A Home that Cares: Home Credit Extends HMO Coverage to Domestic Partners to Strengthen Inclusivity Efforts

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As Home Credit Philippines (HCPH) continues to foster inclusivity and support diverse families in the workplace, the leading consumer finance company now includes domestic partners as dependent in its medical benefits program for eligible employees.

Home Credit Philippines Chief People Officer Alpha Omega Aquino noted that this new policy is aligned with the company’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of its employees.

“With this initiative, we hope to create an environment where every employee feels supported and valued. We want to help promote a caring and nurturing work culture that feels like home to empower our employees further,” said Aquino.

With this new policy, qualified employees can now extend their HMO coverage to their domestic partners if they meet certain criteria. The employee and domestic partner should be both single and never married and not related by blood, whether legitimate or illegitimate. The partner must also be of legal age and not more than 65 years old.

If eligible, the employee can enroll the partner by submitting the following requirements for the medical benefits program: barangay certification of co-habitation, the partner’s Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) certified copy of birth certificate, and PSA certificate of no marriage (CENOMAR).

“By extending our medical benefits program to domestic partners, we aim to enable our employees to build strong and healthy families, regardless of marital status. The coverage will encompass inpatient and even outpatient services, including checkups, laboratory tests, rehab, therapy, emergency care, dental, mental health care, and pre-existing conditions,” Aquino added.

As a strong advocate of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), this initiative complements the Same-Sex Partner HMO Coverage that Home Credit started to offer its employees in 2021 to provide medical benefits to LGBTQIA+ partners. Currently, the company already has several employees enjoying this benefit.

“At Home Credit, we believe that our employees are our greatest asset. We remain committed to fostering a workplace that promotes DEI, allowing us to embrace different perspectives and backgrounds to make every employee feel welcome and appreciated. We will continue enhancing our programs for our employees as we believe our success will not be possible without them,” Aquino remarked.

As a testament to Home Credit’s commitment to upholding DEI practice, the company recently received another Gold Stevie® for the Innovative Achievement for Diversity and Inclusion category during the tenth annual Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards last June.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see what’s new in the Marketplace.

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

Education consumes 51% of Filipino household income—WorldRemit

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More than 51% of a Filipino household’s monthly income goes to covering educational costs, a new report by WorldRemit revealed.

The digital cross-borders app released its third year of global data and findings to understand how the cost of school supplies impact families around the world. The price of uniforms, stationery, and extra supplies like bags across 21 countries were compared from 2022 to 2023.

In the Philippines, the cost of school supplies rose by 16%.

“We have to think about frequency of use in relation to these school supplies. As children are more likely to go through stationery like a pencil quicker than wearing down a uniform, the higher cost adds up over time. And if there is more than one student in a household, these costs multiply accordingly,” said Earl Melivo, Head of Asia Pacific at WorldRemit.

According to Melivo, more remittances are sent from June and July to pay for tuition fees and school supplies in time for the opening of classes in August.

Amid global economic circumstances, 40% of observed countries are expected to pay more than their monthly income on school supplies. In countries outside of North America, Europe, and Australia, cost differences were far more drastic, where yearly changes averaged an increase of 78%.

Data from the United Nations states that 1 in 9 people worldwide rely on money sent from friends and relatives who have migrated abroad for work. According to Social Weather Stations, 7% of Filipino households have a family member working as an OFW, 75% say these OFWs regularly send money back home.

As of 2022, the Philippines had the third highest remittance inflows in the Asia and Pacific region at 11%.

“Education is one of the top reasons people send money back home. For Filipino families, especially those whose monthly income just suffices for daily needs, remittances from overseas supplement their ability to afford essential school supplies, as well as manage steep costs like tuition, transportation and childcare,” said Melivo.

 

 

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About WorldRemit

We are a leading global payments company and, along with Sendwave, part of Zepz, a group powering two global remittance brands.

We disrupted an industry previously dominated by offline legacy players by taking international money transfers online – making them safer, faster and lower cost. We currently operate in more than 5,000 money transfer corridors worldwide and employ over 1,200 people globally.                                      

Sending money with WorldRemit is 100% digital (cashless), increasing convenience and enhancing security. For those receiving money, we offer a wide range of options, including bank transfer, cash pickup, airtime top up and mobile money.                        

Backed by Accel, TCV and Leapfrog – WorldRemit’s headquarters are in London, United Kingdom, with regional offices in the United States, Poland, Canada, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, South Africa, Somaliland, Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zimbabwe and Belgium.

‘Pag ganyan, phishing scam yan!’ Mga panibagong e-wallet phishing scam na kailangang alamin at iwasan

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Nito lamang nakaraang linggo, ilang text message o tawag na ang natanggap mo mula sa numerong hindi mo kilala?

