TP in the Philippines introduces AI Literacy module in the TP STEP Program in partnership with CyberGuardiansPH. Held at the Pasig City Library, participants from the 14th batch of TP STEP listen in on the AI courses learning about the basics and advantages of incorporating AI in their everyday life. 

Pasig City, Philippines, September 10, 2026 – TP in the Philippines, a global leader in digital business services, launched an expanded Artificial Intelligence (AI) Literacy Training component under its Skills Training to Employment Program (TP STEP), reinforcing the company’s commitment to preparing near-hires for the changing demands in the business process industry.

The enhanced learning track is being implemented in partnership with CyberGuardiansPH, a non-profit organization dedicated to co-creating a safer cyberspace through collaborations with both the public and private sectors. Through the integration of AI Ready ASEAN training modules and learning sessions, TP STEP participants will gain foundational and practical knowledge on artificial intelligence, digital responsibility, and emerging workplace technologies.

Under TP STEP, trainees are required to complete a comprehensive 15-day learning journey with TP, which now includes AI literacy and readiness modules alongside core employability and customer experience training. Participants who complete the program will graduate with enhanced exposure to digital tools equipping them with skills increasingly relevant in today’s technology-driven business environment.

In partnership with the Pasig LGU, the program has helped improve employability among aspiring professionals and members of local communities by providing industry-relevant training and pathways to careers in the IT-BPM sector. The inclusion of AI-focused learning reflects the growing importance of digital transformation across industries and the increasing integration of AI-powered solutions within the workplace.

“As AI continues to reshape industries globally, it is important that workforce development programs evolve alongside these advancements,” said TP in the Philippines VP for Human Resources Rachel Cacabelos. “By integrating AI literacy into TP STEP, we are helping ensure that more applicants gain meaningful exposure to the technologies that are becoming part of everyday operations in the customer experience and business services sector.”

The program enhancement also mirrors how TP’s own operations increasingly incorporate AI-enabled tools and systems in delivering services to clients and improving internal efficiencies, combining technological innovation with human expertise, empathy, and critical thinking to deliver better outcomes for customers and organizations alike.

AI Ready ASEAN is a regional initiative launched by the ASEAN Foundation, with CyberGuardiansPH as one of its local implementing partners, with support from Google.org. It aims to equip individuals from ASEAN Member states with essential AI skills. “AI readiness and cybersecurity awareness are becoming essential competencies in today’s digital economy,” said CyberGuardiansPH Executive Director Paolo Sangil. “Through this partnership, we hope to help empower more Filipinos with practical knowledge that will support both their employability and responsible participation in an increasingly AI-enabled world.”

Through the integration of AI Ready ASEAN training modules and learning sessions, TP STEP participants will gain foundational and practical knowledge on artificial intelligence, digital responsibility, and emerging workplace technologies.

The rollout of the enhanced program forms part of TP in the Philippines’ continuing efforts to support inclusive talent development, digital upskilling, and future-ready workforce initiatives as the company marks 30 years of operations in the country.

As International Dog Day celebrates the bond between dogs and their families, it is a timely reminder to make year-round preventive care part of responsible pet ownership.

Manila, Philippines, 8/2026

Persistent rains and flooding across communities make year-round preventive care more important than ever to keep dogs healthy and protected. These conditions can increase their exposure to parasites and other health risks, reinforcing the need for pet owners to stay proactive about their dogs’ health.

This International Dog Day, Boehringer Ingelheim reminds pet owners that preventive care should not take a break when the rain comes. Keeping dogs protected through regular veterinary care, vaccinations, parasite protection, and good hygiene can help prevent health concerns throughout the year and support their overall well-being.

“International Dog Day is a timely reminder that caring for our dogs means taking proactive steps to protect their health,” said Dr. Vincent Casimero, Head of Business Segment, Pets, Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines, Inc. “When we protect our dogs’ health, we also help protect the families and communities around them. Regular preventive care helps pet owners address health risks early and give their dogs the protection they need throughout the year.”

Everyday moments of companionship remind pet owners that keeping dogs healthy means staying proactive with preventive care, from vaccinations and parasite protection to regular veterinary visits. These simple steps can help protect dogs from a range of health risks and support their well-being throughout the year, so they can enjoy more happy moments with their families.

