Fintech Alliance PH to Launch Fraud Intelligence Data Sharing Network at 2026 General Membership Meeting

 

TAGUIG CITY – Fintech Alliance PH will convene leaders from across banking, fintech, credit bureaus, regulators, and industry partners for its 2026 General Membership Meeting and New Members’ Oath-Taking on March 11, 2026, 10:00 AM at Marquis Events Place,

Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. 

The FinTech Alliance PH is the Philippines’ premier and largest digital industry association, comprising over 140 corporate members that collectively account for more than 95% of the country’s digital retail financial transaction volume with combined user base in excess of 110 million Filipinos.  

This year’s General Membership Meeting marks a decisive step in strengthening the country’s collective digital defense with the official launch of the Fraud Intelligence Data Sharing Network. The  initiative  represents  a  coordinated,  industry-wide  effort  to  enable  timely  intelligence exchange, reinforce fraud prevention capabilities, and enhance trust across the Philippine digital finance ecosystem. 

A key highlight of the program will be the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing between the  Cybercrime  Investigation  and  Coordinating  Center  (CICC)  and  Fintech  Alliance  PH, formalizing  deeper  collaboration  between  government  and  industry  in  the  fight  against cybercrime and digital fraud. 

The meeting will also spotlight strategic priorities for 2026, including: 

• Cybersecurity as Infrastructure: Fortifying Our Digital Defense • Enabling Blockchain and Digital Assets • ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN BAC) Collaboration • Key Strategic Initiatives for 2026 

Delivering the keynote address is Atty. Eugene Teves, Managing Director of the Technology and Digital  Innovation  Office  of  the  Bangko  Sentral  ng  Pilipinas,  who  will  share  regulatory perspectives  on  digital  innovation,  blockchain  enablement,  and  the  evolving  supervisory framework for emerging technologies. 

Also joining the distinguished roster of speakers is Joey Concepcion, Chairman of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN BAC), who will present on the Philippines’ role in advancing inclusive economic growth and regional fintech collaboration within ASEAN; and Atty. Renato “Aboy” Paraiso, Executive Director of the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC),  who  will  discuss  the  government’s  strengthened  enforcement  strategy  and  the importance of public-private intelligence sharing in protecting digital infrastructure. 

The program will be hosted by Rico Hizon, award-winning news anchor with CNBC, BBC News, and CNN Philippines, currently with ANC, bringing seasoned insight and perspective to the Alliance’s milestone gathering. 

Lito  Villanueva,  Founding  Chairman of FinTech Alliance PH, emphasized the importance of industry solidarity in addressing evolving digital threats: 

“Fraud  does  not  recognize  institutional  boundaries,  and  neither  should  our  response. 

The launch of the Fraud Intelligence Data Sharing Network reflects our shared commitment to come together as one ecosystem to protect the integrity of our digital economy. By strengthening collaboration  and  institutionalizing  intelligence  exchange,  we  are  reinforcing  trust  as  the foundation of innovation. 

This is about standing united to secure the future of digital finance in the country.” 

Another highlight of the event will be the signing of multiple Memoranda of Understanding with key industry bodies, including ASEAN Business Advisory Council, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), and the oath taking of the new set of corporate members. 

These  partnerships  highlight  Fintech  Alliance.PH’s  continued  effort  to  foster  cross-sector collaboration in advancing financial inclusion, digital trust, and sustainable fintech innovation. 

In  addition  to  major  partnership  milestones,  the  program  will  culminate  in  the  oath-taking ceremony of new member organizations, formally welcoming them into the country’s premier fintech association. 

The 2026 General Membership Meeting is supported by sponsors CIBI and TransUnion. 

ASCC PH Hosts 3 Major Meetings this Week

MANILA —The Philippines, through its Chairship of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Pillar, announced on Monday that it is hosting three major meetings to strengthen family resilience, empower young people, and advance inclusive development for marginalized and vulnerable communities across the region.

In a media briefing at the International Media Center, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Assistant Secretary Irene B. Dumlao said these meetings emphasize the Philippines’ “RISE ASEAN” agenda, which supports “a truly ‘One ASEAN, One Response’ region.”