Kung dati ay advertisement lang ang laman ng mga ito, kapansin-pansin ang pagdami ng mga kahina-hinalang mensaheng may laman na link at mga taong nagkukunwaring namimigay ng papremyo. Sa dami na ng klase ng online scam na naranasan ng mga Pinoy, libu-libo pa rin ang nagiging biktima nito dahil gumagaling na ring magtago ng katiwalian ang mga scammer.

Sa pagsikat ng e-wallet sa Pilipinas, naging panibagong target ito ng mga scammer para makuha ang impormasyon ng users at magka-access sa kanilang mga account. Sa tinatawag na phishing scam, kadalasan ay nagpapanggap na lehitimong business, website, o empleyado ang scammer para madaling makuha ang lahat ng impormasyon para maka login sa account ng biktima. Kung dati ay sa text o email lang ito nangyayari, ngayon ay ginagawa na rin ito sa social media, tawag, at mga pekeng website.

Para protektahan ang mga users laban sa mga scammer, pinagtibay ng GCash, ang nangungunang e-wallet app, ang mga security features nito. Pinakilala nito ang DoubleSafe Face ID, kung saan bukod OTP at MPIN ay kakailanganin na rin ng selfie para ma-access ang GCash. Sa kabila nito, importante ring alamin ng lahat ng users kung ano ang mga kumakalat na phishing scam at paano ito maiiwasan.

● ‘Magtop-up para sa online gambling’ phishing scam

Patok na patok ngayon ang mga online gambling sites, kaya naman madalas din itong ginagamit ng mga scammer para mambiktima ng mga e-wallet user. Sa phishing scam na ito, ikaw ay dadalhin sa pekeng GCash website kung saan kukunin ang OTP at MPIN mo.

Ang modus:

Pagkatapos gumawa ng account sa pekeng gambling site, ipapalink sa iyo ang GCash account mo para makapag-top up ka. Mapupunta ka sa pekeng GCash website kung saan ipapa-enter sa iyo ang iyong mobile number at MPIN. Makakatanggap ka rin ng text na may kasamang OTP para i-link sa ibang device ang iyong GCash account. Sa oras na maibigay mo ang iyong impormasyon, maari nang maaccess ng mga scammer ang iyong account para nakawin ang iyong pera.

Paano ito maiiwasan:

Kapag pinapa-link ang iyong GCash account, tingnan nang maigi ang URL o pangalan ng link para masiguradong nasa totoong website ka ng GCash. Ang lehitimong GCash website ay nagsisimula sa https:// at nagtatapos ‘gcash.com.’ Sa kabilang banda, ang mga pekeng GCash portal naman ay maaaring may magkasunod na numero sa umpisa, may extra characters o may mali sa spelling (ex. Gccash vs GCash).

Kapag nagrerequest ng OTP para magbayad, basahin din nang mabuti ang text upang makasiguradong hindi mo nai-link sa ibang device ang iyong GCash account. Huwag ishare ang MPIN at OTP sa ibang tao, lalo na sa mga pekeng online gambling sites.

● ‘Nakahold ang account mo’ phishing scam

Sa phishing scam na ito, ang mga scammer ay nagpapanggap na representative ng mga kompanya at nagkukunwaring may emergency para madaliang ibigay ng mga biktima ang kanilang impormasyon.

Ang modus:

Makakatanggap ka ng tawag, text o mensahe sa social media galing sa isang account na nagpapanggap na empleyado ng GCash at sasabihan kang nakafreeze o nakahold ang iyong GCash account. Mag-aalok ito ng tulong upang ma-activate ang account mo, pero hihingin nito ang mobile number, MPIN at OTP mo. Kapag nakuha na nila ang mga mahahalagang impormasyon, maari na nilang buksan ang iyong GCash account at tangayin ang laman nitong pera.

Paano ito maiiwasan:

Hindi kailanman hihingin ng GCash na iactivate ang account mo sa pamamagitan ng tawag, text o chat. Laging alalahanin na lahat ng lehitimong transaksyon ay sa official GCash app lang dapat gawin, kabilang na ang pagresolba sa mga concerns sa iyong account.

Kung ikaw ay minamadali, maaring phishing scam ‘yan! I-check muna ang GCash app para tingnan ang status ng iyong account, at huwag i-share ang MPIN at OTP kahit kanino man – kahit pa sa mga taong nagpapakilala bilang empleyado ng GCash. Tandaan, hindi kailanman hihingi ng GCash ang mga impormasyong ito sa iyo.

● ‘Nanalo ka ng premyo!’ phishing scam

Sa pangatlong phishing scam, papaniwalain ka ng mga scammer na nanalo ka ng rewards o premyo mula sa GCash kahit na wala kang sinalihang raffle. Bibigyan ka nila ng link para makuha ang iyong impormasyon at gamitin ito para i-access ang iyong account.

