PASAY CITY, Philippines — A simple act of sharing brought together Copperstone Lending Inc., through Copperstone Cares, 365 Saints Educational Mission Inc., and the Supremus Cavaliers Eagles Club in a recent community feeding program at Pasay City General Hospital.

The initiative provided meals and a gesture of support to patients, families, and members of the hospital community, highlighting the value of partnerships in responding to everyday community needs.

When Care Becomes Action

For Copperstone Lending, community involvement is an important complement to its work in financial services.

Through Copperstone Cares, the company continues to support outreach initiatives that allow it to work alongside organizations and community groups in providing practical assistance to Filipinos.

The feeding activity was an opportunity to put that commitment into action.

For people spending time in a hospital—whether as patients, family members or caregivers—a simple meal can offer a welcome moment of comfort during what may be a difficult experience.

More than the food itself, the activity created an opportunity for volunteers and partner organizations to reach out, connect and serve.

It was a simple gesture, but one grounded in compassion.

Stronger Together

The participation of 365 Saints Educational Mission and Supremus Cavaliers also underscored the importance of collaboration in community initiatives.

Each organization brings its own people, networks and resources. By working toward one shared purpose, those individual contributions can become a stronger collective effort.

For Copperstone Cares, partnerships like this provide an opportunity to reach communities more directly while encouraging more organizations to participate in meaningful outreach.

The initiative also reflects a broader principle behind responsible corporate citizenship: businesses can contribute not only through what they sell or provide, but also through how they engage with the communities around them.

Connecting Business With Community

Copperstone Lending’s core business is focused on financial services and promoting responsible access to formal credit. Through Copperstone Cares, the company extends its community engagement beyond its day-to-day operations.

The feeding program at Pasay City General Hospital is part of that continuing effort.

Rather than viewing community support as a one-time activity, Copperstone Cares aims to build relationships with organizations that share a commitment to helping others and identifying opportunities where collaboration can create meaningful impact.

Continuing the Spirit of Giving

The partnership among Copperstone Cares, 365 Saints Educational Mission and Supremus Cavaliers demonstrates that community service can begin with something simple: seeing a need and choosing to respond.

As Copperstone Cares continues its outreach efforts, the company looks forward to working with more community organizations, civic groups and partners on initiatives that can make a practical difference.

Because sometimes, helping people move forward starts with something as simple as a meal, a helping hand and people willing to show up.

via Money News PH

The post Copperstone Cares Brings 365 Saints and Supremus Cavaliers Together for Community Feeding Program appeared first on Money News.

PARAÑAQUE CITY, Philippines — Copperstone Lending Inc. continues to strengthen its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the Philippines through Copperstone Cares, its community engagement program focused on supporting meaningful initiatives that uplift underserved sectors.

As part of this commitment, Copperstone Cares recently joined a multi-organization outreach activity at the Bahay Pag-Asa Juvenile Center in Parañaque City, providing assistance and encouragement to more than 50 young residents through a feeding program, hygiene kit distribution, and values formation activities.

The community outreach was held on July 18 and brought together volunteers from Live Christ Share Christ (LCSC), 365 Saints Educational Mission, Inc., Negosentro Media, and the Supremus Cavaliers Eagles Club under the International Fraternal Order of Eagles – Philippine Eagles Pro Patria (IFOE). The initiative was organized in close coordination with Bahay Pag-Asa Head Mr. Alex Guian, who welcomed the participating organizations and volunteers.

As one of the event’s principal sponsors, Copperstone Cares helped provide personal hygiene kits, meals, and other essential items distributed to the beneficiaries.

More Than Donations: Investing in Hope

While the outreach addressed practical needs, organizers emphasized that the program’s greatest purpose was to inspire hope and remind young people that positive change is always possible.

The highlight of the activity was a Values Formation and Moral Upliftment Session facilitated by volunteers from the LCSC Parañaque City Chapter, led by couple missionaries Bro. Rodel Sope and Sis. Nilda Sope. Through personal stories, discussions, and words of encouragement, the volunteers challenged participants to embrace responsibility, strengthen their character, and believe in their ability to build a better future.

The session encouraged the youth to look beyond their present circumstances and recognize that every individual deserves compassion, guidance, and another opportunity to succeed.

