Security Bank Caps 2025 Expansion With 377 Branches Nationwide

Makati, Philippines – Security Bank Corporation capped off 2025 with the opening of five new branches in December, bringing its nationwide branch network to 377 branches and reinforcing its commitment to making banking more accessible and inclusive across the country.

The December openings mark a strong finish to a year of sustained expansion, reflecting Security Bank’s continued focus on bringing BetterBanking closer to more Filipinos, supporting households, entrepreneurs, and growing communities nationwide.

In Luzon, the Bank opened new branches in Guagua, Pampanga, and Batangas City Highway, strengthening its presence in high-growth corridors serving both residential communities and key transport routes. In Metro Manila, the opening of Caloocan–Camarin enhanced access to banking services in a strategically located and rapidly developing area.

In the Visayas, new branches in Calbayog and Cebu–Mahi further extend the Bank’s reach to communities that support local enterprises, regional trade, and a growing base of individual and SME clients.

“This month’s branch openings are yet another affirmation of our unwavering commitment to customer-centricity. It is a deliberate investment in what truly matters: the needs, convenience, and aspirations of our clients,” said Leslie Cham, Executive Vice President and Branch Banking Head at Security Bank.

As its network grows, Security Bank continues to elevate the in-branch experience. Each new location is designed to meet a wide range of customer needs—from everyday transactions to long-term financial planning—while seamlessly integrating with the Bank’s digital channels.

For more information on Security Bank’s products, services, and branch locations, visit www.securitybank.com or follow Security Bank on social media.

Security Bank Advances Sustainable Development Across the Philippines in 2025

In line with its mission to enrich lives, empower businesses, and build communities sustainably, Security Bank intensified its corporate social responsibility initiatives in 2025, delivering meaningful programs that created lasting impact across the Philippines. Through a strong focus on livelihood development, education, disaster response, culture, and environmental protection, the bank demonstrated its commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth.

Strengthening livelihoods remained a cornerstone of Security Bank’s community development efforts. In Aklan, the bank provided cacao seedlings to 40 local farmers, helping them diversify income sources and build long-term agricultural sustainability. Beyond material support, Security Bank also mentored 980 families nationwide, equipping them with financial literacy, entrepreneurial skills, and practical guidance to improve household resilience and economic stability. These initiatives directly contributed to empowering grassroots communities and supporting micro-level economic growth.

Security Bank also played a vital role in disaster response and recovery. In 2025, the bank extended aid to 661 families affected by natural disasters, providing timely assistance to help them rebuild and recover. This proactive approach underscored the institution’s commitment to standing with communities during times of crisis and ensuring that recovery efforts are both compassionate and sustainable.

Education continued to be a major priority for Security Bank. The institution donated a total of 901 classrooms to 153 public schools across the country, significantly improving learning environments for thousands of students. Complementing infrastructure support, Security Bank also provided free eye care services to 1,170 students, addressing a critical yet often overlooked barrier to effective learning. These education initiatives reinforced the bank’s belief that access to quality education is fundamental to long-term national development.

Beyond economic and educational programs, Security Bank actively supported culture and environmental sustainability. Cultural engagement programs reached more than 300 artists, helping preserve local heritage while fostering creative expression. On the environmental front, the bank planted 940 mangrove seedlings as part of a broader goal to plant 10,000 seedlings, contributing to coastal protection, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience.

Through these comprehensive initiatives in 2025, Security Bank strengthened institutions, expanded opportunities, and built stronger, more resilient communities. By aligning business purpose with social and environmental responsibility, the bank continues to play a meaningful role in driving sustainable development across the Philippines.

GCash Empowers Over 2,000 NMSMEs at TindaNow Mindanao Summit 2025

In partnership with the Local Government of Tagum City, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), TESDA, and the Tagum City Council of Women Foundation Inc. (TCCWFI), GCash brought together more than 2,000 nano, micro, small, and medium enterprises (NMSMEs) at the TindaNow Mindanao Summit 2025. As the country’s leading finance superapp and largest cashless ecosystem, GCash used this landmark event to introduce digital innovations designed to strengthen and scale local businesses—from smarter operations through GCash for Business (G4B), to expanded income opportunities via the enhanced GCash Pera Outlet Plus, and accessible financing through Fuse Financing Inc., its lending arm.

The summit focused on providing NMSMEs with practical, easy-to-adopt tools that support growth in the digital marketplace. One of the key highlights was the launch of the upgraded GCash Pera Outlet Plus, which transforms sari-sari stores and small retailers into community financial hubs. Through this platform, store owners can earn additional income by offering cash-in, cash-out, load, and bill payment services, enabling them to serve as vital access points for financial services in their neighborhoods.

Businesses also gained access to responsible and transparent lending through Fuse Financing Inc. Guided by the belief that credit should help rather than burden entrepreneurs, Fuse offers structured loan products meant to support inventory, operations, and business expansion. This provides a safer alternative to predatory lending, which continues to be a challenge for many small business owners.

The summit's relevance is underscored by the economic landscape. According to DTI’s 2023 data, MSMEs represent 99.63% of all registered businesses in the Philippines. In Mindanao alone, these enterprises generated over 986,000 jobs, yet access to formal credit remains limited. As of March 2025, MSME loans accounted for just 4.63% of banks’ total lending—far below the mandated 10 percent. Through platforms like GCash Pera Outlet Plus, and Fuse loans, entrepreneurs can better manage finances and pursue sustainable growth.

Government officials and GCash executives emphasized the importance of digital inclusion and financial empowerment. Leaders highlighted the role of digital tools in widening market reach, improving operational efficiency, and building resilience among small enterprises. GCash for Business (G4B) also showcased features such as SoundPay and Pocket Pay, offering businesses streamlined payment solutions and encouraging digital adoption.

