Cebuana Lhuillier’s Search for “Happiest Pinoy” Campaign Returns!

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The nationwide Search for the Happiest Pinoy returns and Cebuana Lhuillier continue to find and recognize the country’s most optimistic and passionate Filipinos who kept a good-natured demeanor while overcoming life’s challenges,

After a five-year break, Cebuana Lhuillier has officially relaunched one of its most beloved campaigns, the "Happiest Pinoy," marking the beginning of a new chapter in the search for joy and resilience among Filipinos. 

This year's revival of the campaign brings hope, inspiration, and optimism at a time when the need for such qualities has never been more apparent.

Jean Henri Lhuillier, Cebuana Lhuillier's President and CEO, expressed his excitement for the relaunch, emphasizing the strength of the Filipino spirit, which has toughened despite the challenges of recent years. 

"The last few years have been challenging for all of us, but through it all, the unique Filipino spirit-the same spirit we celebrate in this campaign-remained unbreakable. We've seen time and again that, despite adversity, Filipinos always find a reason to smile, to be hopeful, and to spread joy,"

Lhuillier said. He added that the "Happiest Pinoy" campaign shines a light on those who uplift others through their personal stories of optimism and resilience.

The "Happiest Pinoy" aims to celebrate Filipinos who rise above life's challenges and continue to spread positivity. The competition is open to Filipino citizens aged 13 and above, excluding Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). This year, the contest features several categories:

Masayahing Gen Z (Youth); Happy at 60 (Senior Citizens); No Way Kapansanan (PWD); Inspiradong Champion (Manggagawa or MNGGW); Bagong Bayani, Hatid Sigla (OFW); Bibo sa Negosyo (Entrepreneur); Proud as Pride (LGBTQIA+) and Creative Pinoy (Creative Arts). This year, the competition has also introduced Special Awards: Katutubo (TRIBO) and Happiest Ka-Cebuana.

In 2019, Zaldy Bueno, a 37 year old public school teacher from Gumaca Quezon won Cebuana Lhuillier's search for the Happiest Pinoy. Zaldy, representing the Professional Category, bested other finalists from different categories by virtue of his advocacy to see more children's lives change through education.

The grand winner of the search will receive a cash prize of PHP 500,000, with category winners receiving PHP 35,000 each. Special awards' winners will, meanwhile, receive, PHP 25,000 each.

Applicants can submit their stories via three methods:

• Video Submission: Submit a video entry by downloading the form from the "Happiest Pinoy" social media pages, filling it out, and sending the form along with the video to happiestpinoy2024@gmail.com 

• Google Form: Fill out the official form via the Happiest Pinoy's social media pages, providing the required details and sharing experiences of optimism and joy. 

• Cebuana Lhuillier Branches: Visit any Cebuana Lhuillier branch to get a physical copy of the form, fill it out, and return it to the nearest branch.

The return of the "Happiest Pinoy" competition is a significant moment for Cebuana Lhuillier and the country. As Lhuillier emphasized, this comeback is about more than just finding a winner; it is a celebration of the strength and happiness that define Filipinos. He said, "This campaign isn't just a search for an individual—it's a celebration of the strength and happiness that define us as a people."

With this relaunch, Cebuana Lhuillier hopes to continue sharing meaningful stories that uplift the Filipino spirit, demonstrating once again that, no matter the adversity, Filipinos will always choose to find happiness

Cebuana Lhuillier partners with NGO for digitalized loan disbursement

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Cebuana Lhuillier, the leading micro financial service provider in the Philippines, is proud to announce its partnership with Kabalikat para sa Maunlad na Buhay, Inc. (KMBI), a Microfinance Non-Government Organization (MF-NGO) dedicated to empowering low-income individuals.

In photo are : (L-R) KMBI Managers Hazel Christine Bayaca, Madelyn Frijillano Rachelle Basiya, KMBI President, Eduardo C. Jimenez. Cebuana Lhuillier President and CEO, Jean Henri Lhuillier, Senior Executive Vice President, Phillippe Andre Lhuillier, First Vice President and Money Transfer Group Head, Erl Sumanga, and Corporate Partnerships Division Head, Maricor Noche

This collaboration aims to streamline the loan disbursement process for KMBI's program members through digitalization, leveraging Cebuana's advanced platform for faster and more convenient transactions.

As part of this initiative, KMBI will issue Cebuana Microsavings 24k cards to its clients in branches under pilot, which double as ATM cards for receiving loan proceeds. These cards offer the added benefit of free withdrawals at any Cebuana Lhuillier branch, with no minimum maintaining balance required.

"Joining hands with KMBI, we embark on a journey of empowerment and transformation, reaching communities, changing lives, and creating a brighter future for all. Together, we amplify our impact, nurturing dreams, and building resilient pathways to prosperity. Our partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to uplift the underserved, empower the marginalized, and foster inclusive growth. With KMBI as our ally, we stand stronger, united in our mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve." Adds Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO Cebuana Lhuillier, in partnership with KMBI.

KMBI, known for its mission of providing financial services to marginalized sectors, particularly self-employed women often excluded from traditional banking services, finds a valuable ally in Cebuana Lhuillier's extensive network and efficient services.

"As we join forces with Cebuana Lhuillier, we ignite a beacon of hope, transforming aspirations into reality and bridging the gap to financial inclusion. Together, we embark on a journey of empowerment, extending our reach, and touching the lives of countless individuals and families across the nation. Our partnership with Cebuana Lhuillier symbolizes a shared vision of compassion, innovation, and progress. Through collaboration and synergy, we solidify our commitment to create opportunities for the underserved, elevate the marginalized, and build a more inclusive society. With Cebuana Lhuillier by our side, we are better able to create lasting impact and inspire holistic transformation in every community we touch.” Says KMBI President, Eduardo C. Jimenez, in partnering with Cebuana Lhuillier.