Ang modus:

Sa scam na ito, may magpapanggap na GCash representative at magpapadala ng text o email na nagsasabing nanalo ka ng reward, cashback o premyo. Bibigyan ka rin ng link para makuha ang premyo, ngunit dadalhin ka nito sa isang pekeng website na kamukha ng GCash portal. Kapag nilagay mo ang iyong mobile number, MPIN at OTP, maari na nilang i-access ang iyong GCash account.

Paano ito maiiwasan:

Laging tandaan na hindi nagpapadala ang GCash ng link sa pamamagitan ng text, email at messaging apps. Sa ngayon, walang opisyal na rewards program ang GCash. Lahat ng lehitimong promos naman ay matatagpuan lamang sa loob ng official GCash app kaya huwag magclick sa mga link at huwag ibigay ang MPIN at OTP sa kahit kanino man. Ugaliing basahin ang mga text o email na matatanggap, lalo na ang mga mensahe na galing sa hindi inaasahan o kilalang sender.

Talamak man ang phishing scam sa Pilipinas, huwag magpabiktima. Sa oras na hingin ang inyong personal information sa labas ng GCash app or lehitimong GCash website, scam ‘yan!

Ngayong alam mo na kung anu-ano ang mga panibagong e-wallet phishing scam, mas mapapahalagahan mo ang iyong e-wallet, lalo na ang iyong mga personal na impormasyon. Kabilang na dito ang maigting na paalala na huwag mong i-share ang MPIN at OTP mo.

Kapag ikaw ay nakaranas ng phishing scam at mga kahina-hinalang aktibidad ukol sa iyong GCash account, maari mo itong i-report sa official GCash Help Center (help.gcash.com/hc/en-us) o i-message si Gigi sa website gamit ang, “I want to report a scam.”

Back-to-School Laptops Guide: Essential factors to consider, from features to budget

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Watch out as Home Credit is the key to avail of sulit devices this upcoming academic year!

Today's technology is changing and improving at the highest level of development and change. It is constantly progressing through innovations and changes. The ability to do so depends on developing and changing technology.

In today's technology-driven world, gadgets like laptops have become essential tools in empowering students in their education. From college to grade school, students now rely on these devices to research information, access digital learning materials, complete assignments and activities, and even communicate with teachers and classmates.

This reality calls for a reliable and efficient partner that every student can use in their day-to-day needs, such as a versatile laptop that can multitask and handle demanding applications for school tasks. However, this back-to-school season, parents and students have various options to choose from.

The good thing is that Home Credit, a leading consumer finance company, is here to guide you on your quest to find the perfect device for the upcoming school year. From features for usability to budget, here are the ‘wais’ things you should look for before purchasing a laptop.

Check its performance for everyday tasks

A laptop’s performance can affect a student’s overall productivity. Lags or slow response times can interfere with a student’s ability to work efficiently on school activities, assignments, and projects at a given time. For that reason, it is vital to have a high-performance or reliable laptop that can provide a smooth multitasking experience.

Check if the device has a powerful processor and at least 8GB of RAM for better performance. Additionally, ensure it has the latest operating system for compatibility with modern applications and a good graphics card if school tasks require various editing software and more. Such features are built in a wide range of laptops, including Acer Aspire Vero Work Laptop, Asus TUF Gaming F15 Laptop, and Apple MacBook Air Gold 8GB RAM/256GB.

Ensure bigger storage for files, applications

Storage is a vital feature to consider when looking for a laptop this upcoming academic year. Having a sizable storage will give a student enough space to store different files, such as research papers, learning materials, and more. It can also provide considerable storage for educational applications and software with larger sizes. With that in mind, make sure to get a laptop built with at least 500GB to 1TB of ROM to not worry about running out of capacity, such as the Huawei Matebook D15 i5 11th Gen, HP 15S Work Laptop, and ASUS Vivobook 15.

Assess its battery, design for portability

For students, the battery is a crucial factor for a laptop. Power outlets are not always available for the next recharge whenever they are outside the house or on campus. With long-lasting battery power, students can take their laptops anytime and anywhere and use the device for an extended period to work on their school tasks. Look for a laptop equipped with a battery that has the power to last for more than eight hours. For instance, there are the Acer Aspire 3 i3 and the HP 15S i3 Silver Laptop for a reliable study partner.

Additionally, a laptop’s weight and dimensions impact its portability. Because students sometimes bring their laptops to school, a heavier or bulkier device may not be ideal as it might strain their shoulders and backs. That is why always consider a lighter and slimmer design like the Realme Book i3 Work Laptop for a handy device.

Make sure it adheres to the budget

If there is already an established budget for the laptop, stick to it to avoid overspending. As there are various options available out there, it is appropriate to first compare the specs and prices before buying. Choose the one that is affordable and has the specs that can meet a student’s needs, and do not forget to take advantage of on-sale laptops to save money.

