GCash

#GCash #USAID, and Silliman University to plant 500,000 mangrove trees in South Negros

Published

4 weeks ago

May 11, 2023

GCash, the country’s leading e-wallet, team up with the United States International Agency for Development (USAID) Fish Right Program and Silliman University to plant half a million mangrove trees in Negros Oriental, in line with its goal to fight climate change and support biodiversity.

This project will plant half a million trees across 78 hectares of mangrove and beach forests, covering 19 barangays in five towns namely Zamboanguita, Siaton, Sta. Catalina, Bayawan, and Basay. In five years time, this project expects to sequester 117,000 tons of carbon.

GCash, USAID, and Silliman University formally launched the partnership through a ceremonial signing and a mangrove planting activity on May 5 in Lutoban, Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental. Around 200 participants joined the launch, including the core representatives from GCash, USAID, and Silliman University. Local and provincial government unit representatives and various groups such as fisherfolk associations, women’s groups, Silliman University’s student organization (STEWaRDS), representatives from national government agencies like Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the non-profit organization Voice of the Free Foundation (VFF) were also present at the event.

This newly launched alliance will also support local communities, particularly people’s organizations and women’s groups, through the provision of skills training on conservation and management of selected mangrove forests and through cash for work assistance. This also leverages USAID’s decades-long experience in marine biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and fisheries management.

“We at GCash are committed to support the reforestation of South Negros though GForest, in partnership with Silliman University. We continuously work with various credible international and local partners who are following a science-based approach, ” said CJ Alegre, GCash Head of Sustainability. “Together with the people of Negros, and the milions of users of GCash, all of us can plant the seeds for a better tomorrow.”

Dr. Hilconida Calumpong of Silliman University reiterated the importance of mangrove ecosystems to climate resilience and food security. “Mangroves are important ecosystems that support climate change mitigation by storing large amounts of carbon, and climate change adaptation, by protecting coastlines from typhoons,” said Dr. Calumpong. “Healthy mangrove systems are also closely tied to livelihoods, serving as nurseries for fish stocks. Degradation of mangroves areas, therefore, has a negative impact on both the climate resilience and food security of coastal communities.”

“This alliance aims to restore the mangrove forests of the local conservation areas of our partner LGUs and to contribute to the protection of our communities,” said Mr. Nygiel Armada, USAID Fish Right Program Chief of Party. “As we hand over the initiatives that have been started under the Program to our partners, we are starting a new chapter in our journey of sustainability in South Negros. Planting half a million trees is a good way to start this new chapter. We are very grateful to have facilitated the establishment of this collaboration between one of our consortium partners, the Silliman University, and GCash,” he added.

GCash introduced GForest in 2019 to address climate change by enjoining Filipinos to contribute to reforestation efforts through their digital transactions. For every transaction done in the GCash app, users will earn green energy which they can save up, and eventually use to plant a digital tree. GCash and its partner communities will then plant all these as actual trees.

At present, GCash has 12.9 million green heroes who are contributing to fight climate change through this user-friendly, digital feature. To date, 2.2 million trees have been planted nationwide.

Silliman University, as a consortium partner of the USAID Fish Right Program, aims to support ecosystem-based adaptation. This collaboration recognizes the importance of mangrove ecosystems in climate change mitigation & adaptation and in supporting the livelihood of coastal communities as it serves as nursery grounds for many fish, crab, and shellfish species.

FAQ

Q: What is the partnership between GCash, USAID Fish Right Program, and Silliman University about?

A: GCash, the United States International Agency for Development (USAID) Fish Right Program, and Silliman University have teamed up to plant half a million mangrove trees in Negros Oriental. The partnership aims to fight climate change and support biodiversity by reforesting areas with mangrove and beach forests.

Q: Where will the tree planting project take place?

A: The tree planting project will cover 78 hectares of mangrove and beach forests in 19 barangays across five towns in Negros Oriental. The towns include Zamboanguita, Siaton, Sta. Catalina, Bayawan, and Basay.

Q: What are the expected environmental benefits of the project?