Leptospirosis: One health risk to watch

One health risk that can become more concerning during periods of rain and flooding is leptospirosis, a bacterial disease that can affect both dogs and humans. Rats are a major source of infection, and dogs can contract the bacteria through contact with water, soil, or other environments contaminated with infected urine.

While flooding and stagnant water can increase exposure, leptospirosis can also occur in urban communities where rodents are present. Early signs in dogs can include fever, lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea, which may resemble other illnesses. Severe infections can damage the kidneys and liver, cause bleeding disorders, and lead to other serious complications. Pet owners should consult a veterinarian promptly if their dog shows signs of illness or may have encountered contaminated environments.

Leptospirosis is an important health risk to watch for, but it is only one of the concerns that can affect dogs. Changes in weather and the environment can also increase their exposure to parasites and other preventable health risks, reinforcing the importance of year-round preventive care.

Prevention starts with everyday care

Rainy weather may bring added risks, but preventive care matters in every season. A consistent preventive care routine helps pet owners protect their dogs from a range of health concerns, while regular veterinary guidance can help ensure their dogs receive care suited to their lifestyle and environment.

Pet owners can help protect their dogs by:

• Keeping vaccinations up to date based on their veterinarian’s advice.
• Staying consistent with parasite protection.
• Steering dogs away from puddles, stagnant water, and floodwater.
• Making sure they have access to clean, safe drinking water.
• Keeping homes and surrounding areas clean to help keep rodents away.
• Scheduling regular veterinary visits to support preventive care and early detection of health concerns.

By making these practices part of everyday pet care, owners can help give their dogs the protection they need—not only during the rainy season, but throughout the year.

Protecting pets, families and communities through One Health

Dogs are more than pets—they are part of the family and share the same homes and environments as the people who care for them. Keeping them healthy can also help protect the people and communities around them.

This reflects the need for a One Health approach, recognizing that animal, human, and environmental health are closely linked. Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines, Inc. is committed to advancing preventive animal health and responsible pet ownership, working with veterinarians, pet owners, government, and industry partners to support healthier animals, families, and communities.

This International Dog Day, show dogs the love they deserve—talk to a veterinarian about year-round preventive care and the protection your dog needs.

Sudipen, Bacnotan, and San Juan formalize partnerships with GCash to modernize fund disbursements, digital payments, and public service delivery

San Juan Mayor Mariquita Ortega leads the municipality’s partnership with GCash to advance digital payments across all 41 barangays and pilot digital fund disbursements for barangay employees

Adopting a broader suite of digital government services in Bacnotan
Meanwhile, Bacnotan signed an MOA with GCash covering GBills, Scan to Pay, the Fund Disbursement Service, and Citizen Card integration, expanding digital government services for collections, disbursements, and citizen verification.


Through GBills and Scan to Pay, residents will soon be able to pay taxes, fees, and other government obligations through the GCash app, reducing manual over-the-counter processing. The Fund Disbursement Service and Citizen Card integration will likewise support the distribution of financial assistance, scholarships, and employee allowances while improving recipient verification.


The partnership also includes the rollout of Paleng-QR Ph at the Bacnotan Public Market, bringing digital payments to local vendors and residents. As part of the rollout, Bacnotan will pilot digital allowance disbursements for selected municipal employees before expanding implementation. In support of Mayor Divina Fontanilla’s vision of a cashless municipality, GCash also aims to onboard more local businesses through GCash GPO Plus and deploy additional GCash devices across the municipality.

Bacnotan’s digital transformation efforts, led by Mayor Divina Fontanilla (left), include the MOA signing with GCash and the rollout of Paleng-QR Ph at the Bacnotan Public Market

Supporting inclusive local governance in San Juan, La Union

GCash also formalized a Scan to Pay partnership with all 41 barangays in San Juan, positioning the municipality to become the country's first to fully integrate digital payments for barangay-level collections. Residents will soon be able to settle barangay fees and other local dues through the GCash app, reducing reliance on manual, cash-based collection processes.

Complementing this initiative, Mayor Mariquita Ortega will pilot the GCash Fund Disbursement Service in five barangays to digitalize the distribution of allowances for barangay employees, with plans to expand implementation across the municipality.

