GCash FutureCast 2024 Leads Filipino FinTech into a Greener Future

CJ Alegre, Head of Sustainability

GCash recently announced 20 groundbreaking product innovations at GCash FutureCast 2024, offering Filipino users a glimpse into the future of fintech. As the country’s top finance super app, GCash continues to revolutionize the face of digital payments, after its revolutionary launch in 2017 and the introduction of a more secure and reliable app in 2023. This year, GCash shifts its focus on enhancing the user experience and empowering Filipinos to achieve financial progress with its latest features. 

With innovations in payments and lending, to advanced security and AI capabilities, GCash is providing its users even more ways to optimize their financial journey. In addition, these innovations are aligned with the company‘s commitment to combat climate change, paving the way to a greener future. With GCash, users can now be at the forefront of both financial and environmental progress.

Pru Life UK embraces upskilling trend to build a future-ready workforce

As Pru Life UK approaches its 28th year in the Philippines, it reaffirms its dedication to fostering a supportive and nurturing workplace through robust employee engagement and development. This approach aligns with the World Economic Forum's findings that businesses prioritising employee development and lifelong learning are more innovative, productive, and satisfying workplaces.

In keeping with these insights, Pru Life UK has integrated extensive career growth and skill development support within its business strategy. Central to this initiative is the "PruWay In Action Series," which comprises interactive sessions that bring the company’s core values to life. These sessions offer employees practical insights, including the introduction of Pru Steps in building the habit of PruWay, demonstrating how these values influence daily operations and decision-making. Furthermore, the PRU Learning Academy offers a diverse range of programs covering leadership development and technical skills, reflecting the company's commitment to continuous learning and skill enhancement. This initiative ensures employees are well-prepared for future challenges, a necessity highlighted by the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs report, which predicts significant skill disruptions by 2027.

Pru Life UK advocates climate and mental health resilience through employee learning session

Leading life insurer Pru Life UK tackled the intersection of climate change and health, with focus on mental health, during an employee session held on its PRUCommunity Day last 2 July. The PRUCommunity Day is Pru Life UK’s initiative to gather employees and celebrate diversity through various communities or advocacy groups that promote a sense of belonging and inclusion.

Led by its Sustainability Changemakers community, with members advocating positive change and long-term resilience for Filipinos, the session prompted critical challenges and opportunities, discussing concerns on climate health.

PRULifetime Income: Securing lifelong financial stability for future generations

In a world where financial stability is more challenging than ever, Pru Life UK’s newest product provides a sense of security especially for parents who want to ensure a stable future for their children and grandchildren. 

PRULifetime Income is a traditional insurance offer that guarantees a 5% annual payout for life that can help prepare financially for a child’s education, emergency needs or any milestone. 

The annual payout is equivalent to 5% of the sum assured. It is payable from the end of the 6th policy year until maturity, regardless of market conditions.

EastWest Celebrates 30th Anniversary With Exclusive New Promos

EastWest is excited to commemorate its 30th anniversary with an exciting array of exclusive promotions. These special offers are designed to elevate the dining and leisure experiences of our cardholders, both within the metro and for those looking to explore destinations outside Metro Manila.

Exclusive Dining Discounts for Metro Manila Residents

EastWest cardholders can enjoy significant savings at some of Metro Manila’s most popular dining establishments. These promotions offer remarkable value and will surely enhance your dining experiences:

California Pizza Kitchen: From July 1 to September 30, enjoy 50% off for a minimum single-receipt spend of Php 3,000, with a maximum discount of Php 2,500. Indulge in your favorite pizzas with this fantastic offer.

North Park: Enjoy a 50% discount for a minimum single-receipt spend of Php 2,500, with a maximum discount of Php 3,000 from August 1 to 31, 2024. Savor classic and authentic Chinese dishes at unbeatable prices.

Admiral Club Manila Bay: Platinum, World, and Infinite Credit Cardholders can enjoy 50% off on lunch or dinner buffet, while Classic, Gold, and Titanium Credit Cardholders can avail 30% off until August 31, 2024.

Sun Life Grepa Joins PTCI in Celebrating Day of the Seafarer Event

Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), one of the leading providers of life insurance in the country, recently participated in the Day of the Seafarer celebration organized by Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc. (PTCI).

