Need Instant Cash? Reasons Why Pawning Jewelry Is Your Best Option

Need Instant Cash? Reasons Why Pawning Jewelry Is Your Best Option

Sunday, March 10, 2024

Life is unpredictable. Financial emergencies can arise unexpectedly leaving individuals in need of quick and reliable solutions. One often-overlooked way to secure immediate cash is through pawning jewelry. This age-old practice provides a range of advantages, offering a convenient and accessible means for individuals to overcome short-term financial challenges. If you need an instant cash but is still not convinced about pawning your jewelry, here are the reasons why this option stands out as the best way to access cash swiftly.

Instant Liquidity

One of the primary benefits of pawning jewelry is the instant liquidity it provides. Compared to traditional loans that involve lengthy approval processes, ML Quick Cash Loan offers a quick and hassle-free way to convert your valuable assets into cash. This is advantageous during times of urgent financial need when time is of the essence.

No Credit Checks

Unlike conventional lending institutions, pawnshops do not perform credit checks. This makes pawning jewelry an ideal option for individuals who have difficulty obtaining a loan from traditional sources. The value of the pawned item serves as collateral, eliminating the need for a credit history review.

Asset-Based Loans

When pawning jewelry, the loan amount is determined by the appraised value of the item. This allows individuals to receive a loan amount that reflects the true worth of their jewelry. Moreover, it provides a flexible and tailored solution, ensuring that borrowers can access an amount that suits their specific financial needs.

M Lhuillier has the highest appraisal and charges the lowest interest rate in the industry. This is an assurance that you get the most value out of your pawned jewelry. 

No Strings Attached

When pawning jewelry, borrowers are not obligated to repay the loan within a rigid timeframe. M Lhuillier provides a grace period during which individuals can repay the loan and reclaim their valuable items. This flexibility ensures that borrowers can comfortably manage the repayment process without the stress of stringent deadlines. You also have the option to renew your loan when it falls due at any branch of your choice!

Preserve Ownership

One significant advantage of pawning jewelry is that the ownership of the item is retained throughout the loan period. Unlike selling, where ownership is permanently transferred, pawning allows individuals to reclaim their cherished possessions once the loan is repaid. This makes it a viable option for those who wish to retain both their financial stability and sentimental valuables.

Pawning jewelry emerges as a practical and efficient method for obtaining immediate cash when faced with unexpected financial challenges. The process is quick, accessible, and doesn't involve the complexities associated with traditional loans. With instant liquidity, no credit checks, and the flexibility to reclaim valuable items, pawning jewelry proves to be a reliable and convenient solution for those in need of quick financial assistance. With more than 3,000 M Lhuillier branches nationwide, the ML Quick Cash Loan is one of the most convenient and widely available way to have instant cash.

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Everything you need to know about the new insurance product bespoke for music lovers

Everything you need to know about the new insurance product bespoke for music lovers

Friday, March 8, 2024

In celebration of its 10th year anniversary as the insurer of the next generation, FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines) continues its commitment to create innovative products by launching a new protection plan meant to celebrate Filipinos’ passion for music. 

Filipinos are iconic for their passion for music—from celebrating life through singing glass-breaking tunes in the karaoke to selling out local concerts of their favorite artists. In fact, a recent study reported that 38% of Filipinos have attended concerts locally or overseas and is expected to continue this 2024. The music streaming market in the Philippines is also anticipated to achieve a revenue of US$54.32 million this year.

Now available at the FWD Online Shop, The One for Music Lovers is an accessible insurance plan that starts at PhP 330. Itoffers customizable coverage for loss of hearing, loss of speech, paralysis, motor neuron disease, stroke, other major critical illnesses, and accidental death for 18 to 70-year-old Filipinos or legal residents of at least six months, and who are in good health.

Policy holders also get a voucher from the Philippines’ leading tech curator, Digital Walker, so they can celebrate their passion for music now, and thank themselves later.

To launch the new plan, FWD became the official insurer of one of the biggest and most anticipated music festivals this year, the Aurora Music Festival, which is happening on April 6 to 7 at Clark Global City, Pampanga. Through the partnership, The One for Music Lovers policy holders have an exclusive opportunity to upgrade their event tickets for free.

For a limited time only, this means their Silver (Php500), Gold (Php1,000) or SVIP (Php3,000) ticket can be amped up into an Orange Ticket for each tier that also comes with its own perks like:

Access to the Orange Lane. Skip the long lines with a special lane exclusively just for limited-offer Orange Ticket holders.

