KEMELEC Is In: Dogshow Divas Show How to Vote for Your Miss Universe Philippines 2026 Bets with Maya

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Miss Universe Philippines has always delivered iconic moments—from pasarela turns to unforgettable Q&A answers. But this year, there’s a new twist: fans now have a real say in who takes the crown.

Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines and Official Voting Partner of Miss Universe Philippines (MUPh) 2026, collaborates with Dogshow Divas’ Baus Rufo and Macoy Dubs to launch KEMELEC, a witty, pageant-meets-politics spin on how Filipinos can now take part in choosing the next queen.

The KEMELEC introduces Baus and Macoy as the official Kemessioners—your go-to authorities for MUPh updates and voting paandar—guiding fans on how to turn their support into actual votes.

Watch How the KEMELEC Gets It Done

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From national costume reactions to pasarela critiques and Q&A commentary, the KEMELEC makes every MUPh moment fun, interactive, and a push to vote.

Your Vote, Your Queen.

For the first time in Philippine pageant history, fans are given a more meaningful way to support their delegates. Through Maya, supporters can take part in the journey while selections remain anchored on both public participation and Selection Committee evaluation:

• Get FREE votes every day
• Buy additional votes to support their favorite candidates
• Take part in live scoring during Coronation Night on May 1 with a Premium Pass

It’s a major, major opportunity to help shape who will represent the Philippines on the global Miss Universe stage.

You can now start supporting your queen during the voting periods on April 5–11, April 12–18, and April 19–25. Watch the preliminary rounds on Empire PH’s YouTube channel, then vote easily via the Maya app:

• Tap the MUPh 2026 tile on your Maya app
• Choose the candidate you want to support
• Claim your free daily votes or buy extra votes

Whether you’re all-in on one queen or keeping track of the frontrunners, Maya makes it easy to turn your support into action.

This time, it’s not just about performance on stage—it’s also about how delegates connect with the public, as fan support becomes part of the overall journey.

U vote. U decide. U crown. For free. U vote with Maya.

GCash advances AI-powered fraud protection to safeguard digital payments

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A multi‑layered, AI‑powered security strategy showed how it protects millions of Filipinos from the next wave of scams

Digital fraud has evolved from technical exploits into psychological manipulation, targeting not just systems but human trust itself. Financial institutions face mounting pressure to respond with defenses that can learn, adapt, and scale in real time. At the recent Risk.net–AWS conference, GCash demonstrated how it is meeting this challenge, unveiling its multi‑layered, AI‑powered security strategy to protect millions of Filipinos from the next wave of scams.

(L-R) GASA security governance director Mel Migrino, PayMongo chief risk and compliance officer Josh Quinto, Maya compliance management head Mark Talib, 

and GCash chief risk officer Ingrid Beroña

During the conference, which focused on ‘Driving AFASA Compliance Through Advanced Fraud & FinCrime Detection’, hosted by Risk.net and Amazon Web Services (AWS) at Seda Hotel BGC in Manila, industry experts, from chief risk officers and compliance heads to security leaders and key stakeholders, gathered together to discuss how to operationalize the strengthened controls of the Anti‑Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA), or Republic Act No. 12010 — a landmark law designed to combat the surge of financial cybercrimes such as phishing, smishing, and money muling.

GCash participated as one of the key speakers, with its Chief Risk Officer, Ingrid Beroña, joining the panel discussion on "Addressing Real-Time Fraud Detection, Authentication and Financial Crime Under AFASA's Circular 1213," where she led critical conversations on emerging fraud scenarios, AI-powered detection technologies, and the company's risk-based approach to compliance. She was joined by fellow leaders in the fintech landscape from Paymongo, GASA Philippines, and Maya.

When fraudsters weaponize AI

"AI-generated phishing and smishing are the biggest problems across different services that we have," Beroña shared. "Fraudsters are now able to craft phishing messages, even translating them into different languages and dialects."

The threat is amplified for the Philippines, which is one of the world's top social media adopters according to the Digital 2024 and 2025 Global Overview Reports by We Are Social and Meltwater. Large-scale social engineering campaigns deploy bots across platforms, while fake pages and merchants impersonate legitimate services with near-perfect accuracy.

As fraudsters weaponize AI, GCash has designed its defenses around four adaptive pillars. It begins with behavioral biometrics that screen user networks, paired with payload systems that monitor massive transaction volumes in real time. On top of this foundation sits adaptive risk profiling, tailoring security to each user. These controls are then scaled through a cloud‑based architecture capable of protecting millions of GCash user accounts simultaneously. Finally, the system continuously profiles consumer behavior, adjusting security controls in response to evolving activity patterns and transaction histories.

Furthermore, the GCash approach to AFASA ensures that the company is continuously working closely with fraud and cyber teams, AML specialists, and legal counsel while embedding AFASA discipline across the organization.

Strengthening ecosystem-wide defenses

The conference also highlighted how Circular 1213 strengthens controls across real-time fraud detection, identity integrity, authentication security, customer-protection alerts, and financial-crime monitoring, addressing how fraud and scams have evolved from isolated incidents to a regional crisis demanding coordinated response.

