E-wallet Use Jumps 75% in Sari-Sari Stores, Fueling Digital Transformation - Packworks Report

24 October 2025 Manila, Philippines — Sari-sari stores are rapidly digitalizing their operations, driven by a significant increase in e-wallet use, according to a new report from Filipino tech startup Packworks.

The report used their internal transaction records as the starting point to conduct a direct survey of more than 2,000 sari-sari store owners within Packworks' nationwide network of 300,000+ stores from January to August 2025.

According to the data, half of the store owners surveyed reported a 75% increase in e-wallet usage in their store operations between January and August. The remaining respondents also saw substantial growth: 20% experienced a 100% increase in usage, another 20% saw a 50% increase, and 10% reported a 10% rise.

Store owners largely attribute this growing adoption to increased consumer demand, as their customers are also turning to e-wallets to buy goods, access funds, and settle bills at their local stores. 

“Maraming nang nagpapa-cash-in at cash-out at bumibili gamit ang mga e-wallet. Dahil dumarami, gusto namin masabayan ang pangangailangan nila. Nakakatulong din naman ito sa amin para magkaroon kami ng dagdag kita,” (A lot of our customers are making cash-in and cash-out transactions aside from buying products with e-wallets. Since more customers are using them, we want to keep up with their needs. It also helps us earn a little extra), said Marijane Rea, a sari-sari store owner from Laguna.

Store owners are using e-wallets for a variety of business operations. About 40% use the platforms for in-store payments, 30% for bill payments, and the remaining 30% for cash-in and cash-out transactions.

This digital shift is quickly becoming a critical source of revenue. Around 13% of store owners say their e-wallet earnings equal their revenue from physical goods. Among the rest of the respondents, e-wallets still contribute significantly: 66% say that about 20% of their revenues come from e-wallet use, and the remaining 21% say their e-wallet earnings account for 10% of their total revenue.

GCash and Maya are the widely used e-wallets, with 85% of store owners reporting using GCash for their business transactions and 15% using Maya.

“Bukod sa kita namin sa tindahan, nagkaroon kami ng dagdag kita sa paggamit sa mga e-wallet kasi meron kaming tubo na PHP 10 hanggang PHP 20 sa pag-cash-in at cash-out, o di kaya tuwing nagbabayad ng kuryente, tubig, o internet ang mga customer,” (Besides the income we earn from the store, we also get extra earnings from using e-wallets because we earn a profit of PHP 10 to PHP 20 from cash-in and cash-out transactions, or whenever customers pay for electricity, water, or internet bills), said Rachel Miguel, a store owner from Bacolod. 

To increase their transaction capacity and meet surging customer demand, sari-sari stores are strategically using up to five e-wallet accounts. According to the report, with each account having a monthly limit of PHP 100,000 to PHP 500,000, the combined monthly transaction capacity is up to PHP 3.5 million.

This trend supports the 30% of store owners’ interest in upgrading their e-wallets to business accounts to maintain a higher monthly limit of PHP 1 million.

Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas indicated that approximately 57% of total retail transactions were cashless in 2024, highlighting the increasing use of digital payments for everyday purchases and financial transactions.

Packworks Chief Platform Officer Hubert Yap highlights that sari-sari stores are rapidly embracing digital tools such as e-wallets to diversify their services and grow their businesses.

“The surge in e-wallet use proves that sari-sari stores are rapidly evolving into vital digital hubs for their communities. Aside from simply selling 'tingi' physical items, they are now diversifying their product range, offering high-margin, value-added financial services and integrating digital tools such as our app to fundamentally improve their operations and function as near-frictionless nano-banks for the neighborhoods they serve. These findings show that sari-sari stores have been at the forefront leading this digital transformation at the grassroots level,” cited Yap, “And there's an urgent need to support these micro-entrepreneurs with the right fintech to ensure they can fully capitalize on this opportunity, as they often say in sari-stores, a peso saved is a peso earned!” 

