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Milksha, Taiwan’s beloved milk tea brand, proudly opens its first-ever concept store in the Philippines! 

Get ready for a delightful sip filled with pure, fresh, and natural milk tea creations made with the finest ingredients. Officially opening its doors at SM North EDSA, the Milksha concept store is inviting even more Filipinos to experience its fresh and most flavorful milk tea straight from Taiwan. 

Milksha has become a global sensation, celebrated for its commitment to quality and its dedication to crafting pure, fresh, and natural beverages. Each drink is hand-made with care–from the finest tea leaves to freshly made chewy honey pearls–to create a symphony of textures and flavors. By using only real ingredients and no powders, Milksha delivers a velvety creaminess and the bold, full-bodied taste of authentic tea, satisfying cravings and delighting taste buds with every sip. 

Fresh. Pure. Authentic.

Milksha’s secret to success? It’s the flavors enhanced by special ingredients, ingredient by ingredient. The menu is a celebration of everything that makes milk tea special, with drinks that highlight Milksha’s commitment to fresh, real ingredients. Some must-try favorites include:

• Signature 3Q Milk Tea – A bestseller layered with a trio of honey pearls, grass jelly, and pudding for the ultimate texture-filled sip.
• Strawberry Coulis Milk – A creamy milk drink swirled with generous portions of real strawberries, offering a fruity and delightful twist that fans can’t stop raving about.
• Jasmine Green Tea with Cloudy Cream – A hot, light, and fragrant tea crowned with Milksha’s velvety cream topping for a perfect balance of flavors.

Each cup is brewed for the perfect balance, packed with flavor, and designed to make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re looking for something refreshing, indulgent, or entirely unique, Milksha’s offerings promise to deliver.

Milksha’s menu now boasts over 30 drinks, offering something for every mood and moment. The expanded selection includes exciting new creations alongside classic favorites, ensuring that everyone can find their next go-to beverage.

Made to Savor, Made to Share

Whether grabbing a quick pick-me-up with friends, taking a break from shopping, or simply treating yourself to something special, Milksha’s first concept store at SM North EDSA, City Center, Level 2 offers a space where every visit becomes a moment to remember. 

With its focus on real ingredients and innovative flavors, Milksha is set to become a must-visit destination for milk tea lovers in the heart of Quezon City. 

Discover more sweet treats and exciting brands at SM Supermalls, the home of firsts, by visiting www.smsupermalls.com or following @smsupermalls on social media.

SM North EDSA continues to redefine the shopping and dining scene with an exciting array of new tenants across its sprawling mall. Brimming with new experiences—from Milksha’s first-ever concept store in the Philippines to exciting store openings—here’s what awaits you at The Block and beyond.

The Block: A Hub of Exciting New Stores

Step into The Block at SM North EDSA, where a fresh wave of stores and attractions awaits. From unique dining experiences to specialty shops and immersive adventures, The Block is your destination for exciting discoveries and memorable moments.

Tonkotsu Kazan (The Block, Ground Floor)

Indulge in the rich flavors of authentic Japanese ramen at Tonkotsu Kazan, now serving its signature dishes at SM North EDSA. Known for its perfectly crafted noodles, flavorful broth, and tender roasted pork, this ramen house brings a dining experience steeped in tradition.

Every bowl is a celebration of Japanese precision and hospitality, or omotenashi, making it a must-try destination for foodies craving comfort and quality. 

Bebang Halo-Halo (The Block, Ground Floor)

Rediscover the Filipino classic with a playful twist at Bebang Halo-Halo, where every spoonful is a delightful surprise. Known for its “Fun, Royal, and Filipino” approach, Bebang takes halo-halo to new heights with the creamiest textures and most innovative flavors.

Cool, colorful, and packed with flavor, Bebang Halo-Halo’s best seller, The Presidential, is the ultimate Pinoy merienda. This refreshing mix of sweet, creamy, and crunchy goodness is perfect for any craving this holiday season. Priced at only PHP 148–178, it’s the creamiest way to enjoy this Filipino favorite!