Through the integration of financial literacy education, accessible digital services, and responsible lending, GCash is helping Mindanao’s entrepreneurs adapt, innovate, and thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy. For more information, visit www.gcash.com.

Aprio Expands Philippine Presence With New Manila Office

Manila, Philippines — Aprio, the 24th largest business advisory and accounting firm in the U.S., has expanded its presence in the Philippines with the opening of its second office in Makati City.

Aprio's new office is located at KMC One Ayala Mall in Makati City, placing the company in Metro Manila's primary business district. It is designed to support Aprio Philippines' expanding workforce and enhanced service delivery, ensuring scalable capacity for future growth while providing a more accessible workspace for its over 100 employees in Metro Manila.

“Aprio Philippines' rapid expansion, showcased with our new, strategically located office in Makati City, underscores our commitment to both our global clients and our Philippine team. This growth reflects the increasing demand for international talent and for scalable, end-to-end service delivery across Aprio's global network. By investing in our local office, we are not just expanding capacity, but we are strengthening collaboration and positioning Aprio to lead the next era of global transformation for our clients," said Dave Kothari, Global Solutions Delivery Leader and Partner at Aprio.

Since opening its flagship office in Clark Global City in April 2022, Aprio has rapidly grown its workforce from 75 to 400 by year-end, recording an impressive 525% increase. Aprio Philippines' teams support services across tax, advisory, assurance, wealth management, and business operations, focusing on analytics, technology adoption, compliance modernization, and workflow optimization.

To learn more about Aprio Philippines, you may visit www.aprio.com/locations/philippines/ or its Facebook page.

Security Bank Foundation Donates New School Building to Antique National School

San Jose de Buenavista, Antique – More than 7,000 learners of Antique National School will now have access to safer and more conducive classrooms as the Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI) turned over a newly built, two-storey, eight-classroom school building under its flagship Build a School, Build a Nation initiative.

For decades, the school has struggled with limited space, forcing eleven sections into makeshift rooms divided only by thin partitions. “Students and teachers alike have to compete with noise and distractions while trying to learn,” shared School Principal Roger Jomolo.

As an alumnus himself, Jomolo described the donation as deeply meaningful, “Security Bank is very, very generous. As a proud alumnus, it warms my heart to see them make Antique National School a better place to learn and to produce more young leaders in the future.”

The new building marks a major milestone for the school community. “This building expands our home and brings new hope—giving learners the space they need to focus, grow, and dream,” Jomolo added.

A classroom that restores hope

For students like Grade 11 learner Laica Shane Fernandez, the new classrooms carry even greater significance. Despite financial hardships and a devastating house fire that destroyed her school materials, Laica pushed forward—selling handmade polaroids and school supplies to continue her education.

"Kahit sunod-sunod ang pagsubok, lalo po akong naging motivated na mas sikapan pa ang aking pag-aaral upang mabawi namin kung ano man ang mga nawala sa amin,” Laica shared.

Even if the challenges come one after another, we become more motivated to work harder so we can recover what we lost. Now, with these new classrooms, I can focus on learning without distractions.

A commitment to education, one child at a time

During the ceremony, SBFI Chairman Rafael Simpao, Jr. reaffirmed the Foundation’s long-standing advocacy for education.

“We trust our actions show how serious we are in elevating the education of Filipino youth—one child at a time. Some may feel the country’s education challenges are overwhelming and that our efforts hardly make a difference. I disagree. There is power in persistent, persevering effort.”

To date, Security Bank Foundation has donated 877 classrooms for 150 schools across 91 cities and municipalities, helping alleviate overcrowding and improve learning conditions across the Philippines.

Security Bank Wins International Award for Leadership in Financial Crime Compliance

Security Bank Corporation (PSE:SECB) has been named Best In-House Due Diligence and Third-Party Risk Solution in the Fraud & Financial Crime category at the 8th Regulation Asia Awards for Excellence, affirming the Bank’s commitment to building smarter, safer, and more customer-centric compliance systems.

The award recognizes the Bank’s breakthrough Transactor Due Diligence (Project TeDD) initiative—a fully digital, risk-sensitive due diligence platform that strengthens financial crime controls while dramatically improving the customer experience.

Designed to meet and exceed regulatory expectations, Project TeDD streamlines how clients provide and update their information. Whether through a branch, online appointment, or kiosk, clients can securely complete the process in minutes. What once took up to 14 minutes can now be done in as fast as five minutes, with even faster processing for returning transactors—reducing wait times and elevating convenience without compromising safety.

“In an environment shaped by increasingly complex regulations, our goal is not just to comply—but to lead with innovation, protection, and customer focus,” said Anna Christina Chinjen, SVP and Chief Compliance Officer. “Project TeDD helps us stay ahead of financial crime risks, protect our clients, and deliver BetterBanking that is simpler, more intuitive, and more secure.”

Beyond efficiency, Project TeDD strengthens real-time monitoring and financial crime detection, helping protect clients from fraud and identity-related risks. Since its launch in November 2024, the platform has served over 200,000 transactors and reduced the Bank’s environmental footprint—saving an estimated 190-280 kg of CO2 emissions by shifting from paper-based to digital processing.

Now in its eighth year, the Regulation Asia Awards for Excellence is one of the region’s most respected industry recognitions, attracting over 180 entries across Asia Pacific. Entries undergo a rigorous two-month evaluation by Regulation Asia’s editorial and research teams, together with an independent panel of industry experts.