Organizations United for Community Service

The outreach showcased the impact of collaboration among civic organizations, nonprofit groups, volunteers, and socially responsible companies.

Representing IFOE Philippine Eagles Pro Patria during the activity were International President Kuya Sajid Salih and International Event Director Ate Jane Salih. They were joined by fellow members Kuya Rogelio Laforteza, Kuya Patrick John Bito-on, Ate Maylyn Cabrera, Kuya Milson Aoanan, and Ate Crisadil Gabion, who helped coordinate logistics and the distribution of donated items.

According to Homer Nievera, Chairman of 365 Saints Educational Mission, Inc. and Publisher of Negosentro Media Group, partnerships like these demonstrate how organizations can achieve greater impact when they work toward a common purpose.

“Community transformation begins when people choose to work together. Every outreach activity is an opportunity not only to provide immediate assistance but also to encourage individuals to believe that their lives can move in a better direction through hope, guidance, and support.”

Copperstone Cares Expands Its CSR Mission

For Copperstone Lending Inc., community development remains an important part of responsible corporate citizenship.

Through Copperstone Cares, the company supports projects that extend beyond financial services by partnering with nonprofit organizations, faith-based groups, educational advocates, and volunteer organizations that create meaningful opportunities for underserved communities.

The initiative reflects Copperstone’s belief that businesses can contribute to nation-building by investing in programs that promote dignity, compassion, education, and social responsibility.

Building Stronger Communities Together

Organizers noted that meaningful change becomes possible when companies, civic organizations, volunteers, and local communities work together toward shared goals.

Rather than simply assisting for a day, collaborative outreach activities create lasting memories, strengthen relationships, and inspire hope among beneficiaries who often need encouragement the most.

The Bahay Pag-Asa outreach serves as another example of how public-private partnerships, volunteerism, and corporate social responsibility can positively impact vulnerable sectors while encouraging community participation.

As Copperstone Cares continues to expand its CSR initiatives, Copperstone Lending Inc. remains committed to supporting programs that empower communities, encourage volunteerism, and help create brighter opportunities for future generations.

The post Copperstone Cares Partners with Community Groups to Support Youth at Bahay Pag-Asa in Parañaque appeared first on Money News.

The 32nd National Retail Conference and Expo (NRCE 2026) will be held on August 6–7, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Manila,  gathering thousands of retailers, business leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and solution providers for two days of learning, networking, collaboration, and business transformation, where two of Asia’s most respected business leaders—V.P. Sharma and Joseph Phi—will share global insights on leadership, business expansion, and supply chain transformation.

Organized by the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), this year’s conference coincides with the organization’s Golden Anniversary, celebrating 50 years of advancing Philippine retail through innovation, collaboration, and industry leadership. Carrying the theme “New. Next. Forward.”, NRCE 2026 aims to equip businesses with practical strategies for navigating the future of commerce.

Leading the international keynote lineup is V.P. Sharma, Founder and Group CEO of MAP Group Indonesia, one of Southeast Asia’s largest retail organizations. Over several decades, Sharma transformed MAP Group into a regional retail powerhouse operating thousands of stores representing globally recognized brands. His keynote will focus on building resilient organizations, sustaining long-term growth, and driving customer-centric innovation in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Joining him on Day 2 is Joseph Phi, Group CEO of Li & Fung, whose extensive experience in global sourcing, logistics, and supply chain transformation has helped shape one of the world’s leading supply chain organizations.

As retailers face increasing pressure to deliver faster fulfillment, optimize inventory, and respond to rapidly changing consumer demands, Phi’s expertise offers timely insights into how resilient, technology-enabled supply chains have become a critical competitive advantage. His session will explore how businesses can strengthen operations, improve efficiency, and remain agile in an increasingly interconnected global economy.

Their participation reflects NRCE’s ongoing commitment to bringing internationally recognized thought leaders to the Philippines, giving local retailers direct access to world-class business insights applicable across organizations of all sizes.

Registration is still open for what is expected to be one of the Philippines’ largest and most influential retail gatherings of the year.

The post Retail Visionaries V.P. Sharma and Joseph Phi to Headline Global Business Insights at NRCE 2026 appeared first on Money News.

