Category: Time Out

  • URC Continues to Shine as the Philippines’ Leading Consumer Staples Company for the Third Consecutive Year

    One of Asia’s leading financial publication, Asiamoney  has, for a third year in a row, named Universal Robina Corp. (URC) as the Philippines’ most outstanding company in the consumer staples sector in its Asia’s Outstanding Poll 2023.

    CreamO



    Asiamoney handed the award to URC, one of the Philippines’ largest food manufacturers, after an exhaustive survey of the region’s top capital movers and financial experts.

    URC president and CEO Irwin Lee said clinching the award three times in a row “serves as a validation of the quality of our product, and a testament to the unyielding trust and confidence that our valued customers have in us”.

    “It is also a recognition of the remarkable dedication shown by our workforce, and a reaffirmation of the overall excellence that defines our company,” he added.

    Asiamoney is a top source of news, commentaries and data services for international capital markets.

    The  2023 Asia’s Outstanding Company Poll  covered over 1,225 fund managers, analysts, bankers and ratings agencies. In total, 7,653 votes were received for publicly listed companies across 13 markets in Asia.

    The results recognized 194 companies as being the most outstanding in their respective sectors and markets.

    The poll was designed to acknowledge listed firms that have excelled in areas such as financial performance, management team excellence, investor relations and corporate social responsibility.

    Lee thanked the diverse group of fund managers, analysts, bankers, and ratings agencies who participated in the voting. 

    “We are also grateful to all our stakeholders – employees, suppliers, customers, and consumers – whose unwavering support and dedication have been instrumental in our resilience during the recent challenging years,” he added.

    Lee said the latest award reinforces URC’s commitment to becoming the “foremost sustainable food and beverage enterprise from the Philippines, that delight consumers around the world with good food choices”.URC produces iconic brands such as Great Taste, C2 Cool & Clean, Piattos, Maxx candy and Cream-O cookies, which have been part of Filipinos’ lives for decades. One of the country’s largest food and beverage manufacturers, URC also has significant, and growing, presence in ASEAN. Its leading regional brands include Fun-O, Tivoli and Lexus.

    Asiamoney, one of Asia’s leading financial publications has, for a third year in a row, named Universal Robina Corp. (URC) as the Philippines’ most outstanding company in the consumer staples sector in its Asia’s Outstanding Companies Poll. URC produces popular food and beverage brands such as Cream-O cookies, which are widely available in the region. 

  • Cinemalaya Calls For Entries For Its 2025 Edition 

    Fresh from its successful 19th edition, the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival now calls for submissions for its 2025 full-length category. The deadline for submissions is on or before 6pm on November 17, 2023. 

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    The country’s biggest independent film festival continues its pursuit of innovative and excellent filmmaking as it marks its 20th year of nurturing new independent filmmakers eager to make their mark in the film industry in 2025.  

    Those who are interested in submitting their entries may submit it ONLINE through https://forms.gle/UGr1ayAmASL2hSp98 or OFFLINE at the Film, Broadcast, and New Media Division office, located at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Annex Building, Vicente Sotto St., Pasay City.

    For online submissions, interested parties must submit the following requirements: the concept paper of the project containing the premise(s) of the film, the genre, the tagline, the key characters, and their descriptions in Filipino or English; a two-page synopsis/storyline of the film project; resume of the proponent/s; two (2) recent photos of proponent/s; and a sample of the work directed by the proponent.

    For offline submissions, participants should submit the duly accomplished 2025 Entry Form which can be downloaded from www.culturalcenter.gov.phor www.cinemalaya.org; concept paper; storyline, resume of the proponents and recent photos. Submit in six (6) copies in a long brown envelope properly labeled with the proponent’s name, title of film entry, and contact details. The sheets containing the concept paper must NOT bear the name of the proponent. Full scripts will not be accepted.

    Interested participants may submit a maximum of three entries. However, only one entry per proponent may be considered as a finalist. Works already in principal photography or post-production phase before JULY 2024 are disqualified, except for documentaries.

    Works that are attached to film and television productions, as well as those of local streaming platforms, are eligible for submission as long as said works are not commissioned projects but originated from the filmmaker as a proponent. Commissioned works from commercial platforms are disqualified for consideration.

