Tuesday, May 5, 2026
GCash has blocked over 4,900 fraudulent merchants using "quishing"—a new tactic where scammers use fake QR codes to steal payments
GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app, has intensified its crackdown on illegal merchants, blocking suspicious accounts and scam websites that impersonate official GCash payment pages to defraud users.
With rising transportation costs adding to broader economic pressures, GCash continues to strengthen its anti-fraud efforts as Filipinos become more deliberate with every peso they spend, underscoring the importance of staying vigilant against schemes and safeguarding their hard-earned money.
The rise of “quishing” scams
Recent monitoring has uncovered schemes where fake websites mimic legitimate GCash payment pages and use QRPh codes to collect payments. An example of a growing scam flagged by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is known as “quishing” or QR phishing.
In these schemes, fraudsters exploit QR codes to redirect users to malicious payment pages or steal sensitive information, while misusing official branding to appear credible and deceive users into completing unauthorized transactions.
In some cases, fraudulent QR codes are embedded in posters, emails, receipts, or messages. When scanned, these can redirect users to fake login pages for e-wallets or banks, or even to sites that install harmful software on their devices. As a result, users may unknowingly send money to illegitimate accounts, even if the transaction appears familiar or routine.
What to watch out for
GCash reminds users to stay alert for key warning signs before completing any payment:
· Suspicious website URLs that imitate GCash domains (e.g., “gcash-payments.com”, “gcsh.payment.com” instead of the official “payments.gcash.com”)
· Mismatch in merchant identity, especially when the name displayed is random, incomplete, or unrelated to the actual business (e.g., “XJ82q” or “Merchant_123”)
· Payment pages that feel inconsistent or unfamiliar, despite using GCash or QRPh logos
If any of these signs are present, users should stop the transaction immediately.
Proactive enforcement and collaboration
GCash has blocked wallets linked to these activities and escalated fraudulent sites for takedown. The company continues to work closely with government partners to strengthen enforcement and disrupt online fraud.
These efforts build on GCash’s sustained anti-fraud and cybersecurity campaigns such as GSafe Tayo. In 2025, GCash, in collaboration with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), has blocked over 3,200 merchants linked to illicit activities, which are often used as channels for fraudulent transactions and scams.
“By proactively blocking unauthorized actors and reporting them to our regulators and authorities, we are helping protect Filipinos and maintain trust in the country’s digital financial ecosystem,” said Miguel Geronilla, Chief Information Security Officer at GCash.
“Scammers are evolving alongside digital payments,” said Miguel Geronilla, Chief Information Security Officer at GCash. “We have zero tolerance for these actors and are actively blocking and reporting them to protect our users.”
“Protecting users is at the core of our platform,” Geronilla added. “We will continue to strengthen our safeguards and work hand-in-hand with the government to keep the ecosystem safe.”
Protecting every peso
GCash urges users to verify website URLs and merchant details before completing transactions and to stop immediately if anything appears suspicious.
GCash users can report suspected scams through the GCash Help Center at help.gcash.com by chatting with Gigi and selecting “I want to report a scam”, or by calling the official GCash hotline at 2882.
Users may also report incidents to the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group at (02) 8414-1560 / 0998-598-8116 or acg@pnp.gov.ph, and to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) via hotline 1326, mobile 0991-481-4225, or report@cicc.gov.ph.
By staying vigilant and using trusted platforms, Filipinos can better protect their funds and ensure that every peso counts.
More information is available at www.gcash.com
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Manila, Philippines —Is it still possible to go for extra rice or extra ulam and get the much-needed busog without overspending?
As Pinoys continue to look for affordable options in the midst of skyrocketing food prices, McDonald’s Philippines announces that its best-selling McSavers Sulit Busog Meals will remain affordable, with PhP99 and PhP129 “Inextrahan” options for every budget-conscious customer. Whether they go for extra rice or extra ulam, customers can still expect better value for money, offering heavier fill without straining their budget.
The “Extra Rice” option for McSavers Sulit-Busog favorites remains affordable at PhP99. With two cups of rice and a regular drink to go with the Golden Curry Fillet, Crispy Chicken Fillet a la King, or Mushroom Pepper Steak Meal, customers are sure to enjoy a satisfying, filling meal without paying extra.
The “Extra Ulam” option is equally attractive. At only PhP129, the two-piece Crispy Chicken Fillet and Mushroom Pepper Steak Meals offer great value to customers who prefer options that are “tipid, pero hindi tinipid.”