The retail industry is entering one of the most transformative periods in its history.

Artificial intelligence is changing how consumers discover products. Customer expectations continue to evolve. Supply chains are becoming more interconnected and complex. Digital technologies are redefining business operations. New brands are disrupting established players, while retailers across the Philippines face a common challenge:

How do you stay relevant in a world that refuses to stand still?

For business owners, retail executives, entrepreneurs, marketers, technology providers, and decision-makers, the answers may be found at the 32nd National Retail Conference and Expo (NRCE 2026), happening on August 6–7, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

Organized by the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), this year’s event carries special significance as the organization celebrates its 50th Anniversary, marking five decades of leadership, advocacy, and service to the Philippine retail industry.

With the theme “New. Next. Forward.”, NRCE 2026 serves as both a celebration of the industry’s achievements and a roadmap for navigating the future.

More than a conference, it is where the country’s retail leaders come together to exchange ideas, discover innovations, build partnerships, and prepare for what’s next.

A Golden Milestone for Philippine Retail

The year 2026 marks a historic milestone for the Philippine Retailers Association.

For fifty years, PRA has championed the interests of retailers, helping businesses navigate economic shifts, industry disruptions, changing consumer behavior, and emerging technologies. Through advocacy, education, networking, and industry development initiatives, PRA has played a pivotal role in shaping modern Philippine retail.

As the organization celebrates its Golden Anniversary, NRCE 2026 becomes more than an annual gathering.

It becomes a reflection of how far Philippine retail has come—and an opportunity to define where it is headed next.

At a time when businesses are adapting to rapid technological change and evolving customer expectations, PRA’s 50th year serves as a reminder that resilience, innovation, and collaboration remain the foundations of long-term growth.

Opening Keynotes from Global Retail and Supply Chain Leaders

Setting the tone for this year’s conference are two distinguished Opening Keynote Speakers whose careers have helped shape retail and commerce across Asia and beyond.

V.P. Sharma: Building One of Southeast Asia’s Retail Giants

One of the most anticipated speakers at NRCE 2026 is V.P. Sharma, Founder and Group CEO of MAP Group Indonesia.

Widely regarded as one of Asia’s most accomplished retail entrepreneurs, Sharma transformed MAP Group from a single retail operation into a regional powerhouse with thousands of locations and a portfolio of globally recognized brands.

His keynote is expected to offer invaluable lessons on leadership, customer-centricity, sustainable growth, organizational resilience, and long-term business building.

In an era often focused on short-term results, Sharma’s journey demonstrates the power of vision, discipline, and consistent execution.

Joseph Phi: Reimagining the Future of Global Commerce

Joining Sharma as a Keynote Speaker is Joseph Phi, Group CEO of Li & Fung, one of the world’s most influential supply chain and sourcing companies.

With decades of experience leading global commerce, supply chain transformation, and operational innovation, Phi brings a unique perspective on how retailers can remain competitive in an increasingly interconnected world.

As supply chains continue to evolve amid shifting consumer demands and global market dynamics, his insights are expected to provide attendees with practical strategies for building agility, resilience, and long-term growth.

Together, Sharma and Phi represent two critical pillars of modern retail success: customer-centric retail leadership and world-class supply chain excellence.

Why NRCE Matters More Than Ever

Retail today extends far beyond products and physical stores.

Success now depends on understanding customers across multiple touchpoints, leveraging data effectively, embracing innovation, strengthening supply chains, adopting new technologies, and creating memorable customer experiences.

The organizations that thrive over the next decade will not necessarily be the largest.

They will be the most adaptable.

NRCE 2026 brings together some of the most influential minds in retail, marketing, leadership, technology, logistics, venture capital, and innovation to help businesses understand and navigate these changes.

Over two days, attendees will gain access to keynote presentations, expert-led discussions, case studies, networking opportunities, and a world-class retail expo showcasing solutions that are transforming the industry.

Leadership Remains the Ultimate Competitive Advantage

Technology may be changing the way businesses operate, but leadership remains one of the most important differentiators in any organization.

This is why NRCE 2026 welcomes Louie Banta, CEO and Chief Training Consultant of Learning Just Made Better, Inc.

