A story of a dreamer who fell short, to a lawyer who went the distance, fueled by perseverance and a GLoan

Not every dream unfolds exactly as planned, and the journey toward making it a reality isn't always a straight path. Sometimes it calls for unwavering perseverance. Other times, it means finding the courage to take a second chance. And often, true progress comes from knowing when to ask for help so you can keep moving forward.

It's this spirit of courage and perseverance that takes center stage in the sixth installment of this year’s #GCashStories, the flagship campaign from the country’s No. 1 Finance Super App and Largest Cashless Ecosystem. Themed “Kasama Mo Mangarap,” this latest chapter reveals the deeply inspiring real-life journey of Atty. Sheila Gomez—a former legal aide whose lifelong dream of becoming an attorney was realized through sheer determination and responsible financial choices, with the timely support of GLoan.

“Our GCash Stories campaign showed us that the most powerful script is that of real life,” said Neil Trinidad, Chief Marketing Officer of Mynt. “Progress becomes possible when people are given the right support at the right time. At GCash, we believe our role goes far beyond providing financial tools—we want to empower Filipinos to keep moving forward. Every Filipino deserves to dream and deserves a second chance in pursuing just that. We take immense pride in Sheila’s journey because it is living proof that digital financial inclusion doesn't just solve a temporary problem; it turns everyday obstacles into real, lasting possibilities - dreams achieved.”

More Than Just a Story: The #GCashStories Movement

GCash Stories is a celebration of real Filipinos whose journeys remind us that progress is often built through everyday acts of courage, determination, and hope. Over the last three years, the campaign has evolved into a nationwide movement that transcends storytelling, capturing a rich collection of lived experiences that reflect the aspirations, challenges, and triumphs of underserved communities across the country and their individual stories of progress with the help of GCash.

By welcoming Atty. Sheila into this portfolio, GCash continues to spark vital conversations about financial inclusion. Her story adds to a powerful legacy of real-life breakthroughs previously featured by the brand:

• Cocoy, a laid-off bartender who turned into a successful business owner with the help of GLoan.

• Alma, a well-loved university employee who lost her home to Typhoon Ulysses but rebuilt it through community crowdfunding via GCash Send Money.

• Turing, a drag queen and breadwinner who sustained her family during the pandemic by digital tipping via GCash QR.

• Adz, a champion para-athlete who raised funds via GCash Send Money to advocate for the new generation of para-athletes.

• Rhea Inayan, Ang Bayani ng Barangay from Bacolod City, who empowered a community through her GCash Pera Outlet, bringing essential financial services directly to her neighborhood

“At the heart of every GCash Story is a real story of financial progress,” said Lourdes Batac, GCash Head for Communication Strategy. "At the end of the day, GCash’s own narrative is not just about the products we’ve made, but how our products have transformed the lives of everyday Filipinos. We owe it to Cocoy, Ate Alma, Turing, Adz, Rhea, and Sheila for allowing GCash to share their story so that more Filipinos today can clearly imagine their own financial progress journey.”

Meet Atty. Sheila Gomez: From Dreamer to Lawyer

For Atty. Sheila Gomez, becoming a lawyer was a dream built on years of sacrifice. While working full-time as a legal aide, she tirelessly juggled the demands of her day job with the rigorous, exhausting requirements of law school, balancing long days at work with late nights of studying.

However, as law school expenses began to pile up alongside everyday living costs, Sheila faced an overwhelming reality familiar to millions of working Filipinos: the heavy weight of financial anxiety. Every enrollment and exam season brought a persistent fear of falling short. Rather than putting her life's calling on hold, she made the decision to turn to GLoan as her silent, reliable personal partner.

The loan provided her with the immediate financial flexibility to cover her law school expenses, allowing her to stay completely focused on her goals without compromising her self-worth or hiding in shame. Armed with this support, she successfully passed the Bar. Today, she continues her journey of financial progress as an active user of GCredit and GGives, proudly declaring, "Ako si Sheila, at ito ang aking GCash Story."

“One of the biggest lessons I learned is that perseverance doesn't always mean doing everything on your own. Sometimes, it means having the courage to seek the right support,” Atty. Sheila Gomez shared during a fireside chat. “It's unfortunate that many Filipinos see loans in a negative light, but when used responsibly and with a clear purpose, borrowing can be a powerful tool and a smart investment that moves you closer to your dreams. I'm grateful that GLoan gave me that opportunity.”

