Micro entreps honored at Digital Financial Inclusion Awards

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Citi Foundation, and the Microfinance Council of the Philippines Inc. (MCPI) honored 16 micro-entrepreneurs and four microfinance institutions (MFIs) for their innovative use of digital solutions to transform businesses and uplift communities.

At the 3rd Digital Financial Inclusion Awards (DFIA), held Friday at the BSP office in Manila, the spotlight was on micro-entrepreneurs who integrated digital tools into their operations and MFIs that championed innovative financial services. 

The event highlighted the critical role of digital transformation in fostering inclusive economic growth.

The 16 award-winning micro-entrepreneurs represented diverse industries, including food production, retail, and manufacturing. Each received P100,000 in cash prizes and laptops to support the growth of their businesses. 

The recognized individuals were Jaydee Abraham, Ligaya Arculo, Junbert Bentulan, Gregoria Bernabe, Helen Cedullo, Shanie Lou Depalubos, Hayreen Ecura, Ma. Lourdes Endriga, Teodoro Lamang Jr., Jessica Lavarias, Sunshine Genevive Mollintas, Ricardo Santos, Layzel Soto, Jaeme Tagle, Renalyn Tatad, and Melanie Torres.

The four honored MFIs—Alalay sa Kaunlaran Microfinance Social Development Inc., Community Economic Ventures Inc., RAFI Micro-Finance Inc., and Tulay sa Pag-Unlad Inc.—also received P100,000 each for their efforts in advancing financial inclusion through digital innovation.

Special citations were given to BPI Direct BanKo Inc. and the National Confederation of Cooperatives for their pioneering work in digitalization.

BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr. lauded the awardees for their contributions to digital inclusion, stating, “You have all shown how digitalization can unlock huge inclusion opportunities. Your efforts help build a future where financial inclusion is not just a buzzword, but a reality for everyone.”

Citi Philippines CEO Paul Favila emphasized the transformative potential of digital tools, noting that digitalization is essential for micro-entrepreneurs to scale, streamline operations, and connect with broader markets. 

Favila also underscored the importance of investing in digital literacy, infrastructure, and inclusive policies to ensure no one is left behind.