Fully Booked x Kinokuniya (The Block, 5th Floor)

A literary and cultural collaboration awaits at Fully Booked x Konikuniya, now open at SM North EDSA. This one-of-a-kind bookstore fuses Fully Booked’s beloved English-language collection with Kinokuniya’s curated Japanese titles.

From timeless Japanese classics Nihongo learning materials to art books and English-translated manga, this store is a cultural oasis for book lovers and manga enthusiasts alike.

Gashapon Bandai (The Block, 5th Floor)

Calling all capsule toy lovers! Gashapon Bandai, Japan’s iconic vending machine toy concept, has arrived at SM North EDSA. With every spin, you’ll discover collectibles featuring beloved anime icons like Dragon Ball and Sailor Moon, and adorable Sanrio characters.

It’s not just a shop; it’s a thrilling adventure that turns every visit into a treasure hunt for kids and collectors alike. 

Co. The Collectible Store (The Block, 5th Floor)

Step into Co. The Collectible Store, where pop culture dreams come true. Whether you’re after Funko Pop! figures, rare anime merchandise, K-pop albums, or trading cards, this store is a haven for fans and enthusiasts.

Each visit is more than just a shopping trip–it’s a celebration of your fandom, where nostalgia and discovery meet. 

Underwater Adventure (The Block, 5th Floor)

Take the kids on an unforgettable journey at The Underwater Adventure, the metro’s first ocean-themed playground. This immersive experience features murals of marine life across the walls and floors, with ride-on toys in the shape of boats, fish, and sea animals. It’s the perfect destination for families looking to combine play with a creative learning experience in a vibrant, underwater world.

Beyond The Block: New Experiences Across the Mall

Milksha (City Center, 2nd Floor)

Known for its fresh milk, loose leaf tea leaves and dedication to quality and craft, Milksha is making waves with its first-ever concept store at SM North EDSA. Treat yourself to their delicious handcrafted specialty drinks – goodness in every cup.

Aquaflask Design Lab (City Center, 2nd Floor)

The Aquaflask Design Lab redefines hydration with chic, double-insulated water bottles that keep drinks cold for 24 hours or hot for 12. Style meets sustainability with these game-changing essentials. 

Dr. Martens (The Annex, 2nd Floor)

Make a bold statement with Dr. Martens, now at SM North EDSA. Known for its rebellious spirit and timeless style, this globally celebrated footwear brand is perfect for those looking to stand out. 

From signature boots to versatile shoes, Dr. Martens delivers the perfect blend of style, durability, and comfort, giving you iconic steps with every stride.

Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu (City Center, 2nd Floor)

Craving a satisfying meal that blends tradition with innovation? Look no further than Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu, where the famous Gyukatsu takes center stage. This unique Japanese dish features high-quality beef cutlets, breaded and fried to perfection. What sets it apart is the interactive experience—each cutlet is served alongside a sizzling stone grill, allowing you to cook the beef to your preferred doneness right at the table. While the variety of condiments and dipping sauces enhance the flavors, it’s the premium beef and the hands-on grilling process that truly elevate the experience. It’s the perfect spot for anyone seeking a fulfilling and flavorful meal with a Japanese twist.

Coming Soon

While many new stores are already open, there’s more to look forward to in the coming months:

• Stuff’d: An exciting new spot for kebabs, burritos, and quesadillas.

• All Aboard: A whimsical destination set to open its doors.

• KKV: Offering a vibrant mix of trendy lifestyle essentials.

With so much to discover at SM North EDSA, from The Block to the city center and beyond, now is the perfect time to explore the newest stores, dining options, and stylish concepts. From literary treasures to playful collectibles and authentic dining experiences, SM North EDSA is your gateway to fresh and exciting adventures. Don’t miss out on these new and upcoming openings—plan your visit today and be the first to experience everything that’s new!

For updates and more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @smsupermalls on social media.

Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), one of the leading insurers in the Philippines, has once again earned recognition as a Great Place to Work® for the third straight year after achieving an impressive score in the latest employee survey conducted independently by Great Place to Work®, the global authority on workplace culture and excellence.