 Dumlao said the three meetings are:

First, the 40th ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (SOCA) Meeting, where senior officials will review and harmonize key frameworks in support of our People Empowerment agenda.

Second, the High-Level ASCC Council Forum, which brings together ministers, senior officials, experts, youth leaders, and development partners to place people empowerment at the forefront of ASEAN’s forward trajectory. 

“The Forum affirms that empowering individuals, families, and communities is both the means and the measure of ASEAN’s success,” Dumlao said.

The third meeting, Dumlao said, is the 35th ASCC Council Meeting, where regional ministers will formally adopt key frameworks and finalize priority social policies for Southeast Asia.

“Beyond these high-level meetings, the richness of the Filipino culture will also be highlighted through our curated gastronomic and heritage tours, and performances of traditional music and dance,” Dumlao said.

Dumlao said the Philippines is deeply honored to welcome the Ministers and Heads of Delegations of “our ASEAN Family, led by H.E. Rex Gatchalian of the Philippines as ASCC Chair and H.E. Masagos Zulkifli of Singapore as ASCC Vice Chair, alongside our esteemed counterparts from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam and Timor Leste, and the ASEAN Secretariat.”

Gatchalian is the DSWD Secretary.

“The Philippines welcomes our ASEAN family not only with a strong pro-people agenda, but with the spirit of unity and partnership. As we navigate our future together, may we continue shaping a resilient, dynamic, and truly people-centered ASEAN,” Dumlao said.

As the 2026 ASEAN Chair, the Philippines is taking an active role in shaping the regional agenda, engaging in high-level dialogues that are shaping cooperation in security, economic integration, and social development.

 

ASCC PH Chairship unveils ‘RISE ASEAN’ agenda

MANILA — The Philippines, through its Chairship of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Pillar, unveiled on Monday the “Rise ASEAN” agenda to underscore its commitment to strengthening family resilience, empowering young people, and advancing inclusive development for marginalized and vulnerable communities across the region.

In a media briefing at the International Media Center, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Assistant Secretary Irene B. Dumlao said the “RISE ASEAN” agenda pushes forward “a truly ‘One ASEAN, One Response’ region.”

“Today, March 2, 2026, officially marks the beginning of a monumental week for the Philippines and the entire Southeast Asian region. The Philippines, through the Department of Social Welfare and Development as Chair of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Pillar, alongside our fellow Member States, is championing ‘People Empowerment’ guided by the theme ‘RISE ASEAN,’” Dumlao said.

Dumlao explained that RISE stands for “R - Resilient and Empowered Families, I - Inclusive Development, S - Smart Youth and Innovation, and E - Environmentally Sustainable and Food Secure Future.”

Dumlao said the RISE ASEAN agenda aligns with the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, adding that this agenda “reinforces our shared aspiration for a people-oriented and people-centered ASEAN.”

“It is guided by three core priorities: peace and security, prosperity, and people empowerment. These are pillars that affirm that our collective future rests on the strength and resilience of the communities we nurture today,” Dumlao said.

“The Philippines welcomes our ASEAN family not only with a strong pro-people agenda, but with the spirit of unity and partnership. As we navigate our future together, may we continue shaping a resilient, dynamic, and truly people-centered ASEAN,” Dumlao said.

The Philippines, through the ASCC Pillar, is hosting this week the 40th Senior Officials Committee for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural (SOCA) Meeting and the 35th ASCC Council Meeting, among other meetings.

As the 2026 ASEAN Chair, the Philippines is taking an active role in shaping the regional agenda, engaging in high-level dialogues that are shaping cooperation in security, economic integration, and social development. 

RCBC Reports 11% Profit Growth, Reaching PHP 10.6 Billion in 2025

Total assets reached PHP 1.4 trillion, supported by strong deposit figures and the issuance of sustainability bonds.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) recorded an 11% increase in its net income for 2025, reaching PHP 10.6 billion (US$183.71 million), Asian Banking & Finance reported.

This financial growth was primarily fuelled by a 32% surge in net interest income alongside a 25% rise in service fees.

