Inspiring Minds with the Gift of Literacy : MoneyGram Foundation, The Asia Foundation and Robin Padilla launch Library on Wheels

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The MoneyGram Foundation awarded a new grant worth more than $50,000 to the Asia Foundation in the Philippines as it announced during an event.  MoneyGram Ambassador Robin Padilla leading the launching of Library on Wheels held at the Aurora Quezon Elementary School in San Andres, Manila, on Tuesday, October 9, 2018. 

The grant will provide 50,000 new books and 20 “MoneyGram Library on Wheels” to 100 schools in the Philippines over two years. The books, valued at $1.5 million, will directly benefit more than 500,000 students and teachers across underserved and rural Filipino communities.Over the next two years, four major events will be held at five schools without traditional libraries.

Education is the foundation of a generation's future. Representatives from both organizations spoke about the importance of literacy and education.

“The MoneyGram Foundation is committed to providing equal education to every child, especially those in underserved communities. By supporting the Asia Foundation’s mission to provide access to books and libraries across the Philippines, we are standing behind the idea that equal learning opportunities should be available for all, “ said Joann Chatfield, Chief Marketing Officer at MoneyGram.

Celebrity, actor, producer and advocate, MoneyGram ambassador Robin Padilla always support to this endeavor of promoting literacy to the country.

https://www.facebook.com/myrns.roman/videos/10214720900269138/

Programs aimed at boosting literacy and providing students with access to books have proven to have positive outcomes in the quality of education. Through the mobile “MoneyGram Gift Carts” and books, the Asia Foundation will be able to reach far flung communities that wouldn’t have access to learning resources.

“The Asia Foundation has provided books to the Philippines since 1954 and continues to believe in the power of literacy to positively impact lives, both now and in the future. The Asia Foundation is grateful to the MoneyGram Foundation for its support in helping communities across the Philippines,” said Deputy Country Representative Ethan Geary.

Visit MoneyGram Philippines website and on https://www.facebook.com/moneygram/.

MoneyGram Strengthens Partnership with GCash in the Philippines

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After the successful launch of direct receive service, MoneyGram and GCash announced recently that customers worldwide can now also send money to over 10 million GCash mobile wallets in the Philippines, 24/7. 

This partnership supports further growth of MoneyGram’s digital channels in the world’s third largest remittances receive market. 

“With the growing number of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) looking for a reliable way to send money back home, the collaboration with GCash aligns with our strategy to provide user-friendly, rapid-response and low-cost channels to send money across borders,” said Alex Holmes, MoneyGram’s chairman and chief executive officer. 

“The expansion of digital channels combined with a strong network of agent locations, enables MoneyGram to offer a differentiated customer experience that allows consumers to transact with us their way,” added Holmes. 

Funds can be sent via MoneyGram online or at any one of MoneyGram’s thousands of locations in 200 countries and territories around the world to reach a GCash mobile wallet in minutes. Money will be deposited into the mobile wallet in the Philippine Peso. The receiver will get an SMS notification of every incoming money transfer and will be able to use funds instantly for purchasing goods and services online or paying bills. 

“We are delighted to partner with MoneyGram once more to improve the way remittances are processed in the Philippines. GCash is committed to make the experience of sending money more convenient for both the sender and receiver. The OFWs and their families are a big segment of the remittance business as well as a key contributor to the country’s economy. We need to do more for them and we think this partnership with MoneyGram leads us to that direction,” said Anthony Thomas, President and CEO of Mynt, the operator of GCash. 

The launch of the new service was followed by a presentation of an OFW Family Card which allows customers to withdraw their money for free twice a month at any BancNet ATM in the Philippines. The OFW Family Card will be awarded to each registered and verified GCash user who receives a minimum of PHP 500 via MoneyGram between September 15 and December 30. 

For more information about the service, please visit moneygram.ph.

MoneyGram and GCash Partnership: Bringing financial services to every Filipino

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MoneyGram announced its partnership with GCash, the mobile wallet and micropayment arm of Mynt, in a move that promises to further improve financial inclusion in the Philippines.

Through the new united system, thousands of GCash users can now receive money from over 200 countries and territories on their mobile wallet and use the funds instantly for purchasing goods and services online.

Convenience and ease at your fingertips

Between over 30 million active smartphone users and the growing Internet penetration in the Philippines, the collaboration between GCash and MoneyGram is a powerful strategy that aligns with MoneyGram's goal to offer consumers more digital money transfer options.

Yogesh Sangle, Head of Asia Pacific, Middle East and South Asia, explains that MoneyGram’s goal of equitable financial inclusion envisions a world where financial services are not only accessible, but also free or available at minimum cost. “Aside from convenience, MoneyGram ensures that there is no additional charge to use the service, although a standard charge applies for the transfer of money out of a user’s GCash wallet,” he supplies.

