Manila, Philippines – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has introduced a new program to equip Filipino businesses with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in the digital age. The Online Negosyo Program (ONP) offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, from building a strong online presence to harnessing the power of technology. Building a Strong Online PresenceThe ONP provides businesses with guidance on creating a professional website that effectively showcases their products or services. It covers essential elements such as website design, content creation, and search engine optimization (SEO) to ensure that the website is easily discoverable by potential customers. Mastering Digital MarketingThe program also delves into digital marketing strategies to help businesses reach and engage their target audience online. Topics include social media marketing, email marketing, content marketing, and paid advertising. Businesses will learn how to effectively utilize these channels to drive traffic to their websites and generate leads. Harnessing the Power of TechnologyIn addition to traditional marketing techniques, the ONP explores the potential of emerging technologies to enhance business operations. Topics include artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, and automation. Businesses will learn how to leverage these technologies to improve efficiency, personalize customer experiences, and gain valuable insights into market trends. Protecting Your Business OnlineThe program also emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity in the digital age. Businesses will learn about common cyber threats, best practices for data protection, and how to implement effective security measures to safeguard their online operations. Empowering Filipino EntrepreneursThe DTI believes that the ONP will play a crucial role in empowering Filipino entrepreneurs and fostering a more inclusive and dynamic e-commerce ecosystem. By providing businesses with the necessary skills and knowledge, the program can help drive economic growth and create new opportunities for entrepreneurs across the country.

Manila, Philippines (October 18, 2024) – In a groundbreaking move that could reshape the Philippine fintech landscape, Ayala Corporation, one of the country’s largest conglomerates, has partnered with Mitsubishi Corporation, a global Japanese trading company, to expand the reach and capabilities of GCash, the Philippines’ most popular e-wallet. Under the terms of the agreement, Mitsubishi will acquire a 50% stake in AC Ventures Holdings Corp., which owns a significant portion of Mynt, the fintech unicorn behind GCash. The transaction is valued at at least P18.4 billion, reflecting the immense potential of the e-wallet market in the Philippines. GCash: A Digital RevolutionGCash has rapidly become an integral part of the Filipino lifestyle, offering a wide range of financial services, including bill payments, mobile phone load, fund transfers, and online shopping. Its user-friendly interface and extensive network of partner merchants have made it a preferred choice for millions of Filipinos. The partnership with Mitsubishi Corporation marks a significant milestone for GCash. Mitsubishi brings a wealth of experience in financial services, technology, and global markets, which can complement Ayala’s deep understanding of the Philippine consumer. Together, they can accelerate GCash’s growth and innovation, expanding its services to new markets and demographics. Mitsubishi Corporation: A Global PowerhouseMitsubishi Corporation is a global trading company with a long history of successful business ventures. Its diverse portfolio includes energy, materials, industrial machinery, chemicals, and consumer products. The company has a strong presence in Asia, Europe, and the Americas, making it an ideal partner for GCash’s international expansion. By investing in GCash, Mitsubishi is tapping into the growing fintech market in Southeast Asia, a region with a large and increasingly tech-savvy population. The partnership aligns with Mitsubishi’s strategy of investing in high-growth sectors and emerging markets. The Future of Fintech in the PhilippinesThe Ayala-Mitsubishi partnership has the potential to transform the fintech landscape in the Philippines. By combining their strengths, the two companies can drive innovation, improve financial inclusion, and create new opportunities for businesses and consumers. As GCash continues to grow and evolve, it is poised to play a central role in the country’s digital economy. The partnership with Mitsubishi Corporation is a testament to its potential and the confidence that investors have in its future.