Freelancers Share What They Wish They Knew When They Were Starting Out

Manila, Philippines – What people don’t always see about freelancing is the reality of irregular income, delayed payments, and tax fees that chip away at their earnings before it even gets to them. Here’s how freelancers Andrea Sumida, Founder and Creative Strategist of Kohi Social, and Lyn Cepillo, a content creator and social media manager, work around this challenge.

Build your budget around your most conservative income month.

“When I first started freelancing, one of my biggest struggles was treating every payment like stable income.” Andrea shares, “Since projects and payments were irregular, there were months that felt abundant and others that felt very tight. I also underestimated how important budgeting, emergency funds, and cash flow management were as a freelancer.”

Many long-time freelancers encourage building one’s monthly budget around their lowest-income month. This way, it creates a financial safeguard and ensures essential living expenses like rent, groceries, and bills are still covered during slow periods. Anything earned beyond that can then go towards personal rewards, savings, or even investments.

Be more intentional about how and where your money moves.

The process of managing money - especially USD payments - has become a financially draining process. Freelancers receive payments through one platform, convert currencies through another, then transfer funds again to a local bank, this time just to access their earnings.

“Freelancers mostly think it’s just 1-3%, but when you actually think about it, like when it seems to accumulate, you’ll realize how big it actually is,” Lyn points out. “Imagine transferring platform to platform, and each platform has its own different conversion and transfer fees. They look at the percentages and think it’s small, but with the current economy, each deduction could be at least one meal, which is a big thing.”

To help address this, Lyn and Andrea use the GCash Virtual US Account, which removes the need to move money across multiple platforms. Once USD is deposited, users have control over when to convert it. After withdrawing to their wallet, users can pay bills, save, and even invest all within the platform.

As Andrea explains, “For me, tools like GCash help simplify day-to-day transactions, bills, transfers, and even budgeting. It removes a lot of friction from managing finances, especially when you’re handling multiple projects or clients at once.”

Freelancers can start using the GCash Virtual US Account by simply following these steps:

• Open the GCash app. Tap US Accounts in the Explore the App section
• Tap Continue and verify your information
• Complete your account creation

Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Adopts GCash Solutions to Streamline Student Payments and Financial Assistance Disbursements

Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) and GCash have formalized a partnership to bring digital payment and disbursement solutions to PUP's more than 20 campuses nationwide. With the rollout to start in School Year 2026–2027, the initiative allows students to pay school fees and receive financial assistance using GCash, enabling faster, cashless, and more accessible services to communities nationwide.

The collaboration was formally celebrated at a ceremonial launch held at the Mateo Conference Room of PUP's main campus in Sta. Mesa, Manila. The event was led by PUP President Dr. Manuel "Bong" Muhi, Executive Vice President for Planning and Finance Alberto C. Guillo, and Director, Funds Management Office Catherine "Cathy" Oposa, who championed the collaboration from the ground up.

Through the partnership, students will be able to use GCash for scan-to-pay transactions at all 20 campuses, online web payments for a seamless enrollment-to-payment experience, and GBills for Open University and certification fees. Five thousand GCash cards will also be distributed to scholars, athletes, and student representatives to support cashless disbursements of scholarships and financial assistance.

As the most populous state university in the Philippines, currently serving over 106,500 students, PUP has built its reputation on accessible, affordable education, offering free tuition across all its campuses nationwide. Under President Muhi, the university has made digital transformation a cornerstone of its operations, with a centralized enrollment portal that positions PUP to deploy integrated solutions at scale.

“Through this partnership, the PUP community will benefit from accessible digital financial services such as Scan-to-Pay, Bills Payment, Mobile Payment Solutions, and Fund Disbursement Services, promoting faster, safer, and more convenient transactions for the Iskolar ng Bayan,” Dr. Manuel M. Muhi, President of PUP, shared.

“Partnering with PUP is a meaningful step in helping make digital financial services more accessible to students across the country. Through this collaboration, we hope to support the university’s commitment to innovation by providing solutions that make payments and financial assistance disbursements faster, safer, and more convenient for the entire PUP community. At GCash, we believe that empowering students with accessible digital tools also helps prepare them for a more digitally connected future,” said Cleo Celeste Santos, GCash Head of B2B Sales.