Providing customers with utmost convenience has always been one of MoneyGram's thrust for its customers. And with the new partnership, it further reinforces its promise by providing customers access to their remittances, anytime, anywhere. All they need is a simple touch of a button on their GCash app.

After completing the KYC process via GCash app, a customer can receive money directly on the mobile wallet. This is additional, convenient channel for the customers in the Philippines to receive money their way.

Sangle also emphasizes that MoneyGram’s global reach, consisting of over 350,000 agent locations in over 200 countries and territories, provides the groundwork for this easily accessible and reliable service.

“Apart from sending money in person, customers can transfer funds to their families and friends online (from the U.S., the UK, Germany, France and Spain). In most of destinations with The MoneyGram services are especially beneficial for OFWs and their families, providing a convenient way to send remittances from all over the world.

According to POEA 2017 data, there are 12 million OFWs spread around the world, many of whom send a significant portion of their salary to their families back home. The partnership with GCash eliminates the need for family members receiving this money to go to a MoneyGram location. They can directly receive any amount on their mobile wallet. What’s more, the money they receive is readily available for purchasing goods and services online.

Of course, the service could be used literally by anyone – it’s easy, user-friendly and convenient.

Directly impacted, however, are of course GCash users – around 1 million active users- providing a convenient solution for the users who live in remote areas and those who don’t have an easy access to the financial system. MoneyGram’s services allow them to receive money directly to their mobile wallet and use it immediately to pay for goods and services - can buy load, pay bills, scan-to-pay using QR codes at the mall and much more.

No hidden charges or extra steps

Yogesh Sangle, Head of Asia Pacific, Middle East and South Asia, explains that MoneyGram’s goal of equitable financial inclusion envisions a world where financial services are not only accessible, but also free or available at minimum cost. 

“Aside from convenience, MoneyGram ensures that there is no additional charge to use the service, although a standard charge applies for the transfer of money out of a user’s GCash wallet,” Yogesh Sangle, Head of Asia Pacific, Middle East and South Asia,

Providing customers with utmost convenience has always been one of MoneyGram's thrust for its customers. And with the new partnership, it further reinforces its promise by providing customers access to their remittances, anytime, anywhere. All they need is a simple touch of a button on their GCash app.

After completing the KYC process via GCash app, a customer can receive money directly on the mobile wallet. This is additional, convenient channel for the customers in the Philippines to receive money their way.

Sangle also emphasizes that MoneyGram’s global reach, consisting of over 350,000 agent locations in over 200 countries and territories, provides the groundwork for this easily accessible and reliable service.

“Apart from sending money in person, customers can transfer funds to their families and friends online (from the U.S., the UK, Germany, France and Spain). In most of destinations with significant Filipino communities, they can also use an ATM or self-service kiosk to perform a transaction (such as 7-Eleven stores in Australia). MoneyGram also provides the added value of compliance, having invested in a world-class compliance platform and the services of talented experts to strengthen the integrity of their services and enhance the security of customer transactions.”

Also, Anthony Thomas, Chief Executive Officer of MYNT quipped, "We’re excited about our strategic partnership with MoneyGram. Now GCash customers can enjoy the convenience of receiving money from their families abroad directly into their GCash mobile wallet. With these funds they can buy load, pay bills, scan-to-pay using QR codes at the mall and much more. Plus, customers can enjoy exclusive incentives the more funds they receive in their GCash wallet.”

March Promo

To celebrate the new partnership, MoneyGram and GCash have launched a promotion that will run for 3 months starting March 1 . New users will receive P200 for their first transaction with the new MoneyGram service powered by the GCash app.

For more information about the service, please visit moneygram.ph and http://www.gcashpromos.com/gcashmoneygrampromo/

About MoneyGram International

MoneyGram is a global provider of innovative money transfer and payment services and is recognized worldwide as a financial connection to friends and family. Whether online, or through a mobile device, at a kiosk or in a local store, we connect consumers any way that is convenient for them. We also provide bill payment services, issue money orders and process official checks in select markets. More information about MoneyGram International, Inc. is available at moneygram.com.

About GCash

GCash is an internationally-acclaimed micropayment service that transforms the mobile phone into a virtual wallet for secure, fast, and convenient money transfer. GCash can be used to buy prepaid load, pay bills, send money, make donations, shop online, and even purchase goods without the need to bring any cash. For more information, please visit https://www.globe.com.ph/gcash

About Mynt

Mynt is a partnership between Globe Telecom, the Ayala Corporation, and Ant Financial, that provides innovative and first-in-world fintech solutions to consumers, merchants, and organizations. Its vision is to enable financial access for consumers and merchants by disrupting traditional channels through digital financial technology services. It operates two fintech companies: GCash, a micropayment service that transforms the mobile phone into a virtual wallet for secure, fast, and convenient money transfer, and Fuse, a tech-based lending company that enables Filipinos to get microloans to business loans without the traditional requirements set by banks and other lending institutions. For more information, visit mynt.xyz.