Fuse and GCash: Championing Fair and Respectful Lending

Atty. Sheila’s story highlights a critical reality in today’s economic landscape. Amidst inflation and a challenging local economy, many Filipinos still face predatory lenders or rigid, traditional systems that leave them feeling trapped rather than helped.

Celebrating its 10th year, Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash, steps in to actively destigmatize the lending category, championing fair, transparent, and respectful financial practices. Proving that responsible lending should empower the borrower, protect their dignity, and provide a clear path forward, not a cycle of debt. 

“Since our inception, we have pursued our mission: 'Fair loans that spark better every day for all Filipinos,'” said Tony Isidro, President and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc. “Everything we do rests on three core commitments: to provide fast, collateral-free loans; to ensure a safe and secure credit experience; and most importantly, to enable Filipinos to borrow with dignity. When paired with discipline and perseverance, responsible borrowing becomes a stepping stone to lasting financial progress.”

Enabling Every Filipino's Journey Toward a Better Future

While Sheila's triumph takes center stage, hers represents the millions of borrowers who turn to GLoan to continue their education, scale their livelihoods, support their families, and overcome unexpected challenges.

Through these collective experiences, GCash lives out its ultimate vision of Finance for All. By meeting Filipinos exactly where they are, GCash reinforces the universal truth that every individual has the right to dream and achieve those dreams, no matter their socioeconomic situation.

For more information on GLoan and to watch Atty. Sheila’s full GCash Story, visit https://youtu.be/CHrVTlAhmRI.

Inspired by Atty. Sheila and ready to move forward? Access GLoan through the GCash dashboard or find it under “Borrow.” Download the GCash app on the App Store or Google Play now and jumpstart your dreams. Kaya Mo. I-GCash mo.

Through the GBayanihan platform, GCash empowers NGOs to amplify their advocacy and extend their reach

Fourteen non-governmental organizations (NGO) recently joined GBayanihan, the in-app donation platform of GCash, expanding the reach to more communities in need.

GBayanihan enables users to donate directly to accredited partner organizations through a simple and secure process. Through GBayanihan, GCash continues to use digital technology to promote financial inclusion and enable Filipinos to create meaningful social impact through everyday digital transactions.

The digitalization of bayanihan

For many NGOs, the challenge is not the willingness of Filipinos to help, but making donations easy and accessible. Traditional fundraising often relies on offline channels and manual processes, which can limit reach and slow down support.

GBayanihan helps address this by making donations available through a platform Filipinos use every day. With just a few taps, users can support causes they care about, while NGOs can receive donations faster and respond more quickly to those in need.

The signing event marked another step in expanding the GBayanihan ecosystem, bringing together new and existing partners to make giving more accessible. During the event, GCash also shared its one-year impact results, highlighting how digital donations have supported communities across the country. The onboarding of additional NGO partners signals growing confidence in the platform’s reach and security, further expanding the ecosystem and enabling more organizations to benefit from digital financial services. 

With the theme “Sama-sama sa Iisang Layunin,” the country’s leading finance superapp formalized the collaboration with newly onboarded NGO partners: Andres Soriano Foundation, GMA Kapuso Foundation, Kythe Foundation, Lamdag Foundation, Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation, Philippine Foundation for Cultural and Educational Development, and Uygongco Foundation, strengthening the growing network of organizations that can now receive support through a simple, in-app experience.

Other partners include ABS-CBN Foundation, Alalay sa Kaunlaran Inc., Angat Buhay, Ayala Foundation, Cancer Treatment and Support Foundation Inc., Couples for Christ - Answering the Cry of the Poor, PHINMA Foundation, the Philippine Red Cross, Save the Children, Virlanie Foundation, and World Vision Philippines.

“By welcoming our new and existing partners to the GBayanihan platform, we are opening a secure, digital gateway that bridges the gap between millions of generous Filipinos and the vital grassroots causes that need their help right now,” said Winsley Bangit, Group Head of New Businesses at Mynt, the parent company of GCash.

The GBayanihan platform also raised over PHP 8 million from June 8–30, 2026, collecting aid from over 10,000 Filipinos who contributed to disaster relief efforts.

A platform built for real impact

Recent GBayanihan initiatives include mobilizing donations for earthquake-affected communities in Mindanao, where speed and coordination are critical. By connecting with organizations ready to respond, the platform helped streamline how aid reaches those on the ground.

This was made possible through partners under the Disaster Response category, which is just one of the many advocacies available in the app, giving users a wide variety of causes they can support. 

Organizations can onboard to the GBayanihan platform by submitting the required accreditation, legal, financial, tax, and compliance documents, completing GCash onboarding requirements, and signing a Memorandum of Agreement. Applications are reviewed to ensure regulatory compliance and organizational legitimacy before approval and activation on the platform.

