When GCash was first launched in October 2004, it revolutionized the way we handle money transfers with its innovative SMS-based platform. Globe Telecom's response to Smart Communications' Smart Padala was a game-changer, catering to the needs of countless Filipinos who were underserved by traditional banking options back then.
In that same year, I also decided to join GCash, and I was fortunate enough to have my account verified in 2007.
Since I haven't been actively using GCash, I decided to uninstall the app from my device. In 2017, I decided to re-install the GCash app and actively participate in every event organized by GCash and Globe. Since then, I have been regularly using my GCash account. However, I must admit that I am not well-versed in utilizing this application. Consequently, I find myself struggling to comprehend its functionality.
I have noticed that things tend to change gradually, and one thing I have discovered is that GCash is incredibly useful, especially during the lockdown period. GCash plays a significant role in my daily life. It has become my primary source of income and a financial lifeline for me.
FUSE LENDING
Now that they have launched GCash Borrow, life has become easier and better. I have no issues when it comes to paying my bills, whether it be online or offline shopping.
Are you aware that you have the option to borrow money and improve your financial situation using GCash? Yes, I have been using GCASH BORROW since last year. If you frequently use GCash, you are likely aware of how to access GCash Borrow through the app. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with navigating your GCash account.
Please take a look at the important information regarding the following services under the category of BORROW: GLoan, GGives, and GCredit.
When I received an e-invite from GCash for the highly anticipated launch of their Fuse Lending service, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. Without a moment's hesitation, I eagerly accepted the invitation, eager to witness firsthand the innovative solutions that GCash has in store for us. As an avid user of GCASH BORROW, I must say that I am absolutely enamored with this innovative financial solution. The convenience and ease it offers are simply unparalleled. However, my curiosity has been piqued, and I find myself yearning to delve deeper into the intricacies of this remarkable product. I am eager to uncover the exciting new services that GCASH has in store for its loyal users like myself. The anticipation is palpable, and I simply cannot wait to embark on this journey of discovery.
When I became eligible to avail of GCash Borrow, I decided to give their GLoan service a try. Once I had diligently submitted all the necessary requirements, the process became a breeze, and to my delight, I was swiftly granted approval for a loan amounting to P2000 minus P150, so I only received P1850.
I am thrilled to announce that I have successfully paid off my first loan well in advance of the expected due date. So, I decided to give it another shot and applied for a loan once more. To my surprise, they approved my request and granted me a sum of P5000. As usual, the amount was finally credited to my account. After deducting a service charge of P150, I was left with P4850. In my latest financial endeavor, I have committed to paying a total of P755.06 over a span of 9 months. This financial commitment is not to be taken lightly, as it requires careful budgeting and planning. However, I am confident that with proper discipline and financial management, I will be able to fulfill this obligation and achieve my desired financial goals.
So, I decided to give GGives a shot, but unfortunately, I haven't met the qualifications to use it just yet.
In my quest to unlock the coveted GGives service, I find myself exploring various features within my GCash app. It has come to my attention that in order to boost my GScore, I must engage with other services offered by GCash. This realization has prompted me to delve deeper into the app's functionalities, as I eagerly strive to unlock the doors to GGives.
Since GGives is currently unavailable, I am considering using GCredit if it has been unlocked. Oh no! I am pleased to inform you that my GCredit is now available.
Initially, I was granted a credit limit of P4500. However, I only utilized P676 of that amount. I am pleased to inform you that I have recently made a full payment to settle the outstanding balance. This is to test the functionality of the GCredit using the GCash app.
Today, I decided to take a look at my GCredit account, and to my utter surprise, I discovered that my credit limit has been significantly reduced! I can't quite put my finger on it, but for some reason, perhaps due to my lack of utilization of my initial credit limit, I haven't been using it as diligently as I should.
So here's the thing, guys. I recently made a purchase and I thought I had it all sorted out. I mean, I paid the full amount, right? But guess what? I just found out that there's still a teeny tiny remaining balance of P0.06. Can you believe it? I mean, seriously, what's up with that? It's got me scratching my head, that's for sure.
