by Jade Saavedra, Correspondent
UnionDigital Bank (UD), the digital banking subsidiary of Union Bank of the Philippines, has officially launched its “Kaya Mo” movement, an initiative aimed at expanding financial inclusion and empowering unbanked Filipinos. The announcement was made at a recent event that gathered key partners, fintech leaders, and community representatives.
The “Kaya Mo” movement is rooted in UD’s commitment to providing accessible and intuitive digital banking services, particularly for the estimated 37.6 million Filipino adults currently outside the formal banking system. The program targets first-time users, including sari-sari store owners, ride-sharing drivers, daily wage earners, and informal sector workers.
UnionDigital vows to empower Filipinos thru technology and partnership
Wealth Coach Chinkee Tan
During the launch event, attendees heard personal accounts from microentrepreneurs who shared their financial challenges, underscoring the practical need for UD’s mission to deliver credit, savings, and digital financial tools. Wealth coach Chinkee Tan also led a session on financial education, emphasizing budgeting, saving, and responsible borrowing.
“At UD, financial inclusion isn’t just a mission — it’s the lens through which we grow and serve our communities,” stated Danilo “Bong” Mojica II, PhD, President and CEO of UD. “We design technology around real people, helping every Filipino — regardless of income or background — access tools that empower them to take charge of their financial journey.”
Danilo “Bong” Mojica II, PhD, President & CEO of UnionDigital Bank, unveils the “Kaya Mo” movement, highlighting UD’s commitment to inclusive digital banking and uplifting underserved communities.
“Through the ‘Kaya Mo’ movement, we’re not just providing banking — we’re partnering with our customers and communities to help them start, recover, and thrive. Because when people are truly empowered, inclusion becomes transformation,” Mojica further stated.
Product offerings to support financial empowerment
The “Kaya Mo” Movement is supported by a growing suite of financial products designed to meet the specific needs of underserved Filipinos. UD’s basic savings account, UD Save, features no minimum balance and zero maintenance fees. The UD Time Deposit allows customers to begin saving with as little as ₱1,000, which UD states is the lowest entry option among digital banks in the country.
Current credit offerings, UD Loans, are available via a microsite to select UnionBank payroll clients and pensioners, providing flexible installment terms for essential needs.
UnionDigital Bank also announced upcoming product expansions.
Soon to be launched via the UD app is UD Cash Loans, a simplified digital loan product for first-time borrowers that aims to remove requirements for collateral and extensive documentation. The bank will also introduce a virtual card powered by VISA, facilitating secure online transactions without a physical card. Additional features in development include early wage access and microinsurance offerings, designed to provide financial confidence and protection.
Mike Magpily, Chief Marketing Officer of UnionDigital Bank, commented, “Kaya Mo is our promise to make financial inclusion real. We’re not just offering hope, we’re introducing products that help Filipinos take control of their money: from getting a loan when it matters, to saving for emergencies, to managing everyday expenses through a digital bank built for real life. It’s simple, accessible, and built around how Filipinos actually live, earn, and spend. Just to prove that kaya talaga ng Pilipino na umasenso.”
Collaboration for broader impact
A panel discussion at the event featured representatives from mWell, a digital health and wellness platform, and Hapinoy, a social enterprise supporting microentrepreneurs.
Mark Joaquin Ruiz, Co-Founder and President of Hapinoy, highlighted the tangible impact of financial access. “Access to finance is one thing—but the gift of seeing a brighter future and having the agency to make it happen is what truly changes lives,” Ruiz stated, noting how Hapinoy has observed sari-sari store owners transition from day-to-day survival to longer-term financial planning with UnionDigital Bank’s support.
UnionDigital Bank employs alternative data in its credit models, enabling the extension of credit to individuals without traditional financial histories, thereby including those typically excluded from the formal financial system. This approach aims to responsibly serve more Filipinos while effectively managing risk.
The launch concluded with UnionDigital Bank representatives and partners affirming a unified commitment to the “Kaya Mo” movement. “We’re not just refreshing how we look; we’re refreshing how we serve,” Mojica concluded. “We want to continue to be a true partner in every Filipino’s journey—from meeting daily needs to securing the future. With UD, Kaya Mo.”
UnionDigital Bank is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and aims to contribute to financial inclusion for Filipinos by offering accessible financial tools, lending solutions, and customer-focused innovations.