Get ‘sulit’ laptops with Home Credit this back-to-school season

To avail of powerful or reliable laptops this coming school year, Home Credit is the key! With its back-to-school promo, enjoy flexible POS with 0% interest to purchase ‘sulit’ laptops.

You can get your hands on the best high-performance laptops below PHP2,499 per month, such as Acer Aspire Vero Work Laptop, Asus TUF Gaming F15 Laptop, and Apple MacBook Air Gold 8GB RAM, among others. There are also value-for-money laptops under PHP1,999 per month, including Huawei Matebook D15 i5 11th Gen, HP 15S Work Laptop, ASUS Vivobook 15, and more.

If you want budget-friendly laptops below PHP1,499 per month, then Home Credit got you covered because you can take advantage of the Acer Aspire 3 i3, ASUS Ryzen 3 Laptop, Realme Book i3 Work Laptop, and more.

Aside from these ‘sulit’ laptops, Home Credit has more in store if you are a Home Credit customer. You can also enjoy its back-to-school cash loan promo that you can use for other school expenses. With just one minute of processing time, you can enjoy PHP3,000 up to PHP150,000 loan amount with flexible payment options from 12 to 60 months. Other than that, if you are an eligible customer, you can also have up to five months of free installment when you pay on time.

So, what are you waiting for? Shop now with Home Credit, and do not miss the chance to enjoy its back-to-school promo. Visit this link to be updated.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see what’s new in the Marketplace.

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

Home Credit Philippines snags Gold Stevie® for Diversity and Inclusion

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As the company continues to live up to the standards and promote the DEI principles in the workplace and beyond, leading consumer finance company Home Credit Philippines bagged yet again another Gold Stevie^® in the tenth annual Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards for the Innovative Achievement for Diversity and Inclusion category.

 

The company was recognized during a virtual awarding ceremony held last June 27, where all awardees across the Asia-Pacific region commemorated the achievements and innovations of these companies and how they contributed to their respective industries.

 

“Every day, we celebrate our employees’ diversity in gender, nationality, culture, age, and background. Beyond this, we foster a home where everyone can share their unique perspectives, respect each other's needs, and reach their full potential without barriers,” said Alpha Omega Aquino, Home Credit Philippines’ Chief People Officer.

 

She added, “This Gold Stevie^® award is an attestation of our commitment to championing and further promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and beyond. And here at Home Credit, we’re proud to say that there are no small roles, everyone is important.”

 

DEI in the workplace and beyond

Backed by its commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG), Home Credit continues to foster diversity and inclusion by creating programs that aim to have meaningful engagement among all its employees.

 

In April 2022, the company forged partnerships with the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment (PBCWE) and the Philippine LGBT Chamber of Commerce (PLCC) to further cement its commitment to achieving gender equality and inclusion in the workplace. The said organizations have guided Home Credit in creating policies, guidelines, and projects that helped the company efficiently promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

 

Pride starts at Home

During this Pride Month, Home Credit held a series of activities to strengthen further its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. These activities were conducted in partnership with its recently formed Pride Club composed of LGBTQ employees and allies.

Learn more about the latest updates of Home Credit by visiting its official website www.homecredit.ph. Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

From “So Lit” to “Sulit!” Get iPhone 11 now via Home Credit’s 0% interest offer until September 30!

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As smart buyers, it always pays to purchase anything ‘sulit,’ especially when it comes to the things we’ll use every day, like smartphones. These gadgets are critical to our everyday lives in the ‘always-on’ world, where people must stay connected with friends, family, and even colleagues, whenever and wherever they are.

But, nowadays, having a smartphone is more than just about staying connected. It’s more than just having the power to connect, and most certainly, there are more things that we need to consider in order for these trusty devices to be called a ‘sulit’ buy.

For iPhone users, one particular model is worthy of being called a ‘sulit’ phone—the iPhone 11. From its camera specs, and reliable performance, to high-res display and sleek design, this model has become a staple and proves to be a ‘sulit’ buy as it enables users to experience all that they need and deserve from an iPhone. 

Here’s why:

High-res camera for high-quality photos, videos

When looking for a mobile phone, the camera is one of the vital features you need to check. This is to make sure you can capture your every moment and experience in high-quality, especially now in the age of social media.

From snapping a selfie, taking photos of scenic views, to even recording dance crazes, never let your camera hold you down when documenting your memories and parts of your life. Luckily, the iPhone 11 features a dual-camera system built with 12MP Ultra-Wide and Wide cameras to allow you to capture social-media-worthy photos and videos every day.

Reliable performance for everyday use

Running low on power is one of your main problems when you are outside. It is a hassle to search for an energy source just to recharge your phone if you forget your power bank. Having a battery that can store enough power to fuel your device so it can last the whole day is a lifesaver.