Today, I wanted to discuss a topic that has been on my mind lately. So, I stumbled upon something interesting and I couldn't help but wonder, what is this? I'm sure many of you have experienced that feeling of curiosity when you come across something new or unfamiliar. Well, that's exactly what I must admit, I find myself grappling with a certain level of perplexity. Isn't it just absolutely hilarious? So, here's the deal: if you happen to have a remaining balance of P0.06 and you choose not to pay it, brace yourself for a potential increase. Why, you ask? Well, that's because there's a 5% interest fee per month waiting to be slapped onto that balance. Well, I wanted to dive into a topic that has been on my mind lately and seek your insights as well.
GCredit Interest Rate
Vs. Other Philippine credit cards
When it comes to credit cards, there are certainly options out there that offer lower interest rates than GCredit. However, I personally find myself gravitating towards GCredit for one key reason: its requirements. Let me explain why. Unlike many other Philippine credit cards, GCredit boasts a streamlined and hassle-free application process. Gone are the days of endless paperwork and stringent qualifications. With GCredit, the requirements are refreshingly minimal, making it accessible to a wider range of individuals. This user-friendly approach is particularly appealing to me because it means I can enjoy the benefits of a credit card without jumping through hoops. Whether you're a young professional just starting out or someone looking to rebuild their credit, GCredit offers a convenient solution that doesn't discriminate based on your financial history or current circumstances. In addition to its lenient requirements, GCredit also offers a range of features and perks that enhance the overall user experience. From flexible payment terms to personalized credit limits, this credit card truly caters to the needs and preferences of its customers. So, while other credit cards may boast lower interest rates, I prefer to use GCredit!
Fuse Lending is currently expanding its services, including the introduction of the new GLoan Sakto, GCredit Sakto and GGives Sakto . This expansion comes at a particularly opportune time.
GLoan Sakto Loan is a convenient cash loan solution offered by GCash. With GLoan Sakto, you can instantly borrow amounts ranging from PHP 100 to PHP 500. If you are new to borrowing money, this loan is a great option for you. It offers short payment terms and minimal fees, making it an ideal choice. This cash loan can be paid back within either 14 or 30 days, with no interest charged.
If you find yourself in need of extra cash to pay bills or make purchases from over 200,000 GCash partner merchants, you can rely on your GLoan Sakto. Additionally, you have the option to cash out your loan for additional funds to cover other essential expenses.
There is no need to submit an application as this loan has already been pre-approved.
GGives Sakto Loan is a user-friendly loan option that allows you to conveniently make online, physical, and GLife store payments for any purchase.
GGives Sakto Loans offers you the convenience of purchasing what you need today and providing the flexibility to pay for it either after 14 or 30 days. It can be used at more than 110,000 partner stores and branches across the country. Stores should have the capability to accept GGives so that you can conveniently shop using GGives Sakto Loans.
Continue using GGives Sakto Loan, and you may eventually become eligible for the regular GGives offer.
Introducing the latest addition to the financial landscape: the GCredit Sakto Loan. This exciting new offering is set to revolutionize the way we approach borrowing and lending. With its user-friendly interface and convenient features, GCredit Sakto Loan is poised to become the leading online credit card in the Philippines.
In an exciting development, the renowned financial super app GCash has joined forces with Fuse Lending Inc. to broaden their lending portfolio. This collaboration has given birth to a groundbreaking feature called "sakto," which empowers users to borrow even the smallest amounts, starting from a mere P100. This latest offering is set to revolutionize the lending landscape, making it more accessible and convenient for individuals in need of quick financial assistance. With GCash and Fuse Lending Inc. at the helm, users can now experience the ease and flexibility of borrowing at their fingertips.
In a recent statement, Tony Isidro, the chief executive of Fuse, an affiliate of Globe, expressed his excitement about the launch of Sakto Loans. This new addition to their suite of lending options, which already includes GLoan, GCredit, and GGives, aims to provide users with a seamless and hassle-free borrowing experience right at their fingertips. With just a few taps on their phones, individuals can now access the funds they need, thanks to the convenience offered by Sakto Loans.