“Times are challenging for a lot of Filipino families, and consumers are now even more conscious that every peso spent has to be worth it,” said Ada Lazaro, McDonald’s Philippines Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. “The ‘Inextrahan’ options in our McSavers Sulit-Busog menu are our way of assuring our customers that at McDo, we constantly keep their budget and preferences in mind.”
She added: “Whether you’re Team Kanin or Team Ulam, there’s a McSavers Sulit-Busog meal for you, offering good taste, great value, and a feel-good experience that McDonald’s customers love.”
The Inextrahan options for McSavers Sulit-Busog Meals are available via dine-in, take-out, or drive-through.
MANILA, PH – April 2026 – Sun Life Philippines took part in the Go Negosyo Women Summit 2026, reaffirming its commitment to empowering Filipina entrepreneurs through financial education, meaningful conversations, and access to practical financial tools.
The Women Summit serves as a platform to celebrate the resilience of Filipina entrepreneurs while equipping them with the knowledge, support, and networks they need to grow sustainable businesses. Through its collaboration with Go Negosyo, Sun Life Philippines supported the summit’s mission by offering on-site financial consultations and insights designed to help women entrepreneurs build lasting wealth – not just for their businesses, but for their families and future as well.
A key highlight of the event was the talk of Vange Uy-Cuaki, a multi-awarded branch manager of Sun Life Philippines, who served as a resource speaker at the summit. Her session, titled “From Kita to Pera: Turning Income into Wealth,” walked participants through an important mindset shift – one that goes beyond earning and focuses on intentional financial decision-making.
Uy-Cuaki explained the distinction between kita and pera. “Kita is the result of hard work and effort – whether it comes from a salary, a thriving business, or multiple income streams,” Uy-Cuaki explains. “Pera, on the other hand, is what that income becomes through discipline and choices, reflecting how well a person saves, plans, and grows their money. The transformation from the former to the latter is where true wealth begins.”
During her session, Uy-Cuaki shared principles to help women entrepreneurs turn income into lasting wealth:
• Live below your means, regardless of how much you earn, to create room for savings and future opportunities.
• Save and invest early, even in small amounts, to take advantage of time and compounding growth.
• Build an emergency fund to stay financially prepared for unexpected challenges. • Practice discipline and consistency, as wealth is built through everyday financial decisions not one-time wins.
Drawing from personal experience, Uy-Cuaki shared that she joined Sun Life at age 34, and at age 45, now holds multiple insurance and investment policies. This reinforces that disciplined financial planning can lead to long-term security, no matter what age you start.
She concluded her session with a powerful message that resonated deeply with the audience: “True wealth is built on discipline, heart, and faith.” For Uy-Cuaki, financial success is not just about numbers; it is about values, consistency, and purpose.
Sun Life Philippines’ participation in the Go Negosyo Women Summit reflects its broader advocacy of promoting financial literacy and empowering entrepreneurs through sound financial guidance. By collaborating with Go Negosyo, Sun Life continues to support initiatives that help Filipina entrepreneurs turn today’s hard-earned income into lasting wealth so they can live brighter lives, today and in the years to come.
To know more about Sun Life’s products and services for business owners, visit
sunlife.co/entrepfinancialplan or talk to a Sun Life Financial Advisor today.
Paying government fees in Cotabato City has become faster, safer, and more convenient as the local government unit (LGU) officially rolled out cashless payment options with GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance superapp and largest cashless ecosystem.
Since the partnership launch in May 2024, the initiative has introduced Scan to Pay and Bills Pay features that allow citizens to settle local taxes and fees directly from their mobile phones using the GCash app. This effort eliminates long lines at city offices and reduces the risks that come with manual cash transactions.
The move addresses long-standing challenges in an LGU’s collection system: prolonged queues, cash-handling inefficiencies, limited payment channels, and the lack of digital infrastructure. These issues have affected operations, LGU employees, and constituents.
Through the Scan to Pay feature, users can simply scan a QR code displayed in city offices to pay instantly. The Bills Pay feature, on the other hand, allows them to settle fees remotely anytime, removing the need to line up in person. Together, these features offer flexibility and accessibility for Cotabateños, while helping the local government reduce congestion and improve transparency in its financial processes.
The cashless system also enhances safety by minimizing physical cash handling and potential errors in manual recording. This ensures more accurate reconciliation and efficient fund management.
