A news release from the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday (March 24) visited the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) to personally oversee the initial rollout of fuel subsidies for PUVs and ensure that the distribution process is smooth and well-organized.

“Nandito ako para tiyakin na ‘yung aming ginagawa na fuel subsidy ay maayos kasi mag-start tayo today. Pero hindi lamang dito sa Metro Manila, pero all over the country na ito,” the President said as he addressed at least 27 bus operators who received the subsidy through checks.

The initiative is part of the ₱2.5-billion allocation for PUVs under the Department of Transportation (DOTr) Fuel Subsidy Project.

Under the program, bus operators will receive ₱10,000 per unit, while drivers are entitled to ₱5,000 each.

President Marcos said the subsidies will be released through various channels — including checks, fuel cards, cash, and direct transfers to bank or e-wallet accounts — to ensure all beneficiaries receive the assistance efficiently.

“Tulungan ninyo naman kami para ‘yung mga ating riding public ay hindi masyadong mahirapan, at hindi sila masyadong mabigatan sa pamasahe dahil nga alam naman natin kung ano ‘yung pangyayari – nagbabago ‘yung presyo ng langis all over the world,” the President said.

The Chief Executive stressed the importance of cooperation between the government and the private sector in managing the impact of fluctuating oil prices.

President Marcos also encouraged transport operators to provide feedback on how to further improve the system to benefit both operators and the riding public.

“Kung palagay namin ay kaya naming gawin para pagandahin pa ang sistema, please tell us. Dahil ang gusto natin is as convenient as possible, as easy as possible, at as quick – ‘yung mabilis as possible,” President Marcos said.

“Thank you all for being part of the solution at patuloy nating gagawin ito hanggat kailangan,” the President added.

The program covers a wide range of transport sectors, including jeepneys, buses, taxis, UV Express units, Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS), tricycles, and delivery services.

More than 245,000 drivers and operators of over 1.18 million vehicles are expected to benefit from the initiative.

Distribution for major PUVs has begun, while assistance for tricycle and delivery-service drivers is scheduled after Holy Week.

For drivers, subsidies will be distributed via e-wallet platforms such as GCash or Maya, with the government shouldering transaction fees to ensure recipients receive the full amount.

The measure is intended to support transport workers whose incomes have been severely affected by rising fuel costs.

Recent reports indicated that some drivers have temporarily stopped operating due to higher expenses, while certain bus companies have reduced their trips.

In addition to the fuel subsidy, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will provide financial assistance under its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program for selected transport sectors in Metro Manila.

Meanwhile, fare discounts remain in place for rail commuters using LRT-2 and MRT-3, with senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and students continuing to receive a 50% discount.

Commuters can also avail of the Love Bus “Libreng Sakay” Program, which has been implemented since July 2025 in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao.

For his part, Monsi Alfonso Serrano, founder of THEPHILBIZNEWS, who went to Ukraine several times to painstakingly complete the documentary said, “This film was made not for profit, not for ratings, but out of a shared responsibility to bear witness—and to tell the truth with humanity. In a world shaped by conflict and disinformation, independent storytelling remains one of the most powerful bridges between nations and people. THEPHILBIZNEWS may be far from the country’s largest media organizations, but despite limited resources, this non-commercial documentary proves that even micro media can illuminate stories the world ought to see. This is a story that does not ask for our attention—it asks for our conscience.”

The documentary will be showcased through a private screening in the Philippines, made possible through the presentation of the Araneta Group of Companies, Araneta City, Gateway Cineplex, and UniProm Inc.

GCash, RCBC, FintechAlliance.Ph, ES Print Media Inc., Asia Manila Prime Properties, Hotel Okura Manila, and Discovery Suites Manila, Philippines further support the non-commercial production.

With MTRCB approval secured, Hope for the Dawn to Come stands as a testament to responsible Philippine documentary filmmaking and the enduring power of storytelling to foster empathy, awareness, and solidarity across borders.

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The successful initial tests demonstrate the strength of Globe’s network-level authentication capabilities, enabling automatic verification by securely matching the mobile number entered with the SIM card active in the current data session. By removing reliance on OTPs, SNA significantly reduces exposure to phishing, SIM-swap, and other identity-based fraud risks.

