GCash introduces its new international transfers feature which enables Filipinos to send same-day transfers with transparent tracking and competitive forex

As part of its commitment to enabling Finance for All Filipinos, GCash, the country's leading finance app and largest cashless ecosystem, has launched GCash International Transfers. This first-of-its-kind e-wallet feature enables users to send money directly from their GCash wallet to international bank accounts, cards, and e-wallets.

The service is currently available in 16 countries, including the United States, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Canada, Singapore, India, Germany, Italy, Spain, France, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, with plans to expand to more countries soon.

Ideal for families that send support for loved ones abroad or micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) sourcing raw materials, inventory, or specialize services from overseas, this new feature enables GCash users to send money in Philippine pesos to international bank accounts, cards, and e-wallets in key countries. Recipients receive funds in their local currency, eliminating conversion concerns and ensuring straightforward access to transferred amounts.

This new initiative breaks down time and cost barriers for families who send allowances, educational support (including for "pasabuy" services), and business funds to suppliers abroad.

“GCash International Transfers reflects our commitment to extending financial inclusion beyond Philippine borders,” said Arjun Varma, GCash international general manager. “We want Filipinos to have access to fast, affordable, and transparent international transfers, whether they are supporting family abroad, sending allowances to students, or paying for goods and services across borders.”

Before the launch of this service, sending money abroad using traditional transfer methods was often complicated by slow processing times, high fees, and a lack of visibility on when funds would arrive. GCash International Transfers addresses these challenges by enabling same-day crediting for most corridors and next-day transfers to the United States, giving recipients faster access to funds when they need them most in just 5 easy steps.

Zero transfer fees from March 12 to 31 for Middle East transactions

Filipinos in the Philippines can now send money internationally to the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman via GCash with absolutely zero fees and no minimum transfer amount. This special offer is available from March 12 to 31, 2026, making it easier for families back in the Philippines to provide financial support to their loved ones in the Middle East.

Users can easily complete an international transfer by tapping Transfer on the GCash dashboard, selecting International, choosing the destination country, channel, and recipient type, and confirming the payer. Throughout the process, the feature provides real-time tracking, giving both senders and recipients transparency on the transfer status, which is not typically available in traditional bank transfers. With service fees starting as low as ₱180 and designed to be up to 2–3 times more affordable than typical bank remittance charges, the service ensures more of every peso sent reaches its intended destination.

The fully digital experience means users can complete international transfers anytime, anywhere, without the need to visit physical remittance centres or banks, which is particularly valuable for Filipinos in provinces and remote areas who may have limited access to traditional remittance services.

By removing barriers of time, cost, and uncertainty in cross-border payments, GCash International Transfers strengthens the financial connectivity of Filipino families, students, businesses, and communities across 16 countries.

Reinforcing its vision of Finance for All, GCash ensures that Filipinos can access essential financial services and support their connections worldwide with ease, transparency, and security.

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

East of Metro Manila, Philippines, March 26, 2026 - The wait is finally over—global pop supergroup BTS has made their most-awaited return with their powerful new album, Arirang. Marking a new era for the icons who have redefined music and fandom culture worldwide, this comeback has sparked excitement across the globe—and at SM Supermalls, the celebration went all out for all ARMYs. 

Bringing together through SM Fandom, ARMYs across the East Metro gathered for a series of immersive, music-filled events designed all for you—a true Gala to the Max experience that turned every moment into a shared memory.

ARMYs across the East Metro came together in full force as SM Supermalls delivered back-to-back comeback celebrations. At SM Center Antipolo Downtown, the BTS The Comeback Live Viewing Party turned Shakey’s into a concert-like experience, with cheers, lightsticks, and fan chants filling the space as fans witnessed BTS’ much-anticipated return. 

Meanwhile, SM City Masinag mall facade was washed in red during the ARIRANG | ARMYRang Cupsleeve Event, where themed setups, fan-made merchandise, and exclusive freebies created a vibrant tribute to BTS’ new era. The excitement continues with the another cupsleeve event on April 9 at SM City San Mateo, promising more fan activities and shared moments as the SM Fandom celebrates the Arirang era together.

From live viewing parties to fan-led gatherings, SM Supermalls continues to be the home of unforgettable fandom experiences—bringing communities together in ways that are truly all for you. 

