Israel is strengthening ties with the Philippines’ financial technology sector to expand cooperation in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity ahead of the ASEAN Tech Summit Manila 2026.
Israeli Ambassador Dana Kursh met with Lito Villanueva, executive vice president of Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) and chairman of FinTech Alliance.PH, to discuss technology infrastructure, digital innovation and investment opportunities.
The meeting comes as the Philippine fintech industry advances its “80×80 Agenda,” which aims to bring 80% of Filipino adults into the formal financial system and digitize 80% of retail payments by 2028.
Villanueva said the discussions centered on innovation, technology adoption and strengthening digital ecosystems.
“The engagement highlighted shared priorities around innovation, technology adoption, and strengthening digital ecosystems,” he said.
The Israeli delegation, which included trade mission head Ofek Venecianer, also expressed support for the upcoming ASEAN Tech Summit Manila 2026, which is expected to attract about 4,000 international delegates.
“I was delighted to discuss the growing partnership… and the opportunities ahead as we look toward ASEAN Tech Summit Manila 2026,” Kursh said.