For more studies and data trends insights in sari-sari stores, you may visit http://packworks.io/ or Packworks’ Facebook page to learn more.

Globe GoGIVE: Enabling Young Pinoys to Live Their Digital Life with Purpose

Daily social media scrolling, mobile gaming marathons, and endless video calls can now support social and environmental causes to create change that matters.

 

Globe Prepaid has made this a reality with GoGIVE, an innovative way for young Filipinos to make consistent and lasting impact by using their phones the way they already do. Subscribers automatically earn hearts while using their mobile data for any online activity. The hearts are used to support a diverse range of advocacies.

 

"We understand that today's youth want to make a difference, but they need solutions that work with their lifestyle, not against it. GoGIVE easily integrates into everyday life, allowing them to be changemakers through the technology they love,” said Givielle Florida, Head of Globe Prepaid.

 

Since its launch in March 2025, GoGIVE has already generated an impressive 2.7 billion “hearts” from more than 37,000 contributors, and the numbers continue to climb as more people participate in this digital movement of giving.

 

 Globe Prepaid is currently partnered with these advocacies:

 

●      Expanding Digital Literacy for Underserved Women (Project PEARLS)

●      Strengthening Support for Children In-need (World Vision Philippines)

●      Sustaining the Fight for Forest Conservation (Philippine Eagle Foundation)

●      Elevating Training and Research for Frontliners (PGH Medical Foundation, Inc.)

●      Continuing Compassion for More Animals (The Philippine Animal Welfare Society)

 

With the successful completion of PAWS initial goals, GoGIVE is now focusing on amplifying support for our other crucial advocacies such as Project PEARLS, World Vision Philippines, Philippine Eagle Foundation, and PGH Medical Foundation, Inc.

 

To join, Globe Prepaid customers can simply download the GlobeOne app, click the GoGIVE icon, and select their preferred advocacy.

 

GoGIVE represents Globe’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. It encourages everyone to ‘Go Forward Together,’ reminding them that even small actions online can result in a positive impact offline.

 

For more information about GoGIVE and how to live one’s digital life with purpose, download the GlobeOne app or visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

Globe Brings Learning, Music and Inspiration to Students in Cagayan Province

Cagayan province is home to over 3.66 million people, with youth aged 15 to 24 accounting for nearly one-fifth of its population. Internet use is widespread, with three out of four residents aged 10 and above already online. Yet, many continue to face barriers in accessing and maximizing digital tools in ways that are safe, responsible, and creative.

To help bridge these gaps, Globe launched a series of engagements that gathered more than 750 students across the region, providing lessons on digital citizenship, leadership, and creative expression.

Building on this effort, Globe organized a three-day program in partnership with three institutions. The sessions combined digital literacy modules, leadership workshops, and creative platforms designed to nurture future-ready communities in Cagayan province.

Investing in the Next Generation

Globe’s programs in Cagayan province reaffirm its commitment to prepare young Filipinos for the future by strengthening their digital skills, leadership abilities, and creative platforms for self-expression.

“As we saw in Cagayan province, young Filipinos are already shaping their own futures with technology, leadership, and creativity. At Globe, we see the youth not just as future leaders but as leaders of today. Our role is to stand beside them as they build a better tomorrow for their communities and the nation,” said Raymond Mancilla, Territory Business Head.

A Generation of Innovation, Leadership, and Community

In Cagayan, Globe’s Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) is empowering students to be not just digital natives but active changemakers. At Peñablanca National High School, 250 students joined DTP sessions on responsible digital citizenship. Instead of passively waiting to learn, they shared the advanced AI tools they already use in their studies, such as Nomunity, Study Talk, Perplexity, Blackbox AI, and Scholar.ai — proof of their openness to innovation and their ability to find new ways to learn.