With over 3,500 branches nationwide, Cebuana Lhuillier ensures KMBI members swift, secure, and hassle-free access to their funds. This strategic partnership not only reinforces Cebuana's commitment to serving millions of Filipinos but also underscores its dedication to fostering financial inclusion.

By joining forces, CebuanaLhuillier and KMBI strengthen their shared vision of extending financial empowerment to all Filipinos, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey towards financial success.

Eduk-Aksyon : The Great Equalizer

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In a world where opportunities often favor the privileged few, Jean Henri Lhuillier, Consul General of San Marino and President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier, stands as a beacon of hope for a more equitable society. His steadfast belief in the transformative power of education is embodied in his mantra, "Always Love Schooling," a testament to his conviction that education serves as the great equalizer in society.

Lhuillier's commitment to bridging the gap in the Philippines led to the inception of "San Marino Cares: Fun Learning through Eduk-Aksyon," an initiative aimed at empowering marginalized communities. Launched at A Home for the Angels, an organization dedicated to neglected children in Manila, the program offers reading and comprehension classes using an award-winning book on adoption. By equipping children with knowledge and skills, Lhuillier endeavors to break the cycle of inequality and pave the way for a brighter future.

Education, for Lhuillier, is more than just a means of acquiring knowledge; it is a catalyst for social change. Through initiatives like "San Marino Cares," he seeks to create a society where equal opportunities abound. Recognizing the widening gap between the rich and the poor, Lhuillier champions education as the cornerstone of progress, offering hope to those in marginalized communities.

"Education is the great equalizer, and through initiatives like 'San Marino Cares,' we are dedicated to empowering marginalized communities. By providing children with the tools they need to succeed, we aim to break the cycle of inequality and create a brighter future for all." - Jean Henri Lhuillier

In a country where access to quality education remains a challenge, Lhuillier's efforts are paramount. By providing children with opportunities to learn and engage, he ensures that no child is left behind. Understanding that education instills not only knowledge but also confidence, he empowers individuals to shape their own destinies.

The initiative addresses a pressing issue in the Philippines: the inequality of opportunity. As educational disparities persist, so do unequal circumstances and opportunities. Lhuillier recognizes that education is not only a fundamental human right but also a powerful tool for social mobility and change.

For many Filipino children, education represents more than just a pathway to success—it is a lifeline. By investing in education, Lhuillier invests in the future of the nation, laying the groundwork for a more just and prosperous society.

As Lhuillier continues to champion education as the great equalizer, he reminds us that every child deserves the chance to dream, to learn, and to succeed. Through his unwavering dedication and commitment, he paves the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

Cebuana Lhuillier Elevates Commitment to Empowering Filipinos Through Alternative Learning Program

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Jean Henri Lhuillier and Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc. (CLFI) reaffirm their dedication to enhancing the lives of Filipinos through their impactful initiatives. At the forefront of this commitment is the Alternative Learning Program (ALS), a groundbreaking initiative in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd).

The company recognizes the imperative role of education in shaping competent and productive individuals. To achieve this, the Foundation has strategically positioned ALS Community Learning Centers (ALS-CLCs) across the country.

CLFI has successfully established 155 ALS-CLCs across 70 provinces and reached 60,000 learners, marking significant progress in its mission to address educational gaps and empower learners from various regions. But beyond these impressive figures, the ALS boasts a commendable 63.36% passing rate, a testament to its holistic approach and program offerings.

This success is fueled by the program’s comprehensive curriculum, coupled with the unwavering dedication of ALS educators, who receive full support from CLFI. The Foundation ensures that educators are equipped with the necessary resources and assistance to deliver quality education, further enhancing the impact of the program.

One of the ALS educators who exemplifies the positive impact of this support is Evie Madolid, an ALS Educator from Malabon. Madolid expressed deep gratitude for the invaluable assistance received from Cebuana Lhuillier, which fosters an environment where educators can inspire and guide learners effectively.

He said, “I’m very thankful to Cebuana Lhuillier for extending their help to the program, where they provided laptops, projectors, and other supplies that we can use to enhance the quality of our teaching."

“I feel so proud of my students and feel so fulfilled. They expressed their gratitude, saying that ALS has given them another chance to fulfill their dreams. Some of my students have reached out to me, sharing the good news of their achievements. I have a student who is now a police officer; some have become my co-teachers; others are now working abroad; and some have even started a small business. Finally, I can say that they really are successful,” he added.

This testament underscores Cebuana Lhuillier’s commitment not only to the learners but also to the educators, who play a pivotal role in shaping the success stories emerging from the ALS program. By providing comprehensive support, Cebuana Lhuillier ensures that ALS educators can continue to make a meaningful impact on the lives of their students, creating a ripple effect of positive change within communities.

“Education has always been deeply personal advocacy for me. I believe that it holds the key to unlocking the full potential of individuals and communities alike. To achieve this, it is essential to prioritize the empowerment of educators. They are the backbone of our education system, guiding and inspiring the next generation of changemakers. At Cebuana Lhuillier, we work tirelessly to ensure that they are equipped to deliver the highest standards of education,”said Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier.

Cebuana Lhuillier continues to be a beacon of hope, championing education and empowerment through its ALS program. By addressing the unique needs of out-of-school youth and adults, the company is making significant strides in shaping a brighter future for communities across the Philippines.

Cebuana Lhuillier and Jean Henri Lhuillier’s impact on uplifting Filipino lives through learning initiatives

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Cebuana Lhuillier and Jean Henri Lhuillier continue its commitment to uplifting Filipino lives through its impactful educational initiatives. With education at the forefront of their advocacy, these initiatives represent a transformative journey toward a brighter and more educated future for the Philippines.

