GCash champions LGBTQIA+ rights, fosters inclusive workplace

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GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance app and largest cashless ecosystem, celebrated Pride Month 2024 by actively participating in various Pride Marches nationwide.

The company’s efforts reflect its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the fintech industry.

Hamill, a Technology Change Manager at GCash, found a welcoming workplace where she could fully express her identity as a transwoman.

“When you have that confidence, it reflects in your work. You are productive, and that gives you pride,” she said. “We have a lot of LGBTQIA+ managers and employees, and they are free to express their identities. Sometimes, when work gets tough, the burden is lighter because colleagues lift you up.”

Building on last year’s “Werk with Pride” celebration, GCash is breaking barriers that hinder the LGBTQIA+ community from economic empowerment.

Chief People Officer Robert Conrad Gonzales emphasized the company’s inclusive vision: “Our vision of Finance For All starts from our employees who run the company; which is why we ensure inclusion is embedded in everything we do.”

The Life Partner Benefits program allows employees to declare their same-sex partners as dependents, extending health insurance, life insurance, and other benefits without the need for a marriage certificate.

Ian, Finance Transformation Manager at GCash, noted, “GCash recognizes and values its employees and their life partners, ensuring that individual differences and circumstances are respected and supported.”

GCash extends its support for the LGBTQIA+ community through initiatives such as insurance for same-sex couples via GInsure, partnering with companies like FPG Insurance, Singlife, Sun Life, and Generali.

This is especially significant in the Philippines, where same-sex unions are not legally recognized.

GCash’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its policies and internal culture. The company maintains a strong anti-discrimination policy and provides DEI training to ensure fair treatment for all employees.

In 2023, GCash earned the Great Place to Work (GPTW) Certification, bolstered by a 91% inclusion score from its 2024 employee survey.

GCash supports a network of queer employees called “Queer Peers CommYOUnity.” This group connects like-minded peers and collaborates with HR to develop programs and policies for the LGBTQIA+ community. Jeremiah, a member of Queer Peers CommYOUnity and the Marketing team, praised the diverse environment: “You can just be who you are, and you can do your best without being ashamed of being who you are.”

The policies and culture at GCash promote financial inclusion for queer Filipinos, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to eradicate systemic gender inequalities.

CJ Alegre, Sustainability Head at GCash, stated, “It is crucial for us to exceed compliance standards when it comes to inclusion, to make the financial ecosystem more diverse and inclusive through our services.”

GCash’s initiatives highlight its role as a champion for innovation and positive change, fostering an environment where every individual can thrive.