Security Bank Recognized for Digital Innovation and Project Finance at the Asian Banking and Finance Awards 2026

Makati City, Philippines — Security Bank Corporation and Security Bank Capital Investment Corporation (Security Bank Capital) earned three recognitions at the Asian Banking & Finance Awards 2026, affirming their continued progress in digital innovation, client-centric solutions, and sustainable finance. 

Security Bank’s Retail Banking Segment (RBS) won Mobile Banking & Payment Initiative of the Year – Philippines, while its Wholesale Banking Segment (WBS) won Domestic Digital Transformation Bank of the Year. Security Bank Capital also received Syndicated Loan of the Year – Philippines for the PHP150 billion senior term loan for Terra Solar Philippines, Inc. 

The recognitions reflect Security Bank’s BetterBanking strategy: making banking more accessible for individuals, helping businesses operate more efficiently, and supporting landmark projects that contribute to sustainable national development. 

Making digital banking simpler and more accessible 

Security Bank’s award-winning mobile banking initiative transforms the customer onboarding and banking experience through a seamless digital journey. 

The Bank's mobile app enables real-time account opening through secure electronic know-your-customer (eKYC), allowing customers to complete onboarding digitally using biometric verification and instant identity validation. Since its launch, the capability has enabled more than 23,000 new-to-bank customers to open accounts digitally, expanding access to formal financial services and supporting greater financial inclusion. 

Existing customers can also instantly open additional accounts and conveniently access digital credit solutions, including installment conversion, balance transfers, and credit-to-cash facilities, all within the app. 

"Digital innovation only matters if it makes banking easier for customers," said Myla Untalan, SVP and Strategic Projects Head. "We're continuously improving our digital platforms to help customers bank more conveniently, securely, and confidently wherever they are." 

Helping businesses bank more efficiently 

Security Bank continues to advance digital transformation for corporate clients by embedding banking services directly into their business operations. 

Its QRPay via API capability allows organizations to integrate QR payment generation, processing, and reporting directly into their internal systems, reducing manual work and improving operational efficiency. 

The solution has seen strong client adoption, with transaction count increasing by 284% and transaction volume growing by 187% from 2024 to 2025. 

By moving from portal-based processes to API integration, businesses can automate payment workflows, improve efficiency, and scale their digital payment capabilities across various platforms and industries. 

"Businesses increasingly expect banking to integrate seamlessly into their operations," said Jones Diokno, SVP and Deposits Business Group Head. "Through API-enabled solutions, we're helping clients automate processes, improve efficiency, and support their own digital transformation journeys." 

Financing projects that power the country's future 

Security Bank Capital’s recognition for Syndicated Loan of the Year underscores its expertise in structuring complex financing solutions for transformational infrastructure projects. 

The award-winning transaction involved a PHP150 billion, 15-year senior term loan facility for Terra Solar Philippines, Inc., supporting the development of the world's largest integrated solar and battery storage project as of 2025.  

Among the country's largest project finance transactions, the deal supports the Philippines' energy transition while introducing financing features that make long-term infrastructure funding more flexible, creating a benchmark for similar projects in emerging markets. 

"This transaction reflects our ability to structure innovative financing solutions for landmark infrastructure projects," said Virgilio Chua, President and CEO of Security Bank Capital. "We're proud to help mobilize capital for projects that support national development while delivering value for our clients and partners." 

“At Security Bank, collaboration is at the heart of how we serve our clients,” said Yvonne Marcelo, EVP and Corporate Banking Head of Security Bank. “Together with Security Bank Capital, we combined our strengths to help bring this landmark project to life, demonstrating how integrated expertise can create meaningful outcomes for our clients and the communities they serve.”

These recognitions reinforce Security Bank Group's commitment to BetterBanking by combining digital innovation, financing expertise, and strong partnerships to create meaningful outcomes for customers, businesses, and communities.

GStocks PH Democratizes Investing as Cebu Energy Firm's Shares Get 10x Demand

Broadening access to investment opportunities for everyday investors, GStocks PH continues to make it easier for Filipinos to invest in share issuances like Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) and Follow-On Offerings (FOOs) all within the GCash app. During the latest preferred share sale by fuel distributor Top Line Business Development Corp. (PSE: TOP), Filipino investors took up nearly ₱15M worth of shares on GStocks PH offered by broker AB Capital Securities, Inc.

