Category: Finance

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A Traveler’s Guide To Affordable and Fun Adventures

From take-off to touchdown, make your next travel worry-free with BDO

Going on vacations is one of life’s greatest joys—from exploring new destinations and experiencing different cultures to creating unforgettable memories with friends and family. Unexpected mishaps and last-minute changes should not derail it.

That’s where BDO Insure Travel Insurance steps in, ensuring your trip is as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible. Whether medical emergencies, baggage delays, or flight disruptions, BDO Insure expertly selects packages from different insurance partners to provide only the best options tailored to your needs.

Affordable options are available for travelers aged up to 75 years.

  • Planning a four-day visit to Asia? Coverage for emergency medical treatment benefits of up to Ph500,000 starts at Ph350. Want more protection? Boost your coverage to Ph1.5 million for just Ph463. That’s a small price to pay for a big peace of mind.
  • Heading to the United States for 15 days? Enjoy up to Ph1.5 million in emergency medical treatment for as low as Ph917.
  • Planning to explore the Eiffel Tower in France? We’ve partnered with an accredited insurance provider whose plans are fully Schengen visa compliant, which is Ph2.5M in emergency medical treatment for as low as Ph1,749 for a 15-day trip.

Apart from these benefits, travelers can now opt for a more comprehensive cover which includes emergency treatment of pre-existing conditions and extreme activities, reimbursement of rebooking fees, and an additional benefit for the first 4-hour delay and baggage delay for return flights.

For a more seamless experience, purchase your travel insurance in the Philippines at least four hours before your departure.

Next time you pack, remember to include peace of mind with an insurance package that lets you travel safely and enjoy every moment worry-free. BDO Insure Travel Insurance includes COVID-19 coverage, travel inconvenience benefits, and access to a 24/7 Emergency Travel Assistance Hotline.

We invite you to conveniently purchase your travel insurance online at https://www.bdo.com.ph/bdo-insure/personal/travel.

BDO Insure is a registered trademark of BDO Insurance and Reinsurance Brokers, Inc. (formerly BDO Insurance Brokers, Inc.), an insurance broker licensed and supervised by the Insurance Commission of the Philippines. Its financial products are not deposit products. The PDIC does not insure these products, nor does BDO Unibank, Inc. guarantee them.

For inquiries and concerns, please call our BDO Insure Contact Center at (02) 8838-2364. The BDO Insure trademarks are owned by BDO Insurance and Reinsurance Brokers, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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How to Make All Your #TravelGoals Come True This Year

Discover how you can unlock exclusive travel promos with the GCash Card

Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore – these are just some of the top destinations of Pinoy travelers last year. Whether it’s a quick getaway, an adventure abroad, or a return trip to your favorite country, making your #travelgoals a reality starts with good planning.

With 2025 well underway and everyone eager to tick off the countries on their bucket lists, here are a few tips and tricks for a fun, stress-free, and memorable trip abroad while ensuring you always get the most out of your money.

Create a travel budget and track all your expenses

It is so easy to get carried away by the sheer excitement of traveling abroad. This excitement can sometimes lead travellers to make expensive mistakes, such as booking overpriced hotels, planning too many costly activities in their itinerary, or purchasing excessive clothes and souvenirs that exceed their baggage allowance.

While it’s wonderful to splurge once in a while for a trip abroad, setting a budget can help you financially stay on track and prevent unexpected expenses. Who knows? You might save enough to be able to go on another trip later in the year!

An easy way to keep an eye on your budget is by tracking all your expenses in a notebook, an online spreadsheet, or an app – what matters is finding what works best to help you stay on top of your expenses so you can see where you can ease off on spending.

Research, research, and research

With a set budget in mind, your next planning focus would be finding the most ideal flights, accommodations, and tours. Now, research options to see if they meet your needs. Researching for your trip can be as simple (and fun!) as reading blog posts and watching travel videos about your dream destination. You can also check out reviews of certain hotels, restaurants, and activities to see whether they’re worth booking or not.

Before you finalize anything, make sure you also take a look at online promos and discounts, because it’s usually cheaper to book in advance online, rather than when you get to your destination. Also, make sure the travel apps and websites you’ll be booking on are safe and legit!