At Cagayan State University, more than 350 student leaders gathered to explore how leadership can be rooted in everyday actions that shape their peers and communities. Through DTP and complementary workshops on inclusivity, responsibility, and student voice, participants were encouraged to see themselves as active drivers of change.

The program culminated in the TM Fun Music concert, which brought together over 2,500 students from the CSU Andrews and Carig campuses. Performances by Amiel Sol, student artists, and local talents transformed the event into a celebration of creativity and community spirit.

“We sincerely thank our partners at Globe for sharing their time, efforts, and resources with the students of Cagayan State University Andrews Campus. Through the Digital Thumbprint Program, we were reminded of the importance of using technology responsibly, while the concert gave us a chance to celebrate and come together as one community. These activities brought both learning and joy, leaving a lasting impact on us as more informed, connected, and inspired individuals,” said Kyle Aron Tan, CSU Student Regent and Andrews Campus Student Council President.

Beyond the Skills

For the 150 medical student leaders at the Medical Colleges of Northern Philippines, DTP offered more than lessons on digital responsibility. It became a reminder that in healthcare, leadership is not measured only by knowledge but also by empathy, ethics, and accountability. “The seminar was an eye-opening experience for all the student leaders, making them realize the importance of being responsible digital citizens in today’s fast-changing online world. I believe that each of us gained practical knowledge on how to protect our identity online, secure our personal information, and be more critical when encountering content on social media especially with the rise of fake news and misinformation,” said MSNP-ISAP Student Activities Coordinator, James Vidad.

From classrooms to concert stages and from leadership workshops to personal journeys, Globe’s work in Cagayan province highlights one truth. The brilliance of Filipino youth is the country’s greatest harvest. By nurturing their potential, Globe is helping shape a generation of leaders, creators, and changemakers who will carry the promise of a brighter future.

For more information about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

PNP-ACG and GCash Target Cybercriminals in Joint Social Media Patrols

As part of its ongoing campaign to patrol social media platforms to reinforce public trust and ensure the security of cashless transactions, the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), in collaboration with GCash, recently apprehended multiple suspects involved in cyber-related crimes that include child exploitation and illegal sale of pre-registered SIM cards.

In one undercover operation, officers intercepted an individual accused of trafficking a minor through a widely used online platform. The suspect allegedly arranged a meeting between the victim and a client at a hotel, unaware that law enforcement had been tracking the illegal activity. The operation, conducted by the PNP-ACG’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons/Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (Anti-TIP/OSAEC) team, successfully rescued the victim and placed the suspect in custody under Republic Act 9208 (Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003), as amended by Republic Act 10364 (Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012).

Meanwhile, officers have intercepted multiple suspects engaging in the illegal sale of pre-registered SIM cards, a known tool for financial fraud and online scams. Law enforcement flagged transactions where registered SIMs were being sold on social media, offering anonymity for scammers operating in digital spaces. Several individuals were arrested under Republic Act 11934 (SIM Registration Act) in relation to Republic Act 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012), ensuring fraudulent activities tied to untraceable identities are curtailed. Additionally, violations under the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA) were noted in separate busts targeting cyber-enabled fraud schemes.

In response to these cyber threats, GCash reiterates its commitment to ensure that digital innovations remain a tool for empowerment rather than exploitation. As a trusted financial platform, GCash continues to work alongside authorities to safeguard users and uphold a secure, cashless ecosystem.

Both PNP-ACG and GCash urge the public to exercise caution when conducting financial transactions online, particularly on social media platforms. Suspicious activities may be reported to PNP-ACG via hotline numbers (02) 8414-1560 or 0998-598-8116, or through email at acg@pnp.gov.ph. GCash users may also file a report through the GCash Help Center at help.gcash.com, by messaging Gigi on the GCash website and typing “I want to report a scam,” or by calling 2882 for the GCash hotline.

To enhance security, GCash continues to remind users never to share their MPINs or OTPs with anyone and to avoid clicking suspicious links that could lead to phishing attempts or unauthorized account access. The company reiterates that it will never send private messages requesting personal information.