Early entry. Get on the concert grounds 30 minutes earlier than the rest.

Free FWD merch. Fan out with essential festival merch items from FWD.

More surprise benefits on ground to complete your ultimate Aurora Music Festival experience.

FWD Chief Marketing and Digital Business Officer, Roche Vandenberghe emphasizes there is a protection gap among those in the creative industry, including the artists, composers, and those working behind the scenes.

“Aligned with the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, we want to do our part in nation-building by expanding our Celebrate living series with The One for Music Lovers insurance plan,” said Vandenberghe.

“With our new plan, we’re providing accessible and affordable protection for every Filipino who is a music lover, from the listeners to those who make music their livelihood, supporting the country’s creative economy.” 

The FWD Celebrate living series includes the insurance brand’s innovative protection policies including The One for gamers that is designed specifically to complement the lifestyle of the Filipino gaming community.

Ready to thank yourself later and to enjoy 1Oxperiences at the Aurora Music Festival? Get The One for Music Lovers by visiting shop.fwd.com.ph or contact an FWD financial advisor now.

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Annual Visa Consumer Payment Attitudes study reveals significant decline in cash payments amid rise in cashless transactions

Annual Visa Consumer Payment Attitudes study reveals significant decline in cash payments amid rise in cashless transactions

Philippine market sees steady increase in contactless payment acceptance and use

The cashless wave continues to gain momentum in the Philippines as consumer habits shift away from cash dependence, and more towards usage of cashless payments. This is according to Visa’s latest Consumer Payment Attitudes Study, which indicates a notable decline in cash usage to 87%, from 96% in 2022.

The Visa Consumer Payment Attitudes Study is an annual study covering payment behaviors of Filipino consumers when it comes to digital payments, digital banking and the future of commerce. The latest edition is in its 10th year running and was based on interviews conducted in October to November 2023 with 1,000 Filipino consumers aged 18-65 years old, spread across different cities/regions and income brackets, with the minimum monthly income being PHP 12,000.

Driven by the younger (Gen Z and Gen Y) and more affluent segments, Filipino consumers are increasingly embracing cashless transactions, going without cash for an average of 10 days. Specifically, card payments usage was at 70% (including swipe / insert, online, and tap-to-pay / contactless payments) in 2023, while mobile wallets usage stood at 87%, on par with cash transactions.

43% of Filipinos who were surveyed now carry less cash in their wallets mainly due to the growing consumer habit of using cashless and contactless payments, alongside the increasing acceptance of cashless payments among stores & merchants.

Supermarkets (88%), food and dining (86%), and bill payments (82%) are the leading merchant categories that consumers observed to have opened up acceptance of cashless payment methods compared to a year ago.

“Filipinos are becoming more comfortable with cashless payments, and we are confident that they will continue to embrace new innovations in the digital payment landscape,” says Jeff Navarro, Visa Country Manager for the Philippines. “With growth attributed to increasing payment acceptance across merchants for cards, both dip and contactless, as well as mobile wallets, Visa remains committed to ensuring a seamless transition to a cash-lite society by providing secure and convenient digital payment solutions.”

Growing acceptance and usage of contactless payments among Filipinos

Contactless payments – including contactless cards, QR codes, and mobile wallets – are driving the growth of cashless payments in the country.

According to the study, about 9 in 10 Filipinos are aware of and interested in using contactless cards and QR codes when paying for their transactions. Specifically, 32% of Filipinos used contactless cards for their payments in 2023, mainly driven by the affluent population. Meanwhile, 55% used QR codes, with at least 50% adoption across age groups except for consumers aged 59-65 (31%).

Among mobile wallet users, paying through QR codes is the most preferred method for 38% of consumers, making mobile wallets the most preferred funding source for QR payments. Scanning the QR code in-store is the preferred mode of payment by 78% of its users.

When travelling overseas, Filipinos prefer to use cards for cross-border payments, where 55% of consumers prefer debit and credit cards for the convenience, time savings, and hassle-free user experience. An emerging trend is the use of QR codes for cross-border payments, with 37% of Filipinos currently aware of and have tried using it. Meanwhile, 69% of those who have not tried it have expressed interest in using it in the future.