Security Bank Partners With WIZ.AI to Elevate Customer Engagement With Advanced Conversational AI

Makati City, Philippines – Security Bank has entered into a strategic partnership with WIZ.AI, a regional leader in AI–powered voice automation, to strengthen its digital transformation agenda and enhance customer engagement through secure, scalable, conversational AI. The partnership was formalized in a signing ceremony held at the Security Bank Centre in Makati City on November 17, 2025.

The collaboration marks a significant step in the Bank’s efforts to modernize operations and apply intelligent automation across key service touchpoints, including collections. By integrating WIZ.AI’s natural language processing (NLP) and voice automation capabilities, Security Bank aims to improve efficiency, accuracy, and responsiveness while delivering more personalized customer experiences.

“At Security Bank, our mission has always been to provide BetterBanking—a promise rooted in understanding our customers’ needs and delivering solutions that make a real difference,” said Balaji Vijayan, SVP and Retail and Business Banking Risk Management Head at Security Bank. “With WIZ.AI, we aim to improve our collections efficiency through seamless human-bot synergy.”

Echoing this, Jianfeng Lu, Founder and CEO of WIZ.AI. said, “Our partnership with Security Bank reinforces WIZ.AI’s commitment to empowering enterprises across Southeast Asia with secure, scalable, and truly human-like conversational AI. Security Bank’s dedication to BetterBanking strongly aligns with our ‘’local-first’ vision—leveraging advanced LLM-powered voice automation to deliver customer experiences that are both efficient and culturally attuned. We are excited to support the Bank in enhancing collections performance and setting new standards for intelligent customer engagement in the Philippines.”

The partnership forms part of Security Bank’s broader digital transformation roadmap, which prioritizes data-driven decision-making, operational efficiency, and the responsible adoption of new technologies to enhance customer experience.

EastWest, FoodPanda, and Visa Reward Cravings With the New Credit Card

Manila, Philippines—Filipinos who live for convenience and crave-on-demand can now turn every order into a rewarding experience with the EastWest foodpanda Visa Credit Card, a co-branded card made for today’s digitally savvy, food-loving spenders.

Built for modern lifestyles, the card allows users to earn cashback not only from their foodpanda orders but also from everyday purchases, from their morning coffee runs to weekend grocery hauls. It can be used anywhere Visa is accepted, locally or abroad, making every tap rewarding.

The collaboration between EastWest and foodpanda merges the best of two worlds: EastWest’s expertise in digital banking innovation and foodpanda’s strong connection with Filipino consumers who value convenience and rewards. Together, they are introducing a card product that’s not only practical but also personal, aligning with how modern consumers live, spend, and enjoy.

“We built this card around what our customers love most: food, convenience, and crave-on-demand,” said Daniel Jaramillo, Managing Director of foodpanda Philippines. “It’s a payment option that rewards the simple joys you enjoy every day: your morning coffee, your comfort food, or even your spontaneous late-night cravings.”

Endless cravings. Instant rewards.

Through this partnership, cardholders can enjoy 10% cashback on all foodpanda orders, earning up to Php 400 in cashback each month. They will continue to earn 3% cashback after reaching the cap, ensuring continuous rewards for repeat orders. Users also earn 1% cashback on overseas transactions and 0.3% cashback on other local purchases, with a Php 1,000 monthly cap on total cashback earned across all spending categories.

The card comes with no annual fee for the first year and a free six-month pandapro subscription for early users. Cashback is credited weekly to a user’s pandapay wallet, giving immediate access to rewards—a first in the local market that reflects foodpanda’s focus on instant gratification and seamless convenience.

“We saw a natural synergy between EastWest’s financial solutions, Visa’s global network, and foodpanda’s digital ecosystem,” said Jerry G. Ngo, Chief Executive Officer of EastWest. “Through this partnership, we can offer customers something rewarding and relevant, delivered in a way that is simple, fast, and easy to use, built around the way Filipinos experience everyday life.”

A New Way to Spend Deliciously

As credit card usage continues to grow among younger consumers, cobranded products like the EastWest foodpanda Visa Credit Card highlight a shift toward lifestyle-first financial tools that make daily living more rewarding and accessible.

“The power of Visa’s technology and global network enables fast, seamless, and secure payments that truly elevate food and dining experiences for Filipinos, and this co-brand partnership underscores our shared commitment to provide products and financial instruments tailored to Filipinos’ dynamic consumer needs and preferences,” highlighted Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines.

With tap-to-pay functionality, global Visa acceptance, and automatic weekly cashback, this ultimate foodie card redefines convenience and satisfaction, proving that even small purchases can lead to meaningful rewards. For foodpanda, every craving—big or small—deserves to be rewarded.

To learn more or start your application, visit eastwestbanker.com/foodpanda or tap ‘Apply Now’ on the foodpanda app.

Sari-Sari Stores Using AI See 46% Sales Jump - Packworks Report

Manila, Philippines — Artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to reshape how local sari-sari stores operate, helping small retailers make smarter decisions and improve profitability through practical, data-driven insights.

New findings from tech startup Packworks.io show that AI is no longer a distant concept for microenterprises but is becoming a tool that directly supports day-to-day store management and sales performance for neighborhood stores.

Packworks analyzed more than 300 stores in its network over a two-week period following data collection in September 2025 and recorded a 46% increase in daily gross merchandise value (GMV). This increase highlights substantial gains in overall store efficiency, resulting in a 17% rise in total sales for stores during the same period.

Packworks also found that stores that applied AI-driven recommendations earned higher revenue despite operating on 20% fewer active selling days—dropping from five to four days over two weeks. This indicates how AI can guide store owners in managing inventory, improving product mix, and planning demand more efficiently, enabling owners to maximize sales during their operating hours.

