The Wednesday Herald

08/10/2025

A second life, a stronger mission:
Gov. Aragones’ untold battle and renewed commitment to Laguna in her first 100 days
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/a-second-life-a-stronger-mission/

By Roselle R. Aquino

Sta. Cruz, Laguna – Few people knew the struggle she endured behind her calm smile and tireless public service. Before she marked her first 100 days in office, Governor Sol Aragones quietly fought one of the toughest battles of her life — a health scare that tested her strength, faith, and sense of purpose.

During her hospitalization a few months ago, doctors discovered a large lump above her chest. In that moment, she recalled, her world seemed to collapse.

“The first thing that came to my mind was, what about my child — if this turns out to be cancer? What about my parents? And third, what about Laguna?” Aragones said emotionally.

The thought of leaving behind her child, her parents, and the province she had sworn to serve filled her with fear and uncertainty.

“What will happen to the people hoping for a proper hospital in the province of Laguna? What about those depending on free maintenance medicine?” she asked herself.

In that moment of weakness, she turned to prayer — asking the Lord to grant her strength, not just for herself, but for the Lagunenses who depend on her leadership.

And as she said, “The Lord is truly kind.”

The medical findings later showed that the chances of the lump being cancerous were very low.

On the same day she was examined, she immediately underwent surgery.

She spent only one night in recovery before insisting on returning to work.

“Tomorrow, I will go back to the Capitol. Tomorrow, I will continue the promises I made to my people.” True to her word, she resumed her hospital visits the very next day.

That experience became a turning point in her life — one that deepened her faith and strengthened her resolve to serve.

“To me, being a governor is not about wealth or power; it is a mission to help the people of Laguna live better lives,” she said.

Following her recovery, Governor Sol immediately resumed her visits to district hospitals, addressing their most urgent needs and ensuring that healthcare services continue to improve across the province.

Now, as she continues her journey of leadership beyond her first 100 days in office, Governor Sol Aragones carries with her not only the lessons of governance but also the profound realization that life, leadership, and faith are deeply intertwined.

For her, this “second life” is a renewed calling — to serve with gratitude, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the people of Laguna.

Gov. Aragones’ untold battle and renewed commitment to Laguna in her first 100 days By Roselle R. Aquino Sta. Cruz, Laguna – Few people knew the struggle she endured behind her calm smile and tireless public service. Before she marked her first 100 days in office, Governor Sol Aragones quietly f...

08/10/2025

The Wednesday HERALD (Oct. 8-14,
2025 issue)
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/october-8-14-2025-issue-vol-44-no-47/

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02/10/2025

SSS launches EMV-equipped, dual-function MySSS Card
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/sss-launches-emv-equipped-dual-function-mysss-card/

In response to the 8 September 2025 directive issued by Department of Finance Secretary and Social Security Commission ex-officio Chair Ralph G. Recto to roll out faster services to pensioners and members, the Social Security System (SSS) has officially launched the MySSS Card – designed to transform the way Filipino workers, pensioners, and their beneficiaries access their social security benefits and financial services.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph Montes De Claro stated that the MySSS Card fulfills two purposes. It acts as an official ID, replacing the long-standing Unified Multi-Purpose Identification (UMID) card. It also operates as a fully functional debit card linked to a savings account.

De Claro noted that the card is equipped with an EMV chip. It is integrated with the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) eVerify and biometric authentication. This provides a safe and convenient way for members to access SSS benefits and loans, as well as manage their daily financial transactions.

It merges social security benefits with digital banking, offering members a comprehensive way to access benefits, loans, and pensions quickly and conveniently. The card can also be used for shopping, public transport fares, and online purchases, De Claro explained.

The card will be issued exclusively through SSS partner banks. Issuance will start with Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) and will later include other banks such as Asia United Bank (AUB), China Bank, and Union Bank of the Philippines.

De Claro said the MySSS Card will automatically serve as the main disbursement account for SSS members. "Once members apply for the MySSS Card, we will link their partner bank savings accounts to SSS for benefits, loans, and other proceeds. They no longer need to enroll the MySSS Card in the Disbursement Account Enrollment Module (DAEM)."

He stated that starting today, 1 October 2025, SSS will accept applications for the MySSS Card. RCBC, through its digital arm DiskarTech, will be the card’s first implementer.

"The SSS and RCBC partnership marks a significant milestone in the digital transformation of government services," he continued. "The MySSS Card’s rollout will expand as more partner banks join the program. This will provide more options for card issuance and banking features."

