BY ALEX ALAGON
GoTyme Bank, the fastest-growing bank in the Philippines, marks its third anniversary by celebrating its rapid success and deep commitment to inclusive, human-centric financial services. Since its launch, GoTyme Bank has redefined the retail banking landscape, attracting over 7.8 million customers who trust the bank to handle their everyday financial needs. The milestone is themed “Beautiful and Beyond,” spotlighting three core pillars that have made GoTyme Bank a success: people, shared experiences, and a clear vision and plan for the future.
Beyond banking, GoTyme Bank celebrates people
GoTyme Bank’s growth is anchored in strong community and partnership building. The bank attributes its success to its network of retail allies, including Robinsons Retail and SM Retail, along with key merchant partners like Foodpanda, PayMongo, and TikTok Shop, which have expanded the bank’s reach and utility.
In terms of community building, a core focus has been supporting Filipino talent through the Team GoTyme Bank campaign, which highlights the support systems behind game-changers across various sports. This celebrated roster includes motorsport phenom Bianca Bustamante, professional golfers Sean Ramos and Sara Eggesvik, football star Sandro Reyes, and triathlete Kira Ellis. Furthermore, the bank actively fuels grassroots development through partnerships with the Arayat Athletics Academy and its strong affiliation with the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) as its official bank partner.
Banking big on inclusivity and shared experiences
GoTyme Bank has prioritized accessibility and convenience, making financial services fit seamlessly into daily life. The bank’s commitment to inclusion is visible through its expansive physical footprint, which includes nearly 600 self-service kiosks and ATMs, supported by over 1,000 banking ambassadors nationwide. Customers benefit from deposit and withdrawal services at over 1,450 retail partner locations, including Robinsons Supermarket, Robinsons Easymart, The Marketplace, Shopwise, No Brand, Handyman, and Southstar Drug. Banking is also made easier with 20x free InstaPay transfers to other banks every month, all backed by 24/7 human support through the award-winning GoHuman Experience.
This year’s celebration extends to the community through cultural activations. This month, the bank surprised commuters with the “Freedom Bus Activation,” offering free rides and self-care kits on the Robinsons Antipolo to One Ayala route, featuring a surprise appearance by JG Summit Holdings President & CEO, Lance Y. Gokongwei and actress Carla Abellana.
For football fans, GoTyme Bank is elevating national pride by backing elite experiences, including the GoTyme Bank Match Up international friendly between the Philippine Women’s National Team (Filipinas) and Uzbekistan last Oct 29 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Culture and fashion enthusiasts can also enjoy the limited-edition, co-branded PFF x GoTyme Bank streetwear jerseys designed by Syndrome, while foodies can grab “The Bleu Job,” a limited-edition bleu cheese pizza collaboration with Jabroni’s NYC Pizza.
Gearing up for what’s next beyond banking
GoTyme Bank is not slowing down. Its mission remains focused on becoming the most loved and biggest retail bank in the Philippines. The bank is teasing an exciting pipeline of new features and financial tools designed to offer customers more financial flexibility, smarter money moves, and new ways to grow their wealth.
“Three years ago, we set out to make banking inclusive, secure, and truly made for people. We wanted to create a bank that fits into everyday life—one our customers could rely on,” said Nate Clarke, CEO of GoTyme Bank. “Today, over 7.8 million Filipinos have trusted GoTyme Bank, making us the fastest-growing bank in the country. As we celebrate this milestone, I’m grateful to our team, our partners, and every customer who believes in our promise of Banking Made Beautiful: simple, thoughtful, and empowering at every step. Our next chapter is about staying close to our customers and showing up with heart and innovation where it matters most.”
This year, GoTyme Bank is introducing feature enhancements that make banking simpler and more rewarding, including an expanded MoreTyme Pay-in-12 installment option with fee cashback and 20 free InstaPay transfers every month.
GoTyme Bank remains committed to banking beautifully with heart, innovation, and purpose as it begins its next phase of growth.
Globe continues to deliver critical support to communities affected by Typhoon Tino, with accelerated restoration efforts across the Visayas and Mindanao. The company has deployed technical teams, activated Libreng Tawag and Libreng Charging (LTLC) stations, and is preparing for wider relief operations in severely impacted areas.