The partnerships reflect a shared vision between GCash and the three municipalities to promote more efficient, transparent, and inclusive local governance. By expanding digital payments and fund disbursement services, the initiatives help make government transactions more accessible and convenient, particularly for residents in underserved communities.

“We have been partnering with local governments for years to help them improve public service and transparency through digitalization. We are proud that Sudipen is the first municipality in La Union to embrace the GCash Fund Disbursement Service. Through our partnerships with San Juan and Bacnotan, we look forward to helping even more communities across the region benefit from faster, more efficient, and more inclusive government services,” shared GCash head of B2B Sales Cleo Celeste Santos.

The agreements in the province support the national push for e-governance and digital transformation by helping reduce dependence on cash while improving transparency and financial inclusion. Implementation across all three municipalities will be rolled out in phases as digital payment and disbursement services are integrated into existing government processes.

For more information, visit https://www.gcash.com.

Fuse Financing, Inc., the lending arm of GCash, has introduced facial verification for GLoan, adding a stronger layer of identity authentication to protect users against unauthorized loan applications and fraud.

This adaptive security feature is designed to protect loan transactions during elevated-risk moments, while keeping a frictionless experience for low-risk availments. This new feature builds on existing safeguards, including the recent launch of the in-app Security Center, which features new user-controlled safeguards: Lock My Account for immediate account suspension, Money Lock for securing wallet funds, and Subscription Center, all of which help keep users protected from prevalent threats and scams.

Facial verification uses biometric authentication via a Selfie Scan to confirm that the person applying is the legitimate account holder, reducing the risk of unauthorized loan transactions and disbursements even when login credentials have been compromised. With these security features in place, there is a stronger layer of assurance that loan applications are processed with the account owner’s consent, and reduces the likelihood of unauthorized transactions.

Fuse has also enhanced GLoan Protect with a new Loan Scam Insurance feature, providing coverage of up to ₱10,000 for select users. The additional coverage protects users from financial loss in cases where loans are triggered by unauthorized account use, phishing, and similar incidents.

Free health insurance when you borrow

GLoan also continues to offer GLoan Protect via GInsure, underwritten by Oona Insurance, which provides eligible users added financial protection built into their borrowing experience. With each loan worth ₱500 minimum from GLoan, qualified users receive access to free health insurance, including daily hospitalization allowance of at least ₱500 per day or up to 10% of the total loan value if confined in the hospital for a minimum of three days.

With the expanded coverage, GLoan Protect strengthens the overall protection available to users by combining safeguards against unauthorized borrowing with health-related support, reinforcing a more secure and reliable digital lending experience.

“Building trust means staying ahead of evolving threats. At Fuse and GCash, we continue to invest in security innovations that protect our borrowers at every step, from identity verification to added safeguards and benefits like loan scam insurance and health insurance. Our approach is simple: put the user first, anticipate risks, and ensure that every transaction is backed by features designed to keep them secured and protected, ” said Tony Isidro, president and CEO of Fuse Financing, Inc.

The move is part of a broader push of GCash to build a secure digital finance ecosystem in the Philippines, where access to financial services does not come at the cost of safety. By pairing a preventive measure like facial verification with a protective one like scam and health insurance, the fintech giant is taking a layered approach to user security that goes beyond convenience.

As threats evolve, together with our partners and users, we are building a more secure, transparent environment where every Filipino can manage their finances with confidence.

To check the status of your GLoan Protect or file an insurance claim, GCash users need to open the GCash app, navigate to “Explore the App”, tap “View All”, select “GInsure”, and head to “My GInsure”.

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

From grocery runs to quick daily purchases, receiving loose change or “barya” is part of everyday life for many Filipinos. To help users maximize every peso, GCash introduces GSukli, allowing customers to receive their change directly into their GCash wallet for free.

Instead of sitting unused in pockets or drawers, loose change is converted into accessible digital wallet value for everyday transactions on GCash, from paying bills and buying mobile load to transferring money and shopping online.

GSukli is now available at all Bench branches nationwide, with more Suyen Corporation brands set to offer the service soon. At participating cashiers, customers simply provide their registered GCash mobile number. For transactions with change of up to PHP 199.99, their sukli is credited directly to their GCash wallet, with an SMS confirmation sent once the transfer is successful.