Further, partnership reflects a broader push to advance financial inclusion among young Filipinos. Students no longer have to contend with long lines, time-consuming trips, or manual paperwork. With the integration of GCash digital financial tools and solutions, essential campus services are made faster and more accessible for communities across the country.

By bringing its digital finance ecosystem directly into campuses across the country, GCash continues to work with schools and organizations nationwide to expand access to digital financial solutions, creating services that are more seamless, more accessible, and more in tune with the way young Filipinos live and learn today.

For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.

Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 Showcases the Future of Web3 Innovation in Southeast Asia

The Philippines once again cemented its position as one of Southeast Asia’s emerging blockchain hubs as Philippine Blockchain Week (PBW) 2026 successfully gathered industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, and technology enthusiasts from June 19 to 21 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

The three-day event highlighted the rapid evolution of blockchain technology and Web3 applications, providing attendees with a comprehensive look at how decentralized technologies are reshaping industries across the region. From financial services and enterprise solutions to digital identity and public infrastructure, PBW 2026 demonstrated the growing impact of blockchain in real-world applications.

One of the major highlights of the event was the Official Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony, which formally inaugurated the PBW 2026 Innovation Expo. The ceremony was led by prominent government officials, Web3 pioneers, and industry captains who emphasized the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in accelerating digital transformation. The expo featured groundbreaking blockchain platforms, fintech solutions, tokenization projects, and next-generation digital infrastructure designed to support the future digital economy.

Another key attraction was the "Decoded: Deployed" Main Conference, where global thought leaders discussed how blockchain technology is moving beyond theoretical concepts into practical implementation. Panel discussions explored topics such as financial inclusion, decentralized finance (DeFi), digital asset adoption, and secure data ownership. Experts shared insights on how Web3 technologies are helping underserved communities gain access to financial services while enabling businesses to build more transparent and efficient systems.

The event also hosted the highly anticipated Global Creator & Influencer Summit, bringing together digital entrepreneurs, content creators, and social media personalities. Discussions centered on the future of the creator economy, exploring how blockchain-based platforms, digital ownership, and tokenized communities are empowering creators to build sustainable revenue streams. Attendees also enjoyed the vibrant Celebrity Bazaar, which added excitement and energy to the convention floor.

Complementing the conference and expo was the ALT+TAB Gaming & Music Festival, where technology, gaming, and entertainment converged. Visitors experienced immersive esports competitions, interactive Web3 gaming showcases, and live performances from popular artists including 1st One, Ameurfina III, PRIMO.ph, Donnalyn, and KAIA.

As blockchain adoption continues to accelerate across Southeast Asia, Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 served as a powerful platform for innovation, collaboration, and education. The event showcased how the Philippines is playing an increasingly important role in shaping the future of Web3 while fostering an ecosystem where technology, creativity, and entrepreneurship can thrive.

Smart Fires up New Palawan Site, Boosts Bayanihan SIM Program

PLDT’s wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc (Smart) recently fired up a new site in San Vicente, Palawan, in continued support of the government’s thrust to bring reliable internet access closer to more Filipinos in last-mile communities.

“By bringing fast and reliable mobile connectivity to towns like San Vicente in Palawan, we enable more Filipinos in underserved communities to access opportunities in education, livelihood, and innovation,” said Menardo G. Jimenez, PLDT chief operating officer and network head.

“This milestone also highlights the power of strengthened collaboration with our government partners, so that together, we can deliver meaningful connectivity solutions that accelerate inclusive development,” added Jimenez, who is also PLDT’s representative to the Presidential Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC).

The new tower is also expected to boost the government’s Bayanihan SIM initiative, which provides free SIMs with mobile data to Filipinos in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) like San Vicente, which is located around 500 kilometers southwest of Manila.

At Old Caruray Elementary School, Smart and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) distributed about 1,500 SIM cards with prepaid load to government-identified beneficiaries, including students. Under the partnership, beneficiaries will receive 25GB of data per month for 12 months, fully subsidized by the government.

