CCIP welcomes 2025 with new board of trustees

Tuesday, January 14, 2025


The Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines, Inc. (CCIP) recently held its fourth General Membership Meeting (GMM), dubbed “Cocktail Night” at the Revel at the Palace in Taguig City.

Leading the event were members of CCIP’s Board of Trustees including the current board headed by president Christine Reyes of Amway Philippines who shared her annual report and emphasized CCIP’s mission to accelerate, elevate, and champion the cosmetics industry in the Philippines. She also expressed excitement about continuing to grow the Chamber's legacy with the unwavering support of its member companies.

“In response to the dynamic and ever-changing business and regulatory landscape, CCIP is dedicated to advancing the cosmetics industry by fostering adaptability and delivering swift, strategic solutions to market shifts. By nurturing creativity, we aim to drive sustainable growth and meaningful change, reinforcing our leadership in the industry. Building on the momentum of our 50th anniversary, our next step is clear, to take CCIP to the next level as we break new ground and lead the cosmetics industry to unparalleled excellence in 2025 and beyond"

Joining Christine during the year-end festivities were fellow board members Jacqueline Lim of First Asia Manufacturing, Monina Leslie Ferrer of Snoe Beaute Produits Inc., Denice Sy of Ever Bilena Cosmetics, Inc., Dennies Ladia of Environatural Corporation, Dr. Janina Tan of Jradiance Corporation, and Shirley Cayago of Splash Corporation.

The event, co-hosted by Denice Sy, Dominic Plana, and Tin Guiao, was filled with energy, entertainment, and warm fellowship among members. Guests enjoyed great drinks, lively music, and the excellent company of colleagues from across the industry.

But the night's highlight was the announcement of the election results for CCIP’s new Board of Trustees of 2025. The new trustees will work alongside the current board members.

The Election Committee, led by Gladys Conopio of DKSH Philippines, Inc., Lessie Galindo of Brenntag Ingredients, Inc., and Faye Muñoz of Chemrez Technologies, Inc., announced the newly appointed trustees: Aio Nery of CCT Chemicals Inc., Jellie Marie Villamor of GT Cosmetics in Cebu, Maria Roberta Estacio of Harem Inc., Ramon Claridad of Rainiers Research and Development Institute, John Robinson Uy of Unilever Philippines, Michael Zotomayor of ZLab International Corporation and Kimberly Sablayan of Lifestrong Marketing, Inc.

As the Chamber moves into 2025 with a dynamic and visionary board, CCIP reaffirms its dedication to empowering the local cosmetics industry and fostering collaboration among its diverse and vibrant membership.
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MMDA Honors Top Barangays in Results-Based Incentives Awarding for Solid Waste Management

Sunday, January 12, 2025

top-performing project barangays of the Metro Manila Flood Management Project

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) proudly recognized the top-performing project barangays of the Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP) for their exemplary implementation of community-based solid waste management (SWM) under the project's Results-based Incentive (RBI) scheme. The awarding ceremony took place at the Red Hotel in Cubao, Quezon City, highlighting the success of the barangays in managing solid wastes in their communities and contributing to the minimization of waste in waterways, which is critical for flood mitigation.

A total of 12 top-performing barangays from across the 85 project barangays of MMFMP in Metro Manila were selected based on agreed performance measures on community-based plans and practices in waste collection, segregation, and diversion. Under the RBI scheme, these barangays consequently underwent a performance validation process led by a technical working group composed of representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) and the De La Salle University.

After the evaluation, three barangays emerged as the top performers. The best-performing barangays, Barangay 136 in Manila, Barangay San Isidro in Makati, and Barangay 94 in Manila, each received major incentives and a Solid Waste Management Investment amounting to PHP 750,000 for their outstanding efforts in improving waste collection, segregation, and disposal practices. Meanwhile, the remaining top barangays received minor incentives, including solid waste management (SWM) tools worth PHP 50,000 each.

MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando S. Artes emphasized the significance of the RBI scheme, stating, “Our Results-Based Incentives scheme is a very tangible initiative with clear results rooted in the power of collaboration. The success of these barangays proves that with the right support, community engagement, and incentives, we can make significant strides in reducing waste in Metro Manila’s waterways, ultimately preventing flooding and creating cleaner, more sustainable neighborhoods.”

