MANILA, Philippines — GCash has rolled out a suite of financial relief measures designed to make everyday transactions more affordable for Filipinos navigating the current economic strain. The initiatives—which include waived remittance fees for the Middle East, free health insurance, and significant transport discounts—come as a response to rising fuel costs and the ongoing geopolitical conflict in the Middle East.
These programs underscore the fintech giant’s commitment to inclusive finance, providing a safety net for both local users and the overseas Filipino community.
Recognizing the impact of regional tensions on Filipino workers abroad, GCash has extended its zero-fee program for Middle East transactions until April 30, 2026.
- Zero Fees: Transactions including bank transfers to the Philippines, GLoad, and GBills are free for users in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Israel, Lebanon, and Jordan.
- Automatic Cashback: Waived fees are automatically credited back to the user’s GCash wallet via in-app cashback; no registration is required.
- Free Remittances: Users in the Philippines can also send money to loved ones in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman for free via GCash International Transfer.
Closer to home, GCash is addressing the rising cost of living with value-added services for daily needs:
- Free Health Insurance with GLoad: Every time a user buys load for themselves via GLoad, they receive free health insurance underwritten by FPG Insurance. This includes up to ₱30,000 in accidental death coverage, income assistance for hospitalization, and disablement benefits.
- 50% MRT-3 Discount: In line with a DOTr mandate to provide relief from inflation, commuters using GCash (via Commute QR, NFC Tap to Pay, or Visa Card) receive a 50 percent discount on MRT-3 fares.
- Free Offline Cash-In: To help drivers and commuters affected by fuel price hikes, GCash offers free over-the-counter cash-in of up to ₱8,000 per month at thousands of partner outlets, including Puregold, Palawan Pawnshop, SM, and MRT stations.
Beyond these temporary relief measures, GCash continues to expand its GInsure marketplace, offering dedicated health and accident coverage starting as low as ₱15 to ₱69 per month.
“The goal is simple: to make everyday transactions more affordable, accessible, and seamless for Filipinos,” the company stated. GCash officials added that they will continue to monitor global developments and assess the need for further extensions of these financial aid programs.