Get exclusive deals with your GCash VISA Card

One way you can unlock exclusive travel deals is by paying with the GCash VISA Card. Available in 200+ countries and territories and with over 80 million merchants, the GCash Card opens up endless possibilities – from the planning stages of your trip until you’re at your destination.

Using your GCash Card to pay for hotel bookings at Agoda gives you an exclusive 8% discount. Lifestyle and travel content creator Kara Rodriguez knows all about this convenient deal. During her recent stay in Cebu with her mom, she was able to take advantage of a hotel booking discount that provided everything she needed to truly connect with her mom! Check out her vlog here, and remember that with smart planning and your GCash Card always on hand, you can secure deals just like Kara did.

Embed video: https://www.tiktok.com/@karaysabella/video/7450340865966460178?_t=ZS-8uamg3Xdhgt&_r=1

But that’s not all! You can also book hotel stays with IHG and use your GCash Card for up to 20% off in participating hotels in Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, the Maldives, Laos, Japan, Micronesia, Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific Islands!

Enjoy your travel adventure

With your bookings finalized, time to pack your bags, grab your passport, and get your OOTDs ready. Take lots of photos and videos, check out your destination’s hottest food and culture spots, and make unforgettable memories. Most of all, don’t forget to bring the all-new VISA-powered GCash Card with you for more convenient travels!

Easily order one without the need for required documents through the GCash app; turn your #travelgoals into a reality! To learn more, visit GCash at www.new.gcash.com/services/cards.

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Bank your way with BDO’s Universal Teller Machine

Do you believe that certain bank transactions are exclusive to the counter? Not anymore! With BDO’s Universal Teller Machine (UTM), everyday banking has become simpler and more convenient, giving you more ways to choose how you bank.

Whether you need to deposit your cheque, update your passbook, or make cardless transactions, the UTM enhances your banking experience with advanced self-service options.

“By integrating digital innovations into our expansive branch network, we empower more customers to bank in ways that suit their diverse lifestyles and needs,” says Cora A. Mallillin, BDO Branch Banking Group Head and Executive Vice President. “That’s why we are expanding the rollout of UTMs to more branches nationwide. With around 500 UTMs already installed, mostly in Metro Manila, more customers can enjoy flexible and hassle-free transactions.”

So the next time you plan a visit to a BDO branch, discover the following features that make the UTM smart and unique:

Fast check deposit, check! Now you can walk up to the UTM and deposit checks–as easily as depositing cash in a machine. The UTM lets you view your cheque details before completing the transaction, giving you peace of mind with an SMS afterwards.

 

Update your passbook on the go. With the UTM, you can update your passbook at your own convenience—simply insert your passbook once prompted. Within seconds, the UTM will automatically update your records, saving you more time for things that matter.

 

Cardless transactions, cool! No card? No worries with the UTM. Choose your way: scan your fingerprint to access your account or generate a QR code via the BDO Online or BDO Pay app. It’s that easy, simple, and seamless.

 

Join the many BDO clients who have discovered UTM in BDO branches and are sharing their wow experiences on social media. Find the BDO branch and UTM near you by visiting www.bdo.com.ph and going to the branch and ATM locator.

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Dine out with up to 55% off—only with BDO Pay!

Dining out is much more delicious with a discount—especially if it’s up to 55% off! All you have to do is pay the bill with your BDO Credit Card through BDO Pay.

This April, BDO Elite and Gold Credit Cardholders can enjoy 50% off and an extra 5% off when paying through BDO Pay in these restaurants:

  • Botejyu: An authentic Japanese traditional cuisine restaurant serving a variety of dishes – from sushi and ramen to the signature okosoba or okonomiyaki. Dine in with a minimum of P3,000 and get 55% off using BDO Elite or Gold Credit Cards on BDO Pay.
  • Greyhound Café: Craving Thai food? Greyhound Cafe offers ‘Thai food with a twist’. Pay using your BDO Elite or Gold Credit Card through BDO Pay and get 55% off a minimum dine-in bill of P3,000.

Standard, Classic, or Co-Brand BDO Cardholders can also enjoy 30% off plus an extra 5% off with BDO Pay.

Ready to enjoy this deal? Download the BDO Pay app, sign up for an account, and link your BDO Credit Card. After the app launches, use its scanning feature to settle your restaurant bill, which will subsequently charge your credit card.

Get it while it’s hot—these discounts are valid Monday through Friday until April 30, 2025, only!