    By FEBRUARY 2, 2024 (Friday), the Cinemalaya Competition Committee shall select 30 promising submissions, whose proponents will be invited to a pitching session for their respective projects. The initial selection would be narrowed down to 20 entries, whose proponents will undergo the Cinemalaya Film Lab, a three-month-long film-laboratory mentorship program which brings together resource persons from different aspects of filmmaking, from scriptwriting, directing, cinematography, performance, editing, production design, sound, music, production management, and promotion strategies.

    Since 2005, Cinemalaya has been committed to the development and promotion of Philippine independent film. At its core, it provides an avenue for the production of cinematic works of Filipino independent filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity. With its call for submissions for the 2025 full-length film competition, Cinemalaya continues to invigorate the Philippine film industry by developing a new breed of Filipino filmmakers. 

    For full mechanics, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and Tiktok.

  • It’s Reign-ing Cats and Dogs at Manila Prince Hotel

    Manila Prince Hotel, a premier hotel nestled in the heart of the City of Manila, is excited to announce its latest initiative to cater to the needs of all guests. The hotel is delighted to open its doors to registered pet cats and dogs, ensuring that their stay is as comfortable as that of their fur-parents. This step reflects the hotel’s commitment to providing exceptional hospitality and an inclusive experience that guarantees no family member is left out.

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    Starting 01 October 2023, guests can book pet-friendly rooms that are thoughtfully equipped to cater to their furry friends. These rooms feature a range of amenities including plush pet bedding, towel, and feeding bowls, kitty litter trays, and more. Protocols are in place to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene, assuring a safe and pleasant experience for all.

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    Beyond the enhanced room facilities, Manila Prince Hotel is also offering additional services tailored exclusively for its VIP (Very Important Pet) guests. This includes the provision of a dedicated pet park located at the al fresco area of the hotel. This spacious outdoor area allows furry guests to stretch their legs and enjoy outdoor playtime.

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    “Our decision to embrace a pet-friendly approach aligns with our commitment to cater to the evolving needs of our guests who consider their furry companions as integral family members,” says Marvin Kim Tan, Manila Prince Hotel’s director of sales and marketing.

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    For reservations or for more information about our pet-friendly policy, call (63 2) 5328-2222, email info@manilaprince.com, or visit www.manilaprince.com.

  • Savor Cebu’s Best: foodpanda’s Dine-in Now Welcomes Everyone!

    Attention, Cebuano foodies! Your gastronomic journey is about to get even more exciting. The online food and grocery giant, foodpanda, has extended its unique Dine-in program to all its users in the vibrant city of Cebu. A city renowned for its rich culinary heritage, this is your chance to amplify your dining experiences.

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    Initially, the Dine-in feature was a special treat for the loyal pandapro members. But with its burgeoning success since its introduction in June, foodpanda has decided to make this service accessible to everyone. All these mouthwatering experiences are just a tap away on your foodpanda app.

    Unlock a Gastronomic Adventure

    No more constraints! Whether you’re in the mood for local delights, international cuisine, or simply an exciting new dish to perk up your palette, the Dine-in program is here to cater to every whim. Let’s explore the top 3 delectable benefits of using foodpanda Dine-in:

    1. Discount on Your Total Bill
      Don’t miss out on this chance to embark on a delightful gastronomic adventure, complete with up to 25% discounts on your total bill! Foodies can now relish their favorite dishes from top-notch restaurants while enjoying a pocket-friendly experience. With every dine-in order made through the foodpanda app, you’ll be delighted to see the savings add up, making it an unbeatable dining choice.
    2. Savor Your Favorite Restaurants    
      What’s even more exciting is that Dine-in offers an impressive lineup of your favorite restos in Cebu, ensuring an extraordinary dining experience that will leave you craving for more. From local eateries serving authentic delicacies to international hotspots offering global cuisines, foodpanda Dine-in has got it all covered!
    3. Seamless Payment Method – Know Your Discount and Pay through the App
      Gone are the days of awkwardly splitting bills or waiting for the check to arrive. With, “Redeem & Pay”,  the payment process becomes a breeze because you can simply pay through the app without any hassle. This seamless payment method enhances the overall dining experience and saves you precious time.
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    Here’s how it works. Search for a restaurant deal that catches your eye.