How to Apply for the MySSS Card

The MySSS Card is available to all SSS members, pensioners, individual claimants, beneficiaries, and representative payees who meet the following requirements:

Possess a permanent SS number;

Have an active account on the My.SSS Portal with updated personal details, including local address, mobile number, and email; and

Be registered with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) under the National ID system, previously known as the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys).

Members with old SSS, UMID, or previous ID cards may apply for the MySSS Card to replace lost or existing cards.

De Claro said the MySSS Card application is simple and can be completed via My.SSS. "Members choose their partner bank—initially RCBC—and consent to data sharing between SSS, the National ID system, and the bank."

After online verification and identity confirmation, members open a bank account either using their online app or by visiting a branch. For RCBC, members use the DiskarTech app to open the account.

The partner bank will produce and distribute the cards. Metro Manila residents will receive their cards within 15 working days, while those outside Metro Manila will receive theirs within 20 working days.

He concluded that launching the MySSS Card is part of a larger government push. This initiative is led by Finance Secretary and Social Security Commission ex-officio Chair Recto, who has championed reforms within the SSS to enhance its service delivery.

 In response to the 8 September 2025 directive issued by Department of Finance Secretary and Social Security Commission ex-officio Chair Ralph G. Recto to roll out faster services to pensioners and members, the Social Security System (SSS) has officially launched the MySSS Card – designed to tran...

30/09/2025

SSS Luzon South 1 bares accomplishments, enhanced services
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/sss-luzon-south-1-bares-accomplishments-enhanced-services/

by Vlad Asprec

SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna (Sep. 30, 2025) -- In its continued commitment in fulfilling its mandate of providing social security protection to members and beneficiaries, the Social Security System (SSS) South Luzon 1 held a press briefing on the agency’s accomplishments and enhanced programs and services.

Engr. Edwin Igharas, SSS South Luzon 1 Vice President, reported that their division has already collected almost P6 billion for the first 8 months of 2025 and expected to achieve this year’s goal of P10.1 billion.

He added that SSS South Luzon 1 had collected P507 million in delinquent remittances, way above their target of P135 million for 2025.

“This is because of our intensified effort to collect and ran after delinquent employers,” VP Igharas emphasized.

He reported that for the past 8 months, there had been 24,217 new members who are mostly those who belong to the employed sector. There are currently around 1.6 million members in SSS South Luzon 1 that comprises the provinces of Laguna, Quezon and Cavite.

With regard to the agency’s enhanced programs and services, VP Igharas reported that their E-Wheels has already conducted 470 services that benefited 50,000 clients which is more than their target of 10 per division per month or 80 services.

This E-Wheels program brings SSS services, including online transactions and assistance with My.SSS accounts, directly to communities, especially far-flung areas, through mobile offices equipped with internet connectivity.

Services include SS number issuance, My.SSS registration and password resetting, benefit claim applications, ACOP compliance, and general inquiries.

The goal is to increase access to SSS online services, expand coverage to the informal sector, and promote digital channels to members.

VP Igharas also noted the accomplishment of their RACE program or Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) that targets employers who are delinquent in remitting their employees' mandatory SSS contributions.

Out of 142 RACE operations, SSS South Luzon 1 has already collected P35 million wherein 134 out of 142 employers had either fully or partially paid their remittances.

VP Igharas said around 7,900 employees had so far benefited from this program.

Other enhance services of SSS include the following

• Pension Reform Program. Starting in September 2025, this is a three-year, multi-year pension increase with a 10% hike for retirement and disability pensioners and a 5% increase for survivor pensioner. The program is designed to provide financial uplift to pensioners without requiring an increase in contributions.

• Calamity Loan Program that reduces interest rates for calamity loans to 7% per annum from the current rate of 10% and the salary loans to 8% per annum from the previous 10%.

Also reported is the SSS Loan Lite Program that offers short-term loans with tenors ranging from 15 to 90 days, tailored to meet the urgent financial needs of Filipino workers, including Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

Meanwhile, there will be a new MySSS Card that will serve as a valid-government issued functional ID card, replacing the generic UMID and UMID Pay cards. It will also serve as the default disbursement account for the applicant’s SSS benefits, loans and refunds.

