Charting the future of inclusive finance

On July 30-31, the Microfinance Council of the Philippines, Inc. (MCPI) will convene its Annual Conference at Century Park Hotel, Manila, under the theme "Microfinance and Sustainable Finance for the Poor.

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With over 500 expected participants — microfinance institution (MFI) leaders, regulators, government officials, and development partners — the event promises to shape the national conversation on how finance can be more inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to the realities of the poor.

The conference will feature key discussions on:

• Integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in regulation and institutional strategies

• The Philippines' economic outlook

• Sustainable finance for agriculture

• Incorporating gender sensitivity in microfinance

• Increasing staff satisfaction and well-being in MFIs

Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, a longtime advocate for social entrepreneurship and inclusive growth, will deliver the keynote address. The gathering aims to deepen cross-sector collaboration and chart forward-looking strategies that address poverty, vulnerability to climate change, and financial resilience of low-income communities.

This conference is more than a venue for policy dialogue — it is also a continuation of a movement that celebrates and empowers the lifeblood of inclusive finance: the operations staff working in the field.

Operations staff summit

Last June 10-11, MCPI also held the Microfinance Operations Staff Summit, bringing together almost 300 participants coming from 41 MFIs across the country. Led by MCPI Chairperson Gilbert “Gomby” Maramba, the summit shone a well-deserved spotlight on field staff as the mission-bearers of inclusive financial services.