“The integration of GCash in Cotabato City is a testament to the powerful impact of digital transformation on local governance. By replacing cash with a secure, efficient, and transparent payment system, we are actively supporting the city in streamlining its administrative services and fostering a better experience for every constituent,” said Cleo Santos, Vice President and Head for Public Sector at GCash.
The partnership between Cotabato City and GCash forms part of a broader effort to digitize government payments in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), reinforcing the region’s ongoing digital transformation. In his State of the City Address, Mayor Bruce Matabalao said, “Over 1,200 market vendors and tricycle operators are now enrolled in PalengQR Ph Plus, and daily transactions have increased by 30 percent within the first year of implementation—reflecting strong local acceptance of cashless commerce.”
The program holds strong relevance for BARMM as the region continues to strengthen its economic foundations and expand its digital capacity amid ongoing development efforts. In Cotabato City, one of BARMM’s primary urban hubs, the initiative plays a key role in advancing financial inclusion by enabling residents to more conveniently and securely access essential services and government assistance through digital platforms.
By embracing this cashless ecosystem, Cotabato City is addressing operational bottlenecks commonly faced by LGUs while taking a crucial step toward inclusive digital adoption—empowering citizens to transact securely and confidently using technology they already have in their hands.
This collaboration reflects the growing role of digital finance in improving local governance, with GCash continuing to support local government units nationwide in building more efficient, transparent, and citizen-friendly systems.
For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.
(L-R) GCash overseas head Alfonso Garcia;
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration deputy administrator for administration
and fund management Atty. Jasmine Anne Gapatan; deputy administrator for policy
development and strategic partnerships Ryan Vincent Uy; administrator Patricia
Yvonne Caunan; GCash vice president and head for public sector Cleo Santos;
chief regulatory officer Atty. Cef Sison; public sector national government
head Jamie Tiu; and public sector national accounts manager Alda Lou Cabrera
OFWs can pay OWWA membership through GCash, at zero fees from April 16 to July 16, 2026
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and GCash have partnered to enable OFWs to pay their membership fees via the GCash app. OFWs can now pay membership fees conveniently and securely using the Bills Pay feature of GCash, anytime, anywhere. This comes at a critical time, as the ongoing Middle East conflict heightens the need for safe, reliable, and accessible digital solutions for Filipinos.
Active membership provides essential support, including emergency repatriation services and reintegration, as well as social benefits like healthcare, legal assistance, and livelihood programs. By digitizing the renewal process, OWWA and GCash are helping ensure that Filipinos have uninterrupted access to these benefits and protections, especially during crises.
“Digitizing the OWWA membership renewal via GCash is a vital component of how our agency is continuously modernizing for the benefit of our countrymen working abroad,” said Atty. Patricia Yvonne “PY” Caunan, OWWA administrator. “We’re glad to have allies in the private sector to help us continue extending the safety of home and the protections of the government to our migrant workers.”
At the signing of the memorandum of agreement, Caunan also cited the broad digital finance advocacies of GCash, which include actively fostering a culture of financial literacy, as key drivers in advancing economic inclusion—contributing to the national goal of making migrant work a sustainable and viable livelihood choice for Filipinos instead of a necessity.
OWWA membership payments will be available through the GCash app starting April 16, 2026. To support OFWs during this time of crisis, transaction fees will be waived for three months or until July 16, 2026.
To pay for your OWWA membership, OFWs just need to follow these steps:
1.Open the GCash app and tap Bills.
2.Select Government, then choose the OWWA icon.
3.Enter your personal details and reference number, then proceed to payment.
Beyond membership payments, OFWs can also use GCash to send remittances, pay bills in the Philippines, and access savings, credit, insurance, and investment products, helping them manage their finances and stay connected to their families.
“Through this partnership with OWWA, we have better opportunities to serve our OFWs with a range of safe, convenient, and real-time services, from gateways to government programs, that ensure continued well-being, to our comprehensive digital financial ecosystem that empowers through true inclusion,” said Cleo Santos, GCash public sector head.
The integration of the OWWA membership into the GCash financial ecosystem is the first significant step in a long-term shared commitment to strengthening support systems for OFWs. GCash looks forward to leveraging digital solutions to complement government services and to ensure that Filipinos remain protected, connected, and supported wherever they are.
For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.