The insights come from Packworks’ analysis of sari-sari stores that accessed its Store Insighting Project (SIP) document, a personalized report that turns each store’s transaction history into actionable recommendations powered by AI. By reviewing pre- and post-performance across stores, Packworks quantified the impact of engaging with the SIP document on business outcomes for its partner stores. The analysis also showed that the increase in sales was driven by underperforming products identified by the AI tool, giving store owners insight into which stock to move to maintain operational efficiency.

Packworks’ AI-powered precision marketing tool was developed with DOST-PCIEERD’s Startup Grant Fund (SGF) Program, awarded in 2024 to support wider AI adoption in the country’s micro-retail sector. The company also partnered with ST Telemedia Global Data Centres (Philippines) (STT GDC Philippines) to access its AI Synergy Lab to run large-scale machine learning models, and with Ateneo’s Business Insights Laboratory for Development (BUILD) to build a comprehensive data warehouse and business intelligence tools.

"Even at this early stage of adoption, we've recorded increased sales and enhanced operational efficiency from stores by using the AI tools we've developed with support from DOST and through our collaborations with STT GDC and Ateneo BUILD. As stores learn to leverage the recommendations from the AI-driven insights they can access through SIP, microretailers can make smarter decisions that translate into higher sales and more efficient operations," Packworks Chief Data Officer Andoy Montiel said.

Packworks' latest innovation aims to complement the government's efforts in helping micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) adopt AI. While AI adoption could unlock PHP 2.8 trillion economic benefits by 2030 across sectors, a report by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) shows that only 14.9% of local businesses currently use AI tools. This wide gap, despite widespread computer ownership and internet access, indicates a slow rate of adoption and highlights the need for accessible solutions.

"Our mission at Packworks is to close the gap by making AI practical, accessible, and useful for the smallest retailers. Our latest innovation highlights the immense potential of how technology, especially AI, and strategic partnerships can drive sustainable growth for neighborhood stores across the Philippines," Packworks Co-Founder Hubert Yap said.

Packworks’ mission to bring AI into micro retail stores aligns with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, which recognizes the role of digital transformation and emerging technologies like AI in increasing efficiency and revitalizing industries and services.

For more studies and data trends insights in sari-sari stores, you may visit http://packworks.io/ or Packworks’ Facebook page to learn more.

Security Bank Marks 364th Branch in Cabuyao, Laguna

Makati, Philippines – Security Bank opens its first branch in Cabuyao City, Laguna – its 364th nationwide – bringing its BetterBanking experience closer to residents and businesses to a fast-growing community.

Cabuyao, a key industrial and commercial hub home to manufacturing plants, logistics centers, and thousands of MSMEs, continues to attract new businesses and residents. The newly opened branch is strategically located to support this growth, offering convenient access to Security Bank’s full suite of financial solutions for entrepreneurs, professionals, and families.

“We've reimagined the traditional branch experience to provide a seamless blend of personal and digital interactions,” said Leslie Y. Cham, EVP and Branch Banking Group Head of Security Bank. “From welcoming, low counters that encourage conversations to integrated digital tools that make transactions faster and more secure – every detail reflects our commitment to putting customers first.”

The Cabuyao Branch is open Mondays to Fridays, 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.

For more information on Security Bank’s products, services, and branch locations, visit www.securitybank.com or follow Security Bank on social media.

GCash Connects Filipino Values to Global Relevance at BrandCon PH 2025

As Filipino brands embrace culture both as an identity and a bridge to global relevance, industry leaders are calling for innovation rooted in authenticity and purpose.

This was the key message at the inaugural BrandCon PH 2025, organized by The Business Manual (One Mega Group). With the theme “Building Brands that Move the Nation Forward,” the event emphasized how cultural insight, brand longevity, and innovation can collectively drive sustainable growth and nation-building.

Among the leading voices at the event was GCash, the country’s leading finance app, with chief marketing officer Neil Trinidad sharing how the brand’s deep understanding of the Filipino culture has shaped its identity, guided innovation, and strengthened its global resonance.

“Money is a sensitive topic in the Philippines,” Neil shared. “But values like belongingness, progress, and bayanihan helped shape our identity. These became the lens through which GCash built its brand—guiding our rise as the country’s first $5-billion unicorn.”

He added, “For tech brands, you're always looking for a problem to solve. What friction or problem do our consumers have that no one else is addressing today? If you're able to understand that problem, you're able to create a solution, test it right away, improve on it, and then you're actually adding value to their lives. And therefore, you become indispensable in their everyday lives.”

This perspective led to innovations like GLoan Sakto—a micro-loan service allowing users to borrow as little as ₱100, payable within 14 days and with zero interest. By designing products that answer real, everyday needs, the idea of borrowing money is reframed —from a source of shame into an act of diskarte, empowering users to take control of their finances without stigma.

Beyond product innovation, Neil emphasized how culture provides the foundation for sustainable brand growth. By aligning solutions with values that matter to Filipinos, GCash has been able to scale quickly while maintaining deep local resonance.

“When you root your brand in culture and purpose, you don’t just speak to local audiences—you create something the world wants to be part of. That’s how Filipino brands can thrive on the global stage,” Neil concluded.

The first-ever BrandCon PH brought together brand builders, marketers, advertisers, agency leads, creatives, and founders to explore how businesses can stay relevant, resilient, purposeful, and ready to lead—while helping shape Filipino culture and identity in today’s fast-paced and competitive market.

Joining the conversation were industry leaders from Unilever, the global consumer goods powerhouse behind some of the world’s most trusted brands; GIGIL, the multi-awarded independent creative agency renowned for its daring, culture-shaping campaigns; Pickup Coffee, the fast-rising homegrown brand making quality coffee more accessible to Filipinos; and Baken, the innovative local food brand gaining a loyal following for its playful take on an everyday favorite.

