Global financial institutions are deepening ties with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to accelerate Philippine startup growth and expand innovation links across ASEAN and Japan.
Security Bank Corp., Bank of Ayudhya Public Co. Ltd. (Krungsri), Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) Bank Ltd., MUFG Innovation Partners Co., Ltd. (MUIP), and Krungsri Finnovate Company Limited (KFIN) formalized the alliance through a memorandum of understanding with the DTI.
The partnership opens doors for Filipino startups to cross-border business matching, exchange programs, trade missions, and DTI-led innovation events designed to connect entrepreneurs with regional corporates and investors.
Philippine startups will also be invited to join Krungsri’s annual Japan-ASEAN Startup Business Matching Fair in Bangkok this June, a flagship platform that links emerging companies with major enterprises seeking new technologies and scalable solutions.
Beyond international exposure, the collaboration will support mapping of local startup activity, identification of high-potential partnerships with large corporations, and innovation development in fast-growing sectors. The goal is to help transform Filipino ideas into commercially viable ventures that generate jobs, competitiveness, and sustainable livelihoods.
The MOU brings together complementary strengths: Security Bank’s deep relationships with Philippine corporates; MUFG’s extensive Asia-Pacific network; Krungsri’s strong presence in Thailand and track record in regional matching; and MUIP and KFIN’s access to global startup ecosystems. The DTI anchors these efforts, aligning private-sector capabilities with national priorities for innovation-led growth.
“At Security Bank, this commitment reflects our BetterBanking promise to create value and open doors for businesses to thrive,” said Hirofumi Umeno, board director and executive vice president.
“Our shared goal is turning collaboration into outcomes that fuel long-term growth.”
MUFG managing director Masami Yoshitake said the partnership strengthens Philippine startups’ links to global capital.
