by Alexis Tuble, Correspondent
If you’re asking yourself, “Where should I put my money this year to earn the most?” you’re not alone. With inflation still biting and expenses piling up, Filipinos are searching for smart ways to make their savings grow.
The good news: Digital banks in the Philippines are shaking up the game by offering higher returns than most traditional banks.
This article offers you a guide to the top savings accounts for 2025, their interest rates, and the requirements that you need to know before you park your money.
Digital banks in 2025
Traditional banks typically offer just 0.10% to 1% interest per year — barely enough to cover inflation.
By contrast, digital banks now promise 3% to 6% p.a., with some promos reaching double digits. Lower overhead costs allow them pass savings back to consumers in the form of better rates, no-frills apps, and minimal fees.
But remember: higher interest often comes with strings attached, such as minimum deposits, balance caps, or lock-in periods.
Top savings accounts 2025: Who’s leading the pack?
Here are digital banks now making waves with some of the most competitive savings deals in 2025:
1. Maya Bank – Everyday banking with bonus interest
- Interest Rate: Base ~3.5% p.a., boosted up to 15% via promos
- Minimum Deposit: As low as ₱250
- Requirements: Higher rates unlock when you pay bills, shop with your Maya card, or scan to pay. Bonus rates usually apply to balances up to ₱100,000.
2. Tonik Digital Bank – Flexible and goal-friendly
- Interest Rate: 4% p.a. on “Stashes”; up to 6% p.a. on time deposits
- Minimum Deposit: Varies by product
- Requirements: Stashes are flexible, but time deposits require a lock-in period.
3. UNO Digital Bank – Straightforward returns
- Interest Rate: 4% p.a. on savings; up to 5.25% p.a. on time deposits
- Minimum Deposit: Small, depending on product
- Requirements: Time deposits require a 3–12 month commitment.
4. CIMB Bank – Trusted and widely used
- Interest Rate: Competitive savings rates; time deposits up to 6% p.a.
- Minimum Deposit: Required for time deposits
- Requirements: Funds must remain untouched for the chosen term.
5. BanKo – Community-focused banking
- Interest Rate: Around 5% p.a. for select savings accounts
- Minimum Deposit: ~₱5,000 depending on the account type
- Requirements: Maintain account activity and balances to unlock perks.
Money hacks: How to maximize your savings
Getting the highest advertised rate doesn’t always mean you’ll walk away with the biggest earnings. To make sure your savings work harder for you in 2025, here are some strategies worth considering:
Mix savings and time deposits
Don’t keep all your money in one type of account. Use regular savings accounts for your emergency fund, where you can withdraw anytime without penalties. For the extra cash you won’t need immediately, lock it into time deposits. This way, you enjoy easy access for daily needs while your surplus earns a higher guaranteed rate.
Chase promos wisely
Some banks, like Maya, dangle sky-high promo rates — up to 15% in some cases. While these are enticing, they often require frequent app usage, bill payments, or card transactions. If those activities fit your lifestyle, then you’re getting a real boost. But if you’re spending money just to qualify, the promo might end up costing you more than it gives back.
Watch the balance caps
Many digital banks only apply their best interest rates up to a certain amount — often ₱100,000. Once you go beyond that cap, the rest of your balance may earn only the base rate, which can be significantly lower. To maximize returns, consider splitting your savings across multiple banks that offer higher capped rates.
Stay PDIC-safe
The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) protects up to ₱1 million per depositor per bank. If you have more than that in savings, don’t risk putting it all in one institution. Diversify across different banks so every peso remains covered by insurance, giving you both growth and peace of mind.
Plan for lock-in periods
Time deposits often require you to commit your money for a fixed term, such as three, six, or twelve months. While these accounts offer better rates, withdrawing early usually comes with penalties or loss of interest. Before you lock in, make sure the funds you’re setting aside are truly surplus money you won’t need anytime soon.
Why digital banks are winning in 2025
If you’re chasing the highest savings interest rates in 2025, it’s time to look beyond traditional banks. With rates stuck at a fraction of a percent, keeping your money in a brick-and-mortar bank means your savings barely move. The real winners this year are digital banks, where earning 4% to 6% per annum is already the standard — and where savvy savers can unlock even higher returns through promos and time deposits.
But chasing high numbers isn’t enough. The smartest approach is to build a balanced savings strategy that combines growth with accessibility.
Here are a few more tips:
1) Use digital savings accounts for liquidity — Think of your digital savings account as your financial safety net. It’s where you should keep your emergency fund—money you might need at a moment’s notice. Digital banks give you better rates than traditional banks while still letting you withdraw instantly when life throws surprises your way.
2) Place surplus money in time deposits — For money you won’t touch anytime soon, time deposits are your best friend. By locking in your funds for a few months, you enjoy higher guaranteed returns without the temptation to dip into it. It’s a great way to let your extra cash work harder while you focus on daily spending.
3) Diversify across banks to stay PDIC-safe — While chasing higher returns, don’t forget safety. The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) only covers up to ₱1 million per depositor per bank. That means if you’re saving more than that, spreading your money across multiple digital banks not only maximizes your interest but also ensures your funds remain fully insured.
Smart money hack 2025: Go digital, go diversified
At the end of the day, saving smart in 2025 is all about strategy.
Use digital banks for liquidity, secure higher rates with time deposits, and diversify your funds to stay protected.
In short, this year’s money hack is simple but powerful: go digital, go diversified, and let your savings grow smarter.
Additional insights: Looking ahead beyond 2025
Digital banking in the Philippines is still evolving, and what we’re seeing now is only the beginning. Over the next few years, more players are expected to enter the market, bringing with them even more competitive rates, better mobile features, and innovative savings products. For Filipinos, this means more choices, stronger financial inclusion, and a greater push toward cashless lifestyles.
At the same time, regulators are expected to tighten oversight to ensure consumer safety, transparency, and long-term sustainability of these digital platforms. For savers, this is good news: as competition heats up, interest rates may rise further, and banking services will likely become more customer-centric.
So if you’ve been on the fence about digital savings, 2025 is the year to take action. Even small deposits can make a meaningful difference when compounded over time. The earlier you start, the sooner you’ll see the benefits of letting your money work for you in smarter, more strategic ways.
