GMA Network and Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) have teamed up, once again, to spread awareness about cybersecurity during a workshop with the theme of “Maging Listo, Huwag Magpaloko.”

The event happened in Makati City last Oct. 18. It was attended by GMA Corporate Affairs and Communications Vice President Angela Javier-Cruz, together with BPI executives: Chief Customer and Marketing Officer Cathy Santamaria, Enterprise Information Security Officer and Data Protection Officer Jonathan John Paz, Fraud Risk Operations Division Head Luigi Manianglung, and Public Affairs and Communications Head Maria Elena Torrijos.

According to Ms. Javier-Cruz, “Throughout our history in GMA, we have used our platforms and reach for significant advocacies like this one. GMA battles fake news, while BPI fights scams and fraud. Together, we aim for what is true. Sabi nga nating mga Kapuso, ‘Dapat Totoo!’ Everyone in this room plays a crucial role, you have the influence to inform, inspire, and educate others through your digital platforms. Sama-sama tayong maging listo, huwag magpaloko.”

It was a gathering not only filled with relevant learning, but also with a lot of stars from Sparkle GMA Artist Center. Hosted by Sparkle’s very own Rain Matienzo, this workshop was designed to equip artists and influencers with the necessary knowledge to safeguard their information and teach others how to protect themselves against scammers.

Some of the highly talented stars present in the workshop were Elijah Alejo, Dave Bornea, Angel Leighton, Cheska Fausto, Brent Valdez, Kim Perez, Nikki Co, Prince Carlos, Prince Clemente, Shanelle Agustin, Patricia Coma, Mitzi Josh and Larkin Castor.

Powerhouse Kapuso singers also joined the educational event including Liana Castillo, Meghan Dionisio, and Cloud 7 members Kairo, Egypt, Lukas, and Johann.

Moreover, Sparkle teens, beauty queens, and newly-signed artists under “Status by Sparkle” participated and learned important lessons about cybersecurity. These were Josh Ford, Aya Domingo, Zyren Dela Cruz,Keisha Serna, John Clifford, Alethea Ambrosio, AZ Martinez, Bont Bryan Oropel, Javi Valdes, and Maika Kemmochi.

Throughout the discussions, Mr. Paz and Mr. Manianglung clearly explained how to avoid various schemes like phishing, smishing, vishing, spoofing, and acting as a money mule. In the end, the event’s theme sums it up, leading to the main lesson to be more vigilant to prevent from losing one’s hard-earned money.

To add more fun to the activity and test what the participants learned, a game was also prepared for them. Sparkle stars showed off their wit and acting skills by creating a 60-second skit that promotes cybersecurity awareness.

Wrapping up the meaningful event was Ms. Santamaria who said, “This would not have been possible without the unwavering support of GMA. Let’s work together to raise awareness and protect our fellow Filipinos from the ever-present threats of cybercrime. Always remember that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility.”

In May 2023, BPI partnered with GMA and its digital media and technology arm, GMA NMI, to launch a series of cybersecurity videos. The videos consist of three interconnected stories depicting real-life instances of social engineering and scamming attacks. This anti-scam advocacy series was recognized as the sole Philippine finalist in the 2023 Cannes Corporate Media & TV Awards.