 

Engaged in commercial fuel trading, retail fuel distribution, and real estate development, TOP is a Cebu-based energy and property development firm operating primarily in Central Visayas. In its FOO last June 26, it offered two preferred shares—TOPA1 and TOPA2—with fixed annual dividend rates of 9.1325% and 9.5981%, respectively. Both securities offer quarterly dividend payouts and were made available on GStocks PH with a minimum investment of ₱1,000.

Traditionally, FOO subscriptions required investors to apply through a brokerage, purchase non-guaranteed shares, and wait until after the offer period to know whether their orders were successful. GStocks PH addresses these challenges by offering a quick, digital signup on the platform and a simplified subscription experience that takes just minutes. GStocks PH allows users to easily order guaranteed shares during IPOs and FOOs while the broker’s allocation lasts; and once the guaranteed allocation for GCash is fully subscribed, GStocks users can just as easily subscribe to additional non-guaranteed shares, with confirmation provided after the offer period. 

The TOP FOO received strong support from Filipinos, with nearly 150,000 shares subscribed across both securities, more than 1000% oversubscribed compared to the broker’s initial guaranteed allocation for GStocks PH. The strong demand reflects growing investor interest in accessible investment opportunities made possible through a simplified subscription experience.

“Enabling Filipinos to make more informed decisions and giving them the tools they need to easily invest means creating opportunities for them to grow their hard earned money and build their long-term financial stability. Through GStocks PH, we continue to simplify the investment journey so more users can safely and conveniently participate in the Philippine stock market with just a few taps,” said Winsley Bangit, Group Head of New Businesses at Mynt, the parent company of GCash.

GStocks PH allows Filipinos to build their long-term financial health by seamlessly investing in local stocks and participating in share sales, including IPOs and FOOs, directly within the GCash app. Registering on GStocks PH takes just a few taps. To begin stock investing, fully-verified GCash users just need to open the app, go to the “Invest” tab and select “GStocks PH” to sign up and complete the digital KYC. 

By simplifying access to investment opportunities, GCash continues to support more Filipinos in pursuing their financial goals through convenient digital experiences.

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

Kasama Mo Mangarap: New GCash Stories Film Celebrates Second Chances with Atty. Sheila Gomez’s Journey to the Bar

Not every dream unfolds exactly as planned, and the journey toward making it a reality isn't always a straight path. Sometimes it calls for unwavering perseverance. Other times, it means finding the courage to take a second chance. And often, true progress comes from knowing when to ask for help so you can keep moving forward.

It's this spirit of courage and perseverance that takes center stage in the sixth installment of this year’s #GCashStories, the flagship campaign from the country’s No. 1 Finance Super App and Largest Cashless Ecosystem. Themed “Kasama Mo Mangarap,” this latest chapter reveals the deeply inspiring real-life journey of Atty. Sheila Gomez—a former legal aide whose lifelong dream of becoming an attorney was realized through sheer determination and responsible financial choices, with the timely support of GLoan.

“Our GCash Stories campaign showed us that the most powerful script is that of real life,” said Neil Trinidad, Chief Marketing Officer of Mynt. “Progress becomes possible when people are given the right support at the right time. At GCash, we believe our role goes far beyond providing financial tools—we want to empower Filipinos to keep moving forward. Every Filipino deserves to dream and deserves a second chance in pursuing just that. We take immense pride in Sheila’s journey because it is living proof that digital financial inclusion doesn't just solve a temporary problem; it turns everyday obstacles into real, lasting possibilities - dreams achieved.”

More Than Just a Story: The #GCashStories Movement

GCash Stories is a celebration of real Filipinos whose journeys remind us that progress is often built through everyday acts of courage, determination, and hope. Over the last three years, the campaign has evolved into a nationwide movement that transcends storytelling, capturing a rich collection of lived experiences that reflect the aspirations, challenges, and triumphs of underserved communities across the country and their individual stories of progress with the help of GCash.