Graduation is a time to celebrate, and for many Filipino families, that means coming together for a hearty meal. This season, SM Hypermarket Baliwag makes it easier to plan a memorable graduation feast without going over the budget.     

                   

A flavorful roasted chicken serves as the highlight, along with beef caldereta, a rich and comforting favorite that fits any special occasion.

No Filipino celebration feels complete without crowd-pleasers like juicy pork barbecue, crispy lumpiang Shanghai, and Pinoy-style spaghetti. These classic dishes bring back good memories and add a special touch to the gathering.       

To end the meal on a sweet note, smooth and creamy leche flan is the ideal dessert. Combine it all with delightful sparkling juice for a festive feel that’s enjoyable for all ages. 

Whether it's a small or big gathering, throwing a graduation feast does not have to be expensive.. 

With SM Hypermarket Baliwag’s smart selections, families can celebrate milestones with a delicious spread and great memories.

The excitement was undeniable as ARMYs gathered in full force across SM malls to celebrate one of the most anticipated K-pop comebacks of the year.

At SM City Valenzuela, excitement filled the air during a lively listening party as fans came together to enjoy BTS’ music. With synchronized chants and impromptu sing-alongs, each song became a shared moment, showing that BTS celebrations are best experienced with fellow ARMYs.

Over at SM City Grand Central, the celebration continued with a lively fan meet where ARMYs bonded over their love for the group through activities, games, and unforgettable fan moments. It was more than just an event. It was a heartfelt gathering of a community that spans the globe.

All of this buzz leads up to BTS WORLD TOUR ‘Arirang’, which fans can catch on the big screen at SM Cinema of SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela on April 11, 12 , and 18.

Watch out for more events at your most-loved SM malls in Grand Central, Valenzuela, and Sangandaan, the home of everyday celebrations. Visit and gala to the max at your favorite SM Mall!

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), the Philippines’ first and Southeast Asia’s oldest bank, recently garnered eight distinctions from the 13th annual Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards and the 61st Anvil Awards.

The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards—widely recognized as one of the region’s premier business awards programs—celebrate innovation across industries. Together with The International Business Awards and other Stevie programs, the Stevies are regarded globally as a benchmark of excellence in organizational performance and creativity.

BPI’s five Stevie wins highlight the Bank’s continued leadership in purposeful communication across video storytelling, public affairs, marketing, events, and B2B services. These recognitions include:

 Gold Stevie – Innovation in Public Relations Videos

BPI #ProudToBePartOfIt – now on its fifth season, the series reimagines employer branding by shifting from scripted recruitment materials to authentic, vlog-style storytelling that gives audiences a genuine look into the culture, passion, and everyday purpose that drive BPI employees.

 Gold Stevie – Innovation in Public Affairs Communications

AFASA: Blazing the Trail in Consumer Protection – an initiative that combined education, advocacy, and multi-sectoral engagement to help shape national policy, culminating in the passage of the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA), a landmark law that reinforces cybersecurity and strengthens safeguards for the public.

 Silver Stevie – Innovation in Purpose-Driven Marketing

BPI Partner-serye – a social media video series that introduced the “Withdrawal via BPI app” capability, allowing customers to get cash at partner stores through an app-generated barcode while highlighting how partner stores help bring banking closer to everyday Filipino routines.

 Bronze Stevie – Innovation in Business-to-Business Services

BPI Salary On-Demand – a service exclusive to BPI payroll customers that allows employees to access a portion of their earned salary ahead of payday, enabling employers to offer a financial wellness benefit without changing internal processes or adding administrative burden.

 Bronze Stevie – Innovation in the Use of Events

BPI Cyber Protect Conference Series – launched in 2023, the initiative has grown into a multi-sectoral platform against digital fraud, bringing together leaders from government, industry, and civic organizations to elevate cybersecurity awareness and collective protection.

“These recognitions from the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards affirm BPI’s ability not only to compete but to stand out across the region,” said TG Limcaoco, BPI President and CEO. “They inspire us to continue building programs rooted in collaboration, creativity, and the trust of our customers as we move toward our 175th year.”

The awards will be formally presented on April 17, 2026, in Macau.

