Hundreds of sari-sari store owners, vendors, and other small business owners join the Wais Tindera Caravan in Cebu

Over 200 nano, micro, small, and medium enterprises (NMSMEs), including sari-sari store owners and vendors gathered at the Wais Tindera Caravan in Cebu to deepen their understanding of digitalization and responsible borrowing. 

In celebration of MSME Month, GCash reinforces its commitment to being the trusted growth partner of Filipino NMSMEs, powering every stage of their entrepreneurial journey. GCash continues to champion local businesses by providing easier access to the integrated financial and digital tools they need to sustain their livelihoods, navigate uncertainty, and drive the Philippine economy.

The Wais Tindera Caravan serves as the Financial Literacy x Business Literacy (FinLit x BizLit) of GCash and Fuse Financing designed for Filipino micro-entrepreneurs. The program provides lessons on budgeting, pricing, inventory management, sales tracking, and business growth. The caravan also tackled the risks of predatory lending as many micro-retailers still rely on informal lenders, including the “5-6” system, which often carries high interest rates and can lead to cycles of debt. 

Digital financial tools were also introduced, like GLoan Negosyo—a Fuse cash loan product designed to meet NMSMEs' urgent funding needs—and GCash Pera Outlet Plus (GPO Plus), which enables store owners to earn extra income by offering cash-in, cash-out, bills payment, and other digital transactions to their communities.

"Through the Wais Tindera Caravan, we aim to equip NMSMEs with the practical financial and business skills needed to make informed decisions, manage their finances effectively, and adopt responsible borrowing practices to grow their businesses sustainably." said Kevin Yu, Head of B2B lending at Fuse Financing.

Responsible Borrowing for NMSMEs

A key focus of the Cebu leg was responsible borrowing. Participants learned how to assess whether a loan is necessary for business growth, borrow within their capacity to repay, and use credit for productive purposes such as inventory expansion. 

Sessions also covered how to understand loan terms, interest rates, and repayment obligations before borrowing. The program highlighted how formal lending solutions can support business growth when used with proper planning.

Through this campaign, entrepreneurs learned about excessive interest rates, lack of transparency, and unsustainable repayment terms. 

Partner in every stage of growth

The caravan underscores the commitment of GCash to empowering Filipino MSMEs at every stage of growth. By introducing innovations like GCash SoundPay Plus and GCash EasyPOS, the platform helps small businesses seamlessly adopt digital QR and card payments, driving operational efficiency.

Beyond accessible payment solutions, GCash fosters grassroots, community-wide economic growth. Through GCash Pera Outlet Plus, neighborhood merchants can earn extra income by providing vital Cash In and Cash Out services to their localities, while accessible insurance offerings protect these grassroots businesses from unexpected financial shocks.

The caravan, in addition, addressed the digital trust gap as well among small business owners who may be hesitant to adopt digital financial services. Sessions explained how digital payments work, how to use GCash safely and securely, how responsible use of digital tools can help build a financial track record, and gain access to formal financial products and services.

The Wais Tindera Caravan supports the “Finance for All” mission of GCash. Financial literacy remains central to the program, with participants learning skills they can apply immediately and tools they can integrate easily. 

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

Discovery Samal marks its third anniversary with a celebration that reflects the values that have shaped the resort since its opening: giving back to the community, honoring the people behind every guest experience, and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Mindanao. As the resort commemorates three years of meaningful milestones, it also looks ahead with renewed commitment to creating authentic experiences that connect guests to the heart of the island.

Giving Back to the Community

True to its belief that hospitality extends beyond welcoming guests, Discovery Samal began its anniversary celebrations by giving back to communities in need. In partnership with the Philippine Red Cross, the resort held a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative in Malapatan, Sarangani, supporting families through its Hot Meals on Hot Wheels program and donating clothes, linens, and other essential items. The initiative reflects Discovery Samal's enduring commitment to uplifting grassroots communities and creating a positive impact beyond the resort's shores.

For Discovery Samal, celebrating milestones means creating meaningful change where it matters most. By working alongside local organizations and extending support to communities in need, the resort continues to live out its purpose of serving with compassion, generosity, and genuine care.

Celebrating the People Behind the Experience

The anniversary also honors the people who have made Discovery Samal's journey possible. Through a series of anniversary Sportsfest activities, employees came together to strengthen teamwork, camaraderie, and wellness — values that continue to define the resort's culture. More than friendly competition, the event recognized the dedication of Discovery Samal's Guest Experience Makers (GEMs), whose passion and commitment have helped create memorable stays for guests over the past three years.

At Discovery Samal, exceptional hospitality begins with its people. By investing in employee well-being and fostering a supportive workplace, the resort continues to build a culture where service comes from genuine care and meaningful human connection.

Honoring Mindanao Through Culinary Storytelling

Continuing the anniversary festivities, Discovery Samal welcomed members of the media and key opinion leaders to "Three Cheers for Three Years," a Media Appreciation Night celebrating the partnerships that have helped tell the resort's story since its opening. 