By welcoming Atty. Sheila into this portfolio, GCash continues to spark vital conversations about financial inclusion. Her story adds to a powerful legacy of real-life breakthroughs previously featured by the brand:

Cocoy, a laid-off bartender who turned into a successful business owner with the help of GLoan.

Alma, a well-loved university employee who lost her home to Typhoon Ulysses but rebuilt it through community crowdfunding via GCash Send Money.

Turing, a drag queen and breadwinner who sustained her family during the pandemic by digital tipping via GCash QR.

Adz, a champion para-athlete who raised funds via GCash Send Money to advocate for the new generation of para-athletes.

Rhea Inayan, Ang Bayani ng Barangay from Bacolod City, who empowered a community through her GCash Pera Outlet, bringing essential financial services directly to her neighborhood

“At the heart of every GCash Story is a real story of financial progress,” said Lourdes Batac, GCash Head for Communication Strategy. "At the end of the day, GCash’s own narrative is not just about the products we’ve made, but how our products have transformed the lives of everyday Filipinos. We owe it to Cocoy, Ate Alma, Turing, Adz, Rhea, and Sheila for allowing GCash to share their story so that more Filipinos today can clearly imagine their own financial progress journey.”

Meet Atty. Sheila Gomez: From Dreamer to Lawyer

For Atty. Sheila Gomez, becoming a lawyer was a dream built on years of sacrifice. While working full-time as a legal aide, she tirelessly juggled the demands of her day job with the rigorous, exhausting requirements of law school, balancing long days at work with late nights of studying.

However, as law school expenses began to pile up alongside everyday living costs, Sheila faced an overwhelming reality familiar to millions of working Filipinos: the heavy weight of financial anxiety. Every enrollment and exam season brought a persistent fear of falling short. Rather than putting her life's calling on hold, she made the decision to turn to GLoan as her silent, reliable personal partner.

The loan provided her with the immediate financial flexibility to cover her law school expenses, allowing her to stay completely focused on her goals without compromising her self-worth or hiding in shame. Armed with this support, she successfully passed the Bar. Today, she continues her journey of financial progress as an active user of GCredit and GGives, proudly declaring, "Ako si Sheila, at ito ang aking GCash Story."

“One of the biggest lessons I learned is that perseverance doesn't always mean doing everything on your own. Sometimes, it means having the courage to seek the right support,” Atty. Sheila Gomez shared during a fireside chat. “It's unfortunate that many Filipinos see loans in a negative light, but when used responsibly and with a clear purpose, borrowing can be a powerful tool and a smart investment that moves you closer to your dreams. I'm grateful that GLoan gave me that opportunity.”

Fuse and GCash: Championing Fair and Respectful Lending

Atty. Sheila’s story highlights a critical reality in today’s economic landscape. Amidst inflation and a challenging local economy, many Filipinos still face predatory lenders or rigid, traditional systems that leave them feeling trapped rather than helped.

Celebrating its 10th year, Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash, steps in to actively destigmatize the lending category, championing fair, transparent, and respectful financial practices. Proving that responsible lending should empower the borrower, protect their dignity, and provide a clear path forward, not a cycle of debt. 

“Since our inception, we have pursued our mission: 'Fair loans that spark better every day for all Filipinos,'” said Tony Isidro, President and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc. “Everything we do rests on three core commitments: to provide fast, collateral-free loans; to ensure a safe and secure credit experience; and most importantly, to enable Filipinos to borrow with dignity. When paired with discipline and perseverance, responsible borrowing becomes a stepping stone to lasting financial progress.”

Enabling Every Filipino's Journey Toward a Better Future

While Sheila's triumph takes center stage, hers represents the millions of borrowers who turn to GLoan to continue their education, scale their livelihoods, support their families, and overcome unexpected challenges.

Through these collective experiences, GCash lives out its ultimate vision of Finance for All. By meeting Filipinos exactly where they are, GCash reinforces the universal truth that every individual has the right to dream and achieve those dreams, no matter their socioeconomic situation.

For more information on GLoan and to watch Atty. Sheila’s full GCash Story, visit https://youtu.be/CHrVTlAhmRI.

