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.

Security Bank Recognized by LinkedIn for Scaling AI-Enabled Learning Across its Workforce

Makati City, Philippines — Security Bank Corporation (PSE:SEBC) has been recognized at the LinkedIn Talent Awards 2025, winning the AI Pioneer: Learning Champion Award under the Above 10,000 Employees on LinkedIn category. 

The recognition highlights how the Bank is embedding AI into everyday learning, making development more accessible, personalized, and aligned to business needs at scale. 

 This includes the use of AI-driven learning pathways, personalized content recommendations, and integration into everyday workflows, enabling employees to access learning in real time and apply it directly to their roles. 

 This approach reflects the Bank’s focus on building a high-accountability culture, where people build relevant skills, take ownership, and deliver consistently for customers. 

 The Bank stood out for its practical application of AI in learning, with strong adoption across teams and clear alignment to business priorities. Since launch, the program has seen broad engagement across the organization, supporting continuous upskilling in areas critical to the Bank’s growth. Notably, course completion reached 109% for programs converted into LinkedIn Learning pathways, while 44% of employees engaged with LinkedIn Learning’s AI features, including AI Role Play and the AIPowered Coach. 

 “This recognition reflects how our teams are embracing new ways of learning and applying them in their work,” said Nerissa Berba, EVP and Chief People Officer. “Our focus is simple: build capabilities that matter and make learning part of how we deliver BetterBanking every day.”  

 The LinkedIn Talent Awards recognize organizations that are transforming how they develop and engage talent through innovation and technology. This recognition reinforces Security Bank’s commitment to building a skilled, adaptable workforce that supports long-term growth and better customer outcomes. 

Sun Life’s Hoops + Health Marks Three Years of Championing Healthier Lifestyles for Filipino Youth

MANILA, PHILIPPINES (May 2026) – For more than three years, Sun Life Philippines, in cooperation with the Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. and global sport for social change foundation Beyond Sport, has been championing healthier, more active lifestyles among Filipino youth through its Hoops + Health program – using the power of basketball to drive long-term well-being.

 

This year, the program reached a new milestone with the renovation and reopening of the Bagong Pag-asa ng Taguig Homeowners Association, Inc. (BPTHAI) Basketball Court in Taguig, giving young athletes in the community a safe space to play, grow, and stay active. The refurbished court – which features upgraded flooring, hoops, and facilities – now serves as a hub for youth development and community engagement.

 

The reopening was marked by a vibrant community event that brought together young players, coaches, and volunteers. Participants took part in basketball clinics covering shooting, ball handling, and defense, alongside exhibition performances, friendly competitions, and a 3x3 mini tournament. Guest athletes and Sun Life volunteers – including its leaders, advisors, and employees – joined in the celebration, reinforcing the shared commitment to empowering the next generation through sport.

 

“Filipinos have always been passionate about basketball as this has become a shared experience across generations,” said Joy Castillo, Chief Operating Officer of Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. and President of the Sun Life Foundation. “By tapping into this love for the sport, we aim to inspire the youth to adopt healthier habits that they can carry with them for life.”

 

Since its launch in 2023, Hoops + Health has gone beyond clinics and games. Through collaborations with community groups, coaches, and health professionals, the program integrates lessons on fitness, nutrition, and mental wellness into engaging, accessible experiences for young Filipinos.

 

For over 130 years, Sun Life has remained committed to nation-building – going beyond financial security to support the overall well-being of Filipinos, especially the youth. Through initiatives like Hoops + Health, the company aims to empower the next generation to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

 

To learn more about Sun Life Philippines, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following @sunlifeph on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.