IN AN effort to accelerate the digital transformation of the fishery sector, GCash, the country’s leading mobile wallet, joined forces with Rare Philippines to empower the financial capabilities of the fisherfolk community in Sipaway Island in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental.

Rare Philippines is an international conservation organization that helps communities adopt sustainable behaviors toward their natural environment and resources.

“It is vital that we empower our local fishery sector by providing them access to digital financial services that can help them thrive and grow their livelihood in the new normal. Our partnership with Rare Philippines can help educate and provide access to local fisherfolk on relevant products and services that can make their everyday lives better,” GCash President and CEO Martha Sazon said.

GCash and Rare Philippines will introduce GCash products and services to fisherfolk and vendors on the island.

These GCash products include Send Money, Pay Bills, GSave for a savings account, and GLoans for loans of up to P25,000. Aside from providing them a safe and convenient way of sending and receiving money, these products can also help them manage their budget for monthly bills and even empower them to start saving up for their future.

Rare Philippines Senior Manager for Financial and Market Inclusion Flora Belinario said Digital technology is indeed a very important factor in accelerating the transformation of the Philippine fishery sector.

“We are proud to work with GCash as we aim to further contribute to the government’s capacity-building efforts and make a difference in the lives of fishers and their families,” she added.

With its clear vision of “finance for all,” GCash has also been advocating equal financial opportunities for other Filipinos, such as community organizations and micro, small, and medium enterprises so they can continue to grow their businesses and serve their customers amid the pandemic.

GCash previously launched its GCash QR payment feature with the Antipolo Market Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association, Antipolo Sumulong College Lores Plaza Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association, and vendors at the Pasig City Mega Market and Farmers Market in Araneta City.

“In line with GCash’s vision of financial inclusion for all Filipinos, we also hold ourselves up to the highest standards, including the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) approach. From helping other leading companies to local communities of fisherfolk, we continuously strive to make each day better for all,” GCash Chief Customer Officer Winsley Bangit said.

With over 60 million registered users to date, GCash continues to offer innovative, accessible, and relevant financial products and services for Filipinos to make their lives easier, better, and safer. (PR)