Inspired by Atty. Sheila and ready to move forward? Access GLoan through the GCash dashboard or find it under “Borrow.” Download the GCash app on the App Store or Google Play now and jumpstart your dreams. Kaya Mo. I-GCash mo.

GCash Brings Opportunities, Innovation and Financial Empowerment for the Next Wave of Filipino Freelancers at the First Regional Community Connect in Pampanga

At a time of rising costs and economic uncertainty, freelancing has emerged as a growing source of opportunity. As more Filipinos turn to freelancing as a viable long-term career, many are adopting digital tools like the GCash Virtual US Account to simplify cross-border payments.

 

Recognizing this, the GCash Freelancer Connect, a series of community events designed to bring freelancers based in different cities in the country, made its way to Pampanga for its first regional leg. Attendees gathered to learn from speakers KD Creatives and Dani Jacobe, who led practical sessions on how to diversify income streams, charge more competitive prices, and build greater financial confidence with the support of tools like GCash. Here are key insights shared during the event:

 

Strong relationships create steady opportunities 

 

With more Filipinos entering the freelancing industry, standing out has become a bigger challenge. For Dani Jacobe, building meaningful connections – and knowing how to communicate value clearly – makes all the difference.

 

“Your goal is not just to find one client. Your goal is to build a system that helps you keep finding and serving clients,” she shared. 

 

What she has learned over the years is that outreach should go beyond simply introducing one’s services. Freelancers should learn to identify problems, offer clear solutions, and create opportunities for intentional conversations from the very beginning.

 

“Your skill becomes more valuable when you connect it to a specific business need,” she added.

 

Be confident in your worth

 

For Kyla Dizon, the journey to becoming “KD Creatives” didn’t happen overnight. Before building her online community around content creation and offering digital guides and advice through her platform, she experienced self-doubt and pressure as a young freelancer. One area where that hit hard was in communicating her value to potential clients. 

 

“The truth is, a lot of freelancers are incredibly talented, but still undercharge because they haven’t fully recognized the value of what they bring to the table,” she explained. 

 

The turning point came when she stopped pricing from a place of fear or being scared that clients would walk away because she’d be too expensive and instead, began pricing from a place of confidence. But that confidence, Kyla noted, came only once she fully embraced her personal brand as a freelancer. 

 

“Now, I approach pricing differently — not based on fear, but on the value and experience I know I can deliver,” she explained. During the Freelancer Connect, she urged attendees to use a pricing matrix, which she has made available online, to accurately determine how much they should charge clients for the services they offer.

 

Receiving payments should not feel complicated 

 

Another common challenge freelancers face is receiving payments, especially from overseas clients, where the process is often inefficient. To address this, GCash has introduced the Virtual US Account, a feature designed to make receiving USD payments easier.

 

Users can now receive USD transfers directly from US-based clients using their own routing and account numbers, similar to a traditional US bank, within the GCash app. This feature helps freelancers avoid unnecessary deductions, hidden fees, and lengthy transfer processes, while also ensuring competitive forex rates. Users can convert their USD to PHP when it is most favorable for them – they have full control of when they want to withdraw it into their GCash e-wallet. 

 

“We want to ensure that freelancers in the Philippines can receive and manage their money in the most convenient way possible and in a manner that ensures they don’t lose so much of their hard-earned cash. Once in your Virtual US Account, you can access and manage your earnings instantly inside the GCash app – whether that’s converting to PHP, paying bills, buying load, or even growing your wealth through our financial services,” shared Sophia Sison, Product Manager under the International Business Group at GCash.

 

Create your Virtual US Account today 

 

As freelancing continues to grow across the country, GCash hopes initiatives like the Freelancer Connect can help create more spaces where freelancers feel supported — not just financially, but as a community navigating a rapidly changing world of work together.

 

Creating your Virtual US Account is easy:

 

1.     Open the GCash app - Tap US Accounts in the Explore the App section 

2.     Tap Continue and verify your information 

3.     Complete your account creation

GCash Rolls Out in-app OTPs via Push Notifications to Combat Phishing Scams, Fraud this June 2026

GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app and largest cashless ecosystem, is set to roll out its In-App One-Time Passwords (OTPs) feature by June 22, replacing SMS-based authentication as part of its strengthened cybersecurity measures against phishing scams and financial fraud. As GCash transitions to In-App OTPs, users are encouraged to ensure that push notifications are enabled to avoid any disruption on transactions and account activities.