Through its corporate social responsibility arm, Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc. (CLFI) leads the charge with its Nationwide Scholarship Program, providing support to intellectually gifted yet financially constrained students. Aside from the annual scholarship grant, the program offers employment opportunities in Cebuana Lhuillier’s parent company, PJ Lhuillier Inc. (PJLI), and provides additional learning resources to its scholars and learning sessions. In collaboration with 14 academic institutions all over the country, close to 1,000 graduate scholars have emerged nationwide. This not only opens doors for the scholars but also creates a ripple effect as they contribute to uplifting others through education.

Another of its initiatives is the Alternative Learning Program, which addresses the needs of out-of-school youth and adult learners across the Philippines. These ALS community learning centers (ALS-CLCs) empower individuals to complete basic education, transforming them into competent and productive members of society. Since it was established in 2013, 155 ALS-CLCs have been built across 70 provinces, reaching almost 60,000 ALS learners.

Jean Henri Lhuillier 

“I have always been a staunch advocate for education. At Cebuana Lhuillier, it is our firm belief that the journey of learning holds the key to transformative change, shaping destinies and creating a profound impact on individuals. Through our initiatives and programs, we strive to improve lives and contribute to the growth of a country built on the foundations of knowledge and empowerment,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier.

A shining example of success is Atty. Pia Faustino, a Ka-Cebuana who has been with the company for over 20 years now. Faustino was a CLFI scholar during her undergraduate years. Upon completing her degree, she received a job offer as the Administrative Assistant in the Legal Services Group (LSG) of PJLI. It was within this role that she discovered her passion for law, and with the unwavering support of her colleagues and bosses, she decided to pursue further studies.

Embracing the challenge, Faustino embarked on her remarkable journey through law school and in 2023, her dedication and hard work culminated in passing the Bar, earning her esteemed title of a lawyer.

“I’m very grateful to the Lhuillier family and all LSG Group Heads. Everyone has been so supportive, even my colleagues. Just last year, I passed the bar. Law school was not a walk in the park, I had my ups and downs, but I was determined to finish it and to pass the bar. Now, just fresh from passing the bar, I still crave learning and opportunities. I hope and pray to become a good lawyer,” said Faustino.

Faustino's trajectory from scholarship recipient to accomplished lawyer exemplifies the transformative power of educational support and the opportunities for growth that Cebuana Lhuillier and Jean Henri Lhuillier provides.

As Cebuana Lhuillier and Jean Henri Lhuillier continue to spearhead impactful initiatives, the vision for educational empowerment echoes far beyond the programs themselves. It resonates in the lives changed, the communities uplifted, and the promise of a brighter future for the Filipino people.

Empowering MSME’s with the Right Know-how with Cebuana Lhuillier’s Kanegosyo Coach

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Cebuana Lhuillier’s initiative to help support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) Kanegosyo Center is already earning raves only a few months after it was launched. An online one-stop-shop by the Philippines’ leading and largest microfinancial services company, the Kanegosyo Center teaches MSMEs how to grow their businesses and budding entrepreneurs how to jumpstart their own by guiding them every step of the way using proprietary products and services.

By simply registering online for free, successful registrants become lifetime Kanegosyo Center members and gain access to the Kanegosyo Center website. The website is the Kanegosyo Center member’s personal online one-stop shop that provides most of anything and everything needed for an entrepreneur to make a business grow, thrive, and survive.

One of the programs under the Kanegosyo Center that has enticed many MSMEs to sign up is the Kanegosyo Coach. The Kanegosyo Coach provides guidance to MSME owners and aspiring entrepreneurs to prepare and equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate through the different stages of managing a business. New business owners and even seasoned entrepreneurs can learn a lot from the Kanegosyo Coach workbooks and videos introducing topics such as Business Basics 101, Finance, Legal Aspects of a Business, Marketing, Digital Sales, and more.

Over the past few months, over 100,000 micro and small businesses have taken part in various Kanegosyo Coaching sessions throughout Luzon and Mindanao. These sessions, led by Business Coach Anthony Pangilinan, covered a range of essential topics, including Isip Negosyante: Inspirasyon sa Isip at Puso ng Negosyante; Negosyo 101: Mga Iba't Ibang Aspeto ng Negosyo; and Negosyanteng Wais: Mga Prinsipyo sa Pag-aalaga ng Pera ng Negosyo.

For those who can’t make it physically on site, the Kanegosyo Coach videos alone should be sufficient for them because they are relatively short, easy to understand, and, most of all, practical and easy to apply. Apart from Pangilinan, the videos feature industry experts like Ten Outstanding Young Men awardee Shawntel Nieto; Mr. Go Negosyo himself, Joey Concepcion; and Cebuana Lhuillier’s very own finance whizzes Cliff Cabungcal and Dennis Valdes, as well as marketing guru Mike Sena.

Cebuana Lhuillier President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier is most proud of the Kanegosyo Center: “Financial inclusion is at the heart of our business, and the Kanegosyo Center stands as a beacon of hope for Filipino MSMEs. Through its innovative initiatives, including the Kanegosyo Coach, Cebuana Lhuillier is not only fostering entrepreneurship but also promoting financial inclusivity. By providing access to knowledge, resources, and expert guidance, the Kanegosyo Center is empowering entrepreneurs to navigate the complex entrepreneurial landscape and make informed decisions."

“Having the vision, dedication, or capital to start a business is not enough to seal success for an entrepreneur. They also need to have all the bases covered, from finance to marketing and many more, so they can sustain their business. And we are just happy that the Kanegosyo Center and its Kanegosyo Coaches are here to help them out,” added Annette Tirol, Senior Vice President and Group Head for Customer Engagement and Market Development.