A: Over a span of five years, the project expects to sequester 117,000 tons of carbon. By planting half a million trees, the initiative aims to contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation. Mangroves also play a vital role in protecting coastlines from typhoons and serving as nurseries for fish stocks.

Q: Who participated in the partnership launch event?

A: The partnership launch event involved around 200 participants, including core representatives from GCash, USAID, and Silliman University. Local and provincial government unit representatives, fisherfolk associations, women’s groups, student organizations, and representatives from national government agencies like the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) were also present.

Q: How will the alliance support local communities?

A: The newly formed alliance will provide skills training on conservation and management of selected mangrove forests to local communities, particularly people’s organizations and women’s groups. Additionally, it will offer cash for work assistance. The partnership leverages USAID’s experience in marine biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and fisheries management.

Q: What is GCash’s role in the reforestation efforts?

A: GCash introduced GForest, a feature in their mobile app, to address climate change. Users earn green energy for each transaction they make in the GCash app. This green energy can be saved up and eventually used to plant a digital tree. GCash and its partner communities then plant real trees corresponding to the accumulated green energy. Currently, GCash has 12.9 million users participating in this reforestation initiative, with 2.2 million trees already planted nationwide.

Q: What is Silliman University’s involvement in the partnership?

A: Silliman University is a consortium partner of the USAID Fish Right Program and aims to support ecosystem-based adaptation. The university recognizes the significance of mangrove ecosystems in climate change mitigation and adaptation, as well as their role in supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities. Silliman University is actively engaged in collaborative research and community extension services.

GCash

GCash Europe Alipay+ partnership

Published

21 hours ago

June 5, 2023

Jervie David Montejar

GCash users can now opt for a hassle-free, cashless payment method on their next Euro trip as the Philippines’ leading mobile wallet is now accepted in Europe’s top travel destinations, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy.

This cross-border payment service is part of the e-wallet’s strengthened collaboration and partnership with Alipay+ to offer a seamless and secure payment experience, as well as real-time foreign exchange (forex) with no service fee, allowing customers to a hassle-free and rewarding travel experience abroad.

Among the key merchants and stores that can accept GCash via Alipay+ are Harrods, Liberty London, and Harvey Nichols in the UK; Printemps in France; Müller and dm-drogerie markt in Germany; as well as itTaxi, and IVS Group, the leader in the vending machines market, in Italy.

“In line with our fervent commitment to make our customers’ everyday lives better and more convenient, we want to make sure that they can maximize their GCash account not only locally but wherever they are across the world. We look forward to expanding to other markets abroad soon and to partner with even more merchants in 2023,” GCash president and CEO Martha Sazon said.

When paying for your purchases at these destinations, be sure to look for the Alipay+ logo at the checkout. Open your GCash app and select the QR or PayQR button at the bottom of the screen. Scan the merchant’s QR code, or tap “Pay Abroad with Alipay+” to have the merchant scan your generated QR. Then check the amount, and click Pay to see the receipt.

So no need to bring cash or exchange currency for shopping abroad. Just choose the GCash Scan-to-Pay option for your purchases for a smooth and seamless travel experience – all in just a few taps on your phone via the GCash app! For more information, visit https://help.gcash.com/ and click the “How to Pay QR Internationally” topic.

GCash is continuously expanding its international payment touchpoints in partnership with Alipay+. Aside from the European destinations, the Philippine e-wallet can be used to pay in select merchants across Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, and Qatar.

It’s also making its services available to more Filipinos worldwide as the GCash app can now be used with international numbers in the US, UK, Canada, Japan, Italy, and Australia.

GCash

GCash RAFI GForest Cebu

Published

4 days ago

June 2, 2023

Jervie David Montejar

Committed to support sustainable development and address climate change, the Philippines’ leading mobile wallet GCash, together with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), are continuing their initiatives to increase forest coverage and enhance existing mangrove areas in Cebu.

Through GCash’s GForest and RAFI’s One to Tree Program, a total of 1,075,000 mangroves and upland trees have been planted since 2021. For the remainder of 2023, 75,000 more mangroves will be planted, completing the target of 1,150,000 trees spread across three projects in the province.