The conversations at the Risk.net and AWS event underscored a fundamental shift in how financial institutions must approach security. For GCash, having the largest digital ecosystem in the country means protection embedded at every layer, from onboarding through every transaction, continuously profiling behavior, and adjusting security controls based on risk. Technology that scales to handle massive volumes while maintaining the intelligence to identify subtle anomalies. It means security and privacy by design, not bolted on after the fact.

By anchoring security strategies in the realities of today's threat landscape rather than yesterday's playbooks, GCash continues building fraud prevention capabilities that protect users without compromising the seamless digital experience that drives financial inclusion.

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

Financial Independence Is the Real Power Move This Women’s Month and Maya Is Here to Help

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Women’s Month this year opened with a clear message: women are done settling for less. Across social media, conversations about respect and accountability have been louder than ever.

But empowerment isn’t just about calling things out. For many, it’s also about making sure they never feel financially stuck in the first place. Because independence doesn’t only show up in conversations or personal choices. It shows up in everyday decisions, including how we manage our money.

As the country’s #1 Digital Bank and leading all-in-one fintech platform in the Philippines, Maya is helping more Filipinos take control of their finances with tools that make saving, spending, and borrowing easier to manage.

If you’re thinking about strengthening your own financial independence, here are a few places to start:

Start by Building Your Own Safety Net

One of the most empowering things you can do for yourself financially is having a buffer.

Life happens: a medical bill, an urgent repair, or a sudden trip. And when those things come up, having savings means you don’t have to rely on anyone else or scramble for solutions.

With Maya Personal Goals, you can create up to five savings targets for things like emergencies, travel, or future plans. Each goal earns 4% interest per annum immediately, and every ₱20,000 added increases the rate, reaching up to 8% p.a. on deposits of up to ₱100,000.

If you prefer a more structured way to grow your savings, Time Deposit Plus allows you to lock in funds for 3, 6, or 12 months, earning up to 6% p.a. on deposits of up to ₱1 million per account. With up to five accounts available, that’s as much as ₱5 million growing through disciplined saving.

Spend for Yourself. Not for Expectations.

Another part of financial independence is deciding what your money should actually go toward.

Used responsibly, credit cards can make everyday spending work in your favor. The Maya Black Credit Card, for example, turns routine purchases into rewards. Cardholders earn instant Maya Miles on all transactions — from groceries and bills to flights, hotel bookings, dining, and more.

At Maya Black Preferred merchants, you can earn up to 10X Maya Miles, helping rewards build faster on select purchases. Those Miles can later be used to offset future travel and lifestyle expenses.

With no annual fees for life, Maya Black also comes with premium perks like complimentary quarterly global lounge access, making travels more comfortable without the typical annual costs associated with premium cards.

For those who prioritize everyday savings, the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card offers a practical way to make the most of your spending. Cardholders can enjoy up to 5% cashback at Landers, 2% cashback on dining, and 1% cashback on other transactions, turning routine expenses into real savings.

Borrow When You Need To — But Borrow Smart

Independence doesn’t mean never seeking help. It means knowing your options.

For short-term needs, Maya Easy Credit offers a revolving credit line of up to ₱50,000, payable up to 30 days, helping bridge temporary cash flow gaps while giving you clear visibility into repayment.

For big goals or unexpected expenses, Maya Personal Loan provides up to ₱250,000 with flexible repayment terms of up to 24 months, making it easier to manage obligations without unpredictable balances.

Having a variety of borrowing options means you can stay in control of the situation, not the other way around.

Let Your Money Grow Alongside Your Goals

Financial independence rarely comes from one big move. More often, it’s built through small decisions like saving consistently, spending intentionally, and making sure your money is working for you.

Keeping funds in Maya Savings can earn up to 15% interest per annum, credited daily, helping balances grow steadily while remaining accessible when needed.

Women’s Month is often about celebrating progress. But it’s also a reminder of something important: Independence isn’t just social or cultural. It’s financial too. And increasingly, more Filipinas are making sure they have both.

To know more, visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated. Approval and offer are subject to credit evaluation. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor. For 24/7 assistance, visit the Help Center in the Maya app or call us from 8 AM to 7 PM daily at +632 8845-7788.

Home Credit Philippines Encourages Customers to Seek Early Support for Payment Concern

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Home Credit Philippines (HCPH) is encouraging customers to reach out early if they encounter payment difficulties, underscoring the company’s continued commitment to responsible lending and customer care.

Through its Payment Support Program, Home Credit works with customers experiencing temporary financial challenges to explore practical repayment arrangements suited to their situation. The program is a standing support service available to all customers and forms part of the company’s broader approach to helping Filipinos maintain financial stability throughout their loan journey.

Whether dealing with medical expenses, employment transitions, or unexpected family needs, customers may coordinate directly with Home Credit representatives to discuss available options designed to keep repayment plans manageable.