For more information on GBayanihan and other initiatives, please visit www.gcash.com.

Thousands of runners set to take over Filinvest City, Alabang on August 2

Filinvest City in Alabang is set to come alive on August 2 as thousands of runners gather for the EastWest Dream Run Manila. With less than two weeks to go before the event, those who have yet to sign up are encouraged to register now.

The Manila event marks the opening leg of the EastWest Dream Run 2026, which expands to four cities this year following a successful 2025 debut that drew around 14,000 runners, dreamers, and families from Manila, Cebu, and Davao.

But first, all roads lead to Alabang.

Set against the backdrop of Filinvest City’s tree-lined streets, open spaces, and runner-friendly environment, the Manila leg promises a refreshing race experience for beginners, seasoned athletes, families, and even fur parents.

Participants can choose from 1K Dog Run, 3K, 5K, 10K, and 21K categories and receive race-day essentials and exclusive giveaways, including a race bib, race singlet, dog bandana, finisher’s medal, loot bag, finisher’s towel, and a 21K finisher’s shirt for eligible runners. 

Adding to the excitement is a race village packed with activities and partner experiences. Runners can cool down at the Dyson Cooling Zone and Cooling Booth, recharge at the EastWest Horizons Club Recovery Lounge, and enjoy treats, giveaways, and activations from event partners and sponsors, including Filinvest, Mimosa Plus, Visa, EastWest Ageas, foodpanda, Ford, Dyson, Nutribullet, Saucony, Colgate-Palmolive, Aqua Planet, Mizuno, REV, Puregold, Mogu Mogu, Maris Pure Drinking Water, Daily Fix, and Salonpas, among others.

Participants can also spend their Dream Run weekend at Quest Plus Conference Center Manila, the event's official hotel partner, which offers up to 60% off room rates exclusively for registered participants. 

EastWest credit cardholders can also enjoy a Php 500 rebate with a minimum Php 3,000 Dream Run registration spend.

After Manila, the Dream Run continues to Clark on August 30, before making its way to Iloilo and Cagayan de Oro, completing EastWest’s  four-city Dream Run series. 

For now, however, the spotlight belongs to Manila, and with race day fast approaching and thousands expected to join, interested participants are encouraged to register as soon as possible at www.eastwestbanker.com/dream-run-2026. 

THREE YEARS AT NO. 1. Jollibee has been voted the No. 1 Best Fast Food Fried Chicken in the U.S. in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for the third consecutive year, reinforcing Chickenjoy’s reputation for being the consistently crispy, juicy, and delicious fried chicken in one of the world’s most competitive quick-service restaurant markets.

Key Highlights:

• Jollibee’s has been named the No. 1 Best Fast Food Fried Chicken in the U.S. for the third consecutive year. 

• The recognition reflects continued consumer preference for Chickenjoy in the U.S., one of the world’s most competitive quick-service restaurant markets. 

• The three-year winning streak reinforces Jollibee’s reputation for consistently delivering superior taste and quality. 

• The recognition strengthens Jollibee’s growing appeal among customers in the U.S.and around the world, reinforcing the brand’s momentum as it continues to expand internationally. 

MANILA, Philippines. July 20, 2026. – Jollibee has once again been hailed the No. 1 Best Fast Food Fried Chicken in the U.S. in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, securing the top spot for the third consecutive year.

Voted on by USA TODAY readers, the latest recognition reaffirms Jollibee Chickenjoy’s reputation for consistently delivering the crispy, juicy, and delicious taste that customers love in the highly competitive U.S quick-service restaurant market. Its third straight win also shows that Chickenjoy fried chicken’s exceptional taste is not a one-time achievement, but a quality standard that Jollibee continues to uphold.

“Receiving this recognition for the third consecutive year is especially meaningful because it reflects the consistency of the quality, taste, and customer experience that we work hard to deliver with every serving in Chickenjoy,” said Ernesto Tanmantiong, Jollibee Group Global President and Chief Executive Officer. “It gives us even greater confidence in Jollibee’s ability to deepen customer trust and brand love in more markets, as we continue bringing the products and experiences that have made our brand a source of joy for many families.”

A consistent standard of superior taste

Known for its golden, crispy exterior and juicy, delicious chicken, Chickenjoy fried chicken continues to earn the loyalty of customers across markets. 

The win marks another milestone in Jollibee’s growing list of international accolades, having previously been named: The Best Fast-Food Fried Chicken by Eater.com (2022) for Chickenjoy, and Best Chain Fried Chicken in America by Thrillist (2021).