By keeping cultural insight at the heart of its strategy, GCash continues to design solutions that reflect Filipino values—helping people move forward and allowing local identity to resonate on the global stage.

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

Security Bank Earns Three Golden Arrow Awards for Leadership in Corporate Governance

Makati, Philippines – Security Bank Corporation received three Golden Arrows from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) for excellence in corporate governance, underscoring its commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership.

Presented on October 23, 2025, at Okada Manila, the recognition was based on the Bank’s ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) rating of 100–109 points, placing Security Bank among the region’s top companies in upholding best governance practices.

“Receiving the Three Golden Arrows is a proud moment for Security Bank as it affirms the strength of our governance framework and the trust placed in us by our stakeholders,” said Atty. Cirilo P. Noel, Chairman of Security Bank. “This recognition motivates us to push further—enhancing our practices, fostering accountability, and creating sustainable value for the communities we serve.”

This milestone strengthens Security Bank’s commitment to its BetterBanking promise—continuing to lead with integrity, enhancing its governance framework, and embracing evolving standards that shape a more resilient and forward-thinking financial institution.

Restoring Dignity in Borrowing: Fuse Financing on Breaking Credit Barriers for Small Businesses at AgriVerse 2025

Fuse Financing, Inc., the lending arm of GCash, led a discussion on fair borrowing options for Filipino micro-retailers and agri-entrepreneurs at the recently concluded Agriverse Summit 2025 held in Pasay City. The event brought together agripreneurs, government officials, innovators, and small business owners to explore how technology can support business growth, boost agricultural productivity, and promote sustainable farming.
Organized by the Asia Small Business Federation (ASBF) and the Philippine Association of Stores and Cardinderia Owners (PASCO), Fuse Financing's chief product officer and strategy head, Baby Aquino, highlighted the company's commitment to restoring dignity and fairness to borrowing for the Filipino micro-retail and agricultural sector.

In a fireside chat, "Digital Wallets, Local Markets: Unlocking Growth for Micro-Retail and Agribusiness," Aquino also shared how Fuse is redefining access to finance through digital technology. The company replaces exploitative informal lending with fast, fair, and transparent credit products that can be accessed in real time, anytime, anywhere, through a mobile phone via your GCash e-wallet.

Fuse’s innovation lies in its end-to-end digital process. By using data-driven credit assessment and digital collection tools, the lender removes the need for physical documents or in-person applications. This allows MSMEs to access funds within minutes, validating what Aquino describes as "true empowerment."

As of the second quarter of 2025, Fuse has extended credit to 9.5 million Filipinos and disbursed P287 billion in loans. Fuse can extend credit to segments underserved by traditional institutions, such as MSMEs and women, with one in three being small business owners, and three in five borrowers are women while four out of five are from the masses (SEC C2DE), underscoring the company’s wide reach and deep impact on inclusion.

The lender’s suite of products is designed to meet the different financing needs of small entrepreneurs. GLoan offers larger cash loans for business owners of up to P350,000, to support their business capital and growth, while GLoan Sakto, a sachet-type loan, enables eligible customers to borrow for as low as Php 100- an ideal option for the regular customers or the “sukis” of sari-sari stores, instead of them constantly borrowing from sari-sari store owners. This also relieves them of the hassle of collecting those small loan owners. Often used as “pambale,” borrowing as small as P100 can give customers who were traditionally sidelined by formal credit institutions an opportunity to build a formal credit history. This approach helps everyday Filipinos transition from informal borrowing toward long-term, sustainable growth.

Aquino emphasized that Fuse’s mission is to make formal lending accessible to every Filipino entrepreneur. "’Yung philosophy kasi talaga ng GCash is to allow Filipinos to borrow with dignity. Dapat ‘yong mga produkto namin ay klaro, fair, and transparent. (GCash operates on a philosophy that aims to allow Filipinos to borrow with dignity. Our products are clear, fair, [and] transparent),” she said.

Aquino concluded that the future of small businesses in the Philippines, especially in the agri-tech sector, depends on three essentials: access to finance, access to markets, and access to technology. Through digital innovation, Fuse and GCash aim to make these opportunities available to every Filipino entrepreneur.

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

Security Bank Opens 12th Branch in Cavite, 363rd Nationwide

Makati, Philippines – Security Bank continues to broaden its reach with the opening of its newest branch in Kawit, Cavite—its 363rd branch nationwide and 12th in the province, reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to make banking more accessible to communities beyond Metro Manila.

Steeped in history as the birthplace of Philippine independence, Kawit is steadily evolving into a thriving center for commerce and community development. The new branch aims to support entrepreneurs, professionals, and families with the personalized service and digital convenience that define BetterBanking.

“We've reimagined the traditional branch experience to provide a seamless blend of personal and digital interactions. From welcoming, low counters that encourage conversations to integrated digital tools that make transactions faster and more secure– every detail reflects our commitment to putting customers first,” says Leslie Y. Cham, EVP and Branch Banking Group Head of Security Bank.

The Kawit Branch features a modern, customer-friendly design —with low counters for easier interaction, a self-service digital kiosk, and a layout that enhances comfort and accessibility. The branch serves both individuals and businesses, offering a full suite of deposit, loan, and cash management solutions.

The branch is open Mondays to Fridays, 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, located at Robertson Plaza, Kawit, Cavite.

For more information on Security Bank’s products, services, and branch locations, visit www.securitybank.com or follow Security Bank on social media.

PNO ACG, CICC, GCash Remind Users to Stay Alert vs Scams Ahead of Undas 2025

As Filipinos prepare to head home to honor their departed loved ones this Undas, GCash reminds everyone to stay alert—not just on the road, but also online. With increased activity during the holidays, scammers often take advantage of users through text and chat messages that pretend to be from official GCash channels.