BPI’s Public Affairs and Communications team celebrate the Bank’s three Silver Anvil wins at the 61st Anvil Awards on January 28, 2026 at Solaire Resort North in Quezon City.

Meanwhile, BPI also received three Silver Anvil Awards at the 61st Anvil Awards held on January 28, 2026 at Solaire Resort North in Quezon City, recognizing communication initiatives that deliver real impact.

Organized by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), the Anvil Awards are widely known as the “Oscars of Public Relations” in the country, celebrating programs and tools that meaningfully connect with audiences and help drive positive change.

BPI’s Silver Anvil Awards include:

 Silver Anvil – Public Relations Tools (Multimedia)

BPI #ProudToBePartOfIt

 Silver Anvil – Public Relations Programs (Best Use of Influencer Marketing)

BPI Circle: Championing Financial Wellness with KOLs – a program that partnered with content creators nationwide to make conversations on financial education, cybersecurity, sustainability, and digitalization more relatable and accessible to Filipinos.

 Silver Anvil – Public Relations Programs (Government Relations)

CyberAcademy: A Public Private Partnership for Cybersecurity and Financial Protection – an initiative that brings together BPI and key government agencies to strengthen cybersecurity capabilities through specialized training and certification programs.

“These awards remind us that communication is most effective when it is anchored on service and shared responsibility,” said Maria Elena Torrijos, Head of BPI Public Affairs and Communications. “From telling the stories of our people, to working with creators, and partnering with government, our goal has always been to create initiatives that truly matter to the communities we serve.”

The recognition at the 61st Anvil Awards underscores BPI’s continued commitment to communication excellence, driven by empathy, collaboration, and a clear focus on making a positive difference for Filipinos.

SEOUL, Korea – March 25, 2026 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced the new Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G, the latest Galaxy A series devices that bring Samsung’s newest mobile innovations — including enriched Awesome Intelligence — to more users worldwide. The latest Galaxy A series reflects Samsung’s commitment to expanding AI capabilities across more devices and empowering more users to harness the power of intuitive AI that simplifies everyday tasks. Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G strengthen the experiences users rely on every day with upgrades to performance, camera and display, alongside durability and security features. With up to six generations of OS upgrades and long-term security support, the new Galaxy A series is built to last. Leading the lineup is Galaxy A57 5G, featuring a slimmer, more refined design and upgraded AI-powered capabilities that make it the most powerful Galaxy A series device yet.

“The new Galaxy A series reflects our continued commitment to AI democratization by bringing the latest innovations to more Galaxy users,” said TM Roh, Chief Executive Officer, President, and Head of Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics. “With Samsung’s fundamental capabilities combined with enriched Awesome Intelligence, Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G will deliver reliable everyday performance to users around the world and drive rapid AI expansion.”

Enriched Awesome Intelligence Designed for Everyday Life

Through the latest One UI 8.5, Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G extend Samsung’s latest AI innovations to more users, with Awesome Intelligence that helps people get more things done with ease while unlocking new ways to create and stay productive.

Voice Transcription is new to the Voice Recorder app, making it easier to revisit important details from meetings, lectures or calls by quickly transcribing and translating call recordings or turning voicemail audio into text. AI Select is easier to access with a long press on the Edge Panel, surfacing relevant actions directly on the screen to extract text or create content without manually selecting items. AI Select also supports Drag & Drop in Multi-Window layout, allowing users to easily move images into Samsung Notes or Photo Editor for faster editing and improved productivity.

Awesome Intelligence makes everyday photo editing easier than ever. Object Eraser now delivers more natural results when removing unwanted distractions, like a passerby in the background or clutter in a café. On Galaxy A57 5G, Best Face supports more photos and continuous shooting, making it easier to capture the perfect group photos where everyone looks their best. Fan favorite tools like Filters and Edit Suggestions help users quickly refine and share moments without extra effort, while Galaxy A57 5G also features Auto Trim for even easier video editing.

Circle to Search with Google  adds multi-object recognition so users can easily explore multiple items in an image at once — from an outfit to surrounding accessories — all in one search.

