The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the Tagbilaran City government, and the BDO Foundation have formalized an expanded partnership to strengthen financial capability and resilience among Bohol residents, through a memorandum of agreement signed on July 7, 2026 at Tagbilaran City Hall. The document was signed by BSP deputy governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Tagbilaran City mayor Jane Censoria Yap, and BDO Foundation president Mario Deriquito.
Deputy governor Puyat said the agreement builds on shared efforts, noting that financial education works best when national agencies, local governments, private groups, and communities work together. Mayor Yap described the initiative as a whole-of-city approach, emphasizing that teaching financial literacy especially to young people will help improve their lives. Mr. Deriquito added the partnership aims to deliver practical, relevant financial education that creates real positive change for those who need it most.
The MOA sets coordinated efforts to help residents make sound financial choices, build better financial health, and raise their overall economic standing. Already implemented activities include financial learning sessions for micro, small, and medium enterprises, senior citizens, and civil society groups, plus assistance to help more people open formal financial accounts. The BSP also partnered with local universities to use its free online BSP E-Learning Academy courses on personal finance and economics, and held discussions with banks to expand financial access. It also met with the Provincial Fisheries Office to support fisherfolk, including introducing the interactive Fish N’ LEarn financial education game.
BSP officials also held talks with Bohol 1st District Representative John Geesnell “Baba” Lim Yap II to align efforts on financial education, inclusion, and consumer protection. These new activities follow earlier work in 2025, such as training local government trainers and running learning sessions for farmers, youth, and educators. The BSP noted financial education remains a core priority to drive wider financial inclusion and long-term economic growth in the province.