For millions of GCash users who depend on the platform to pay bills, send money, and manage daily finances, Silent Network Authentication delivers a smoother and more secure experience—quietly working in the background to protect accounts while simplifying logins and transactions.

SNA forms part of G Verify, Globe’s verification and anti-fraud portfolio that combines network-level solutions and Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to protect consumers and enterprises from evolving digital threats. Through G Verify, SNA provides fast and accurate identity confirmation, reinforcing trust in digital financial services.

“Security and accessibility must go hand in hand. This milestone is about building trust for the financially included,” said KD Dizon, Vice President and Head of Globe Business. “By working with GCash, we’re demonstrating how network-level innovation can directly improve safety and convenience for millions of Filipinos who rely on digital platforms every day.”

The initiative aligns with global benchmarks, as the SNA POC adheres to GSMA and CAMARA standards to ensure high levels of security and interoperability. Globe has earned GSMA certification for its Number Verification API and is an active participant in the Bridge Alliance API Exchange (BAEx), a regional platform that promotes collaboration and API adoption among telecommunications providers.

“At GCash, security and trust are at the heart of everything we do,” said Miguel Geronilla, Chief Information and Security Officer of GCash. “Partnering with Globe on Silent Network Authentication allows us to add a powerful layer of protection that works seamlessly in the background, so users can focus on what matters most.”

The collaboration also supports the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) call for stronger, more adaptive digital security across the financial sector. It builds on Globe’s earlier successful network API tests with a leading local financial institution, underscoring the company’s leadership in advancing secure, inclusive digital ecosystems.

By transforming its network capabilities into open, programmable platforms through a growing API ecosystem, Globe empowers partners like GCash to deliver safer and more intuitive digital services—helping pave the way for a future where every Filipino can confidently participate in the digital economy.

For more information on Globe Business solutions, visit www.globe.com.ph/business

For complete, step-by-step instructions on activating and using these features, visit: https://help.gcash.com/hc/en-us/categories/48271799391385-Commute

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-242342 Series of 2025

Highlighting the Philippines’ growing reputation as a rising innovation hub, the country’s top tech and fintech leaders, through FinTech Alliance.PH, came together at the Singapore FinTech Festival to showcase digital excellence and strengthen collaboration with global partners.

The country’s largest and most influential fintech trade organization, representing more than 140 corporate members and accounting for 95 percent of retail digital financial transactions, FinTech Alliance.PH led the Philippine delegation in showcasing the nation’s achievements and breakthroughs in digital finance.

Recognized as one of the world’s most prominent gatherings of fintech professionals, executives, and investors, the Singapore FinTech Festival provides the Philippines with a prime platform to attract global partnerships and investments in its fast-growing fintech ecosystem.

Over the past three years, FinTech Alliance.PH has worked closely with the Philippine government in mounting the country pavilion to highlight the nation’s success stories and opportunities in digital finance. In 2024, the group hosted Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, who also serves as the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Advocate for Financial Health. During her visit, she cited the Philippines as a model for promoting financial inclusion and measuring financial health.

Lito Villanueva, Founding Chairman of FinTech Alliance.PH and RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovations and Inclusion Officer, expressed gratitude to the government for its strong public-private collaboration toward digital transformation. He said that through events such as the Singapore FinTech Festival, the Philippines moves closer to becoming a global innovation hub, strengthening its roadmap and forging new partnerships.

Villanueva emphasized that the Philippines’ participation in the festival marks a pivotal chapter in the country’s digital finance journey, underscoring its growing global influence as a rising tiger in digital finance.

The first day of the pavilion featured welcome remarks from Villanueva, Sopnendu Mohanty, Co-Founder and Group CEO of the Global Finance and Technology Network, and Philippine Ambassador to Singapore Medardo G. Macaraig.

FinTech Alliance.PH’s participation in the Singapore FinTech Festival also reflects its commitment to advancing its advocacy presented during the Manila Tech Summit, where President Marcos served as keynote speaker. Villanueva reiterated his proposed 4T Framework—Tech for Good, Tech for Growth, Tech for All, and Tech for Trust—and his 80×80 Vision to onboard 80 percent of adults to digital transactional accounts and convert 80 percent of retail transactions to digital by 2028.