The good thing is that the iPhone 11 boasts a 3110mAh battery capacity that can provide the power you need all day. With a capacity that can deliver up to 65 hours of music experience or up to 17 hours of watching videos, there is no need for you to worry about your battery life all the time.

Aside from the battery, ensuring its performance features can give you a smooth user experience when going through your day-to-day tasks or enjoying downtime on your mobile phone. Lags can interrupt your gameplay or interfere with your productivity as you work around your emails, online meetings, messages, and so on. Thanks to the iPhone 11’s A13 Bionic processor and iOS 13 operating system, you can enjoy smooth performance when using the device, allowing you to play or multitask without the fear of slow response time.

High-definition display for a better viewing experience

A mobile phone’s display affects your overall user experience. As much as possible, you want a screen that can meet your visual preferences so you can appreciate your time on the phone. If you are searching for a higher-resolution display that shows accurate colors for immersive visuals, the iPhone 11 has a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina screen with a 1792x828 resolution, making every photo or frame you encounter come alive.

Water-resistant design for long-lasting use

Buying a mobile phone is an investment. That is why you must ensure that you are only getting a quality device that can last long and is well protected if exposed to harmful factors that may damage its hardware. Worry no more because the iPhone 11 got you covered. As it is rated IP68, the device is water-resistant and can withstand common liquid spills and even two-meter-deep water for 30 minutes. With its enduring quality, you can guarantee you can use the device for a long time.

Snatch that ‘sulit’ deal

Before finalizing your decision to buy the phone after checking its features, do not forget to consider its price and payment options. This will allow you to evaluate if the device is within or out of your budget while also giving you a chance to choose how to pay for it so you will not spend all your savings in one go.

If you are curious about the iPhone 11’s price, it retails at PHP29,990 and PHP25,990 for its 128GB and 64GB variants, respectively. It is available in six colors: Black, Green, Yellow, Purple, Red, and White.

But how can this be a sulit deal? Home Credit hears you! Avail now the iPhone 11 via Home Credit and enjoy its 0% interest offer with 6-, 9-, and 12-month installment options. Depending on your chosen duration, you can only be PHP52 away from using the so lit iPhone 11 for a ‘sulit’ investment.

What are you waiting for? Get the iPhone 11 now before it is too late! Home Credit’s offer is ongoing and will last until September 30, 2023.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website , www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see what’s new in the Marketplace.

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

AXA Mind Health Study cites ‘the Great Resignation may not be over’ in the PH

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A recent study conducted by leading insurance provider AXA Philippines showed that Filipinos who are struggling at work are almost twice as likely to resign within a year compared to the rest of the world. This accounts for 32% of Filipinos surveyed, versus the global average of 17%, suggesting that the “Great Resignation” is still a continuing trend as professionals continue to re-evaluate their career choices.

The AXA Mind Health study also revealed that job stress (39%), better job and higher pay (39%), the need for work-life balance (32%), and a toxic work culture (31%) are among the top reasons cited by Filipino workers for intending to leave their current jobs.

Going through the ‘Great Resignation’

The study, which highlighted the importance of addressing mind health concerns in the workplace to improve employees’ retention and overall job satisfaction, revealed that the Philippines has the highest resignation rate globally at 18%. Numbers also showed that the intent to resign may not translate to actual resignations with only 14% of Filipino workers actually resigning in the next 12 months. This percentage is lower than the global average across all age groups. Despite the bullish numbers, it is still too early to tell if the “Great Resignation” is over in the Philippines.

The research found that most resignations come from the 18-24 age range, with the younger workforce most likely planning their exit from their jobs eventually. In the Philippines, the intention to resign among young Filipinos is higher, with a 28% resignation rate versus 24% globally. Majority (64%) of Filipino workers who resigned from a job in the last year found it was positive for their mental wellbeing. This number implies that employees usually feel happier when they leave a stressful or toxic environment and move on to something that suits them better.

Youth and workplace productivity

The survey revealed that young workers in the Philippines, particularly those aged 18-24, are least likely to be productive compared to their 24 to 35-year-old colleagues. This is linked to their unmanaged work demands and the difficulty in keeping up with the pace of change at work. In addition, younger workers may not have the same level of people skills as older age groups, which could be beneficial in dealing with stress. It's also worth noting that they might not have yet developed the necessary aptitude for adversity this early in their careers.

Promoting good mind health in the workplace

Employers have an important role to play in promoting the health and happiness of their employees. The research reveals that a supportive workplace has a great impact on employee retention, well-being and productivity. To help employers better understand the workforce’s current state, the study presented six key factors that promote well-being in the workplace: hybrid work, mental health support by employers, strong skill/job matching, control over workload, support for skill development, and clear goals and expectations.