Joining the press briefing are SSS Santa Cruz Laguna Branch Head Eleanor Ebreo, San Pablo Branch Head Lilian Brucal and Rosario Cavite Branch Head Monica P. Dino.

by Vlad Asprec SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna (Sep. 30, 2025) -- In its continued commitment in fulfilling its mandate of

30/09/2025

DSWD extends ₱4.99-M aid to Calabarzon families affected by ‘Opong’
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/dswd-extends-%e2%82%b14-99-m-aid-to-calabarzon-families-affected-by-opong/

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna— The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) continues to provide support to local government units affected by recent severe weather disturbances, with more than ₱4.99 million worth of assistance already extended to affected families in the region.
According to DSWD IV-A, a total of 24,814 families have been affected in Calabarzon by Typhoon Opong, as well as previous weather disturbances Mirasol, Nando, and the southwest monsoon.
Of these, more than 16,000 families remain in 795 evacuation centers across the region, most of which are located in Quezon province.
In Laguna, over 300 families received family food packs during a distribution activity held in Sta. Rosa City on September 27, 2025. These families, who are currently staying at the evacuation center in Barangay Sinalhan, were displaced from their homes due to Typhoon Opong.
The food packs are part of the more than ₱800,000 worth of assistance provided by the DSWD to Sta. Rosa City.
According to the local government’s report to DSWD Field Office IV-A, more than 1,000 families were affected by the recent typhoon in the city as of 4:00 PM, September 27, 2025.
The agency assured that it will continue working with local government units to address the urgent needs of affected families, especially those still staying in evacuation centers.
The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Calabarzon is currently assessing the impacts of Typhoon Opong in the region.

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna— The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) continues to provide support to local government units affected by recent severe weather disturbances, with more than ₱4.99 million worth of assistance already extended to affected families in the region. According to...

23/09/2025

Laguna Quick Response Team ramps up relief, rescue ahead of calamities
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/laguna-quick-response-team-ramps-up-relief-rescue-ahead-of-calamities/

By Roselle R. Aquino

STA. CRUZ, Laguna — With disaster preparedness at the forefront, Governor Sol Aragones led the province’s Quick Response Team in a large-scale mobilization at the Laguna Sports Complex this week.

The initiative focused on the repacking of food supplies, readiness of rescue vehicles, and assurance of medical response capabilities in anticipation of potential emergencies brought by natural calamities.
Aragones, personally supervising the operations, underscored the value of readiness as a proactive measure. “It’s always better to be one step ahead,” she said. “Preparedness means saving lives. That’s why we make sure relief goods are ready, vehicles are on standby, and our medical teams are equipped. My phone is open 24 hours to anyone in need.”
The activity saw the collaboration of the provincial government, the Akay ni Gob Action Center, and volunteers who worked side by side in packing rice, canned goods, instant noodles, and other essentials that could be quickly distributed to affected families.
“As part of the Quick Response Team, we gathered early to demonstrate our readiness,” said Doland Castro of Akay ni Gob, whose team spearheaded the packing operations. “This effort shows that every individual here is committed to immediate response and assistance when the need arises.”
Aragones also highlighted that the scope of preparedness extends beyond food supplies. “The rescue vehicles are ready. The ambulances are also being prepared,” she explained. “We want to assure Lagunenses that when the time comes, mobility, rescue, and medical aid will all be in place.”
Danny Lucas, head of the Provincial Public Information Office, emphasized the importance of timely communication alongside logistical preparations.
“Information is as crucial as relief goods,” Lucas said. “In times of calamity, accurate and fast communication can save lives. That’s why our office ensures that updates reach the people immediately, and that they know where to seek help and how to stay safe.”
Lucas further added that Aragones has been consistent in making disaster response both proactive and people-centered. “Governor Sol always tells us that preparedness is not just about systems, but about people. We need to make sure every Lagunense feels that the government is ready to respond,” he said.
As the relief operations continue, Aragones expressed her hope that the province would be spared from major disasters but reiterated the importance of vigilance.
“Preparedness is always the wiser course. Let us also unite in prayer, because prayer remains our strongest weapon against any storm,” she said.
The Quick Response Team, with the backing of various provincial agencies, assured the public that Laguna remains on alert and is ready to mobilize at the first sign of emergency.

By Roselle R. Aquino STA. CRUZ, Laguna — With disaster preparedness at the forefront, Governor Sol Aragones led the province’s Quick Response Team in a large-scale mobilization at the Laguna Sports Complex this week. The initiative focused on the repacking of food supplies, readiness of rescue v...

22/09/2025

Sowing Success
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/sowing-success/

by Edrian B. Banania
[email protected]

In Barangay San Jose, General Santos City, lives a man whose story proves that success is not born from wealth; it is grown through hard work, faith, and perseverance. Niño de Guzman, a vocational graduate, husband, and father of three, has transformed his humble beginnings into a thriving agribusiness that not only changed his life but also uplifted those around him.