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

Philippine Digital Firm Launches Service to Help Brands Stay Visible in AI-Powered Search

Makati City, Philippines – June 23, 2025 – With Google’s AI-powered search results rapidly reshaping how people discover information online, Truelogic, a leading digital marketing consultancy in the Philippines, has launched a new service designed to help brands stay visible and competitive. As AI-generated answers– called AI Overviews– take up more space in search results, businesses that rely on web traffic must quickly adapt or risk being left behind.

Truelogic’s latest study, “Navigating Google’s AI-Enhanced Search,” reveals that AI-generated answers — known as AI Overviews— are now appearing in more Google Search results than ever before. From 6.5% of Google searches in January 2025, they’ve grown to 13% by March. Some platforms even report that 8 out of 10 informational searches now include an AI answer.

“If you're a bank, a school, a retailer or a real estate brand, and your customers search online before making decisions-- this shift in Google's search can directly impact your visibility and leads,” said Bernard San Juan III, Managing Partner at Truelogic. “AI-generated answers are changing how people search and what they click. To stay competitive, your brand needs to show up in those answers.”

Truelogic’s research analyzed leading Philippine brand websites and uncovered key factors that increase the chances of being featured in AI answers:

● Trusted and well-known websites have an edge.

● Clear, detailed content performs better than short pages.

● Fast, mobile-friendly websites rank higher.

● Being mentioned by trusted sources helps more than just having many backlinks.

● Keyword rankings and page count aren’t as influential as they used to be.

“Forget old SEO hacks,” said Timothy Uichico, Truelogic’s Head of Search and Analytics. “Google’s AI rewards quality. Brands need to be fast, helpful and trustworthy— that’s what our new service is built to deliver.”

New AI Search Optimization Service

Truelogic’s new offering helps brands adjust to the AI search era through:

● AI Visibility Check: Find out how often a brand appears in AI answers.

● Content Upgrade: Enhance key pages to be more readable, credible, and AI-ready.

● Speed Boost: Improve site speed and mobile performance to meet AI ranking standards.

● Authority Building: Earn trusted mentions to raise your brand’s credibility.

Read the Full Report Learn more about the research and new ranking factors at: https://www.truelogic.com.ph/blog/ai-in-search/

The New Architects of Tech: Three Female Leaders Creating a More Inclusive Industry

Manila, Philippines — In an era of rapid technological advancement, women are challenging the status quo, redefining innovation, and promoting inclusivity in the industry. Their contributions, from research and development to leadership, demonstrate that women are essential drivers of technological progress and diversity.

According to a Boston Consulting Group study, only 35% of the tech workforce in the Philippines comprises women, despite having the highest number of women technology graduates in the Southeast Asia region (48%). The disparity of opportunity and gender-based discrimination in the workforce is still prevalent despite years of advancing the rights and welfare of women in a male-dominated sector—or perhaps in society. 

Amidst the challenges, these three leading ladies are helping forge a path for future female innovators to make their mark in the technology landscape.

Progression Towards a Digital Philippines

Emmy Lou Versoza-Delfin, Director IV for ICT Industry Development Bureau at the Department of Information and Communications Technology, brings a fresh perspective on the role of government in accelerating the country's digital transformation. With 25 years of forwarding the local ICT industry, Delfin is at the forefront of initiatives to ensure that technology serves as a catalyst for empowerment and equal opportunity for all Filipinos, especially women in the tech sector. Some of these initiatives include promoting diversity in leadership, creating safe and inclusive workplaces, offering training and skill development programs, and opportunities for networking and community-building.

"As a woman leader supporting the tech industry, my motivation stems from the belief that diversity in leadership drives innovation and inclusivity in the digitalization process. The DICT and the local tech industry are actively taking steps to create a more inclusive environment for women. Overall, these efforts contribute to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment where women can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of technology and innovation," Delfin emphasized.