According to the survey results, 91% of Sun Life Grepa employees affirmed that the company fosters an inclusive environment where they feel welcome. Furthermore, 92% acknowledged fair treatment regardless of gender, and 92% appreciated how the company celebrates special events.

“This recognition is a testament to the culture we have cultivated together—one that values a supportive and empowering workplace where employees can thrive both personally and professionally,” said Sun Life Grepa President Richard S. Lim. “It inspires us to continue finding ways to enhance the employee experience and build a workplace where everyone can succeed and feel proud to belong.”

Apart from the extensive training and development programs that employees can take advantage of, Sun Life Grepa demonstrates its commitment to employee well-being through a holistic approach that supports mental, physical, social, and financial wellness. Employees benefit from initiatives such as free psychological counselling, regular fitness programs, and various engagement activities, including important event celebrations, summer outings, and movie nights.

Sun Life Grepa continues to welcome talents who are looking for a workplace that champions personal growth, collaboration, and a brighter future. For more information about career opportunities at Sun Life Grepa, visit www.sunlifegrepa.com/home/about-us/careers/.

Manila, Philippines—The International Olympic Committee (IOC) today announced a Worldwide Olympic Partnership with global technology company TCL through to 2032. TCL will be the official Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner in the Home Audiovisual Equipment and Home Appliances category.

TCL products will drive new experiences for fans and athletes, from digital displays at the Olympic Games to household appliances in the Olympic Village. Through this new partnership, the organisations will also work together to bring the magic of the Olympic Games to billions of fans around the world through innovative marketing campaigns. TCL will play an important role as the IOC progresses its Olympic AI Agenda – including supporting fan and athlete experiences on site and at home. TCL will also support the “Athletes Moments” initiative at the Olympic Games allowing athletes to connect with loved ones around the world immediately after their competition.

As a result of the agreement, the IOC will redistribute the revenue it receives to provide financial support to sports organisations around the world, including every National Olympic Committee and their athletes, plus the Organising Committees for the Olympic Games and Youth Olympic Games until 2032.

IOC President Thomas Bach said: “The IOC is excited to announce its new partnership with TCL, a world leader in the television and household goods industries. TCL has a long history of supporting sport around the world, and now is taking its ambition to inspire greatness to new heights as the Olympic Games are the greatest, most inspirational global sporting stage.

Li Dongsheng, Founder and Chairman of TCL, said: “We are honoured to become a Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner. As a leading global technology brand, TCL has always striven to ‘Inspire Greatness’, which aligns with the Olympic spirit. The Olympic Games inspires billions of people around the world and through this partnership, TCL’s diverse innovations will empower the Olympic Games and deliver exceptional experiences to a global audience. TCL will continue to fulfil its corporate social responsibility, support the Olympic sustainable development goals, and create a better future.”

TCL has supported sports around the world for decades through multiple partnerships. At the Olympic Games, TCL will enable new visual and lifestyle experiences by providing a range of intelligent innovations, including smart displays, air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, smart door locks, audio systems, projectors and TCL RayNeo smart glasses.

Founded in 1981, TCL is committed to “Building a Sustainable and Connected Future with Advanced Technology”, dedicated to empowering a smart, healthy lifestyle by enabling next-generation intelligent experiences. With 46 R&D centres and 38 manufacturing bases globally, TCL operates in over 160 countries and regions, cementing its position as a globally competitive technology brand.

Jiří Kejval, Chair of the IOC Revenues and Commercial Partnerships Commission, said: “TCL is a global leader in its industry and is one of the world’s fastest-growing brands. The TOP Programme continues to offer the world’s leading brands and marketers an unparalleled marketing platform built on the global reach and the values of the Olympic Games. Testament to this is today’s announcement, as we bring TCL to the family of TOP Partners.”

Manila, Philippines (February 21, 2025) — As wellness challenges become increasingly prevalent, HUAWEI seeks to enable users to take a more holistic approach to their well-being as it launches the HUAWEI Band 10, a thin, lightweight smart band engineered to help users optimize their fitness and rest. 