The Kanegosyo Center’s Kanegosyo Coach program is every entrepreneur’s must-have guide for each and every aspect of starting, running, and growing a business. MSME proprietors and prospective business owners should seize the opportunity at once and visit the Kanegosyo Center website at kanegosyocenter.com, register for free, and take advantage of the Kanegosyo Center’s invaluable Kanegosyo Coach program and other programs that Cebuana Lhuillier specifically designed to help MSMEs and start-ups grow and succeed.

Valuing Valuable Employees: The Cebuana Lhuillier Way

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Cebuana Lhuillier continues its tradition of acknowledging and honoring its dedicated and loyal employees. President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier, Senior Executive Vice President Philippe Andre Lhuillier, and Chief Administrative Officer Jo-Ann Tacorda stand alongside the esteemed loyalty awardees at the Brillo 2023 Event.

Cebuana Lhuillier has changed many people’s lives through the many products and services they offer. From a humble pawnshop to being one of the biggest microfinance companies in the Philippines, Cebuana Lhuillier has become synonymous with the words trust and reliability as it continues to financially empower Filipinos across the nation.

But in no place has the impact of Cebuana Lhuillier been more felt than within the confines of the company, where many of their employees have stayed for years and, in some instances, decades. And throughout their decades of service, they are grateful to Cebuana Lhuillier, who inspired their growth by imparting new knowledge and skills, applauding and giving them recognition, and showing that they are valued and cared for like a true family.

Recognition and Promotions

Ricardo Cruz has been with the company for more than 35 years and has been a dedicated Area Head since 1998. Before his journey in Cebuana Lhuillier, Rey completed a degree in Business Administration with a Major in Management, and started his professional journey as a filing clerk. But fate led him to Cebuana Lhuillier, where his mother worked as a building caretaker for Agencia Cebuana. After passing the exams, Rey worked as a humble messenger and janitor at Agencia Cebuana Baclaran Branch. Among the many memories, Rey cherishes two significant milestones: he was appointed as an Area Head back in 1998 and won the highly coveted Best Area of the Year award. These moments of recognition and achievement fueled his motivation and inspired him to work hard for over three decades.

"I am incredibly proud, grateful, and privileged to have been a part of this company for over 35 years. The most rewarding aspect of working at Cebuana has definitely been the continuous learning and personal growth I've experienced, which I've also had the privilege to share with my fellow Ka-Cebuanas. And I’m thankful to be part of this family. Because of Cebuana Lhuillier, I'm able to provide a comfortable life for my family," said Cruz.

Marilyn Valencia, a dedicated member of the company for more than 35 years, holds a remarkable background. She is the Area Head for Region 1A, and her journey as a Ka-Cebuana has been filled with numerous achievements and significant milestones. During her tenure with Cebuana Lhuillier, she managed to earn 21 units in education and became a licensed teacher. Not stopping there, she also pursued and successfully completed her Master's in Business Administration at UE Manila, all while dedicating herself to the organization.

In addition to her educational achievements, Marilyn's dedication has led her to be appointed as one of the first Area Heads in 1996. In this role, she took on the responsibility of overseeing branches in the entire Northern provinces, CAMANAVA, and parts of Manila and Pasay City. This included the rare opportunity to spearhead the opening of over 100 branches, a significant contribution to local employment and the training of new branch personnel.

An Advocate for Continuous Learning

Grace Ferolino, Business and Client Relations Manager of Region 4A, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. While she had various previous career opportunities, Ferolino eventually found a home in Cebuana Lhuillier and has been with the company for over 30 years. Among her countless experiences within Cebuana, Grace cherishes the memory of being selected for intensive diamond training at Gemlab and having the privilege to undergo Area Manager's training. For her fellow employees aspiring for longevity in the company, Grace emphasizes the importance of loving one's work and serving it with utmost honesty; treating the business as one's own; and mastering financial management to eliminate unnecessary debt.

Aurora Genilo, Business and Client Relations Manager of Region 1A, is another exemplary employee who has dedicated over 30 years of her life to serving Cebuana Lhuillier. A graduate of BS Commerce Accounting, she holds her days as cluster leader and her involvement with the esteemed manning team closest to her heart. These roles, according to her, allowed her to nurture her leadership skills and actively contribute to the growth and success of the company. By working hard, she was able to ensure the education of her three children, one of whom has etched their own path within the company.

"My journey of 30 years with Cebuana Lhuillier has been a transformative one. Not only did it enable me to provide for my own family, but it also provided me with numerous opportunities to develop my skills and advance in my career. I'm profoundly grateful for the continuous opportunities that Cebuana Lhuillier extends to all of its employees, including me," expressed Genilo.

Region 5’s Business and Client Relations Manager, Imelda Quidato, has been with Cebuana Lhuillier for more than 30 years. With a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, she first ventured into the world of sales as a promodiser before becoming a part of the Cebuana Lhuillier family. When asked about the best part of working for Cebuana, Imelda cited the skills she acquired in appraising and attending enriching training programs, which played a pivotal role in molding her both personally and professionally.

An Open and Compassionate Heart

Armed with a degree in Aircraft Technology, Abelardo Aquino Jr. took a leap of faith and applied for a job at Cebuana Lhuillier over 30 years ago. As the Area Head of Region 3, he reveals that the best part about working for Cebuana is the opportunity to interact with diverse individuals and tackle challenging situations head-on. He emphasized the significance of maintaining a positive mindset and embracing a "can-do" attitude. With determination and perseverance, one can overcome any obstacle and forge a lasting and fulfilling career at Cebuana Lhuillier.

At Cebuana Lhuillier, employee appreciation is a top priority. The company demonstrates this commitment through comprehensive training programs, fostering a healthy company culture, and recognizing and celebrating exceptional employee contributions. This culture of appreciation, value, and nurturing is what sets Cebuana Lhuillier apart.