In 2025 alone, more than 30,000 customers accessed Home Credit’s payment support services, reflecting growing awareness of the importance of early communication in managing financial obligations.

“Behind every payment is effort and commitment,” said Wojciech Krotoszynski, Head of Collections at Home Credit Philippines. “Our role is to listen, understand our customers’ situations, and work with them to find solutions when circumstances change. When customers reach out early, we are better able to support them and help them stay on track.”

Home Credit emphasizes that seeking assistance early can help prevent temporary financial challenges from becoming more difficult burdens. By coordinating proactively, customers may: 

• Discuss flexible payment arrangements for a defined period
• Maintain alignment with their longer-term financial plans
• Identify practical repayment solutions with company support

Customers who wish to learn more about payment assistance options may contact Home Credit through:

• Our official Home Credit website at www.homecredit.ph
• Official customer support channels
• Verified company representatives

As one of the country’s leading consumer finance providers, Home Credit Philippines continues to strengthen programs that promote responsible borrowing, financial resilience, and accessible support for Filipino customers. 

About Home Credit 

Home Credit Philippines is the leading consumer finance company in the country, backed by Bank of Ayudhya Public Company Limited (Krungsri), the fifth largest bank in Thailand, and Security Bank Corporation, one of the most trusted and leading universal banks in the Philippines. 

Now in its 12th year, Home Credit has served over 12 million Filipinos and financed more than ₱400 billion worth of loans through a diverse portfolio that includes installment financing, cash loans, credit cards, and Qwarta, a virtual spending limit. 

Registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Home Credit continues to drive financial inclusion by expanding access to credit and transforming the consumer finance landscape. The company was named Best Finance Company of the Philippines in 2024 by the Asian Banking & Finance (ABF) Retail Banking Awards. 

More information on HCPH is available at www.homecredit.ph.  

 

GCash, Careem Pay partnership enables faster remittances for Filipinos in UAE

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The Philippines’ leading finance superapp GCash has partnered with Careem Pay, a digital payments service available within the Careem app, to enable faster and more reliable money transfers for overseas Filipinos living in the UAE.

Following the official signing between GCash and Careem Pay at Careem's head office in Dubai, users can now send money directly to GCash wallets in the Philippines, making transfers to family and friends faster and more convenient.

(L-R) general manager for GCash International Arjun Varma, and Careem Pay vice president Mohammad El Saadi

Through this direct integration, users in the UAE can now avoid the delays often associated with traditional bank transfers and the inconvenience of visiting physical remittance centers. Transfers settle within minutes, with funds credited straight to the recipient’s GCash app for immediate access.

Designed for Filipino expats who regularly support loved ones back home, the partnership focuses on making remittances simpler, more dependable, and easier to complete. By enabling direct wallet-to-wallet transfers, Careem Pay and GCash help ensure that funds reach recipients quickly and without unnecessary steps. To send money from the UAE to the Philippines, users simply need to download the latest version of the Careem app, select Pay on the home screen, and follow the steps under the Send Abroad tab.

First transfers made easier for first-time users

To mark the launch of the partnership, Careem Pay is offering a special promotion for transfers to the Philippines. Users can receive AED 20 cashback and enjoy zero fees on their first transfer by entering the code GCASH20, while Careem Plus members can benefit from exclusive rates on Careem Pay.

Arjun Varma, General Manager for GCash International said, “Sending money home is one of the most meaningful things our customers do with Careem Pay. For many Filipino expats, it’s about supporting loved ones, covering school fees, or helping parents with everyday expenses.”

“By integrating directly with GCash and adding cash pickup across nearly 15,000 locations, we’ve made the process simpler, faster, and more reliable, with most transfers now reaching their families in the Philippines within minutes,” said Mohammad El Saadi, Vice President of Careem Pay.

With faster and more reliable digital remittance options, GCash empowers overseas Filipinos in the UAE to send money home with confidence and ease. For more information, please visit www.gcash.com. To learn more about Careem Pay, visit www.careem.com/en-AE/pay.

GoTyme Bank and Maxicare partner to enhance doctors’ professional fee disbursement

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GoTyme Bank has officially partnered with Maxicare Healthcare Corporation as its banking partner for the distribution of professional fees to Maxicare-affiliated doctors. This milestone agreement positions GoTyme Bank as a key player in modernizing and enhancing financial services within the healthcare sector.

This collaboration is a significant step in GoTyme Bank's commitment to strengthening the financial infrastructure of the healthcare industry. By leveraging GoTyme Bank’s secure, fast, and reliable platform, Maxicare now offers its network of doctors an additional efficient way to receive their professional fees, allowing them to focus more intently on patient care.

Further supporting this initiative, GoTyme Bank and Maxicare have launched roadshows at key hospitals, making it easier for doctors to open accounts and receive their Visa debit cards. GoTyme Bank kiosks have also been deployed to major Maxicare-affiliated hospitals, including St. Luke’s Medical Center (Quezon City and BGC), Makati Medical Center, VRP Medical Center, and Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital.