A shocking nine out of ten Filipinos are required to seek financial assistance in order to meet their daily needs, according to a recent study by GCash. However, the stringent loan application procedures imposed by formal institutions and banks have left more than half of the population with no choice but to turn to informal lenders, who often charge exorbitant interest rates and, in some cases, resort to abusive collection methods.
Here at GCash, we are immensely proud of the fact that our journey and triumphs are deeply grounded in reality. In a recent statement, Martha Sazon, the chief executive of GCash, expressed the profound bond that exists between their company and its valued customers. She emphasized the strong connection that GCash has established with its user base, highlighting the importance of this relationship. This sentiment reflects the dedication and commitment that GCash holds towards its customers, ensuring that their needs and satisfaction remain at the forefront of their operations. Sazon's words serve as a testament to the genuine and authentic connection that GCash strives to maintain with each and every individual who utilizes their services.
In a recent statement, she expressed the importance of truly knowing and empathizing with others. It's not just about superficial knowledge but about delving deep into their circumstances. By doing so, we can better comprehend the struggles they face on a daily basis. And that's where our role comes in—we are committed to being by their side, offering innovative digital solutions that alleviate the hurdles they encounter. It's all about making their lives easier and more manageable.
Over 79 million people in the Philippines use GCash to make online transactions that are quick, safe, and easy. It is the number one finance super app in the Philippines. Data.ai, a trusted third-party platform, says that GCash is the #1 Finance Super App in the country because it has the most downloads, the most monthly active users, and even the most daily active users, meaning that people use it every day.
GCash was the first company in the country to use the QR payment system. It first came out as an SMS platform in 2005 and then as a super app in 2012. During the pandemic, it helped Filipinos move to digital services. Now that the world is back open, it is expanding its services to meet the changing needs of Filipinos in the digital financial world.
At this year's #GCashFutureCast event, GCash showed 10 ground-breaking innovations for every Filipino that will shape the future of Fintech.
Tools for Financial Freedom
GCash has made it easy and convenient to use money management tools like savings, insurance, and investments. Now, it makes products that help people grow their money and keep it safe.
The GCash app lets people buy and sell stocks online through GStocksPH, which is run by AB Capital Securities, Inc. Its trading interface was made to be easy to use and simple by working with the Philippine Stock Exchange. Users can now trade the stocks of more than 280 local companies through GStocks PH. Soon, more people will be able to use GStocks PH.
Users can learn about and explore the world of Crypto and NFTs with GCrypto. On the GCrypto NFT Hub, users can see collections like The House of OhLala by Filipino contemporary artist Reen Barrera. A PDAX-powered exchange makes it easier to buy and sell cryptocurrency. PDAX is the leading cryptocurrency exchange in the Philippines.
For just P34, GInsure Online Shopping Protect insurance covers all of a user's online purchases for 60 days and up to P20,000. The insurance covers situations in which orders are not delivered, are accidentally damaged, are not as described, or are stolen. The insurance product, which is powered by Chubb, is built into the user's online GCash payment journey across 1,500 online shops and platforms.
GCash goes global
With GCash's new services, Filipinos can now travel without cash anywhere in the world. Filipinos who live outside of the country can now use GCash to send money and help to their families back home.
Filipino travelers can use GCash Global Pay to pay with QR codes at Alipay+ stores in Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, Qatar, Germany, Italy, France, and the UK. This saves you the trouble of having to pay with cash or take money out of an ATM, where you may have to pay high service fees. It lets you charge in Forex in real time, and there are no service fees.
With a GCash Card, travelers can buy foreign currency in real time at low exchange rates and no service fees. With this, people can use their money with just one tap at more than 100 million stores in 200 countries and territories around the world that are part of VISA's huge network. This means that travelers can shop and eat without any trouble, no matter where they are. Later this year, you'll be able to get the new GCash card.
