Global payments leaders Mastercard and Visa are among 22 organizations that have joined FinTech Alliance PH, further expanding the country’s largest industry association for digital financial services.

The new members were formally inducted during the Alliance’s 2026 General Membership Meeting held on March 11 at Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City.

The oath-taking ceremony was administered by Renato “Aboy” Paraiso, Undersecretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology and Executive Director of the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center.

Among the organizations joining the Alliance are the Asian Institute of Management, Amdocs, Clari5, Cloud Raptor Philippines, Inc., Equinix Philippines, Inc., Grab Financial Group, HCLTech, Qoala, Mastercard Philippines, and Monee (Credit) Finance Philippines, Inc., operator of SPayLater and SLoans.

Other new members include MoneeInsure Philippines General Insurance Co., Inc., Novus Transact Philippines Corporation, OneConnect Financial Technology of Ping An Group, Paloo Financing, Inc., Rainbow Fintech Corporation, Scoring Technology, Inc., Security Bank Corporation, ShopeePay Philippines, Inc., Talino Venture Studios, Veefin Solutions Ltd., Visa Worldwide Pte. Ltd., and Yinshan Lending Inc..

With the addition of these organizations, the Alliance continues to strengthen collaboration across banks, fintech firms, technology providers, digital platforms, and academic institutions working to accelerate digital finance and financial inclusion in the Philippines.

The 2026 General Membership Meeting gathered leaders from banking, fintech, government, and the broader digital economy to discuss key developments shaping the country’s digital financial ecosystem.

Among the initiatives highlighted during the gathering was the launch of the Fraud Intelligence Data Sharing (FIDS) Network, an industry-led platform aimed at strengthening intelligence sharing to combat financial fraud and cyber-enabled crimes. The Alliance also announced expanded engagement with the ASEAN Business Advisory Council to support regional fintech collaboration.

Lito Villanueva, founding chairman of FinTech Alliance PH and executive vice president and chief innovation and inclusion officer of Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation, said the continued expansion of the Alliance reflects growing industry commitment to building a more inclusive digital financial ecosystem.

“The Philippines is at a critical stage in scaling digital finance. Collaboration among banks, fintech companies, regulators, and technology providers will be key to making digital payments more accessible, secure, and widely adopted,” Villanueva said.

The gathering drew more than 600 executives, policymakers, and industry leaders, underscoring the continued momentum of financial technology development in the country.

FinTech Alliance PH now represents more than 150 corporate members responsible for over 95 percent of retail digital financial transaction volume in the Philippines, servicing more than 110 million accounts nationwide.

Many of our driver and delivery-partners work tirelessly each day to support their families. When unexpected needs arise — such as medical emergencies, vehicle repairs, or school expenses — access to quick and reliable financing can be limited. In the absence of formal options, some may turn to informal lenders with unclear terms and high costs.

To help address this gap, Grab offers microloans designed to provide a safer, regulated, and transparent alternative.

Before any loan is accepted, partners are clearly informed of the total repayment amount, repayment schedule, and all applicable charges. The full repayment amount is disclosed upfront and remains fixed. There are no hidden fees, no compounding charges, and no unexpected costs. This ensures partners can make informed financial decisions with complete clarity.

Importantly, we do not impose late payment penalties. The primary impact of delayed repayment may be on future loan eligibility. We also apply responsible lending guardrails. Loans are extended only to partners who meet defined earnings criteria, and total borrowing is capped as a percentage of historical earnings. Even if a partner has multiple loans, the combined amount cannot exceed this limit. These measures are intentionally designed to promote responsible borrowing and help prevent over-indebtedness.

Repayments are structured as manageable daily deductions aligned with platform earnings, rather than large lump-sum payments. This approach supports predictability and cash-flow alignment. In addition, we provide payment holidays for partners affected by calamities, offering temporary relief during difficult circumstances.

These features were developed in consultation with driver- and delivery-partners to reflect their real financial needs. Our objective is to expand access to short-term financing that is clear, regulated, responsibly designed, compliant with applicable regulatory guidelines, and supported by appropriate safeguards and earnings-based limits.

