Insider Spotlight
Why it matters
The move underscores the Philippines’ growing role as a hub for inclusive innovation, as fintech leaders push for stronger collaboration across Asia’s financial technology sectors.
The alliance, representing over 140 firms powering 95 percent of retail digital financial transactions in the country, led a delegation of local fintech players including Maya, RCBC, and Coins.ph.
Building regional bridges
Beyond the exhibit, the delegation—led by Lito Villanueva, FinTech Alliance PH founding chair and RCBC chief innovation and inclusion officer—met with Hong Kong officials and participated in a Financial Inclusion Caravan for overseas Filipinos.
“These partnerships signify more than just business opportunities; they represent shared purpose,” Villanueva said in a press release on Nov. 4, 2025. “Asia’s fintech story is no longer about competition; it’s about connection. We are building bridges for data, trust, and innovation across borders."
The big picture
The alliance sealed collaborations with InvestHK and the Hong Kong FinTech Association to advance cross-border innovations in payments, digital ID interoperability, AI-driven fraud prevention, and alternative credit scoring.
Driving inclusive growth
With the Philippines projected by S&P Market Intelligence to become a $1-trillion digital economy by 2033, the alliance’s “80 x 80 by 2028” vision aims to digitally and financially include 80 million Filipinos by 2028.
“Financial inclusion is no longer a national goal. It is a global imperative,” Villanueva added. “As we connect Filipinos abroad and empower entrepreneurs at home, we are democratizing prosperity through technology that listens, learns, and lifts.” —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
