GCash commits to inclusive workplace for disabled

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GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National Council for Disability Affairs (NCDA) to foster an inclusive workplace for persons with disabilities.

The move solidifies GCash’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I).

GCash aims to integrate comprehensive policies, innovative programs, and accessible spaces for persons with disabilities by 2025.

The NCDA, the Philippines’ lead agency for disability affairs, will support these initiatives.

The council comprises 13 national government agencies and representatives from organizations for persons with disabilities.

“We are thrilled to partner with the NCDA on what persons with disabilities need in the company, from accessibility or inclusivity measures,” said GCash Chief People Officer Robert Gonzales. “We want them to look at GCash as a place to grow their careers without limitation, discrimination, and barriers.”

The partnership includes internal practices and targeted recruitment efforts, such as a new hiring policy for persons with disabilities, learning sessions, and participation in the NCDA’s Philippine Disability Convention and Expo.

“We are here with our hearts full of hope that this is a good first step for advancing the rights of persons with disability with a company like GCash,” remarked Atty. Rhealeth Krizelle Ramos, NCDA Programs Management Division Chief.

An employee survey by GCash revealed that 22% of its employees identify as persons with disabilities, with visual impairments being the most common.

According to the World Health Organization, around 16% of the global population, or roughly 1.3 billion people, have some form of disability.

In the Philippines, the 2016 National Disability Prevalence Survey by the Philippine Statistics Authority reported that around 12% of Filipinos aged 15 and older experienced severe disability, with 47% experiencing moderate disability and 23% mild disability.

The risk of disability due to accidents, illnesses, or health conditions underscores the need for workplace policies to protect persons with disabilities. GCash is committed to implementing such measures for its employees.

“We are proud to solidify our commitment to the community of persons with disabilities, a sector that is very important to GCash,” said GCash Head of Sustainability CJ Alegre.

“Leading with integrity is one of the sustainability pillars of GCash, and this reveals our commitment to value and empower our employees, foster their well-being, invest in their development, and drive inclusivity in the workplace.”