Road to a cashless society

With the shift to digital forms of payment, 52% of consumers are confident to go without the use of cash, and rely on cashless payment methods entirely for at least a week. Moreover, 1 in 3 consumers (37%) believe that the Philippines will be a cashless society by the year 2030 – if not sooner.

“Our study shows that the cashless wave is maintaining its momentum in the Philippines. We are moving closer to achieving a cashless Philippine society, but we still have some way to go,” said Navarro. “Visa plays a strategic role in the payment ecosystem to drive financial and digital inclusion by partnering with the government, banks and financial institutions, and fintechs to support the development of digital payments in the Philippines. We are supporting the digitization journey in the Philippines – such as Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap – by providing consumers and businesses with convenient, seamless and safe digital payment solutions.”

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Igloo and Lazada unveil protection plans for electronics, phone screens, and beauty products in the Philippines - a first for the e-commerce platform in the country

Igloo and Lazada unveil protection plans for electronics, phone screens, and beauty products in the Philippines - a first for the e-commerce platform in the country

Monday, March 4, 2024

Regional insurtech Igloo has partnered with leading e-commerce platform Lazada to offer Filipino shoppers protection plans for their online purchases. This is part of Igloo’s continued mission to improve the online shopping experience through purchase protection products.

“E-commerce is a fast-growing industry in the Philippines and it’s safe to say that more and more Filipinos have embraced online shopping as a fast and convenient way to access a diverse range of products and services. There are currently 38.9 million e-commerce shoppers in the Philippines, a number that is expected to reach 55.8 million by 2025. Of these, approximately 25% of Filipinos who shop online do so at least once a month,” said Roberto Vea, Commercial Lead at Igloo Philippines. "As the number of Filipinos engaging in online purchases continues to rise, it becomes increasingly imperative to provide them with protection throughout their entire shopping journey, extending support even after they've received their products."

In collaboration with Igloo, Lazada has introduced three comprehensive online shopping protection products tailored for its electronics and beauty products. These protection plans are seamlessly integrated into the checkout process. Before finalizing their payment, customers will be presented with a tailored insurance plan specific to the item they are purchasing. This includes a transparent display of the associated premium, ensuring a clear understanding of the additional cost that will be integrated into their total transaction.

The Electronic Protection and Gadget Protection products ensures extensive protection for all kinds of electronic products and gadgets. from accidental and liquid damage, as well as loss due to theft or robbery, along with the added benefit of professional repair and service at authorized centers. Both products are underwritten by Etiqa Insurance. Specifically for non-electronic products, Igloo and Etiqa present Merchandise Protection which protects orders from accidental damage and theft.

Additionally, Product Liability Protection addresses adverse reactions to beauty products (cosmetics, lotions, bath essentials) purchased on Lazada. Underwritten by Liberty Insurance, coverage encompasses protection against chemical burns and severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) resulting from product use. Consumers availing of this product gain access to teleconsultations, medical reimbursements, and emergency hospitalization.

“At Igloo, our core mission revolves around facilitating easy, affordable, and convenient access to insurance products for consumers. We believe that insurance should be straightforward and accessible to everyone. In line with this commitment, our collaboration with Lazada has been carefully designed to ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience for individuals seeking protection for their online purchases,” Vea added.

Igloo’s partnership with Lazada is part of its goal to increase insurance penetration by offering microinsurance products designed to cater to the increasingly digital lifestyle of consumers in the Philippines and across the region.

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SEA’s Outbound and Inbound Tourism Spending Rebounds on Ant Group's Cross-Border Merchant Networks During Chinese New Year Break

SEA’s Outbound and Inbound Tourism Spending Rebounds on Ant Group's Cross-Border Merchant Networks During Chinese New Year Break

Data from Ant Group shows a robust rebound of consumer spending during the first back-to-normal Chinese New Year (CNY) travel season after the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in cross-border tourism. 

Robust recovery, diversified destinations, and scenarios for Chinese tourists in the region are made possible by Alipay+

Through the Alipay+ cross-border mobile payment technology solutions, travelers may pay for goods, food and beverage, recreation, and entertainment at over 8 million merchants in over 70 countries and regions, all from their familiar home app, without needing to change money or carry cash. On top of this, they can enjoy in-app instant tax refunds, as well as transparent and competitive exchange rates. Within the Philippines, Alipay+ is currently expanding its merchant coverage in Manila and Cebu, the two most popular destinations in the country. 