    • Click “Redeem & Pay” to avail up to 25% discounts on your total bill.
    • Input the original amount of your bill, and the app will automatically display the discounted amount.
    • Click “Confirm” to proceed.
    • Double-check the details and click “Redeem & Pay.”
    • Choose your preferred payment method.
    • Voilà! You’re all set to relish your meal while enjoying exclusive savings.

    “We are thrilled to introduce the Dine-in program to all foodpanda users in Cebu,” said Patricia Jacinto, director of growth at foodpanda Philippines. “With a wide array of top-notch restaurants to choose from, combined with the convenience of the redeem-to-pay feature, we are dedicated to catering to the diverse tastes and preferences of our valued customers.”

    “This also perfectly aligns with our brand philosophy, ‘Live like a panda,’ which encourages people to pursue what matters to them. With this new move, we can bring joy to the palates of Cebuano food enthusiasts, providing them with unforgettable moments and culinary delights.”

    Ready for your next unforgettable meal? Hop over to the foodpanda app and tap the Dine-in feature. Or, for a broader view, swing by foodpanda.ph.

    For the latest news and delicious updates, make sure to like and follow foodpanda on their official social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tiktok and Youtube. Download the foodpanda app today or visit https://www.foodpanda.ph to experience the delight of Dine-in.

  • BGC’s Culinary Destination: CCA Manila’s Modern Campus Awaits

    In the bustling heart of Bonifacio Global City (BGC), the renowned Center for Culinary Arts (CCA) Manila has unveiled its latest jewel: a state-of-the-art culinary campus. This sophisticated establishment offers more than just a new location; it promises an immersive experience for culinary visionaries. With its central location in the University of the Philippines BGC campus for professional studies, students gain not only world-class education but also a prime spot amidst BGC’s vibrant community.

    “Our new home is located inside the academic enclave of the University of the Philippines BGC campus for professional studies,” said Badjie Trinidad, President of CCA Manila. “Since this area is also within the University Parkway where international schools are located, our students will have easy and safe access to top destinations such as restaurants, malls, parks, offices, and residential buildings.” 

    Culinary Study Supported with State-of-the-Art Facilities

    1. CCA Manilas 500sqm grand kitchen has 45 individual stations to cater to each student. It is also the largest working kitchen in the metro.
    CCA Manila’s 500sqm grand kitchen has 45 individual stations to cater to each student. It is also the largest working kitchen in the metro.

    Aside from the kitchen studio, CCA Manila in BGC features a grand kitchen laboratory with 45 individual cooking stations, ensuring that each student has a dedicated space for hands-on learning.

    This hands-on approach, which CCA Manila has been known for, instills kitchen independence, enabling students to explore their culinary creativity while mastering essential techniques.

    3. CCA Manila in BGC embraces technological trends in the culinary industry housing the latest kitchen tools and equipment.
    CCA Manila in BGC embraces technological trends in the culinary industry, housing the latest kitchen tools and equipment.

    CCA Manila in BGC also embraces technological trends in the culinary industry, housing the latest model of the Rational iCombi Pro, induction hobs, griddles and ovens, sous vide machines, and even smoke guns. All these modern equipment and tools are for the benefit of students, and are made available through collaborations with esteemed industry partners such as Rational, Modello Kitchen, Breville, Catering Depot, Blizzard, SMEG, Nacionale Bladeworks, and ChefWorks.

    Diverse Programs to Ignite Culinary Passion

    2. CCA Manila students with a chef instructor
    CCA Manila students with a chef instructor

    At the core of CCA Manila’s curriculum is an array of comprehensive courses catering to culinary enthusiasts of all levels. The flagship program, the Diploma in Culinary Arts and Technology Management, is proudly accredited by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation (ACFEF). The two-year program offers a holistic understanding of culinary techniques, kitchen management, and the art of gastronomy. Led by seasoned chef-instructors and industry experts, this program equips students with skills, creativity, and leadership necessary for success in the culinary world.Students of this program may take further studies with the University of Asia & the Pacific (UA&P) to earn a BS in Entrepreneurial Management Major in Culinary Arts or a Diploma in Culinary Agripreneurship in partnership with the University of the Philippines, Los Baños. 