The HUAWEI Band 10 can serve as a catalyst for a more active lifestyle and help users improve their overall health and wellbeing. Equipped with advanced sleep tracking and emotional well-being monitoring features, the latest addition to the HUAWEI Band Series strengthens the connection between sleep, fitness, and overall well-being and reinforces the tech brand’s commitment to innovation that fosters a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. 

Smartwatch-Like Experience and Seamless Convenience for Everyday Life

The HUAWEI Band 10 is designed for effortless integration into daily routines, offering a range of smart features that enhance convenience and connectivity. With an impressive 14-day battery life, it ensures uninterrupted performance, whether paired with iOS or Android devices. The device lets users stay connected even on the go with a quick reply feature for incoming calls and message notifications. The HUAWEI Band 10 supports QR payment powered by GCash, enabling hassle-free payment transactions right from the wrist even without users’ smartphones around.

Users can easily control their music playback, manage their schedules, answer or reject phone calls, and even capture photos remotely using the HUAWEI Band 10. For added convenience, the smartband supports the Find My Phone function which helps users locate their device with a simple command from the band. 

Precise and Enriching Sports Tracking for Peak Performance

The HUAWEI Band 10 delivers enhanced motion data accuracy across over 100 workout modes, including basketball, swimming, and running. Its scientific exercise system optimizes users’ training and workout with key insights. It monitors heart rate variability, pulse wave arrhythmia, and SpO2 (blood oxygen). 

HUAWEI’s newest smartband also introduces the first-ever AI Swimming Posture Model, powered by a nine-axis sensor for improved posture recognition accuracy. It also supports underwater heart rate and energy expenditure monitoring. With AI-driven pace and distance tracking, the HUAWEI Band 10 surpasses industry standards. The smartband seamlessly integrates with popular social fitness tracking service, Strava. Designed for all-day wear, the HUAWEI Band 10 is water and sweat-resistant, making it the perfect companion for any fitness routine. 

Pro-Level Sleep Analysis and Emotional Wellbeing Assistant for Enhanced Wellness

The HUAWEI Band 10 elevates sleep monitoring with a comprehensive sleep tracking before, during, and after sleep. It sends bedtime reminders, detects sleep latency and wake-up time, and in-depth sleep analysis by tracking users’ average heart rate during sleep with Heart Rate Variability (HRV), as well as three other physiological indicators. To ensure precise HRV measuring, users have to wear the smartband for at least 7 days. With Sleep Breathing Awareness, it tracks users’ breathing patterns and assesses the risk of Sleep Apnea. The new Sleep Summary rates users’ sleep quality, identifies causes of sleep disturbances, and provides actionable tips for better rest.

Aside from sleep monitoring, the HUAWEI Band 10 also prioritizes emotional wellbeing, supporting mood monitoring with the Emotional Wellbeing Assistant. It features the fun and interactive Pet Panda animation which reflects users’ mood for real-time feedback on their emotions. The device offers mindfulness training, guided breathing exercises, and women’s health management, with an easy-to-read monthly calendar for menstrual cycle tracking as well as menstrual cycle data recording and smart summary information display, to further enhance users’ holistic wellness.

Stylish, Ultra-Light, and Slim for All-Day Comfort

The HUAWEI Band 10 redefines wearable comfort with its ultra-thin 8.99mm profile, making it the thinnest smartband in the industry. Weighing just 15g, it feels virtually weightless, ensuring effortless wear throughout the day. The HUAWEI Brand 10 is now offered in an aluminum-alloy body, crafted through CNC cutting technology, boasting a premium, high-gloss finish for a sleek and stylish look. The HUAWEI Band 10 in aluminum-alloy comes in Matte Black, White, Green, Blue, and Purple. The smartband is also available in a durable polymer plastic option in Black and Pink, which offers versatility without compromising on comfort and aesthetics.

The smartband delivers a vibrant, seamless viewing experience with a 1.47-inch AMOLED screen with full-color visuals and supports an Always-On Display (AOD) and intelligent brightness adjustment. It offers over 700 free dynamic watch face options, including the Pet Panda, Large Numbers, and Activity rings, ensuring a fresh look without repeats for up to two years. The Sleep theme displays users’ sleep data. The widgets on the screen are easily customizable and lets users easily access features with one tap.

