Manila Series
Transforming Banking for All: Talent, Tech and Trust in ASEAN
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Overview
The 6th Edition of BankTech Asia 2026: Manila Series is a premier event that brings together leaders in banking and FinTech to explore the transformative power of technology in shaping the future of finance. This year’s theme, “Transforming Banking for All: Talent, Tech and Trust in ASEAN”, the conference will delve into most pressing topics such as financial inclusion, talent gaps and tokenised assets in the Philippines. Through expert panels and a keynote presentation, participants will gain insights into emerging technologies and actionable strategies to overcome current pressing challenges. With a strong emphasis on responsible innovation and collaborative partnerships, this gathering offers a unique platform to connect with industry pioneers and peers, equipping attendees to navigate the rapidly evolving financial landscape and seize new opportunities.
Registration
6th Edition of BankTech Asia 2026 Manila Series
Opening Remarks
Opening Remarks
Speaker
Selva Nagappan
Organising Chairman: BankTech Asia 2026 Manila Series
Keynote Address
Inclusive Finance with AI: Leveraging Predictive Analytics and Automation for Underserved Communities
- Exploring how AI algorithms can analyze alternative data such as mobile usage and social graphs to credit-score unbanked rural populations, bypassing traditional barriers.
- Discussing real-world implementations like AI-powered chatbots and robo-advisors integrated with Philippine mobile wallets to personalize services and reduce costs.
Speaker
Jef Lacson
Chief Financial Officer, UnionDigital Bank, Philippines
Panel Discussion
Quantum Resistant Cybersecurity: Preparing ASEAN Banks for Post-Quantum Threats
- Identifying vulnerabilities in current encryption to quantum attacks and strategies for migrating to quantum-safe algorithms like lattice-based cryptography.
- Discussing pilot programs in fintech and tools like homomorphic encryption for secure data processing in cloud environments, with a focus on retaining talent through hands-on quantum training initiatives.
Moderator
Anna Pabellon
Country Audit and Assurance Leader, Deloitte Philippines
Panelists
John Alarcon
Adjunct Instructor, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, Philippines
Jed Kenley Chua
Chief Information Security Officer, Asia United Bank, Philippines
Panel Discussion
Boosting Talent Capabilities in the Evolving ASEAN BankTech Scene Through Upskilling and Reskilling
- Identifying critical skills shortages in AI, cybersecurity, and digital product development in the financial sector.
- Highlighting strategies to train, attract and retain top fintech talent to bridge the gap of talents in this era.
Moderator
Trissy Rogacion
Partner, M&A Corporate Finance, PwC Philippines
Panelists
Josef Matthieu Bassig
Chief Information Security Officer, Tanay Rural Bank, Philippines
Michael P. Magbanua
Senior Vice President, Group Head, Corporate and Digital Operations, UnionBank of the Philippines
Mary Celina Louies Esteva
Head of Information Technology Governance, UnionDigital Bank, Philippines
Fireside Chat
Embedded Finance and API Innovations: Restructuring BNPL with Real-Time Data Integration
- Analyzing how open banking APIs and embedded finance platforms enable seamless BNPL integrations in e-commerce, reducing fraud through real-time AI risk assessment.
- Highlighting advanced tech like blockchain-secured micro-ledgers for transparent installment tracking, and their potential to prevent over-indebtedness in the Philippine market.
Moderator
Gilbert Trinchera
Technology Consulting, R. G. Manabat & Co. (KPMG), Philippines
Panelist
Krisia Cruz
Head of Product, Tonik, Philippines
Break
Working Luncheon
Unique Format
One-to-One Meetings
A platform connecting sponsors and delegates through pre-arranged sessions.
Product Demo
Sponsors showcase innovations, giving delegates firsthand insights into their technologies.
RoundTable Discussion
Interactive forum for delegates and sponsors to exchange industry insights.