The new Galaxy A series expands Awesome Intelligence experiences with a choice of agents designed to simplify everyday tasks from search to organizing plans or easily adjusting settings. As a conversational device agent, upgraded Bixby lets users intuitively control Galaxy settings and features using natural language, while Gemini navigates complex tasks across native Galaxy apps and select third-party apps to support faster, more intuitive interactions.

Awesome Camera to Capture Clearer Photos and Videos, Day or Night

As AI becomes more deeply integrated into mobile experiences, camera performance remains essential to delivering the everyday usability and satisfaction users expect.

Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G deliver brighter, clearer visuals powered by the upgraded camera hardware and an improved Image Signal Processor (ISP). The devices feature a versatile triple-camera system, led by a 50MP main sensor , delivering sharp, detailed images across a wide range of lighting conditions without the need for manual adjustments.

When the lights go down, the Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G camera adapts seamlessly with improved Nightography , capturing clear and true-to-life photos and videos even in low light conditions.

Galaxy A57 5G takes photography a step further with enhanced image processing that sharpens detail and reduces noise for even clearer, more vibrant results. It delivers rich contrast and balanced color even in challenging light, while with a faster shutter speed, users can instantly capture fleeting moments faster and with improved clarity.

Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G also benefit from AI-based subject recognition and scene optimization to balance portraits, preserve natural skin tones and create clearer background separation. When the moment calls for a wider perspective, the ultra-wide lens captures more in every group photo or landscape view, while the 5MP macro camera reveals fine details up close for added creative flexibility.

Performance for Streaming and Multitasking

Galaxy A57 5G delivers the best of both design and performance , combining upgraded CPU, GPU and NPU to deliver improved performance with its sleek and light form. Built for smooth streaming, scrolling and content creation, its refined design features a glossy finish and distinctive triple-camera island for a standout modern look that feels comfortable in-hand.

Despite its slimmer profile, Galaxy A57 5G packs powerful performance. Its 5,000mAh battery supports up to two days of use — powering everything from filming and editing to viewing on the go. Slimmer bezels and a bright Super AMOLED + display with Vision Booster ensure an immersive, clear viewing experience indoors and outside.

Built for everyday use, Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G are rated IP68 for water and dust resistance, adding durability in real-world environments and offering users peace of mind when accidents happen. 

Long-Term Support and Foundational Security

Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G reinforce Samsung’s commitment to device longevity, offering up to six generations of Android OS and One UI upgrades, along with up to six years of security updates – giving users the confidence to rely on their device for years to come.

Samsung provides a fortified layer of device safety, transparency and user choice with Knox Vault , a hardware-based, tamper-resistant security solution. Galaxy A series offers users holistic protection through innovative security and privacy features including Security & Privacy Dashboard, Auto Blocker, Private Sharing, Theft Protection as well as the new Private Album, a Gallery feature that allows users to lock away personal media quickly and easily. Unlike traditional safeguards, the latest A series devices also proactively notify users about potential risks with Privacy Alerts, which are intelligent notifications that offer clearer insight and control over location permissions or suspicious monitoring of sensitive data. Together, these enhancements make security feel as intuitive as the rest of the experience, making device protection easier than ever for everyone.

Availability

Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G is now available in Samsung Authorized Stores nationwide. Galaxy A57 5G will be offered in Awesome Navy, Awesome Gray, Awesome Icyblue and Awesome Lilac, while Galaxy A37 5G comes in Awesome Lavender, Awesome Charcoal, Awesome Graygreen, and Awesome White. For added peace of mind, Samsung Care+ offers comprehensive coverage optimized to users' device needs, including tailored benefits that protect the devices’ value.

Every purchase comes with a free travel adapter (worth P1,190) and phone case (worth P990), alongside two-year Samsung Care+ warranty for total peace of mind. And for a limited time only, you can get the 256GB variant at an additional P1,500 off! That's up to P5,170 worth of savings.

Looking to upgrade to the Galaxy ecosystem? Take 40% off the Galaxy Fit3, Watch8, Buds3 FE, and Buds Core with every purchase of the Galaxy A57 and Galaxy A37 5G too.

Offers valid until June 30 only*. For more information on the latest Galaxy A series devices, please visit:

Galaxy A57 5G: http://smsng.co/GalaxyA57-PR

Galaxy A37 5G: http://smsng.co/GalaxyA37-PR

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-252295, 251225, and 251388 series of 2026