Having a bank account or a financial app doesn’t always mean people are actively participating in their financial health. A new study by Mastercard, in partnership with RCBC, uncovers how culturally relevant design, trust-building features, and security-led engagement can transform mere access into sustained financial participation for Filipinos.
According to the World Bank’s Global Findex 2025, while 78% of Filipino adults own mobile phones, only half have financial accounts. The study dives deep into what it takes to move passive account holders toward active, resilient financial engagement.
The research draws on insights from a two-year study of RCBC’s DiskarTech platform—the country’s first fully Taglish and Cebuano financial app. Findings reveal that user-friendly, culturally attuned interfaces, timely access to micro-credit, and trust-building digital experiences can turn first-time users into financially resilient participants. The study provides actionable guidance for banks, fintechs, and policymakers looking to advance meaningful, long-term financial inclusion in the Philippines.
Overcoming barriers to active financial participation
Despite increasing mobile access, many Filipinos still face hurdles that prevent full engagement with financial services. These include limited physical access to digital or branch infrastructure, knowledge gaps, and concerns about trust and security. Fear of scams, technical failures, or data loss can keep users from actively managing their finances. The study identifies strategies to tackle these barriers and guide underbanked populations toward stronger financial health:
- Win the First 30 Days
The initial experience matters. Platforms that are simple, personalized, and locally relevant encourage consistent use. Offering local language options—like Taglish or Cebuano—and intuitive design, clear instructions, and accessible self-help tools helps make financial platforms approachable, especially in provincial areas. - Turn Digital Touches into Trust
Trust grows when institutions meet users on familiar channels. Leveraging online messaging apps, supported by face-to-face guidance from branch staff and customer service, reinforces reliability and familiarity. - Lead with Security
Gradual education about security features builds confidence. Highlighting 24/7 fraud monitoring, reliable cash-outs, and other safeguards in clear, relatable ways converts cautious users into regular participants.
“This research comes at a pivotal time for financial organizations,” said Reggie Cariaso, RCBC President and CEO. “It sheds light on how tech-enabled experiences can drive relevant, impactful innovations. We’re proud to be featured in Mastercard’s white paper as we work toward greater financial inclusion nationwide.”
“Mastercard’s white paper on DiskarTech positions the Philippines as a leader in sustainable financial inclusion,” said Lito Villanueva, RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer. “This is the first study in Asia Pacific and only the second globally after NuBank of Brazil, demonstrating the real impact of strategic collaborations across government, private sector, and industry partners.”
“Financial inclusion is more than opening accounts—it’s about encouraging active, responsible use that unlocks real opportunities,” said Judith Dayrit, Vice President, Account Management, Philippines, Mastercard. “Our collaboration with RCBC charts a clear path from first-time access to long-term, active participation through intuitive design, thoughtful onboarding, and robust security. We’re proud to support the Philippines in building a more inclusive and resilient financial future.”
This study underscores RCBC and Mastercard’s ongoing commitment to understanding and addressing the financial barriers faced by underserved communities, helping Filipinos move from access to meaningful, long-term financial participation.