These on-site activations provide doctors with hands-on assistance and immediate access to GoTyme Bank services. To date, around 2,000 doctors have been onboarded, with GoTyme Bank aiming to reach an additional 20,000 doctors in the next couple of months.

This partnership underscores Maxicare’s commitment to supporting the financial well-being of its medical network by expanding its range of banking solutions with the help of GoTyme Bank.

The official signing ceremony, held at GoTyme Bank’s headquarters, was attended by key executives from both organizations and marked a significant step toward GoTyme Bank empowering medical practitioners nationwide.

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About GoTyme Bank

GoTyme Bank, a regulated bank by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, is a collaboration between the Gokongwei group of companies and the multi-country digital banking group Tyme. Powered by the extensive ecosystem of the Gokongwei Group, customers can bank where they shop, eat and relax. Through its award-winning mobile app, kiosk, and debit card, the bank offers products and services built around security, simplicity, and beauty that open up new ways of saving, spending, investing and managing its customers’ money. GoTyme Bank is banking made beautiful. Find out more at gotyme.com.ph

Mynt powers next chapter of GCash: unlocking world-class innovations, advancing financial access

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Mynt, the parent company of GCash, continues to grow from strength to strength as it pushes for more world-class innovations on payments, lending, and other financial services.

A street food vendor seamlessly accepting digital payments through GCash

The company has further built on the success of its core payments and lending businesses which delivered healthy year-on-year growth in 2025. Mynt’s attributable equity earnings to Globe reached PHP 6.1 billion (USD 103.7 million) in 2025, higher by 64% year-on-year.

“Our growth momentum continues as digital finance becomes more embedded in daily life,” said Martha Sazon, president and CEO of Mynt. “We are doubling down on expanding financial access to the masses through everyday payments, fair lending, and inclusive wealth and insurance products”

Pioneering next-gen, inclusive payments for everyday Filipinos

In 2025, GCash mobile wallet operator G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), further expanded financial access by partnering with the Philippine government in revolutionizing payments in the country's transport sector—starting with Metro Manila’s major rail and bus systems, which can now accept card, QR, and NFC payments.

This was further enabled by the launch of Tap to Pay, a next-generation NFC solution enabling secure, contactless payments across 150 million merchants worldwide. The company also accelerated its expansion into underserved segments, with 90% of users from lower socio-economic segments and 78% from outside Metro Manila.

Robust growth in fair and inclusive lending

Fuse Financing, the lending arm of Mynt, has also reached significant milestones in 2025 as it disbursed loans worth PHP 362 billion (USD 6.16 billion) life-to-date, a substantial 65% increase from 2024. This growth was driven by over 10.5 million unique borrowers, and GScore, its proprietary trust scoring system.

Fuse has also partnered with the Asian Development Bank for a PHP 1.75 billion loan (USD 30 million) to accelerate credit access to MSMEs—marking a landmark partnership in the ASEAN between ADB and a fintech company.

Unlocking wealth management and affordable insurance for all

GCash has significantly boosted its wealth portfolio, with its investment platform, GStocks Ph, serving 1.7 million registered users in 2025, a 65% increase year-on-year. It has also introduced its IPO Subscription feature, which enabled thousands to participate in a recent Philippine IPO, with orders via GStocks oversubscribed by over 200% during the sale period.

Through GInsure, GCash further expanded access to affordable insurance for millions of Filipinos — with 132.6 million policies sold life-to-date in 2025, nearly triple the previous year’s level. This growth was supported by a 45% increase in GInsure users to 20.6 million.

Deepening financial access for all Filipinos

GCash has also been doubling down its support for entrepreneurs in 2025 with the launch of the GCash Pera Outlet Plus App, making it easier for nano-merchants to access digital services, alongside GCash PocketPay, transforming smartphones into point-of-sale (POS) devices for card payments. The company also made receiving international remittances from the United States faster and easier through its Virtual US Account.

Underpinned by its growth and inclusive fintech innovations, GCash has solidified itself as the #1 Finance App in the Philippines by monthly active users, according to Sensor Tower data as of December 2025.

“Across our various businesses, we strive to achieve meaningful impact, aimed at Making Filipinos’ Everyday Lives Better and accelerating financial inclusion for all,” said Sazon.

Miss Universe Philippines 2026 Makes History with First-Ever Daily Free Fan Voting, Powered by Maya

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Miss Universe Philippines (MUPh) 2026 raises the bar with the launch of its first-ever daily free fan voting experience powered by Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines and Official Voting Partner of MUPh 2026.

The official candidates of Miss Universe Philippines 2026 take the spotlight as this year’s competition begins.

Through the Maya app, pageant fans can conveniently cast votes for their favorite candidates and receive free votes every day, allowing them to consistently show support throughout the competition. This makes fan participation more accessible and rewarding, enabling more Filipinos to actively take part in the journey to the crown.

For the first time ever, fans will also be able to participate in live voting during the coronation night. This marks a significant step forward in making the Miss Universe Philippines experience more interactive, secure, and inclusive.