The strap is made from skin-friendly, high-quality fluoroelastomer that make it both soft and anti-allergic, which enhances users’ comfortable wear experience. It also has a quick-release design ensuring the band is easily customized and making it the perfect companion anytime, anywhere.

Discover a Better Way to Live with the HUAWEI Band 10

The HUAWEI Band 10 is set to launch soon in the Philippines this March. Visit your nearest HUAWEI Experience Stores or check out HUAWEI’s website and official social media pages to learn more about the official launch of the newest smartband from HUAWEI.

To learn more about the HUAWEI Band 10, visit HUAWEI’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

TNT, the value brand of Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) now lets subscribers play eight hours of the popular mobile game Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) for as low as P10 with its TNT Panalo 10 offer.

TNT Panalo 10 comes with 300 MB data for MLBB, which is more than enough for gamers, considering that two hours of playing only consumes 5 MB, while practice sessions of esports players usually run up to eight hours, only consuming 15 MB to 17 MB.

This means subscribers can use the remaining data for browsing gaming forums, joining online communities, or watching livestreams of content creators for tips and strategies.

 

TNT Panalo 10 also comes with 60 minutes of calls and 60 texts to all networks, which lets subscribers conveniently get in touch with their gaming squad.

Subscribers can register to TNT Panalo 10 by logging into the Smart App or their go-to mobile wallets, or heading to the nearest convenience store and accredited retailers nationwide.

TNT Panalo 10 is just one of TNT’s many value-packed offers in line with its thrust to bring saya to Filipinos through affordable services powered by its superior mobile network. Subscribers can watch out for more exciting offers and experiences as part of TNT’s 25th anniversary celebration this year.

Manila, Philippines — HUAWEI is out to transform the mobile working experience with the all-new HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2-inch 2025. This revolutionary tablet delivers true PC-Level performance in an ultra-light form with the industry-first flexible OLED PaperMatte Display.

HUAWEI continues to open up new horizons for tablet innovations, fusing high performance with industry-leading display technology on the latest addition to the HUAWEI MatePad series. The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2-inch 2025 is set to launch soon in the Philippines.

Enhanced Productivity with PC and Tablet Experience

The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2-inch 2025 offers a seamless 2-in-1 experience, functioning as both a PC and tablet to provide a flagship productivity experience with enhanced portability. The tablet comes with NearLink PC-Level Bundle, which offers low-latency connectivity for a smooth, responsive, and uninterrupted workflow. The NearLink Detachable Keyboard offers a full PC-like typing experience and supports multiple configurations, including Split Form, Laptop Form, and Studio Form. 

The NearLink Detachable Keyboard works well with the tablet’s PC-Level WPS Office suite. Designed with a PC-like user interface and advanced functions, this allows users to create, edit, and manage documents, spreadsheets, and presentations effortlessly. With full cross-compatibility, files remain accessible and editable across different devices, ensuring smooth collaboration and productivity

.

The tablet is also compatible with the 3rd Gen HUAWEI M-Pencil, which elevates digital writing and creativity with a 10,000-level pressure sensitivity, ultra-low latency, and precision tracking. This results in a natural and responsive pen-on-paper feel. This makes it ideal for note-taking, sketching, or annotating with the built-in HUAWEI Notes app. This app offers an enhanced note-taking experience and allows users to import PDF files for signing and annotating. The tablet’s industry-first Flexible OLED PaperMatte Display offers a comfortable and natural feel, making digital handwriting more intuitive than ever.

Upgraded Experience with Flagship PC-Level Performance

The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2-inch 2025 delivers a powerful, PC-level flagship performance, significantly upgrading from its previous edition to provide a powerful and efficient office experience. Powered by a 10,100mAh battery, the tablet is designed for all-day use. With 100W fast charging, users can quickly recharge and stay productive without long downtimes.