Your saving habits mean that much to your loved ones abroad

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Did you know that managing your budget wisely is one of the smartest and most thoughtful ways to show love and appreciation for a family member who works overseas?

Daily work routine can be draining for an overseas Filipino but seeing the family enjoy every possible comfort is sometimes enough source of relief amidst all the exhaustion. When overseas Filipinos see that their families spend a bit too much, they tend to feel the lack of appreciation for all their hard work. 

When you save portions of the received money and spend it thoughtfully, you prove to be  trustworthy and reliable. Your money saving habits are a sign  that your loved one’s hard work is valued and you’re not leaving them alone in sacrificing to provide for a better life for your family.

If you want to start showing more love for the family member who works abroad, here are a few things that you can consider:

Allocate portion of the money you receive to your savings...immediately

The old formula of saving only lets you set aside what's left of what you spend on living. But when you save at least 10% of what you receive and spend the rest afterwards, you can be sure to have more savings after some time. This habit also lets you have more control on the amount you spend for your daily needs.

Save for something

When you have something in mind as to where your savings can go, you have more motivation to hit your savings target earlier than you’ve initially planned. It would be a sweet gesture to save for something that your family member from abroad would want to buy in the future. Imagine how happy they will be when they realize that the dream is waiting back home.

  

Track your expenses

You may not be fond of keeping receipts but it is about time to start organizing them. Taking note of your personal and household expenses lets you find out how you overspend or underspend on certain items. Tracking your expenses helps determine where you can cut to save more or allocate funds to other items.

Keep your money safe

People forget that keeping their money safe is just as important as spending wisely. Nobody wants to see the fruit of their hard work go down the drain so it matters to know how you can secure your financial transactions. 

Thanks to money transfer services like MoneyGram, those who work in far-flung places can be sure that their money will reach its intended recipients. With more than 350,000 locations in 200 countries and territories, MoneyGram also facilitates easier remittances for Filipino families all over the world.

In the Philippines, MoneyGram has partnered with agents like SM, BDO, Metrobank, Cebuana Lhuillier, M. Lhuillier, Allied Bank, and Smart Money, so that recipients can pick up their money at the most convenient location.

By employing these starter tips on managing finances, the family of an overseas Filipino is sure to keep their finances secure and their loved one proud of their practices towards achieving financial freedom.

MoneyGram Foundation, with Ambassador Robin Padilla Donates Books to Support Early Education in the Ph

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Education is the most important source of children’s development, it fulfills the role in forming their full persona in the country. For many, it is more necessary to invest on education due to its effect on the future country.

MoneyGram, a global provider of innovative money transfer services, through the MoneyGram Foundation, has reinforced its commitment to support early child education in the Philippines.

MoneyGram Foundation believe that education is at the heart of better economic opportunities, healthier families and individual freedom and empowerment.

Robin Padilla, MoneyGram's brand ambassador

With MoneyGram's brand ambassador, Robin Padilla, during a recent event at the University of the Philippines Integrated School (UP IS) in Pasig City, the MoneyGram Foundation donated school supplies and art, mathematics, literature and science books for the benefit of hundreds of school children.

Alex Lim, MoneyGram’s country manager for the Philippines

“There is no doubt about the positive impact of early education in the life of a child. By making learning resources more accessible we are children to learn and gain skills they need to transform their lives and the reality of their families,” said Alex Lim, MoneyGram’s country manager for the Philippines.

Books are from the US,  elementary and college, business, art books, social sciences, and others, about almost all subjects.  These are great for references And also, donating books are distributed to libraries.

Last Sunday, April 2, art workshop was held with UP IS students , media, and Robin Padilla , held at the Chan Lim Art Studio.

MoneyGram is well-known for supporting educational programs and activities worldwide that result in better economic prospects, healthier families, individual freedom, and empowerment. During last two years, MoneyGram has delivered school supplies to barrio schools in various Indigenous Peoples communities and built classrooms for school children in Central Visayas in the Philippines.

“We hope that by providing educational materials, we will inspire children to keep learning, keep dreaming and to grasp the opportunities that occur every day,” said Lim. 

“We are extremely grateful for MoneyGram’s generous contribution to the education of our youth. These books will help fuel their inquisitive minds to go further in their pursuit of knowledge,“ said Mr. Chito Angeles, University of the Philippines Head Librarian. “As educators, we hope that our students will be able to contribute to the progress of our society one day.”

The event was attended by Robin Padilla, MoneyGram's brand ambassador, Sabrina Chan, MoneyGram’s marketing lead for APAC, Joseph Consul, MoneyGram’s marketing manager for the Philippines.

University of the Philippines Integrated School (UP IS) is the country’s pioneer integrated school and the laboratory school for the University of the Philippines College of Education in Diliman, Quezon City. It offers education starting from kindergarten to a senior high school level. 