OPPO is gearing up
to introduce the latest addition to its A Series lineup, led by the new OPPO
A6s, bringing Sakalam na Maasahan to life with a smartphone experience
that’s built not just for today, but for the years ahead. Joining the lineup is
the OPPO A6, expanding the series with the same focus on durability and
smart-performing AI.
Now open for pre-order
in the Philippines, the OPPO A6s signals a shift toward smarter spending, where
long-term reliability is prioritized alongside day-one performance. At the core
of this value proposition is 60 Months Fluency Protection, an industry-leading
commitment designed to keep the device running smoothly for up to five years.
By engineering the A6s to resist the typical cycle of slowdowns and early
upgrades, OPPO provides a device that holds its value longer, ensuring your
investment goes further and cutting down the need for frequent, costly
replacements.
Paired with a
7000mAh Large Battery, the OPPO A6s is built to power through long days with
fewer charging interruptions, reducing the need for extra accessories or
constant top-ups. Over time, that kind of consistency adds up in savings that
users can actually feel in their daily routines.
Built to Stay
Smooth for Years, Not Just Months
The OPPO A6s is
designed to maintain stable performance well beyond the typical upgrade cycle.
With 60 Months Fluency Protection, system-level optimizations work continuously
to keep apps responsive and transitions seamless, even after extended use.
Instead of dealing
with lag after a year or two, users get a device that continues to perform as
expected. Holding on to one device longer means fewer upgrade costs and less
disruption, making the OPPO A6s a more practical choice over time.
Durability That
Helps You Avoid Extra Costs
The OPPO A6s is
designed to handle more than just ideal conditions. With IP69 Water and Dust
Resistance, it’s armed against humid afternoons on the go, outdoor runs along
dusty roads, or even those moments when your phone ends up sharing space with
keys and loose change in your bag. This level of durability helps reduce the
chances of damage that often lead to costly repairs. Combined with a battery
designed to stay reliable for years, the OPPO A6s supports longer ownership by
giving users fewer reasons to spend on fixes or replacements.
Smart AI That
Keeps Performance Efficient Over Time
Paired with its
durable build is a layer of smart-performing AI designed to help the device
stay efficient over the long run. The OPPO A6s integrates intelligent features
such as AI LinkBoost 3.0 and AI GameBoost 2.0, which work in the background to
stabilize connections, manage system resources, and maintain smooth performance
without putting unnecessary strain on the device.
From staying
connected in crowded areas to handling multiple apps without slowing down,
these AI-driven features adjust in real time based on how the phone is being
used. By keeping performance consistent, they help reduce the slowdowns that
often lead users to replace their phones earlier than planned.
Experience
#OPPOLangSakalam with #SakalamNaMaasahan through the #OPPOA6s, Now Available
for Pre-order
With the OPPO A6s
at the forefront, OPPO continues to evolve the A Series into a lineup that
prioritizes long-term reliability, durability, and intelligent innovation.
Designed for users who want more value over time, the OPPO A6s delivers a
balanced experience that lasts, powered by a 7000mAh Large Battery, reinforced
with IP69 Water and Dust Resistance, and optimized with 60 Months Fluency
Protection to keep performance smooth for years.
The OPPO A6s comes
in Ice White and Cappuccino Brown, while the OPPO A6 is available in Sakura
Pink, Sapphire Blue, and Aurora Gold.
Pre-order the OPPO
A6 Series now at any OPPO store nationwide and enjoy exclusive offers available
until April 30, 2026:
●
₱2,000 off on the OPPO A6s 5G
(8GB+256GB)
●
₱1,000 off on other OPPO A6 and
A6s variants
●
Free portable fan with every
purchase
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.
PPO officially launches its latest Find Series in the Philippines, the OPPO Find N6, Find X9 Ultra, and Find X9s. These three devices are a new generation of premium smartphones designed to deliver “Flagship Beyond the Expected.”
More than a traditional flagship lineup, the new OPPO Find Series introduces three distinct expressions of premium, each designed to match different lifestyles. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, it empowers users to choose a device that aligns with how they live, work, and create.
OPPO Find N6: The Prestige Flagship for Productivity and Innovation
Designed for tech-forward professionals, the OPPO Find N6 combines performance with presence through its foldable design and expansive 8.12-inch inner display, delivering a tablet-like experience for seamless multitasking like reviewing documents, editing presentations, or running multiple apps at once.