Globe services have been fully restored in the hardest-hit areas of Dinagat Islands and Surigao del Norte in Mindanao. In the Visayas, Aklan, Antique, Biliran, Bohol, Capiz, Eastern Samar, Guimaras, Northern Samar, and Siquijor have also achieved 100% network restoration. Ongoing restoration continues in the hardest-hit provinces of Cebu, Leyte, and Negros Occidental, where Globe teams remain deployed to expedite full recovery.
Relief Operations
In partnership with Ayala Foundation Inc. (AFI) through Brigadang Ayala, Globe has begun relief efforts for affected communities. The first batches of food assistance include 500 food packs distributed to Barangay Dumlog in Talisay City and another 500 food packs delivered to Barangay Bonbon in Cebu City, both in coordination with local government partners.
Additional relief deployments are being coordinated with local government units and partner organizations to reach more families in need across the Visayas and Mindanao.
Libreng Tawag, Libreng Charging, and Libreng WiFi (LTLCW) Sites Activated
To support residents in these high-impact communities, Globe activated the following LTLCW sites to provide free calls, device charging, and WiFi access:
- Brgy. Bacayan Gym, Cebu City, Cebu
November 5 to 7, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Libreng Tawag and Wifi)
- Poblacion, Tolosa, Leyte
November 5 to 7, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Libreng Tawag and Wifi) - Visayas State University (VSU), Baybay City, Leyte
November 5 to 7, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Libreng Tawag and Wifi) - Brgy. Handumanan Gym, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental
November 5 to 7, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Libreng Charging only) - Chapel of Phase 1, Villa Leyson, Bacayan, Cebu City, Cebu
November 6 to 8, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Libreng Tawag, Charging, and WiFi) - Talisay City National High School, Talisay City, Cebu
November 6 to 8, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Libreng Tawag, Charging, and WiFi) - Lobby, Consolacion Municipal Bldg, Consolacion, Cebu
November 6 to 8, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Libreng Tawag, Charging, and WiFi) - Chapel of Phase 1, Villa Leyson, Bacayan, Cebu City, Cebu
November 6 to 8, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Libreng Tawag, Charging, and WiFi) - Brgy. Estefania Barangay Hall, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental
November 6 to 8, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Libreng Charging only) - Ayungon Municipal Hall, Ayungon, Negros Oriental
November 5 to 8, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Libreng Charging only)
Alagang Globe: Typhoon Tino Response and Relief Efforts
To help affected customers stay connected and supported, Globe has extended its Alagang Globe initiatives across the provinces of Antique, Biliran, Bohol, Cebu, Eastern Samar, Iloilo, Leyte, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Southern Leyte in the Visayas, as well as Dinagat Islands and Surigao del Norte in Mindanao.
Donations for Disaster Relief – Customers can donate their Globe Rewards points or via GCash to Rise Against Hunger Philippines to fund meal packs and relief aid for affected families.
Globe Prepaid and TM – Free unlimited calls and texts to all networks, plus 100MB for all apps and 100MB for Facebook and Viber for one day.
Globe Postpaid and GFiber Postpaid – Extended payment due dates for affected areas.
Globe At Home Prepaid WiFi – Free 5GB open access data for three days for eligible users.
GFiber Prepaid – Promo extension for three days in affected areas.
Donations for Disaster Relief – Customers can donate their Globe Rewards points or via GCash to Rise Against Hunger Philippines to fund meal packs and relief aid for affected families.
Globe assures the public of its continuing presence and readiness to respond in partnership with local government units and humanitarian organizations.
Further updates will be shared through GlobeICON social media pages as the situation develops.
Continuing Aboitiz Foundation’s support for communities following recent earthquake response
Aboitiz Foundation, together with the Aboitiz business units under the OneAboitiz initiative, has mobilized relief and recovery operations for communities affected by Typhoon Tino across Cebu and other parts of Visayas and Mindanao. The coordinated effort builds on the Foundation’s continuing commitment to help families still recovering from the impact of the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Cebu last September.