Having trained leaders across 24 countries and worked with more than 500 organizations worldwide, Banta brings decades of expertise in leadership development, organizational effectiveness, and people transformation.

His session is expected to provide practical insights on leading through uncertainty, building resilient teams, managing change, and creating cultures that thrive in dynamic environments.

Making Sense of AI for Retail

Few topics are generating as much discussion in business today as artificial intelligence.

Retailers understand that AI is changing the landscape, but many continue to ask the same question:

Where do we start?

NRCE 2026 addresses this challenge through a practical session led by RJ Paculan, Managing Director of TBWA\SMP, and Paolo Broma, Chief Marketing Officer of TBWA\SMP.

Rather than focusing on technical jargon, their discussion will explore practical applications of AI, automation, generative search, customer engagement, content creation, and workflow optimization.

Their message is simple: successful AI adoption starts with understanding business problems first and applying the right technologies to solve them.

The future belongs not to organizations that merely understand AI, but to those that know how to apply it effectively.

Understanding the New Customer

Customer expectations continue to evolve at an unprecedented pace.

Retailers today have access to more data than ever before, yet many still struggle to convert information into meaningful action.

This is where Sunita Howe, Head of Marketing for Southeast Asia and India at Meltwater, brings valuable insight.

Her expertise in media intelligence, customer analytics, and brand growth offers retailers a deeper understanding of how data-driven decision-making can strengthen customer engagement, improve marketing performance, and create sustainable competitive advantages.

Investing in the Next Generation of Retail

Innovation often begins long before a company becomes successful.

It starts with identifying opportunities before they become obvious.

That perspective makes Joan Yao, General Partner at Kickstart Ventures, one of the conference’s most anticipated speakers.

Having invested in transformative companies including Xendit, Pickup Coffee, Kumu, Edamama, and Sprout, Yao brings firsthand experience in identifying emerging trends and helping businesses scale.

Her session will provide valuable insights into innovation, entrepreneurship, startup ecosystems, and the future of Southeast Asian business.

Beyond the Stage: A Complete Retail Innovation Ecosystem

NRCE 2026 extends beyond conference sessions.

The event’s expo floor will feature technology providers, retail solution companies, logistics partners, customer engagement platforms, service providers, and innovators from across the region.

Attendees will have opportunities to:

• Discover emerging retail technologies
• Explore AI-powered business solutions
• Learn about customer engagement innovations
• Evaluate logistics and fulfillment platforms
• Connect with suppliers and technology partners
• Build strategic business relationships
• Explore new growth opportunities

For many participants, the connections made during NRCE become just as valuable as the insights shared on stage.

Why You Should Attend NRCE 2026

Whether you are a retailer, entrepreneur, startup founder, investor, marketer, technology provider, supply chain executive, or business leader, the issues being discussed at NRCE directly impact your future success.

Artificial intelligence.

Customer experience.

Leadership.

Innovation.

Supply chain transformation.

Data-driven decision-making.

Business growth.

These are no longer future considerations.

They are today’s realities.

The organizations that understand these shifts earliest often gain the greatest competitive advantage.

Be Part of What’s Next

As the Philippine Retailers Association celebrates its 50th year, NRCE 2026 promises to be one of the most significant gatherings in the event’s history.

It is where industry leaders come together to learn, connect, innovate, and prepare for the future.

The future of retail will not be shaped by those who wait for change.

It will be shaped by those who help create it.

Event Details

August 6–7, 2026
SMX Convention Center Manila
Register now: www.nrce-ph.com

The Future of Retail Starts Here

New technologies are emerging.

New customer expectations are forming.

New opportunities are waiting.

The question is simple:

Will your business be ready for what’s next?

Join thousands of retailers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers at NRCE 2026 and become part of the movement shaping the future of Philippine retail.

New. Next. Forward.

The post NRCE 2026: The Future of Philippine Retail Takes Center Stage This August appeared first on Money News.

On February 27, 2026, the High School Class of 1977 (HS-77), in preparation for their Golden Jubilee in 2027, successfully organized the CHS Golden Golf Cup at South Forbes in Silang, Cavite.