    4. CCA Manila students during class in the grand kitchen
    CCA Manila students during class in the grand kitchen

    “CCA Manila is a pioneer in introducing programs that build a strong foundation for future chefs. We are proud of our graduates who are now food entrepreneurs, restaurateurs, and heads of kitchens of top hotels, cruise ships, commissaries,” said Trinidad. “CCA Manila graduates have truly conquered the world one kitchen at a time.”     

    Honoring the rich Filipino culinary heritage, CCA Manila also offers the “Fundamentals in Filipino Cuisine,” which bridges tradition and innovation, empowering students to reinvent classic dishes while preserving authentic flavors. 

    “CCA Manila is a champion of Filipino cuisine, as shown how we have continuously promoted Filipino ingredients and techniques, and proved that our chefs can be at par with the very best in the world,” said Trinidad. 

    For those seeking focused skill enhancement, CCA Manila’s short courses offer intensive workshops on baking, pastry arts, international cuisines, wine and beverage, digital marketing, and food entrepreneurship. The short courses are ideal for busy professionals who work on weekdays in BGC and are aspiring chefs during weekends. 

    There is also the Professional Chef Course, a six-month self-paced program in partnership with Rouxbe, the world’s largest online culinary school. The course provides certification and internship opportunities.

    Culinary Innovation and Industry Partnerships
    CCA Manila’s commitment to culinary excellence goes beyond its curriculum. The institution takes pride in its role as a culinary consultant in the industry, as seen in its recent partnership with the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice), and International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) to develop recipes using the Malusog rice. Customized training programs, such as the Plant Forward Cuisine course for Guang Ming College and seed-to-plate courses with Urban Farms in BGC, illustrate CCA’s flexibility in addressing industry demands.

    As CCA Manila will soon mark 27 years of culinary education excellence, it looks ahead to exciting prospects. There will be an upcoming “Future of Food” conference in November that will gather industry leaders to discuss trends and opportunities in the F&B sector. This conference aligns with CCA Manila’s vision to remain at the forefront of culinary education, adapting to emerging trends while preserving timeless traditions.

    Embark on Your Culinary Journey
    CCA Manila’s gleaming BGC establishment beckons all – from budding chefs to gourmet enthusiasts. As Badjie Trinidad eloquently puts it, “CCA Manila’s new site in BGC marks a significant milestone in the world of culinary education. Whether you aspire to become a professional chef or simply want to impress your loved ones with new food creations, CCA Manila welcomes you to start your journey, guided by the expertise of our faculty and the modern resources available at our new facility.”

    For inquiries and enrollment details, please visit the official website at http://www.cca-manila.edu.ph. To get in touch, reach out via email at talktous@cca-manila.edu.ph or follow CCA Manila on Facebook and Instagram (@ccamanila).

  • 3rd Annual TikTok Awards Philippines 2023: Recognizing Filipino Digital Excellence

    Every year, TikTok Philippines honors the vibrant Filipino digital space by celebrating its brightest stars. The upcoming TikTok Awards Philippines 2023 is a testament to the platform’s dedication to fostering creativity and authenticity.

    An Evening of Recognition and Inspiration

    Leading the evening’s festivities are dynamic duo Jaz Reyes and Mikee Reyes. They’ll guide audiences through a night brimming with Filipino pride, showcasing outstanding performances by renowned artists such as BINI, Lola Amour, KAIA, and more.

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    TikTok continues to be the platform where Filipinos display their innovative prowess. At the heart of the awards night are two significant categories – “People’s Choice Category”, where users can vote for their favorite creators and Judges’ Pick Category”, where a panel of judges will be selecting the set of winners.

