A Step-by-Step Guide to Borrowing Responsibly with GLoan

 

Joan Guifaya, Sari-Sari Store Owner

Whether it’s a business that needs restocking, a child’s school expenses, or an unexpected gap in the household budget, life has a way of throwing financial needs when we least expect them. For many Filipinos, access to credit can provide helpful breathing room so they can keep other priorities on track.

According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas' (BSP) 2025 Consumer Finance and Inclusion Survey, more Filipinos are now moving towards formal lenders and away from informal borrowing options to cover essentials such as food, education, healthcare, and livelihood expenses. This reflects a wider mindset, too. A TransUnion's Consumer Pulse Study found that 58% see access to credit as an important tool to achieve their financial goals.

Still, having access to credit is only the first step. Credit works best when you know what you need, understand your loan terms, and borrow within your means – and this is what turns a loan into a manageable part of your finances, more than a source of stress. The experiences of three Filipino borrowers show how they navigated different financial needs with credit.

Step 1: Know What You Need and What You Can Manage

For small business owners, keeping shelves stocked is essential, but when cash flow is tight, restocking can mean waiting for sales before making the next purchase. Joan Guifaya, a sari- sari store owner from San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, experienced this firsthand. When she received a GLoan offer, she used it as additional capital for her business.

“Nakatulong talaga kasi kailangan ko na magdagdag ng stocks para hindi na ako pabalik-balik sa grocery... Ngayon kailangan ko na lang once a week na mag-grocery, dahil sa GLoan, kaya laking tulong,” she shares.

Joan’s experience highlights the importance of knowing what you need the loan for and borrowing only what you can manage. But responsible borrowing also means understanding what you’re taking on.

Aiwa Ramirez, Manpower Agency HR staff

Step 2: Check Your GLoan Offer and Understand the Terms

For Aiwa Ramirez, a manpower agency HR staff member from Cavite, GLoan helped cover her child’s tuition and school expenses when her income fell short.

“Malaking tulong kasi wala ako mapagkukunan talaga that time at mahirap din na makautang sa ibang tao. At least kay GLoan isang click lang meron na ako mai-tuition sa school ng anak ko,” she shares.

Aiwa also found that having a manageable repayment structure helped her stay on top of her payments. “Nakatulong din kasi magaan lang yong pag bayad kasi hulugan at mahaba ang term, hindi ako nagipit,” she adds.

Her experience shows why borrowers should look beyond the amount they can receive and understand the full terms of their offer. Before accepting, review the loan amount, applicable fees, repayment schedule, and total amount to be repaid, and consider whether these fit your budget.

For eligible users with an available offer, tap “Borrow” from the GCash dashboard and select GLoan. Before proceeding with your application, remember to review the loan details, Disclosure Statement, and Terms and Conditions carefully so you understand the terms of your loan.

Isel Magtibay, Personal Collection Agent

Step 3: Choose GLoan and Borrow Responsibly

Once you’ve identified your need and reviewed your loan offer, it’s also important to make sure you’re borrowing from an SEC-regulated lender and that you can manage the repayment. Borrowing only what you can realistically repay can help keep today’s solution from becoming tomorrow’s financial burden.

For Isel Magtibay, a personal collection agent from Pasig City, GLoan became an option when her income fell short of her children’s school expenses. She first heard about GLoan from friends who asked if she had already used it.

“Malaking tulong kasi kailangan nila sa school ng mga bata... Hindi na inabot ng kita ko yung ibang pang-school supplies kaya buti nalang si GLoan merong offer at nakapag-loan ako at nabili ang mga kailangan ng anak ko,” she recalls.

Her story shows how word-of-mouth can help Filipinos discover financial tools that may be available to them. But as with any loan, borrowers should check that their chosen lender is credible, understand the terms of their offer, and assess their ability to repay.

A More Informed Way to Borrow

The stories of Joan, Aiwa, and Isel show that Filipinos borrow for different reasons—but responsible borrowing follows the same basic principles: know your needs, check your offer, understand the terms, borrow only what you can manage, and stay on top of repayments.

For eligible GCash users, GLoan provides an accessible way to address financial needs directly through the GCash app when an offer is available. Ultimately, borrowing responsibly is about making informed choices that address today's needs while keeping tomorrow in mind. Because behind every loan is a real need, a real responsibility, and a reason to keep moving forward.