The golf tournament was chaired by Dada Miranda-Cua and co-chaired by Viqui Torres-del Rosario.  Other members of the golf committee were Susie Achacoso-Cruz, Connie Santos-Toledo, Chinggay Cabrera, Issay dela Rosa-Padilla, Brigitte Ignacio, Mace Mendoza, Belle Tiongco and Jingay Guevara-Facuri.

Classmates turned up in full force early that morning—some even staying overnight—to ensure everything was in place before the players arrived. Their dedication set the tone for a smooth, well-run event.

Months of preparation ensured the tournament’s success. These included securing sponsorships in cash and in kind, inviting friends to participate, selling raffle tickets, organizing prizes, planning the food, coordinating sponsor booths, and managing registration.

Close to 100 players joined the CHS Golden Golf Cup, including notable personalities such as Michael V and his wife Carol, Vince Hizon and his wife Patricia Bermudez, and Ronnie Henares. The program was hosted by Kat Abano, with Vince and Patricia Hizon adding warmth and ease as emcees during the awards ceremony.

The turnout was strong, the games proceeded smoothly, and the competition showcased the players’ skill and sportsmanship. Trophies were awarded, and raffle prizes were distributed, marking a successful fundraising event for HS-77.

The success of the CHS Golden Golf Cup was made possible by the collective effort and commitment of the HS-77 classmates.

PLATINUM SPONSORS of the event were METRO PACIFIC INVESTMENTS, SOUTH FORBES GOLF CLUB, MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL, HONORABLE SPEAKER FELICIANO BELMONTE, JR., STELLA TANSENGCO-SCHAPERO & PARIKIT MANILA.  GOLD SPONSORS were MIKE & CONNIE TOLEDO, SPES CONSTRUCTION INC, ASIA LINK FINANCE CORPORATION, SNAP FITNESS, HOME BEAUTIES & GALLERIE GENESIS.

SILVER SPONSORS were Belmont Agricorp, Skin Station, Bueno Group of Companies, Fundador, Over Doughs, Magsalin Law, CEL Logistics, PAL Mabuhay Miles, Dr. Gil Soap & Julie Santos-Gil. BRONZE SPONSORS were 3 Strokes, Timberpro, DBP, BDO Capital, Gourds & Lentils, Minoxiplus, Viqui & Noli del Rosario, Dada & Jimmy Cua, MCC Space, StratEdge.Ph, Sta. Lucia Land, Inc, Mileage Asia, Rhic Rhic Clinic & Dental Laboratory, Beyond Dreams, Vital Water, Mike del Carmen, Yebisu Ramen & Purr Delight.

Minor Sponsors were The Chandelier Events Place, Mang Inasal, Lorraine Sylianteng, Smart Communications, Dra. Patricia Bustos-Lagunda, Marivic Panis-Nisce, Relax Reflexology, Carole Mendoza, Yvette Marcaida-Poe, Mercury Drug, Sugi Makati, Casa Prime, Santinos Pizza, and ENI Lubricants.

On February 27, 2026, the High School Class of 1977 (HS-77), in preparation for their Golden Jubilee in 2027, successfully organized the CHS Golden Golf Cup at South Forbes in Silang, Cavite.

The golf tournament was chaired by Dada Miranda-Cua and co-chaired by Viqui Torres-del Rosario.  Other members of the golf committee were Susie Achacoso-Cruz, Connie Santos-Toledo, Chinggay Cabrera, Issay dela Rosa-Padilla, Brigitte Ignacio, Mace Mendoza, Belle Tiongco and Jingay Guevara-Facuri.

Classmates turned up in full force early that morning—some even staying overnight—to ensure everything was in place before the players arrived. Their dedication set the tone for a smooth, well-run event.

Months of preparation ensured the tournament’s success. These included securing sponsorships in cash and in kind, inviting friends to participate, selling raffle tickets, organizing prizes, planning the food, coordinating sponsor booths, and managing registration.

Close to 100 players joined the CHS Golden Golf Cup, including notable personalities such as Michael V and his wife Carol, Vince Hizon and his wife Patricia Bermudez, and Ronnie Henares. The program was hosted by Kat Abano, with Vince and Patricia Hizon adding warmth and ease as emcees during the awards ceremony.

The turnout was strong, the games proceeded smoothly, and the competition showcased the players’ skill and sportsmanship. Trophies were awarded, raffle prizes distributed, marking a successful fundraising event for HS-77.