“As we commemorate this season of remembering our departed loved ones, digital safety remains a top priority. GCash continues to strengthen its systems and educate users to recognize and avoid scams, especially spoofing,” said Miguel Geronilla, GCash chief information security officer.

Be informed of scam tactics

Scammers are very cunning and will employ different ways to deceive people. One of the common scams to be alert to is spoofing—a type of online scam where fraudsters disguise their identity to make messages, emails, or calls appear as if they’re coming from trusted sources like GCash or other official institutions.

Watch out for spoofed messages

These messages may look official, but the goal is to trick users into clicking on malicious links or sharing sensitive information such as OTPs, MPINs, or account details. Never click suspicious links or share personal details like your OTP, MPIN, or account credentials.

Be alert against fake pages and impersonators

Some spoofing attempts come from fake GCash Facebook pages or Messenger accounts designed to look real. Check for the verified blue checkmark and report suspicious accounts. The only official page is GCash Official.

Never share your MPIN or OTP

Fraudsters may pose as GCash agents offering “account verification” or “cashback.” GCash will never ask for your MPIN, OTP, or personal details. Sharing these gives scammers access to your account. Always double-check before responding to any message.

Remember: GCash will never send links via SMS, email, or chat apps. Only transact through the official GCash app or verified GCash channels on Facebook and Messenger.

Spot suspicious links

If you receive a link claiming to fix an account issue or confirm a transaction, don’t click it. Phishing pages are designed to steal your login credentials. Instead, open your GCash app directly to verify any alerts or transactions.

Report and stay informed

If you think you’ve received a spoofed message or encountered a phishing attempt, immediately report it through the Help Center in the GCash app. The GCash security teams continuously monitor and act on reported scams to protect users.

Individuals who have fallen victim to scams are encouraged to report and file cases to initiate the investigation. For assistance, the public can contact the PNP ACG through their hotlines at (02) 8414-1560 or 0998-598-8116, or via email at acg@pnp.gov.ph and the CICC national hotline at 1326 or mobile number 0991 4814225, or via email at report@cicc.gov.ph.

GCash users may also report suspected fraudulent activities to the official GCash Help Center at help.gcash.com by messaging Gigi, "I want to report a scam." Customers can also contact the official GCash hotline at 2882 for inquiries and other concerns.

For more information and updates on cybersecurity, visit the PNP-ACG Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/anticybercrimegroup and the GCash website at https://www.gcash.com.

By staying vigilant and informed, you can honor your loved ones this Undas without falling for scams.

Filipinos can download the GCash app for free on Google Play or the App Store. For safety reminders and updates, visit the official Facebook page at GCash Official.

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

Security Bank Launches BetterBanking Rewards With “Ready. Set. Redeem!” Event and Mall Takeover at Shangri-La Plaza

Manila, Philippines – Security Bank unveiled its BetterBanking Rewards platform at the “Ready. Set. Redeem!” launch event and mall takeover at Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City on October 27, 2025. The interactive event showcased the Bank’s latest innovation designed to make earning and redeeming rewards easier, faster, and more meaningful for its credit cardholders.

BetterBanking Rewards is the Bank’s flagship digital platform for credit card rewards and rebates, offering customers a real-time, fully automated experience for viewing, managing, and redeeming their points. The event featured interactive booths with product demonstrations, allowing guests to experience first-hand how seamless and rewarding the platform is.

“BetterBanking Rewards will redefine how our customers experience banking—by making every transaction rewarding, every moment convenient, and every point meaningful,” shared Meri Filart, VP and Credit Cards Head. “We listened to our customers and understood that they wanted more flexibility and transparency in how they manage their rewards. That’s why we built BetterBanking Rewards around simplicity, speed, and customer empowerment. Every swipe should feel rewarding—and now, it truly is.”

With BetterBanking Rewards, cardholders gain access to powerful new features:

• Real-time tracking and redemption of reward points
• Pay with Rewards, which allows cardholders to redeem their points globally at any location that accepts Mastercard
• Points Exchange, which enables cardholders to convert their points into rewards with over 100 airline miles and hotel loyalty programs

These enhancements position BetterBanking Rewards as one of the top loyalty platforms offered by any local bank.

This year, BetterBanking Rewards has already won several accolades for its innovation, customer-centricity, including Best Customer Loyalty Program by the International Finance Awards, Best Advance in Loyalty/Rewards Programme by Retail Banker International, and Credit Card Initiative of the Year by Asian Banking & Finance.

“We’re continuously reimagining what banking should feel like,” added Filart. “BetterBanking Rewards is just the start of a more personalized, digital-first experience that gives our customers the freedom to enjoy the rewards that matter most to them.”

Apply now and start earning rewards instantly

Customers can apply for a Security Bank credit card through www.securitybank.com and register for BetterBanking Rewards via the Security Bank mobile app or website to start redeeming rewards anytime, anywhere.

Smart and Maya Team Up to Remove Fees on Load Purchases, Zero-Rate App Access

Smart subscribers can now buy airtime load and data packages on Maya without convenience fees — and access the app data-free.

As more Filipinos rely on their mobile phones for daily communication and financial transactions, access to affordable data and easy-to-use digital tools has become essential.

In response to this growing need, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) and Maya have teamed up to ease the cost of connectivity and expand access to financial services. The collaboration introduces a range of benefits designed to make mobile data more affordable and digital transactions more convenient for millions of users across the country.

Under the partnership, Smart and TNT subscribers using the Maya app can now purchase load with zero convenience fees. Additionally, the Maya app is now zero-rated for Smart users, allowing them to access its services without consuming mobile data. In October, customers can also enjoy exclusive data promos such as Magic Data 99 and All Data 99 through the Smart Online Store and Maya. The offer runs until December 31, 2025.