The two GForests cover the Luyang Watershed in the northern town of Carmen. One project has 375 hectares of farmland in the barangays of Caurasan, Upper Natimao-an, Liboron, Ipil, Cantumog, and Lower Natimao-an. Meanwhile, the other consists of 355 hectares of farmland with planting sites in the barangays of Upper Natimao-an, Corte, Ipil, Caurasan, Hagnaya, Lanipga, and Cantumog.

Among the 600,000 native trees planted in the two GForests are Avocado, Bangkal, Cacao, Cashew, Coffee, Guyabano, Jackfruit, Mamalis, Mangosteen, Molave, Nangka, Narra and Rambutan with a high survivability rate between 92 to 94% as of March 2023.

The Luyang Watershed is a significant ecological area in Cebu as it supplies at least twenty-four thousand cubic meters of surface fresh water. The enhancement of tree cover in the two GForests will improve rainwater percolation.

As a result, this increases the water table under the horizon that supplies springs that support surface water along rivers. The neighboring urban cities of Cebu, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu will benefit from this in terms of water supply.

The third project is GForest Mangroves which aims to plant 550,000 seedlings in Daanbantayan, San Remigio, and Medellin. The three municipalities are facing the Tañon Strait, the biggest marine protected area in the Philippines under the National Integrated Protected Areas System.

As of May 2023, about 47.5 hectares have been covered for enrichment planting with 475,000 seedlings of the Bakhaw Lalaki (Rhizopora apiculata), Bakhaw Babae (Rhizopora mucronata), Bakhaw Bato (Rhizopora stylosa), Bungalon (Aviccenia alba), Miapi (Aviccenia marina), Aviccenia officinallis, Aviccenia rumphiana, Pagatpat (Sonneratia alba), Pedada (Sonneratia caseolaris), and Sonneratia ovata species.

Aside from mitigating the risks of natural disasters and augmenting water supply, the partnership has also helped in the livelihood of local communities. GCash and RAFI have engaged 200 landowners, 687 individuals, and ten people’s organizations in the site preparation, tree-planting, and maintenance activities of the projects.

“GCash is steadfast in playing an active role in minimizing the effects of climate change. Through GForest, we encourage Filipinos to take part in our eco-friendly initiatives and be Green Heroes. With partner organizations like RAFI, we continue to plant the seeds for a better tomorrow,” said CJ Alegre, GCash Head for Sustainability.

“This partnership with GCash allows us to reach more people and enable them to take part in caring for our environment even in simple ways. Through this partnershxqip people can build GForests one tree at a time, and also help in community-building and income augmentation of locals. This is a win for the environment and a win for Cebuanos,” said Amaya Aboitiz-Fansler, RAFI President and Chief Executive Officer.

GForest is an in-app feature rolled out in 2019 in line with GCash’s sustainability agenda. Users earn green energy for cashless transactions done in the app such as paying bills, buying load, and sending money. Green energy is collected and used to plant virtual trees.

GCash partners with international and local organizations in planting actual trees around the country. At present, they have planted 2.2 million trees and aim to plant a total of 5 million trees by 2025.

For more information about GForest and other sustainability initiatives, visit www.gcash.com.ph

GCash

AI Opportunities for Women

Published

2 weeks ago

May 26, 2023

Jervie David Montejar

The field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents many opportunities for women. This was the key message emphasized by Connected Women, partner of leading mobile wallet GCash during its GTalks event, held in celebration of UN Women in Tech day on April 25, 2023.

Gina Romero, co-founder of Connected Women, explained how the organization is aligned with GCash’s vision of financial inclusion through the AI training programs it provides for women, helping them qualify for remote employment, even without formal education.

Romero believes that women, regardless of background or financial standing, can work with AI. The rapid growth of emerging technologies and industries such as AI, coupled with the wider adoption of remote work, are creating opportunities for women to upskill and earn a livelihood from their homes while taking care of their families.

“I’ve had a diverse career, from pig farming to air cabin crew, before entering the tech industry. Anyone can learn the skills needed for the future of work. We need women in tech at all levels to create an equitable future. Connected Women ensures accessibility for women, including underserved groups, to participate in the digital economy,” said Romero.