The event featured a variety of activities designed to honor seafarers, with Sun Life Grepa providing engaging games, informative financial literacy talks, and free financial consultations. The event was attended by Sun Life Grepa Vice President for Affinity Marketing Joen Songco (2nd from the left), Affinity Marketing Sales Head Marge Estrera (4th from the left), and Affinity Financial Officer Jean Galang (3rd from the left). From PTCI’s side, the attendees included PTC Insurance Agency, Inc. General Manager, Rolando Palad (rightmost) and PTC Holdings, Inc. Associate Director, Rey Austria (leftmost).

Sun Life garners three wins at the Insurance Asia Awards 2024

Sun Life, the no. 1 life insurance company in the Philippines in terms of total premium income, recently earned three recognitions at the Insurance Asia Awards 2024. The company’s triple win consists of the following categories: Business Insurance Initiative of the Year, Insurance Product Innovation of the Year, and Marketing Initiative of the Year. 

Sun Life’s Sun Future Proof program was awarded as the Business Insurance Initiative of the Year. This program crafts financial plans according to the stage of the business – from start-up to growth to maturity – and covers four aspects: personal goals, business continuity, succession planning, and leaving a legacy.  Since its launch, Sun Future Proof has generated impressive results, growing the company’s business owner segment. 

Sun Life Grepa Boosts Healthcare Services with Digital Innovations

Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), one of the major insurers in the country, continues to upgrade its services under the Sun Life Grepa Healthcare unit with more digital innovations. 

The most recent service is its latest digital innovation, the medical locator tool.  The most recent addition is the “Digital Healthcare Locator”. This new feature, accessible through Sun Life Grepa’s website, allows clients to effortlessly search for accredited service providers including hospitals, clinics, and doctors nationwide.

“Our commitment to enhancing client experience and providing accessible healthcare options remains unwavering,” Sun Life Grepa Vice President for Group Business Peter Miranda said. “The new Digital Healthcare Locator is a significant step in that direction, ensuring our clients can find the medical assistance they need quickly and conveniently.”

Why Maya Time Deposit Plus is Your Ultimate Savings and Investment Tool

Ever feel like saving money is a challenge? Whether you’re tucking away your bonus paycheck, setting aside earnings from your side gigs, or seeking to diversify your portfolio with high-yield, guaranteed financial tools, Maya Time Deposit Plus is here to make the process simple and rewarding. As the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, Maya offers an innovative approach to saving and investing that fits seamlessly into your life. 

Here's why you should open a Maya Time Deposit Plus account today:

Sun Life makes financial planning fun for everyone with Play for Life: A Game of Choices

The online version of Play for Life has officially been launched 

Sun Life Philippines successfully launched its new game, Play for Life: A Game of Choices at a star-studded media conference held on July 6, 2024, at Conrad Manila. The event was attended by Sun Life brand ambassadors Piolo Pascual, Matteo Guidicelli, and Sarah Geronimo, who shared their insights about how important it is to make informed decisions for a brighter future.  

EastWest Bank Sponsors Inaugural Philippine Hobie 16 National Championship at Subic Lighthouse Marina Hotel

EastWest Bank recently joined the Philippine Hobie 16 National Championship as a Major Sponsor, in partnership with Subic Sailing Philippines, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, and The Lighthouse Marina Resort. The event brought together sailing enthusiasts and Hobie Cat fanatics from Taal Yacht Club, the Philippine Sailing Association, and Subic Sailing Philippines. Valued EastWest customers, industry leaders, and media representatives such as Beni Gomez from Yacht Style and Barry Dawson from Active Boating & Water Sports Magazine were also present during the event.

The two-day event featured exhilarating races and exclusive promotions, showcasing EastWest Bank's commitment to supporting local sports, elevating Filipino sailors, and enhancing the lifestyle of its partners and clients. Skipper Peter Capotosto, one of the pioneers of the Hobie 16, also joined the National Championship.

PRULifetime Income: Securing lifelong financial stability for future generations

In a world where financial stability is more challenging than ever, Pru Life UK’s newest product provides a sense of security especially for parents who want to ensure a stable future for their children and grandchildren. 

PRULifetime Income is a traditional insurance offer that guarantees a 5% annual payout for life that can help prepare financially for a child’s education, emergency needs or any milestone. 

The annual payout is equivalent to 5% of the sum assured. It is payable from the end of the 6th policy year until maturity, regardless of market conditions.