A More Inclusive Miss Universe Philippines Experience

At the heart of this initiative is greater accessibility and participation. Through this collaboration, pageant fans nationwide can easily engage in the competition via public voting and real-time judging moments.

Fans can support their favorite MUPh candidates directly through the Maya app. By upgrading their Maya account, users can unlock access to free daily votes — making it easier to stay engaged and play a more active role in shaping the outcome of the pageant.

Chris Manguera, Head of New Business and Customer Lifetime Value at Maya, announces the launch of free daily fan voting through the Maya app.

Step Into the Judge’s Seat

Public voting through the Maya app will be open for a limited period ahead of coronation night, with the full voting timeline to be announced on the official Miss Universe Philippines social media accounts.

As part of this initiative, public votes submitted through the Maya platform will be integrated into the overall selection process, alongside expert evaluation, leading up to the announcement of semifinalists on coronation night.

In this way, both expert insight and public participation help shape the final results. Rather than simply watching from afar, Filipinos can now take part in a shared moment of pride, representation, and excitement.

Be Part of History

As Miss Universe Philippines continues to evolve, this partnership with Maya signals a future where beauty, leadership, and representation are shaped not only by experts, but by the Filipino people themselves.

With credibility, accessibility, and public participation at its core, the journey to the crown becomes a truly shared experience.

GCash cautions the public against new scams forcing users to download fake mobile apps from suspicious websites

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GCash is warning the public against new scam tactics that involve fraudsters posing as representatives of legitimate organizations or government agencies. Scammers are employing increasingly sophisticated tactics, including phone calls, emails, fake apps, and staged online video meetings, to pressure victims into revealing their account credentials, resulting in unauthorized access and financial loss.

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GCash warns users to beware of fake government IDs, suspicious video calls, screenshare requests, and bogus app downloads from unfamiliar websites.

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Here are new tactics that scammers are using to target victims, and what to do in case you encounter these:

Fake eGovPH and PhilSys representatives

1. Scammers will pretend to be from a company or government agency and say your National ID is ready or needs verification.

2. They will ask you to join a Google Meet call, send a link, and tell you to download a fake app and share your screen.

3. By watching your screen, they will steal your OTPs, PINs, and passwords, then access your banking and e-wallet accounts.

Fake promos, expiring rewards, and offers that are too good to be true

1. Scammers will pretend to be customer service or company representatives and contact you about rewards, points, or promos.

2. They create urgency and say an OTP is needed to redeem the offer or secure the reward.

3. Some scammers will pretend to be from GCash or a bank and offer account verification, cashback, or security updates.

How to protect yourself

1. Ignore unexpected calls or meeting invites about account or ID verification. If pressured to act fast, hang up or decline immediately.

2. Never share your OTP, MPIN, passwords, or screen during logins or transactions.

3. Do not download apps from links sent by email or text: use the official Apple App Store, Google Play, or Huawei AppGallery.

Report suspicious activity and stay informed

GCash users can report suspected scams through the GCash Help Center at help.gcash.com by chatting with Gigi and selecting “I want to report a scam”, or by calling the official GCash hotline at 2882.

Users may also report incidents to the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group at (02) 8414-1560 / 0998-598-8116 or acg@pnp.gov.ph, and to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) via hotline 1326, mobile 0991-481-4225, or report@cicc.gov.ph.

GCash actively monitors and blocks suspicious activity, takes down reported scam links and accounts, and works closely with law enforcement and government agencies to protect the public.

For more information and updates on cybersecurity, visit the PNP ACG Facebook Page and the GCash website at https://www.gcash.com.

The GCash app is available for free on Google Play Store, Apple App Store or Huawei App Gallery. For safety reminders and updates, visit the official Facebook page at GCash Official.

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

MMDA launches seamless NCAP and anti-littering payments via GCash

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• Motorists can now go cashless in settling MMDA NCAP violations, anti-littering, and other fees through GCash app Bills feature.

• Lower convenience fees make settling violations easier for all motorists

To make fine payments more convenient for Filipinos, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and GCash, the country’s leading finance super app and largest cashless ecosystem, are introducing the updated MMDA biller page on the GCash app. With this enhanced integration, motorists can now settle their No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) violations and other MMDA fees—such as anti-littering penalties—quickly, securely, and anytime on their mobile phones.

With direct biller integration within the GCash app, motorists can now enjoy a smoother payment experience with updated information and a lower convenience fee of only P7 per transaction.

“Making government payments easier and more convenient for the public has always been our priority. With this improved biller page, motorists can now settle their penalties anytime and anywhere, helping them save time and avoid unnecessary hassle,” said MMDA chairman Romando Artes.

For GCash, this collaboration underscores the platform’s mission to empower Filipinos with secure, accessible, and technology-driven financial solutions. “We continue to support government agencies in making public services more accessible through digital payments,” said Cleo Santos, VP head of public sector at GCash. “By enabling seamless and affordable settlement of MMDA violations on the GCash app, we are helping make compliance easier for motorists while advancing the government’s push for efficient, cashless transactions.”