About MoneyGram International, Inc.

MoneyGram is a global provider of innovative money transfer and payment services and is recognized worldwide as a financial connection to friends and family. Whether online, or through a mobile device, at a kiosk or in a local store, we connect consumers any way that is convenient for them. We also provide bill payment services, issue money orders and process official checks in select markets. In 2016 MoneyGram received the “Remittance Product of the Year” award from The Asian Banker. More information about MoneyGram International, Inc. is available at moneygram.com

About MoneyGram Foundation 

MoneyGram established the MoneyGram Foundation in 2012 to help children around the world gain access to educational facilities and learning resources. Its mission is firmly rooted in the belief that education is at the heart of better economic opportunities, healthier families and individual freedom and empowerment. The MoneyGram Foundation is focused on inspiring minds and improving lives and grants funds to deserving organizations with this mission in mind. To learn more, please visit moneygramfoundation.org or connect with us on Facebook.

Pencils Without Borders

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MoneyGram partners with Black Pencil Project to deliver learning and teaching materials to schools in remote areas of the Philippines

Out of 30 high school graduates, only 8 to 10 continue their education and move on to college, while the rest choose to become farmers, casual laborers or decide to start a family at a very young age. This is the reality faced by the youth of Sta. Ines in Tanay, Rizal. It may be only a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Manila but it is worlds apart in opportunities. Situated in distant mountains of Tanay, one must cross nine rivers to be able to get to Sta. Ines Elementary School.

Out of the school’s 260 pupils, 40 represent Dumagats, an indigenous tribe with roots tracing from the Aetas. They were sea gypsies: semi-nomadic people who made their homes along the coast of Quezon. Living in a remote area, the community has difficulty in getting access to education. The mountains they live in may paint a beautiful landscape to the province but it serves as an obstacle wall to the community.

Thanks to the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act of 1997, the elementary school in Sta. Ines was able to establish satellite classrooms in the Dumagat communities and worked closely with the Department of Education to a create a customized curriculum for the tribe’s children. Teachers of Sta. Ines also learned the Dumagat language so that it would be easier for students to understand the lessons.

“We can’t do it alone”, shares Sta. Ines Elementary School Principal Adoracion Valdez. “We need stakeholders who can help us empower the children and show them that it is possible to graduate from the school and accomplish  anything they want.”

Mrs. Valdez, the seventh of 10 children, said her parents had always motivated her. Despite being simple farmers, they struggled to be able to send all their children to school. “That gift is immeasurable”, she said. “My parents believed that education is the only inheritance they could give us.”

This belief is shared by 13-year-old Elizabeth Laurio, a sixth-grade student at the Sta. Ines Elementary School, who upon her mother’s untimely death last year, had to step up to become a "mother" to her five younger siblings. Many times, Elizabeth had to absent herself from school to look after the children at home.

Elizabeth doing laundry

Elizabeth in front of their house

Elizabeth lets circumstances surrounding her motivate her, even more, to continue her studies and fulfill the dream of becoming a teacher to help her family and many more children in her village break out of the cycle of poverty.

“Dreams are free”, she said in Filipino. “So I will hold tight to my dream.”

The solution

In order to help children like Elizabeth fulfill their dreams, MoneyGram, a global provider of innovative money transfer services, through the MoneyGram Foundation, donated P1 million to the Black Pencil Project, a civilian volunteer organization helping to promote primary education and welfare to remote and indigenous Philippine communities to promote children's primary education and welfare.

MoneyGram Foundation’s mission is firmly rooted in the belief that education is the key to better economic opportunities, healthier families, individual freedom, and empowerment.

The donation will benefit at least six barrio schools and provide at least 2,500 students from kindergarten to grade six with prescribed pencils, writing pads, notebooks, and art materials.

Aside from Sta. Ines, MoneyGram will provide supplies to the Ivatans and Ifugaos of Banawe from Cambulo Elementary School, the Dumagats of Rizal from Casili Elementary School, and the Aetas of Tarlac from Labney Elementary school in Mayantoc Tarlac. Other communities that will benefit from this donation include the Ivatans of Batanes from Sabtang Central Elementary School, the Palawanons of Palawan from Cagayan Elementary School, and the Mangyans of Mindoro from Sablayan Elementary School.

“This is our way of reaching out to our brothers from the marginalized communities to let them know they are not alone in reaching their dreams”, said Alex Lim, MoneyGram Philippine country manager. 

“We firmly believe that education is the key to a better tomorrow.” A belief shared by Adoracion Valdez and Elizabeth Laurio. 

“I know it’s possible. I’ve seen it happen in my life. I want to empower my students to do the same like my parents did once for me”, added Valdez.

About MoneyGram International, Inc.