For more promo details, visit the BDO website and search for the restaurant’s name.

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How To Live Your Best Summer Ever, According To Heart Evangelista

Summer is now underway and brings with it a season of leisurely holidays and thrilling trips. Although everyone has their ideal summer bucket list, we could all use a suggestion or two to make the most of this season. Count on no less than renowned fashion and lifestyle star Heart Evangelista to help you make this summer the best ever. Heart, who was just introduced as the face of the GCash summer campaign, tells tales and glimpses of how she intends to realise her fantasy summer. Heart spills it all from the ideal day in one of her beloved locations, her tried-and-true travel tips, and even her most recent finding on the best method to pay when travelling.

“Summers are always so special to me. Ever since I was a kid, it’s the season I look forward to the most because summer meant travelling and making new memories,” she shares.

Recently ruling Paris and Milan Fashion Weeks, the actress admits that her ideal summer vacation this year is not too far from home: “Japan—I love it this season. It’s also a special place that I love visiting with my husband and our kids. My sisters and I also have many great memories there.”

Heart remembers all the excursions she has taken in Tokyo and has already developed the ideal schedule for the city she wishes everyone to visit: “I’ll start with sushi in Omotesando, then coffee in a quaint cafe in the area, followed by hours of vintage designer shopping. I’ve found so many treasures at great prices over the years—from bags, shoes, jackets, and jewellery. I’ll end the day getting lost in Don Quijote buying anik-anik, then eat snacks at a convenience store before calling it a day. I’m getting excited just thinking about it!”

Photo taken by: Nikko Mendoza
Heart Evangelista on a night out in Paris during Fashion Week 2025

Given her frequent travels, often hopping between Manila and other destinations around the world, it’s safe to assume that Heart has already perfected her pre-travel preparations. Of course she has. She has the crucial stuff organised in her thoughts weeks before a trip—we’re talking about clothes and shopping. Her mindset for the season dictates how she prepares outfits in advance and dedicates at least a day to packing and organising, which naturally includes budgeting. “I’m better at budgeting now! I’ll set a budget for the trip, transfer it to my GCash account, and use my GCash Card for the trip. That way, I have better control of my spending. It’s so convenient,” she shares.

Heart dreams of a summer journey reminiscent of a montage of her travels in real life in the recently released GCash film featuring the actress. One moment, she was shopping for a purse in Japan; the next, she was enjoying a mango shake in beautiful Boracay—all with her reliable travel companion, her GCash card.

Heart remembers an occasion when GCash demonstrated its simplicity even more: “I was shopping in an airport abroad when I found a lipstick that I knew a dear friend had been looking for. Even though it was already late in Manila, I called my friend, who became ecstatic and asked me to purchase all the stocks they had. I immediately tapped my GCash Card, and that was that! I tapped my GCash Card, and the exchange rate was also really good. She also added that she and her team rely heavily on their GCash cards when abroad to be stress-free. “We use it for cabs, booking cars, buying snacks, shopping—everything!”

Photo taken by: Nikko Mendoza
Heart Evangelista in Paris during Fashion Week 2025

Heart advises GCash users to maximise the tools and services on the app they could be overlooking to have a fuss-free journey. Although most users just know the ease of sending money and paying basic bills on the app, GCash really offers many services that can save you valuable time and money, particularly when travelling. First of all, your GCash Card serves as a debit card for convenience in transactions and may be used to withdraw money from ATMs at reasonable exchange rates, relieving you of concern about locating money changers overseas. “The GCash Card is the best way to pay abroad for me. The card’s low forex and service fees, along with its absence of hidden charges, are truly life-changing, according to Heart.

Another advantage of GCash’s GlobalPay function is that it lets customers quickly pay via QR in chosen stores, unlocking discounts and rewards overseas. Using Scan To Pay in a few chosen stores until April 30, 2025, will allow you to earn a 10% discount in Japan. One other feature Heart strongly recommends is GInsure: “Travel insurance is truly important—you never know what’s going to happen. Many people forget about this, but this is a tip I always give for a stress-free trip. Once you have insurance, you can have the best summer,” she says. Users can effortlessly purchase travel insurance for international trips with GInsure, which covers trip cancellations, lost baggage, flight delays, medical emergencies, and more for as low as P350 and offers coverage up to P2.5 million.