The success of the CHS Golden Golf Cup was made possible by the collective effort and commitment of the HS-77 classmates.

PLATINUM SPONSORS of the event were METRO PACIFIC INVESTMENTS, SOUTH FORBES GOLF CLUB, MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL, HONORABLE SPEAKER FELICIANO BELMONTE, JR, STELLA TANSENGCO-SCHAPERO & PARIKIT MANILA.  GOLD SPONSORS were MIKE&CONNIE TOLEDO, SPES CONSTRUCTION INC, ASIA LINK FINANCE CORPORATION, SNAP FITNESS, HOME BEAUTIES & GALLERIE GENESIS.

SILVER SPONSORS were Belmont Agricorp, Skin Station, Bueno Group of Companies, Fundador, Over Doughs, Magsalin Law, CEL Logistics, PAL Mabuhay Miles, Dr. Gil Soap&Julie Santos-Gil. BRONZE SPONSORS were 3 Strokes, Timberpro, DBP, BDO Capital, Gourds&Lentils, Minoxiplus, Viqui & Noli del Rosario, Dada & Jimmy Cua, MCC Space, StratEdge.Ph, Sta. Lucia Land, Inc, Mileage Asia, Rhic Rhic Clinic & Dental Laboratory, Beyond Dreams, Vital Water, Mike del Carmen, Yebisu Ramen & Purr Delight.

Minor Sponsors were The Chandelier Events Place, Mang Inasal, Lorraine Sylianteng, Smart Communications, Dra. Patricia Bustos-Lagunda, Marivic Panis-Nisce, Relax Reflexology, Carole Mendoza, Yvette Marcaida-Poe, Mercury Drug, Sugi Makati, Casa Prime, Santinos Pizza, and ENI Lubricants

The post HS-77 Stages CHS Golden Golf Cup Fundraiser appeared first on Money News.

MANILA, Philippines — The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is advancing a more proactive approach to regulating the country’s rapidly expanding digital lending sector, as concerns grow over consumer protection, transparency, and market conduct.

The regulator is currently developing a preventive framework for online lending platforms, aimed at strengthening oversight while ensuring that innovation in financial services remains aligned with governance standards. The move reflects broader developments in the Philippine financial landscape, where mobile-based lending solutions have gained traction among consumers seeking faster and more accessible credit options.

Speaking at the 44th National Credit Congress in Pasay City, SEC Commissioner Javey Paul D. Francisco cited a noticeable increase in complaints linked to lending activities, particularly within the digital space. These concerns often involve unregistered operators, reports of aggressive or unfair collection practices, questions surrounding interest rates, and gaps in the disclosure of loan terms.

The commissioner noted that while digital lending has expanded financial access, the presence of non-compliant platforms has created challenges in maintaining consumer trust. At the same time, regulators and industry participants continue to distinguish between unauthorized entities and registered lending companies that operate under SEC supervision. Platforms such as MocaMoca, operated by Copperstone Lending Inc., are among those that fall within the regulatory framework and are subject to compliance, reporting, and consumer protection requirements.

The SEC’s proposed guidelines are expected to introduce more structured entry requirements for online lending providers, while reinforcing accountability at the platform level. These measures are designed to ensure that lending companies adhere to clear standards in terms of registration, disclosure practices, data governance, and borrower interaction. By embedding conduct expectations directly into operations, the framework aims to reduce harmful practices while supporting responsible industry players.

Francisco emphasized that lenders cannot shift responsibility to third-party service providers, particularly in areas involving customer communication and loan servicing. Instead, companies are expected to maintain full accountability across all aspects of their operations, including those managed through outsourced arrangements. This approach is intended to strengthen oversight and prevent gaps in responsibility that may affect consumers.

“Digital lending has the potential to expand access and drive growth, but without strong governance, it can undermine the very trust that sustains the credit system,” Francisco said.

The growth of digital lending in the Philippines has been closely linked to ongoing efforts to improve financial inclusion. With a significant portion of the population still underserved by traditional banking institutions, online lending platforms have provided alternative channels for short-term financing. However, regulators have emphasized that the long-term sustainability of the sector depends on maintaining a balance between accessibility and consumer protection.