    Here’s the full list of the nominees under the “People’s Choice Category” in the 2023 TikTok Awards PH:

    Rising Star of the Year

    Popular Creator of the Year

    Celebrity Creator of the Year

    Song of the Year

    • Ikaw Lang by Nobita
    • LDR by Shoti
    • Paligoy-ligoy by Nadine Lustre
    • Uhaw by Dilaw
    • Gento by SB19
    • Muli by Ace Banzuelo
    • Na Na NA by BINI
    • Jopay by Mayonnaise

    Livestreamer of the Year

    TikTok Shop Creator of the Year

    TikTok Shop Brand Owner of the Year

    Meanwhile, these are the special awards under the Judges’ Pick Category”:

    Entertainment & Media

    1. Entertainment Creator of the Year
    2. Breakthrough Entertainment Partner of the Year
    3. News Publisher of the Year

    Lifestyle & Education

    • Beauty Creator of the Year
    • Fashion Creator of the Year
    • Foodie of the Year
    • Educator of the Year

    Sports & Gaming

    • Gaming Creator of the Year
    • Sports Creator of the Year

    Community

    1. Dance Creator of the Year
    2. Comedy Creator  of the Year
    3. Effects House Creator  of the Year

    Special Awards

    TikTok Creator of the Year 

    Mark Your Calendars!

    The TikTok Awards Philippines will broadcast live on Saturday, September 30, at 10:45 PM (PST). Apart from the TikTok platform, enthusiasts can also tune in on YouTube or TV5 Channel.

    Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to celebrate the Philippines’ digital renaissance. Join in cheering for the creators who’ve shaped our online experiences. And if you’re yet to jump on the TikTok bandwagon, there’s no time like the present – available on iOS and Android devices.

  • Save Big with Groceries Day: foodpanda’s Spectacular Grocery Sale Happening on August 18 to 20!

    Get ready for the most anticipated event of the year as online food and grocery platform foodpanda unveils Groceries Day – an extraordinary three-day shopping extravaganza happening from August 18 – 20, 2023. This is the ultimate opportunity for online grocery aficionados who know how to work hard and shop smart. Whether you’re an existing foodpanda app user or a fresh face in the foodpanda family, Groceries Day is your ticket to indulge in an unmatched experience of incredible deals and discounts on a wide range of grocery items, exclusively available on the foodpanda app.

    PH August Groceries Pandamart Day SoMe FRESH KV

    “We are thrilled to announce Groceries Day, the biggest grocery sale of the season. This event is our way of giving back to our valued customers, offering them unparalleled savings and convenience in their grocery shopping experience,” says Danielle Eleazar, Head of Marketing at foodpanda Philippines. 

    Groceries Day offers customers incredible deals and discounts across an assortment of grocery items on the foodpanda app. This fantastic opportunity also allows customers to revel in big savings, with discounts of up to 70% and an additional P300 discount using the code: GROCERDAY.

    In a unique offering, a bunch of your favorite brands have come together to make Groceries Day an unforgettable experience. Some of these awesome brands are Selecta and PepsiCo, serving up treats like Selecta’s Supreme Best Seller ice creams, Ruffles, Cheetos, FritoLay, Lay’s Truffle, and Quaker Oats. Not to forget, Nature Spring, URC, Colgate and Palmolive are also part of this exciting lineup.

    “In today’s fast-paced world, we understand the struggles that come with traditional grocery shopping – the long queues, crowded aisles, and the endless search for elusive items. We know how precious your time is, and that’s why we’ve meticulously crafted Groceries Day to be the ultimate solution for all your grocery needs. Empower yourself as you navigate through our thoughtfully curated selection of products, each one chosen with your needs in mind. More than just an event, Groceries Day is a transformative journey into a new era of grocery shopping. Our unwavering mission is to arm you with the tools to shop smart, all from the comfort of your home.” adds Eleazar.

    During this three-day extravaganza, customers can expect an array of exceptional deals and discounts, so they can save up on their grocery shopping. Whether you are stocking up on everyday essentials, planning a special meal for your family, or simply looking to save money, Groceries Day is the perfect occasion.

    So mark your calendars for August 18 – 20, 2023, and join us on the foodpanda app to embark on a one-of-a-kind grocery shopping journey. 

    For more information about Groceries Day and the incredible offers available, visit https://www.foodpanda.ph/, where you’ll find a complete list of partner merchants and top necessities that will be part of this spectacular event. Also like and follow the official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tiktok and Youtube.

  • BPI welcomes Anne Curtis as newest brand partner

    The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) formally welcomes the country’s Multimedia Superstar, Anne Curtis, as the Bank’s newest brand partner.

    As a long-time BPI client, Anne is excited to share her own experiences with the Bank and to introduce its new products and services.

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    “BPI has always been a reliable bank throughout my journey. It has allowed me to do more and be more, which is why I want to share my experience with others,” Anne says.