“Remember, you have the power to shape the future of technology and make a positive impact in the world. Keep pushing forward with determination, resilience, and confidence,” she added.

Leading in Innovation: The Path Forward

This evolving narrative of female leadership in technology serves as a bridge to similar progressions in adjacent sectors, illustrating that the momentum of change can happen anywhere. We witness a parallel beacon of female leadership in Rosemarie Ong, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Wilcon Depot Inc. Under Ong's stewardship, Wilcon Depot Inc. has embarked on an ambitious digital transformation journey, setting new standards in the retail and construction supply industry.

Recognizing the critical importance of keeping pace with technological trends, Ong has spearheaded initiatives such as the VR Store Experience and the development of MyWilconApp, which have revolutionized customers' interactions with Wilcon's vast product offerings. Ong's vision extends beyond enhancing customer experience; it's about creating a ripple effect of empowerment and inclusivity. "By investing in women, we foster an inclusive society—transforming the landscape of business competitiveness and productivity," she asserts.

An Inclusive and Thriving Workplace for Women

Historically dominated by male leadership, the tech sector is witnessing a remarkable shift towards gender inclusivity and diversity, thanks to visionaries like Atty. Aileen Regio, co-coordinator of Eastern Communications. With a steadfast belief in the power of innovation and the vital role of women in tech, Regio has been at the forefront of Eastern Communications' transformation. 

Her leadership during the challenging pandemic has not only steered the company towards embracing ICT solutions but has also showcased the indispensability of female leadership in driving technological advancement and organizational change. “Time has truly changed for the better. I want to encourage more women to take the lead and showcase their talents and capabilities,” she highlighted. 

At Eastern, Atty. Regio commits to be a transformative force not just in breaking barriers for women tech innovators, but also in spearheading innovation and adapting to the evolving digital era, “I firmly believed that embracing innovation was best for the company and would benefit our people.” Her seven years of visionary leadership have not only advanced Eastern Communications' position in the telecommunications industry but have also exemplified a broader movement towards inclusivity and progress.

Looking towards the future, Regio envisions a tech industry where women are not just well-represented but are steering the path toward innovation. "I dream that women in tech will thrive, driving innovation and leading change," she stated. With initiatives focused on diversity and gender equality, such as the full implementation of the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act and Safe Spaces Act in the workplace and equal capacity-building opportunities, Eastern Communications is committed to making this vision a reality, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable tech landscape.

The technology industry is changing. Despite the challenges, there's a growing recognition of the need for gender equality and the invaluable contributions women bring to the tech scene. From leadership roles to groundbreaking innovations, women are proving indispensable in pushing the boundaries of what's possible in tech.

The message is clear: the future of technology is not just digital—it is unequivocally inclusive. As we navigate the complexities and competitive tech scene, women will thrive and leave their mark in the world. 

To learn more about Eastern Communications’ women-led programs and services, contact 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph.

917Ventures Supports Filipino MSMEs Adopt Digital Processes with MemoApp

Manila, Philippines, 12 February 2024– While digitalization is valuable for businesses across various scales, it is a critical need for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). MSMEs, unlike bigger businesses, are less likely to introduce digital practices despite these tools allowing them to improve operational processes, foster innovation, and ability to rapidly respond to market changes to remain competitive amidst today’s rapidly evolving landscape.

"Embracing digital tools should be a strategic imperative for sustaining competitiveness and resilience in today's dynamic landscape, but we understand that it is not always easy to make the shift,” said Carla Bianca Sy Su, Entrepreneur-at-Residence at 917Ventures. 

Even with the persistence of digitalization, the World Economic Forum points out that only 25% of MSMEs globally have managed to truly shift and keep up with technology. Specific to the Philippines, only 6% of MSMEs use digital tools revealing a substantial technology gap in the country.