Meanwhile, a global campaign has been in full swing on the Alipay+ merchant network since December 2023 to attract outbound travel for Chinese tourists. In the CNY holiday week between February 9th and 12th, the number of transactions made by Alipay users overseas surpassed that of 2019 by 7 percent, while consumer spending recovered to 82 percent of the 2019 level, or 2.4 times that of 2023. Compared to last year, spending by Chinese tourists in the Philippines via their home e-wallet, Alipay, particularly increased by 50 percent this year, with shopping as the most popular category. Other than those from the Chinese mainland, tourists from South Korea, Hong Kong, and Malaysia are the top three biggest spenders in the Philippines.

Closer socio-economic connections between Hong Kong SAR, Macao SAR, and the Chinese Mainland, the new visa-free policies from major Southeast Asia destinations, and recovering international flight capacities are key enablers of the cross-border travel boom. 

Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Macao SAR, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, France, Australia, and Canada are the top destinations for Chinese travelers by their Alipay spending. Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore combined saw a 7.5 percent increase over 2019, and a 580 percent leap over 2023, with Thailand leading in total volume and Malaysia showing the largest increase. 

Besides a larger physical parameter, the Chinese globetrotter is also expanding her interest from traditional activities like shopping and tourism spotshopping to more immersive and unique local experiences. Globally in the CNY week, Chinese tourists spent 70 percent more on food and beverage than in 2019, venturing from downtown hotspots to out-of-the-way local treasures. 

In-town transportation volume grew fast thanks to the passion for "travel local.". Alipay users in multiple destinations now may choose from rail, taxi, rideshare, car rental, bus, subway, and even scooter-share when abroad, all from the familiar app on their own phone. The cost per ride on any vehicle for Alipay travelers dropped by 60 percent compared to 2019. A lighter carbon footprint also means more local SMEs on the public transport network gain a share of international tourist revenue. 

Promoting cross-border travel among Alipay+ partner e-wallets and bank apps

The Chinese New Year is widely celebrated across Asian communities. With new partnerships in 2023 and increased travel, total cross-border spending on the region's leading e-wallets powered by Alipay+ increased by 252 percent year-on-year. Daily average transactions increased by 304 percent. Japan, South Korea, Macao SAR, Thailand, and Singapore are the top 5 most popular destinations for Alipay+ consumers besides the Chinese mainland, where the Philippines ranked as the 8th most popular destination globally.

"With its use spreading across age and income groups, increasingly mobile payment is becoming an important promoter of local and cross-border commerce in Asia and beyond, " said Douglas Feagin, Senior Vice President of Ant Group and Head of Alipay+. "We expect to grow our partnerships with payment industry leaders, national tourist agencies, and merchants in 2024 to generate more growth. "

Enabled via Alipay+, Alipay (Chinese mainland) has been accepted by local merchants in the Philippines since 2017, while more e-wallets launched locally last year, such as AlipayHK (Hong Kong SAR), Kakao Pay (South Korea), and Touch ‘n Go eWallet (Malaysia). Overall, these e-wallets provide added convenience to tourists, while bringing more growth opportunities to local merchants. 

The addition of these new e-wallets ahead of the peak travel season, with a predicted 8.21 million inbound tourists for the Philippines this year, provides a convenient payment experience for tourists while bringing more growth opportunities to local merchants.

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FWD’s new campaign inspires Filipinos to prioritize insurance today to build their best future tomorrow

FWD’s new campaign inspires Filipinos to prioritize insurance today to build their best future tomorrow

Sunday, March 3, 2024

In celebration of its 1Oth anniversary, FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines) launched a new campaign that kindles the need for Filipinos to insure themselves today.

The campaign video portrays different Filipinos of the next generation and their aspirations. Each character meets the best future version of themselves, who thanks the present self for taking the steps towards achieving their dreams.

At 1O years young, FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines) has been the insurer of the next generation by changing the way people feel about insurance through innovative, inclusive, and people-centric plans fit for Filipinos’ evolving needs.

“Our main objective for this campaign is to address the priority gap most Filipinos are exhibiting, meaning they know about insurance, but they do not prioritize getting one,” said Roche Vandenberghe, FWD Philippines Chief Marketing and Digital Business Officer. “With more Filipinos are doing all they can to secure the best future for themselves and their loved ones, we want to support them by making sure their hard work will always be protected.”