PLDT also turned over a School-in-a-Bag package courtesy of PLDT-Smart Foundation to Old Caruray Elementary School, represented by principal Alma Dalipe. A portable digital classroom, each School-in-a-Bag package includes a laptop for the teacher, 10 tablets pre-loaded with DepEd curriculum-based learning materials and interactive educational applications, a Smart Bro LTE Pocket Wi-Fi device, and expandable storage.

Also present at the tower launching ceremonies were Palawan Gov. Amy Roa Alvarez, Palawan 1st District Rep. Rosalie A. Salvame, San Vicente, Palawan Mayor Ramir R. Pablico, and Brgy Chair Bernardo M. Borja, officials from the DICT, National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), and Department of Education, and PLDT Enterprise executives Ruby Montoya and Euan Toralballa.

The Bayanihan SIM program is a key initiative supporting the government’s push for nationwide digital connectivity. It is enabled by Smart's mobile network and is supported by PLDT's fiber infrastructure, the country's most extensive. The PLDT Group's continued investment in enhancing its integrated fixed and wireless network is part of the Group’s broader commitment to deliver a leveled-up customer experience across the country.

The Pambansang Litson Manok Is Finally Back on Foodpanda

MANILA, Philippines — Some Filipino cravings never go out of style, and Andok's is one of them.

After years of anticipation from customers, Andok's officially relaunched on foodpanda, making its signature litson manok, liempo, Dokito meals, and other crowd favorites available through the everyday app Filipinos already know and use.

The relaunch followed years of strong consumer demand. Despite not being available on the platform for eight years, Andok's consistently remained one of the most searched merchants on foodpanda. Customers continued looking for the brand on the app, turning the search bar into an unofficial wish list and proving just how much Filipinos wanted easier access to their favorite meals.

Excitement surrounding the partnership grew even before launch day. Teasers released by both brands sparked widespread conversation online, generating thousands of reactions, shares, and comments from eager fans who quickly speculated about a possible collaboration.

The anticipation culminated in Pista ng Sarap, a celebration that marked the official launch of Andok's on foodpanda. Inspired by the Filipino tradition of gathering around good food, the campaign highlighted the role both brands play in bringing convenience and enjoyment to everyday moments, family celebrations, and spontaneous salo-salo occasions.

"At foodpanda, we're always looking for ways to bring customers closer to the brands and meals they love. The excitement surrounding Andok's launch reflects the strong connection Filipinos have with familiar food favorites, and we're happy to make those everyday cravings more accessible through the platform," said Patricia Jacinto, Marketing and Growth Director of foodpanda Philippines.

For Andok's, the collaboration is about meeting customers where they are while continuing to deliver the familiar flavors they know and love. “As modern lifestyles keep Filipinos busier than ever, the partnership bridges the gap between nostalgic comfort and modern convenience,” said Maverick Leonardo T. Javier, President of Andok's Litson Corporation. “By integrating a beloved household name into foodpanda’s nationwide network, satisfying a sudden craving for familiar favorites is now just a few taps away.”

The partnership reinforces foodpanda's strategy of broadening its merchant network to better serve evolving customer preferences. By bringing more household-name brands onto the platform, foodpanda continues to deliver greater value, variety, and convenience to Filipinos nationwide.

To keep the celebration going, foodpanda users can enjoy special offers on their Andok's favorites for a limited time. Just in time for Father's Day, customers can get 50% off Andok's signature Litson Manok, with discounts of up to ₱250 from June 20 to 21. The festivities continue until June 30 with 30% off selected bestsellers, including the Spicy Dokito Burger, BBQ Liempo Meal, Dokibab Rice Meal, BBQ Liempo Stick, and Litson Manok, with discounts of up to ₱150. Both have no minimum order value.

Hungry for Andok's? Open the foodpanda app today and order your favorite litson manok, liempo, and Dokito meals. With more branches continuously going live nationwide, enjoying the Pambansang Litson Manok has never been easier.