The Yuchengco-led financial institution attributed these improved figures to a broader, more diverse funding base that effectively lowered operational costs.

By the close of the year, the Daily Tribune noted that the bank’s total assets stood at PHP 1.4 trillion, backed heavily by PHP 1 trillion in total deposits.

Current and savings accounts (CASA) constituted over half of this deposit base.

Furthermore, the lender fortified its balance sheet by securing PHP 32.4 billion through sustainability bonds, designed to fund environmentally and socially beneficial projects while diversifying funding sources.

The bank’s net interest margin saw an improvement of 89 basis points, settling at 4.77%.

Gross customer loans grew by 7% during the period, with consumer lending making up nearly half (49%) of the total portfolio.

Consumer loans overall expanded by 29%.

Meanwhile, credit card receivables jumped 32%, largely driven by an 18% increase in newly issued cards as the bank successfully engaged a more affluent clientele.

Profitability metrics reflected this upward trajectory, with return on equity increasing to 6.65% and return on assets reaching 0.81%.

Regarding technological deployments, the bank introduced new digital payment solutions, including Google Pay access and a Tap-to-Phone feature for merchants.

Indonesia‑Philippines exchange highlights PPP Center’s expertise

The Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center of the Philippines, with support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), welcomed delegates from the Government of Indonesia for a comprehensive knowledge exchange visit at the PPP Center Boardroom in Quezon City on February 12, 2026.

The activity served as a platform to foster cross-border collaboration by sharing good practices in advancing quality PPP projects. It also provided an opportunity for both nations to address common challenges in mobilizing private sector capital for public welfare. ADB also presented how it works with partners to mobilize sovereign and non-sovereign financing.

Mr. Renadi Budiman, Deputy Country Director of the ADB Indonesia Resident Mission underscored the importance of regional cooperation in infrastructure development during his opening remarks. “The session will highlight what has made the PPP Center effective in practice, including critical success factors and lessons that may be relevant or adaptable in other country contexts. We will also reflect collaboration between the PPP Center and ADB in supporting the PPP sector. We will then turn to PPP project development and implementation in practice, sharing concrete experiences and lessons learned from project preparation through to delivery,” he remarked.

During the learning sessions, Assistant Secretary and PPP Center Deputy Executive Director Eleazar E. Ricote provided the delegation with an in-depth look at the Philippine’ PPP Program and its robust legal framework. In addition, the Indonesian delegation and the PPP Center also explored various avenues for knowledge sharing and technical exchange on infrastructure development, policy frameworks, and project implementation.

The discussion also covered ADB’s role in empowering member countries to secure private investment and foster growth across the Asia-Pacific region, including Indonesia. ADB representatives likewise highlighted their services, such as capacity building, project identification, and transaction advisory, as well as post-commercial support for contract management and project monitoring.

The delegation, led by Mr. Putut Hari Satyaka, Deputy Minister for Development Financing and Investment of the Ministry of National Development Planning, represented a diverse range of Indonesian institutions, including officials from the National Development Planning, Finance, Health, Public Works, and Marine Affairs and Fisheries. With support from ADB representatives from the Indonesia Resident Mission, Office of Market Development and Public-Private Partnership and Private Sector Operations Department—all of whom engaged in the knowledge exchange of the good practices in the PPP framework—the delegation also engaged with other Philippine government agencies, including the Department of Environment and National Resources, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Transportation, the Bureau of Internal Revenue, and the Philippine Competition Commission

Following the knowledge sharing sessions, the delegation visited several landmark PPP projects in Metro Manila. These field activities provided participants with firsthand insights into the practical and operational aspects of PPP projects, illustrating how these projects improve the daily life and livelihoods of local communities.

The visit underscores the PPP Center’s unwavering commitment to excellence and demonstrates its expertise in facilitating viable PPP projects that accelerate sustainable infrastructure development in the country—serving as a benchmark model for PPP agencies worldwide.

#PPPCenterofthePhilippines

Solons, Quezon City, and Advocates March for Stronger Food Policies on Heart Health

Quezon City — Lawmakers, the Quezon City Government, and public health advocates marched together on February 22, 2026, along Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City, to mark Philippine Heart Month and call for stronger food policies that protect Filipino families from heart disease and other diet-related diseases.