The Bagong Pilipinas Country Pavilion is co-presented by GCash and Maya, with support from Land Bank of the Philippines, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Social Security System, Department of Information and Communications Technology, RCBC, FinScore, Actico, TrustDecision, Hungry Workhorse, and Eco Global Consulting. It is made possible through collaboration among key government agencies, including the Office of the President, Department of Finance, Securities and Exchange Commission, National Development Company, Department of Trade and Industry, Credit Information Corporation, Insurance Commission, and Department of Budget and Management.

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) continue to serve as the backbone of the Philippine economy, accounting for over 99.5% of all registered businesses, providing around 63% of total employment, and contributing significantly to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Yet, despite their importance, many MSMEs remain hindered by high costs, limited access to financial tools, and the complexities of adopting digital payment systems.

Cognizant of these challenges, GCash for Business has launched PocketPay, a game-changing solution that helps small business owners accept card payments easily and affordably, and directly from their smartphones. With this innovation, even small-scale entrepreneurs can expand their reach and operate more efficiently in an increasingly digital marketplace.

PocketPay empowers entrepreneurs to use their phones as secure, fully functional card terminals using near-field communication (NFC) technology. This innovation eliminates the need for expensive hardware, manual verification, or cumbersome setup processes—enabling more MSMEs to participate fully in the nation’s growing digital economy.

“Digital tools have to work with how MSMEs live and operate, often on lean budgets and fast turnarounds,” said Jong Layug, General Manager for B2B at Mynt. “PocketPay was designed to meet them where they are—with solutions that are flexible, reliable, and easy to use. Our goal is to help Filipino entrepreneurs do more with less and thrive in a rapidly evolving business environment.”

By simplifying cashless transactions, PocketPay helps MSMEs reach more customers who prefer card-based or contactless payments. The system also streamlines operations by providing instant confirmations and real-time transaction tracking—saving time and reducing errors.

For café and restaurant owner Miguel Escueta of Frank & Dean, the launch has made a tangible impact on daily operations.

“It has made doing business more convenient, especially at our corporate office branches,” Escueta shared. “Having a third payment option beyond cash and e-wallets is a big help since many customers prefer credit cards. PocketPay makes that process seamless, faster, and more secure.”

He added that digital adoption is not just about convenience—it’s about safety and scalability. “It’s easier to track sales, safer than handling cash, and helps us save time from bank runs,” he said.

Beyond PocketPay, GCash for Business also offers SoundPay, a portable payment solution that accepts QR payments and provides instant voice confirmation with every transaction—ideal for MSMEs looking to expand their cashless capabilities with minimal cost and disruption.

Both PocketPay and SoundPay can be accessed through the GCash for Business Portal, where entrepreneurs can register, order devices, and manage their transactions seamlessly. Merchants who download GCash PocketPay by GCash for Business via Google Play can also enjoy zero transaction fees until December 3, 2025.

As the Philippines continues to accelerate its transition toward a digital-first economy, innovations like PocketPay are vital in ensuring that MSMEs, the lifeblood of the nation’s business landscape to remain competitive, resilient, and empowered to contribute to inclusive and sustainable growth.

This collaboration reinforces GCash’s mission to serve Filipinos wherever they are. With Filipino communities present in nearly every corner of the world, this partnership ensures that overseas Filipinos—from North America to the Middle East, Europe to Asia-Pacific—can now send money home faster, easier, and more securely.

Through the Western Union app, website, or its global network of retail agents, users can ‘cash in’ directly to GCash wallets. Funds are credited instantly and can be used right away for everyday needs like groceries, bills, tuition, savings, insurance, or investments. Customers can send up to ₱500,000 per transaction.

“At GCash, we remain steadfast in our commitment to financial inclusion and empowerment for all Filipinos—both at home and abroad,” said Paul Albano, General Manager of GCash International. “By partnering with Western Union, we’re helping the global Filipino community support their families with greater ease, speed, and peace of mind.”

Western Union’s global scale now connects seamlessly with GCash’s expansive local digital ecosystem—the largest in the Philippines. GCash users benefit from over 339,000 cash-in and cash-out outlets, 5.2 million QR-accepting merchants, and more than 520 partner brands on the GLife platform.