His journey from a sari-sari store owner to a successful agripreneur is a story worth telling and one that is truly inspiring.

Humble Beginnings
Born into a family that relied on agriculture as its primary source of livelihood, Niño was raised with a deep respect for the land and the value of perseverance. From a young age, he was immersed in farming and fishing life, helping his parents and learning how to make a living from the soil and sea. These early experiences would ultimately shape his future.

Before fully committing to farming, Niño explored various livelihood opportunities. He sold fish and engaged in multiple income-generating activities to support his growing family. For two years, he worked at an automotive company while his wife managed their modest sari-sari store. However, it was always agriculture that drew him.

With a small dream and limited capital, Niño started a modest farming venture. Over time, that small seed blossomed into a thriving agribusiness focused on high-value crops such as asparagus, sweet and purple corn, and more.

“In doing business, it’s important to separate personal matters from business,” Niño shares, highlighting one of the key principles that helped him succeed.

Weathering the storms

Agriculture, while fulfilling, is not without its challenges. Natural calamities often pose threats to crops and disrupt operations. But Niño’s resilience shines in these moments. His approach is grounded in preparedness and smart financial management.

“In times of calamities, it is essential to have savings, so you have something to use when things get tough,” he advises.

Through a positive mindset and a commitment to sustainable farming practices, Niño has been able to sustain and grow his business even through adversity.

A crucial part of Niño’s growth was made possible with his six-year clientship with CARD SME Bank, a thrift bank under CARD MRI. With a modest loan of PHP 3,000, he reached a total of PHP 350,000, which he reinvested to improve operations and expand his agribusiness.

With the success of the business, his produce is distributed not only around General Santos City but also to markets in Cotabato, Davao, and even Manila. He now employs 15 workers and earns at least PHP 150,000 per month, a remarkable leap from where he began.

“We decided to stay consistent and committed to our business because we saw how it changed our lives,” Niño reflects.

With this support, he not only uplifted his own family but also created opportunities for others in his community.

Giving back to the community

Today, Niño is more than just a farmer; he is a changemaker. By employing local workers and partnering with small seed producers, he plays a vital role in strengthening the agricultural economy in his area.

“As a way of giving back, we support local seed producers by buying the seeds from them, and continue to provide jobs to the local community,” he says.

Looking ahead, Niño dreams of expanding his farm even further, with hopes of securing a comfortable retirement and a better future for his family. But more than that, he wants to continue planting seeds of opportunity for others that create a legacy rooted in service and success.

“To aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those starting from humble beginnings, if you don’t try, you will never see success in life. Despite life’s challenges, if you persevere, nothing is impossible,” he concluded.

by Edrian B. Banania [email protected] ADVERTISEMENT In Barangay San Jose, General Santos City, lives a man whose story proves that success is not born from wealth; it is grown through hard work, faith, and perseverance. Niño de Guzman, a vocational graduate, husband, and father of three, has ...

22/09/2025

CALABARZON RDRRMC, naka-red alert dahil sa Bagyong Nando
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/calabarzon-rdrrmc-naka-red-alert-dahil-sa-bagyong-nando/

By PIA CALABARZON

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (PIA) — Itinaas na sa red alert ang paghahanda ng Calabarzon Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) dahil sa banta ng Bagyong Nando ngayong Sabado, Setyembre 20.

Ayon kay Office of Civil Defense Calabarzon Regional Director at RDRRMC Chairperson Carlos Eduardo Alvarez III, ito ay upang masiguro ang maagap na pagtugon at koordinasyon ng mga ahensya ng gobyerno at mga lokal na panahalaan sa posibleng epekto ng bagyo.

Kabilang dito ang pagbaha, pagguho ng lupa, at paglikas ng mga residente sa mga maaapektuhang lugar.

Bagama’t hindi direktang tatama sa Calabarzon, inaasahang palalakasin ng bagyo ang Habagat na magdadala ng malalakas na hangin at pag-ulan sa rehiyon simula Setyembre 21 hanggang 22.

Kaugnay nito, binuksan din ng RDRRMC Calabarzon ang Virtual RDRRMC Emergency Operations Center nito para sa pag-monitor at mabilis na koordinasyon ng mga ahensiya ng gobyerno at local DRRMCs.

