Thursday, October 30, 2025

EWRB Partners with DepEd NCR to Honor 50 Years of Educational Excellence

Showing its full support for the country’s education sector, EastWest Rural Bank (EWRB) joined the Department of Education – National Capital Region (DepEd NCR) in marking its 50th Founding Anniversary. The celebration, held at Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City, brought together teachers, administrators, officials, and partners from 21 divisions across Metro Manila. EWRB served as the only private bank invited as an official sponsor, providing the official event shirts for the participants.

DepEd NCR, one of the country’s largest regional offices, oversees more than 2,000 public elementary and secondary schools across Metro Manila, serving hundreds of thousands of teachers, non-teaching staff, and learners. Its golden anniversary marked five decades of service and excellence in public education.

Wednesday, October 29, 2025

PNB Makati Center: A growing hub for health and wellness along Ayala Ave.

Within Makati City, one major thoroughfare has become a popular destination for those who want a safe and open space where they can exercise and connect with others. On weekends, Ayala Avenue transforms into a vibrant space for bikers, joggers, and wellness enthusiasts, attracting a growing community that values both productivity and healthy living.

As interest grows in promoting work-life balance in the city, PNB Makati Center is positioning itself as one of the most attractive locations for health and wellness brands looking to tap into this momentum.

Only Maya Gives You the Power to Save Your Favorite Housemate in PBB Celebrity Collab 2.0 Edition

After a successful run of the last Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) Celebrity Collab Edition, Maya—the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines—is back inside Kuya’s house. With a new batch of Gen Z Kapamilya and Kapuso housemates, fresh collab twists, and iconic moments unfolding every week, the magic of the PBB Celebrity Collab 2.0 Edition is stronger than ever. Returning as this season’s official voting partner, Maya gives Mayamayans the power to save their favorite housemate in just a few taps. 

Whether you're a loyal stan, a silent voter, or a full-on fandom commander, Maya makes it easier and smarter to go all out for your fave. 

Mayet Dela Rosa Fine Jewelry redefines luxury with launch of investment-grade gold bars in the Philippines

With the MDLR Legacy Gold Bar Collection, timeless design evolves into timeless value: an heirloom of security and sophistication

For over two decades, Mayet Dela Rosa Fine Jewelry has been synonymous with artistry, authenticity, and elegance. Now, the brand moves beyond adornment to redefine what it means to be its own gold—not just a symbol of beauty, but a safeguard of enduring wealth.

The fast-rising jewelry company in the Philippines sets its sights on growing its investment legacy by introducing its exclusive line of investment-grade gold bars that transform the timeless allure of gold into a tangible legacy of stability, dignity, and foresight.

Monday, October 27, 2025

Security Bank Capital marks 30 years of purpose-driven finance for a sustainable Philippines

From L-R: Marvin Matias, Coverage and Origination Team Head; Daisy Garcia, Head of Syndicate and Distribution; Virgilio Chua, President and CEO; Maria Margarita Antoinette Lee - Coverage and Origination Team Head; Daniel James Locsin, Coverage and Origination Team Head

Security Bank Capital, the investment banking arm of Security Bank Corporation, marks its 30th anniversary with a renewed commitment to financing a sustainable and inclusive future for the Philippines.

Since its founding in 1995, Security Bank Capital has played a key role in shaping the country’s capital markets—arranging over PHP1 trillion in funding for transformative projects in infrastructure, energy, real estate, mining, manufacturing, health care, and financial services. Through these transactions, the firm has helped drive economic growth, business expansion, and industry modernization.

Sunday, October 26, 2025

Billease Launches “Deals,” Bringing Shopping and Financing Together in One Easy App Experience

Billease, the Philippines’ fastest-growing consumer finance app, has officially launched Deals, an in-app shopping feature designed to deliver the best and most affordable deals in the market, with flexible payment options and a seamless end-to-end shopping experience, all within the Billease app.

