Jaime Aristotle B. Alip, PhD
When microentrepreneurs go digital: More inspiring stories
January 20, 2025 1:10 am
Last week, I wrote about two remarkable winners of the 3rd Digital Financial Inclusion Awards (DFIA), an initiative celebrating microfinance clients who have harnessed digital solutions to revolutionize their small businesses. There is special kind of joy in writing our clients’ success stories as they inspire hope, reassuring ordinary Filipinos that a better life is always possible. This is also my way of celebrating the microfinance industry’s contribution to nation-building.
Digitalization and microentrepreneurs: Stories of transformation
January 12, 2025 11:42 pm
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) recently lifted its moratorium on new electronic money issuers from non-bank financial institutions (EMI-NBFIs). This progressive move opens the doors for financing companies, microfinance institutions (MFIs), credit cooperatives, and other non-bank entities to provide e-money services. For small businesses and microentrepreneurs, this means enhanced access to financial tools that can streamline operations and connect them with a broader customer base, both locally and globally.
Honoring digital champions
January 06, 2025 1:05 am
As we welcome the new year, I am delighted to highlight how digitalization is driving financial inclusion in the Philippines, bridging gaps in access to financial services for unbanked and underserved communities. Mobile wallets, digital banking apps, and fintech platforms have revolutionized how individuals save, transfer money, and access credit. With the country’s high mobile penetration and growing internet connectivity, digital solutions are empowering millions of Filipinos to join the formal economy, fostering economic growth and reducing inequality.
Boundless hope
December 29, 2024 11:12 pm
Christmas is the season of warmth and togetherness. I spent Christmas week surrounded by family and loved ones. Though work continued, the Christmas spirit infused every moment: meetings were filled with shared laughter, and meaningful traditions brought joy to our offices. Whether through gift-giving, reflecting, or simply cherishing each other’s presence, the holidays reminded us of the love and connection that make life truly special. I hope this was true for everyone.
SineMaya: Community films that uplift and inspire
December 22, 2024 5:51 pm
Last week, I wrote about the 2024 SineMaya Community Film Festival, the microfinance industry’s version of Cinemalaya. The SineMaya film fest also aims to promote Filipino independent films, but it is focused on the clients of microfinance and social development organizations that work with poor and marginalized communities. SineMaya features films that are written, produced, and performed by the clients themselves, bringing their real stories to life, on-screen.