MMDA General Manager Undersecretary Procopio G. Lipana emphasized that “Since the launch of the RBI in 2023, we have partnered with various agencies to assess and evaluate the performance of barangays in managing their waste. I send my heartfelt congratulations to the twelve barangays that have demonstrated exemplary dedication and leadership in solid [waste] management. Your efforts are making a real difference, not only in your communities but across Metro Manila.”

“What we are doing now is all anchored on our ten-year roadmap to zero waste. Because that is now the trend, we have to remove the word ‘garbage.’ But we have turned the waste into a valuable resource. Pursuant to Republic Act 9003, we have to segregate at source,” he added.

The RBI program is part of the larger Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP) under Component 2, which aims to minimize solid waste in waterways. The program incentivizes barangays to improve their SWM practices, thereby reducing the volume of waste that accumulates in waterways and pumping stations, which can inhibit their flood control functions.

The top-performing barangays demonstrated innovative strategies and exceptional dedication to solid waste management, setting benchmarks for other communities. Barangay 136 of Manila implemented a robust waste segregation program, achieving approximately 90% household participation through ordinances, seminars, and social media campaigns. Barangay San Isidro, Makati formalized a subsystem for inaccessible areas, increasing waste collection coverage to nearly 100% and diverting more biodegradable waste since 2021. Meanwhile, Barangay 94 of Manila established a Barangay Materials Recovery Facility near its estero to streamline waste management and recycling efforts, ensuring proper waste disposal and promoting tie-ups with local junk shops and NGOs.

These barangays not only improved their local environments but also inspired sustainable practices among their residents, contributing significantly to Metro Manila’s waste management goals.

As the top performers were recognized for their solid waste management initiatives that not only improved waste collection and segregation but also fostered a culture of sustainability among its residents, the RBI program’s pilot implementation will continue to be refined, with plans for replication in more barangays across Metro Manila. The MMDA hopes to inspire other local government units to adopt the same model, further expanding the reach of community-based solid waste management practices.

Dir. Josias E. Syquimsiam, Jr., Director IV of the Solid Waste Management Office, said “"As public servants, we don't expect to be recognized for our service to the nation, as it is our sworn duty. However, MMDA chooses to give importance to these efforts. We understand the hardships and challenges you've endured in managing waste in your communities."

"Today, the MMDA recognizes the steps you have taken to maintain order and cleanliness, not only in your respective barangays but for the entire Metro Manila. We hope this continues and that the initiatives you have chosen to establish serve as a model, enabling us to do what’s right for our shared environment. We are beyond grateful to be your partner in providing an ecological, systematic, comprehensive, and, most importantly, sustainable solid waste management program for the people of Metro Manila," he continued.

The ceremony also included presentations from the winning barangays, showcasing their innovative SWM initiatives and plans, as well as sustained improvements in waste management practices. The event concluded with a commitment from the MMDA and partner barangays to continue working together in achieving a cleaner, flood-resilient Metro Manila.

For more information about MMDA’s Results-Based Incentives program and other initiatives under the Metro Manila Flood Management Project, visit the MMDA website or follow @MMDA on social media.


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Bossjob Successfully Concludes First-Ever Kasanggayahan HR Summit in Sorsogon

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Kasanggayahan HR Summit

Bossjob, the fastest-growing AI-powered mobile chat-first recruitment platform, marked another milestone as it successfully concluded the First-Ever Kasanggayahan HR Summit in Sorsogon Province. The event, held at Villa Isabel Hotel, gathered hundreds of participants, including HR professionals, MSME owners, and local leaders. This collaborative effort was supported by the City Government of Sorsogon, the Provincial Government of Sorsogon, the Sorsogon City BPLO Chief Rodel Ferreras, and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Sorsogon, led by Provincial Director Ma. Lourdes Pancho.

In her speech, Ma. Lourdes Pancho expressed her enthusiasm for Bossjob’s expansion into the region, particularly in the province of Sorsogon. She highlighted the platform’s potential to greatly benefit Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by streamlining their recruitment processes. “We are thrilled with Bossjob’s entry into Sorsogon. It’s a game-changer for our business sector. DTI is committed to supporting Bossjob’s initiatives that empower MSMEs in the province,” she said.