MoneyGram is a global provider of innovative money transfer and payment services and is recognized worldwide as a financial connection to friends and family. Whether online, or through a mobile device, at a kiosk or in a local store, we connect consumers any way that is convenient for them. We also provide bill payment services, issue money orders and process official checks in select marketsMore information about MoneyGram International, Inc. is available at moneygram.com

About MoneyGram Foundation 

MoneyGram established the MoneyGram Foundation in 2012 to help children around the world gain access to educational facilities and learning resources. Its mission is firmly rooted in the belief that education is at the heart of better economic opportunities, healthier families and individual freedom and empowerment. The MoneyGram Foundation is focused on inspiring minds and improving lives and grants funds to deserving organizations with this mission in mind. To learn more, please visit moneygramfoundation.org or connect with us on Facebook. 

No More One Day Millionaire This 2017

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Do you know the term ‘one day millionaire’? 

Manage your money wisely when you earn your first paycheck and don’t give in to that one-day splurge habit so that you’re not crawling your way to the next paycheck.

According to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Filipinos receive large amount each year from OFW padala. But why do most Filipinos still feel as if money is scarce?

It’s about time to change old habits and end the cycle of mismanaged finances. We’ve listed down five helpful tips to be more financially responsible this year:

1. Budgeting 

As OFWs send money hassle-free anytime and anywhere in the world withMoneyGram’s global network of approximately 350,000 locations in 200 countries and territories worldwide, relatives back home must learn to allocate the padala accordingly.

Know where your money is going. The classic formula of Income – Savings = Expenses would come in handy. Decide how much you’d like to save before listing down all your expenses. It’s best to write it down on a spreadsheet or use the envelope method to ensure you don’t dip your hands into money allotted for other categories.

2. Credit Cards: On Interests and Debts

Credit cards should be used for convenience, not to make ends meet. They are actually handy as they eliminate cash transactions and offer great rewards, however, just be sure that you can pay the bill in full, otherwise, it will incur interests and cause you to get into debt. If you can’t pay for it in full, it means you are living beyond your means.

3. Necessity or Luxury

When purchasing something, always ask yourself --- is it a necessity or a luxury? For example, you might need a place to live, but you don’t need a mansion unless you can pay for it in cash. Or purchasing a phone in a financially responsible manner means being able to pay for it in cash. Consider purchasing a refurbished phone for a cheaper upgrade. If you’re having difficulty paying for these financial guidelines, but would still like to buy the more expensive one, ask yourself “why?”. If the reason is because everyone has it, do keep in mind that your neighbors are not the one paying for your bills, so they should not dictate your choices nor your standard of living.

4. Pay Yourself First

Spending every centavo of your paycheck is not being financially responsible. A good principle is to pay yourself 10% in savings before you pay your bills. You can also opt to invest in stock market to get higher returns. This will involve risks so make a calculated one at that and have a plan. Banks generally offer a wide range of products for you to choose from. Try asking if your employer has a sponsored savings plan available. Most plans match your contribution up to a certain percentage, so by contributing at least enough to get the match, you’ll earn a guaranteed return on investment (ROI). 

5. Emergency Fund

Being financially responsible means being prepared for the unexpected. Most experts agree that you need to be able to support yourself at least 6 months without an income. If you are living with dual incomes, make sure you can pay for bills and utilities on one income or even neither income! If a missed paycheck will ruin you financially, it is high time to create a plan to prevent this.

Ultimately, being financially responsible is living within your means and doing what you have to do to take care of your needs and the needs of your family. So evaluate your earning and spending habits and make the necessary adjustments to put yourself on a responsible footing.

About MoneyGram International, Inc.

MoneyGram is a global provider of innovative money transfer and payment services and is recognized worldwide as a financial connection to friends and family. Whether online, or through a mobile device, at a kiosk or in a local store, we connect consumers any way that is convenient for them. We also provide bill payment services, issue money orders and process official checks in select markets. In 2016 MoneyGram received the “Remittance Product of the Year” award from The Asian Banker. More information about MoneyGram International, Inc. is available at moneygram.com

Sources:

1. ADB Economics Working Paper Series

2. BSP: Overseas Filipino Remittances

3. 2015c. Monthly and Quarterly Remittances Flows to Selected Countries. Washington, DC: World Bank.

MoneyGram Brings Overseas Filipino Workers Closer to their Families

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This holiday season MoneyGram launches two campaigns to recognize millions of Filipinos working overseas and their families back home as modern day heroes.

“We understand the challenges and emotional stress experienced by families that are set apart. We want to bring them together not only thanks to our reliable and convenient money transfers but also give them a chance to reunite for the holidays,” says Alex Chan Lim, country manager for the Philippines at MoneyGram.

In the spirit of “Welcome Home Kabayan” promotion, MoneyGram aims to bring home an Overseas Filipino Worker living in Japan to meet with family and friends in the Philippines. The promotion is open to all customers who send money with MoneyGram either in a SBI Remit location or online until December 31. 

