At the Manila Tech Summit 2025, fintech firm Pay&Go pushed forward the conversation on financial inclusion, unveiling a cash-out service integrated into its network of self-service kiosks.
The feature, showcased during the summit held Aug. 26-27 at Shangri-La The Fort in Bonifacio Global City, allows users to withdraw money directly from kiosks that were previously limited to payments and basic transactions. Several banks have already partnered with Pay&Go, while others expressed interest after testing the new service.
“Self-service kiosks are increasingly visible in rural areas, proof that Filipinos want access to financial services,” said Dan Ibarra, CEO of Pay&Go. “With over 3,000 machines nationwide, from urban centers to the most remote towns, we’re helping bridge the gap between owning an account and actively using it.”
Financial inclusion remains a challenge in the Philippines. Despite rising digital adoption, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported that 44% of Filipino adults remained unbanked as of 2023. Infrastructure gaps, particularly in remote areas, continue to limit access to basic financial services.
By enabling cash withdrawals, Pay&Go positions its kiosks as multipurpose financial touchpoints. The approach highlights how private sector innovation can supplement traditional banking channels in expanding access to the grassroots population.
“Financial inclusion is a shared mission, one that demands collaboration among government, private sector, and community stakeholders to ensure that no one is left behind,” he said during a panel on financial health.
Pay&Go’s rollout underscores the growing role of fintech solutions in addressing accessibility challenges and building a more inclusive digital economy in the Philippines.