The event, titled “Step Up for Healthier Hearts: Sama-samang Hakbang para sa Kalusugan,” united legislators, civil society organizations, and community members in support of three pending measures in Congress: the Healthy Food Environment (HFE) bill, the Front-of-Pack Warning Label (FOPWL) bill, and the Sodium Reformulation bill.

Legislators voice commitment to heart health

Akbayan Representatives Perci Cendaña and Chel Diokno, principal authors of House Bill no. 6834 (HFE Bill), walked in solidarity and pledged their commitment to building a healthy food environment for Filipinos.

Cendaña underscored the importance of clear consumer information and preventive measures, noting, “Dapat may mandatory front-of-package warning labels ang mga laps [pagkain]. Gaya sa love, ang laps, dapat may label. Para alam natin kung keri pa, o major red flag na. Hopefully, the Healthy Food Environment Bill that Akbayan Partylist is pushing for leaves our hospitals with fewer cases of stroke, hypertension, and other cardiovascular diseases.”

(“There should be mandatory front-of-pack warning labels on food products. Just like love, food should also have labeles—so we’ll know if it’s healthy or already a major red flag. Hopefully, the Healthy Food Environment Bill that Akbayan Partylist is pushing for leaves our hospitals with fewer cases of stroke, hypertension, and other cardiovascular diseases.”)

Picking up on Cendaña’s call for transparency and informed choices, Diokno emphasized the need for stronger protections for Filipinos: "Kailangan meron ding pananagutan ang mga gagawa ng bagay ng mga hindi nakakatulong sa ating kabataan at lahat ng mga Pilipino. Kailangan natin itong mga panukalang ito [Healthy Food Environment Bill], at sana ay masuportahan ito."

(“There must be accountability for those who produce food and beverages that do not benefit our youth and all Filipinos. We need these proposed measures [Healthy Food Environment Bill] and we hope they will be supported.”)

As of February, 24 bills enabling a healthy food environment have been filed in Congress, with 28 principal authors and 46 co-authors—reflecting a growing momentum for the measures.

Local government initiatives

In the local government,. Councilor Atty. Vincent Belmonte of Quezon City highlighted the city’s ongoing efforts to strengthen heart health and nutrition programs, stressing that Philippine Heart Month is more than just promoting a healthy lifestyle—it is a call for stronger food environments that protect communities. 

“Dito sa Quezon City, meron tayong Healthy Public Food Procurement policy para siguardong ang pondo ng taumbayan ay napupunta sa masustansya at healthy na pagkain. Proud din tayo sa ating Calorie Labeling Ordinance na tumutulong sa mga residente na mas maging maingat sa kanilang kinakain, lalo na ang may mga iniindang sakit.”

(“Here in Quezon City, we have a Healthy Public Food Procurement policy to ensure that public funds are spent on nutritious and healthy food. We are also proud of our Calorie Labeling Ordinance, which helps residents to be more mindful of what they eat, especially those with existing health conditions.”)

Medical and civil society support

Beyond legislators, medical leaders and public health advocates affirmed that heart disease prevention must begin with the food environment. Dr. Rodney Jimenez of the Philippine Heart Association (PHA) reminded the public of the urgency: “To this day, heart disease remains the leading health concern of Filipinos; and if we want to break that cycle, we must start with the food environment. Stronger policies on nutrition labeling, food marketing, and reformulation of high-sodium products can ensure that the next generation grows up with healthier choices and healthier hearts.”

Atty. Sophia San Luis, Executive Director of ImagineLaw, reiterated the need for systemic health protections through swift congressional action. “Mahirap talagang maging healthy dahil ang mga industriya ng pagkain ay hindi sinasabi sa atin kapag hindi nakakabuti sa kalusugan ang ating pagkain. Kaya sana ay masuportahan ng ating mga mambabatas ang Healthy Food Environment Bill, Front-of-Pack Warning Label Bill, at Sodium Reformulation Bill para ang mga Pilipino ay maging malusog at makapagdesisyon nang tama pagdating sa pagkain.”