GCash Overseas, Filipinos living in Japan, Australia, Italy, and the United States can use their international SIM cards to download GCash. Now they can send money to their families back home, buy loads, and pay bills for them. When they send money to another GCash account, they don't have to pay a fee. This saves them the cost of remittance fees. GCash also announced that it is now available in both the United Kingdom and Canada. GCash Overseas is currently in Beta, which means that only a small number of people can use it. Soon, though, more people will be able to use it.
Borrowing made easier
Filipinos can now buy now and pay later with no credit cards, no extra paperwork, no down payment, and now no interest at certain merchants thanks to GGives. Users of GCash can now buy things in stores or online without the usual restrictions that come with payment plans.
Borrow Load will let eligible users borrow their favorite load promos today for free, so they can still enjoy their favorite entertainment even if they don't have much money. With load deals that last up to 7 days, they can now afford to use apps that use a lot of data. Borrow Load will soon be available to more people.
Improved security and user experience
GCash has added two new features that will make transactions safer and easier:
A new, user-friendly messenger feature GChat makes it easy to talk and transact with contacts, share receipts instantly, and track transaction histories. The feature makes it easier to find conversations with friends, merchants, and customers, while Gigi and Advisories provide real-time support. GChat will launch in a few months.
DoubleSafe is the newest security feature for GCash that stops scammers from taking over accounts. It adds another layer of security on top of 2-Factor Authentication and the mobile PIN (MPIN). DoubleSafe will be activated the first time a user logs in to a new mobile phone. If the user accidentally gives their MPIN and OTP to thieves, facial recognition will protect their account.
GCash CEO Ms. MARTHA SAZON
Martha Sazon, the CEO of GCash, stated during the FutureCast event, "GCash has empowered and encouraged every Filipino to maintain optimism and pursue growth." Being the number one Finance Super App in the Philippines and the first finance app to become a household name in the nation, GCash is positioned to empower everyone to be future-ready. "With GCash's ten new breakthroughs, our hopes for a better future begin now."
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Residents of Sitio Panaga, Paquibato District, Davao City, now have access to a basic water supply. Apo Agua Infrastuctura, Inc. (Apo Agua) installed a water system in their community in collaboration with the Davao City Police Department's Revitalized Pulis sa Barangay (RPSB).
Apo Agua representatives turned over the 1,500 meters of pipes to leaders of Sitio Panaga in Paquibato District, led by Barangay Colosas Kagawad Merlinda Bacus, Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative Datu Gilbert Sagoksok, and Revitalized Pulis sa Barangay personnel.
Apo Agua's recent donation to the DCPO of 1,500 meters of pipes and construction materials. RPSB's small-scale water solution project in Barangay Colosas will benefit more than 350 indigenous households from the Ata-Manobo community in Panaga Village, Brgy. Datu Libayao Elementary School students, and the Council Complex.
The small-scale water system, dubbed "Project Blue," aims to alleviate the persistent water shortage problems with accessibility in more communities that will not directly benefit from the Bulk Water Project.
It introduces sustainable small-scale water solutions, such as water catchment facilities and water pipelines, in host communities and encourages residents' engagement as active partners for a viable project.
Water now flows from the newly rehabilitated water reservoir in Sitio Panaga, Paquibato District.
Residents of Barangay Colosas are grateful to Apo Agua and the DCPO for addressing water scarcity.
"We are grateful for Apo Agua's support for RPSB programs. This water augmentation for the barangay would not have been possible without their help. Our IP brothers and sisters have long wished for a better water supply. "As they say, water is life and the most basic need in any place," said PLT. Gary Aldaba, team leader of RBSP Barangay Colosas.
"Project Blue" demonstrates that the Filipinos' most prized culture of "Bayanihan"—helping others and working together to achieve common goals—is still very much alive.
Apo Agua hopes that by strengthening the spirit of collaboration among local community stakeholders, these water solutions will bridge the gap in resource allocation and improve teamwork to ensure that water supply sources are safeguarded and sustained.