A highlight of the evening was an exclusive five-course tasting menu inspired by the culinary traditions of the Maguindanaon, Ata, Obu Manuvu, Maranao, and Bagobo-Tagabawa peoples. The specially curated menu also serves as a preview of Discovery Samal's upcoming Kadayawan offerings, inviting guests to experience the region's heritage through contemporary cuisine. Complementing the dining experience were performances that blended tradition with modern artistry. The resonant sounds of the kulintang, paired with contemporary violin performances, created an immersive atmosphere that celebrated the harmony between heritage and innovation.

Anniversary Experiences for Every Guest

Guests are invited to join the celebration through a selection of exclusive anniversary offers available for a limited time. These include a special anniversary room package, Glamping Soirée 3+1 vouchers, restaurant vouchers, and an early-bird promotion at Haribar Lounge, allowing visitors to discover new ways to experience the resort while celebrating this milestone year.

Looking Ahead

As Discovery Samal enters its fourth year, the resort remains steadfast in its commitment to creating meaningful experiences that celebrate the richness of Mindanao and the warmth of its people. Guided by a vision that goes beyond luxury hospitality, the resort continues to invest in its communities, empower its team members, and create authentic experiences that connect guests with the island's culture and traditions. From curated MICE events and social celebrations to immersive seasonal offerings for Halloween and Christmas, Discovery Samal looks forward to welcoming more guests and creating even more memorable moments in the years ahead.

"Three years may seem like a short time, but for us, every day has been shaped by the people who believed in Discovery Samal — from our team members who bring heartfelt hospitality to life, to our partners, our local communities, and every guest who has chosen to celebrate their moments with us. This anniversary is more than a milestone; it's a reminder that growth is most meaningful when it is shared. As we look ahead, we remain committed to creating experiences that honor the rich culture of Mindanao while continuing to give back to the communities that inspire us,” said Jon Bartlett, General Manager of Discovery Samal. 

With three remarkable years behind it, Discovery Samal continues to build on the values that have defined its journey — community, culture, and heartfelt hospitality. 

For many Filipinos, a smartphone has become a daily essential. It's a device that's expected to keep up every single day, not just during the first few months after unboxing. That's why reliability has become one of the smartest things to look for before making a purchase. 

The OPPO A6s 5G is designed with that kind of long-term value in mind, combining features that remain dependable long after day one. It’s ensured to stay smooth, lasts long on a single charge, and can handle everyday accidents, helping users avoid unnecessary upgrades, repairs, and extra expenses over the years. 

Performance That Doesn't Fade With Time

The OPPO A6s 5G’s massive 7000mAh Large Battery provides extended usage for daily activities without frequent charging. Designed to retain over 80% of its original capacity even after 1,800 charging cycles, it delivers over five years of durable battery performance under normal use meaning fewer battery-related concerns, fewer charging interruptions, and potentially delaying the need for costly battery replacements or an entirely new smartphone. Even after years of daily charging, users can continue relying on their OPPO A6s 5G for long workdays, weekend trips, video calls, navigation, and entertainment without worrying that the battery won't last as long as it used to. 

Durability That Helps You Save in the Long Run

Designed for real-world durability, the OPPO A6s 5G comes with IP69 Water and Dust Resistance, offering protection against dust intrusion, powerful water jets, water immersion, and even high-temperature water sprays under certified testing conditions. By reducing the risk of accidental damage, the phone is better equipped to stay reliable over the long term while helping users avoid unexpected repair costs. From unexpected rain showers and dusty commutes to accidental splashes during meals or coffee breaks, the OPPO A6s 5G is built to handle the kinds of situations many users encounter every day.

Ready for a Phone That Goes the Distance?

Choosing a smartphone isn't only about what it can do today. It's about how well it continues to perform years from now. The OPPO A6s 5G proves that long-term reliability is one of the smartest investments a smartphone can offer. Built to stay dependable through everyday use, it helps users maximize the value of their purchase with fewer repairs, fewer replacements, and lower ownership costs over time.

The OPPO A6 Series is available nationwide through OPPO Stores and online via Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and the OPPO Online Store. The OPPO A6 comes in Sakura Pink, Sapphire Blue, and Aurora Gold, while the OPPO A6s 5G is available in Ice White and Cappuccino Brown. The OPPO A6 is available for as low as Php 16,999 (4GB + 256GB) and Php 19,999 (8GB + 256GB) with a Php 1,000 voucher, while the OPPO A6s 5G can be purchased for as low as Php 21,999 (6GB + 128GB) and Php 23,999 (8GB + 256GB) with a Php 2,000 voucher.

For more updates, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com.ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

Health, security, and peace of mind are becoming just as important as compensation

For many Filipinos, work has always been about more than just earning a living. It is about providing for loved ones, building a better future, and creating a sense of security for the people who matter most. Today, however, the way employees evaluate job opportunities is evolving. While salary remains an important consideration, many are increasingly looking beyond compensation such as healthcare access, family protection, financial security, work-life balance, and overall well-being. 

Recent studies suggest this shift is becoming more pronounced. Aon's 2025 Human Capital Employee Sentiment Study found 64% of Filipino employees are considering changing employers within the next year, highlighting the growing importance of creating a workplace experience that goes beyond a paycheck.