Because these are short-term microloans with a fixed total repayment amount disclosed upfront, the most meaningful reference for partners is the total peso amount they will repay over the loan term. While annualized rates are commonly used to compare long-term credit products, applying them to short-term loans without context may not accurately reflect the partner experience.

Grab remains committed to supporting the financial well-being of our driver- and delivery-partners while responsibly expanding access to fair and transparent financial services. We welcome continued engagement with regulators and stakeholders to further strengthen consumer protection and transparency in digital lending.

Available limit

SkyroCredit from Skyro gives an amount you can use for everyday payments through QR Ph When you use it and pay it back monthly, the amount becomes available again just like topping up your budget and using it whenever needed. With consistent on-time payments, the available limit can grow within a few months, sometimes even doubling from ₱5,000 to ₱100,000.

Billease offers limits up to ₱40,000. Maya Easy Credit ranges from ₱200 to ₱30,000. HC Qwarta allows borrowing up to ₱50,000 depending on evaluation. GCredit, powered by CIMB Bank inside the GCash app, offers up to ₱50,000 as well, with limits based on a user’s GScore and overall activity. All five support QR payments, making everyday spending smoother and more convenient.

If having a bigger amount available gives you more peace of mind for emergencies or bigger plans, SkyroCredit may offer higher limits depending on how well you pay.

Interest-free period

Each platform offers different interest-free options. Skyro gives up to 45 days interest-free if the full monthly balance is paid on time. Billease offers 0% to 3.49% monthly interest for installment plans. Maya has up to 30 days interest-free but includes a service fee while HC Qwarta starts interest daily. GCredit applies daily interest as well, with occasional promos offering lower rates during peak seasons.

A longer interest-free period can give you more breathing room to plan your payments and stay on top of your budget.

Cashback rewards 

Skyro and Home Credit are the only ones that offer cashback or loyalty points. Skyro gives 1% cashback for every purchase worth ₱100 and above, letting customers earn points they can use as discounts later. Home Credit also offers loyalty points that can help reduce loan payments. GCredit typically focuses on bill payment convenience, though it has seasonal cashback promos for new users or selected billers.

Fees

For SkyroCredit, there are no service fees or processing charges. Customers are charged only for the amount they use, rather than the full credit limit. Making the minimum payment on time allows customers to keep using the credit line and avoid penalties or late fees. If only the minimum payment is made, a 7% interest is applied to the outstanding balance until it is paid off. No interest is charged on the unused portion of the credit limit.

Other financing providers apply different fee structures. Home Credit charges 5% of the total due for late payments, Billease may apply penalty fees, Maya includes service fees and penalties. GCredit has no processing fees but charges daily interest, with minimum payments (at least 10% of the total amount due).

With so many choices available, picking a financing partner often comes down to flexibility and clarity. For many Filipinos, SkyroCredit stands out for its straightforward fees, pay-only-what-you-use approach, and features designed to fit everyday spending habits. From flexible payments to rewards that come with regular use, SkyroCredit makes financing feel less like an obligation and more like a practical tool for everyday life.

Moving beyond the traditional branch model, RCBC is embedding ATM Go terminals in trusted community partners, particularly money service businesses (MSBs), to make everyday transactions more accessible in rural and underserved areas. The strategy allows Filipinos to withdraw cash, transfer funds, and perform other banking activities in familiar neighborhood locations.

RCBC President and CEO Reggie Cariaso said the initiative reflects the Bank’s vision of inclusive growth powered by collaboration.

“RCBC continues to build ecosystems that meet Filipinos where they are. By partnering with institutions deeply rooted in communities, we are expanding our branch footprint without walls—making banking closer and more relevant to everyday life,” Cariaso said.

Through these partnerships, RCBC clients—including DiskarTech users—can transact conveniently without the need to travel far or visit a physical branch. The model supports practical financial needs such as sending remittances to family, securing daily earnings, and moving funds quickly and safely.