Kasama Mo Mangarap by GCash continues to empower Filipinos with financial tools that help

them navigate life's everyday challenges—one responsible financial decision at a time.

Explore magical elemental realms at Araneta City this Halloween

 

Araneta City opens a doorway to a magical world with this year's "The Rise of the Four Elements" Halloween celebration.

On October 31, the City of Firsts is transforming its malls into elemental realms to create otherworldly dimensions filled with vibrant events and activities. Kids and kids-at-heart can navigate the Water Realm at Gateway Mall 2, conquer the Fire Realm at Gateway Mall 1, float through the Air Realm at Ali Mall, and explore the Earth Realm at Farmers Plaza.

The activity areas of the four malls will be transformed into their respective elemental realms, each featuring themed photobooths, face painting stations, inflatable play areas, and cotton candy corners. Registration to participate in these realms is from 11am to 2pm.

In all these malls, shoppers and diners can also claim free Halloween loot bags filled with sweet treats and other items from Araneta City’s event partners. Just present a single receipt purchase of P2,000 to claim loot bags at Gateway Mall 2, and P1,500 to claim loot bags in the other three malls. Only receipt purchases on October 31 will be considered valid.

At Gateway Mall 2, entertainment at the Water Realm continues with a fun spookfest in the afternoon. The main highlight is the Elemental Guardians costume contest, where participants can showcase their most creative elemental-inspired costumes for a chance to win prizes. There will also be an Into the Sea show.

Outside the activity areas, kids can also enjoy the mall’s elemental realms through the traditional trick-or-treat activity. Participating stores and tenants will display special stickers to guide children and families taking part in the event.

World Kitchens

The spooky fun extends to World Kitchens at Level 4 of Gateway Mall 2. Diners with a single receipt purchase worth P2,000 from any show kitchen, including World Cellar, can also claim free Halloween loot bags.

Diners who avail of the Lunch Festival offering at Seafood 8 by Olio's will also receive a special Halloween candy bag from the restaurant.

aRUNeta Run Club

The magical Halloween adventure begins early through the weekly aRUNeta Run Club, which will stage a Race of the Elements costume run on October 25. Exciting rewards and raffle prizes await participants.

Gateway Cineplex 18

Moviegoers can also join the spooky fun at Araneta City. For every purchase of two tickets for Clayface, the horror-psychological thriller inspired by the DC Comics character, at Gateway Cineplex 18, moviegoers may receive a free limited-edition Clayface comic book.

Those who purchase three Clayface tickets may also receive an exclusive Clayface vanity kit. Both promos are available while supplies last

ibis Styles Manila

Before the Halloween activities in Araneta City malls, The Edge Skyview Bar of ibis Styles Manila will host “The Night We Got Ghosted”, an after-dark Halloween celebration on October 30 starting 9pm.

Taking place at the poolside bar on top of the hotel, the event will feature live DJ performances, exciting entertainment, and special food and beverage offers.

Novotel Manila

Families can extend their Halloween celebration with a special staycation package at Novotel Manila Araneta City. 

On October 31, guests can join "Little Explorers: The Enchanted Halloween Quest" at the hotel’s Versailles Tent, featuring games, activities, and surprises for children. The festivities will continue at the Food Exchange Manila with a themed lunch and dinner buffet from October 30 to November 1.

This Halloween, discover a magical spookfest filled with exciting treats, activities, and for shoppers, diners, moviegoers, runners, and families only at the City of Firsts.

MyBox is the absolute peak of your Pizza Hut solo cravings!

 

We have all been trapped in that late-afternoon doomscrolling loop where we are mindlessly swiping through our feed and the algo suddenly decides to spam every single comfort food imaginable right onto our screens. First, you see a video of a pizza with an insane cheese pull, and then a close-up image of some creamy pasta, and then a clip of a steaming basket of wings. And immediately the food noise kicks in, and your brain decides it absolutely needs all of it, like, yesterday!

Luckily, Pizza Hut looked at our collective crash-out and decided to cook up something crazy! Instead of having to order separate full-sized meals just to satisfy your random cravings, now you can enjoy all your favorites together in a single, zero-compromise package with the new Pizza Hut MyBox! With three irresistible sets to choose from, you'll never have to settle for something mid when you can satisfy every single craving all at once!