“MoneyGram Idol Awards” are designed to honor our modern day heroes with one-of-a-kind gathering to take place in May 2017. 

To participate in this contest, receivers should:

Visit http://global.moneygram.com/ph/en between December 5, 2016 and March 5, 2017 and fill in a simple form.

By providing their personal as well as transaction details, participants get the chance to win cash prizes (20 x 5,00 pesos and 10 x 20,000 pesos) as well as an invitation to a special dinner hosted by MoneyGram in May, 2017. 

Lucky winners will be announced in the 4th week of March 2017. 

“Philippines is one of the world’s largest remittance markets, according to the World Bank. In 2015 over $28 billion flowed into the country constituting for 9.6% of its’s GDP. At MoneyGram, we firmly believe that the money OFWs send back home provide not only for everyday needs of their families but also support them in achieving their dreams linked to education and investments,” added Lim.

#moneygramnews

Robin Padilla presents how MoneyGram Making Dreams Possible with Educational Partnership with Black Pencil Project

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MoneyGram Global Brand Ambassador Robin Padilla during the MoneyGram and Black Pencil Project partnership media presentation held at The Manila Peninsula Makati, September 21, 2016.

MoneyGram, a global provider of innovative money transfer services, through the MoneyGram Foundation, strengthens its thrust of helping children around the world gain access to educational facilities and learning resources, with its new partnership with the Black Pencil Project for the “School-in-A-Box Program.” 

 Andrea Maramotti, MoneyGram International’s Vice President for
Marketing -AMEAP, Russia & CIS, 

On September 21, 2016, MoneyGram International’s Vice President for Marketing -AMEAP, Russia & CIS, Andrea Maramotti, and hands over their donation worth Php1million to the Black Pencil Project’s founder Mon Corpuz through a symbolic RED PENCIL turnover. This is a momentous turnover of the 1 million pencils to the children for the ‘”School-in-A-Box Program”. 

MoneyGram Foundation’s mission is firmly rooted in the belief that education is the key to better economic opportunities, healthier families and individual freedom and empowerment. 

“Our Php1million will go a long way. The School-in-A-Box program will provide complete study packs, teacher’s kits, and relevant learning resource materials for the marginalized children from the indigenous communities,” says Andrea Maramotti, MoneyGram International Head of Marketing for Emerging Markets.

Mon Corpuz, Black Pencil Project Founder

The Black Pencil Project is an independent civilian volunteer organization that assists select schools from far-flung areas all over the country. Founded in June 2008, the Black Pencil Project was founded by photographer Mon Corpuz.

“We are prioritizing critical cultural communities, and we’ve worked to improve children’s education, health, and well-being with indigenous people’s (IP) rights in mind,” says Mon. “We believe that by helping the children of IP communities, we contribute to their plight for survival amidst the threats of cultural degeneration,” he adds.

MoneyGram’s donation will benefit at least six barrio schools equipping them with basic school supplies for both children and teachers during the school year. The donation will provide at least 2,500 students from kinder to grade 6 with prescribed pencils, writing pads, notebooks and art materials relevant to their current grade level.

Target communities include the Ivatans and Ifugaos of Banawe from Cambulo Elementary School, the Dumagats of Rizal from Casili Elementary schools, and the Aetas of Tarlac from Labney Elementary school in Mayantoc Tarlac. The MoneyGram employees will personally visit and hand these school supplies to the children. 

Other communities that will benefit from this donation include the Ivatans of Batanes from Sabtang Central Elementary School, the Palawanons of Palawan from Cagayan Elementary School, and the Mangyans of Mindoro from Sablayan Elementary School. 

“This our way of reaching out to our brothers from the marginalized communities to let them know that they are not alone in reaching their dreams. We firmly believe that education is the key to a better tomorrow,” said Alex Chan Lim, Philippine MoneygGram Country Manager. He also pointed out that "this activity, along with the four classroom structures MoneyGram donated in Bohol last March 2016 and November 2015, exemplifies our company's thrust and commitment in transforming the lives of the communities and customers we serve by providing them with meaningful access to education. We are optimistic that these activities will help uplift and enrich the lives of children through education". 

About MoneyGram International, Inc.

MoneyGram is a global provider of innovative money transfer and payment services and is recognized worldwide as a financial connection to friends and family. Whether online, or through a mobile device, at a kiosk or in a local store, we connect consumers any way that is convenient for them. We also provide bill payment services, issue money orders and process official checks in select markets. In 2016 MoneyGram received the “Remittance Product of the Year” award from The Asian Banker. More information about MoneyGram International, Inc. is available at moneygram.com

About MoneyGram Foundation 

MoneyGram established the MoneyGram Foundation in 2012 to help children around the world gain access to educational facilities and learning resources. Its mission is firmly rooted in the belief that education is at the heart of better economic opportunities, healthier families and individual freedom and empowerment. The MoneyGram Foundation is focused on inspiring minds and improving lives and grants funds to deserving organizations with this mission in mind. To learn more, please visit moneygramfoundation.org or connect with us on Facebook. 