Discussions during the National Credit Congress highlighted the importance of clear regulatory direction, responsible lending practices, and transparent communication with borrowers. Stakeholders pointed to the need for a more consistent framework that supports both innovation and accountability, particularly as the digital credit ecosystem continues to evolve.

As the SEC moves forward with its proposed regulatory measures, the direction signals a shift toward preventive oversight, where risks are addressed early rather than after issues arise. For borrowers, this may translate into greater clarity and protection. For compliant lending companies, it offers an opportunity to reinforce credibility in a market that is becoming increasingly competitive and closely monitored.

The digital lending sector in the Philippines now stands at a critical juncture. As regulatory frameworks continue to develop, the emphasis remains on ensuring that growth is supported not only by technological innovation but also by transparency, accountability, and trust.

Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

The post SEC Strengthens Oversight of Digital Lending in the Philippines as Industry Risks Emerge appeared first on Money News.

The launch comes as investors increasingly seek ways to stay invested in global innovation amid heightened market volatility, while generating regular income. The volatility of innovation-led stocks can make it challenging to remain invested across market cycles, highlighting the need for strategies that balance growth and income.

The ATRAM Nasdaq Equity Income Feeder Fund combines exposure to innovation with income generation by investing in established Nasdaq-listed companies and employing a covered call strategy that converts market volatility into income.

By selling call options on the Nasdaq-100 Index, the Fund earns premiums that form the core of its income generation. This approach provides ongoing cash flow while allowing investors to remain invested in global technology stocks.

Unlike traditional equity funds that rely primarily on price appreciation, the strategy generates income by monetizing market volatility, offering a more consistent return experience across different market conditions.

The Target Fund, the JPMorgan Nasdaq Equity Premium Income Active UCITS ETF, historically averages an annual income in the range of 9–11%, with distributions expected to be paid monthly. Income levels may vary depending on market conditions, and are not guaranteed.

Ayaz Ebrahim, CEO of Singapore and South East Asia at J.P. Morgan Asset Management, added, “As the world’s largest active ETF provider, covered call strategies have been a cornerstone of our ETF product suite with robust interest across markets. We are excited to partner with ATRAM to bring this innovative solution to Philippine investors in a feeder fund format, addressing their needs for income while offering a smoother equity investment experience.”

“Investors today are no longer choosing between growth and income—they want both,” said Miguel Liboro, Head of Products at ATRAM Trust Corporation. “This Fund allows investors to stay invested in the Nasdaq while generating income from market movements. By converting volatility to cash flow, it helps investors remain invested across market cycles.”

The strategy aims to capture a meaningful portion of Nasdaq returns while delivering a more stable return profile, making it well-suited for sideways, volatile, or gradually rising markets. Upside participation may be moderated during strong market rallies.

The ATRAM Nasdaq Equity Income Feeder Fund is designed for investors seeking:

• Exposure to the world’s leading innovators
• Regular income generated by converting market volatility into cash flow
• More consistent return experience versus traditional Nasdaq equity strategies
• A long-term solution that supports staying invested across market cycles

For more information, including fund details and risk disclosures, visit  https://atram.com.ph/funds/uitf-funds/details?fund=ATRQIAP 

The post ATRAM Launches Nasdaq Equity Income Fund for Monthly Income and Tech Exposure appeared first on Money News.

Passengers of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) can easily avail of the discounted fare via the GCash app by using the GCash Commute QR, NFC-enabled Android phone, or GCash Visa card. Commuters can skip the ticketing booth lines and go directly to the platforms, making travel more convenient and seamless.

The GCash payment schemes have been up and running at MRT-3 since July last year, providing commuters with cashless options for their daily travels.

The goal is simple: to make everyday transactions more affordable, accessible, and seamless for Filipinos.

For more information, please visit https://help.gcash.com/hc/en-us/articles/49102305024025-Can-I-use-GCash-for-transportation

The post #GCashTipidTips: DOTr-mandated 50% discounted MRT-3 fares can be availed via GCash  appeared first on Money News.

Philippines, April 2026 — As mobile internet penetration continues to grow, more Filipinos are turning to mobile applications to manage their daily financial needs, with short-term lending increasingly integrated into these digital behaviors.