MyBox Pasta (P279)

Craving spaghetti and pasta? Tara, MyBox Pasta TAYO! Tear into a personal Pan Pizza in your favorite classic flavor (Cheese Lovers, Hawaiian Supreme, or Pepperoni Lovers) and pair it with a generous serving of savory Spaghetti Bolognese or creamy Carbonara. Enjoy the perfect contrast of gooey cheese and rich noodles and round out your feast with a warm bowl of Mushroom Soup, crispy Tater Tots, and an ice-cold Pepsi!

MyBox Rice (P299)

Can’t go on without rice? Tara, MyBox Rice Tayo! Lock in your choice of a classic Cheese Lovers, Hawaiian Supreme, or Pepperoni Lovers personal Pan Pizza, and pair it with two pieces of crispy WingStreet in whatever flavor you feel like vibing with today. Mix that crunch with a hot scoop of plain rice and complete your whole savory layout with a cozy bowl of Mushroom Soup and a refreshing Pepsi to keep your energy high!

MyBox Ultimate (P349)

If you’re feeling like HUNGRY hungry, tara, MyBox Ultimate TAYO! Go all-out and treat yourself to the ultimate solo indulgence with your personal pan pizza in classic Cheese Lovers, Hawaiian Supreme, or Pepperoni Lovers, and pack your box with a serving of rich Spaghetti Bolognese or creamy Carbonara alongside three pieces of WingStreet in your favorite flavor. Wash down that intense flavor explosion with a soothing bowl of Mushroom Soup and a cold Pepsi to complete your feast!

The new Pizza Hut MyBox is the perfect lifesaver for lunch or dinner or whenever you just need a massive win. It’s great for solo meals when you are completely buried in work or school deadlines and cooking feels like a massive chore, or when you are just enjoying that peaceful solo life on a random weekend. It’s also great for casual get-togethers with your crew, or anytime you just crave a complete and satisfying mix of your favorite comfort foods without any of the drama!

Ano? Tara! MyBox TAYO!

Get your very own Pizza Hut MyBox anytime, anywhere by visiting your nearest Pizza Hut store for take- out orders*. You can also order for delivery by calling the (02) 8911-1111 hotline, by logging on to www.pizzahut.com.ph, by downloading the Pizza Hut mobile app, available for Android and iOS devices, or by ordering through Pizza Hut’s official delivery partners GrabFood and foodpanda (prices may vary).

Don’t forget to follow and like Pizza Hut on Facebook, Instagram, and X so you won’t miss out on the latest news, updates, and offers!

What Adulting in 2026 Looks Like: Spoiler—It’s Not Just Your Night Routine

 

Adulting in your 30s hits differently. Suddenly, your idea of a good weekend includes getting enough sleep, grocery shopping before the fridge is completely empty, and finally figuring out where your salary goes every month. Between career goals, bills, travel plans, and the occasional “deserve ko ’to” purchase, keeping your finances in check can feel like another full- time job.

And if you’ve ever wondered whether you’re doing enough to prepare for the future, you’re not alone. The Philippines’ National Strategy for Financial Inclusion 2022–2028 highlights the importance of improving Filipinos’ access to financial services and strengthening financial literacy. On a more personal level, that means learning how to manage your money, prepare for unexpected expenses, and make informed decisions about your future.

The good news? You don’t need to have your entire life together by Monday. A few simple habits can help you feel more financially prepared, without turning adulting into another item in your already endless to-do list. Here are three worth adding to your adulting checklist in 2026.

Building Your Nest Egg, One Payday at a Time

Payday is exciting until rent, utilities, groceries, subscriptions, and that dinner you promised your friends all lined up to collect their share.

One simple adulting habit worth building is planning your money before it gets spent. A simple breakdown of what you need, what you want, and what you want to save can help you enjoy your money without feeling guilty every time you check your balance.

Preparing for Plot Twists, Because Life Happens

Adulting means realizing that not every expense comes with a heads-up. That’s where having an emergency fund is important. Having money set aside for unexpected expenses can help you handle surprise moments without dipping into money meant for other goals.

Start small if saving three to six months’ worth of essential expenses feels intimidating. Think of it as carrying an umbrella even when the forecast looks sunny—you might not need it today, but you’ll be glad it’s there when life gets unpredictable.

Exploring New Ways to Grow Your Money

If you’re ahead on the money-saving game, lucky you! As you become more comfortable managing your finances, you can explore different ways to grow your money.

