UnionDigital’s ‘Kaya Mo Movement’ champions financial inclusion by empowering MSMEs

A speaker in a purple shirt holding a microphone and a tablet stands before a backdrop featuring the UnionDigital Bank logo during an event promoting the Kaya Mo Movement aimed at empowering MSMEs in the Philippines.

Danilo “Bong” Mojica II, PhD, President & CEO of UnionDigital Bank, unveils the Kaya Mo Movement, highlighting UD’s commitment to inclusive digital banking and uplifting underserved communities.

UnionDigital Bank (UD), the digital banking arm of Union Bank of the Philippines, is rewriting the future of financial inclusion with the launch of its Kaya Mo Movement—a bold initiative focused on closing the financing gap for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and underserved Filipino workers.

At its core, Kaya Mo (“You Can”) is more than just a slogan—it’s a call to action and a commitment to empowering everyday Filipinos, especially sari-sari storeowners, ride-share drivers, daily wage earners, and informal workers, many of whom operate without access to formal banking and credit.

“We don’t just build products; we design around people,” said Danilo “Bong” Mojica II, PhD, president and CEO of UD. “Kaya Mo is how we bridge the financing gap—by giving Filipinos the tools, trust, and support they need to believe in themselves financially. It’s not just about getting access—it’s about unlocking potential.”

With 37.6 million Filipino adults still unbanked, UnionDigital is stepping up to fill the void—bringing digital financial tools, accessible credit, and savings products directly to communities that need them most. And at the center of this mission? MSMEs—the backbone of the Philippine economy—who have long struggled to secure fair, flexible financing to start or grow their businesses.

A diverse group of four people engaging with their smartphones on a vibrant street, promoting digital banking and financial inclusion.

Banking for real people, built on empathy
Launched during a high-impact event that gathered fintech leaders, social entrepreneurs, and grassroots advocates, the Kaya Mo Movement spotlighted stories of resilience from microentrepreneurs who often face systemic obstacles to financial progress. Their experiences made clear: traditional banking models have overlooked millions, but technology, designed with empathy, can change that.

Tailored products for MSME success
UnionDigital is backing up its movement with purpose-driven financial solutions:

  • UD Save: A basic savings account with zero fees and no minimum balance—encouraging first-time savers, many of whom run small businesses or work in the gig economy.
  • UD Time Deposit: A low-entry long-term savings product that starts at just ₱1,000—the only one of its kind among local digital banks.
  • UD Loans: Available through select partners, these loans provide flexible installment options tailored to everyday needs, from healthcare to business capital.
  • UD Cash Loans (coming soon): A hassle-free digital loan designed for first-time borrowers, removing barriers like collateral and complex paperwork.

Also on the horizon are powerful new features like virtual VISA cards, early wage access, and microinsurance—tools that enable MSMEs and informal workers to better manage risk, plan for the future, and access the digital economy.

Group of individuals standing on a stage during the launch event of UnionDigital Bank's Kaya Mo Movement, with promotional banners in the background.

Partners and changemakers affirm their commitment to empower underserved Filipinos through the UnionDigital Bank-powered Kaya Mo Movement. From L-R: Sid Bada, head of clients, VISA Philippines; Florencia Pacia, commercial lead and consumer head of mWell; Mike Magpily, chief marketing officer, UnionDigital Bank; Danilo “Bong” Mojica II, PhD, president & CEO, UnionDigital Bank; wealth coach Chinkee Tan; community representatives Telly Moreño and Marjorie Sandoval; and Mark Joaquin Ruiz, co-founder & president, Hapinoy.

Kaya Mo is our promise to make banking work for real life,” said Mike Magpily, UD’s chief marketing officer. “From emergency savings to accessible loans, we’re giving people the confidence to grow their money and their businesses—because when MSMEs rise, communities rise with them.”

From exclusion to empowerment
The event also brought in partner organizations like Hapinoy and mWell, which support thousands of microentrepreneurs and underserved families through digital tools and community support.

“Access to finance is just the start. When you give people the tools and the belief that they can take charge of their future—that’s real empowerment,” said Mark Joaquin Ruiz, co-founder and president of Hapinoy. “With UnionDigital, many of our sari-sari store partners are no longer just surviving. They’re planning, growing, thriving.”

UnionDigital’s use of alternative data also helps extend credit to those without traditional financial histories—empowering even more MSMEs to get the support they’ve long been denied. By using data responsibly and building tech that reflects the realities of Filipino lives, UD is creating pathways to financial inclusion that are scalable, sustainable, and deeply human.

A movement rooted in partnership
The Kaya Mo Movement closed on a high note—with UD and its partners making a shared pledge: to build a financial system that includes everyone, starting with the most overlooked.

“This is more than a rebrand or a product push—it’s a realignment of purpose,” Mojica said. “We’re here to meet people where they are, help them move forward, and remind every Filipino, especially our MSMEs, that kaya mo umasenso. With UnionDigital, you really can.”

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