Nauna nang nagpalabas ng direktiba ang RDRRMC Calabarzon sa mga probinsya, lungsod, at bayan na maghanda ng mga evacuation center, mag-preposition ng relief goods, at tiyakin ang kaligtasan ng mga residenteng nasa high-risk areas.

Patuloy namang nananawagan ang RDRRMC sa lahat ng lokal na pamahalaan at mamamayan na manatiling alerto, sumunod sa mga abiso ng awtoridad, at maging handa para sa agarang paglikas kung kinakailangan.

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (PIA) — Itinaas na sa red alert ang paghahanda ng Calabarzon Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) dahil sa banta ng Bagyong Nando ngayong Sabado, Setyembre 20. Ayon kay Office of Civil Defense Calabarzon Regional Director at RDRRMC Chairperson Carlo...

19/09/2025

PhilHealth launches early detection healthcare package
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/philhealth-launches-early-detection-healthcare-package-in-laguna/

By Christopher Hedreyda

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (PIA) – The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) rolled out its newest healthcare program in Laguna to encourage workers to seek preventive consultations prior to acquiring sickness and diseases.

The Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) Para Malayo sa Sakit program is Philhealth’s enhanced disease prevention and early detection services under the Marcos administration’s Universal Health Care agenda.

The program, in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), was launched on Sept. 16 at the Yazaki-Torres Manufacturing Inc. in Calamba City.

Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said all employees, regardless of employment status, are entitled to the program as part of their right to social protection.

“Kailangan kahit na anong klaseng status ng empleyado ay dapat ma-cover siya ng mga programa na magbibigay ng proteksyon sa kanya. Kung may pangangailangan, dapat mabigyan siya ng tulong ng pamahalaan,” he said.

The labor chief added that YAKAP is one of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s priority initiatives in bringing government services closer to the grassroots.

“Sabi ni Presidente bumaba tayo at iparamdam na may serbisyo at programa ang gobyerno, lalo na para sa mga nangangailangan. Alam natin dito sa Region 4A, may mga lugar na kailangang maabot natin, lalo na ang mga Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA) communities, para maramdaman nila ang mga serbisyo ng pamahalaan,” Laguesma stressed.

For Kristine Joy Vivas, a Yazaki-Torres manufacturing employee, the YAKAP program ensures that workers have access to essential healthcare.

“Yung ganitong programa ay nagabibigay ng pagkakataon sa mga empleyado at kanilang pamilya na magkaroon ng access sa healthcare services. Given yung inflation at hindi naman sumasapat ang sahod, maganda na andyan ang PhilHealth na nagbibigay ng suporta. Tayong mga Pilipino ay makaka-avail ng healthcare services,” she shared.

PhilHealth Acting President and CEO Dr. Edwin Mercado was also present at the launch which was witnessed by Yazaki-Torres employees and officials and representatives from private companies and organizations.

Under the program, primary care services—including first-patient encounters, consultations, and diagnostic laboratory tests—will be covered with a maximum co-payment of ₱900.

Cancer screening tests are also included, such as mammogram, breast ultrasound, CT scan, alpha fetoprotein, liver ultrasound, and colonoscopy, subject to case-based rates.

Additionally, patients will be eligible for an annual subsidy of ₱20,000 for about 75 medicines under the PhilHealth GAMOT program. Covered medicines include those for infectious diseases, dyslipidemia, blood clot prevention, asthma, hypertension, diabetes, supportive care, and nervous system conditions.

PhilHealth members can avail of YAKAP benefits by registering at a designated YAKAP clinic or through the eGov PH app. Once registered, members may consult doctors, undergo laboratory or cancer screening tests, and receive prescriptions for medicines. (CH/PIA-Laguna)

By Christopher Hedreyda CALAMBA CITY, Laguna – The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) rolled out its newest healthcare program in Laguna to encourage workers to seek preventive consultations prior to acquiring sickness and diseases. The Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) Para Mal...

18/09/2025

SSS increases monthly senior pension
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/sss-increases-monthly-senior-pension/

By Anna Mole

SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna (PIA) – The Social Security System (SSS) South Luzon I Division marked its regional celebration of Pensioners’ Day in San Pablo City on September 12 by highlighting the agency’s pension reform program and the recent increase in monthly senior citizen pension benefits.

The event forms part of the 68th Anniversary of SSS, which highlights the agency’s commitment to recognizing the contributions of pensioners while ensuring they remain informed about new reforms and services.

SSS South Luzon I Vice President Engr. Edwin Igharas emphasized the importance of the annual celebration as a platform to engage with pensioners and address their concerns.