Time deposits, mutual funds, and stocks build your foundation of investments, but for those wondering what else your money can do, Bitcoin has become the go-to investment for those looking into cryptocurrencies. You don’t have to be an expert to start learning, and exploring your options doesn’t mean committing a huge amount of money right away.

If you’re curious about crypto, taking the time to understand how it works and the risks involved is a good first step. For those who want to explore further, GCrypto on GCash lets eligible users access Bitcoin and other top, expert-vetted crypto coins directly through the app they already use every day. You can register in as fast as 30 seconds and start with as little as ₱200. Just remember to do your research: crypto prices can fluctuate significantly, and returns are never guaranteed. Prioritize essential expenses and emergency savings and understand that all kinds of investments carry risks.

A Little More Prepared for Whatever Comes Next

Adulting in 2026 isn’t just about having your morning routine down, keeping your space organized, or finally sticking to your skincare regimen. It’s also about building habits that help you feel more confident about your finances, one decision at a time.

Whether you’re budgeting better, building your rainy-day fund, or exploring new ways to invest,

the key is finding an approach that fits your life and goals. And if Bitcoin has been on your radar, GCrypto offers an accessible way for eligible GCash users to start exploring crypto right in the app.

You don’t need to have your entire future mapped out today. Start small, keep learning, and make money moves that feel right for you. Because sometimes, the most satisfying adulting milestone isn’t getting everything perfect—it’s knowing you’re taking steps toward the life you want.

Ready to explore Bitcoin? Open your GCash app, head to the Invest tab to find GCrypto and choose Bitcoin to get started! With as little as ₱200, users can take their first step into crypto and learn at their own pace.

Download the GCash app on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei AppGallery. IKAW NA MAY CRYPTO! Get it from GCrypto, The Easy Crypto.

Araneta City’s Guide to Oktoberfest, Dining, and Nights Out

 

World Kitchens Octoberfest

October is a good month for an after-work drink, a plate of good food, and a catch-up with friends that runs a little longer than planned.

Taking its cue from Oktoberfest, Araneta City is highlighting its dining scene, with more than 350 food outlets across the city, alongside seasonal drink deals and a Halloween night out lined up for the month.

Drink deals

In the spirit of Oktoberfest, The Whisky Bar and World Kitchens on Level 4 of Gateway Mall 2 are offering a drink-and-bar-chow combo deal for only ₱499 until October 31. The promo includes two Classic Lemon Highballs from The Whisky Bar, and one bar chow from select World Kitchens restaurants.

Bar chow choices include Garlic Salt & Pepper Calamari from Seafood 8 by Olio’s, Mozzarella Dynamite from Kevin’s Diner, Wok Fried Wonton from 18 Jade, French Fries from Dario Pizza & More, Karaage from Ramen Masa, Buta Skewer from Unagi Yukimitsu, Ebi Tempura from Kuro Maguro, Sausage with Fries from Shinshima, and Sweet Chili Shrimp from HK Ma’s Bistro.

At the Food Plaza (Lower Ground Floor of Farmers Plaza), there’s the October Beerfest that gives friends and colleagues another reason to gather after work. The promotion offers a Buy 1 Take 1 deal every Monday to Thursday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. until November 30, 2026, making the late-afternoon hours a good time to unwind over drinks before heading home.

The Edge Skyview Bar ibis Styles Manila Araneta City - The Night We Got Ghosted

Halloween fun seekers can head to The Edge Skyview Bar at ibis Styles Manila Araneta City on 30 for The Night We Got Ghosted, an evening of costumes, drinks, and DJ beats overlooking the city skyline.

Other promos

For those who prefer a daytime food trip, the Araneta City Lunch Festival continues. It features more than 60 restaurants that offer specially curated lunch set menus starting at ₱399, giving diners a chance to explore new dining spots during the workday at an affordable price. Lunch offerings can be viewed here.

Farmers Plaza, Food Plaza - Beer Fest

Diners can also join the Mix, Match & Win! Food Courts & Dampa Rainy Season Promo. Guests just need to present at any designated booth a receipt with a minimum spend of ₱300 and a Coca-Cola product at Food Express (Gateway Mall 1) or Food Plaza (Farmers Plaza), or ₱500 with two Coca- Cola products at Dampa (Farmers Market) to join the game and win exciting prizes.

With Oktoberfest-inspired drinks available through the end of October and Halloween just around the corner, a night out at Araneta City need not require much planning. Sometimes, a good drink, a plate to share, and a few friends are reason enough to step out of the usual routine.