GCash, Cebuana Lhuillier strengthen partnership with over 30,000 agents nationwide

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Partnership to enable wider cash-in/cash-out, money remittance services

GCash, the Philippines’ leading mobile wallet, and Cebuana Lhuillier, the leading microfinance service provider in the country, are strengthening their partnership through the expansion of service distribution network and the introduction of domestic remittance transfers soon to be available via GCashPadala app.

From left to right: Jose Luis Reyes – Vice President – Head of Enterprise & Public Sector (Gcash), WinsleyBangit – Chief Customer Officer (GCash), Ambassador Philippe Jones Lhuillier – Chairman and Founder (Cebuana Lhuillier), FilemonCabungcal – Chief Financial Officer (Cebuana Lhuillier), and Stephen Yap – Head of Domestic Sales (Cebuanna Lhuillier).

Starting December, millions of Filipinos will be able to receive money via GCashPadala and do cash-in/cash-out transactions at over 3,000Cebuana Lhuillier branches, 26,500 corporate agents doors, and 1,900 retail agents, nationwide.

“At GCash, we strive to continuously offer safe and convenient services that will cater to the needs of every Filipino wherever they are, especially during the new normal. Cash In and Cash Out services are now easier and more accessible with more than 30,000 agents nationwide. Together with Cebuana Lhuillier which has been working with GCash for many years now, we will continue to innovate in order to make the lives of Filipinos better every day. With the upcoming activation of GCashPadala, sending money to loved ones will soon be made easier for families across the country. The funds are easily received via Cash In and Cash Out at the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier,” said GCash president and CEO Martha Sazon.

“We boast our wide network reach with our more than 3,000 brick-and-mortar branches nationwide that enable Filipinos to have a hassle-free and easier access to money transfer services. We always believe that by partnering with reliable and trusted companies such as GCash, we will be able to pursue our mission of financial inclusion for all our kababayansfrom all walks of life and wherever they may be,” Cebuana Lhuillier president and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier added.

Cebuana Lhuillier’s head of money transfer business Erlinda M. Sumanga believes that their partnership with GCash has helped Filipinos adjust to the evolving money transfer services, especially during and post-pandemic.

“Over the course of our partnership with GCash, we were able to respond to Filipinos’ need for an efficient means of sending money, which was more pronounced ever since the pandemic. We are excited for this new partnership milestone with GCash and we are looking forward to see how we can further help our clients here and abroad to make money remittance services flexible, secured, and faster,” Sumanga said.

Not yet on GCash? You can download the GCash app for free on the Google Play or App Store.

For more information, visit www.gcash.com.

Cebuana Lhuillier, its CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier receive Golden Bridge and Quill recognitions

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Lhuillier and company receive prestigious acknowledgements for their innovations in financial inclusion and strategic creative communications

COMMITTED TO SERVICE EXCELLENCE. Cebuana Lhuillier and its President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier once again bagged multiple business awards from local and international award-giving bodies.

 

The country’s leading micro financial services provider, Cebuana Lhuillier, along with its President & CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier continued their winning streak with newly-badged recognitions from the Golden Bridge Business and Innovations Awards and the Philippine Quill Awards.

 

The company received 17 distinctions from Golden Bridge, including the Grand Globee Award which is bestowed to companies with the most number of wins for the year. Meanwhile, Jean Henri Lhuillier received four awards— including the Lifetime Achievement Award, Maverick of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, and Executive Achievement of the Year. All four titles are indicative of the high caliber leadership exemplified by Cebuana Lhuillier’s chief executive.

 

The company also made strides as it accounted majority of the awards, with 10 distinctions comprising Gold award for Comms Campaign of the year, Best Corporate Brochure, and Best Annual Report categories for its yearly publication, Benedizioni. Its Mother’s Day 2021 social media campaign, “Dakilang Ina”, also won the Gold across three categories. The company’s year-ender event, “Humans of Cebuana Lhuillier”, also received two more gold awards.

 

Additionally, Cebuana Lhuillier was awarded with four Quill awards this year in recognition of its various communications campaigns, covering various channels such as internal communications, digital, and public relations.

 

Michael Sena, Integrated Marketing and Communications Group Head of Cebuana Lhuillier

 

“These wins are proof of our continuous efforts to strive for excellence not only as the leading player in the micro financial services industry; but inherently, in all that we do as one organization. Guided by our corporate values, our commitment to excellence has allowed us to always push the boundaries on what we can accomplish—not only on the products and services we offer, but also on how we communicate and engage the public,” Lhuillier said.

 

Other big winners include the company’s internal COVID-19 response publication, Ka-Cebuana Healthwatch, “Tulong sa Pagbangon”, its very own CSR response during Typhoon Odette, as well as its pawning web platform, Cebuana-from-Home.

Michael Sena, Cebuana Lhuillier’s Integrated Marketing and Communications Group Head, puts emphasis on the important role that communications play in engaging, empowering, and inspiring people. “As an organization, we believe in the power of strategic and impactful communications in order to reach our desired audience and inspire them into action. We aim to tell the stories of the people we serve, and use this as a driving force to fulfill Cebuana Lhuillier’s commitment of pushing for financial inclusion.”

Jean Henri Lhuillier was also recently named as “Master Innovator” during the recently-concluded 2^nd Mansmith Innovation Awards where he and the company were cited for the various tech-oriented breakthroughs of the company’s micro insurance products.

Jean Henri Lhuillier named as one of this year’s Master Innovator by Mansmith Innovation Awards

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Jean Henri Lhuillier, the President & CEO of micro financial services giant Cebuana Lhuillier, was recently named as a “Master Innovator for 2022” by the Mansmith Innovation Awards, an award-giving body organized by Mansmith & Fielders, the country’s leading training and consultancy company.