Sun Life makes financial planning fun for everyone with Play for Life: A Game of Choices

The online version of Play for Life has officially been launched

From left to right: Sun Life Philippines brand ambassador Piolo Pascual, Sun Life Philippines Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer Carla Gonzalez-Chong, and brand ambassadors Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli.

Sun Life Philippines successfully launched its new game, Play for Life: A Game of Choices at a star-studded media conference held on July 6, 2024, at Conrad Manila. The event was attended by Sun Life brand ambassadors Piolo Pascual, Matteo Guidicelli, and Sarah Geronimo, who shared their insights about how important it is to make informed decisions for a brighter future.

Sun Life and Lifestyle Medical Group Manila announce tie-up to empower Filipinos towards a healthier future

Dr. Jan Paolo Dipasupil, Chief Financial Officer, Lifestyle Medical Group Manila; Dr. Marc Dexter Macalintal, CEO, Lifestyle Medical Manila; Dr. Nicole Anne Buenavista, Chief Operating Officer, Lifestyle Medical Manila; Benedict Sison, CEO and Country Head, Sun Life Philippines; Atty. Ed Tordesillas, General Counsel, Sun Life Philippines; and Al Quitangon, Chief Distribution Officer, Sun Life Philippines

Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. recently announced their tie-up with Lifestyle Medical Group Manila, a premier healthcare services provider. This collaboration aims to empower Filipinos to prioritize their health and well-being through a holistic approach that combines financial security and high-quality healthcare.  

Democratizing access to credit to drive financial inclusion in PH — UBX

Januszczak suggests use of alternative data, AI to assess credit worthiness

Open finance has the potential to revolutionize the financial industry by democratizing access to credit for the unserved and underserved segments in the Philippines, according to the president of UBX, the driver of digital transformation in the Philippines.

During his talk at the Digital Banker’s South East Asia Tour, UBX President and CEO John Januszczak emphasized that open finance can unlock credit by leveraging non-traditional data that focuses on measuring character and credibility instead of credit scores, which are traditionally driven from banking transactions.

Pru Life UK hosts nationwide events for aspiring financial advisors

Join Pru Life UK's Build Your Business Sessions this July!

In a bid to nurture entrepreneurial talent and drive financial security across the country, leading life insurer Pru Life UK is set to continue its series of Build Your Business (BYB) sessions throughout July. 

Held both in-person and virtually nationwide, these sessions offer budding entrepreneurs valuable insights into building a sustainable and financially stable business in the life insurance industry. 

By holding these sessions, Pru Life UK aims to expand its 38,000-strong agency force, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of securing the lives of more Filipino families. 

Putting customers first: Pru Life UK unveils 'Our Reason is You'’ campaign

Leading life insurer Pru Life UK continues to champion its customers with its latest campaign, 'Our Reason is You’. It features heartwarming real-life client stories, underscoring the company’s dedication to putting its customers at the core of its business.

By understanding its customers’ evolving needs, Pru Life UK delivers its promise through life’s most challenging moments.

Sun Life 5150 Bohol gears up to empower Filipinos on their health and fitness journey

Sun Life Philippines, grounded in its commitment to help Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives, is gearing up for the highly anticipated Sun Life 5150 triathlon. 

This year’s Sun Life 5150 will be held on July 14, 2024, at the Bellevue Resort in Panglao, Bohol. This will once again serve as a platform for athletes to challenge themselves to complete a 1.5-kilometer swim, a 40-kilometer bike ride, and a 10-kilometer run, whether as an individual racer or a part of a relay team.

Sponsored by Sun Life and organized by the IRONMAN Group, the event offers an inclusive experience for everyone. Seasoned triathletes can push their limits in the classic triathlon distances, while aspiring athletes and first-timers can find their starting point. 

Sun Life Foundation promotes food security and livelihood sustainability in Surigao del Norte

Sun Life Financial Inc. (TSX: SLF) (NYSE: SLF)

Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation), the philanthropic arm of Sun Life Philippines, recently handed over two food sheds to the barangays of Caub and Halian in the fifth-class municipality of Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte providing better access to better nutrition and additional income for the locals.

Titled “Food Shed Farming Enterprise,” the project aims to provide the low-income barangays with improved food security and a sustainable agriculture-based livelihood. The turnover ceremony, held on May 10, 2024, was a key milestone in Sun Life Foundation’s ongoing collaboration with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines.

Deel Launches Deel Physical Spend Cards Worldwide

Deel VISA physical card is now available for contractors in 20 countries.