(“It is difficult for families to make healthy choices when the food industry does not disclose when products are harmful to our health. That is why our lawmakers must support the Healthy Food Environment Bill, Front-of-Pack Warning Label Bill, and Sodium Reformulation Bill so that Filipinos can live healthier lives and make the right decisions when it comes to food.”)

The wellness walk also featured interactive activities such as Taichi and Fight Form, interactive exhibits, advocacy booths, and a commitment wall where legislators, advocates, and other participants pledged support for healthier food environments, underscoring the collective effort to advance heart health.

PHOTOS FROM  urgency of building a healthy food environment through stronger food policies such as the Healthy Food Environment Bill, the Front-of-Pack Warning Label Bill, and the Sodium Reformulation Bill.

File name: Solons, Quezon City, and Advocates March for Stronger Food Policies on Heart Health (04)

Quezon City Councilor Atty. Vincent Belmonte proudly shares the city’s health and nutrition initiatives during the Step Up for Healthier Hearts Wellness Walk such as their Healthy Public Food Procurement policy and the Calorie Labeling Ordinance.

File name: Solons, Quezon City, and Advocates March for Stronger Food Policies on Heart Health (05)

Community moms bring energy and joy to the Step Up for Healthier Hearts Wellness Walk with a spirited zumba session.: 

*BIR Launches 2026 National Tax Campaign Banner“Mahusay na Serbisyo, Katumbas ng Buwis Mo”*

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), headed by Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza, formally kicked off its 2026 National Tax Campaign with a grand event held at the Philippine International Convention Center on February 13, 2026.

 

The National Tax Campaign Kickoff is a major annual activity that officially commences the Bureau’s tax campaign efforts for the year. It gathered leaders and representatives from government agencies, business and professional organizations, multi-sectoral partners, and private institutions, demonstrating broad-based support for the Bureau’s reform and revenue mobilization agenda.

 

This year’s campaign carries the theme, “Mahusay na Serbisyo, Katumbas ng Buwis Mo,” underscoring the Bureau’s firm commitment to deliver efficient, transparent, and responsive public service commensurate to every peso of taxes paid. The campaign reinforces that paying the correct taxes on time is both a civic duty and a concrete contribution to nation-building.

 

Strong 2025 Performance and Reform Milestones

 

In 2025, the BIR collected a total of ₱3.105 trillion in revenues, surpassing its collection target and sustaining its upward trajectory. This achievement reflects improved voluntary compliance, more focused enforcement, and sustained efforts to modernize systems and processes.

 

In addition, the Bureau recorded significant gains under the Estate Tax Amnesty program. With the passage of Republic Act (RA) No. 11956 in 2023, the period for availment of the Estate Tax Amnesty pursuant to RA No. 11213 was extended until June 14, 2025, and its coverage expanded to include the settlement of estate taxes of decedents who died on or before May 31, 2022. From January to June 2025 alone, the BIR collected a total of ₱4.603 billion from 100,786 availers of the Estate Tax Amnesty, contributing to revenue generation while enabling taxpayers to settle long-standing estate tax liabilities under simplified terms.

 

Central to the Bureau’s reform agenda is Digital Transformation. In 2025, the BIR took significant strides toward a more transparent, secure, and taxpayer-centered tax administration.

 

One of the most notable developments is the introduction of the first-ever BIR Interactive Digital Tax Calendar for 2026, accessible through the BIR website (www.bir.gov.ph). The online platform is designed to help taxpayers and tax practitioners easily track, manage, and comply with tax return filing and payment deadlines, minimizing errors and promoting timely compliance.

 

Another milestone is the rollout of the BIR Registration Seal Badge, along with the inclusion of a Quick Response (QR) Code in the Certificate of Registration (COR)/Electronic COR and Authority to Print (ATP). This initiative serves as a strong safeguard against fraud and fake registrations, enabling instant online verification of a taxpayer’s identity and business legitimacy. Taxpayers engaged in e-commerce or online business activities are required to display the BIR Registration Seal Badge on their websites or e-commerce platforms as proof of valid registration.