    Do More with BPI

    Anne’s journey with BPI serves as the springboard of the “Do More with BPI” campaign, wherein the Bank enables Filipinos to do more in life and fulfill their dreams. With its 172-year history of banking excellence, BPI offers services that transcend financial solutions and empower people to go further and achieve greater pursuits.

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    “BPI is the Filipinos’ partner at every point in their lives. The Bank shares their values and anticipates their needs by coming up with the best solutions crafted from years of experience. With a comprehensive line-up of products and services, BPI is able to help Filipinos realize their dreams,” says BPI President and CEO TG Limcaoco.

    As of June this year, BPI had 6.2 million clients enrolled in its digital channels, with an open banking infrastructure providing access to 2,200 products and services by over 100 partners. 

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    Among the Bank’s latest digital innovations are the new BPI App, where retail customers can transact in seconds and avail new products and services in just minutes. Soon, they will be able to get AI-powered financial insights on their spending and saving habits. For SME clients, meanwhile, BPI recently launched the Ka-Negosyo online loan application portal — a one-stop shop that allows entrepreneurs to learn about and avail of the Bank’s SME loan products.

    On top of its digitalization efforts, BPI has embarked on an internal customer obsession program. Under the program, the Bank assigned customer delight officers to help empower frontliners and created agile teams to address common customer pain points. With these measures in place, BPI looks forward to serving more customers and process more transactions.

    “Do More with BPI” elevates financial inclusion through digitalization and customer obsession. In the words of BPI’s President and CEO, TG Limcaoco, “This demonstrates our unwavering dedication to maintain the deep trust our clients have in us and build a better Philippines—one family, one community at a time.”

  • Filipino families poised to overcome rising price levels this back-to-school season

    With the back-to-school season nearing, Philippine youth groups are questioning the impending tuition increase in select state universities, colleges, and private schools nationwide. This fee hike looms even while the country’s inflation rate remains high at 6.1%, as the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported in June 2023.

    Education Photo from Freepik

    As more and more Filipino families feel the weight of the tuition hike, the Philippines’ #1 e-wallet app, GCash, offers several solutions to make paying for schooling-related fees more affordable and less stressful.

    “We understand that with the upcoming school year’s tuition hike paired in parallel with the country’s high inflation rates, Filipino families are starting to view back-to-school expenses as an added struggle. It is exactly why we continue to maintain our lending solutions to be as accessible as possible,” Zo Canaria, Head of Growth Marketing at FUSE Lending Inc. underscored. “The more solutions we can offer to ease Filipinos of financial burden, the more lives we can help elevate.”

    The Philippines has been accustomed to the stigma that comes with borrowing money. In fact, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ 2021 Financial Inclusion Report found that 50% of Filipino adults perceive borrowing from formal institutions to be “difficult” due to income and documentation requirements upon application.

    GCash is working to change this belief by offering readily-available lending solutions for different financial needs, allowing users to view loans as an effective tool in achieving their goals while staying within their means.

    As of the first quarter of 2023, 2.8 million Filipino users have loaned via GCash, 35% of which are business owners who use the loan to grow their businesses. Still, it remains to be a little-known fact that aspiring borrowers may also apply for a loan to fund their or their children’s education.

    Here are some of the ways that GCash’s borrowing solutions, may be used for schooling-related purposes:

    Affording tuition and school-related fees via GLoan

    With the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA) expecting a tuition hike average of 3-4% in some private schools this year, parents and sponsors might opt to secure a loan to continue funding their child’s education.

    With GLoan, eligible borrowers may loan up to Php 125,000, instantly sent to their e-wallet within 24 hours. Canaria emphasized, “Education is essential, and people loan for it all the time — whether through friends and family, banks, or even academic offerings. What makes GLoan superior to all other options is its ease of access and flexibility upon application, while still leveraging on the credibility and the security of the GCash app.”

    Embracing hybrid learning with the right tools via GGives

    To keep up with the times, many schools have also transitioned to a more modern way of learning. In fact, the Department of Education in a recent statement said that they are in search of ways to promote the use of technology in education, suggesting the long-term implementation of digital or hybrid learning arrangements. Through GGives, borrowers may acquire new laptops and tablets in over 110,000 merchants, and pay for it in installments. Canaria shared, “Materials that can effectively support students’ schooling experience have transformed. We understand that this is a costly shift for most Filipinos and funds for gadgets are hard to come by, and this is one of the reasons why GGives specifically allows partial payments of up to 24 months with zero down payments.”