 

With this latest security enhancement, users now receive their OTPs through secure push notifications directly within the app, providing a safer and more seamless verification experience. 

 

This move by the country’s leading finance super app complies with the directive of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to phase out SMS-based OTPs by June 30, 2026. The measure aligns with the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA), which aims to strengthen cybersecurity safeguards and curb the growing incidence of digital fraud.

 

For years, SMS-based OTPs have been targeted by scammers as a means of accessing user accounts. The switch to In-App OTPs is an important step toward addressing these vulnerabilities. By sending OTP requests directly to the user’s authenticated GCash app, GCash ensures that only the intended users can receive and use the unique OTPs, protecting them from unauthorized access. 

 

Instant, one-tap authentication also removes the need to switch apps, type codes, or wait for text messages to arrive, resulting in faster transactions and removing exposure to SMS OTPs that scammers and fraudsters can exploit.

 

“Our upgrade to In-App OTPs is a strategic move to put an end to phishable SMS OTPs. We will shift users to instant, GCash app-verified authentication, to increase the security of their daily transactions,” said Miguel Geronilla, Chief Information Security Officer of GCash.

 

The introduction of In-App OTPs is part of the broader strategy of GCash to enhance security through Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), a well-established industry standard that adds multiple layers of protection when accessing an account. MFA greatly reduces the risk of account takeovers, even if passwords or MPINs are compromised.

 

GCash has consistently invested in stronger protection systems, including Know-Your-Customer (KYC) verification and Facial Recognition verification (Double Safe). In-App OTPs build on these existing measures, enhancing security without adding unnecessary friction to the user experience.

 

As digital scams continue to evolve, GCash remains committed to proactively enhancing platform security and setting higher standards for safe and secure digital finance in the Philippines. 

For more information, visit www.gcash.com.

Cross-Border Transactions: Unified Merchant Database to Accelerate MSME Digital Adoption, Strengthen ASEAN Economic Growth

A unified merchant database and verifiable identity are key to helping Filipino MSMEs adopt digital platforms and grow in the digital economy, Oscar Enrico Reyes Jr., president and CEO of G-Xchange Inc., the mobile wallet operator of GCash, said in a panel discussion during the ASEAN Business Environment Forum.

 

Closing the digital gap would enable Filipino entrepreneurs to engage in cross-border transactions and access the ASEAN market. This means they can sell products and services to a wider audience, connect with regional partners, and participate in the regional supply chain.

 

As such, Filipino enterprises can better compete regionally and tap into new growth opportunities, beefing up their revenue streams in the long run.

 

However, many MSMEs find it challenging to join the digital space because of fragmented ecosystems for identification, preventing them from fully realizing their business venture's potential.

 

"In fact, it's so cumbersome to onboard a merchant. It can take months because of the back and forth on documents just to verify their identity," Reyes explained, noting that merchants deal with multiple permits from local government units and agencies.

"If it's all in one repository, then you just need to pick that particular repository, and then it makes it so much simpler," he added.

 

With an official GCash account for merchants, MSMEs can accept digital payments, manage transactions more efficiently, and grow their business through a bigger customer base.

 

Strengthening regional cooperation

Reyes was joined by leaders from different companies, including Chin Yin Ong, Chief Organisational Capability Officer, Grab; Arifah Sharifuddin, Institute Director, Tech for Good Institute (TFGI); and Nabila Hussain, Director of Government Affairs, Southeast Asia, Microsoft ASEAN.

 

The panelists highlighted the importance of strong cooperation between governments and the private sector, especially in advancing digitalization efforts. Such collaboration can help develop infrastructure, create supportive regulations, and provide training and resources for businesses to adopt digital tools.

 

This is aligned with the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, which aims to create a more integrated and seamless digital economy in the region by aligning rules, improving cross-border data flows, and supporting digital trade.