MoneyGram and the Globe are marks of MoneyGram. © 2016 MoneyGram.

MoneyGram Helps to Bring OFWs Closer To Their Families; Robin Padilla Continues as Brand Ambassador

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MoneyGram, a global provider of innovative money transfer and payment services, continues its legacy of connecting consumers with their loved ones with fast and reliable transaction by launching its new global campaign “MoneyGram – Bringing Our Customers Closer”.

Alex Chan Lim, MoneyGram Philippines Country Manager and Robin Padilla at the MoneyGram launched of new global campaign and renews Robin Padilla as brand ambassador, on July  6, 2016 held at The Peninsula Manila, Makati City.

The remittance company also renewed its contract with multi-talented Filipino actor Robin Padilla acting as its global brand ambassador.

MoneyGram, whether online, or through a mobile device, at a kiosk or in a local store, connect consumers any way that is convenient for them. In making sure the OFWs' families’ financial and communications needs are met at the time they need them.

Alex Chan Lim, MoneyGram Philippines Country Manager, leads all in-country efforts in this important remittance country and focus on managing relationships and growing MoneyGram’s network, products and market share. Alex represents MoneyGram with regulators and builds relationships within government agencies which support and manage the Overseas Filipino Workers program. In addition, he develops corridor plans aligned with send markets that tap into the global remittance market.

MoneyGram recognizes that modern-day Filipino heroes or “Heroes of the Sea” don’t need to do great feats or wear capes to be called heroes. They battle bouts of loneliness and nostalgia each day as they are separated from their loved ones. At the same time they continuously strive to work hard to be able to provide a better life for their families back in the Philippines. This is already a legitimate reason to salute and celebrate them. 

“For more than 75 years, MoneyGram has been helping people around the world and their families to stay connected across borders and boundaries, oceans and countries. It is our honor to be able to assist and support our Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) in sending money to their loved ones and becoming their bridge to a better life” says Yogesh Sangle, senior regional director of MoneyGram for Asia & Pacific.

MoneyGram offers global network of approximately 350,000 locations in 200 countries and territories worldwide and more than 12,000 locations across the Philippines. This allows Filipinos to send and receive cash from anywhere in the world.

Receivers can conveniently claim their remittances in the Philippines through trusted partner locations. Additionally, OFW family members can now send their remittances directly to their loved ones’ bank accounts at any bank in the Philippines through MoneyGram’s cash-to-account service. 

Each family member plays an active and vital role in pulling the family closer together in the absence of one or both OFW’s parents. The amount of emotional devotion that is required from them is something that both MoneyGram and Robin Padilla admire.

“I am delighted to be a part of MoneyGram once more because I believe in what they stand for. OFWs are there for their family and friends to financially assist them with life challenging situations” shares Padilla. 

“MoneyGram’s priority is to connect our consumers with their loved ones by providing convenient and reliable financial connection for life’s essentials and daily needs. We allow them to be as close as possible by providing financial support for their children” adds Sangle.

With reliable, 10-minute money transfers, subject to agent’s operating hours and compliance with regulatory requirements, MoneyGram positively impacts millions of people every day by providing industry leading customer experience at every interaction and access to financial services for consumers and businesses around the world.

MoneyGram, whether online, or through a mobile device, at a kiosk or in a local store, connect consumers any way that is convenient for them. We also provide bill payment services, issue money orders and process official checks in select markets. 

More information about MoneyGram International, Inc. is available at moneygram.com. 

Love, glory and sacrifice : Heroes across the sea

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Loving from the distance... People live away from their loved ones back home, delude themselves into thinking that they can live everyday life elsewhere around the world, and hope, pray and expect that the people they left behind will always be there safe and live comfortably.

People always ask themselves "what are you willing to do for the people you love?"

For Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), this question is something they live with every day. Every day, they answer it by spending time away from their families, working in a different world. Every day they choose to help, often at the cost of their own comfort. 

Working abroad requires big changes. It means going out of comfort zones and taking chances far from the convenience of the place they call home. Bringing their talents abroad for the sake of uplifting loved ones back in the country involves dedication, a strong will, and unarguably, a big heart. 

For actor and TV personality Robin Padilla, calling these people “modern day heroes” is not enough for the amount of glory and sacrifice they give to the country. The actor, who is an avid advocate of OFWs, can very much relate to the stories these people tell.

“Hindi ako bago sa kanila. Baliktad lang siguro ang sitwasyon ko dahil ako kumikita ako dito at pinapadala ko sa Australia. Pero alam ko ang pakiramdam ng malayo sa mga anak ko. (I’m not new to their situation. Maybe it’s the opposite because in my case I earn money here and send it to Australia. But I know the feeling of being away from my children.),” Robin added. 