To further establish the connection between mind health and productivity in the workplace, respondents were classified into four mind-health states based on their responses: “flourishing” at the top to “getting by,” “languishing” and “struggling.” Flourishing refers to the pinnacle of good mind health, getting by describes those who may have some areas of good wellbeing but not enough to reach the state of flourishing, languishing represents the absence of positive wellbeing and struggling is associated with emotional stress and psychosocial impairment.

Those who are flourishing are more productive at work and are less likely to leave their jobs. The study further explained that Filipinos are two times more productive if their skills matched the work they were being asked to do. They are also five times more likely to flourish and four times more productive if they had at least some decision-making power over how they did their jobs.

"Over the past years, we have seen Filipinos, most especially the younger generation, leaving their jobs abruptly to prioritize their well-being. It is important that we explore the reason behind this great resignation and why Filipinos are struggling at work,” said AXA Philippines Chief Marketing Officer Nandy Villar. “The findings from our latest Mind Health Study reinforce the value of prioritizing mind health in the workplace like we do at AXA, and the need for employers to take a proactive role in addressing these concerns among their employees."

New understanding brings new hope. By taking into consideration the factors that affect good mental health in the workplace, AXA Philippines believes that this will benefit both employers and employees. Through the findings of the recent Mind Health study, it aims to encourage employers to be more attuned to their employees’ well-being.

Access the AXA Study of Mind Health and Wellbeing 2023 at https://www.axa.com/en/about-us/mind-health-report.

Home Credit Philippines eyes further growth with its acquisition by Thailand’s Krungsri, Japan’s MUFG

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Leading consumer finance company Home Credit Philippines (“HC Consumer Finance Philippines, Inc.”) today announced its new shareholders following the completion of its acquisition by Krungsri (“Bank of Ayudhya PCL”), the fifth largest financial group in Thailand and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (“MUFG”), a global financial leader from Japan.

The deal was completed with a base value of EUR 406 million (PHP 24.4 billion). The final consideration is subject to one-to-one adjustment based on the equity book value at closing of the transaction.

PPF Group the parent company of Home Credit Philippines based in Czech Republic  sealed an agreement with MUFG and Krungsri to acquire Home Credit Philippines. Krungsri holds the majority stake of 75% and MUFG the remaining 25%.

“We are pleased to announce the handover of Home Credit Philippines to our new shareholders Krungsri and MUFG, both market leaders in the financial industry. Together with our new shareholders, we are opening the next chapter for Home Credit Philippines, building on the high performance that we have set over the past nine years. We are optimistic of our future together,” shared David Minol, Home Credit Philippines’ CEO.

“The acquisition of Home Credit Philippines is a testament to the strong business it has established in the country and the growth opportunity that Krungsri and MUFG have seen for the company to further expand and maintain its dominance in the local consumer finance market,” Minol added.

“I want to put on record, our congratulations to our colleagues at Home Credit Philippines for an incredible job well done,” said Home Credit Group CEO, Radek Pluhar. “Together, we have empowered nearly 10 million Filipinos to access the formal economy, via our innovative products and services. We are proud of these achievements and will be watching the company’s future growth with interest.”

The company has grown to become a market leader having the widest distribution network of more than 15,000 stores nationwide. This allowed Home Credit Philippines to acquire a growing customer base of almost 10 million as of date in its nearly 10 years of operations in the country.

Krungsri President and Chief Executive Officer Kenichi Yamato said, “With the acquisition of Home Credit in the Philippines, we have achieved another significant milestone in our ASEAN expansion strategy through the successful execution of our medium-term business plan. By incorporating Home Credit in the Philippines into its portfolio, the Bank aims to cater to the evolving financial needs of consumers with a full range of innovative consumer finance products and services. Building upon its strong presence in the high potential country, this acquisition further solidifies Krungsri’s position as a leading financial institution in ASEAN.”

“With the expertise and extensive experience, Krungsri, together with Home Credit, is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for consumer finance solutions and reaffirms its commitment to providing suitable products and services that empower individuals and drive sustainable growth in the market.”

This transaction is set to bolster the business operations of Home Credit Philippines as it continues to provide more Filipinos access to credit while building on Krungsri’s expertise as one of Thailand’s finance leaders.

Home Credit Philippines is expected to retain its brand and continue its usual operations under the same local leadership team, with guidance from Krungsri. The company aims to further grow its consumer finance portfolio as it synergizes with both banks.

Learn more about the latest updates of Home Credit by visiting its official website www.homecredit.ph. Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Challenging times ahead—are you life-secured?

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Achieving life security can mean different things to different people. For some, it can mean having a happy family, a profitable business, or owning a house. For others, it could mean a stable, high-paying job that allows them to live comfortably.