 

The industry leaders also stressed that practical, results-driven partnerships can better support enterprises and improve the overall business environment in the region. These efforts, they noted, help create a more stable and business-friendly ecosystem that benefits companies across ASEAN.

 

Prioritizing trust and security

Apart from providing access, however, Reyes stressed that merchants must also feel safe navigating the digital platforms.

 

“It starts with trust. There has to be trust in the whole ecosystem,” he explained.

This is where cybersecurity measures come in. For GCash, protecting users’ accounts and transactions means using multiple layers of security.

 

The platform employs advanced encryption to keep data safe and multi-factor authentication to verify user identities. Real-time fraud detection and continuous monitoring help catch suspicious activity and prevent unauthorized access.

 

Together, these measures ensure that every payment, transfer, and investment is safe, secure, and reliable.

GCash Accepts Government-Issued Foreign IDs to Simplify App Verification for OFWs in the Middle East

To expedite access to essential digital financial services for Filipinos abroad, GCash now supports the use of foreign-issued IDs: Emirates ID (UAE), Iqama ID (Saudi Arabia), Kuwait Civil ID, and Qatar Residency Permit for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the Middle East for account verification. This enhancement helps streamline the onboarding process, allowing eligible users to complete verification more efficiently and access services faster, subject to standard security and eligibility checks.

 

Previously, applicants were required to submit additional documents to help establish ties to the Philippines, often involving manual email exchanges and extended processing times. For OFWs managing demanding work schedules, limited connectivity, and time constraints, these additional steps frequently delayed full account activation and limited timely access to essential financial services, with verification requirements varying by individual circumstances.

 

With the updated flow, verification is fully completed within the GCash app from registration to ID upload and submission, with approvals processed within 48 hours.

 

Accepted IDs include the Emirates ID (UAE), Iqama ID (Saudi Arabia), Kuwait Civil ID, and Qatar Residency Permit. Once verified, users gain full access to core services such as Send Money, Bank Transfer, and Pay Bills, enabling more seamless financial management and faster remittance support for families in the Philippines.

 

The initiative is focused on newly registered users in the Middle East, particularly those within their first seven days of sign-up. It will run up to July 11, 2026, with previously submitted applications under the old process eligible for resubmission to benefit from faster processing.

 

Given the scale of Filipino migration in the Gulf region and the critical role of remittances in household and national economic support, the update strengthens access to essential financial tools where they are needed most. By reducing onboarding barriers, GCash enables more OFWs to manage money digitally, send support home more efficiently, and participate more fully in the digital financial ecosystem.

 

These enhancements reflect the commitment of GCash in helping address real-world conditions abroad, making financial services more accessible, responsive, and immediately usable for Filipinos wherever they are.

 

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

GCash Cracks Down on Online Task Scammers, Intensifies Anti-Fraud Campaign

GCash is intensifying its efforts against task scams and other forms of social engineering fraud as digital scam syndicates become increasingly sophisticated across the country.

 

Task scams often involve fraudsters posing as recruiters, merchants, or online platforms that promise easy earnings in exchange for completing simple online tasks. Victims are later manipulated into transferring funds under the false promise of higher commissions or withdrawals.

 

To help you stay safe, remember:

·       Mind the "Unsolicited" Invite: Professional recruiters typically use official platforms. Be cautious of job offers that arrive unexpectedly via email, SMS, or cold call offers.

·       Credentials Matter: Authentic employers are interested in your skills and will usually ask for a CV or a brief interview. If an offer requires "no experience" and "no resume," it’s best to verify the source.

·       Your Money Should Stay with You: Legitimate jobs pay you for your work. A major red flag is when you are asked to "top up" or “upfront payments” or make a deposit to unlock higher-tier tasks or "premium" commissions.

·       Simple Withdrawal Access: You should be able to access your earnings without hurdles. Be wary of platforms that force you to complete a specific "set" or "cycle" of tasks before allowing you to withdraw your funds.

·       Official Communication Only: Look for emails from company domains (e.g., @companyname.com). Official business is rarely conducted through generic @gmail.com or @yahoo.com addresses.

·       Keep Your Account Private: Your MPIN and One-Time Password (OTP) are your digital keys. GCash will never ask for these via call, SMS, email, or social media.