The new feature allows Filipino shoppers to browse discounted products sold by its trusted and accredited online merchants, shop, and check out, all without leaving the Billease app. Shoppers can pay over time using their existing Billease credit limit, combining exclusive offers with flexible installment options.

Saturday, October 25, 2025

Holiday Travel Made Easy: 3 Ways to Beat the Christmas Rush

Make your holidays merry, not heavy—GCash GGives, GCredit, and GInsure got you covered.

Between group chats that can’t decide where to go, sold-out stays, and flights that suddenly cost more than your 13th-month pay, holiday travel planning already feels like a sport. Your wallet’s crying before you’ve even booked a ticket, and that konting budget? Lalong ‘di kakasya kasi mahal lahat! 

Holiday travel hits different—it’s exciting but expensive, and the chaos can test even the most seasoned traveler. But don’t hang up your travel goals just yet—here are three foolproof, wallet-friendly ways to make it through the holiday rush and actually get to your destination, stress-free:

Thursday, October 23, 2025

Security Bank Economic Forum 2025: Navigating tariffs, trade, and ASEAN’s next moves

[From left] Mimi Ong, business journalist and TV host; Cirilo P. Noel, Chairman; Curtis S. Chin, former U.S. Ambassador to the ADB and Senior Advisor for Global Markets at Milken Institute; Dr. Cielito F. Habito, former Socioeconomic Planning Secretary; and Sanjiv Vohra, President and CEO at the Security Bank Economic Forum 2025.

Now in its 15th year, the Security Bank Economic Forum continues to be a premier platform for business and investors to understand trends driving growth and opportunity across ASEAN. This year’s theme, “Trump, trade, and the impact on ASEAN,” zeroes in on how shifting US trade and tariff policies are reshaping the region’s economic outlook and influencing strategies for resilience and growth.

Wednesday, October 22, 2025

Alsons Dev to Redevelop Aldevinco to Support Davao’s Growing Urban Landscape

Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) announced that it will begin the redevelopment of the Aldevinco Shopping Center site by the end of October 2025. Located at the corner of C.M. Recto and Roxas Avenue, the property has long been an iconic presence in downtown Davao. The redevelopment will usher in a new era for this historic landmark, paving the way for a modern, mixed-use destination that supports the city’s continued growth and revitalization while honoring its history and heritage.

Aldevinco Shopping Center served as one of Davao City’s earliest commercial hubs and stood as a cultural landmark for over five decades.

Monday, October 20, 2025

The Truth About Retirement: What You Need to Know

Retirement is a chapter in life that many look forward to, yet few are truly prepared for. 

An online survey by Sun Life Asia across the Philippines, mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Malaysia Singapore, and Vietnam conducted in July 2024 revealed that 21% of retirees in the Philippines had not planned their retirement expenses and close to half express regret over past financial decisions, with 73% saying they have not saved enough for retirement.

Today, many Filipinos live well into their seventies, and many may outlive their retirement savings, as the cost of living doubles approximately every eight to 10 years, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). Additionally, major illnesses that come with age can deplete years of hard-earned savings.

The Pink Glitter Edition Maya Visa Card Just Dropped—Here’s Why Everyone’s Obsessed

ICYMI: Maya, the #1 Fintech Ecosystem and #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, just dropped its newest Pink Glitter Edition Maya Visa Card, and everyone is raving about it. This isn’t just another card in your wallet, it’s the card you’ll want to carry, use, and show off every single day.

All glitter. No filler. 

The Pink Glitter Edition Maya Visa Card delivers on all fronts: design, function, and benefits. Its matte glitter finish gives it a premium, polished look while ensuring it slides smoothly into ATMs and payment terminals for easy, worry-free transactions.

Visa readies banks for expansion of digital payments in other train lines with urban mobility workshop

With the launch of the open-loop, contactless payment system in the MRT last July, Visa is readying local banks to facilitate transit payments for expansion to LRT 1 and 2

Visa, in partnership with Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), conducted a forum to boost readiness of Philippine banks for transit payments as the country gears up for expansion of the automated fare collection system in LRT 1 and 2.

Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, is gearing up for the expansion of automated, contactless fare systems to other train lines in partnership with Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC). Through a workshop on smart mobility, Visa and RCBC shared solutions and best practices for issuers on managing digital payments for various modes of transit, particularly urban rail. 

Friday, October 17, 2025

VUL Insurance: Your Shield and Your Tool for Financial Growth

Ivan Corcuera, Head of Insurance Investments at Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation

In the world of financial planning, one solution that has sparked both interest and debate over the years is a Variable Unit-Linked (VUL) insurance plan. While it became well-known for offering life insurance with an investment component in one package, it has also garnered mixed feedback, often with negative reactions from Clients who felt their investments did not grow as expected.

“VUL has been misunderstood by many,” shares Ivan Corcuera, Head of Insurance Investments at Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all product, and it’s certainly not a shortcut to wealth. It’s a financial tool designed to protect first and grow second.”

A life insurance plan that combines lifelong protection and fund accumulation, VUL’s core purpose is to provide a substantial financial shield for a family when they need it most. The opportunity for growth, while a powerful and valuable feature, is a secondary benefit.

Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Security Bank joins Bacoor’s growth story with new full-service branch

Security Bank executives and guests at the opening of the Bank’s 362nd branch in Bacoor, Cavite  (From left): Hannah Anonuevo, FVP and Area Head; Jet Rabe, Director/ Owner, SSMC Group of Hospitals and Clinics; Engr. Emillie Ronquillo, President/Owner, Rizhle Construction and Development Corp; Leslie Cham, EVP and Branch Banking Group Head; Myrna Bernardino, Vice President of Agri Commercial Inc.; Flordeliza Llave, Business Manager of Bacoor Branch; Rolly Papagayo, President/Owner, Rotating Machines Rewinding Inc; Yves Guevarra, President/OwnerYS Prealtech Waterproofing and Painting Solution; Kaye Sanchez, Representative from Office of the Mayor; Suzette Pineda, FVP and Region 5 Head; and Ronald Austria, SVP and Branch Banking Luzon Distribution Head

Monday, October 13, 2025

Mas Pina-Easy ang Negosyo: 3 Filipino MSME Owners Share How To Enter Your Easy Era of Business

Many of today’s MSMEs are born from a passion: a recipe that's been passed down for generations, a love of coffee and pastries, or a vision to showcase local fashion and design to the global stage. But turning that passion into a sustainable business is another thing on its own. Day-to-day challenges like managing orders and keeping payments on track can be overwhelming.

As businesses grow, so does the need for better tools. While there’s no shortage of tech in the market, many MSMEs often steer away due to cost and complexity. However, when presented with the opportunity to use solutions from GCash for Business, more business owners are discovering the advantages of adopting new tech innovations — especially when it comes to payments.

Bright Balikbayan Spending: An OFW’s Finance Guide for the Homecoming Season

Homecoming season is the time that every Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) looks forward to. It’s a chance to be with family and a time to celebrate all the hard work. However, the pressure to spend generously, especially with pasalubong and gifts, can quickly derail financial plans.

While the homecoming is a time of celebration, it’s also a moment to reassess financial priorities. The joy of reunions and festivities can easily lead to overspending or neglecting long-term goals. That’s why it’s essential for OFWs to come home not just with gifts, but with a clear financial strategy. Here are some money management tips to ensure your homecoming is memorable and financially secure.