Sy Su said MSMEs, in particular, grapple with numerous manual and paper-based processes but find it difficult to fully adopt digital tools because of financial constraints or constantly adjusting processes.

MemoApp, a web-based solution, was introduced to the Philippine market in late 2023 as one of the newest startups from 917Ventures. Its goal is to support local Filipino businesses digitize their manual and paper-based processes. 

With features such as a swift workflow approval system, an integrated e-signature capability, and effortless access to essential document templates, MemoApp stands as a practical tool for businesses seeking to streamline their operations and boost productivity and efficiency all at a fraction of the cost charged by other solutions. The solution is flexible enough to accommodate all types of business administrative needs, whether for filing contracts, routing for approvals, invoicing, and many others.

“When we talk about digitalization, we often see it as a tool that helps us with external-facing efforts, but before we get to that stage, we have to understand that it is a transformative journey that starts from within a company’s people and operations.” Sy Su added. “Memoapp was created to help businesses of all sizes become more efficient and productive– giving them a tool that allows them to go paperless, route documents faster, and get approvals easily, all in one platform.” 

Creating an avenue for digital transformation

Since its launch, MemoApp has transformed a variety of businesses across different industries including government agencies, education, healthcare, food and beverage, and more. Among businesses that have found success with MemoApp is the Center for Bright Beginnings, an early childhood intervention center in Davao City. 

For over two decades, the center grappled with time-consuming and error-prone paper-based processes–a challenge that intensified with the opening of a new campus in Tagum City. Before implementing MemoApp, requests and approvals were frequently handled manually, requiring hard copies of forms and documents. Unfortunately, this manual process often led to misplacement of documents, causing delays and inefficiencies.

“Before, we had to do all our requests and approvals in hard copy. That became an issue as we now have two separate offices. Since we would need the signatures on hard copy before we can do anything, there were instances when the documents didn’t reach the appropriate signatories or they were misplaced. This led to a lot of things taking more time than necessary and a lot of things had to be put on hold,” said Mandy Gavino, Chief Financial Officer, Center for Bright Beginnings. 

Gavino added that the convenience of having everything accessible on the website enabled swift communication and significantly accelerated approval processes for the center. The shift to MemoApp eliminated their need for physical document filing; providing easier tracking and ensuring accountability for pending approvals. She also talked about how she appreciates MemoApp's Watcher feature, which allows tracking of document progress, as well as the time-saving basic document templates for invoices, leave forms, memos, and more. 

As businesses continue to evolve, the startup plans to introduce more features and integrations in the near future. This includes bulk document creations, bulk approvals, and full-on document collaborations, to name a few.  It is also preparing a self-service feature to enable new users and team members to onboard themselves and create their form templates. 

MemoApp also plans to introduce Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to allow businesses to connect MemoApp to their existing workflow and process software.

Businesses who want to experience a smoother, more organized, and paperless process can register for a Basic Subscription Plan to explore the features of MemoApp. Learn more by visiting memoapp.ph.

PLDT, Smart envision AI accelerating PH digital transformation

PLDT and its wireless unit Smart welcome the advancement of artificial intelligence or AI as a catalyst for the Philippines’ digital transformation.

The PLDT Group sees the technology vastly improving processes and maximizing efficiency. “AI will accelerate the country’s digital transformation. The technology can automate a wide range of tasks, enhance productivity, and even help in decision-making. But most importantly, AI can help improve governance,” said Angel Redoble, FVP and Chief Information Security Officer of PLDT and Smart.

Redoble says that with the technology’s capability to sift through vast data, AI can flag unusual patterns or anomalies that might suggest fraudulent activity. This is particularly helpful in the banking industry where AI can sound the alarm on unusual transactions or patterns that deviate from a customer’s typical behavior.

“Based on historical data, AI has the capability to predict where fraud or corruption is likely to occur. This allows the organization to put in place preventive measures to address potential vulnerabilities,” explained Redoble.