·       Your GCash account is for your personal use only: Do not let others use your GCash account for any transaction, and do not use the GCash account of other people as well.

·       Trust Your Instincts: If an offer promises unusually high pay for very little effort, it is often a sign to take a step back and investigate further.

 

GCash continues to strengthen its scam and fraud prevention efforts

·       Fraud Monitoring Systems & Proactive Wallet Blocking: Since 2025 to date, GCash reported closing over 3.3 million scam-linked wallets. When a user reports a scam, the receiving wallet is often part of a larger network that GCash can identify and shut down.

·       Coordination and Partnerships with Law Enforcement: GCash continues to work closely with the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and other regulators to strengthen our ecosystem.

 

If you encounter a suspicious task offer or transaction, reporting it helps protect the whole community. You can reach out through these official channels:

 

GCash Official Support:

·       In-App Help Center: Call via 2882 (toll free) or submit a ticket in-app Help Center or chat with Gigi 24/7 for immediate assistance.

Government Cybercrime Support Channels:

·       PNP-ACG Hotline: (02) 8723 0401 (loc 7491) | 0968 867 4302

·       PNP-ACG Email: messagecenter.acg@pnp.gov.ph

·       CICC Hotline: 1326

·       NBI Cybercrime Division: ccd@nbi.gov.ph

 

We recognize the distress caused by online scams and continue to improve customer protection measures and response protocols amid the rapidly evolving threat landscape.

 

Together, through vigilance, awareness, and ecosystem-wide cooperation, we can help combat online fraud and protect the digital financial community.

Thinking of Going Home This Summer? Here’s How to Make It More Manageable

There’s something about summer that naturally makes you think of home. It’s in the longer days, the school breaks, the fiestas, and those familiar moments that feel best shared with family.

But let’s be honest, traveling home to the province isn’t as easy as it used to be. Rising costs and day-to-day expenses have turned what was once a simple “Uwi ako this weekend” into something that needs a bit more planning.

The good news is that going home is still possible. With the right preparation and a little help when you need it, those summer plans don’t have to stay as “sana.” They can turn into something you can actually look forward to. Because at the end of the day, going home isn’t about spending big. It’s about being there.

Making Essential Trips More Manageable

Start with a clear, realistic budget

Planning your trip early can make a big difference. List down your expected expenses, from transportation and meals to small extras, so you know exactly what to prepare for. If you're flying back home to visit the family, you don’t have to shoulder the ticket cost all at once. GGives lets you book your flights now and pay in lighter, split payments, so you can manage the cost more comfortably over time.

Prepare for unexpected gastos

Even simple trips home can come with surprise costs like extra rides or pasalubong. Whether you’re heading home via bus or taking a ferry to the province, you can stay flexible by using GCredit to book your tickets via QR. You can travel now and pay later, with a limit of up to 50K. If you’re driving, you can also use GCredit via GBills to top up your RFID on the go, for an uninterrupted road trip.

Space out your expenses when you can

Booking early, watching for seat sales, or planning ahead can help spread costs over time. And when timing matters, especially during peak travel seasons, GLoan offers instant cash access to give you the flexibility you need. Easily manage fares across different modes of transport as needed, and keep your journey moving without the stress.

Focus on what truly matters

A meaningful trip home doesn’t have to be elaborate. Sometimes, it’s the simplest moments, like sharing meals, catching up, or just being present, that make it worthwhile. With the right support to help manage costs, you can focus less on the stress and more on the time spent together.

A Little Help Goes a Long Way

Sometimes, all it takes is the right kind of support to turn plans into reality, especially during summer when being home feels even more important.

GLoan – Instant Cash for Your Travel: For moments that can’t wait, whether it’s a family gathering, a special occasion, or a much-needed visit, GLoan helps you secure your trip with quick access to funds.

GCredit – Pay Later for Everyday Travel Expenses: From terminal fares to food along the way, GCredit lets you cover essential travel expenses instantly and pay later, helping reduce hassle when your GCash balance is running low.