With around 100 stores in North America and over 1,800 locations worldwide, Jollibee has become one of the fastest-growing restaurant brands globally. The brand continues to attract fans across cultures through its joyful customer experience and crave-worthy offerings, with recognitions such as USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Award adding to its global brand momentum.

“We are deeply grateful to the USA TODAY readers who voted for Jollibee and to our loyal customers who continue to share their love for the brand,” said Maribeth dela Cruz, Jollibee Philippine Brands North America President. “This recognition also reflects the dedication of our teams who prepare and serve Chickenjoy every day, helping ensure a joyful and satisfying experience with every visit. It inspires us to keep delivering the Jollibee experience people love, while introducing it to even more customers across North America and beyond.”

The USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards feature recommendations across food, travel, destinations, and experiences in the United States. Nominees are selected by experts, while the final rankings are determined through public voting.

View the complete USA TODAY 10Best Fast Food Fried Chicken list. 

Pru Life UK Head of Brand & Integrated Marketing Communications Kathryn Cajucom (middle) and Manager for Communications and Public Relations Lalaine Almazan (1st from right) accepted the recognitions at the Insurance Asia Awards.

As Pru Life UK celebrates 30 years in the Philippines, the company marks another milestone in its journey of protecting Filipino families and helping more communities access meaningful financial security. 

At the 2026 Insurance Asia Awards, Pru Life UK received two prestigious recognitions: International Life Insurer of the Year - Philippines, its sixth consecutive win in the category, and New Takaful Insurance Product of the Year - Philippines for PRUTerm Lindungi, the country’s first Shariah-compliant Family Takaful product. 

These recognitions affirm Pru Life UK’s continued leadership in customer-centric growth, innovation, and financial inclusion. Since beginning its journey in 1996, Pru Life UK has grown with the needs of Filipinos, currently supported by more than 35,000 agents and a nationwide network of over 200 branches, business centres, and general agency offices. 

In FY2025, the company sustained strong performance, recording ₱10.0 billion in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent and securing a market-leading 13% share in new business sales. Total premium income rose to ₱52.8 billion, ranking second industry-wide with a 13% market share. Today, Pru Life UK insures close to two million lives and serves nearly one million policyholders. 

“Winning International Life Insurer of the Year for the sixth year in a row is both an honour and a responsibility. As we celebrate 30 years in the Philippines, this recognition inspires us to continue making protection more accessible, relevant, and meaningful for Filipinos,” said Kathryn Cajucom, Vice President for Branding and Integrated Marketing Communications at Pru Life UK. 

Expanding protection for more Filipinos 

Pru Life UK’s recognition for New Takaful Insurance Product of the Year - Philippines highlights its pioneering role in bringing Islamic insurance to the country. 

Following its milestone as the Philippines’ first licensed Takaful operator, Pru Life UK has been building awareness and trust in Takaful through education sessions, grassroots engagement, and consultations with Islamic religious leaders, media, financial advisers, and communities, particularly in Mindanao. 

At the heart of this effort is PRUTerm Lindungi, the Philippines’ first Shariah-compliant Family Takaful product. Designed to support underserved communities, it reflects Pru Life UK’s commitment to inclusive protection that respects diverse needs, values, and ways of life. 

Looking ahead with purpose 

Pru Life UK continues to deliver solutions that meet customers where they are. In 2025, it launched traditional products that provide protection and  payout, alongside wealth solutions, complementing its strong investment-linked insurance portfolio. 

Beyond products, the company continues to support financial education, climate resilience, health, and disaster preparedness through Prudence Foundation initiatives, including Adopt-a-Madrasah and Cha-Ching.  

As it marks three decades in the Philippines, Pru Life UK remains focused on its purpose: to be partners for every life and protectors for every future. 

“Our work continues, with Filipinos at the heart of everything we do,” Cajucom added. 

Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) has formally renewed its partnership with homegrown fast-food kiosk chain LC BigMak, marking a new chapter in a business relationship built on nearly a decade of collaboration, shared standards, and service to Filipino consumers.

The renewed agreement, formalized through a ceremonial contract signing held at the PCPPI Sto. Tomas Plant in Batangas, will make PCPPI the exclusive beverage partner of LC BigMak across its more than 850 outlets nationwide.

