GCash Urges Vigilance Against Online Scams and Fraud this Holy Week

The country’s leading finance app and largest cashless ecosystem, GCash, is reminding users to stay vigilant and take simple yet meaningful steps to protect themselves from scams and fraud this Holy Week.

As more users go online, GCash encourages everyone to remain vigilant—particularly against scams that take advantage of vulnerable users, as well as government subsidy payouts, such as the fuel subsidy program of LTFRB and the DSWD.

GCash shares simple steps to help users stay #GSafeTayo:

1.     Be aware of fake fuel vouchers from “DSWD” or any government agency

Scammers exploit any crisis with spoofing and phishing scams. For instance, users may receive text messages that appear to come from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), asking them to claim an "e-fuel voucher" by clicking a link that leads to a phishing website. The DSWD has confirmed these are scams. They will never distribute assistance through unsolicited texts containing clickable links.

 

2.               Watch out for spoofed messages and suspicious links

Never click links sent via SMS or third-party messaging apps. Scams can arrive via SMS, email, or chat apps. Be wary of "phishing" traps, such as "free" offers.

3.               Avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks

Increasingly sophisticated tactics are compromising even the most vigilant users. Malicious hotspots in high-traffic areas like airports can silently intercept sensitive data; therefore, refrain from accessing financial accounts or entering credentials while on public connections.

4.               Be alert against fake pages and impersonators

Some spoofing attempts come from fake GCash Facebook pages or Messenger accounts designed to look real. Check for the verified blue checkmark and report suspicious accounts. The only official page is GCash Official.

 

Follow additional safety practices

 

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

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

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

 

Report suspicious activity and stay informed

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

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

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

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

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

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

GCash reminds the public that online safety remains a shared responsibility. Enjoy the break, and stay alert to have a peaceful and a #GSafeTayo Holy Week.

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Prudence Foundation and UNICEF Philippines Partner to Protect Children from Climate-Related Health Risks

Taguig City, Philippines,  31 March 2026 – Prudence Foundation, the community investment arm of Prudential plc, and UNICEF Philippines have launched a new partnership to help protect children and communities in the Philippines from the growing health impacts of climate change.

Through the REACH programme, the collaboration aims to strengthen health and social protection systems so they can better respond to climate-related risks such as extreme heat and air pollution that disproportionately affect children.

REACH, which stands for Resilience, Environment, and Child Health – Strengthening Health and Social Protection Systems in the Philippines, will support efforts to develop climate-adaptive primary health care systems, strengthen preparedness and response to heat stress and air pollution, and enhance shock-responsive social protection mechanisms for vulnerable families.

The programme will be implemented by UNICEF Philippines in partnership with the Department of Health, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Climate Change Commission, and local government units in Metro Manila and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

With support from Prudence Foundation, the community investment arm of Prudential plc, and Pru Life UK, the programme highlights the importance of strengthening resilience for children and communities faced with increasing frequency and intensity of climate risks.

“As the community investment arm of Prudential plc, Prudence Foundation focuses on building climate and health resilience through long‑term, collaborative solutions. Our partnership with UNICEF Philippines under the REACH programme reflects this commitment, supporting stronger health and social protection systems to better protect children from climate‑related health risks,” said Nicole Ngeow, Executive Director of Prudence Foundation.

Sanjay Chakrabarty, President and Chief Executive Officer of Pru Life UK, said:

“Climate change is increasingly affecting the health and wellbeing of children and communities across the Philippines. Through the REACH programme, we are supporting efforts to strengthen systems that protect children from climate-related health risks such as extreme heat and air pollution. By working with UNICEF and government partners, we hope to help build stronger and more resilient health and social protection systems that can better safeguard children today, and in the future,” added Chakrabarty.

Kyungsun Kim, UNICEF Representative to the Philippines, highlighted the partnership’s significance in addressing the stakes for children:

 “For children whose bodies are still growing, climate change can quickly become a health emergency. Protecting them requires climate‑adaptive, shock‑responsive systems, and strong partnerships. Through REACH, our work with the Prudence Foundation shows how government, civil society, young people, and the private sector can deliver solutions where they matter most. UNICEF mobilises private sector partners as advocates for child rights and responsible business, helping build a more resilient future for every child in the Philippines.”

Children are particularly vulnerable to environmental and climate-related health risks due to their unique needs and reliance on healthcare systems, clean air, and safe environments. Strengthening these systems will help ensure that communities are better prepared to respond to climate-related shocks and protect children’s health and wellbeing.

Egg Hunts, Parades, and More: Easter Comes Alive at SM Supermalls

This Easter, SM Supermalls in Baliwag, Marilao, and Pulilan transform into a vibrant playground filled with egg hunts, parades, and colorful photo spots until April 5. Whether you’re bringing the kids or planning a fun day out, there’s something for everyone to enjoy to the max.

Expect a full lineup of activities, from interactive games and creative workshops to lively performances, delivering a memorable Easter experience for families and friends alike.

Strike your best pose at the Bunny Photo Corner

Snap photos at vibrant Easter setups filled with pastel colors, bunny props, and playful backdrops—perfect for capturing fun family moments and colorful Easter memories.

Walk proudly at the Easter Runway Costume Contest

Dress up in your most creative Easter outfits—bunny ears and all—and strut your stuff at the Easter Runway Show. Kids and families can join in for a chance to win fun prizes.

Hop into the Easter Eggventure Game

Go on a digital egg hunt around select SM Supermalls, where hidden QR-coded eggs unlock points and exciting rewards through the Play at SM website. Make sure to explore every corner for a truly exciting adventure—it’s a fun, high-tech twist on a classic Easter tradition.

Honor tradition with a meaningful Easter Blessing

For families who want to celebrate the deeper meaning of Easter, select malls will hold Easter Sunday Mass on April 5, offering a quiet moment to pause, reflect, and give thanks.

Whether you’re hunting for eggs, or enjoying a full day of activities, your most loved SM malls in Baliwag, Marilao, and Pulilan are the place to be this Easter. Don’t miss out—plan your visit and make it an Easter to remember.