BanKo, the microfinance arm of the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), is taking a major step in its digital transformation by partnering with ACI Worldwide, a global payments technology provider. The collaboration will implement ACI’s issuing and acquiring platform, modernizing BanKo’s payments infrastructure and enabling fast, seamless omnichannel transactions.

Real-Time, Omnichannel Payments

ACI’s platform supports real-time transaction processing across ATMs, POS systems, and mobile channels while maintaining regulatory compliance. Its modular architecture allows banks and fintechs to quickly roll out new services, ensuring scalability, flexibility, and high availability. For BanKo, this means a payments system capable of handling growing transaction volumes while enhancing the customer experience.

Rod Mabiasen, BanKo President, emphasized the impact: “Our switching network is one of the most important touchpoints for our customers. This partnership with ACI is crucial in building a reliable, future-ready payments system.”

A Transformative Upgrade

The new platform will replace BanKo’s existing switch and is expected to go live by the end of Q1 2026. With this upgrade, BanKo aims to deliver faster, more reliable payment services to millions of Filipinos nationwide, aligning with evolving customer expectations and growing digital banking needs.

Leslie Choo, Senior VP and Managing Director – APAC at ACI Worldwide, highlighted the significance: “With BanKo’s adoption, we’re bringing proven global technology to the Philippines that translates to greater reliability, convenience, and choice in every transaction for Filipino consumers. Together, we are strengthening the foundation for a more inclusive and innovative payment ecosystem.”

Driving Financial Inclusion

BanKo’s partnership with ACI reflects a broader trend in Southeast Asia: microfinance institutions leveraging advanced payment platforms to expand access, increase operational efficiency, and enhance financial inclusion. By modernizing its switching network, BanKo positions itself to support the growing demand for digital banking solutions while maintaining security and compliance standards.