"Our goal is to provide small-scale water solutions in our immediate communities through Project Blue. Our team includes engineers with technical expertise in water operations, and we can put that knowledge to use by collaborating closely with the community and ensure that these projects are effective and long-term," said Apo Agua President Anna Lu.
Meanwhile, the Aboitiz-led Apo Agua has pledged to be a long-term partner of the Davao City Water District (DCWD) by assisting in the mobilization of the Water Truck initiative as an intermediary water solution for Davao City residents while the Bulk Water Project nears completion.
Door-to-door water delivery, particularly in areas with intermittent water supplies, has served more than 5,000 households in the city’s Second District since June 2022.
About Apo Agua
Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. is building one of the Philippines’ largest private bulk water supply facilities that will supply over 300 million liters per day of safe and sustainable water to the Davao City Water District for the people of Davao City. The company entered into an agreement with DCWD to shift the dependence of Davao City’s main water supply from groundwater wells to the more sustainably sourced surface water of the Tamugan River.
For the past decade. I have been blogging on Indak-Indak and Pamulak, but an opportunity suddenly opened itself that I simply cannot ignore. It's a last-minute invitation from LIONHEARTTV, stating that they needed attendance from a representative at the GMA REGIONAL TV Mediacon, which will take place over the course of two days.
August 19, 6PM. Ms. Lariza Garcia informed me via Facebook message that LionHeartTV requires a representative to gather film from the two-day GMA REGIONAL TV Mediacon scheduled for August 20 "LOLONG" and 21 "STARTUPPH" at 1:00 p.m. respectively. I responded affirmatively. Ms. Garcia then introduced me to Mr. Richard Paglicawan of LionHeartTV.
I've been a part of GMA Mediacon for three years, and I assumed that this event would not take place due to our current health rules. When Mr. Paglicawan asks me if I am okay to undergo an antigen test, I am apprehensive to submit to the procedure. I should note that I am unvaccinated and this is my first antigen test. But he assured me not to worry because the SALIVA ANTIGEN TEST is quick and simple. Then I consent to the procedure, and Ms. Irene Fernando of GMA REGIONAL TV text message me asking for my address, and on the same day I receive my antigen kit.
August 19, 11PM. Kit was delivered. Upon receiving the kit, I immediately begin the testing procedure. Viola! I'm NEGATIVE!
August 20. 12 noon. Having been asked to bring along an additional member of the Davao Social Media, I arrived at Asia Restaurant very early to accompany one of my group's representatives. He would need to pass a screening before being admitted to the event itself. Thank God he's negative as well.
The cast of Lolong experienced delayed flights, which resulted in the mediacon starting later than expected. They are required to consume their meal and then spend some time to relax after arriving.
August 20, 3PM. Mediacon began. The cast of Lolong introduced themselves prior to the Q&A portion.
From left: Rochelle Pangilinan, Arra San Agustin, Ruru Madrid and Shaira Diaz
Lolong, a story of a man's incredible bond with a huge crocodile named Dakila, is produced by GMA Public Affairs' award-winning team. Ruru Madrid, Shaira Diaz, Arra San Agustin, Christopher de Leon, Jean Garcia, Bembol Roco, Malou de Guzman, Rochelle Pangilinan, Paul Salas, Marco Alcaraz, Mikoy Morales, and Maui Taylor comprise the show's formidable cast.
Kapuso Kadayawan Festival GMA Regional TV Mediacon held at Asia Restaurant, Davao City
As the show entered a new phase in August, viewers were introduced to Vin Abrenica, Thea Tolentino, Alma Concepcion, Rafael Rosell, and Lucho Ayala as new characters.
Every night, the history of the Atubaws continues to unfold and more secrets are revealed. The conflict between the Atubaw and Bansons has begun. Will Lolong succeed in rescuing his people? Whose will be the next fatality?
The crocodile-themed drama series, directed by Rommel Penesa and Conrado Peru, was conceived by award-winning broadcast journalist and GMA News mainstay Jessica Soho and Assistant Vice President for GMA Public Affairs LJ Castel.