By integrating more government services into its ecosystem, GCash continues to simplify everyday transactions and promote a more digital, efficient, and user-friendly way of paying.

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

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Savings That Slap: Julia Barretto & Maris Racal on What It Feels Like to Save with Maya

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Saving money usually feels quiet and delayed. You set aside funds and trust that it’ll matter someday. But when nothing feels different right away, it’s easy to forget or stop altogether.

That’s exactly what Maya, the #1 Digital Bank and leading all-in-one fintech platform in the Philippines, is calling out in its latest video starring Julia Barretto and Maris Racal. It’s a wake-up call for Filipinos: your savings can reward you daily — if you put it where it earns.

The Filipino Dream: ‘Masampal ng Pera”

Let’s be real: every Filipino has joked about it at least once. “Sana masampal ng pera.” Not out of drama, but out of desire. Because money hitting you means money finally showing up.

Maya taps into that very Filipino fantasy and brings it to life through a playful sampalan. In the video, Julia and Maris literally slap each other with money, turning a familiar pop-culture moment into a metaphor for what daily interest feels like when your savings is actually working.

Watch what went down in the sampalan showdown of Maris and Julia:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgljNn07qI4]

A ‘Sampal’ You’ll Actually Want Every Day

Instead of progress you only notice months later, Maya Savings makes growth immediate. With interest credited daily, your money doesn’t just sit there, it moves consistently and visibly.

That’s the real sampal. Not the painful kind, but the moment you realize your balance is growing day after day. Saving stops feeling passive and starts feeling rewarding, because something is actually happening.

Saving That Hits Different

Julia and Maris show that saving doesn’t have to feel heavy, complicated, or purely long-term. It can be fun, rewarding, and culturally familiar, the kind of saving that slaps, literally and figuratively.

With Maya Savings, users can earn up to 15% interest per annum, credited daily. That daily payout turns saving from something you wait on into something you feel, as your balance grows every day just by using Maya for your everyday transactions.

Once saving feels rewarding, it’s easier to keep going. And for today’s savers, waiting for “someday” isn’t motivating anymore. They want results they can see — and feel — today.

Visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor.

Globe Opens New Store at NAIA Terminal 3 Arrival Section, Elevating Connectivity for Record-Breaking Traveler Volume

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As air travel rebounds strongly, Globe is stepping up to meet inbound demand with the opening of its new store at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 arrival section. Positioned right at the arrivals exit area, the store is designed to give international travelers instant access to mobile connectivity as soon as they land.

The airport processed a historic 52.02 million passengers last year in a report disclosed by NAIA on their website, marking the highest‑ever annual volume. That reflects a surge in travel demand and a recovery beyond pre‑pandemic levels.

With thousands of passengers arriving daily, the new store aims to deliver immediate value and convenience, offering physical SIM cards and eSIM activation, prepaid load top-ups, and bills payment, catering to the diverse needs of international travelers.

To commemorate the store opening, Globe is rolling out special launch promotions from December 15, 2025, to January 31, 2026. Travelers who purchase a Globe Traveler SIM get a free gift such as a portable travel neck pillow and a free Grab voucher.

“Global traveler volume at NAIA has surged to record highs, and we’re making sure every visitor begins their Philippine journey with reliable connectivity,” said Givielle Florida, Head of Globe Prepaid. “Our new NAIA store ensures our brand delivers beyond network services. We enable seamless access to community, mobility and information the moment travelers arrive.”

As Globe Prepaid is the preferred mobile partner for inbound tourists, Globe reinforces its role as a catalyst for effortless connectivity and tourism‑ready service.

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/international/traveler-sim.

GCash represents PH at Mastercard Global Financial Health Coalition, showcases fintech expertise in international arena

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Leading finance super app GCash is bringing its financial technology expertise as the sole Philippine founding partner in the Mastercard Global Financial Health Coalition, an international network of industry innovators focused on advancing financial health and resilience.

Fuse Financing Inc. president and CEO Tony Isidro represented GCash during the Mastercard ASEAN Inclusive Growth Summit in Malaysia, highlighting the importance of enabling credit access to MSMEs to support their growth.

Represented by GCash lending arm Fuse Financing Inc., its president and CEO, Tony Isidro, is sharing his knowledge on how to further financial inclusion on a larger scale through technology.

This perspective sets the stage for the participation of GCash in the Coalition, which aims to strengthen financial resilience in emerging markets by connecting people to the right tools — harnessing technology for protection and empowering long-term financial habits. Other members of the Coalition include DANA, TrueMoney, MTN Group Fintech, Airtel Africa, MOCO, Axian, Daviplata, and The Center for Financial Inclusion.

“GCash has transformed how millions of Filipinos manage their money—bringing secure, digital financial services into everyday life. Through its lending arm, Fuse Financing Inc., it has democratized lending in the Philippines, making credit fair and more accessible to millions, especially the unbanked and underserved segments, “ Isidro said.