In public governance, Redoble believes that AI can be used to make public spending and government transactions more transparent by combing through data and presenting them in formats accessible to the public.

PLDT and Smart have employed AI and machine learning on their self-optimizing network, joining global operators in the rapid adoption of the technology. PLDT also recently became the first in the local telco industry to offer better customer care with a voice AI solution, expanding its existing suite of customer service channels.

While AI can vastly improve economies and businesses, Redoble warns that AI can also be used by criminal entities to cause disruptions. The system can be programmed to launch phishing attacks, crack passwords, evade detection and create deep fakes.

“In the end, what matters most is the person behind AI. Humans will always dictate whether AI will be our friend or foe. That’s why it’s important that the good guys learn more about this technology faster than the bad guys do,” added Redoble.

PLDT and Smart's push for AI and other new technologies is anchored in the Group's aspirations of elevating customer experience and enhancing operational excellence. It also underscores the Group's support for the government’s nationwide digitalization efforts as one of the founding members of the Presidential Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) under the Digital Infrastructure Pillar.

This effort also highlights the Group’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), particularly on SDG No. 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

Cultivating Well-Being in Today’s Evolving Digital World

Manila, Philippines — As Filipinos navigate today’s evolving digital world and adjust to life-changing disruptions brought by the pandemic, Manulife shared key lessons on how to cope with changes and cultivate one’s overall well-being at this year’s DigiCon Valley 2022, the largest gathering of the digital marketing and advertising industry in the country organized by the Internet & Mobile Marketing Association of the Philippines (IMMAP).

Headlining Manulife’s segment were Melissa Henson, Chief Marketing Officer of Manulife Philippines and Hidilyn Diaz, Olympic Gold Medalist and one of Manulife’s brand ambassadors, while actor and stand-up comedian Victor Anastacio served as the host. 

 

At the DigiCon’s special segment, Henson and Diaz shared their insights and personal takeaways based on Manulife’s recently released study, “The Modern Filipino Family: Exploring Family Dynamics in the new normal.” The study aimed to understand how Filipino families adapted to the new normal, as hyper-digitalization has impacted relationships, and has been deeply imbued in everyday decisions at home and in family life. 

 

Make time for self-care and mental wellness

 

Victor Anastacio started the discussion on the challenges Filipinos faced at the height of the pandemic. “Sobrang daming challenges ang kinaharap natin noong nagsimula ang pandemic – physical, emotional and financial challenges. Lahat ito nakaapekto sa ating pamilya, dahil sa maraming hindi pagkakaintindihan.”

 

These challenges still impact majority of Filipinos today. While people across generations have said that their well-being has improved compared to during the peak of the pandemic, Generation Zs expressed that they are still grappling with negative pandemic effects. Henson shared: “Our study found that 65% of Gen Zs are dealing with digital fatigue, prompting them to seek more offline interactions with friends and family. They also shared that they are sleep-deprived, developed unhealthy eating habits and have increased occurrence of stress, fatigue, and depression. These younger Filipinos may need further guidance on reacquainting themselves in the real world as they have spent most of their time online in the past two years.” 

 

Younger Filipinos may also look to Generation X and millennials for inspiration and ideas on how to deal with stressors. “Gens X and Y have learned to focus on self-care, mental well-being, and personal development, which helped empower them despite the many changes they’ve had to weather,” Henson added.  

 

Diaz agreed and emphasized that caring for one’s mental health has a tangible impact on one’s physical well-being too. “When I started training for the Tokyo Olympics, I needed to condition my mind that I could win at hindi ako nag-iisa sa pag-abot ng pangarap na ito. Naging malaking part ng aking preparations ang mental training at eventually, ang ‘”ma-manifest” ko na makakuha ng gold medal.”

