Fintech industry welcomes Tangonan appointment to BSP

The country’s Digital Finance Trade Organization Fintech Alliance.ph welcomes the appointment of Mamerto “Mert” Tangonan as the very first deputy governor for payments and currency of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Tonganan’s historic addition to the roster of central bank officials comes at the heels of BSP’s announcement of its 2023 target for digital payments transformation for a cash-lite economy.

Financial technology and digital industry players throw their support behind Tangonan whose marching orders include the strengthening of customer preference for digital payments and the introduction of more innovative and responsive digital financial services.

“Mert has been instrumental in the promotion of electronic payments in the Philippines and addressing gaps in the digital payments ecosystem,” said Lito Villanueva, chairman of Fintech Alliance.ph and Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer of Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation. “As he transitions into his new role in the government, Mert can expect the industry’s active support and dynamic collaboration in ensuring his success.”

“I pray for your success in promoting BSP’s thrust in creating a sustainable and robust digital economy,” Villanueva added.

Mert previously led the USAID-funded program on E-PESO as chief of party of Chemonics International. His work helped accelerate the shift of the Philippine economy from cash to digital payments to achieve broad-based growth and financial inclusion.