Ms. Vandenberghe refers to a 2023 consumer study finding 81% of Filipinos allocating more of their budget for essentials due to inflation. Based on the same study, 78% of Filipinos are also reportedly saving money for the future.[CTCMGO1] [SR2]

While these numbers suggest Filipinos have become more practical with their finances, many still show a priority gap in other essentials such as income protection. This contributes to the Philippines having one of the lowest insurance penetration rates in the region at less than 2%.

Unaddressed, the priority gap leads to protection gap, where they are more susceptible to economic losses due to their vulnerability to critical illness, accidents, and loss of life.

As out-of-pocket expenses for essentials continuously rely on their income, more Filipinos can benefit by prioritizing financial protection as a necessity in building their best future.

Ms. Vandenberghe emphasizes that FWD’s approach is anchored on protecting people’s desired way of life. “We want to do our part in ensuring that Filipinos can celebrate living and build their best future. What you do today makes a difference tomorrow, and by choosing FWD, you can thank yourself later—we got your back.”

Ready to thank yourself later? Learn more about FWD’s campaign and innovative income protection products — visit fwd.com.ph. 

[CTCMGO1]Should we begin the media release with the introduction of FWD's campaign and initiatives? There is no core message in this draft but only mention the statistics.

[SR2]Applied.

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Skyro reports strong 2023 performance, expected to triple in 2024 as it expands digital financial offerings for Filipinos

Skyro reports strong 2023 performance, expected to triple in 2024 as it expands digital financial offerings for Filipinos

Skyro, a fast-growing fintech provider in the Philippines, continues its commitment to transform the local financial landscape by delivering accessible and affordable digital financial solutions to Filipinos.

Skyro is committed to empowering more Filipinos by offering a range of digital consumer finance products such as product loans, cash loans, and other lending products designed to meet the diverse financial needs of Filipino consumers. These solutions offer a streamlined process, competitive rates, and diverse payment options, providing customers with flexibility and convenience.

Achievements and Business Performance in 2023

In just under two years since its inception as a fintech startup, Skyro has achieved significant milestones and business performance in the fintech industry by the end of last year.

Skyro has recorded significant growth in both applications and usage as it gains traction among new markets and diverse user groups. Notably, in 2023 alone, Skyro achieved an average Compound Monthly Growth Rate of 50%, a testament to the rapid trust and adoption placed in the company’s innovative financial solutions.

Skyro's mobile app had an increase in its number of new and active users by 82.5%, leading to a proportional rise in total app downloads and usage. The brand has grown its network with over 500 partner merchants and a presence in over 2500 stores nationwide. It has also expanded its workforce from less than a hundred to more than a thousand employees.

Its product loan solution has shown exceptional growth in 2023, generating substantial results more than its initial value. Similarly, the cross-sell products have delivered remarkable outcomes in usage.

Outstanding Performance Under Expert Leadership

Skyro’s co-founders and co-CEOs Nasim Aliev and Arsen Liametov have been instrumental in the company's growth and success. 

With a strong experience in financial technology and business development, Aliev oversees key areas such as sales, partnerships, marketing, and customer acquisition, garnering trust from both customers and partners. On the other hand, Liametov is focused on optimizing Skyro's offerings, utilizing his extensive understanding of fintech products and operations. His main areas of expertise include ensuring smooth integration and efficient functioning of Skyro's digital services, all with the goal of meeting market demands while delivering maximum value to Filipino customers.

"At Skyro, our mission is to bring joy into every interaction our customers have with our financial products," shared Nasim Aliev. "We prioritize accessibility, simplicity, and flexibility, supported by an exceptional customer experience. By leveraging a compelling model, we've managed to reduce risk two-fold while achieving profitability, showcasing our strategic foresight and commitment to sustainable growth. We want to create a future where every Filipino has access to the right financial tools and knowledge for achieving success.”

Liametov added, "Our dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction remains unwavering. With a focus on continuous improvement and expansion, we're poised to reach new heights in 2024 and beyond. Skyro is committed to empowering individuals with the financial solutions that would cater to their ever-evolving needs and lifestyles."

Looking ahead to the rest of 2024, Liametov said, "As we anticipate the year ahead, we're filled with optimism, expecting even greater growth and impact for Skyro."

Skyro aims to continue its impressive trajectory into 2024, with expectations of tripling its growth and onboarding half a million customers by the year's end. This ambitious goal underscores Skyro's commitment to expanding its reach and impact in the digital financial landscape of the Philippines, further solidifying its position as a key player in the industry's evolution.

