DoJ, GCash expand digital financial access for refugees

THE Department of Justice (DoJ) and G-Xchange, Inc. (GCash) signed a memorandum of agreement on Monday aimed at expanding access to digital financial services for refugees, asylum seekers, and stateless persons in the Philippines.

The agreement, signed through the DoJ’s Refugees and Stateless Persons Protection Unit, seeks to help persons of concern participate more fully in the economy by improving access to digital financial platforms.

Justice Secretary Fredderick A. Vida said financial inclusion has become increasingly important as financial services move to digital channels.

Mr. Vida said refugees, asylum seekers, and stateless persons often encounter challenges in accessing formal financial institutions because of documentation and verification requirements.

“It is about ensuring that refugees, asylum seekers, and stateless persons are not merely recognized under the law, but are also given a genuine opportunity to participate in society, support themselves and their families, and contribute positively to the communities in which they live,” Mr. Vida said.

The partnership with GCash represents a collaboration between the government and the private sector to promote digital financial inclusion while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulatory requirements, Mr. Vida said.

“The memorandum of agreement that we are signing today reflects a shared commitment to expand access to financial services while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulatory safeguards,” he added. — Mark Joseph M. Sanchez