Davao Media, Davao Social Media, and Content Creators with the cast of LOLONG
After the Mediacon, they head to Gaisano Grand City Gate for a day dedicated to fans. I was unable to join them because I had to attend a prior engagement.
August 21. 12 noon. Again, I must arrive early because I am asked to introduce another member of our Davao Social Media and Content Creators group. Before entering the area, he must be screened. Likewise, he is negative!
This time mediacon will be held at Cafe Julieta.
As soon as I arrived at the location, I ensured that the lighting was superior than that of the prior video I had taken. I don't like to make mistake again in filming. While we wait, we enjoy a scrumptious lunch and a briefing from the GMA team, discussing the flow of the mediacon, who will begin the questioning, etc.
At 2:00 p.m., the actors of Lolong arrived at Cafe Julieta from Pamulak. They grab lunch first, followed by the mediacon.
The last time I interviewed Alden Richard was when he promoted his television series "THE GIFT" in Davao City, and that was in 2019. I'm really eager to see Alden Richard again because it's been so long since we've seen each other.
It was my first time interviewing Jeric Gonzales, and I think he has a lot of potential and is already showing signs of being a great celebrity in the future.
From left: Jeric Gonzales and Alden Richards
Alden co-stars alongside the multitalented Kapuso actress Bea Alonzo in Start-Up PH. GMA Network announced at the beginning of this year that it has acquired the exclusive rights to create a local remake of the hit South Korean television series 2020. Based on the original format "Start Up" created by Hyeryeon Park and produced by Studio Dragon Corporation, co-produced by Studio Dragon and CJ ENM, "Start-Up" evaluates one of the world's most advanced tech sectors and provides a glimpse of the struggles and obstacles one must overcome to build a successful business from scratch.
Yasmien Kurdi, Gabby Eigenmann, Jackie Lou Blanco, Ayen Munji-Laurel, Nio Muhlach, Lovely Rivero, Neil Ryan Sese, Boy 2 Quizon, Royce Cabrera, Kevin Santos, Tim Yap, Kaloy Tingcungco, Brianna Bunagan, Gianna Llanes, and Ms. Gina Alajar are also featured in the film, which was directed by Jerry Sineneng and Dominic Zapata.
Davao Media, Davao Social Media, and Content Creators with the cast of START UP PH
After the mediacon they proceed to Vista Mall Davao to have their fans day. As usual, I haven't join them because of prior engagement (again).
With that, my Kadayawan Experience for the year 2022 comes to a conclusion. Wishing everyone a merry Kadayawan and hoping to see you all again next year!
Thank you again LIONHEARTTV and GMA REGIONAL TV.
On August 15, 2022, the Kadayawan Festival was officially opened headed by our city mayor Sebastian "Baste" Duterte, which took place at the Bantawan Theatre in Magsaysay Park. It started with MISA PASALAMAT followed by PAG-ABLI SA KADAYAWAN.I watched the event through their Facebook page's ONLINE STREAMING.
Moving ahead. The 17th of August, I had planned to cover THE HIYAS SA KADAYAWAN Coronation Night at RMC-PETRON GAZZ ARENA, but I had to take my daughter to the dentist. This is her first visit to COOL SMILE DENTAL CLINIC, which is located in front of NCCC MALL Victoria Plaza on JP Laurel Avenue in Davao City.
Following her scheduled dental cleaning, we made a purchase at NCCC MALL VP. Then I noticed that NCCC MALL VP had undergone significant changes; the department store, mall, and supermarket all have superb air conditioning.
BTW, before we went to NCCC MAll VP, I was able to send a note to Sir FredJohn Lumantas of Public Relations at LTS Pinnacle Holdings, Inc. NCCC Group of Companies. I ask him who should be interviewed for KADAYAWAN AT THE DOME and he responded immediately. Thanks Sir Fred!
We made our way to the KADAYAWAN AT THE DOME, which is situated at the back of the NCCC MALL VP, and I was astounded by the activities that were taking on inside the dome.