Keynote Speaker Highlights the Role of HR in Business Growth

Darwin Rivers

The summit featured Darwin Rivers, an acclaimed HR professional, founder of Philippine HR Group and guest speaker, who emphasized the critical role HR plays in driving business growth. Rivers discussed the "4 E's" of managing employees effectively:

  • Employee Engagement
  • Employee Enablement
  • Employee Satisfaction
  • Employee Experience

He noted that while many organizations focus heavily on employee engagement, they often overlook the equally vital areas of enablement, satisfaction, and overall experience. His insights resonated strongly with the audience, inspiring HR professionals and business owners to adopt a more holistic approach to employee management.

Bossjob’s Role in Empowering MSMEs

The event opened with a warm welcome from Feby Joy Llosala-Luneza, Growth Director of Bossjob, who expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from local government units and partner organizations. Bossjob’s Sales Manager for Expansion, Michelle Ayo, shared an insightful presentation on how the platform can revolutionize recruitment for MSMEs by offering cost-effective, AI-driven solutions.

“Our mission is to bridge the gap between employers and job seekers in the most efficient way possible. Bossjob is here to support Sorsogon’s businesses as they grow and thrive,” said Llosala-Luneza.

A Milestone for Sorsogon’s HR Community

The Kasanggayahan HR Summit marked a significant step in fostering collaboration among HR professionals, MSMEs, and local government units. It underscored the importance of strategic HR practices and innovative recruitment platforms like Bossjob in advancing the business landscape in the countryside.

With hundreds of participants and overwhelming support from key stakeholders, this event is a testament to Bossjob’s commitment to empowering businesses and job seekers alike. It also aligns with Bossjob’s broader mission to expand its footprint in key provinces, serving as a catalyst for growth and development in the Philippines’ MSME sector.

For more updates on Bossjob’s initiatives and events, visit www.bossjob.ph.
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Achieving Financial Goals in 2025: Your Blueprint for Success

Wednesday, January 1, 2025


The start of a new year brings a sense of renewal and opportunity. For 2025, setting and achieving financial goals can position you for long-term success and stability. Whether you’re saving for a dream vacation, planning to purchase your first home, or building an emergency fund, here’s how you can make your financial aspirations a reality.

1. Define Your Financial Goals Clearly

Start by being specific about what you want to achieve. Instead of vague statements like "I want to save more," try "I will save ₱50,000 by December 2025 for a family vacation." Clear, measurable goals provide direction and motivation.

2. Create a Realistic Budget

A well-structured budget is the backbone of financial planning. Review your income and expenses to identify areas where you can cut back. Use the 50/30/20 rule:

50% for necessities (rent, food, utilities)
30% for wants (entertainment, dining out)
20% for savings and debt repayment

There are free apps that can simplify the budgeting process.

3. Automate Your Savings

Set up automatic transfers to your savings account. Treat your savings like a non-negotiable expense to ensure consistency. If your goal is to save ₱5,000 per month, automate the transfer at the start of each month to avoid the temptation to spend.

4. Invest Wisely

Let your money work for you by exploring investment options like mutual funds, stocks, or real estate. For beginners, consult a financial advisor to align your investments with your risk tolerance and goals. Remember, the earlier you invest, the greater the potential for growth due to compounding interest.

5. Pay Down Debt Strategically

High-interest debt, like credit card balances, can derail your financial plans. Use strategies such as:

The Avalanche Method: Pay off high-interest debts first.
The Snowball Method: Pay off smaller debts first for psychological wins.

By eliminating debt, you free up funds for your goals.

6. Build an Emergency Fund

Life is unpredictable. Aim to save 3-6 months’ worth of living expenses in an easily accessible account. This fund acts as a financial cushion for unexpected events, such as medical emergencies or job loss.

7. Track Your Progress Regularly

Revisit your goals every month to assess your progress. Are you on track? If not, identify the roadblocks and adjust your strategies accordingly.