Skyro is a fintech company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). To learn more about digital financial products from Skyro, visit its official website www.skyro.ph. Follow its official Facebook and Instagram accounts to know more about its latest promos and offerings.

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Bayad clinches Excellence Awards during the Pag-IBIG Fund Chairman's Report

Bayad clinches Excellence Awards during the Pag-IBIG Fund Chairman's Report

Friday, March 1, 2024

Bayad clinches Excellence Awards during the Pag-IBIG Fund Chairman's Report, held on February 27, 2024 at PICC Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City. 

The awarding ceremony highlights Bayad as Pag-IBIG Fund’s Non-bank Top Collecting Partner, having served the highest contribution on Pag-IBIG Fund’s Employer Electronic Submission of Remittance Schedule (ESRS) for the year 2023.

Now on its 6th consecutive year, Bayad has once again proven its commitment to excellence in enabling institutions to conveniently help its employees settle their Pag-IBIG Fund home loan contributions through Bayad’s multi-channel payment platform.

Today, both individual and group contributions can be settled through a variety of Bayad’s payment touchpoints covering its Bayad Centers, its network of partner establishments such as leading supermarkets, department stores, convenient stores, pawnshops, courier services, banks, and other financial institutions. Adding to these are Bayad’s mobile application - Bayad App and its web application – Bayad Online, catering to a more tech-savvy market.

Bayad President and CEO, Lawrence Y. Ferrer underscored “Our drive for excellence is deeply rooted in our purpose of helping Filipinos elevate their quality of life. We are committed to provide solutions to both individuals and businesses that effectively help make payments more convenient and seamless.” We are one with Pag-IBIG in helping our kababayans to become financially empowered and fulfill their dream of owning a home.”

For government and financial institutions that are interested to be part of Bayad’s extensive biller network, you may send an email to partnerships@bayad.com. Bayad enables partners to attain nationwide presence and provides end-to-end support services for efficient payment and collection processing.

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GS1 Philippines launches “GS1 Activate” to boost digital transformation in the retail sector with robust barcode system

GS1 Philippines launches “GS1 Activate” to boost digital transformation in the retail sector with robust barcode system

Aims to introduce to over 30,000 retailers nationwide by the end of 2024

GS1 Philippines, the leading organization on local barcode standards, officially launched GS1 Activate, a web-based service aimed at simplifying barcode generation and symbol creation for businesses, revolutionizing the retail supply chain through digitalization.

Launched during GS1 Philippines’ Annual Conference and General Membership Meeting on January 30, 2024, GS1 Activate streamlines the processing of generating barcode numbers and symbols for businesses, making product data and identification digitized and further improving the efficiency and visibility of supply and demand chains globally and across sectors.

By adhering to GS1 standards and services, GS1 Activate enables businesses to achieve accurate product identification with global trade item numbers (GTINs) and seamless data sharing, enhancing customer service and operational efficiency. With GS1 Activate, businesses can easily obtain barcode numbers for their products, allowing for their global distribution. Additionally, the service provides expert guidance on printing and placing barcode symbols to ensure optimal scanning performance. By leveraging GS1 Activate to share product data, companies can expand their reach to retailers and marketplaces worldwide, enhancing the visibility and accessibility of their products on a global scale.

GS1 Philippines targets to introduce GS1 Activate to over 30,000 retailers nationwide by the end of 2024. They are currently serving over 5,000 retailers. 

“In an economy where the Philippines’ e-commerce market is estimated to reach $24 billion (approx. Php 1.3 trillion) through 2025, GS1 Activate is a game-changer. This new service revolutionizes business barcode generation, reducing the time required compared to traditional product identification methods and eliminating common errors, saving costs on label reprinting and minimizing the need for extensive personnel training. By dramatically simplifying the process, GS1 Activate also enhances efficient data sharing, crucial for strengthening both local and global trade. This launch is a testament to our dedication to advancing digital integration within the Philippines' supply chain ecosystem, reinforcing our role in the global economy,” GS1 Philippines, and Philippine Retailers Association President Bobby Claudio said.

Aligning with the annual gathering’s theme, “Unified Unlocked: Activating Integrated Digitalization,” GS1 Philippines’ conference marked the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the barcode system and highlighted GS1’s focus on shifting to the 2D migration of barcodes to QR codes while calling for global retail Point of Sale (POS) scanners to be capable of processing 2D barcodes by 2027. 