“This collaboration goes beyond promos—it’s about breaking barriers to digital access,” said Lloyd Manaloto, First Vice President for Corporate Marketing and Strategy at Smart. “Together with Maya, we’re making it easier for Filipinos to stay connected and take control of their finances—without the extra costs. It’s seamless, inclusive, and built for the way people live today.”

“By working with Smart, we’re making it easier for Filipinos to access the tools they need to manage their money, transfer funds, save, pay bills, and stay online—without worrying about extra costs,” said Khurram Malik, Group Chief Commercial Officer at Maya.

The initiative is already rolling out in phases nationwide. Both companies emphasized that this collaboration forms part of a broader push for digital inclusion, supporting more affordable connectivity and easier access to essential financial services.

By combining data access and digital payments, the partnership aims to help millions of Filipinos stay connected and financially active, contributing to inclusive growth, digital literacy, and economic resilience across the country.

PNP-ACG Ramps up Cyber Defense Training With Leading PH Finance Super App

The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) has strengthened its drive against digital financial crimes with the launch of its Cybersecurity and Fintech Handbook and the renewal of its partnership with GCash. The event also introduced the Scam Assistance Hub, a project aimed at facilitating the quick and easy filing of scam reports through a simple QR Code. These major initiatives are targeted to complement law enforcement efforts in addressing emerging cyber fraud and scams for more timely and coordinated action.

The PNP-ACG and GCash renewed their Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), first signed in 2022, which established a framework for cooperation on cybersecurity awareness, capability-building, and information sharing.

This reaffirms the shared commitment of both institutions to handle financial cybercrimes and to strengthen consumer protection amid the continued growth of digital payments.

“Financial technology continues to evolve, and with it, the methods used by cybercriminals,” said Miguel Geronilla, chief information and security officer at GCash. “We at GCash are honored to support the PNP-ACG in enhancing the capabilities of law enforcers through education. By sharing fintech-specific use cases, we aim to help build a more informed response force against digital financial threats.”

Supporting cyber defense frontliners across the country

The Cybersecurity and Fintech Handbook was created in partnership with GCash to complement the efforts of the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit (RACU) and ACG personnel by outlining key trends and schemes in financial cybercrime. Specifically, the handbook features modules on cybersecurity frameworks, cybercrime laws, financial investigations, fintech systems, and cryptocurrency fundamentals, ensuring officers are better equipped to address today’s digital crime challenges.

“These initiatives are a collective step forward in our continuing effort to protect Filipinos in the digital space,” said Brig. Gen. Bernard R. Yang, director of the PNP-ACG. “Through strategic collaborations and timely learning tools, we are building a law enforcement force that is ready to address today’s emerging cyber threats.”

Other key officials present at the ceremonial event were PNP ACG chief investigative officer PCol Jay D. Guillermo, GCash chief information and security officer Miguel Geronilla, GCash public affairs manager Mabel M. Niala, and GCash external affairs manager Jerome C. Lantin.

The handbook will be rolled out to regional units via virtual assemblies and video modules, aligning with the PNP’s ongoing modernization strategy and the national government’s National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP) 2023–2028. Developed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the NCSP sets the policy direction for a secure and resilient cyberspace in the Philippines.

This joint effort also comes on the heels of the recently released Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA), a new law passed in July 2024 aimed at curbing online scams and fraudulent financial activities.

The AFASA targets key financial crimes such as social engineering scams and money muling, while also empowering institutions like the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to investigate suspicious financial activities. The Cybersecurity and Fintech Handbook seeks to help reinforce these regulatory updates by helping frontline police better understand and enforce provisions under AFASA.

Reporting scams made easier via QR

The event also marked the introduction of the Scam Assistance Hub (SAH), a new platform that simplifies scam reporting for the public.

The SAH QR code connects users to the GCash SAH website, a platform where victims of online scams can file police reports, receive assistance, and process documentation for claims under GCash’s Express Send Scam Insurance.

This initiative ensures a more coordinated response between the PNP-ACG and GCash in handling fraud complaints and supporting affected users.

Building a future-ready police force

These efforts complement the PNP-ACG’s broader public education and prevention campaigns designed to build digital literacy among both law enforcement and the general public.

“Technology will continue to evolve, and criminals will continue to adapt,” Brig. Gen. Yang added. “These initiatives will help in the long journey of strengthening our cyber defenses. What matters is that we are moving forward together with stronger capabilities, a clearer direction, and a deeper resolve.”

The group reminded that while the SAH QR Code is still being prepared for deployment, any incidents of cybercrime and fraud can still be reported via the PNP-ACG’s hotline 1326 or via GCash’s app Help Center or through any of the official customer support channels. The public may also follow PNP-ACG’s official social media pages for updates on its ongoing efforts to fight cybercrime and promote digital security nationwide.

E-Wallet Use Jumps 75% in Sari-Sari Stores, Fueling Digital Transformation - Packworks Report

Manila, Philippines — Sari-sari stores are rapidly digitalizing their operations, driven by a significant increase in e-wallet use, according to a new report from Filipino tech startup Packworks.

The report used their internal transaction records as the starting point to conduct a direct survey of more than 2,000 sari-sari store owners within Packworks' nationwide network of 300,000+ stores from January to August 2025.

According to the data, half of the store owners surveyed reported a 75% increase in e-wallet usage in their store operations between January and August. The remaining respondents also saw substantial growth: 20% experienced a 100% increase in usage, another 20% saw a 50% increase, and 10% reported a 10% rise.

Store owners largely attribute this growing adoption to increased consumer demand, as their customers are also turning to e-wallets to buy goods, access funds, and settle bills at their local stores.

