GCash, the country's widely used finance super app, celebrated 20 years of transforming everyday lives of Filipinos at its GCash 20th Anniversary Gala on October 10 at the Manila Marriott Grand Ballroom. The star-studded celebration brought together GCash executives, partners, and stakeholders, and GCash ambassadors who have been part of GCash's incredible two-decade journey.
Hosted by fan-favorites multi-awarded TV Host Robi Domingo and MMFF 2023 Best Supporting Actress Jervi Wrightson, also known as KaladKaren, the anniversary gala was a "Celebration Para Sa Lahat" – honoring GCash trailblazing pioneers, whose vision and dedication 20 years ago laid the foundation for its growth and its more than 94 million active users whose loyalty has propelled the brand's success over the years.
A tribute to trailblazers, champions
The evening kicked off with electrifying performances from "Mr. Pure Energy" Gary Valenciano — who starred in GCash's first commercial in 2004 — and the sensational P-Pop Kings, SB19. Their dynamic acts set the tone for a night of celebration, marking GCash's impressive 20-year milestone.
GCash's visionary leaders took a moment to honor the early champions who helped shape digital finance in the Philippines.
Mynt Chairman and Globe Group President & CEO, Ernest Cu, said in his speech, "Globe's vision is truly to bring solutions and services to the Filipino people that will enhance and improve their daily lives, and we saw that the financial inclusion problem continued to remain unsolved."
He went on to emphasize the company's impact, adding, "It truly is very rare to see a product not only benefit its owners and shareholders, but also the people that it serves. And I think today, with what we're seeing today, financial inclusion has indeed arrived in the Philippines through GCash."
GCash President and CEO Martha Sazon followed to make a heartfelt tribute to the millions of GCash users, emphasizing GCash's continued mission of empowering every Filipino, "Together, we have been building this GCash story, focused on making Filipinos' everyday lives better. As we go into the next chapter of our story, our commitment to our purpose is stronger than ever. We are one with every Filipino on their journey towards financial health and wellness. With GCash they can thrive everyday, prepare for rainy days, and get ready for that beautiful one day!"
From its humble beginnings in digital transactions, GCash has grown into a full-fledged finance super app, empowering millions of Filipinos to spend, borrow, and grow their money. This impact was powerfully highlighted in a tribute video that moved the audience, featuring real-life stories from GCash's "Stories of Hope" series — such as Cocoy Rubio, a bartender-turned-entrepreneur; Ate Alma, who rebuilt her home through bayanihan; Turing Quinto, a drag queen supporting a family of nine; and para-athlete champion Adeline "Adz" Dumapong.
The night reached its peak with a powerful finale by Bituin Escalante, Morissette, SB19's Stell, and Gary Valenciano, all backed by the internationally renowned Manila Philharmonic Orchestra under Maestro Louie Ocampo. Their show-stopping number perfectly captured the essence of GCash's 20-year journey — bold, inspiring, and unforgettable. As the music swelled, GCash's leaders and guests raised their glasses in a celebratory toast, marking two decades of innovation and empowerment, while looking ahead to the exciting possibilities and innovations still to come.
GCash's celebration does not end with the gala. As it continues to mark its 20th anniversary, there's even more to look forward to this whole month of October. With exciting promos, giveaways, and events lined up, the festivities are just beginning. Stay tuned as GCash celebrates its two-decade journey of innovation and financial inclusion, with more surprises coming your way.