In a country where many still struggle to set aside money for the future, Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier, has made it his mission to embed the value of saving into the daily lives of Filipinos. A report from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas highlighted the low financial literacy among Filipinos, with only 25% claiming to be knowledgeable about financial concepts. This lack of awareness often leads to poor financial choices, escalating debt, and inadequate savings for emergencies.

For Lhuillier, financial inclusion is not just about providing access to services—it’s about empowering people with the discipline and confidence to build their own financial security. He believes that true financial wellness begins with the habit of saving. “When people learn to save, even in small amounts, they take the first step toward stability and opportunity,” he explains.

Under his leadership, Cebuana Lhuillier has become a key enabler of financial inclusion, helping millions of Filipinos gain access to basic financial tools that promote independence and resilience. Among these initiatives is the Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings account—a simple, low-barrier product that allows individuals to deposit even small amounts, making saving more practical and attainable for the average Filipino. Requiring only one valid ID and an initial deposit of ₱50, with no maintaining balance and nationwide accessibility, it has opened doors for first-time savers to join the formal financial system.

Micro savings embodies Lhuillier’s inclusive approach to finance. Beyond a financial product, it represents a mindset: that anyone, regardless of income level, can start building for their future. This vision aligns closely with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ financial inclusion agenda, which encourages micro-deposit products as gateways to formal banking.

Complementing this effort is Money Guro, another initiative close to Lhuillier’s heart. Through this financial literacy platform, he personally advocates for smarter money management, sharing practical lessons on saving, budgeting, and investing. By simplifying financial education, he empowers Filipinos to make informed choices and develop lifelong financial habits.

For Jean Henri Lhuillier, building a nation of savers goes beyond business—it is a social mission. Through his steadfast leadership and personal advocacy, he continues to reshape how Filipinos view money: not as something fleeting, but as something that can be grown, protected, and used to create brighter futures.