“By joining this coalition, we aim to extend that impact beyond our borders, sharing our mobile-first innovation and insights to help strengthen financial resilience across emerging markets,” he added.

More than account openings

For Isidro, the industry must confront a hard truth: opening an account is not enough to improve financial well-being. Real progress depends on whether people trust financial tools, understand them and use them regularly. Technology is central to building these behaviors. It strengthens security, simplifies transactions and enables users to take control of their financial decisions.

According to Isidro, however, many Filipinos remain outside the formal financial system despite the rapid expansion of digital adoption in the country. This gap is evident in a study by Mastercard showing that 49.8% of adults still do not have a formal financial account. This limits access to savings, credit, and insurance that are key to long-term financial stability.

Fuse Financing addressed this gap by offering credit products that are simple, secure and accessible through the GCash app. This accessibility led to a growth in lending activities, reflecting a shift in behavior as more users integrate borrowing into their daily financial routines. This pattern aligns with Mastercard’s findings that deeper usage of financial tools is closely associated with financial progression.

The Philippines illustrates how fintech platforms can reach communities that traditional banking has not fully served. Mastercard’s analysis also shows that when digital and physical tools complement each other, people are more likely to build consistent financial habits. This reinforces the role of technology as a driver of trust and adoption.

Isidro, as such said, the coalition strengthens the opportunity to bring this approach to more markets.

“We look forward to learning from fellow coalition members whose diverse experiences and best practices can help us further elevate our solutions. Together, we can accelerate progress toward a truly inclusive digital economy,” he said.

As the Coalition moves forward, the experience and expertise of GCash in driving adoption and responsible borrowing will contribute to a broader, regional effort to improve financial health. The goal is to build a digital economy where more people have the tools and confidence to advance financially.

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

Manulife Philippines Continues to Advance Impact Agenda with Sustainability and Community Efforts

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   ●      In 2025, Manulife Philippines planted more than 10,000 native trees and reached nearly 2,000 new Peso Smart learners through community‑led partnerships.

● Sustained coastal and terrestrial restoration programs, in collaboration with Haribon Foundation, strengthened local ecosystems and supported livelihoods in Luzon island.

●    Manulife’s Season of Giving mobilized colleagues across the country to donate and volunteer for the causes that matter most to them, with the company matching individual colleague donations dollar‑for‑dollar up to CA$1,000.

Manulife Philippines, the local arm of leading financial services provider Manulife, continues to advance its Impact Agenda, the company’s global commitment to drive better outcomes for its customers, communities, and the planet, with various volunteering and community efforts spread throughout the past year.

To cap 2025’s initiatives, Manulife executives, volunteers, and beneficiaries came together for sustained reforestation efforts, advancing environmental restoration and financial education across communities. Manulife’s annual Season of Giving campaign also empowered its colleagues to support causes meaningful to them through personal donations and volunteerism.

A Year of Environmental and Community Impact

In 2025, Manulife Philippines further advanced its contributions to a healthier planet and community development by planting more than 10,000 native trees covering four hectares of terrestrial and coastal areas. To date, it has planted 31,250 trees across terrestrial and coastal reforestation projects in partnership with Haribon Foundation, local communities, and through the efforts of colleague-volunteers.

 Manulife Philippines colleague volunteers participate in a seedling preparation activity in Rizal province.

Seedling Preparation: 

Through the Seedling Nursery Activity, Manulife Philippines colleague volunteers prepared 1,000 native tree seedlings at a nursery site in Sto. Niño, Rizal in February. The activity was conducted in partnership with Haribon Foundation alongside KAT-MAGAT Tourism and Farmers Association and Sto. Niño Integrated School, supporting reforestation efforts that benefit more than 200 households in the community. Planting these prepared seedlings will commence in 2026, covering eight hectares of forest in the Sierra Madre mountain range.

In 2025, Manulife Philippines expanded its partnership with Haribon Foundation to include planting mangroves in Quezon province.

Mangrove Planting: 

To support coastal restoration efforts that protect shorelines and local fishing communities, Manulife partnered with Haribon Foundation and the community of Alitas Farmers and Fisherfolk Association (AFFA). These mangrove planting efforts will benefit more than 200 households in Infanta, Quezon. The program has established a dedicated mangrove seedling nursery that aims to produce a total of 15,000 seedlings by the end of 2027.

Terrestrial Planting: 

Manulife’s flagship terrestrial restoration site in Real, Quezon, has planted 10 hectares in partnership with Haribon Foundation with the support of the communities in Brgy. Tanuan Farmer’s Association (BATAFA) and Samahan ng Katutubong Dumagat ng Real, Quezon Inc. The restoration efforts benefit nearly 10,000 households in Brgy. Maragondon in Real.

To date, more than 4,900 Filipino learners have completed the Peso Smart program.