Saturday, October 11, 2025

AXA Global Leadership Highlights Philippines as Strategic Market

AXA global executives highlighted the Philippines' strong growth potential during their visit in the country, citing its expanding economy and young population's rising demand for insurance and financial services. [From left to right: AXA Philippines Chief Financial Officer Mikael Malaganne, Chief Human Resources Officer Sharon Hernandez, Chief Operations Officer Kathleen Villegas, Chief Transformation and Technology Officer Caloi Santos, AXA Group Chief Executive Officer Thomas Buberl, AXA Philippines Chief Executive Officer Ayman Kandil, AXA International Markets Chief Executive Officer Hassan El-Shabrawishi, AXA Philippines Chief General Insurance Officer Gael Lapie, AXA Philippines Chief Distribution Officer Khaled Younis, and AXA Philippines Chief Marketing Officer Nandy Villar.]  

AXA, a worldwide leader in insurance, reaffirmed its commitment to the Philippines as a key growth market during the recent visit of its global leadership team. AXA Group Chief Executive Officer Thomas Buberl and AXA International Markets Chief Executive Officer Hassan El-Shabrawishi emphasized the country’s strong potential, citing its growing economy of about 5% per year that is driven by strong domestic demand from a growing yet fragile middle class, its young and dynamic population, and increasing demand for protection and financial solutions. They noted that these factors make the Philippines both a vital market for AXA’s global strategy and a hub of innovation and resilience. 

Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Treat Yourself: Get Up to 20% Cashback When You Dine at Thousands of Casual Dining Restaurants with Maya Credit Cards

Who says treating yourself has to cost more? For many of us, food is the ultimate comfort, whether it’s a favorite ramen bowl, a barkada samgyup night, or a cozy dinner catch-up. Now with your Maya Credit Card, those moments don’t just satisfy cravings — they reward you too. 

Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, makes every dining experience more rewarding. Get up to 20% cashback, with as much as ₱1,000 credited straight to your Maya Wallet every month, when you dine with your Maya Black or Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card. 

The Nautilus at CaSoBe (Calatagan South Beach) Sets Sail as the Philippines’ First Beachfront Condominium with EDGE Advanced Certification

At the Calatagan horizon where luxury meets responsibility, a new standard for coastal living is taking shape. The Nautilus at 15-hectare CaSoBe, Landco Pacific Corporation’s iconic 10-storey beachfront condotel in Batangas, has achieved the Preliminary EDGE Advanced Certification, making it the first residential and commercial beach condominium development in the country to earn this international recognition for sustainable design.

“The Nautilus sets a new benchmark as the first beachfront condominium development in the country with a Preliminary EDGE Advanced Certificate,” said Engr. Leandro A. Conti, PME, ASEAN Engineer, Philippine Green Building Initiative (PGBI) Chairman and President. “It is proof that sustainable design and aspirational living are not opposing ideals, but powerful partners in shaping resilient communities.” PGBI is the local partner of International Finance Corporation in EDGE Certification in the Philippines.

Tuesday, October 7, 2025

Sun Life teams up with Asian Hospital and Medical Center to champion health and wellness

Al Quitangon, Chief Distribution Officer of Sun Life Philippines; Abigail Viaje, Chief Actuary of Sun Life Philippines; and Dr. Beaver Tamesis, President and CEO of Asian Hospital and Medical Center

In line with its mission to help Filipinos live financially secure and healthier lives, Sun Life Philippines, the country’s leading life insurer, has teamed up with premier healthcare institution Asian Hospital and Medical Center (AHMC) to launch a collaboration anchored on a shared mission of providing holistic care and protection for every Filipino.

Sunday, October 5, 2025

Filinvest at 70: Giving Back through Loaves X Fish

10,000 meals pledged to support communities in need

Filinvest Group’s 70th anniversary was made more meaningful during the partners’ event on September 17 with a gesture of giving. For every guest in attendance, 70 meals were pledged by Filinvest to the Loaves X Fish Foundation, amounting to a total of 10,000 meals, for those most in need.

Saturday, October 4, 2025

Building Vibrant Communities: Alsons Dev Co-organizes Davao City’s First Culture, Arts, and Heritage Summit

Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), in partnership with the Davao City Office for Culture and the Arts (OCA), the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Inc. (CLAFI), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), co-organized the first Davao City Culture, Arts, and Heritage Summit on September 26, 2025, at the Holy Cross of Davao College. 