“For Western Union, this partnership strengthens our purpose of serving aspiring populations around the world,” said Gregory Laurent, Regional Vice President for Western Union. “GCash is one of the most respected names in Philippine financial services, and we are proud to work together to support Filipinos both in the country and across the diaspora.”

For millions of OFWs, the integration removes long-standing friction in the remittance process, giving them more control and confidence in managing finances across borders. GCash continues to evolve into a full-featured digital financial hub tailored to the needs of Filipinos—no matter where they are in the world.

According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), remittances from OFWs hit an all-time high of US$ 38 billion in 2024, contributing over 8% to the country’s GDP. While digital channels are growing, many remittances still go through over-the-counter options.

“The integration of GCash and Western Union provides a modern, digital-first alternative—empowering overseas Filipinos to support their loved ones from anywhere in the world, with efficiency and trust,” Albano emphasized.

The fintech leader reaffirmed its Zero Tolerance policy against any form of unlawful activity and reminded customers that GCash has no links to illegal gambling operators. Any site or group claiming otherwise is either misrepresenting GCash or illegally using the platform.

“Illegal online gambling undermines financial integrity and public welfare. GCash has no links to illegal gambling operators, anyone connecting our brand to these sites is either misrepresenting us or illegally using our platform,” said Oscar Enrico A. Reyes, Jr., President and CEO of G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI).

“We are working hand-in-hand with regulators and law enforcement to shut down illicit activity and protect our users.”

How to Stay Protected and Spot Fake or Illegal Accounts:

● QR scans sent via random links, chat apps, or social media posts

● “Too-good-to-be-true” offers such as gaming credits or quick-cash schemes

● Codes that don’t display an official merchant name or logo

● Transactions showing a personal name instead of a verified merchant

What Customers Should Do:

● Only scan QR codes from trusted merchants and billers

● Double-check payment details before confirming transactions

● Report suspicious activity through the GCash Help Center in-app, via hotline 2882, or through BSP Consumer Protection channels

Customers may also report directly to the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group via hotline (02) 8414-1560 / 0998-598-8116 or email messagecenter.acg@pnp.gov.ph

Commitment to Consumer Protection:

As part of its Zero Tolerance commitment, GCash:

● Immediately blocks and suspends accounts linked to illegal transactions.

● Prohibits the misuse of payment QR codes for unlawful payments.

● Works closely with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), and law enforcement agencies to detect, report, and shut down illicit activities.

Since 2023, GCash has already:

● Taken down over 57,000 phishing sites; and

● Reported 916 illegal online gaming sites to authorities.

These efforts reinforce GCash’s aggressive crackdown on illicit operators and its commitment to building a safer digital financial ecosystem.

“GCash is committed to ensuring that Filipinos can transact with confidence and peace of mind. We will continue to strengthen our security systems and work closely with regulators and law enforcement to keep our platform safe,” the company said.

It is undeniable that commuting is also stressful for women, persons with disabilities and senior citizens. From queuing on the line to buy the ticket, this consumes a lot of time, especially during the rush hours.

But the new QR payment system makes MRT-3 more inclusive and commuter-friendly. For women, it reduces the need to line up in crowded areas, enhancing safety and convenience. For persons with disabilities and senior citizens, it removes the hassle of handling cash or navigating ticket machines, allowing them to travel more independently. By simply scanning a QR code, all passengers can enjoy a faster, safer, and more accessible commute.

Skipping the ticket lines and enjoy a faster, more convenient ride on the MRT-3 with the launch of a new cashless automated fare collection system.

In partnership with GCash, the Department of Transportation introduces three easy ways to pay for your MRT-3 rides:

• Tap to Pay with your phone – Use an NFC-enabled Android device for quick entry and exit.
• Scan a Commute QR Code – Generate a QR ticket in-app, scan it at the fast lane, and go.
• Tap with a Visa Card – Use your linked Visa card to pay directly and skip reloading lines.

With just a minimum balance equivalent to the maximum MRT-3 fare, you’re good to ride. The fare is deducted upon entry, with change automatically credited upon exit.

This innovation not only speeds up daily commutes but also eliminates the hassle of cash and long queues, bringing commuters one step closer to a seamless, modern transit experience.