 

Learn to seek help when needed

 

According to Manulife’s study, more Filipinos have also explored various financial products during the pandemic. In the past 12 months, among those surveyed, 25% of Generation X and 33% of Millennials bought insurance products online, while 41% of Generation Z expressed a desire to purchase insurance in the next 12 months. To guide them in their financial journey and make more informed decisions, Henson emphasized the importance of seeking expert advice to help sift through the overwhelming wealth of information available.

 

“Seeing how more Filipinos are exploring various financial channels to diversify their portfolios is a good sign that they are actively seeking ways to grow their wealth. However, we will need to double down our efforts to provide them expert financial guidance, so they’ll also understand how to balance risk and reward,” Henson said. “Seeking advice from a financial advisor is one way to help Filipinos get a clearer picture of their financial goals and find ways to achieve them while being conscious of their risk appetites to yield better returns.”

 

To achieve the historic Olympic gold medal, Diaz also underscored the importance of asking for help, by having people around you whom you can rely on for support. “There is a team behind my success. Hindi ko kakayanin ito ng mag-isa. I needed the support of Team HD, Manulife, at ng aking mga kababayan.”

 

Life has no guarantees, but we can get ahead of uncertainty

 

The pandemic showed how fast things can change, and Filipinos must be ready to keep up with the pace as it can accelerate further. Such mindset and attitude transcend to Filipinos’ heightened desire for protection and security. “The interest in insurance products and life protection increased during the pandemic because Filipinos became hyper aware of the physical and financial impact of falling ill, and the broader impact of other financial challenges. However, this has been a reactive stance. The power of insurance and financial planning is that it helps us prepare for the unexpected before it happens, so we continue to encourage and empower Filipinos to embrace the value of planning ahead and being financially prepared,” said Henson. 

 

To help Filipinos better prepare for uncertainty, Manulife launched a series of flexible and highly customizable financial solutions that can be tailor-fit depending on needs and budget -- HealthFlex, which provides protection coverage for critical illnesses, including heart disease, cancer, and stroke; and FutureBoost, which gives additional rewards on top of insurance protection coverage so Filipinos can grow their wealth simultaneously. 

 

As change is inevitable and developments can be beyond our control, Henson noted that it helps to live by an attitude of lifelong learning. “We are all learning creatures. We always find ways to retool ourselves to better cope with the changes in our environment, which is crucial to making us more resilient.”

 

Diaz added that just as essential is acquiring knowledge on how to plan ahead. “Having a strong foundation sa kung paano mag-plano para ma-achieve ang financial goals ay crucial para sa kinabukasan natin. Mahalaga na maging mas aware ka sa mga financial options available as early as possible para mas maintindihan ang mga kailangang gawin to achieve your goals. Once you decide to grow your investments, you’ll be more consistent with your decisions to make every day better.”

 

******

About Manulife Philippines

The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company opened its doors for business in the Philippines in 1907. Since then, Manulife’s Philippine Branch and later The Manufacturers Life Insurance Co. (Phils.), Inc. (Manulife Philippines) has grown to become one of the country’s leading life insurance companies. Manulife Philippines is a wholly-owned domestic subsidiary of Manulife Financial Corporation, among the world’s largest life insurance companies by market capitalization. Learn more about Manulife Philippines by visiting their website manulife.com.ph and following them on Facebook (facebook.com/ManulifePH), Twitter (@ManulifePH), and Instagram (@manulifeph).

About Manulife 

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider that helps people make their decisions easier and lives better. With our global headquarters in Toronto, Canada, we provide financial advice and insurance, operating as Manulife across Canada, Asia, and Europe, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States. Through Manulife Investment Management, the global brand for our global wealth and asset management segment, we serve individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. Our principal operations are in Asia, Canada, and the United States, where we have served customers for more than 155 years. We trade as 'MFC' on the Toronto, New York, and Philippine stock exchanges and under '945' in Hong Kong. In the previous 12 months, we made CAD$31.8 billion in payments to our customers.

Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com.