MANILA – More than 66,000 students, faculty members, and other campus stakeholders in 23 academic institutions nationwide have gained access to digital financial services through the LANDBANK Cash-Lite Campus Initiative.

Launched in April 2025, the program aims to promote financial inclusion in school communities by introducing students to digital banking tools for everyday transactions, including mobile account opening and online payment of school fees.

The initiative also provides campus food vendors, micro-merchants, and transport providers access to formal banking services, helping expand economic opportunities within participating campuses.

“LANDBANK’s Cash-Lite Campus program goes beyond making payments easier. It gives students and campus entrepreneurs practical financial tools for managing their everyday transactions. By introducing digital banking early, we help young Filipinos build responsible financial habits and prepare for an increasingly digital economy,” said LANDBANK President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz.

The program promotes the use of the LANDBANK Mobile Banking App (MBA) and the LANDBANK PISO Plus account, which may be opened through a mobile phone without an initial deposit or maintaining balance.

Participating schools may also use Link.BizPortal, LANDBANK’s online payment platform, to accept tuition and other school fees, reducing the need for over-the-counter transactions.

The initiative has been implemented in various campuses of the University of the Philippines, University of Makati, Central Luzon State University, Nueva Vizcaya State University, Southern Leyte State University, Central Mindanao University, and other State Universities and Colleges nationwide.

One of the recent rollouts was held at Western Mindanao State University in Zamboanga City, where students took part in interactive activities and financial literacy sessions covering digital banking safety, budgeting, and cyber hygiene.

“Opening an account through the LANDBANK MBA is very convenient because I no longer have to visit a branch. In just a few minutes, I can open and start using my account. It also helps me monitor my expenses, manage my budget, and transact more safely and conveniently,” said WMSU student Shieha A. Malon.

LANDBANK said its digital transformation efforts have also received international recognition, with the International Finance Awards naming the bank the Fastest Growing Digital Banking Services in the Philippines for 2026.

The award cited LANDBANK’s efforts to provide secure, accessible, and customer-centered digital banking solutions.

Through the Cash-Lite Campus Initiative, LANDBANK said it seeks to equip students with practical financial skills while expanding access to digital banking and promoting responsible money management in school communities.

The program also supports the goals of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) Agenda for inclusive growth and improved access to opportunities.