GGives – Split Payments for Heavier Travel Expenses: For bigger commitments like airfare, hotels, or planned trips, GGives lets you break payments into more manageable installments, helping you plan ahead without the pressure of paying everything upfront.

This summer, going home can still be something to look forward to. With a bit of planning and the right support, it becomes less about “Kung kaya ba?” and more about “Kailan ako uuwi?” Because sometimes, the journey home to the province is exactly what you need, and now it’s closer within reach.

So if it’s been on your mind, take it as a sign. Baka kaya na. Baka pwede na. And this time, going home can feel a little more within reach.

ACEN, GCash, and Ilocos Norte LGU Launch First Province-led Solar Rooftop Campaign for Households

The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN), in partnership with ACEN and GCash of the Ayala group, has launched the Ilocos Norte Solar Rooftop Campaign, the first local government-led initiative in the Philippines to enable households to access clean energy through solar rooftops and net metering under affordable and accessible terms.

The campaign brings together the government, financing partner, renewable energy providers, and key enablers—including Solaric Philippines and the Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative (INEC)—to deliver an integrated model that makes solar power practical for everyday households.

At a time when energy affordability and security are becoming increasingly urgent, the initiative provides Ilocano families with a viable pathway to reduce electricity costs while contributing to the country’s clean energy transition.

 

“This initiative reflects how strong collaboration between the public and private sectors can bring the benefits of renewable energy directly to communities,” said Eric Francia, ACEN CEO. “By combining solar technology, accessible financing, and local engagement, we are making clean energy more inclusive and within reach of Filipino households.”

Building on Ilocos Norte’s legacy as a pioneer in renewable energy—home to some of the country’s earliest wind and solar developments—the campaign shifts the focus from utility-scale projects to household-level adoption.

Through the program, participating households can install solar rooftop systems with flexible financing options, without the need for traditional bank collateral. Financing is made accessible through Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash, offering convenient digital application and payment terms via its installment feature, GGives, with terms ranging from 3 to 10 years for as low as ₱1,300 only per month.

Households will also benefit from net metering, enabled through INEC, allowing excess electricity generated from their solar systems to be exported to the grid in exchange for bill credits—helping further reduce monthly electricity expenses. Solaric Philippines will support the supply and installation of solar rooftop systems for participating households.

"This initiative reaffirms Ilocos Norte’s status as the renewable energy capital of the Philippines. Now is the time that we lessen our energy dependence on fossil fuel," said Gov. Cecilia Araneta-Marcos.

"We’re proud to introduce this as the first-of-its-kind project in the entire Philippines, where we have all these parties come together to spread the benefits of solar energy for everyone. This is just the start of a great and impactful project, and one that we will continue to work on and make sure that we're able to scale up for the benefit of all in our province,” said Vice Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc.

Key features of the campaign include:

·        Accessible, low-barrier financing options for households

·        Flexible payment structures via GGives, the installment payment feature of GCash, aligned with household needs

·        Meaningful reduction in electricity costs through solar and net metering

·        Efficient and streamlined installation process

“What makes this framework meaningful is that the financing is designed to be accessible for all. It offers a competitive rate, has a simple online application process, and no lengthy documentary requirements needed, and more importantly, it opens opportunities even for households that may not have access to traditional financing or credit cards. This is how we’re expanding access to green financing and making the shift to clean energy more inclusive,” said Tony Isidro, President and CEO of Fuse Financing.

The campaign will initially prioritize households with average consumption of 4 kWh per day and above, where solar installations can deliver the most meaningful savings.

 

The Ilocos Norte Solar Rooftop Campaign demonstrates a scalable model for accelerating residential renewable energy adoption through coordinated action.

The initial rollout will cover pilot areas including Laoag City, Dingras, and Pagudpud, with limited slots available to participating households.

Beyond lowering electricity bills, the campaign supports broader sustainability goals by reducing reliance on conventional energy sources and enabling households to generate clean power directly from their rooftops.

The initiative also reinforces Ilocos Norte’s position as a leader in renewable energy—demonstrating how clean energy can move beyond large-scale projects and become part of everyday life.

The campaign was formally launched with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) among key partners at the Ilocos Norte Provincial Capitol, marking the start of the campaign’s awareness and enrollment phase.