There are numerous Food Exhibitors present, in addition to products from Local Farmers and Small and Medium Entrepreneurs from Davao who sell products from Davao and Mindanao. And I got the chance to interview Sir Christian Robles Formentos, CKC lead organizer.
I also had the opportunity to check out the Picturesque Davao 360° Slow Mo Video Shot, for which I waited an hour to try out this popular viral video. For P40 you will have this video shot!
The wait for the 360° video shot was well worth it! Thanks so much Sir Robert Salogares of Picturesque Davao.
Part 2 of my Kadayawan Festival adventure concludes here. See you on my next blog post Part 3.
You can read my Part 1 Kasikas sa Kadayawan experience here.
Concentrix Philippines made history on August 18 by simultaneously launching its three newest locations around the country. These locations were the Giga Tower in Bridgetowne, Quezon City; One Montage in Cebu Business Park; and Davao Finance Center in Davao Park District. Staff members from Concentrix, as well as leaders and partners from the public and private sectors, attended the inaugural event and toured the facilities in their respective cities. Additionally present was Chris Caldwell, President and Chief Executive Officer of Concentrix.
Present during the ribbon-cutting ceremony in Davao were Concentrix DFC Site Director RJ Yonson, Davao City Councilor Bernie Al-Ag, Concentrix VP of Delivery Tonichi Parekh, Asia CEO Forum Chairman Richard Mills, Concentrix Davao Site Director Ellen Garcia
The "One Concentrix Nation" inaugural event shows the incredible expansion of Concentrix and the company's efforts to provide job possibilities across the nation. The positions of the three sites correlate to the three major island groups of Mindanao, Visayas, and Luzon.
The developments further strengthen Concentrix's position as the nation's largest private employer, with around 100,000 employees, and increase the company's total number of sites in the Philippines to 50, located in 20 cities for its physical operations.
"Our journey in the Philippines has always been about growth," says Amit Jagga, SVP and Country Leader for Concentrix Philippines. We've expanded from a handful to 100,000 in 16 years. Launching 3 new sites represents a huge growth milestone and the chance to go further. It's a sign of our continuous expansion and dedication to the Philippines: we'll keep investing in job possibilities for as many brilliant Filipinos as possible. The nationwide multi-site launch showed that when we expand our footprint, jobs and other economic prospects spread to those locations.
All three locations, Giga, One Montage Cebu, and the Davao Finance Center, are open around the clock and have a total floor space that is close to 30,000 square meters. Clients come from a variety of industries, including communications, financial services, retail, technology, travel, healthcare, and content moderation, and staff members provide support for these sectors. Because of the large number of people looking for work in Quezon City and Cebu City, both Giga and Montage have established recruitment hubs in those cities.
Concentrix invests on the workplace and employee experience. "Staff experience is a high focus for Concentrix, so it's crucial to examine what's meaningful and relevant to their needs and situations," says Hazel Banas, VP of People Solutions in the Philippines. How secure, conducive, well-resourced, and supported the workforce is, how we promote ease and access to information or services they need, and how we reward and engage them are all vital. We want flexible, modern facilities. Our environments integrate functionality, efficiency, and creativity. We also ask staff what they want, so no two sites are alike. Two locations can have gyms while one can't. Local teams decide.
A solid commitment to sustained expansion and investment in the country and its talent has made Country Leader Amit Jagga excited about the great impact it will continue to make, and he is looking forward to seeing what the future holds. He says, "We anticipate the growth rate to continue being considerable levels in line with the rise in business that clients offer to us, including new client logos, all of which raise the demand for us to hire new employees." As a result, we are really eager to spread the word about our sites and to welcome new members to Concentrix. If this trajectory continues leading up to 2023, and even though we are unable to give forward-looking statements as a publicly traded company, if we get close to double-digit percentage growth from the 100K scale we have today, that's anywhere from 8,000 to 10,000 staff net growth that we can expect to see.
