BSP launches mobile app to bring services closer to Filipinos

MANILA, Philippines — The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has formally launched a mobile app aimed at making central banking services and information more accessible to the public.

Although the BSP mobile app has been live since January with over 2,600 active users, it was only officially unveiled on April 14.

BSP Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said the app was developed entirely in-house by the central bank’s IT Systems Management Department.

The concept for the BSP mobile app began in December 2023. Development planning kicked off around May last year, followed by the actual development phase from June to December 2024.

Puyat credited Monetary Board Member Rosalia de Leon for originally planting the idea, drawing from her experience at the Bureau of the Treasury.

“This app allows users to check key rates and public announcements, locate BSP offices and file complaints with our chatbot in a simpler, faster and more personalized way,” she said.

The upcoming BSP E-Learning Academy will also be integrated into the mobile app, which allows users to learn more about personal finance, economics and central banking.

“This reflects our broader goal to equip Filipinos with the tools and knowledge they need to make sound financial decisions. The launch is just the beginning. We will continue improving the app,” she said.

BSP technology and digital innovation officer-in-charge Reynaldo Florencio Zipagan said the launch is a testament to the central bank’s commitment to innovation, accessibility and excellence in public service.

The BSP mobile app provides a wide range of features, including access to real-time BSP news, advisories, exchange rates and statistical reports. It is now available for download on both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Users can also locate BSP offices and coin deposit machines nationwide, customize their experience through a personalized quick access menu, and interact with BSP Online Buddy, a 24/7 chatbot designed to respond to inquiries and accept complaints, even with screenshot support.

Zipagan said that while the app’s development faced challenges, including adapting to new platforms and store deployment, the project reflects BSP’s strategic goal to engage more stakeholders as outlined in the 2024–2029 BSP Enterprise Strategy Map.

All data on the mobile app mirrors information from the BSP website, ensuring accuracy and real-time updates for its users.