ATM Go also strengthens the country’s money movement infrastructure by enabling nationwide send-and-receive services backed by RCBC’s digital platform. Even non-RCBC account holders can receive cash through MSB partner outlets, reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to inclusive and customer-centric innovation.

RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovations and Inclusion Officer Lito Villanueva said the expanded network will help more Filipinos participate in the formal financial system.

“Our mission to include more Filipinos in digital banking will transform more communities, enterprises, and entrepreneurs by giving them easier access to services that support their goals and livelihoods,” Villanueva said.

The expansion builds on ATM Go’s industry-first features, including manual cash withdrawals for international Visa and Mastercard holders and QR-powered cash outs for users of other banks and e-wallets. These innovations have positioned ATM Go as the country’s leading alternative ATM service.

In 2025, the platform received multiple recognitions, among them Outstanding Digital Innovation in SME Banking – Highly Acclaimed at the Global SME Banking Innovation Awards, Agent Banking Initiative of the Year at the Asian Banking & Finance Retail Banking Awards, and Best Customer-Centric Product from the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines.

The successful initial tests demonstrate the strength of Globe’s network-level authentication capabilities, enabling automatic verification by securely matching the mobile number entered with the SIM card active in the current data session. By removing reliance on OTPs, SNA significantly reduces exposure to phishing, SIM-swap, and other identity-based fraud risks.

For millions of GCash users who depend on the platform to pay bills, send money, and manage daily finances, Silent Network Authentication delivers a smoother and more secure experience—quietly working in the background to protect accounts while simplifying logins and transactions.

SNA forms part of G Verify, Globe’s verification and anti-fraud portfolio that combines network-level solutions and Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to protect consumers and enterprises from evolving digital threats. Through G Verify, SNA provides fast and accurate identity confirmation, reinforcing trust in digital financial services.

“Security and accessibility must go hand in hand. This milestone is about building trust for the financially included,” said KD Dizon, Vice President and Head of Globe Business. “By working with GCash, we’re demonstrating how network-level innovation can directly improve safety and convenience for millions of Filipinos who rely on digital platforms every day.”

The initiative aligns with global benchmarks, as the SNA POC adheres to GSMA and CAMARA standards to ensure high levels of security and interoperability. Globe has earned GSMA certification for its Number Verification API and is an active participant in the Bridge Alliance API Exchange (BAEx), a regional platform that promotes collaboration and API adoption among telecommunications providers.

“At GCash, security and trust are at the heart of everything we do,” said Miguel Geronilla, Chief Information and Security Officer of GCash. “Partnering with Globe on Silent Network Authentication allows us to add a powerful layer of protection that works seamlessly in the background, so users can focus on what matters most.”

The collaboration also supports the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) call for stronger, more adaptive digital security across the financial sector. It builds on Globe’s earlier successful network API tests with a leading local financial institution, underscoring the company’s leadership in advancing secure, inclusive digital ecosystems.

By transforming its network capabilities into open, programmable platforms through a growing API ecosystem, Globe empowers partners like GCash to deliver safer and more intuitive digital services—helping pave the way for a future where every Filipino can confidently participate in the digital economy.

For more information on Globe Business solutions, visit www.globe.com.ph/business

These insights were shared during the 2025 Market Movers series, an exclusive economic briefing for clients that carried the theme, “Trump, Tariffs, and the Terminal Rate: The New Global Order.” The sessions provided perspectives to help investors and businesses navigate shifting global and domestic conditions. To strengthen the discussions, the event featured research and analysis from CreditSights and BMI, both under the global credit rater Fitch.

Mapa said that 2026 growth will likely be driven by the return of public construction and the delayed impact of monetary easing, which should begin to lift economic activity more visibly next year.

Below are the five key calls he identified for 2026:

The temporary fiscal pause this year may slightly weigh on short-term performance, but GDP growth is expected to gradually recover as capital formation and investments regain traction. The resumption of government spending and infrastructure programs is seen to support this turnaround.