As one of Southeast Asia’s more mobile-active markets, internet usage in the Philippines continues to rise, with smartphones serving as the primary gateway to financial services. From e-wallets to online lending, mobile platforms are reshaping how users engage with finance.

Compared to traditional, offline-based lending channels, more users today prefer to explore and apply for financial services independently through apps. This shift reflects a broader trend toward more convenient, flexible, and user-centric financial solutions.

Against this backdrop, mobile-first lending apps are gaining traction. LoadCash, as one representative platform, has surpassed 500,000 downloads. Through LoadCash, users can complete the entire loan application process directly on their phones, without collateral or complex documentation, significantly lowering access barriers.

From a product perspective, LoadCash offers personal credit-based loan services, with loan amounts of up to ₱50,000. Before users confirm a loan, LoadCash provides a clear breakdown of applicable fees and total repayment amounts, enabling users to better understand the cost of borrowing upfront.

In terms of repayment, LoadCash aligns with widely used digital payment habits in the Philippines. Users can repay via e-wallets such as GCash, PayMaya, GrabPay, and ShopeePay, as well as through offline channels like 7-Eleven and M Lhuillier. This flexibility allows borrowing and repayment to integrate more seamlessly into everyday financial management.

The application process on LoadCash is relatively straightforward. Eligible users need to be Filipino citizens with a valid ID and mobile number to apply. Users with strong credit profiles may also qualify for higher loan amounts.

While convenience continues to improve, responsible borrowing remains essential. When using mobile lending apps such as LoadCash, loan approvals and limits are typically based on individual credit assessments. Users are encouraged to evaluate their financial needs and repayment capacity carefully and maintain a good repayment record.

From a broader perspective, the growth of mobile lending platforms like LoadCash reflects how financial services are increasingly embedded in everyday digital life. Striking a balance between user experience, transparency, and responsible borrowing will remain a key focus for the industry.

The post Mobile lending is gradually becoming part of everyday financial choices in the Philippines appeared first on Money News.

MANILA, Philippines — April 3, 2026 — The Securities and Exchange Commission has issued a renewed warning against the continued operation of unauthorized online lending platforms, highlighting persistent risks to borrowers despite an ongoing regulatory crackdown.

In its April 1 advisory, the SEC identified several mobile applications, websites, and social media pages that remain active even without authorization to operate as lending platforms. These entities, the Commission stressed, are not permitted to offer or process loans under SEC Memorandum Circular No. 10, Series of 2021, which imposed a moratorium on new online lending platforms beginning November 2021.

The advisory also flagged a number of impersonator platforms—applications and websites posing as legitimate, SEC-registered lending companies. These include fake versions of known operators, raising concerns over identity misuse, borrower deception, and potential data privacy violations.

Regulators noted that such schemes have become increasingly sophisticated, often leveraging familiar brand names and aggressive online marketing to attract unsuspecting users. In many cases, victims only realize the fraud after experiencing abusive collection practices or unauthorized access to personal data.

The warning comes amid continued efforts by authorities, including coordination with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, to dismantle illegal digital lending operations and protect consumers in the fast-growing fintech space.

Industry observers say the development underscores the widening gap between regulated lenders and unlicensed operators. While unauthorized platforms continue to proliferate, legitimate lending companies—such as Copperstone Lending—have emphasized compliance, transparency, and cooperation with regulators as key pillars of rebuilding trust in the sector.

Responsible lenders have increasingly aligned themselves with government efforts, supporting stricter enforcement measures and promoting borrower education to counter the spread of fraudulent apps.

The SEC reiterated that borrowers should only transact with companies listed in its official registry of authorized online lending platforms. It also advised the public to remain cautious of apps that offer unusually fast approvals, unclear loan terms, or request excessive access to personal data.

Consumers are encouraged to report suspicious platforms through the Commission’s official channels, as authorities continue to monitor and take action against illegal operators.

As digital lending becomes more embedded in everyday financial activity, regulators stress that informed borrowing and choosing legitimate providers remain critical to protecting both personal finances and data security.

The post SEC Warns vs Illegal Loan Apps; Calls for Stronger Public Vigilance and Responsible Lending appeared first on Money News.