The tablet features an advanced hardcore heat dissipation architecture, which improves its overall system performance. This allows for an extended turbo duration, ensuring sustained peak performance during intensive tasks. This system optimizes thermal management, reducing junction temperatures by 10°C and enhancing stability. The CPU operates at a lower maximum temperature, allowing for extended high-performance without throttling.

The device can handle demanding workloads with ease. Users can open large files and manage even up to 100 files at once, including 1GB presentations or spreadsheets. They can also decompress large files without lag. The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2-inch 2025 also offers high-speed video processing, enabling 1GB 4K video files to be exported rapidly. Gaming users will enjoy a PC-level gaming experience at high frame rates. 

Next-Level Visual Experience with Flexible OLED PaperMatte Display

The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2-inch 2025 debuts the industry leading flexible OLED PaperMatte Display with the highest screen-to-body ratio and superior anti-glare technology. The tablet’s 13.2-inch display remains thin and lightweight while offering sharp visuals without whitening effects. This innovative display introduces HUAWEI’s patented optical film which enhances text clarity by magnifying pixels and evenly distributing light for a comfortable reading and viewing experience.

Designed for eye comfort and usability, the display achieves 95% transmittance and eliminates 99% of environmental glare even on the black bezel. With certifications from TÜV Rheinland for Eye Comfort and SGS for Low Visual Fatigue, it provides a paper-like feel to make long hours of work easier on the eyes without sacrificing visual quality. Paired with the tablet’s PC-level performance, this display enhances productivity in every scenario.

The groundbreaking display is ideal for creative projects on the HUAWEI GoPaint app, which introduces the new Real Color Brush. It leverages powerful graphics rendering for true-to-life color expression. The GoPaint app also includes advanced tools such as layer blending, filter processing, and gridline assistance to improve users’ creation experience on the app. The 50MP ultra-HD rear camera, a first for tablets, also offers smartphone-level image quality, perfect for capturing high-resolution content or scanning documents with incredible detail.

Reinvent Your Mobile Productivity with the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2-inch 2025

Working on the go will never be the same with the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2-inch 2025, launching soon in the Philippines. Visit HUAWEI’s website and official social media pages for the latest updates on the official launch of the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2-inch. 

To learn more about the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2-inch 2025, visit HUAWEI’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

MANILA, Philippines – The new year is the perfect time to focus on health and wellness. For many, setting fitness goals and building better habits mark the first step toward a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Whether it’s exercising daily, meal prepping, or practicing healthy hydration everyday – these small, consistent habits can lay the foundation for long-term success.

The key is consistency—and it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Here are some steps you can take to invest in a healthier life this year.

1. Develop just one healthy habit – but do it every day

Healthy habits don’t have to be complicated. Start with an activity you genuinely enjoy and aim to do it every day for two months. Once it becomes a habit, you’ll no longer rely on willpower to stay on track—it will be automatic.

A great example of a simple healthy habit? Running.

Running has surged in popularity, and it’s easy to see why: running boosts the mood, reduces anxiety, and delivers tons of physical benefits. And it’s not complicated—just grab your sneakers and hit the road!

One way you can really build your fitness habit is to join others in their journey. Run clubs have become a go-to for those looking to stay active and make connections. Their workouts are shared experiences, which can help you stay motivated.

2. Move your body everyday

Incorporating movement through running and joining runs as part of your routine is one of the best ways to build a healthy lifestyle. This year, you can make your steps count even more by joining the GCash Eco Run.




The GCash Eco Run gives everyone the chance to combine fitness with helping the planet. In partnership with Silliman University, a grey mangrove tree will be planted in Negros Occidental for every person that signs up to the GCash Eco Run. To double the impact of this initiative – GCash will plant an additional tree, for every tree planted!




Mangroves play a vital role in combating climate change, protecting local coastlines from erosion, and supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities by serving as fish nurseries. This initiative not only strengthens environmental resilience but also ensures sustainable livelihoods, fostering long-term benefits for both nature and people.




The GCash Eco Run offers distances for everyone – from beginners to more seasoned runners. The 3K and 5K races are open to participants 13 and older and children 12 and under may join if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Those who want to stretch their capabilities can join the 10K races, which is open to participants 16 and older.