8. Stay Motivated with Visual Tools

Use visual aids like goal trackers or vision boards to remind yourself of what you’re working toward. Apps like Goodbudget and PocketGuard can also help you stay focused.

9. Educate Yourself Continuously

Financial literacy is key to making informed decisions. Read books, attend seminars, or listen to podcasts by experts like Dave Ramsey or Suze Orman.

10. Celebrate Small Wins

Achieving financial goals is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate milestones, like saving your first ₱10,000 or paying off a credit card. These celebrations will keep you motivated to reach the finish line.

Start Now for a Brighter Financial Future

2025 is your year to take control of your finances. With clear goals, disciplined budgeting, and a proactive mindset, you can achieve financial security and build the life you’ve envisioned.

What are your financial goals for 2025? Share them below and let’s inspire each other to succeed!
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Alipay+ Ecosystem Reaches 35 Partners, Connecting Merchants to More Travelers During Peak Season

Monday, December 23, 2024


  • The number of travelers using their Alipay+-supported home payment app while abroad increased three times
  • Alipay+ evolved to include cross-border mobile payment, destination marketing and digital lifestyle services, giving merchants more ways than ever to connect with customers
  • Alipay+ expands merchant coverage to more local stores, attractions, F&B and transportation, in line with preference to 'travel like a local’

Alipay+, Ant International’s cross-border mobile payment and digitalization technology solution, announced new payment partners, expanded global merchant coverage, and introduced exclusive rewards for partners’ users in time for the year-end peak travel season.

Alipay+ now has 35 international payment partners, serving more global travelers and connecting them to more than 90 million merchants in 66 markets. Beyond seamless cross-border mobile payment, Alipay+ now includes an in-app destination marketing platform with digital lifestyle services, giving merchants direct channels to reach and engage customers. Its destination marketing platform, A+ Rewards, is available in more than 10 leading superapps, including Touch ‘n Go eWallet from Malaysia, TrueMoney from Thailand, GCash from the Philippines and Kakao Pay from South Korea.

Travel has rebounded significantly in 2024, and according to the World Travel and Tourism Council, the tourism industry will break all records in 2024, with international spending increasing by 33%.

“Travel has a significant impact to local and regional economies, uplifting communities, small businesses and livelihoods, trends expected to accelerate in 2025,” said Douglas Feagin, President of Ant International. “Through a combination of innovation and partnerships with merchants and tourism organizations, we aim to help more businesses leverage the opportunities from growth in tourism, while continually enhancing the personalized travel experience for travelers.”

Alipay+ expands merchant coverage, empowering global consumers to ‘travel like a local’

Travel habits have shifted, and travelers are increasingly spending more on localized experiences, with an 80% increase at Food & Beverage (F&B) merchants, 50% increase at attractions and 120% increase on transportation such as ride-hailing, taxis and trains. Alipay+’s expanded acceptance at these essential travel scenarios enables travelers to ‘travel like a local’ this year-end and beyond.

In additional to the expanded coverage, Alipay+ is also introducing exclusive promotions in top destinations around the world, working closely with partners to offer travelers the best deals.

Japan: Following its expanded partnership with PayPay, Alipay+ now connects with over 3 million merchants, including many local SMEs like izakayas, wagashi shops, snack stores, anime merchandise shops, and guesthouses. Travelers can enjoy special rewards at these local stores, at top attractions like Tokyo SKYTREE, Tokyo Solamachi, TOKYO mizumachi, and Ekimise Asakusa, and at top merchants such as airport shops, department stores, premium shopping malls, electronics and appliance retailers, and health and beauty stores.

South Korea: Alipay+ expanded to iconic local destinations such as Myeong-dong Night Market in Seoul, Nami Island Night Market in Gangwon-do, and Aewol Café Street in Jeju. Tourists can also use Alipay+'s partner payment apps to pay for bus rides in Jeju and taxis in Seoul. Travelers can enjoy promotions at more than 1.9 million ZeroPay merchants and other attractions and merchants such as Everland Theme Park, GS25 convenience stores and more.

Singapore: Travelers can better enjoy the world renowned attractions and food in Singapore, with Alipay+ recently accepted at Mandai Wildlife Reserve, which includes the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and Bird Paradise, and expanded F&B merchants which include top foodie experiences such as CHAGEE, Toast Box and BreadTalk, and historical food site, Lau Pa Sat.