In partnership with local government units and the Aboitiz business units — including Aboitiz InfraCapital Water, Visayan Electric, AboitizPower Transition Business Group, Aboitiz Renewables Inc., Aboitiz Land, Aboitiz Economic Estates (Cebu), Aboitiz Foods and Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz— Aboitiz Foundation has distributed over 7,200 food packs and non-food items, and 158,000 liters of water. The total value of assistance has reached over P3 million, benefiting over 12,500 families across affected communities in Cebu, Bohol, Negros Occidental, Iloilo, and Dinagat Islands. “Our collective action shows what OneAboitiz is all about — standing together for our people and our communities,” said Sabin M. Aboitiz, Chairman of the Aboitiz Foundation. “These floods remind us that while we can’t control nature, we can control how we respond — with compassion, courage, and care. Let’s look out for one another, not just today but through the recovery that follows.”
Relief distributions began on November 5 and continue this week, with support extending to areas such as Cebu City, Mandaue, Liloan, Toledo, Talisay, and Balamban, among others. Aboitiz InfraCapital Water provided potable water to the affected communities while AboitizPower distribution utilities– including Visayan Electric, Davao Light and Cotabato Light teams– are actively restoring power lines.
by Typhoon Tino.
“This is part of our long-term commitment to help communities not only recover but also become more resilient,” said Aboitiz Foundation President Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar. “Our recent earthquake response and now the typhoon efforts show that we stand by our partners through every crisis — together as OneAboitiz.”
Aboitiz Foundation continues to coordinate with local government units and other partners to ensure timely aid delivery and recovery support in the coming weeks.
FORTY village chairpersons will undergo a seminar as the next step in the City Council’s plan to rename the 40 Poblacion barangays from current numbers and letters to something easier to remember.
The office of the proponent councilor J. Melchor Quitain Jr. called the meeting to ensure a smooth process as part of the proposed ordinance renaming the numerically designated 40 barangays under the First Congressional District.
The Davao City Culture and the Arts Office (DCCAO) was tasked to conduct the seminar, scheduled on Nov. 12, 2025, at the Sangguniang Panlungsod Building.
In an earlier interview, DCCAO head Oscar Casaysay lauded the initiative to rename barangays, but they should consider cultural and historical landmarks in the process.
Quitain emphasized that while there is a need for a plebiscite to officially rename barangays, the Sanguniang Barangay should list options and consult with the National Historical Commission in line with Section 11 of the Local Government Code.
A series of consultative meetings were held, with the latest on Sept. 25, gathering stakeholders such as the Commission on Elections, Department of Interior and Local Government, City Legal Office, and the Barangay and Cultural Communities Affairs Division.
Netizens also lauded the initiative to rename the barangays, including Reynaldo Al-ag, who commented: “I totally agree, very good idea by Hon. Quitain. It’s really hard to locate the place or barangay if numbers are being used.”
Hares Meadow also commented: “And dapat those barangays are named after Davao City’s culture and heritage.”
User Naprey Almario chimed in: “Its about time. Kapoy na kaayo sige butang og landmark just so makatuod ang gitultulan.”
Under the first congressional district, there are 40 barangays in Poblacion namely: 1-A, 2-A, 3-A, 4-A, 5-A, 6-A, 7-A, 8-A, 9-A, 10-A, 11-B, 12-B, 13-B, 14-B, 15-B, 16-B, 17-B, 18-B, 19-B, 20-B, 21-C, 22-C, 23-C, 24-C, 25-C, 26-C, 27-C, 28-C, 29-C, 30-C, 31-D, 32-D, 33-D, 34-D, 35-D, 36-D, 37-D, 38-D, 39-D, and 40-D.
THE TACTICAL Operations Wing Eastern Mindanao held a departure honors ceremony at the Davao Air Station for Pararescue Jumper Sgt. Yves B. Sijub, on Thursday, Nov. 6, to recognize his courage and service to the nation.
Leading the tribute were BGen Romeo Jerome M Dirilo, wing commander, TOWEASTMIN; Col Ryan Reynie P Sonza, deputy wing commander, TOWEASTMIN; and Col Darwin G. Catibog, group commander, TOG XI, in the presence of the bereaved family of the fallen airman.
The ceremony served as a sincere gesture of respect and gratitude to the late airman, whose unwavering commitment and bravery exemplified the finest ideals of military service. His heroism and dedication continue to inspire his comrades and the Filipino people as they honor his memory and lasting legacy.
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has begun rendering departure honors for the six aircrew members who tragically perished in the Super Huey helicopter crash in Loreto, Agusan del Sur, on Nov. 4, 2025, while conducting a humanitarian mission following Typhoon Tino.