The GCash Eco Run is happening on March 23, 2025 along Ayala Avenue in Makati. Until February 28, you can register and enjoy ₱150 OFF with promo code GCASHRUNTAYO. Every step supports mangrove restoration, helping protect our shores and marine life, so take advantage of this special offer while it lasts!

3. Embrace the Journey

Fitness is a journey, not a sprint. Progress takes time, so celebrate every small victory and don’t let setbacks discourage you. With consistency, movement becomes second nature—so embrace the process and have fun along the way.




Make 2025 the year you prioritize your health and your role in helping the planet. Join the GCash Eco Run to turn your fitness goals into meaningful action this March and create a healthier, more sustainable future—one step at a time.




Registration to the GCash Eco Run is now open until March 22, 2025. Sign up via the GCash app and receive your GForest Tree Certificate on event day. For more details, visit this link.

(L-R) GCash chief strategy officer Rowena Zamora and Banco Santander regional head of North America Christiana Riley during a panel at the World Economic Forum on AI

Driving progress in fintech must be grounded in the responsible use of transformative tech like artificial intelligence (AI), according to a panel at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2025 in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland.

In keeping with this year’s theme, “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age,” professional services network Deloitte hosted a panel to look at real-life applications of AI in financial institutions and explore how these can be scaled to improve productivity and customer experience, as well as enhance multisectoral approaches to financial inclusion and cybersecurity.

Rowena Zamora, the chief strategy officer for GCash, joined Neal Baumann, the global financial services industry leader for Deloitte, and Christiana Riley, the regional head of North America for Banco Santander at a WEF panel entitled “Unlocking the Potential of AI in Financial Services.”

For the Philippines’ leading finance super app and largest cashless ecosystem, GCash, the goal is to utilize technology to break long-standing barriers to financial inclusion.

“We are driven by a vision that is very simple but very difficult to achieve, which is ‘Finance for All’,” shared Zamora. “The Philippines is underpenetrated in terms of financial services. It is a country that faces [many] systemic challenges to inclusion, particularly financial inclusion, so GCash has focused on [using] technology, AI, and other similar enablers to bridge that gap.”

Data as a Catalyst for Inclusivity

The panel then focused on value creation, looking into operational efficiency, customer engagement, and optimizing risk management by harnessing AI.

During the segment, Zamora delivered insights on the lack of identity, credit history, and other documentation necessary for citizens to gain access to basic services.

“In an economy like the Philippines, where the majority of the population is unable to provide what traditional financial institutions need for them to open an account, the challenge is [providing] financial services to the largely unbanked or underbanked population,” she said.

In its pursuit of tech-driven alternatives to traditional solutions, GCash enlisted the help of AI. One such solution was to leverage the Philippines’ high mobile penetration and internet usage rates to address the inclusion challenge. “[Users] might not have the traditional requirements, but they have a digital footprint,” cited Zamora. “They make digital transactions, which we can use as a proxy for what traditional financial institutions typically require.”

This is where GScore, the groundbreaking credit scoring model of GCash, was introduced. GScore uses transactional behavior on the app as a substitute for measuring a person’s creditworthiness. “This has enabled us to unlock over two billion US dollars for micro-loans to seven million Filipinos in the past several years,” added Zamora. “That’s quite huge in a country where credit penetration has been in the low digits. Before the pandemic, only one percent of Filipinos had access to credit.”

Today, GCash is used by 94 million people, who now have access to loans, investments, insurance, and more at their fingertips.

Creating AI Models with a Clear Focus

Looking ahead, the WEF panelists stressed the need to remain strongly focused on the future, both in terms of insights and solutions, to strengthen resilience within the industry. “How we use and the quality of the data that we use [are the other] key considerations,” said Zamora. “Your models will only churn insights based on the kind of data you have, so be very clear about what challenge you’re trying to solve and how technology and AI can help not just address it but leapfrog to scale the solution.”

Abiding by this, GCash endeavors to continue refining its AI-powered models and improve the reach of its offerings by collaborating with the private and public sectors, ensuring no one is left behind in the digital financial revolution.