Brought about by the pandemic, the shift to online tools and services that we saw last year is evidence that our future is digital. As a result of this accelerated digital transformation, bridging the digital divide so that all Filipinos will have equal access to these services and opportunities has elevated in importance.

With more businesses and services now in the cloud, one aspect of this divide that must be bridged is that of digital financial inclusion. According to a 2019 BSP report, more than half of Filipinos are unbanked, this leaves many unable to transact remotely and digitally.

One trend that could increase the number of Filipinos benefiting from the digital transformation is the growth of digital banks. In a recent virtual town hall discussion, BSP Deputy Governor Chuchi G. Fonacier emphasized the role of digital banks and digital financial inclusion in reviving the Philippine economy. However, this new trend raises some concern, especially regarding data privacy, cybersecurity, the lack of digital infrastructure, and regulatory challenges.

In line with Stratbase ADR Institute’s particular focus on the digital transformation and its role in economic, political, and strategic issues, the Institute is organizing a virtual town hall discussion entitled “The Importance of Trust and Security for Digital Financial Inclusion.” The program will gather stakeholders from government and private sectors to share their insight on the importance of trust and security for digital banking and recommendations on how to forward digital financial inclusion.

Program

Introduction
Mr. Francesco “Paco” A. Pangalangan
Executive Director, Stratbase ADR Institute

Opening Remarks
Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” C. Manhit
President, Stratbase ADR Institute

Speakers

Atty. Anna Benjieline Puzon
Attorney III of the Policy Review Division,
National Privacy Commission

Mr. Melchor Plabasan
Director, Technology Risk and Innovation Supervision Department,
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)

Atty. Jose Jesus “JJ” M. Disini
Managing Partner, Disini & Disini Law Office;
Professor, University of the Philippines – College of Law

Mr. Milan Patel
Global Head of Managed Security Services,
BlueVoyant

Mr. Micah Heaton
Director of Microsoft Security Solutions,
BlueVoyant

Closing Remarks
Mr. Francesco “Paco” A. Pangalangan
Executive Director, Stratbase ADR Institute