Financial Literacy: 

In collaboration with the Corazon Sanchez Atayde Memorial Foundation, Manulife's Peso Smart program reached s new learners across 18 public elementary schools nationwide in 2025. The award-winning financial literacy program equips young Filipinos with essential financial skills such as saving, budgeting, and investing, while connecting financial literacy. To date, more than 4,900 Filipino learners have completed the Peso Smart program, which Manulife Philippines pioneered in 2017.

 Volunteers from Manulife Business Processing Service participate in a volunteering activity.

Bayanihan Festival: 

Manulife Business Processing Services (MBPS), the global shared services center of Manulife, held its inaugural Bayanihan Festival in November 2025. Inspired by the Filipino spirit of community and collaboration, MBPS partnered with Rise Against Hunger Philippines, Waves for Water Philippines, and Reach Out and Feed Philippines for initiatives such as Project Baon to address food insecurity and micronutrient deficiency among Filipino children and humanitarian efforts in disaster-hit Cebu province. There, MBPS mobilized colleague-volunteers and dispensed 2,000 relief kits, 5,000 hot meals, and engaged Manulife’s global colleagues to donate to relief efforts, matching donations dollar-for-dollar.

Volunteers from Manulife IT Delivery Center teach young learners about coding.

Code4Future: 

Manulife IT Delivery Center (MITDC), the fintech arm of Manulife, organized two Code4Future learning sessions in 2025. The sessions, which aim to empower children through coding and creativity, drew 73 young learners and more than 80 MITDC colleague-volunteers. The program aimed to spark curiosity and encourage problem-solving skills while showcasing how technology can fuel creativity.

 Manulife Philippines also unveiled in its newly opened agency office at the Ayala North Exchange the mural called “From Trash to Tree-sure.”

From Trash to Tree-sure:

Manulife Philippines also unveiled in its newly opened agency office at the Ayala North Exchange the mural called “From Trash to Tree-sure,” a unique centerpiece embodying the company’s commitment to sustainable business practices and innovation. The mural was crafted from 18.35 kilos of old Manulife t-shirts from past team events, 9.85 kilos of repurposed tarpaulins, and 56.6 kilos of used beverage cartons. It was built by Manulife financial advisors and colleague-volunteers in collaboration with sustainability-focused interior design firm JunkNot, through its Trash Innovation Exchange for Upcycling Project.

Manulife Global Chief Marketing Officer Karen Leggett joins Manulife Philippines colleague volunteers in a seedling preparation activity.

To close Impact Agenda efforts in 2025, Global Chief Marketing Officer, Karen Leggett, joined colleague-volunteers from Manulife Philippines, Manulife China Bank Life, and Manulife Investments Philippines along with Peso Smart Pinay graduates from Quezon City and Peso Smart teachers from the San Miguel Elementary School in Pasig to prepare 200 native tree seedlings for terrestrial planting in Tanay, Rizal in 2026.

"Taking part in volunteer opportunities like this seedling activity underscores our commitment to supporting communities and championing sustainability through hands-on action," said Leggett. "Each seedling we plant is a tangible promise to restore forests, protect vital ecosystems, and unlock new opportunities for Filipino communities to thrive. By coming together with partners and volunteers, we are not only cultivating a safer, more resilient future, but also inspiring lasting change for generations to come. We stand united in our mission to transform intent into impact—a testament to the power of collective action."

Colleague-Driven Impact

  Season of Giving campaign reflect Manulife Philippines' continued commitment to the communities it serves.

In 2025, Manulife colleagues in the Philippines registered more than 13,000 volunteering hours through their participation in different Impact Agenda initiatives. This was further amplified in Manulife’s global Season of Giving campaign, where colleagues are encouraged to donate to charities and volunteer with community organizations of their choice.

Manulife matches colleagues’ donations dollar-for-dollar up to CA$1,000 in Asia during the Season of Giving, which ran from November to December. This matching mechanism transforms individual generosity into a collective, deep impact across markets. The company also recognizes volunteer hours for any of the colleagues’ chosen initiatives, ensuring that colleagues can support causes of personal significance.

"Filipinos entrust us with their financial futures, and that trust comes with a clear responsibility to invest back in meaningful and lasting ways,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. "The Season of Giving puts this belief into action. We know meaningful change starts with personal commitment, so we take pride in empowering our people to champion the causes that matter most to them.”

Initiatives like Peso Smart, reforestation projects, and Season of Giving campaign reflect Manulife Philippines' continued commitment to the communities it serves. By combining hands-on local engagement and colleague-driven charitable giving, the company continues to demonstrate that lasting impact comes from consistent action and collective effort.

In November, Manulife Financial Asia Limited won the Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards 2025 in the category of Top Sustainability Advocates in Asia for its outstanding commitment to sustainability through its Impact Agenda, environmental stewardship, and strategic integration of sustainable investing across its operations. The recently launched Manulife Longevity Institute underscores this commitment by creating a global platform to drive action that helps people live longer, healthier, and more financially secure lives by 2030—in Asia and around the world.

To learn more about Impact Agenda and Manulife’s commitment towards building a better business to better the world, visit manulife.com.ph