The drive of these modern heroes and their dedication towards their loved ones are aspects that have always resonated with him. He shares the facets that make him admire these people succinctly and emphatically. 

“Kung sakripisyo lang, lahat naman tayo nagsasakripisyo eh. Yung tibay talaga. Kapag andun ka sa ibang bansa at solo ka, iba yun. (If it’s just about sacrifice, we all make them. It is really the strength of these people. It is different when you are in a different country alone.).”

Touching the hearts of OFWs

The actor’s innate compassion for these individuals is the reason why he was chosen by a leading global money remittance service to serve as its face--and heart. Alex Chan Lim, Country Manager of MoneyGram International, Inc., Philippines praises the man for his sincere stand towards OFWs. 

“There was a meeting of the minds. When we first talked to him, we saw how he keeps true to his word. All the things that he says, they come from the heart.”

He elaborates, “He isn’t the type of person who would just go out there for the sake of his job as an endorser. He has genuine care that touches the hearts of these people. And once you touch the softness of their heart, the rest will follow.”

The actor, who has represented MoneyGram since 2012, has been an effective conduit that connects Filipinos abroad to the culture they have temporarily left behind in the country. With the help of the brand, the TV personality has actively reached out to OFWs through a series of performances to bring joy to these modern heroes.

MoneyGram has been participating and at some cases, mounting its own shows for free as part of their efforts for the OFWs. Padilla religiously participates in them to gamely entertain the OFW communities across the sea. 

Lim shares one particular experience they had abroad. “There was a time when we went to Saudi Arabia and we met an OFW who works at the hotel we checked in. When he saw us, he naturally got awestruck with Robin. He returned three times just to talk to us. We talked for hours and not once did I see Robin show signs that he was tired.”

“What really surprised me is that he gave something that is really personal to him. That is out of his responsibilities as a brand endorser but he did it,” he continues. 

Robin gave one of the shirts he uses for his prayer sessions. “Sabi ko sa kanya, etong pangdasal ko na to, ang daming humihingi. Hindi ko to binigay pero ibibigay ko ito sayo. (I told him, there are so many people who asked me for this. I didn’t give it to them but I am giving this to you.)”

A progressive approach

Lim and Padilla pride their approach towards OFWs as progressive. 

“Nagsimula kami sa malasakit. Pero progressive kami sa approach. Sa mga performances, yung mga nagawa na namin, hindi na namin inuulit. (We started with compassion. But we are progressive with our approach. When it comes to performances, we do not repeat what we have done already.),” Robin explains.

This kind of approach is what MoneyGram also applies to their business. “It’s a very transparent service. MoneyGram doesn’t have hidden charges. Whatever amount the OFW sends, it is the exact same amount that their family in the Philippines receives*,” says Lim. “Of course we are improving on other services. It is progressive.” 

These are just some of the ways that MoneyGram brings families closer. The brand has been to Japan, Singapore, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Lebanon to name a few out of over 200 countries and territories. For this year, the company has laid out more plans to touch the lives of more Filipinos with Robin actively pitching in for ideas. 

Lim enthuses, “Getting someone to represent your brand is easy. But how to effectively use him, you use him to grow the business and touch the hearts of the people. For us, there is equal importance to these two. Robin touches the heart of each and every Filipino outside this country. This is how business should be about.”

“Yung samin, gusto na lang naming iparamdam sa mga OFWs na andito ako para paligayahin kayo. Kahit isa, dalawang oras. Hindi mo na mabibili yun. (For us, we just want to make OFWs feel that I am here to make you happy even if it’s just for an hour or two. There is no price to that happiness.),” says the actor. 

“Ang pagsabi ng bayani, hindi sa salita yan kundi sa gawa. Ang mapangiti mo ang mga taong ito, ito na yung pinakasimpleng pwede nating gawin para pasalamatan sila. (You shouldn’t only call them heroes, you should act on it. Making these people smile is the least we can do to thank them.),” he closes.

Endorsements from top caliber celebrities are indeed, one of the great tools that companies nowadays employ to find that "hook" among its consumers. MoneyGram, with its dealings with Robin Padilla, was able to strike that goldmine of connecting with its market. However, what simply sets them apart is the genuine love and compassion of their endorser, to the strong mass of OFWs across the globe that the company serves. A truly unique, and a heartwarming relationship between MoneyGram and its endorser. Aptly put, quoting Alex Lim and Robin on what sets them apart, "being with MoneyGram, you look beyond business. For us, it's all about service, na "Galing Sa Puso" (service from the heart). 

* MoneyGram and its agent will not apply any processing fee or any other fee to the recipients of money transfer service in the Philippines. However other fees may be charged to a recipient by a competent local authority in the Philippines.

MoneyGram and the Globe are marks of MoneyGram. ©2016 MoneyGram.