In partnership with the Department of Transportation, GCash has introduced a cashless automated fare collection system at the MRT-3, significantly enhancing the commuter journey. Now, you can pay for your trips in new, easy ways, saving you from long queues and giving you access to a dedicated MRT fast lane. As long as you have a PHP 28 minimum balance in your GCash wallet (the maximum fare for a North Avenue-Taft trip), you’re ready to go! The full amount will be deducted upon entry, and your change will be reflected on your GCash wallet upon exit – you can check details on your app’s Transaction History.

Forget cash or exact coins  – your exact fare is seamlessly deducted from your GCash wallet. You can always check your balance and easily top up anytime, because you’re using your e-wallet directly. Best of all, your phone with the GCash app or GCash Visa Card is all you need!

Here are new, easy ways you can use GCash at the MRT-3:

Tap to Pay using your phone

Using an NFC-enabled Android phone? Great news! Your device is now your ticket for a seamless entry and exit pass.

To get started, GCash Tap to Pay is a quick, one-time activation:

1. Simply tap Settings in your GCash app.
2. Turn on the NFC feature.
3. Log in to your GCash account.
4. Select Tap to Pay and agree to the Terms & Conditions.

Once activated, paying for your MRT-3 ride is just two taps away. Just log in and open your GCash app, then tap your phone on the turnstile upon entry to proceed to the platform. 

Scan your GCash Commute QR 

No NFC for tapping? No worries! You can still enjoy the convenience of cashless commuting by generating a Commute QR code on your GCash app, serving as your digital ticket without the need to input any station details. 

Here’s how easy it is:

1. At the start of the trip, tap Commute on the GCash app.
2. Click Generate QR. You may download the QR or take a screenshot.
3. At the MRT fast lane, position your phone towards the scanner.
4. Once scanned, you’re all set to proceed to the train platform.

Upon exit, just scan the same QR code again, and the exact fare will be automatically deducted from your account. For Globe and TM users, this feature works even without mobile data! 

Tap your GCash Visa Card

Spotty signal, running out of battery, or simply love using a card? You can still breeze through your MRT-3 ride using your GCash Visa Card. Just like the current card ticketing system, you can simply tap your card upon entry and again upon exit. What’s great about the GCash Visa Card is that it’s linked to your GCash wallet for a leveled-up experience! No need to line up to load, use it to pay not just for MRT rides but also shopping in millions of online and offline stores, and withdraw from your GCash in any ATM for as low as P10. Cards are on soft launch – temporarily, your change will be credited to your GCash 24 hours after your MRT trip. See the details on your app’s Transaction History.

To use this convenient feature, order your GCash Visa Card on the app, and when you receive it, make sure to link it to your GCash account:

1. Tap ‘Cards’ in the GCash app to order or link your GCash Visa Card.
2. To order – Select ‘Order a Card,’ then input your delivery address and pay P250. It will be delivered to you in 7-10 days.
3. To link – Select ‘Link my Card,’ then input the One-Time Pin (OTP) and submit.
4. Enter the last 4 digits of your card and your virtual account number found at the back then submit.

With new convenient ways to pay at the MRT-3 station, your everyday commute just got a significant upgrade. Whether you tap, scan, or use your card, you are not just skipping one extra line and saving yourself time, but also experiencing a global, innovative way to pay with GCash!

Ready to power up your commute journey? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery.

GBayanihan brings together donors and humanitarian organizations as a digital community that can quickly respond to disasters with ease and transparency. Users can directly send their donations to organizations who are mobilizing disaster relief operations such as the ABS-CBN Foundation, Ayala Foundation, Inc., UNICEF, Save the Children, and other credible NGOs.

All donations made via the platform allow organizations to respond quickly and efficiently in affected areas.

To donate, users just need to go to the ‘GBayanihan’ feature within the GCash app and choose their intended recipient NGO.

GCash assures donors that the platform adheres to the highest standards of transparency, ensuring their contributions go directly to verified NGO partners.

GCash equally cautions users to exercise vigilance and make sure they are donating to credible causes and organizations amid risks of scammers who may abuse the urgency of the situation. Users are urged to only scan verified QR codes of verified NGOs or use the ‘GBayanihan’ feature directly. Users are also cautioned not to share sensitive account information such as MPINs or one-time passwords (OTPs).

For more information, please visit GCash official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/gcashofficial or https://www.gcash.com./