Malaysia: Alipay+ makes it easier for travelers comminuting between the airport and city with its acceptance at KLIA Express Rail Link in the capital. Pavilion KL, one of the top shopping malls with a wide collection of international and local brands and food also joins as one of the latest Alipay+ partners. Alipay+ is additionally connected with DuitNow QR with close to 2 million merchants.

Thailand: Alipay+ offers exclusive promotions at leading retailers under Central, Siam and King Power, and everyday conveniences such as 7-Eleven, BigC, Boots and BTS trains.

Philippines: Alipay+ has grown its coverage in key cities in the Philippines and is now accepted by more than 140,000 merchants, including the Mall of Asia, one of the largest shopping malls in the world.

Cambodia, Nepal: Alipay+ recently established new national standardized QR partnerships in Cambodia via KHQR and Nepal via NepalPay QR, providing ease of payment at more than 1 million and 875,000 local businesses respectively.

United Kingdom: Travelers can now more easily explore the arts culture in London, with Alipay+ recently accepted at Van Gogh House, in an historic building in London. Promotions are available at some of the most iconic retail destinations in London, including Harrods, Selfridges, Liberty of London, Harvey Nichols as well as at Bicester Village.

Germany: Alipay+ will introduce the “German Shopping Festival”, bringing together a wide range of German merchants, offering exclusive discounts, Christmas-themed travel guides, and unique shopping experiences.

France: Travelers visiting France will enjoy a promotional instant cashback on purchases at some of the top retail destinations in Paris such as Galeries Lafayettes, La Vallée Village and Printemps Haussman.

Italy: Alipay+ is now accepted at the biggest duty free store in Italy, Aelia Duty Free (Lagardere Group) at Rome airport. Additionally, Tinaba e-wallet users will benefit from cashback promotions running until end of January at Alipay+ enabled merchants across the country.

Istanbul: Alipay+ is now accepted at Unifree Duty Free at Istanbul Airport, the second busiest airport in Europe.

Abu Dhabi, Dubai: Travelers will benefit from a direct discount at key retailers such as Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and at key duty-free stores and airports, including Dubai Duty Free and Abu Dhabi Duty Free
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Bossjob Supports Commuting Jobseekers with FREE Beep Cards at Ayala MRT

Saturday, December 21, 2024


In an inspiring move to address the challenges faced by jobseekers and young professionals transitioning back to onsite work, Bossjob, the country’s leading AI-powered, chat-first recruitment platform, distributed free Beep Cards to commuters at MRT Ayala Station from December 16 to 20, 2024. This initiative reflects Bossjob's continuing commitment to empowering Filipinos and easing their jobseeking journeys.

With one of Metro Manila’s busiest transport hubs as the backdrop, the activity drew a diverse crowd of daily commuters eager to take part in the event. Bossjob’s effort comes at a critical time as businesses across the country are steadily returning to office-based operations, increasing the commuting burden on many workers.

"Shifting back to onsite work can be tough, especially with the added burden of daily commuting," said Kimberly Chen, Country Manager of Bossjob. "We recognize this challenge, and through initiatives like this, we aim to provide practical assistance while empowering jobseekers to confidently pursue opportunities that align with their career goals."


The free Beep Card initiative not only provides commuters with immediate financial relief but also highlights Bossjob’s broader mission of connecting employers and talents efficiently. By focusing on real-life needs such as transportation costs, Bossjob once again delivers on its dedication to make meaningful contributions to the labor force beyond recruitment.

Attendees expressed their appreciation for the thoughtful initiative, with one commuter sharing, "This is such a great help for people like me who are trying to make ends meet while pursuing better career opportunities. It shows that Bossjob truly cares about jobseekers like us."

Bossjob’s platform leverages AI-powered talent matching and direct chat features, streamlining the hiring process for both employers and jobseekers. By making job applications faster and more accessible, Bossjob is transforming the way professionals connect with opportunities in Southeast Asia.