Powered by the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 and supported by a 6000mAh battery with fast charging, it ensures smooth performance and all-day reliability for demanding workflows. Its Zero-Feel Crease technology further enhances the experience, making everything from productivity tasks to entertainment feel seamless and immersive.
OPPO Find X9 Ultra: The Creator’s Flagship for Professional Imaging
Built for photographers, filmmakers, and creators, the OPPO Find X9 Ultra features a quad-camera system led by a 200MP Hasselblad main camera, delivering exceptional clarity and versatility across all shooting scenarios from landscapes to distant subjects.
Its advanced zoom capabilities make it ideal for capturing concerts, sports, and wildlife, while 4K, 8K, and Dolby Vision video with pro controls enable cinematic content creation. Designed for extended use, it packs a 7050mAh battery with 100W SUPERVOOC™ fast charging and 50W AIRVOOC™ wireless charging, along with IP69 durability and 12GB + 512GB storage for smooth, high-resolution workflows.
OPPO Find X9s: The Lifestyle Premium Device for Everyday Performance
Designed for young professionals and everyday achievers, the OPPO Find X9s delivers a balanced premium experience with its 50MP Hasselblad co-developed triple camera, making it easy to capture and enhance daily moments, travel shots, and social content.
With 4K video across all cameras and AI-powered editing tools, it’s ideal for on-the-go content creation. A 7025mAh battery ensures all-day use, while its slim 7.99mm design and IP66/68/69 durability make it reliable for everyday scenarios. Powered by a next-gen chipset, it delivers smooth performance for both productivity and entertainment.
Redefining the Premium Smartphone Experience
With the new Find Series, OPPO moves beyond traditional flagship definitions by offering devices that are not only powerful, but also purpose-driven. Whatever tickles your fancy, each device is designed to meet users where they are while elevating their experience beyond expectations.
Pre-order, Availability and Exclusive Launch Perks
Pre-order for the newest Find Series is now open across select OPPO stores nationwide. This is your headstart to secure OPPO's newest flagship lineup.
In addition, the official OPPO Online Store and Shopee will unveil full product pages, giving customers early access to detailed specifications, color options, and model comparisons. Don't miss your chance for this this early preview to explore and know more about the devices ahead of its official release on May 15, 12:00 MN
OPPO Find N6 (PHP 139,999)
Pre-order the OPPO’s latest foldable starting today and get a chance to join the DJI raffle.
Pre-order
April 24 - Select OPPO Brand Stores Nationwide
Select OPPO Brand Stores: Includes a 1-Year Extended Warranty
Availability
May 1 - Globe Postpaid and Smart Infinity
Globe GPlan 2499 (PHP 73,600 cashout), Includes a 1-Year Extended Warranty
Smart Infinity Plan 5000, Includes a 1-Year Extended warranty
May 15 - Select OPPO Brand stores, OPPO Online Store and Shopee
Select OPPO Brand stores: Includes a 1-Year Extended Warranty.
OPPO Online Store Exclusive Perks: Includes an AI Pen Kit (limited quantities available), with a 1-Year Extended Warranty.
Shopee Perks: Includes a 1-Year Extended Warranty
OPPO Find X9 Ultra (PHP 99,999)
Pre-order
April 24 - Select OPPO Brand Stores Nationwide
Select OPPO Brand Stores Perks: Includes the Flagship Imaging Photography Box.
Availability
May 15 - OPPO Online Store, Shopee and select OPPO Brand Stores nationwide
Online Store Exclusive Perks: Includes the Flagship Imaging Photography Box and Enco X3s earbuds.
Shopee Perks: Includes the Flagship Imaging Photography Box
OPPO Find X9s (PHP 69,999)
Pre-order
April 24 - Select OPPO Brand Stores Nationwide
Select OPPO Brand Stores Perks: Includes Portable Power Gift Box
Availability
May 15 - OPPO Online Store and select OPPO Brand Stores nationwide
Online Store Exclusive Perks: Includes a Portable Power Gift Box and Enco X3s earbuds.
Shopee Perks: Includes the Portable Power Gift Box.
Essential Accessories
For users looking to enhance their experience, two key accessories will also launch on the OPPO Online Store on May 15:
Earth Explorer Kit: PHP 16,999
AI Pen Kit: PHP 7,999
Note: All gift box and kit freebies are available only until supplies last. Be sure to visit the official OPPO Philippines website or their Shopee page on April 24 to prepare for the May 15 launch.
To know more about the OPPO Find Series,visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
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