Over 300 artist-leaders, creatives, and cultural workers from 16 subsectors, including film, music, visual and performing arts, design, literature, architecture, gastronomy, research and education, and heritage conservation, gathered to discuss challenges, shape policy, and strengthen collaboration in advancing Davao’s cultural identity.

Friday, October 3, 2025

Kinapos Pero Kinaya: Diskarteng Pinoy Stories on Stretching Every Peso

Relatable ways Filipinos handle budget gaps with smart diskarte, and how GLoan Sakto helps fill them when needed

Sometimes, no matter how resourceful you are, unexpected shortfalls happen. Sometimes it's running out of money for the daily commute, being low on gas, or coming up short on budget at the grocery counter. Other times, it’s something simple but urgent, like needing shampoo, baby’s milk, or even a quick snack.

Filipino breadwinners don’t just get by. They get creative. In a culture built on resourcefulness, diskarte stories are part of our shared experience: the small hacks, clever tricks, and laugh-or-cry moments we all use to stretch every peso. 

Thursday, October 2, 2025

Security Bank announces leadership transition and appointment of next CEO

Security Bank has announced the appointment of Victor Lee Meng Teck as its next President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He is set to assume the role in early January 2026, following the completion of his work permit, visa, and other regulatory requirements. He will succeed Sanjiv Vohra, who will continue to lead the Bank until that time. Upon stepping down, Mr. Vohra will transition to the role of Senior Advisor to the Board.

Victor Lee is a Singaporean banker with over 30 years of leadership experience throughout Asia. Most recently, he served as CEO of CIMB Singapore and CEO of Growth Markets for CIMB Bank Berhad.

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Visa and PhilGuarantee sign agreement to support MSME growth

Visa and PhilGurantee to work together to explore credit access and drive financial inclusion for MSMEs

From left to right: Philippine Guarantee Corporation (PhilGuarantee) Acting Department Head for Priority Sectors Guarantee Group Gina Banaag and Senior Vice President and Group Head, Priority Sectors Guarantee Group Celso Gutierrez, with Visa Philippines Country Manager Jeffrey Navarro and Head for Visa Government Solutions, Regional Southeast Asia Bella Lai. 

Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Philippine Guarantee Corporation (PhilGuarantee) to expand credit access and promote financial inclusion for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Building Credit Confidence for Filipinos

How the People Behind JuanHand Make Borrowing Safer and Simpler

For many Filipinos, the word “utang” carries a mix of hope and hesitation. It can mean a chance to start a small business or pay for a child’s tuition, but it can also bring fears of scams, high interest rates, and unending debt. According to TransUnion’s 2025 Credit Perception Index, the Philippines scored 73 out of 100: proof that while caution remains, trust in credit is gradually taking root.

What’s encouraging is that Filipinos are becoming increasingly financially aware and optimistic about the opportunities responsible borrowing can unlock. And behind every lending app or platform are real people working to make that experience safer and easier to understand.

Security Bank expands reach with new branch in Naic, Cavite

Security Bank opens its 361st branch in Naic, Cavite (L-R): Ronald Austria, SVP and Branch Banking Luzon Distribution Head; Jeany Sabillo, General Manager of Lotus Development Corporation; Bienvenido Guevera Jr., President of Haumaru Realty Ventures; Marcela Angeles, Sales Manager of Antel Land Holdings, Inc. – Anyana Tanza; Hon. Mayor Rommel Magbitang, Municipal Mayor of Naic; Leslie Cham, EVP and Branch Banking Group Head; Atty. Arnel Janabajal, President of Colegio de Naic; Lourdeni Sourtijas, Business Manager of Naic Branch and Hannah Anonuevo, FVP and Area Head

Security Bank has inaugurated its 361st branch in Naic, Cavite, strengthening its footprint in Southern Luzon and bringing its signature BetterBanking experience closer to residents and local businesses.