“Small amounts can go a long way when made easily accessible. This newest feature reflects the commitment of GCash to making financial tools more practical and inclusive by helping users seamlessly move between cash and digital transactions,” said Barbie Dapul, G-Xchange, Inc. chief operating officer and general manager for consumer business.

The partnership with Bench brings GSukli into everyday retail transactions, giving customers another way to move between cash and digital money without having to carry or set aside their barya.

“Bench has always been committed to making everyday experiences simpler and more convenient for our customers. Through our partnership with GCash, GSukli gives customers a practical way to put their sukli to use while making the checkout experience even more seamless for every in-store visit,” said Bryan C. Lim, vice president for business development of bench.

For Filipinos who continue to use cash for daily purchases, GSukli provides an easy way to turn barya and sukli into immediately usable digital money. As digital financial adoption continues to grow across the Philippines, GCash continues to develop solutions that address practical, everyday needs and make digital financial services more accessible to more Filipinos.

How to use GSukli when paying using cash:

1. Give your registered GCash mobile number to the cashier.

2. Receive your GSukli in GCash for change amounts up to PHP 199.99.

3. Check your SMS for confirmation of the transfer.

For more information on GSukli, please visit the GCash Help Center: help.gcash.com.

 Fuse Financing Inc. head of B2B Kevin Yu  highlights the importance of accessible financing for MSMEs during a series of events, including the DTI National Forum on Strengthening MSME Disaster Resilience 2026.

Limited access to formal financing continues to hinder the growth of the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Although they make up 99.6% of businesses and employ over 65% of the workforce, many still struggle to access credit due to limited collateral, insufficient financial records, and a lack of credit history, preventing them from expanding and contributing more fully to inclusive economic growth.

Kevin Yu, head of B2B at GCash lending arm Fuse Financing Inc., shared these insights in a series of events for MSMEs, including the DTI National Forum on Strengthening MSME Disaster Resilience 2026, the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation Convergence Summit on Economic Resilience, GoNegosyo MSME Summit 2026, and Inquirer ESG Connect.

During these engagements, Yu underscored the need to close this persistent financing gap through inclusive and data-driven financing solutions for MSMEs.

The core of this effort lies in the integration of financial services within the GCash ecosystem. Through GCash for Business, entrepreneurs can accept digital payments and manage transactions, allowing them to build a digital financial footprint. This generates alternative data that helps financing providers better understand business performance and extend credit more responsibly.

Yu explained that this model enables access for underserved entrepreneurs, including first-time formal borrowers. Eligible businesses can access financing through GLoan Negosyo, available through the GCash app with loans of up to ₱350,000, or through the GCash for Business Portal, where qualified merchants can access loans of up to ₱2 million. These financing options support inventory purchases, working capital, and expansion plans.

“Financial resilience is more than access to loans. Business owners need solutions that help them earn, manage, protect, and grow their income,” Yu said.

He added that fintech plays a complementary role alongside traditional financial institutions. Digital platforms improve access, speed, and convenience, while banks continue to support businesses that require larger financing as they scale.

To strengthen long-term outcomes, GCash also emphasizes financial education. Programs such as the Wais Tindera Caravan bring practical knowledge directly to communities, helping entrepreneurs make informed decisions, manage cash flow, and build confidence in using digital financial tools.

Moreover, Fuse Financing underscores responsible lending as a core principle. Its fully digital collections process follows a zero-tolerance policy against harassment, ensuring that borrowers are treated fairly throughout their financial journey.

“No single organization can close the financing gap alone. By combining accessible financing, practical knowledge, and strong partnerships, we can help MSMEs build resilient businesses that create jobs, strengthen communities, and contribute to a more inclusive Philippine economy,” Yu added.

That commitment to responsible growth is reflected in how Fuse Financing supports its borrowers. As of the second quarter of 2026, the company has disbursed  ₱451 billion in loans to 11.5 million borrowers nationwide. One in three borrowers is an NMSME. 

For GCash and Fuse Financing, these numbers point to more than growth. They reflect a widening circle of Filipino entrepreneurs who now have the financial tools to build stronger, more resilient businesses.

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