FIVE local government units and agencies from across the Visayas were among the 45 institutions honored at the 5th GCash Digital Excellence Awards (GDEA), held on February 19th at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The LGUs were recognized for their work in digitizing public services and expanding cashless payment options for citizens in both urban centers and geographically isolated communities.
This year’s theme “Recognizing Digital Pioneers: Empowering the Public Sector for a Modern, Inclusive Philippines,” brought together local government units and national agencies that have made measurable progress in modernizing how Filipinos transact with their government. Through GCash’s digital payment infrastructure, these institutions are building services that are not only faster and more transparent but genuinely within reach for every citizen.
The 5th GCash Digital Excellence Awards (GDEA) recognized the City Government of Dumaguete, the City Government of Victorias, Bohol Light Company Inc., the City Government of Bacolod, the City Government of Tagbilaran, and Tagbilaran City Central Public Market.
Together, these institutions have made digital payments a working reality for local fees, utility bills, and public market transactions. They have expanded online service channels and strengthened citizen access to government, particularly in areas where an in-person visit once meant hours of travel and half a day lost from work.
In a region where geographic isolation has historically slowed service delivery, the shift to secure, traceable digital transactions is for convenience and is a structural fix. Shorter processing times, reduced foot traffic at government counters, and reliable payment options for taxes and utilities are among the tangible gains these LGUs have delivered to their communities.
The GDEA’s award framework was designed to honor institutions at every stage of their digital journey. Newer adopters were celebrated through the Digital Breakthrough Growth Award, while the Excellence in Digital Transformation Award went to agencies that demonstrated consistent, measurable growth in digital transactions from 2022 through 2025.
Pointing to the partnerships that have made this scale of progress possible, Mynt Chairman Ernest Cu emphasized, “2025 was truly a year where GCash doubled down on its commitment through partnership with the government in advancing digitalization in our country. We are moving beyond ear access to delivering world-class innovations that people use daily. We could not have reached these heights alone. Together, we have brought strengthened fiscal management, streamlined disbursements, and connections to the LGU.”
Meanwhile, Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Director General Ernesto Perez was equally clear on where the real measure of success lies.
“Digital excellence within government rests on tangible results experienced by individuals and enterprises. It is seen in faster transactions, simplified requirements, dependable payment channels, and platforms that reach communities regardless of geography or circumstance. Through this initiative, GCash and ARTA continue to champion the goals by promoting ease of doing business, enhancing digital payment systems, and fostering stronger collaboration between government and the private sector,” he said.
Specialized citations for Digital Transformation Excellence in Healthcare, Education, and Utility Efficiency recognized institutions that improved sector-specific service delivery, while the Catalyst in Financial Inclusion Award honored programs that meaningfully expanded financial access. The Leader in Sustainable Financial Digitalization Award recognized long-term GCash partners of at least five years, and the Leader in Sustainable Financial Digitalization for Public Markets required a minimum of 70% digital payment adoption among market vendors. Rounding out the categories, the Palengke Digital Breakthrough Growth Award and the Champion for Digital Advocacy and Connectivity Award highlighted grassroots momentum and community-driven progress.
According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas report, more than 97% of government-to-government and government-to-employee transactions are now handled digitally, with retail digital payments surpassing 57% of total transaction volume across the country.
For GCash, honoring these institutions is an extension of a larger mission. As GCash VP and Head of Public Sector, Cleo Santos reaffirmed, “We are one with the government in the mission to serve every Filipino. Everything we do is anchored in our shared vision of finance for all. Every leader here tonight is a testament to the belief that no Filipino should be left behind in the digital economy.”
As GCash marks another year of deepening its public sector partnerships, the Visayas awardees serve as a reminder of what becomes possible when technology, government, and a shared purpose align. (rvo)
