.

“At Puregold, our mission has always been to help Filipino families and small business owners succeed,” said Antonio Delos Santos, Vice President for Operations of Puregold. “Through the Tindahan ni Aling Puring program, we’ve long championed our members’ entrepreneurial and financial growth. This partnership with Home Credit brings that purpose even further—making financial wellness more accessible to every Aling Puring member.”

The Aling Puring Credit Card powered by Home Credit is more than just a financial tool—it’s a partnership built on trust, empowerment, and shared progress. With Home Credit and Aling Puring, Abot-Kaya ang Asenso para sa bawat Pilipino.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph, or get the Home Credit App from Google Play, the App Store, or Huawei AppGallery. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.  

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).  

Golden Haven Pet Crematorium Now in Cebu

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Golden Haven proudly announces that its Pet Crematorium in Cebu City is now open and fully operational, extending compassionate memorial care for beloved pets to the Visayas region.

Located at Golden Haven Memorial Park, Binaliw, Cebu City, this is the company’s first pet crematorium in the Visayas and its third nationwide. The facility provides a dignified and respectful way for fur parents to bid farewell to their cherished companions, reflecting Golden Haven’s commitment to offering meaningful and compassionate aftercare services.

“As fur parents, we understand that pets are truly family,” says Ms. Emy Lustado, VisMin Operations Head. “Golden Haven Pet Crematorium ensures that owners have a place and a service through which they can say goodbye with love, dignity, and respect.”

With the opening of its Cebu facility, Golden Haven continues to uphold its Gold Standard in Memorial Care, providing world-class services not only for families but also for their loyal furbabies.

For inquiries, visit Golden Haven Pet Crematorium Cebu at Golden Haven Memorial Park, Binaliw, Cebu City, or call (0999) 226 3731. To learn more about Golden Haven and its services, visit www.goldenhaven.com.ph.