The signing was attended by senior leaders from PCPPI, PepsiCo, and LC BigMak, including PCPPI President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Phyo Phyu Noe, Chief Commercial Officer Lyndon Cuadra, and General Manager for Food Service and National Development Joseph Michael Go; PepsiCo General Manager Aditya Sheoran, Chief Marketing Officer Nicole Villarojo, and Franchise Lead Juris Melencio; and LC BigMak Chairman and Founder Francis Dy, Founder Edna Dy, and CEO Mark Dy.

For PCPPI, the renewed partnership reflects the company’s continued focus on strengthening food service relationships by delivering reliable supply, consistent execution, and stronger value to customers and consumers.

“This is not a cold beginning. It is a return. A renewal. A second chapter,” said Phyo. “We will serve LC BigMak with the seriousness that your history deserves, with the discipline that your scale requires, and with the ambition that your future warrants.”

Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Lucena City, LC BigMak has grown from a family-built enterprise into one of the country’s most recognizable fast-food burger kiosk networks. Its name draws from the initials of Maxima and Kimsuy, the parents of its founders, reflecting the family roots behind the brand.

Mark Dy of LC BigMak, described the signing as a meaningful renewal between two brands with a long-standing history together.

“We are proud to partner again with a globally recognized brand like Pepsi,” Dy said. “To our partners in Pepsi, thank you for your renewed trust and collaboration. We look forward to building an even stronger partnership in the years ahead.”

Through the partnership, PCPPI and LC BigMak aim to enhance the experience across LC BigMak’s nationwide network by pairing the chain’s familiar, value-driven food offerings with PepsiCo beverages served consistently across its outlets.

The renewed partnership also underscores PCPPI’s broader commitment to serving more customers through disciplined execution, stronger route-to-market support, and partnerships that create value in everyday consumer occasions.

PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the Philippines, with products such as Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Sting, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Milkis, Chum Churum, Saero, and Premier. More information about PCPPI and its products is available via www.pepsiphilippines.com.

Manila, Philippines — McDonald’s Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to inclusion by participating in major Pride Marches nationwide. More importantly, the company fosters a safe and empowering workplace where both employees and customers can show up as their Best Me, regardless of who they are and whom they love.

“For us, ‘Love Ko All, Celebrate All,’ is not just a Pride Month message, but a culture we live and strengthen every day,” said Ben Marasigan, McDonald’s Philippines Human Capital Group Vice President. “At McDonald’s Philippines, we provide equal opportunities for all. With over 75,000 employees nationwide, we make it a priority to ensure that everyone feels supported in being their ‘best me’—regardless of gender, background, or personal identity.”

Marching with Pride

As a show of support and solidarity, McDonald’s Philippines head office and store employees marched alongside thousands of Filipinos at the Love Lab4n Pride Festival in Quezon City and the Mandaue City Pride March. The brand also extended its support to other Pride celebrations nationwide, including the Metro Manila Pride March, the Cebu Grand Pride Parade, and the Kahilwayan Pride Run in Cagayan de Oro City

For every employee who joined the march, McDonald’s Philippines pledged donations to a partner organization that advocates for safe and inclusive spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community. In addition, the company engaged with the community through recruitment initiatives such as the Philippine Financial and Inter-Industry Pride Karir Career Fair, reaching over 450 potential applicants.

Rainbow arches bearing the message “Love Ko All” also stood proudly at McDonald’s Ligaya Quezon Avenue in Quezon City and McDonald’s North Reclamation Area in Cebu City—serving as visible reminders that every McDonald’s store is a welcoming space for all. Customers can still catch these installations until July 13.

More than the celebrations, McDonald’s Philippines’ support for the LGBTQIA+ community extends far beyond Pride Month. Its commitment to workplace inclusivity is embedded in the company’s operations and culture—reflected in how it supports its people and creates opportunities for them to grow and thrive as their best selves.

Inclusive Hiring Practices

For 45 years, McDonald’s Philippines has remained committed to investing in its people. Since Chairman and Founder Dr. George T. Yang opened the first McDonald’s store in 1981, managers and service crew members have been directly hired, providing job security without the practice of contractualization. 

Today, the company supports over 45,000 working students nationwide, offering flexible work arrangements that allow them to earn an income while completing their education. McDonald’s Philippines also works closely with local government units to expand employment opportunities to persons with disabilities and senior citizens, helping ensure more inclusive access to meaningful work. Beyond employment, McDonald’s equips its people with opportunities to grow through world-class learning and development programs, delivering up to 2.8 million training hours across all levels.

McDonald’s Philippines invites individuals from all walks of life to start a career with the company where they can grow, succeed, and be part of a workplace that values what makes them unique. Learn more about starting your journey at McDonald’s Philippines Careers Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/McDoPHCareers )