“We are thrilled to be working with GCash, a company that truly exemplifies diversity in tech and leadership roles. GCash’s commitment to fostering inclusivity aligns perfectly with our vision at Connected Women, and we are excited to collaborate with them to create more opportunities for women in the digital space,” added Romero.
“GCash stands for inclusion at large. With our partners, we aim to give women more opportunities towards financial freedom. More than just providing them with accessible financial services, GCash is also pushing for more opportunities for women in line with our goal to normalize women leaders in tech,” said GCash president and CEO Martha Sazon.

In collaboration with the country’s leading mobile wallet, Connected Women enables its AI remote workers to easily receive their payments through GCash. The Connected Women community platform is now accessible through the Earn Money feature in the GCash app.

Since the partnership’s inception in March 2023, the feature has already garnered over 11,000 sign-ups. Based on Connected Women’s latest statistics report, 91% of respondents were not male (female, non-binary, prefer not to say), majority of whom are looking for remote work.

Romero was one of the speakers in the event entitled GTalks: Empowering Women in Tech. Alongside her were co-speakers UN Women country coordinator Lenlen Mesina, For the Women Foundation’s co-founder Michelle Alarcon, GCash president and CEO, Martha Sazon, GCash chief technology & operations officer, Pebbles Sy, and GCash chief people officer Robert Gonzales. This event was hosted by renowned broadcast journalist Karen Davila.

To stay updated on GCash’s latest updates, visit https://facebook.com/gcashofficial

FAQ

1. What is the partnership between GCash and Connected Women?

The partnership between GCash and Connected Women aims to provide opportunities for women in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Connected Women, a training organization, aligns with GCash’s vision of financial inclusion by offering AI training programs that enable women to qualify for remote employment, even without formal education.

2. How can women benefit from the AI training programs provided by Connected Women?

The AI training programs provided by Connected Women empower women to upskill and earn a livelihood from their homes while taking care of their families. The rapid growth of emerging technologies like AI, along with the wider adoption of remote work, creates opportunities for women to enter the tech industry and participate in the digital economy.

3. Who can participate in the AI training programs offered by Connected Women?

Connected Women believes that women from all backgrounds and financial standings can work with AI. The organization ensures accessibility for women, including underserved groups, to participate in the digital economy and acquire the skills needed for the future of work.

4. What is the goal of GCash in partnering with Connected Women?

GCash, a leading mobile wallet, aims to foster inclusivity and provide more opportunities for women in the tech industry. The partnership with Connected Women aligns with GCash’s commitment to diversity in tech and leadership roles. GCash strives to normalize women leaders in tech and empower women towards financial freedom.

5. How does the collaboration between GCash and Connected Women benefit AI remote workers?

Connected Women enables its AI remote workers to easily receive their payments through GCash, the country’s leading mobile wallet. This collaboration ensures seamless financial transactions and provides a convenient way for AI remote workers to access their earnings.

6. How can women access the Connected Women community platform through GCash?

The Connected Women community platform is now accessible through the Earn Money feature in the GCash app. Women who are part of the Connected Women network can utilize this feature to engage with the community, access resources, and explore remote work opportunities.

7. What are the statistics regarding sign-ups and interest in remote work from women since the partnership began?

Since the partnership’s inception in March 2023, over 11,000 sign-ups have been recorded through the Earn Money feature in the GCash app. Connected Women’s latest statistics report shows that the majority of respondents (91%) looking for remote work were not male (female, non-binary, prefer not to say).

8. Who were the speakers at the GTalks: Empowering Women in Tech event hosted by GCash?

The speakers at the GTalks event included Gina Romero, co-founder of Connected Women; Lenlen Mesina, UN Women country coordinator; Michelle Alarcon, co-founder of For the Women Foundation; Martha Sazon, GCash president and CEO; Pebbles Sy, GCash chief technology & operations officer; Robert Gonzales, GCash chief people officer. The event was hosted by renowned broadcast journalist Karen Davila.