Banking & Insurance
BSP-WB effort targets cash-to-digital shift in gov’t
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the World Bank (WB) are accelerating efforts to shift government payments and collections to digital platforms, aiming to improve service efficiency and financial inclusion. The call came during the forum “Payments for the People,” held in Makati City on May 13, 2026, and attended by government agencies, local government units, and industry partners.
Tala unveils app to reward smarter borrowing habits
Digital lender Tala Philippines has introduced a new in-app feature that gives borrowers greater visibility into their credit journey, a move aimed at reducing financial uncertainty while encouraging responsible borrowing and long-term financial planning.
Treasury bill demand stays strong as yield move mixed
Investor appetite for short-term government securities remained robust on Monday, allowing the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) to fully award its Treasury bill (T-bill) and Cash Management Bill (CMB) offerings despite mixed movements in yields amid easing geopolitical tensions and moderating inflation expectations.
BPI waives interbank transfer fees permanently starting July 1
The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) on Monday announced that fund transfers via InstaPay and PESONet to other banks and e-wallets will be permanently free for all users effective July 1, 2026. The waiver complies with BSP Circular No. 1238, Series of 2026, which mandates fair and reasonable pricing for electronic fund transfers across financial institutions.
WB approves record $1.02B Philippine energy, water loan
The World Bank Group has approved a record USD1.02-billion financing package for the Philippines, backing reforms aimed at lowering electricity costs, strengthening water security and accelerating the country's transition to cleaner energy.