    Paying for supplies and day-to-day essentials via GCredit

    Even as the inflation rate eased as reported by PSA, Filipinos are still experiencing the effects of the Philippine peso weakening at a concerning rate. This has made careful budgeting for school supplies, snacks, allowance, and daily commute fees more difficult.

    GCredit, Powered by CIMB, has a readily available credit line built to support eligible users in times like these, enabling borrowers with a limit of up to Php 50,000 at a pro-rated interest rate. Canaria said, “Because of price hikes everywhere, the feeling of ‘being stuck in a tight spot’ is becoming more and more pronounced nowadays. With classes either back to face-to-face or transitioning to hybrid, GCredit can help users manage daily expenses more confidently. It has a wide range of merchants for every need, from lifestyle and food to transportation and groceries.”

    “We at GCash have always believed that education is a right for all Filipinos, not just a privilege, and these lending solutions are our way of making this right more apparent for our fellow countrymen. As the leading e-wallet app in the market, providing easy access to extra funds and empowering users with resources that bolster their growth is our duty to the 70 million users we serve,” Canaria concluded.

    To be eligible for GLoan, GGives, and GCredit, users must have a fully verified GCash profile and must continue using GCash and its services, such as maintaining a high wallet balance, regularly cashing in and paying your dues early or on time.

    Access GCredit through your GCash dashboard or find it under “Borrow.” No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery! Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!

  • TPB’s PHITEX program wins National Tourism Initiative of the Year

    The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), the marketing and promotions arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), was recently honored with the National Tourism Initiative of the Year-Philippines award in recognition of its conduct of the 2022 Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX), the country’s largest government-organized travel trade event. The Gov Media Awards, presented by Gov Media Magazine and held in Singapore, recognizes the most outstanding government projects and initiatives in the Asia Pacific region. This year’s entries were evaluated by an elite panel of experts, including leaders from World Bank and ADB.

    Sec Frasco and COO Nograles during PHITEX 2022

    “We are one with the TPB in appreciation of this international recognition for PHITEX, which reflects the successful collaboration of government and the private sector under the shared tourism governance envisioned by the Marcos Administration,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, who is also Chairman of the TPB Board said on the  award received by the DOT’s marketing arm.

    “This recognition is an honor for us at the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines and is a triumph that we dedicate to all tourism stakeholders who continually work hard to contribute to the growth of the tourism industry and economy. This will only spur us in our commitment to making the Philippines a tourism powerhouse in Asia,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles. 

    Gov Media stated that TPB’s remarkable organization of PHITEX was lauded for its role in promoting responsible tourism and driving growth in the Philippine tourism industry. The projects awarded serve as catalysts for transformative change and have significant implications for the well-being of billions of people living in Asia and beyond. 

    Since its establishment in 1996, PHITEX has played a vital role in fostering business partnerships and showcasing the diverse array of Philippine tourism destinations.  In 2022, PHITEX adopted the theme “Embracing Responsible Tourism” to emphasize the significance of safe, smart, and sustainable travel practices. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, PHITEX successfully hosted over 116 foreign buyers, comprised of 53 physical attendees and 63 virtual participants from 32 countries that actively participated with 206 Philippine sellers composed of 96 physical attendees and 110 virtual participants during the Travel Exchange (TRAVEX). 

    Said participants represented travel agencies, tour operators, hotels and resorts, MICE operators, and airlines. Key markets such as Korea, Malaysia, and China were well-represented, with 77% of buyers coming from source markets and 39% from opportunity markets. 

    The fruitful discussions in TRAVEX generated an estimated revenue of Php 190,143,651.00 (US$3.496m) based on the sales lead forms submitted by the Philippine sellers.

    TPB has announced that the next PHITEX will be held in September this year in Cebu. This year’s event will feature a two-day Face-to-Face Travel Exchange (TRAVEX), PHITEX Educational Program (PEP), and Pre and Post-Event Tours for Buyers, targeting quality buyers and sellers.