“Maraming nang nagpapa-cash-in at cash-out at bumibili gamit ang mga e-wallet. Dahil dumarami, gusto namin masabayan ang pangangailangan nila. Nakakatulong din naman ito sa amin para magkaroon kami ng dagdag kita,” (A lot of our customers are making cash-in and cash-out transactions aside from buying products with e-wallets. Since more customers are using them, we want to keep up with their needs. It also helps us earn a little extra), said Marijane Rea, a sari-sari store owner from Laguna.

Store owners are using e-wallets for a variety of business operations. About 40% use the platforms for in-store payments, 30% for bill payments, and the remaining 30% for cash-in and cash-out transactions.

This digital shift is quickly becoming a critical source of revenue. Around 13% of store owners say their e-wallet earnings equal their revenue from physical goods. Among the rest of the respondents, e-wallets still contribute significantly: 66% say that about 20% of their revenues come from e-wallet use, and the remaining 21% say their e-wallet earnings account for 10% of their total revenue.

GCash and Maya are the widely used e-wallets, with 85% of store owners reporting using GCash for their business transactions and 15% using Maya.

“Bukod sa kita namin sa tindahan, nagkaroon kami ng dagdag kita sa paggamit sa mga e-wallet kasi meron kaming tubo na PHP 10 hanggang PHP 20 sa pag-cash-in at cash-out, o di kaya tuwing nagbabayad ng kuryente, tubig, o internet ang mga customer,” (Besides the income we earn from the store, we also get extra earnings from using e-wallets because we earn a profit of PHP 10 to PHP 20 from cash-in and cash-out transactions, or whenever customers pay for electricity, water, or internet bills), said Rachel Miguel, a store owner from Bacolod.

To increase their transaction capacity and meet surging customer demand, sari-sari stores are strategically using up to five e-wallet accounts. According to the report, with each account having a monthly limit of PHP 100,000 to PHP 500,000, the combined monthly transaction capacity is up to PHP 3.5 million.

This trend supports the 30% of store owners’ interest in upgrading their e-wallets to business accounts to maintain a higher monthly limit of PHP 1 million.

Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas indicated that approximately 57% of total retail transactions were cashless in 2024, highlighting the increasing use of digital payments for everyday purchases and financial transactions.

Packworks Chief Platform Officer Hubert Yap highlights that sari-sari stores are rapidly embracing digital tools such as e-wallets to diversify their services and grow their businesses.

“The surge in e-wallet use proves that sari-sari stores are rapidly evolving into vital digital hubs for their communities. Aside from simply selling 'tingi' physical items, they are now diversifying their product range, offering high-margin, value-added financial services and integrating digital tools such as our app to fundamentally improve their operations and function as near-frictionless nano-banks for the neighborhoods they serve. These findings show that sari-sari stores have been at the forefront leading this digital transformation at the grassroots level,” cited Yap, “And there's an urgent need to support these micro-entrepreneurs with the right fintech to ensure they can fully capitalize on this opportunity, as they often say in sari-stores, a peso saved is a peso earned!”

For more studies and data trends insights in sari-sari stores, you may visit http://packworks.io/ or Packworks’ Facebook page to learn more.

Security Bank Capital Marks 30 Years of Purpose-Driven Finance for a Sustainable Philippines

Makati City, Philippines —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, healthcare, and financial services. Through these transactions, the firm has helped drive economic growth, business expansion, and industry modernization.

“Our journey over the past 30 years has been defined by purpose-driven finance", said Virgilio Chua, President and CEO of Security Bank Capital. “We believe capital should not only generate returns—it should generate impact. Whether it’s powering homes with clean energy, building roads that connect communities, or supporting inclusive healthcare, our mission is to help industries grow responsibly and sustainably.”

Championing sustainable finance

In 2025, Security Bank Capital’s leadership in sustainable finance was recognized by top global financial publications. The firm was named the Philippines’ Best Investment Bank for Financing by Euromoney, awarded the Best Investment Bank in the Philippines by Alpha Southeast Asia, and received a “Highly Commended” citation by Finance Asia. These accolades, alongside past distinctions from The Asset, ESG Business, and Asian Banking & Finance, underscore its technical excellence and commitment to nation-building.

From 2022 to 2024, Security Bank completed and helped arrange over PHP1.7 trillion worth of bond issuances—providing long-term funding for renewable energy, real estate, infrastructure, financial services, and the national government. It also closed approximately PHP362 billion in private and project finance deals, including landmark renewable energy, water, and digital infrastructure projects.

A notable milestone was a PHP150 billion project finance loan for an integrated 3,500MWp solar farm and 4,500MWh battery energy storage system—the world’s largest integrated solar and battery storage plant to date—supporting the Philippines’ renewable energy goals of 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040.

The firm also jointly arranged a PHP100 billion syndicated project finance facility for a major mass rail transit project in Northern Metro Manila, aimed at enhancing connectivity, promoting trade, and creating jobs. In addition, it helped structure the country’s first sustainability-linked bonds, tying financing incentives to measurable environmental targets such as emissions reduction and renewable energy adoption.

Financing the next generation of Filipino enterprises

Ranked among the top five investment banks in both debt and equity capital markets, Security Bank Capital continues to guide Philippine enterprises toward responsible, sustainable growth.

“As we look to the future, our focus remains clear: to be the preferred partner for sustainable finance in the Philippines", Chua said. “We’re investing in people, platforms, and partnerships that will help industries thrive while advancing our nation’s sustainability and development goals. Our legacy is not just in the deals we’ve closed—it is in the lives we’ve helped uplift and the future we’re helping to build.”

Security Bank Capital’s 30th anniversary is more than a celebration—it is a reaffirmation of its mission to lead with integrity, impact, and purpose for decades to come.