Whatever your definition of life security, achieving this is no simple task—it takes a lot of work, dedication, and focus. What’s more, nobody really knows what the future holds so we must prepare ourselves for anything. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help shape your future for the better. Here are some tips on how you can achieve life security during these uncertain times:

Keep your goals in mind

As you work towards your goals, you’ll have to overcome many obstacles along the way. But as long as you never lose sight of why you are doing this in the first place, you’ll always get back up again. Having this attitude is the first step towards your goals, whether it’s working for a big company or buying your own house.

Build an emergency fund

Nobody knows when emergencies will happen, so it is important that you start an emergency fund as soon as possible. Experts recommend having three to six months’ worth of monthly expenses in your emergency fund. Prioritize building this fund first before investing in anything else, and make sure to not use it for anything that isn’t an emergency. You can even create a separate savings account for it

Borrow with a purpose

Loans can become powerful financial tools when used smartly. For example, when you use a loan to fund a business launch or expansion that becomes profitable, or if you invest it in education to further develop your skills and income-generating capacity. These are examples of purposeful borrowing.

Do not borrow money without a purpose. Using a loan to purchase expensive designer bags or clothing, or to go on an unnecessarily expensive vacation, are not purposeful uses. Always think about how the loan can advance you in your path towards life security.

Secure your retirement

If you happen to have the extra money, set it aside for your retirement. The sooner you start saving up for your retirement, the better, as time and aging cannot be reversed. A good rule of thumb is to try to determine how much you think you’ll be spending once you’re retired and try to grow your extra money with a combination of cash savings, property, and investments.

Consider long-term investments

Investing your money is an excellent way to secure your financial future, since this not only safeguards your hard-earned savings from inflation, it also generates returns. How much returns you get depending on your investment strategy. You will need to look into the different kinds of investments, and determine how much you are willing to invest, as different investments involve varying levels of risk.

If that sounds like too much work, that’s because it is—even seasoned investors get overwhelmed by all the planning, research, and investing. That’s why banks like EastWest offer different products and services that take away the hassle of investing yourself. With multiple investment options such as fixed income securities, government securities, bonds unit investment trust funds, and trust funds, EastWest has the right products and expertise to help you grow your funds, so you can focus on your dreams.

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About East West Banking Corporation

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) is a Filipino-owned universal bank. EastWest is a subsidiary of Filinvest Development Corporation (FDC), one of the country’s leading conglomerates with a diverse range of interests including real estate, banking, hospitality & tourism, infrastructure, power generation, and sugar. It is not affiliated with any foreign financial institution which may bear the same name.

Golden Haven celebrates OFW Week with “Mas PinaWais, Mas PinoYaman,” a weeklong event on financial management

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Golden Haven, the Philippines’ leading provider of premium death-care services, is currently celebrating OFW Week 2023 with a weeklong event that bears the theme “Mas PinaWais, Mas PinoYaman: Offering Filipinos a Wise Investment”. Ongoing until May 29, the grand activity affirms Golden Haven’s reputation as the prime advocate of financial literacy, a subject close to the company that builds the country’s most beautiful memorial parks.

As the theme suggests, "Mas PinaWais, Mas PinoYaman: Offering Filipinos a Wise Investment” is expected to show Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) how to grow their hard-earned money through wise and sustainable investments.

It is a move that is both gratifying and timely. According to Vistaland International, “Overseas Filipino Workers' (OFWs) remittances hit an all-time high in December 2022, wrapping up the past year with a $36.14 billion contribution to the Philippine economy. It’s about time, then, that Golden Haven leads our modern-day heroes to a future of financial freedom and security.

Multiple activities are currently being staged to achieve this end. Among these is a talk on “Investment Opportunities” by Mr. Peter Frances Simon, a certified analyst, digital marketer and project lead of the Market Research Department of Vista Land. Participants will have a chance to seek live assistance from Golden Haven's team and Mr. Simon, and benefit from their expertise in financial management.

A highlight of the event is Golden Haven’s Virtual Road Show, a unique digital experience that takes participants on a tour of Golden Haven’s award-winning memorial properties from the comfort of their homes. With just a computer or mobile device, everyone gets a close scrutiny of the top-tier developer’s beautiful memorial parks nationwide. The Virtual Road Show also provides valuable information on the investment advantages available at Golden Haven, helping potential investors decide where best to place their money.

To top it all, Golden Haven is rolling out exclusive promos for savvy investors. With its exciting discounts, flexible payment terms, and value-adding benefits, OFW Week is turning out to be a truly propitious time to invest in Golden Haven prime properties.

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About Golden Haven

Golden Haven Memorial Park is a subsidiary company of publicly listed Villar-owned Golden MV Holdings Inc. Currently positioned as one of the largest real estate companies in the country. Golden Haven offers premium death care services and prime memorial lots. It is dubbed as the most lucrative real estate investment with an average of 20% annual value appreciation.

Be part of the Golden Haven community today! Visit goldenhaven.com.ph or follow “Golden Haven” on our social media platforms. We are on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Spotify, Tiktok, and Viber. For sales-related inquiries, you may contact (02) 8873-2922 to 23.