In his remark, GS1 Philippines Chairman Atty. Pablo Gancayo shared, "We are now focused on evolving the barcode into the next level we call the 2D migration, which is expected to revolutionize further commerce. GS1 will guide the industry towards 2D migration, which it hopes to achieve and implement comprehensively by the year 2027."

The annual gathering hosted insightful discussions, networking, and collaboration opportunities among key government figures, industry players, and GS1 members. Among those present was Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Mary Jean T. Pacheco, who emphasized GS1 standards' pivotal role in enhancing supply chain efficiency and visibility for Philippine industries competing globally. During her talk, she discussed the government agency’s three-year food logistics action agenda aimed to revolutionize the food distribution system by addressing critical supply chain gaps and integrating ICT to enhance logistics performance. Undersecretary Pacheco expressed eagerness for collaborations with GS1 Philippines to achieve these goals.

Other government leaders and industry experts also shared their perspectives on the impact of global standards in the digital age, including Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Ivan John Enrile Uy; De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of Environment and Design faculty member and packaging designer and consultant Prof. Ana Maria Veronica Solano; and CLASSchool Founder and Nutraways Manufacturing Corporation General Manager Love Emmanuel Agudo.

Several executives from both GS1 Philippines and the GS1 Global Office graced the event, namely: GS1 Global Office President and CEO Renaud De Barbuat; GS1 Philippines Trustee and Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT) President Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr.; and GS1 Global Office GS1 Registry Platform Global Deployment Lead Joe Horwood.

Among the prominent industry groups present at the conference were PHILEXPORT, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), Philippine Food Processors and Exporters Organization (PHILFOODEX), Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers, Inc. (PCFMI), Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP), Philippine Consumer Centric Traders Association (PCCTA), Packaging Institute of the Philippines (PIP), Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP), Soap and Detergent Association of the Philippines (SDAP), and the Beverage Industry Association of the Philippines.

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Globe Business shines spotlight on outstanding ‘Pinaypreneurs’

Globe Business shines spotlight on outstanding ‘Pinaypreneurs’

A year after receiving the Innovator Award from Globe Business at Cosmopolitan PH's Women of Influence 2023, dynamic Pinay entrepreneur Hiyasmin Neri-Soriano continues to stand out as a model of innovation and leadership, embodying the principles that earned her the prestigious recognition.

Over the past 12 months, Hiyasmin has showcased a blend of creativity and a profound grasp of technology as co-founder and CEO of Shoppertainment Live. This led to her recent appointment to the Board of Directors of The Philippine Marketing Association, where she focuses on public relations and communications, further highlighting her influence in the field.

Shoppertainment Live launched groundbreaking campaigns and engaged prominent entertainment and business personalities as anchors for its digital social commerce program. 

“The past year has been incredibly dynamic for me and Shoppertainment Live. We've initiated several distinctive live shopping campaigns across social media and marketplaces, with each session lasting from 3 to 4 hours which completes a full 24-hour stretch. We have also been exploring AI when it comes to content creation for video marketing,” Hiyasmin shared. 

A key aspect of Shoppertainment Live’s success story is its partnership with Globe Business. Serving as its internet partner, Globe Business has played a crucial role in enabling the company to do extensive and simultaneous livestream events for over 250 brands.

“Globe Business, as our reliable connectivity partner, has enabled us to conduct extensive and simultaneous livestream events for more than 250 brands. Leveraging this partnership, we have also effectively powered live commerce initiatives for Globe and have consistently achieved significant monthly sales volumes of sim cards through our live selling strategies,” said Hiyasmin.

KD Dizon, Vice President and Head of Globe Business, encapsulates the essence of this partnership, stating, "We stand united with every woman entrepreneur in overcoming challenges and unlocking their potential by providing innovative solutions, and access to resources necessary for their enduring success."

In the spirit of International Women's Month, Globe Business is set to once again honor two exceptional women business leaders and owners who have significantly contributed to the digital transformation of their enterprises, mirroring the impactful journey of Hiyasmin. The announcement of the winners will take place at the Cosmopolitan PH's Women of Influence Awards 2024.

As the event draws near, the story of Hiyasmin shines as a source of inspiration. Her achievements over the past year not only spotlight her innovative spirit but also stress the vital role of digital technology in propelling businesses forward.

Discover how Globe Business champions the digital transformation and empowerment of women entrepreneurs by visiting https://www.globe.com.ph/business.

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