The remains of all six airmen were retrieved and transported to Davao City on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025, for forensic processing before being sent to their respective families.
Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) spokesperson Lt. Col. Salvacion Evangelista confirmed on Wednesday afternoon that the six cadavers arrived at the Tactical Operations Wing Eastern Mindanao (TOWEASTMIN) in Old Airport, Sasa, at 2:55 p.m.
“The cadavers have arrived in Davao City for autopsy and forensics,” Evangelista stated, noting that the bodies still need to be processed and placed in caskets before the official send-off.
Evangelista also noted a priority for one victim: “Out of the six cadavers, one is Muslim. If identified, that will be the first one to be sent off so they can be immediately brought to the family in Zamboanga in observance of their religious belief.”
The fallen heroes
The Philippine Air Force officially released the identities of the brave airmen who lost their lives while conducting Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) operations:
Pilots: Captain Paulie B. Dumagan and Second Lieutenant Royce Louis G. Camigla
Aircrew: Sergeant Yves B. Sijub; Sergeant John Christopher C. Golfo; Airman First Class Ericson R. Merico; and Airman Ameer Khaidar T. Apion.
The PAF extended its deepest sympathies, stating that the airmen’s “heroism, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to duty stand as a lasting testament to the noble ideals of the service.”
Manila, Philippines — McDonald’s Philippines triumphed at this year’s People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) Awards as it bagged the coveted Employer of the Year Award, given to a company showing exceptional business and people management practices.
McDonald’s, which was the unanimous choice, bested some of the country’s most esteemed companies, meeting the awards’ criteria for a purpose-driven organization that puts its people-first philosophies, principles, and values at the core of its operations.
Aside from winning top honors, the quick service restaurant (QSR) giant was also one of the companies given the Exemplar Status for the National Capital Region.
McDonald’s President and CEO Kenneth Yang received the award during the PMAP annual conference held recently in NUSTAR, Cebu City. PMAP is the country’s premier organization for human resource practitioners and people managers.
“This recognition fuels our commitment to our purpose: lighting the way to brighter opportunities for our people and the communities we serve,” said Yang. “Though I accepted the award onstage, the honor truly belongs to close to 1 million Filipinos who have become and are part of the McFamily.”
He added: “McDonald’s Philippines is part of a world-class brand, proudly rooted in the Filipino spirit. Today, we stand as the largest market in Southeast Asia, and the 10th largest globally. Our scale is more than a number—it’s a responsibility. It empowers us to serve communities, create opportunities, and support nation building.”
Every new McDonald’s store translates to 80 to 100 new jobs, driven by the company’s commitment to supporting economic activity on the local and national levels and providing employment opportunities through inclusive and diverse hiring practices.
Since Chairman and Founder Dr. George T. Yang opened the first McDonald’s store in the country in 1981, the company has upheld the practice of direct hiring and non-contractualization, setting it apart from QSRs in the country.
Earlier this year, McDonald’s Philippines owners Dr. George T. Yang and Kenneth S. Yang secured a new-term license to operate McDonald’s in the country for the next 20 years—a strong vote of confidence for their leadership and stewardship of the brand. The new-term license also came at a time of accelerated growth, with the company opening and operating stores in virtually all provinces in the country, bringing the McDonald’s experience closer to every Filipino.
At present, McDonald’s operates over 800 stores all over the country, and has a workforce of about 70,000 individuals, 70 percent of whom are working students. With the help of flexible work hours, they can continue pursuing their studies while also gaining significant work experience.
The company provides a world-class training program, on par with the global standards upheld by McDonald’s Corporation. Covering various aspects of restaurant operations and even beyond, the training provided by the company allows employees to succeed not just in the company, but also in other professional fields.
Said Yang: “Since opening our first store in 1981, we’ve contributed to economic growth and have provided employment and business opportunities for our franchisees, partner suppliers, and the communities we serve. We remain committed to lighting up more Golden Arches—and more opportunities—for generations to come.”
THE SOCIAL Security System (SSS) announced that its members in Cebu affected by Typhoon Tino may avail of the Calamity Loan Program (CLP) starting Nov. 6, 2025, up to Dec. 5, 2025, providing immediate financial relief as recovery efforts continue across the province.