The Best Time for Home Repairs is Now

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The hot summer months are here! Now is the best time for you to plan house repairs. Does your roof have a leak from last year that needs to be fixed, or do you need to replace broken doors? Or perhaps you want to repaint your entire house?

No matter what house repairs you need, it is important to plan everything in advance. This means that you know the scope of repairs needed, have the funds you need for the project, and know who to work with. Here are some things to remember when planning for home repairs or improvement:

Assess and Identify Repairs

Identifying which repairs you need, and the materials required for them, are the first important elements to consider, as this will give you a rough idea of how much funding and time you’ll need. Depending on the scope of the repair, you might need to find a temporary place to stay at too—you probably won’t need to move elsewhere if the only renovation needed is an exterior repaint, but you might consider it if extensive interior work will be done. Electrical or plumbing repairs might also interfere with daily life, so planning and assessment is vital before you commit to anything.

Get The Right People for the Job

Good planning must also be accompanied by good work—you need to contact the right people for the job. Find properly vetted contractors that can help you find the best tools and materials. Make sure to ask extensively about their experience. As much as possible, you would want the contractors’ specialties to line up with the renovation or repair that you have in mind. This won’t necessarily be the most affordable, and while cost is an important factor to consider, keep in mind that good repairs will last a long time and give you the most value for your hard-earned money.

Fund Your Repairs with the Right Partner

The best way to get funds for your repair and improvement needs without dipping into your personal savings is through a loan, such as EastWest Home Loan. There are many reasons why this is the way to go:

· Get the funds you need—If you’re short on cash, an EastWest Home Loan can help you get the exact amount you need for your home repair.

· Fixed term rate options—Protect yourself from rate fluctuations by choosing your own fixed term.

· Light and easy repayments—Depending on the amount you loaned, EastWest allows you to stretch the repayment period for up to 30 years, making payments easier and more affordable. Our families’ safety, security, and comfort start with a well-maintained home. Make sure that you have all you need to keep your house in tip-top shape by considering an EastWest Home Loan. 

Visit www.eastwestbanker.com/loans/home-loan to learn more.

Allianz PNB Life Philippines appoints Joseph Gross as new President and CEO

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Allianz PNB Life, one of the leading life insurance companies in the Philippines, recently announced the appointment of Joseph Gross as its new President and CEO. Gross brings over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, having held various senior leadership positions within the Allianz Group.

Joseph Gross, President and CEO, Allianz PNB Life Philippines

Gross first joined Allianz in 2002 as Senior Vice President of Strategic Brand Management and Head of CoC Marketing Management in Munich, Germany. In 2010, he was promoted to the role of Executive Vice President – Head of Group Market Management, where he continued to strengthen local and global brand investments and strategic partnerships. This includes the partnership with Bayern Munich and Formula 1, and the recognition as the Number One insurance brand in the world by the Interbrand rankings. 

In addition, Gross was the global lead in the implementation of the True Customer Centricity strategy, a key performance metric used within the Allianz Group network. From 2016 to 2022, he served as CEO of Allianz Life Insurance Malaysia Bhd. Under his leadership, Allianz Malaysia reached the top 5 ranking in Allianz globally, with 60% revenue (GWP) growth, a massive increase in profitability, new business value, customer satisfaction, and employee engagement.

Gross joins Allianz PNB Life Philippines from his previous role in Germany as Head of Global Executive Strategy and Development, where he was responsible for identifying, placing, and developing the top management of the company.

“I am very excited to build on our accomplishments in the Philippines. Thanks to the leadership of my predecessor, Alex Grenz, and our management team, Allianz PNB Life has become one of the leading life insurance companies in the industry six years after our founding. I look forward to sharing my knowledge and experience in other markets to further strengthen our brand and enhance the experience of our customers, partners, and colleagues,” enthused Gross.

Allianz PNB Life is a joint venture between Allianz Group and PNB, established in 2016. It is now among the country’s leading life insurers and the #1 bancassurance partner, with a comprehensive portfolio of Variable Life products, complemented by a full line of Life protection offerings for individuals and institutions. All their products and services are designed to meet the lifetime financial planning, wealth accumulation, and well-being aspirations of every Filipino family.

"We at Allianz PNB Life are committed to our purpose of securing the lives of more Filipinos. To achieve this, we will consistently introduce new solutions and enhance the ease of doing business with us. Working together with our Life Changers and key partners such as PNB, our organization will strengthen our reputation for placing the customer at the center of everything we do,” assured Gross.

With the appointment of President and CEO Joseph Gross, Allianz PNB Life Philippines is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory and deliver value to customers and stakeholders.

More information about AZPNB is available at allianzpnblife.ph or @allianzpnblifeofficial in Facebook.