More contractors will now have the possibility to gain instant access to their earnings, shop worldwide, pay securely, and hold their money in a more stable currency.

The card is powered by Airwallex, a leading global payments and financial platform for modern businesses

Deel, a global HR company, today announced the global launch of its physical spend card, now accessible for contractors in 20 countries, with many more planned to land soon. This brings contractors one step closer to accessible global purchasing power, allowing them to gain instant access to their earnings, shop worldwide, pay securely, and hold their money in a more stable currency. 

The Deel Card acts as a spend card (both virtual & physical), empowering contractors to make purchases and payments with ease wherever they are, and avoiding the hassle of waiting for funds to clear in their bank account before they can access them. Now, with Deel Card, they can start spending their hard-earned income immediately.

Shop smart this back-to-school season with Home Credit's Shoppingmall.ph

Here's why researching first can make a big difference when shopping for student gadgets 

As students advance to higher academic levels each year, their needs constantly evolve. This makes upgrading their gadgets—whether laptops, tablets or smartphones—essential for the upcoming back-to-school season to support their learning and productivity. 

With a wide range of options on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine the best gadget that meets the needs of the students in your family while fitting your budget. Fortunately, the internet provides an accessible platform to research these gadgets before making a purchase, giving you the right resources you need to shop smartly and efficiently.

Sun Life Philippines Shines At The Gold Quill Awards

The leading life insurer bags three awards for its outstanding marketing campaigns

Sun Life's Don Peji and Ila Lucmayon at the Gold Quill Awards held in Chicago, USA

Sun Life Philippines, the longest-standing and #1 life insurer in the country, has been recognized at the prestigious Gold Quill Awards for its excellence in communication.

The company won an Award of Excellence for its Brand Health Journey and an Award of Merit for its Freedom to Live Brighter campaign. It also received the Team of the Year Special Award for its Client Experience & Marketing Departments.

Sun Life’s Brand Strategy and Management Head Don Aaron Peji and Digital Marketing and Advertising Head Ila Muriel Lucmayon received the awards.

Landco Pacific Corporation’s Resort Estates Club Laiya Wins the Gold Award at the 2024 FIABCI Philippines Property and Real Estate Excellence Awards

Club Laiya, Landco Pacific Corporation’s 23-hectare beachfront Resort Estates at Laiya, San Juan, Batangas, attained the Gold Award for Outstanding Development in Luzon – Masterplan in the 2024 Property and Real Estate Excellence Awards organized by the Philippine chapter of the International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI - Fédération Internationale des Administrateurs de Bien-Conselis Immobiliers), considered as the “Oscars of Real Estate,” which recognizes properties that best embody excellence in all real estate disciplines.

51% of women-led SMEs surveyed in the Philippines experience increased revenue after accepting digital payments

Visa, a global leader in digital payments, conducted a survey on small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in the Philippines. Findings show that 51% of women-led SMEs and 56% of micro-businesses experienced revenue growth with digital payments adoption. Given women constitute over half of Asia's population and SMEs' vital role in the economy, maximizing women's economic potential could add $89 billion annually to the Asia Pacific economy including in the Philippines. 

SMEs are crucial for  economic growth in the Philippines, with more than a million Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the country. The Philippines’ Department of Trade and Industry data show that 99.5% of businesses in the country are MSMEs with almost 50% of them in wholesale and retail trade, generating 65% of total employment. Furthermore, the Asian Development Bank estimated that MSMEs contribute around 36% of the country’s GDP.

1001 Parkway Residences Wins Award, Marks Milestone: A Sustainable Oasis Rises in Filinvest City

L-R: Winnie Lim, First Sr Vice President, Chief Technical Planning Officer of SharePro Inc. (SPI), Cherie B. Fernandez, President and COO of SharePro Inc. (SPI) and President of Dreambuilders Pro, Inc. (DPI), Chiqui Huang, CEO of Filinvest Development Corp. (FDC), Catherine Ilagan, President & CEO of Filinvest Alabang Inc. (FAI) Daphne Sanchez, Sr. Vice President for residential and estate of Filinvest Alabang Inc. (FAI) and Don Ubaldo, First Vice President for Townships of Filinvest Alabang Inc. (FAI)

1001 Parkway Residences in Filinvest City, Alabang, a high-rise residential condominium complex developed by Filigree, recently celebrated several significant milestones. The First Concrete Pouring Ceremony marked the project’s transition from plans to tangible reality.