“This is our way of giving back to our pensioners who have been part of the system’s growth. We want to assure them that SSS continues to improve our programs for their benefit and we now have a SSS Pension Reform program where they can enjoy a 10 percent percent increase on their pension for three years from the government,” Igharas said.

SSS said that the reform is designed to strike a balance between providing adequate pensions to retirees and ensuring that future generations of members will continue to enjoy the same security.

64 year-old Benita Jonos Catahan of Nagcarlan, Laguna, expressed her appreciation for the reforms being implemented by the SSS which directly benefits her in easing financial burden amid rising healthcare costs and daily expenses.

“We are grateful for the 10 percent increase in our pension because us seniors already have maintenance. We already have many needs. This is additional help with our need to buy medicine, so thank you very much,” she said.

Other topics discussed during the program was the SSS Pension Reform Program, which seeks to secure the long-term sustainability of the Social Security Fund by introducing enhancements in benefits for members.

Participants were treated to a series of activities, including free health checks, financial literacy sessions, and forums where they could raise inquiries directly to SSS officials.

The SSS Pensioners’ Day is celebrated nationwide to recognize the contributions of retirees to nation-building and to keep them informed of programs that directly affect their welfare.

By Anna Mole SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna – The Social Security System (SSS) South Luzon I Division marked its regional celebration of Pensioners’ Day in San Pablo City on September 12 by highlighting the agency’s pension reform program and the recent increase in monthly senior citizen pension benef...

17/09/2025

The Wednesday HERALD (Sep. 17-23,
2025 issue)
https://thewednesdayherald.net/

09/09/2025

CARD Bank launches new konek2CARD on its 28th Anniversary
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/card-bank-launches-new-konek2card-on-its-28th-anniversary/

CARD Bank, a microfinance-oriented rural bank, marked its 28th anniversary with the launch of the new version of its mobile banking app, konek2CARD. The event was held in Brgy. Santisimo Rosario, San Pablo City, Laguna on September 1, 2025.

“It was right here in this barangay, where the digital community of CARD MRI began. That is why it holds a special place in our hearts,” CARD Bank President and CEO Ms. Marivic Austria reflected on how konek2CARD began in 2017.

She added, “This upgraded version of konek2CARD, with faster and improved features, is a symbol of the digital innovation we continuously develop for our clients. It is our way of making products and services more inclusive to everyone we serve.”

Aside from the Google Play Store, the new version of konek2CARD is now available on the Apple App Store and Huawei App Gallery, making the upgrade more accessible to all CARD MRI clients.

New features of konek2CARD

One of the key highlights of the new konek2CARD is its enhanced security feature, which utilizes biometrics. Users can now activate fingerprint or facial recognition on their devices, making the login process faster and more secure. The app also offers great convenience by allowing users to instantly view their account balance and savings right upon logging in.

In terms of the app’s interface, it now uses an icon-based format. Additionally, users can now save account numbers from interbank transfers, minimizing errors and streamlining repeat transactions.

Currently, the new version of konek2CARD is only available at CARD Bank branches in San Pablo City. However, by September 22, 2025, the institution aims to roll it out across all CARD Bank branches. In the coming months, this version will also be introduced to CARD SME Bank, a thrift bank under CARD MRI.

The double celebration also welcomed the konek2CARD’s new celebrity ambassador, Mr. JC Santos, who warmly extended his greetings to the institution on its milestone.

The celebration also recognized the presence of CARD MRI Founder and Chairman Emeritus Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip, along with some of the Executive and Management Committee Members, staff, and clients of CARD MRI.

The Future of CARD Bank

Looking ahead, CARD Bank aims to transition into a commercial bank next year.

“As a microfinance-oriented rural bank, we face certain limitations in the services we offer. By becoming a commercial bank, we will be able to broaden our financial services and meet the growing demands of our clients,” Dr. Alip stated.

With the upcoming transition, CARD Bank also aims to reach the families and relatives of its clients who are working overseas. In addition, while some commercial banks focus on offering investment products to large companies, CARD Bank seeks to make these opportunities accessible to its clients.

As of July 31, 2025, CARD Bank has served 4.4 million clients, with more than 1.6 million registered users of konek2CARD. For more information, visit its official website at https://cardbankph.com/.

by Josephine Ramos CARD Bank, a microfinance-oriented rural bank, marked its 28th anniversary with the launch of the new version of its mobile banking app, konek2CARD. The event was held in Brgy. Santisimo Rosario, San Pablo City, Laguna on September 1, 2025. “It was right here in this barangay, w...