 

The Bureau likewise introduced the Letter of Authority (LOA) Verifier through ChatBot REVIE, empowering taxpayers to verify the authenticity of issued LOAs using basic taxpayer information. This innovation enhances transparency, protects taxpayers from unauthorized audit activities, ensures accountability within the system, and establishes a single, official, and reliable channel of communication.

 

Further demonstrating the success of digitalization efforts, the percentage share of e-Payment Collection to Total BIR Tax Collection reached 85% in 2025—evident of the growing number of taxpayers opting to settle their obligations through various electronic payment channels.

 

Dedicated booths during the Kickoff event provided live demonstrations of these digital tools, guiding stakeholders on how to maximize the new platforms and reinforcing the Bureau’s commitment to proactive taxpayer assistance.

Gracing the event was Department of Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go, who conveyed the Department’s continued support for the Bureau’s reform initiatives. In his audio-visual message, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. extended his warm greetings and congratulations to the Bureau as it led this year’s National Tax Campaign Kickoff.

President Marcos underscored that the campaign theme, “Mahusay na Serbisyo, Katumbas ng Buwis Mo,” reflects the administration’s commitment to strengthening reforms and improving policies in pursuit of a Bagong Pilipinas for every Filipino.

"I send my warmest greetings and congratulations to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) as you lead this year’s National Tax Campaign Kickoff. Ang inyong tema, "Mahusay na Serbisyo, Katumbas ng Buwis mo" ay malinaw na paalala ng pangako ng ating administrasyon sa pagpapaigting ng reporma at pag-aayos ng mga polisiya tungo sa hinahangad nating bagong Pilipinas para sa bawat Pilipino.

The BIR is in the business of revenue generation and its reform program must remain anchored on that singular goal—generating the resources needed to fund vital public services. So, I remind the BIR that revenue collection rests on public trust and therefore ensure that our reforms are geared towards making our tax system more transparent and more predictable. Make tax compliance easier and implementation fair and firm.

Binabati ko rin ang ating mga taxpayer na patuloy na nag-cocomply at nagbabayad ng wastong buwis. Kayo ang kaagapay ng pamahalaan sa pagpapalago ng ating ekonomiya at sa pagsusulong ng pag-unlad ng ating bayan. Sa pagtutulungan ng pamahalaan at mamamayan, mas marami pa tayong magagawa."

In his keynote message, Commissioner Mendoza emphasized that the Bureau will continue to balance firm and fair enforcement with improved service delivery.

“We are not here today to solely give instruction to our tax collectors. We are here mainly to offer assurance to our taxpayers. We are assembled here to make a collective vow to extend great, faster and honest service to you, our taxpayers. Because BIR goals should not be expressed in BESF numbers alone. It should also be paired with client satisfaction. No matter how high the target or how hard the work, we should not lose sight of the fact that how we treat the public is as important as the bottom line—as the money we remit to the Treasury. Because when the government serves well, compliance becomes easier,” Commissioner Mendoza stated.

The official 2026 Tax Campaign logo was likewise presented during the program. The heart, rendered in the colors of the Philippine National Flag, represents the Bureau’s sincerity and dedication to the Filipino people, embodying its commitment to serve with care, integrity, and professionalism. Within the heart, the BIR and Bagong Pilipinas logos unite the Bureau’s mandate with the nation’s broader vision for progress—the BIR logo, with its pillar, eagle, three stars, united figures, and coin, symbolizes institutional strength, nationwide reach, and collective effort in taxation, while the Bagong Pilipinas logo reflects the country’s journey toward renewal and inclusive development. Their placement affirms that excellent and professional tax administration is essential to building the future that all Filipinos deserve. At the tip of the heart, two hands emerge, symbolizing the partnership between the Bureau and taxpayers—representing shared responsibility and mutual commitment, where competent, predictable, and responsive public service is matched by voluntary compliance in pursuit of national development.

The successful launch of the 2026 National Tax Campaign signals the Bureau’s readiness to sustain revenue growth, deepen digital transformation, strengthen enforcement, and uphold service excellence throughout the year.