 Cebuana Lhuillier President & CEO gets the nod for changing the face of micro insurance in the country through a brilliant fusion of brick and tech strategy

Lhuillier was cited for revolutionizing the face of micro insurance in the Philippines—thanks to his ground-breaking work in making micro insurance more relevant in the lives of Filipinos. Based on the latest statistics, only 53.7M out of 111M Filipinos are covered by insurance. To date, 31% of the insured Filipinos was contributed by Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Insurance, the biggest attributor to date as cited by the Insurance Commission.

Cebuana Lhuillier captured the interest of the market especially from low-income communities by offering affordable micro insurance products that can be easily purchased in any of Cebuana Lhuillier’s over 3,000 branches nationwide, while also putting systems in place for easier claims payout through the same branches. This was made possible by Lhuillier’s keen support and commitment in the application of tech innovations as a means to augment Cebuana Lhuillier’s wide network of branches and partners nationwide.

“The true mark of being a financially-included Filipino is having access to the most basic financial services that are essential in our everyday lives. This includes protection against illnesses, emergencies, and uncertain situations brought by disasters or natural calamities. For 40 million Filipinos, this is made possible by Cebuana Lhuillier micro insurance,” shares Jean Henri Lhuillier, President & CEO, Cebuana Lhuillier. 

Lhuillier adds, “For the past two years, Cebuana Lhuillier focused on its transition as a TechBrick company in order to ensure accessibility and convenience for our clients whenever they avail or use any of our products. We do this by expanding our network reach through physical branches while also taking advantage of proprietary technology through the development of new apps and digital channels that will bring our products and services closer to many Filipinos. In the case of our micro insurance product, we started by making sure it’s affordable and can be easily purchased by any of our kababayans regardless of their stature in life. We then made sure it’s available for purchase nationwide, in any Cebuana Lhuillier branch in the Philippines.”

From these two basic foundations, Lhuillier further expanded by pushing for more tech innovation that further elevated his micro insurance offerings. This included the unveiling of ProtectNow in 2019, a web-based platform which aggregates the best possible insurance options for their home, auto, travel, and family insurance needs coming from some of the credible insurance companies in the Philippines; the introduction of Claims PayOut Anywhere, which allowed clients to process their claims in any Cebuana Lhuillier branch nationwide; and finally, working together with online market places like Lazada and Shopee which made buying micro insurance as easy as getting as buying something from an online store.

However, it should be noted that micro insurance is just one aspect of Lhuillier’s mission in building a nation of financially-included Filipinos. Under Cebuana Lhuillier, the country’s number one micro financial services provider, Lhuillier has been the forefront of implementing the “TECHBRICK” strategy, taking advantage of their network of more than 3,000 branches nationwide with 25,000 domestic partner doors, and 3 million partner locations globally and marrying it with technological innovations as a means to further bring the micro financial services industry to the next level.

Utilizing the concept of “TechBrick”, a term Lhuillier coined himself, his vision allowed Cebuana Lhuillier and its products and services such as pawning, money transfer, micro insurance, jewelry selling, along with micro savings, a product of it banking arm Cebuana Lhuillier Bank, to maintain its relevance by ensuring availability and access regardless of channels: whether in brick-and-mortar stores, through the development of super apps, and web platforms.

The synergy between the tech and brick capability allowed Cebuana Lhuillier to empower its clients to move seamlessly and to maximize use of its products and services from offline to online.

For Lhuillier, his push for unremitting innovation remains at the core of the organization as it sets its sights into becoming a more future-ready organization. He adds, “The world and along with it, the needs of our Ka-Cebuanas, are constantly changing and evolving. However, what remains consistent is to ensure that Filipinos remain on track towards financial-inclusion and financial mobility. To that, Cebuana Lhuillier will continue to hold on to its promise of being a partner for every one of our kababayans—constantly evolving, innovating, and maintaining our relevance for the years to come.”

 

DITO broadens telco services with new partnership with Cebuana Lhuillier

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Cebuana Lhuillier, one of the country’s largest and leading microfinance services company, has teamed up with the new major telco player, DITO Telecommunity in expanding its services to Filipinos.

Mobile phone users may now reload their DITO sim cards in over 3,000 branches of Cebuana Lhuillier, nationwide.

This tie-up adds to the convenient services of Cebuana Lhuillier in its push for Filipinos’ access to financial requirements such as basic utility needs.

Cebuana Lhuillier CEO and President, Jean Henri Lhuillier said that this partnership is a new milestone for the company as telecommunications business is considered to be a huge industry in the Philippines, being the “Text Capital of the World.”

“We always look forward to growing our relationship with different industries and having this partnership with one of the key players in the telecoms industry, would expand our services and products in the future.” Lhuillier said.

“We are excited to see what other collaborations and projects we can work on as we venture into this tie-up”.

As DITO continues to establish more partnerships with various retail channels, brands, and businesses, tapping big companies like Cebuana Lhuillier could intensify their market presence and widen their coverage.

"Our partnership with Cebuana Lhuillier is aligned with DITO's goal to make better telco products and services more available to the Filipinos. We believe the very capable infrastructure, good will, and reputation of our partner is critical to achieving that goal," said DITO Telecommunity Chief Commercial Officer, Evelyn Jimenez.

As mobile phone users continue to grow with 89% of its customers being prepaid service users, the need for easier access to reloading facilities is more pronounced.

“The pandemic highlighted the needs of our kababayans for an established means of communication in daily activities - whether it’s staying online or through phone calls and texts. It has been a priority to stay connected and this brings a bigger opportunity for us to cater to them by offering reloading services to our branches across the country,” Lhuillier said.

With more than 4,100 towers servicing more than 8 million subscribers, DITO is now available in over 500 cities and municipalities in the country, with 83,000 sales touchpoints nationwide.