Concentrix Philippines was given the "Highly Commended" accolade for Excellence in Employee Experience in the global Gartner Communication Awards 2022. Additionally, Concentrix Philippines has been recognized as one of Asia's Best Employer Brands for the past two years running. In addition to this, it is the lone recipient of the special prize given out by the ICT Awards 2021 for "Outstanding Use of ICT Services To Fight COVID-19."
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About Concentrix
Concentrix Corporation (Nasdaq: CNXC), is a leading global provider of customer experience (CX) solutions and technology, improving business performance for some of the world’s best brands including over 100 Fortune Global 500 clients and more than 125 new economy clients. Every day, from more than 40 countries and across 6 continents, our staff delivers next generation customer experience and helps companies better connect with their customers. We create better business outcomes and help differentiate our clients by reimagining everything CX through Strategy + Talent + Technology. Concentrix provides services to clients in our key industry verticals: technology & consumer electronics; retail, travel & ecommerce; banking, financial services & insurance; healthcare; communications & media; automotive; and energy & public sector. Visit www.concentrix.com to learn more.
Puerto Princesa, Palawan (Aug. 5, 2022) --Francis B. Lara Ho, a Filipino-American producer based in the United States, and Michael Copon, a Filipino-American actor and director, are collaborating on the film "1521," which will depict a clandestine love story set against the epic clash between pre-colonial Filipinos and Spanish forces of Ferdinand Magellan in Mactan, Philippines over 500 years ago.
Left to right: Francis B. Lara Ho (producer); Danny Trejo; Bea Alonzo; Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan; Michael Copon; Costas Mandylor; Hector David Jr.; and Terry Amos.
The film boasts a powerhouse cast including Copon, renowned American actor Danny Trejo, Filipino superstar Bea Alonzo, and award-winning actress Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan.
Didi or Diwata, the protagonist of "1521," fantasizes about being transported to pre-colonial Philippines while touring the remnants of an ancient Spanish fort. In her dream, she is a local princess who falls in love with Enrique, Magellan's attractive translator, and their passion becomes entangled in the struggle.
As soon as Didi awakens, the border between her dream and reality begins to blur, and the situation becomes increasingly complex.
The majority of the film will also be told through Lapu-perspective, Lapu's who is considered the first Filipino hero for leading the forces that beat the Spaniards.
Michael Copon
Copon, who will both direct and portray Lapu-Lapu in the film, stated that he undertook the project to promote Filipino history and culture. "Nobody is aware of what happened to Magellan. Some Americans believe he recently died. And oftentimes, the history of the Philippines is swept under the rug, unnoticed, which led to the passion that we wanted to embrace those stories and embrace the culture, and say, 'Hey! Let me get this out there,'" said Copon, who is known for his roles in "Power Rangers Time Force" and "One Tree Hill."
"Even more historically significant is the fact that this is the first time a Hollywood director and producer are creating a film about a Filipino subject with Hollywood stars and Filipino stars in the same film," he added.
Danny Trejo
Magellan will be played by Trejo, who featured in the "Machete" and "From Dusk till Dawn" film series. Alonzo will play Diwata, while Hector David Jr., who previously participated in "Power Rangers," will represent her romantic interest Enrique.
Hector David Jr.
Copon stated that "1521" would not solely center on the Battle of Mactan, describing the relationship between Diwata and Enrique as the "heart" of the plot. "We didn't want to merely make a movie about the battle and the conflict," he explained.
Lara Ho stated that the entire film would be shot in Palawan, which was chosen for its picturesque beaches and mountains.
Francis Lara Ho
The producer, himself a Palaweño, anticipated that the initiative will bring additional chances to the people of the province. "I was pleasantly delighted to discover, during the audition process, that so many Palaweños possess extraordinary skill. They simply require opportunities, which we are providing here "Lara Ho remarked.
"Sadly, despite being one of the richest provinces in terms of natural resources, Palawan has one of the worst poverty rates in comparison to other provinces. I thus hope that bringing projects here would change this "he stated. "1521" will be released on June 12, 2023, coinciding with the 125th Philippine Independence Day celebration.
