Tools for Humanity, the team behind the World platform, is deepening its presence in Southeast Asia through a strategic partnership with developers in the Philippines to co-create Mini Apps and proof-of-human tools. The move aims to bolster digital trust and safety at a time when AI-driven fraud and identity theft are rapidly escalating.
“The Philippines has one of the world’s most digitally engaged populations,” said Tiago Sada, chief product officer of Tools for Humanity. “We’re excited to work with developers and partners here to co-create Mini Apps, designed by Filipinos for Filipinos, that promote trust and usability online.”
These Mini Apps—lightweight digital tools built atop World’s proof-of-human framework—are designed to verify user identity securely and anonymously. The initiative supports internet users facing rising threats from bots, deepfakes, and misinformation, while also helping local developers build culturally relevant tools tailored to underserved markets.
Sada, a former fintech founder, now leads product development for World’s global identity and financial network. He emphasized the growing traction of the World App ecosystem, especially in markets like the Philippines, where digital adoption is high but infrastructure gaps remain. “With a young, digitally savvy population and a growing middle class eager for new technologies and financial tools, World App’s Mini Apps ecosystem is quickly gaining traction,” he added.
Between 2022 and 2023, the Philippines saw a 4,500 percent surge in deepfake-related identity fraud, underscoring the urgent need for proof-of-human solutions. With mobile penetration and tech engagement among the highest in the region, the Philippines offers a prime environment to test digital trust innovations at scale.
Through its partnership with local developers, Tools for Humanity is building applications that not only enhance security but are also economically and culturally relevant. The collaboration reflects World’s broader strategy: local-first expansion in emerging markets, where the need for secure digital identity and financial inclusion is most acute.
Currently, World boasts 30 million users globally, with 14 million verified as humans. Its latest device, the World ID Orb—a secure, anonymous verification tool—is already available in parts of Bulacan, with rollout plans underway in major Metro Manila malls including Gateway Mall (Quezon City) and Greenhills (San Juan).
By empowering local talent and prioritizing community-driven innovation, Tools for Humanity is positioning World as a trust-first digital platform built for—and by—the communities it serves.