SSS president and CEO Robert Joseph Montes de Claro said that the CLP provides qualified SSS members in Cebu with immediate access to emergency funds for their essential needs in tandem with recovery efforts undertaken by the national and local government.
“We understand how life-changing the devastation brought by Typhoon Tino is to workers and their families in Cebu. Our priority is to provide immediate, accessible support to help them get back on their feet,” De Claro said.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has placed all 53 cities and municipalities in Cebu under a state of calamity after Tropical Cyclone Tino struck the province last 4 November 2025.
NDRRMC estimates show more than 200,000 families and 700,000 individuals were affected, with more than 200,000 pre-emptively evacuated and more than 400,000 displaced.
CLP terms and eligibility
Under the CLP, qualified members may borrow up to P20,000 at 7% interest rate with a repayment period of 24 months. Applications can be submitted online via My.SSS facility.
De Claro said that once approved, loan proceeds will be credited directly to their enrolled disbursement account.
Major qualification requirements are:
- Residing or working in an area declared under the State of Calamity;
- Have at least 36 monthly contributions – six of these must be posted within 12 months preceding the month of filing. Individually paying members must have paid at least six contributions under their current membership type;
- Have an online account with SSS (My.SSS) to file an online application;
- No past due loan accounts and no outstanding restructured loans;
- Not have been granted any final benefit;
- Of legal age and under 65 years of age at the time of the loan application; and
- Have not been disqualified due to fraud committed against the SSS.
In addition, SSS also activated a separate CLP for members who were affected by Tropical Storm Ramil in Roxas City and in the Municipality of Sigma in Capiz. Qualified SSS members who live or work in these areas may apply for a calamity loan from Nov. 5, 2025, to Dec. 4, 2025.
De Claro emphasized that calamity loans act as a bridge for affected members to tide them over and hasten recovery.
THE NATIONAL Bureau of Investigation Southeastern Mindanao Regional Office (NBI-Semro) has dismantled an illegal backyard operation involved in the unauthorized refilling and trademark infringement of butane and LPG products at Old Airport, Sasa, on Nov. 4.
The operation resulted in the arrest of two individuals, identified in the report as alias Jeson and alias Ronel.
The NBI-Semro, in coordination with NBI-Davao City, served an entrapment operation based on a complaint filed by Ronnel regarding the illegal refilling of Trippler Butane Canisters.
The report indicates that the suspects were allegedly involved in the unauthorized production and refilling of the butane canisters, along with other LPG-related materials.
The operation yielded a substantial volume of illegally produced and refilled products, along with equipment used in the operation, including Trippler Butane Canisters: 510 pieces, assorted butane canisters: 93 pieces, LPG Products (RCG, R-Cal, Petron Gasul), with multiple units weighing 50kg and 11kg.
Also recovered were precision scales, electronic pricing/weighing scales, and two Powerkalan Prycegas units, and 10 pieces of assorted fake Trippler Butane caps.
The arrested individuals are now facing criminal charges for multiple alleged violations, including violation of Section 155 of R.A. 8293 (Trademark Infringement) for the illegal use of the Trippler Butane brand; Section 168 of R.A. 8293 (Intellectual Property Code) related to unauthorized refilling and production; violation of Sec 40, Par C of R.A. 9513 (The New Law on LPG).
Photo courtesy of PTV Davao
THE DAVAO City Police Office (DCPO) mourns with deep sorrow the tragic loss of six gallant members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines who perished in the helicopter crash in Loreto, Agusan del Sur.
On behalf of the men and women of DCPO, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and comrades of our fallen soldiers.
Muarip said, “Their dedication, courage, and unwavering commitment to serve the nation, even in the face of danger, embody the true spirit of patriotism and selfless service.”
“Their passing is a profound reminder of the risks our uniformed men and women face in the fulfillment of their sworn duty to protect the peace and security of our people. We honor their bravery and sacrifice — heroes who have paid the ultimate price in service to our country,” Col Muarip added.
As we grieve this painful loss, we stand in solidarity with our brothers-in-arms in the Armed Forces of the Philippines during this difficult time. Their valor will forever be remembered, and their legacy will continue to inspire us in our pursuit of peace and public safety.
“May their souls rest in eternal peace, and may their courage live on in the hearts of those they have left behind.”
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