This Beep Card initiative is just one of the many ways Bossjob continues to innovate and support its community, reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in the professional growth of Filipinos. The company remains committed to creating opportunities and empowering jobseekers to thrive in a competitive job market.

For more information about Bossjob and its recruitment solutions, visit Bossjob’s official website.










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Visa empowers OFWs, digital workers, and SME owners with seamless remittance solutions

Friday, December 20, 2024

seamless remittance solutions

As holiday remittances peak, Visa enhances its commitment to simplifying and securing digital money transfers for OFWs, digital workers, and SME owners worldwide.

Remittances from Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), digital workers, and SME owners surge during the holiday season, as many Filipinos abroad send extra funds to support family celebrations, year-end expenses, and business investments. In December 2023, remittances hit a record $3.6 billion, a 3.9% increase from the previous year. This seasonal boost provides essential financial support for Filipino households and local businesses, covering holiday needs and fueling consumer spending.

Digital money movement solutions are making it easier than ever for OFWs, digital workers, and SME owners to send money home. This has driven a surge in remittance volumes, especially during the holiday season. With 75% of Filipino senders using digital apps in 2023, according to Visa's Money Travels: 2024 Annual Remittances Adoption report, they can transfer funds with greater convenience, speed, and security.

From the Philippines to the world: supporting digital workers and SME owners

However, the movement of funds to and from the Philippines is not solely driven by OFWs. As the Philippine economy embraces digitalization, many Filipinos are increasingly servicing overseas clients through roles such as Virtual Assistants (VAs), in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector, and other online freelance work. This expanding community of digital workers is fueling cross-border transactions, boosting inbound flows, and solidifying the Philippines' position in the global digital economy. The country's BPO sector, a major driver of this growth, is forecasted to generate $35.5 billion in revenue and employ 1.82 million Filipinos by 2024. Complementing this is the rising freelance industry, with 1.5 million Filipinos now registered as freelancers.

Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines, said: “The Philippines has a robust OFW remittance market, contributing approximately 8.5% of the country’s GDP. With digital money movement solutions, Filipinos now have more options to send money back home. This shift simplifies financial support and fosters greater financial inclusion, enabling access to secure, regulated digital channels.

At Visa, we recognize the vital role that OFW remittances play in supporting Filipino families and driving economic resilience. By enhancing digital money movement solutions, we’re making it easier, faster, and safer for Filipinos to send and receive funds globally. Our commitment extends to empowering digital workers and SME owners with seamless and reliable cross-border payment solutions."

For freelancers and small business owners, digital payment modes offer opportunities to grow their businesses. Earlier research from Visa shows that among businesses in the Philippines that have adopted digital payments, those accepting cards saw the most significant turnover increases at 83%. Visa's data revealed that 72% of surveyed SMEs found business management easier with digital payments. These payments provide instant transfers and enable cashless transactions, enhancing the commerce experience. Visa supports SMEs by offering widespread acceptance and robust protection against fraudulent activities for both merchants and customers.

Making remittances more seamless

As more Filipinos turn to digital money movement platforms, many of the challenges associated with traditional money movement solutions —such as high fees, lengthy and processing times—are being reduced.

In the Philippines, where these barriers have long impacted senders and recipients alike, digital solutions are making remittances more affordable and convenient. In 2023, of the Filipinos who used digital money movement services, 58% indicated a preference to use them more frequently going forward, compared to just 24% for traditional money movement services. Digital users also report fewer issues and greater reliability, underscoring the advantages of digitization in making remittances easier and more accessible.

Visa recognizes the importance of seamless money movement solutions for OFWs and supports this through a Visa card feature that enables cardholders to instantly receive funds sent from abroad. This offers a faster and more convenient way to send funds globally. Any customer with a Visa card issued in the Philippines can receive funds by simply providing their card number to the sender.

This, among other innovative services, underscores Visa's commitment to enhancing digital money movement for Filipinos, which transforms how they connect with the global economy.

The ease, speed, and affordability of digital platforms are reshaping the money movement landscape, simplifying processes for OFWs, and unlocking opportunities for SMEs, outsourcing, and freelance industries. Visa’s commitment to digital solutions strengthens economic support, growth, and financial inclusion driving a more resilient Philippine economy.
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