Inflation, which fell below the BSP’s target this year, is projected to rise and approach the upper end of the 2–4% target range by mid-2026 due to base effects and possible increases in global commodity prices, including those influenced by U.S.-imposed tariffs. Despite this expected uptick, average full-year inflation is still seen to remain within the target.

The BSP is expected to remain dovish after its anticipated December rate cut, even as inflation trends close to 4% by mid-year. The central bank has already cut a total of 175 basis points from its peak policy rate of 6.50%, bringing it to 4.75% following its October 9 meeting. With price stability still manageable, the BSP is likely to maintain its focus on supporting softening growth momentum.

The Philippine yield curve is expected to steepen as monetary easing pulls short-term yields lower, while long-term yields rise due to government borrowing in the 10-year maturity range and gradually increasing inflation expectations. This may influence fixed-income strategies as investors position for shifting rate dynamics.

The Peso may continue to experience pressure even as the U.S. Federal Reserve maintains its rate-cutting cycle, which could weaken the dollar. Domestic factors, including the country’s current account deficit projected for 2026 and 2027, are expected to keep the local currency under strain.

For access to more economic reports and investment solutions, clients may enroll in Metrobank Wealth Manager through the Metrobank Online site or visit any branch or the official website.

Ambassador Endo highlighted SMBC’s role in supporting both Japanese and Filipino businesses through innovative banking products and services. “SMBC has not only contributed to the bank’s success but has also strengthened the longstanding partnership between Japan and the Philippines,” he said. He noted the bank’s strategic investments, including its involvement with RCBC, leadership in Samurai bond offerings, and facilitation of cross-border transactions, which have fostered local business growth and foreign investment in the country.

Since opening in 2015, following the amendment of the Foreign Bank Regulation Act, SMBC Manila has become a reliable partner in the country’s financial landscape. Its dedication to sustainable partnerships and long-term development has helped deepen Japan-Philippines economic cooperation and opened new opportunities for both nations.

Looking ahead, Ambassador ENDO expressed confidence that SMBC will continue to serve as a bridge between the two nations, fostering collaboration, supporting business growth, and reinforcing economic ties.

He concluded by celebrating the enduring friendship between Japan and the Philippines.

“Maraming salamat po. Mabuhay and SMBC Manila Branch. Mabuhay ang pagkakaibigan ng Japan at Pilipinas!” Ambassador ENDO said.

Senior Citizens Party-list Representative Rodolfo “Ompong” Ordanes has filed House Resolution No. 472 urging the House Committee on Energy to investigate, in aid of legislation, the continued non-implementation of the VAT removal required under Republic Act No. 12120, or the Philippine Natural Gas Industry Development Act.

RA 12120, enacted on January 8, 2025, exempts the sale of indigenous natural gas—and the electricity generated from it—from VAT to help reduce power costs for Filipino households, particularly seniors and low-income consumers.

The Department of Energy released the Implementing Rules and Regulations on April 8, 2025, followed by the Bureau of Internal Revenue’s Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 11-2025. Both took effect in April.

Despite these, power plants using indigenous natural gas are still being charged 12% VAT, resulting in households consuming around 200 kWh monthly paying about ₱42 per billing cycle—an amount that should have already been eliminated.

Ordanes warned that the delay undermines the law’s objective to ease the financial burden on consumers. He also wrote to DOE Secretary Sharon Garin seeking an update on the implementation status and requesting a time-bound action plan.

House Resolution No. 472 aims to identify bottlenecks, ensure accountability from implementing agencies, and close policy gaps preventing the immediate rollout of the VAT exemption.

As the first Philippine bank to offer this capability, RCBC allows customers to open and manage a U.S. virtual account directly within the Pulz app. Funds sent from any U.S. bank reflect instantly in users’ linked RCBC peso accounts, removing the delays, high fees, and complicated processes of traditional cross-border money transfers.

“RCBC has always been about breaking barriers and building bridges, especially for the millions of Filipinos with strong ties abroad,” RCBC President and CEO Reggie Cariaso said. “Through this partnership with Meridian, we are enabling every Filipino — whether a freelancer or an entrepreneur — to connect directly to the U.S. economy. This is financial inclusion made real.”