Looking for more than a paycheck

For many employees, the priorities are deeply personal. While competitive pay remains important, many today are thinking beyond their next paycheck. They are looking for employers that can support them through different stages of life and provide greater peace of mind for themselves and their families.

For some, that means dependable healthcare coverage that can help ease the financial burden of unexpected medical expenses. With healthcare costs continuing to rise, access to medical consultations, hospitalization coverage, and preventive care has become increasingly important.

Others are looking for benefits that help protect the people who depend on them. For many who support not only their immediate families but also parents and extended relatives, having access to protection and financial security can be a significant consideration when evaluating an employer.

The Growing Importance of Financial Well-Being

Financial well-being is also becoming a growing priority. Employees are increasingly interested in benefits that can help them prepare for major life milestones, manage unforeseen challenges, and build greater confidence about the future.

At the same time, workplace expectations have expanded beyond traditional compensation and healthcare. Many employees now place greater value on work-life balance, mental wellness support, flexibility, and programs that contribute to their overall quality of life. They are looking for employers that recognize them not just as workers, but as individuals with personal responsibilities, aspirations, and goals outside the workplace.

This shift reflects a broader change in how people define a good job. Increasingly, it is not just about how much they earn, but about how supported they feel in building a healthier, more secure, and more fulfilling life.

"More than ever, workers want the confidence that they can focus on their goals, care for their loved ones, and navigate life's challenges knowing they have support when they need it," said Noemi Azura, President and CEO of InLife Benefits.

Supporting the Needs of Today's Workforce

Understanding these evolving needs has long been the focus of InLife Benefits Insurance Company, Inc.

Formerly known as Generali Philippines, InLife Benefits has specialized in group insurance and employee benefits solutions since 1999. Today, the company continues that commitment under a new name, helping employers provide meaningful protection and support for their workforce.

The transition to InLife Benefits reflects a stronger alignment with InLife, one of the country's most established life insurance companies with more than 115 years of serving Filipinos. Combined with the employee benefits expertise built over more than two decades and the global experience of Generali, the company continues to bring together local understanding and international insights to help address the changing needs of today's workforce. Importantly, while the company now carries a new name and visual identity, its commitment to clients remains unchanged. 

Same Commitment, Stronger Foundation

As employee expectations continue to evolve, benefits are becoming more than just a workplace offering. They are increasingly part of how people build security for themselves and their families, pursue their goals with confidence, and prepare for whatever the future may bring.

For InLife Benefits, helping employers provide that support remains at the heart of what it does—continuing a legacy of employee benefits expertise while moving forward under a name that reflects both its heritage and its future. The name may be new, but the mission remains the same: helping protect what matters most.

Manila Water continues to expand its sewer and sanitation coverage with the completion of the North Pasig Package 2 Sta. Monica Network and Lift Station Projects, helping ensure safer, cleaner, and more sustainable communities across its East Zone concession.

The newly completed facilities form part of the North and South Pasig Sewerage System under Manila Water’s Three River Masterplan, a long-term program that supports the rehabilitation of the Pasig-Marikina-San Juan River System while improving access to reliable sanitation services for customers.

The Sta. Monica Network Project includes a 0.165-kilometer gravity main and a 1.38-kilometer force main, with pipe depths ranging from 2 to 5 meters and pipe sizes between 250 and 400 millimeters. These were constructed using open-cut excavation methods to safely and efficiently install critical sewer infrastructure.

More importantly, the project brings significant benefits to communities by helping protect public health and improve overall quality of life. By collecting wastewater from households and conveying it to proper treatment facilities, the system reduces the risk of contamination, minimizes exposure to waterborne pollutants, and supports cleaner neighborhoods. It also plays a vital role in preventing untreated wastewater from flowing into creeks and rivers, helping sustain aquatic ecosystems and restore waterways that communities rely on.

Once fully operational, the broader North and South Pasig Sewerage System is expected to serve around 652,000 residents across Pasig City and parts of Quezon City, Mandaluyong City, Taytay, and Cainta, Rizal. In Pasig City alone, the system will cover about 60 percent of the area, significantly expanding access to safe and reliable sanitation services.

Collected wastewater will be conveyed to the Ilugin Sewage Treatment Plant, where it will undergo proper treatment before discharge to comply with Department of Environment and Natural Resources standards for Class C water quality, making it suitable for aquatic life and contributing to cleaner rivers that can support recreational uses such as boating and fishing.

“By expanding access to proper wastewater treatment, we help ensure that more communities benefit from cleaner surroundings, reduced health risks, and waterways that can sustain life and support future generations," Manila Water Corporate Communications Department Head Dittie Galang said.

The project supports national and local environmental goals, including the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004, the Supreme Court Mandamus on Manila Bay rehabilitation, and ongoing initiatives of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority. It also aligns with Pasig City’s push toward a greener and more environmentally responsible urban environment.

As Manila Water works toward full sanitation coverage in the East Zone, investments in sewerage infrastructure remain a priority. By expanding sewer networks, the company helps ensure that more households are connected to safe wastewater services, reinforcing its commitment to public health, environmental protection, and the long-term recovery of the country’s vital river systems.