When asked how she thinks summer trips can be both memorable and rewarding, Heart says not to forget to live in the moment. “Enjoy the moment when you’re finally on the trip you planned and saved up for. Remember, it’s a summer trip to make memories and milestones—take many photos and, yes, reward yourself with delicious food and indulge in a bit of shopping with GCash. I’m serious!”

The globe is Heart’s runway, and she is eager to bring her ideal summer to pass. “Elevated basics and understated elegance are my mood board for this summer trip. I’ll pair my neutral outfits with an intriguing bag in tow—with my GCash Card inside, of course,” she quips. Like Heart, we can all support GCash to bring our ideal summers to pass. GCash is your dependable friend, whether your trip is local, overseas, or just staycations—cozying up in hotels. With your GCash Card, enjoy cashless transactions, use Global Pay to unlock benefits, and stay safe and secure with GInsure. Are you planning to indulge in some summer shopping? Using GGives will help you pay less. There are numerous opportunities.

Download the GCash app to find out how you may spend your summer to remember. View Heart’s fantasy summer film on GCash’s social media pages.

 

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BDO Backs NAIA Modernization To Boost Air Mobility

Recognizing the vital role of infrastructure in national progress, BDO Unibank Inc. (BDO) remains committed to supporting projects that help advance essential services and drive sustainable growth. Through its participation in the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) modernization, BDO continues to be a strong partner in transforming the Philippines’ primary gateway, enhancing connectivity and economic opportunities in the country.

Facilitated by BDO’s Institutional Banking Group and BDO Capital & Investment Corporation (BDO Capital), BDO helped secure PHP 80 billion (US$ 1.42 billion) in funding for New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC), the consortium awarded the concession to rehabilitate and modernize NAIA. The consortium, led by San Miguel Holdings Corporation, the infrastructure arm of San Miguel Corporation (SMC), alongside RMM Asian Logistics Inc., RLW Aviation Development Inc., and Incheon International Airport Corporation (IIAC), aims to significantly improve the airport’s efficiency and passenger experience.

SMC, a key member of NNIC, contributes its extensive infrastructure expertise and market leadership, with businesses spanning multiple industries and driving approximately 6% of the Philippines’ GDP. Meanwhile, IIAC, a wholly owned entity of the Korean government and the operator of South Korea’s Incheon airport, one of Asia’s busiest airports, brings global practices in airport management, technology, and operational efficiency. Their involvement underscores the confidence of international stakeholders in the Philippines’ economic potential and infrastructure modernization efforts.

BDO’s ability to swiftly mobilize significant capital in a tight timeframe demonstrates its leadership in large-scale infrastructure investment. BDO Capital, in collaboration with other investment banks, structured a deal that ensured a seamless funding process for NNIC, overcoming complex market dynamics.

“BDO has been a steadfast partner in infrastructure development, ensuring projects like the NAIA modernization have the necessary financial backing to succeed. This initiative will drive economic growth, improve air mobility, and enhance the Philippines’ position as a regional hub,” said Eduardo V. Francisco, President of BDO Capital.

Charles M. Rodriguez, BDO’s Executive Vice President and Head of Institutional Banking Group, added, “We take pride in supporting transformative projects that create long-term value for businesses and communities. The modernization of NAIA is a milestone in improving air travel efficiency and accessibility for millions of Filipinos.”

BDO’s support has been crucial in providing the resources needed to modernize NAIA. Their financial expertise strengthens our efforts to transform the airport into a world-class gateway that drives economic growth, improves connectivity, and delivers a seamless travel experience for millions of passengers,” said Angelito Alvarez, NNIC’s General Manager.

The NAIA modernization project, awarded before the end of 2024, was one of the administration’s priority undertakings. Understanding the fiscal challenges inherited by the current administration, BDO is leveraging private sector collaboration to ensure critical infrastructure initiatives remain on track. This landmark transaction highlights BDO’s support for the government’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) programs, fostering improved air mobility and infrastructure development. As the largest PPP under the current administration, this project is expected to generate substantial revenue for the Philippine government while creating new jobs, boosting tourism, and attracting foreign investment.

The modernization of NAIA is a crucial component of a broader transport infrastructure upgrade, complementing projects such as the Metro Manila subway and the New Manila International Airport in Bulacan. Together, these initiatives will create a more integrated and efficient transportation network, driving economic opportunities and reinforcing the country’s position in the global market.