With an estimated US$36 billion in annual remittances flowing into the Philippines, RCBC’s new offering aims to modernize how Filipinos receive money from the U.S., providing a faster, more transparent, and more cost-efficient alternative to conventional remittance channels.

“Global payments often take hours or even days, with fees taking away from what people actually receive,” said Meridian CEO Will Haering. “By partnering with RCBC, we’re creating a seamless, compliant, and secure bridge that lets Filipinos enjoy the same speed and convenience that U.S.-based users experience locally.”

Unlike typical digital banking products that simply support remittances, the RCBC Pulz U.S. Virtual Account provides direct access to local U.S. payment rails — traditionally reserved for U.S. residents. Users can receive up to US$10,000 per month, enabling more efficient and secure management of cross-border earnings.

“This innovation puts RCBC ahead in the region’s digital banking race,” said RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer Lito Villanueva. “We’re not just digitizing existing services; we’re redesigning how money moves across borders. This brings us closer to a truly borderless financial ecosystem.”

The initiative also gained support from the government, aligning with the country’s digital transformation agenda.

“This innovation aligns perfectly with the DICT’s mission to build a safe, reliable, and digitally empowered nation anchored on strengthening cybersecurity, ensuring affordable data access, and driving digital innovations that uplift lives,” said Department of Information and Communications Technology Secretary Henry Aguda.

The timing is significant as more Filipino freelancers, gig workers, and professionals now serve U.S.-based clients, and over four million Filipinos live and work in the United States. The demand for flexible, affordable, and secure ways to receive and manage earnings continues to grow.

Starting November 11, Filipinos can create their U.S. virtual account directly through the RCBC Pulz app, allowing them to receive payments in U.S. dollars and convert them to pesos with the same ease as their regular accounts. Families in the Philippines can also receive support more quickly, without the long waits and conversion losses associated with traditional remittance services.

RCBC has earned wide recognition for its digital-first innovations through platforms such as RCBC Pulz, DiskarTech, and ATM Go, which strengthen financial inclusion nationwide.

“We are proud to partner with RCBC as the first bank bringing this transformative payment innovation to life and making U.S. accounts available across the Philippines,” Haering added. “Our shared vision is to eliminate borders in banking so global payments become local.”

“Banking should move at the speed of life,” Villanueva said. “This partnership with Meridian is more than a new product — it’s a promise to every Filipino that wherever you are in the world, your financial future is within reach.”

The session, co-led by the Philippines, China, and other developing nations, brought together WTO Members, international organizations, and private sector leaders to explore how trade disciplines can support financial inclusion, enhance cross-border payment interoperability, and reduce remittance costs.

Representing the private sector, Lito Villanueva, Founding Chairman of FinTech Alliance PH and Executive Vice President & Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer of RCBC, presented the Philippine experience in building a robust digital payments ecosystem.

“Technology only matters if it empowers people, and empowerment only endures when built on trust,” Villanueva said.

He cited the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap (2020–2023) and Open Finance Framework (2021) as key to achieving the “80 by 80 Vision” — targeting 80% of adults with digital accounts and 80% of retail transactions digitalized by 2028.

Villanueva also highlighted RCBC’s partnerships with the Commission on Filipinos Overseas and the Department of Migrant Workers to promote financial literacy and widen access to affordable remittance channels for overseas Filipinos.

The Philippines’ active role in the ASEAN Regional Payment Connectivity initiative and rollout of the QR PH standard, now being linked with other ASEAN QR systems, was cited as a model for regional payment interoperability that benefits small businesses and consumers.

Minister and Deputy Permanent Representative Gabriel R. Bautista said the WTO’s work can complement national reforms, noting, “Openness, interoperability, and proportionate regulation are the building blocks of financial inclusion. By sharing the Philippine model, we help ensure trade disciplines deliver real outcomes — lowering remittance costs and empowering digital entrepreneurs.”

The Philippine Mission vowed to continue advancing a development-oriented agenda on digital payments and financial inclusion, in line with its ASEAN Chairship priorities in 2026.