As DITO Telecommunity continues on its first year campaign, it has recently rolled-out newest telco innovations—DITO Auto Pay and DITO Advance Pay—that give maximum flexibility and worry-free convenience to its subscribers. These latest innovations make the five (5) new DITO Level Up Packs stronger, more flexible and more value driven than ever before! For as low as P713 for a 1 year DITO promo subscription with a total of 96GB of Data. Visit https://dito.ph/level-up-promos to learn more about DITO’s expanded and enhanced product lineup.

Stay tuned for more updates on our points of sale, data offers, and other details, by visiting the official Facebook page of DITO at www.facebook.com/DITOphofficial or the website at www.dito.ph.

Bayad and Cebuana Lhuillier Intensifies Partnership By Offering Real-Time Bills Payment Services

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Bayad, the trusted multi-channel payment platform provider in the Philippines and Meralco’s full service fintech subsidiary has intensified its partnership with Cebuana Lhuillier, one of the leading micro financial service provider companies in the Philippines. Through its proactive alliance, Bayad enables Meralco bills payment in over 3,000 Cebuana Lhuillier branches across the country.

Apart from Meralco, Cebuana Lhuillier targets to onboard more biller brands through Bayad’s extensive network of biller partners that will eventually extend across Cebuana Lhuillier’s digital platform, enabling an easier, more efficient, more convenient, and seamless one-stop shop solution for its clients.

Bayad President and CEO, Lawrence Y. Ferrer shared “Bayad’s partnership with Cebuana Lhuillier ultimately amplifies our vision of elevating the quality of living of Filipinos as we usher in more real time bills payment services. We are committed to empower businesses like Cebuana Lhuillier by sharing our vision and strategy in advocating for digital financial inclusion”.

Cebuana Lhuillier President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier also stressed. “Cebuana Lhuillier has always been committed to offer convenient micro financial solutions to our clients, and partnering with the biggest and widest multi-channel payment platform in the country will surely optimize one of our essential services. As we continue to expand our network and improve our digital payment facilities, we will provide our clients more convenient options for their bills payment needs.”

For fintech institutions that are interested to be part of Bayad’s extensive channel network, you may send an email to partnerships@bayad.com or call at +63 998 963 7880. Bayad enables partners to attain a nationwide presence and provides end-to-end support services for efficient payment and collection processing.

Surprise your Mom with something precious this Mother’s Day with Cebuana Lhuillier’s nationwide jewelry sale

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Celebrate her day with an item as precious as she is!

Celebrate Mother’s Day in the most special way by treating your moms to choice pieces offered by Cebuana Lhuillier’s Mother’s Day Jewelry Sale. With a wide variety of jewelry pieces at affordable, discounted prices, the week-long affair will run from May 6 to 14 across over 3,000 Cebuana Lhuillier branches, Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry Premium and, Just Jewel branches, nationwide.

Get 10% off on all items and up to 50% discount on selected items when you buy in any Cebuana Lhuillier branches or get up to 15% off on selected jewelry items when you buy in any Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry Premium and Just Jewels branches, nationwide!

You can also avail discounts when you shop online through Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry Online, Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry Premium website, Lazada, Shopee, and Zalora or watch out for Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry community pages for Facebook Live Selling.

“Cebuana Lhuillier celebrates all moms for their tireless efforts and everlasting care and love. This Mother’s Day, be sure to make her day extra special by giving her something that could last a lifetime. Remember that jewelry items are not just fancy accessories but this is also a good investment – a perfect gift for every occasion,” Cebuana Lhuillier President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier said.

To know more about Cebuana Lhuillier’s Mother’s Day Sale, go to the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier, Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry Premium, and Just Jewels branches or log on to Cebuana Lhuillier’s official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/cebuanalhuillierpawnshop or visit cebuanalhuillierjewelry.com and cebuanalhuillierjewelrypremium.com

Cebuana Lhuillier offers respite to Filipinos with PERA PADALOWEST RATES promo

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According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the prices of goods in the country continued to increase. This includes cost of food items, electricity, transportation, LPG, and diesel which saw a significant jump amidst the rise of oil prices.

To offer Filipinos ease, Cebuana Lhuillier announced its PERA PADALOWEST RATES promo, allowing clients to send money anywhere in the Philippines for only P1 for every P100 money sent. The promo is available in any of Cebuana Lhuillier’s more than 3,000 branches across the country. Meanwhile, clients can also send money for free through the micro-savings account linked to their eCebuana app to any Cebuana Lhuillier branches; or via branch-to-branch transactions.

“Cebuana Lhuillier understands how important every peso is and making money sending fees more affordable helps our kababayans extend their money for more important expenses. By offering our PERA PADALOWEST promo, we hope to provide Filipinos with a more affordable means to send their hard-earned money to anywhere in the Philippines. This remains part of our commitment for financial inclusion in which we continue to be one with our fellow Filipinos in finding affordable, effective, and convenient solutions for their financial services needs,” Cebuana Lhuillier president & CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier shared.

“As the country’s leading micro financial services provider and as leading innovator in the industry, Cebuana Lhuillier will continue to find new ways to make transacting with Cebuana Lhuillier always a win-win experience for our kababayans. Aside from our products and services, we will continue to come up with promotions that will bring further bang for our clients’ bucks – especially during these difficult times when the price of goods is going up,” added First VP and Integrated Marketing Communications Group head Michael Sena.

Cebuana Lhuillier’s PERA PADALOWEST RATES promo will run until July 31, 2022. For more information, visit the Cebuana Lhuillier page on Facebook or go to www.CebuanaLhuillier.com.

Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation makes education accessible to grassroots communities with 100th ALS Center

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Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation, Inc. (CLFI) launched its 100th Alternative Learning System-Community Learning Center (CLC) in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division of Marawi City

REBUILDING RESILIENT COMMUNITIES THROUGH EDUCATION. Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation (CLFI) supports the rehabilitation of Marawi by providing learning tools and devices in Amai Pakpak Central Elementary School (APCES) for its alternative learning sessions. In the photo: (L-R) Fatime Mognie, Chief of the Curriculum Implementation Division; Anna Zenaida Unte-Alonto, OIC of Schools Division Superintendent; Amai Pakpak Central Elementary School teachers and ALS educators.

Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation, Inc. (CLFI), the social responsibility arm of Cebuana Lhuillier, the largest micro financial service provider in the country, celebrated the launching of its 100th Alternative Learning System-Community Learning Center (ALS-CLC) at Amai Pakpak Elementary School in Marawi City.

The 2017-armed conflict caused massive destruction that displaced a great majority of Marawi city’s population. As the local community leaders work towards rebuilding the lives of affected individuals and families, CLFI extended assistance to Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division Office of Marawi to foster recovery and learning continuity amid present conditions. CLFI donated ICT equipment and supplies for the ALS teachers in Amai Pakpak Central Elementary School.

“As part of its inclusion advocacy, CLFI is always committed to provide accessible quality education for all, especially for the underserved Filipinos. To significantly help the rehabilitation efforts of Marawi, we focused our efforts on education—ensuring that children and adult learners have access to basic education,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier.

To fully equip the newly established ALS-CLC in Marawi City, CLFI donated learning tools and devices, including laptops, printers, LED TV, Wi-Fi routers, and load cards -- which will further enable ALS teachers to facilitate online and modular learning sessions for 400 registered ALS learners.

OIC of Schools Division Superintendent, Anna Zenaida Unte-Alonto, receives the learning tools donated by Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc.

“The entirety of the city schools division of Marawi would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our great partner, Cebuana Lhuillier. All these will help our educators and learners to adapt to the new system of education under the new normal,” OIC Schools Division Superintendent, Anna Zenaida Unte-Alonto said.

Driven by its advocacy to make education accessible, CLFI has always been a staunch supporter of DepEd’s ALS program. Since 2013, CLFI has been supporting ALS community learning centers to give out-of-school youth and adult learners a second chance at education.

“The 100th ALS-CLC sponsored by the Foundation is a testament to our firm belief that all Filipinos should have access to quality education. We are elated to see how the company’s advocacy for education can uplift both young and adult learners and help improve their lives,” First Vice President and Group Head for CLFI, Jonathan Batangan said.

Protect Lives and Livelihood with These Easy Fire Prevention Tips and with Cebuana Lhuillier ProtectMax

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In the first two months of 2022 alone, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) announced that fire incidents have already increased by almost 13% compared to the same period last year. In addition, back in 2020, data from BFP also showed that open flame due to torch, unattended cooking, and electrical connections are the main causes of fire accidents.

Like other threats and risks of loss in any unfortunate events such as natural calamities, impacts due to fire and negligence mishaps, thousands of lives and millions up to billions worth of properties are being lost every year, and the need for a financial tool arises to make financial impacts less severe.

“Damage caused by fire is insurmountable. It affects the lives and livelihood of many Filipinos, regardless of their economic status in life. Unfortunately, our kababayans in the marginalized sector can experience bigger risk and more profound impact. Backed by our commitment for financial inclusion, we also want common Filipinos to be able to afford protection and security as a part of their financial plan. It is crucial that they have access to basic security requirements to cushion the blow of disasters that may happen,” Cebuana Lhuillier CEO and President, Jean Henri Lhuillier said.

As the country observes the annual Fire Prevention Month, here are some tips from the BFP to make sure that your house is safe from fire:

1. Unplug appliances when they are not in use

Unplugging items when not in use not only reduces your electricity consumption but also cuts down the chances of a fire. Excessive electricity flowing through appliances like TV sets, computers, and a lot more – or a possibility of power surge can be a source of conflagration.

Make sure to always unplug your appliances when leaving the house.

2. Never leave flames or heated appliances unattended

Always be cautious of any excessive flames that you may use like lighting candles or cooking. Always keep an eye and one step ahead if anything goes wrong. Much better if you can install fire alarms or have fire extinguishers ready, nearby.

3. Keep flammable items away from things that can be a source of fire

Proper storage of different items and supplies can prevent a fire incident. Ensuring that flammable items are stored in the right place and are far away from a source of heat, can save you from a possible accident.

4. Declutter

Too many things cluttered in an area can give fire plenty of space to spread faster. By decluttering certain areas in your home, you’ll be able to minimize the risk of spreading fire, minimize your loss, and save your home in the event of a fire.

5. Check your electrical wirings regularly

Pay close attention to any visible faulty wirings. This can damage your appliances that can eventually lead to a fire incident.

Always remember that prevention is always better than cure. Knowing these fire prevention tips could save you and others from a devastating event.

“This Fire Prevention Month, it is important to raise awareness about fire safety and prevention. Apart from being ready when a fire incident happens, it is also important that common Filipinos have a safety net in case it happened. This is our main mission for our microinsurance product, ProtectMax. This product offers comprehensive coverage at a more reasonable cost,” First Vice President and Group Head of Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Brokers Inc., Jonathan Batangan mentioned.

To lessen the risk brought by fire and other natural calamities, Cebuana Lhuiller offers ProtectMAX, an affordable microinsurance product designed for individuals aged 7 to 70 years old with Death Benefit, Accident or Sickness Emergency Cash Assistance, Accidental Dismemberment and/or Disablement, Murder, and Unprovoked Assault and Residential Fire Reconstruction cash assistance.

For as low as P50, get a total coverage value of up to P61,000.00. Each certificate is valid for four (4) months from the date of issuance and can be availed up to a maximum of 5 certificates per insured in a year.

To know more about Cebuana Lhuillier ProtectMAX, visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch or just log on to www.cebuanalhuillier.com. Avail ProtectMAX now in almost 3,000 branches of Cebuana Lhuillier, nationwide.