The Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has partnered with GCash to expand its cashless disbursement system under the Financial Assistance System Transformation (FAST) Project, an initiative aimed at making social assistance faster, more efficient, and more transparent for beneficiaries across the region.
The strategic partnership expands the reach of the FAST Project, making financial assistance more accessible and convenient to receive, particularly for families living in remote and underserved communities.
“The FAST Project was designed to make social protection faster, more transparent and direct,” said MSSD Minister Raissa H. Jajurie. “By bringing GCash onboard, we’re cutting down waiting times and making sure financial aid goes safely and seamlessly to Bangsamoro families and communities who need it most.”
Under the partnership, MSSD beneficiaries will receive customized Bangsamoro Cards powered by GCash, which function both as identification and cashless payment tools. The cards enable users to withdraw funds, make purchases, and access essential financial services even without a smartphone, helping ensure that more people can participate in the region’s growing digital financial ecosystem.
The expansion will directly support key MSSD flagship programs under the FAST Project, including educational assistance through Angat Bangsamoro: Kabataan Tungo sa Karunungan (ABaKa), livelihood support through Bangsamoro Sagip Kabuhayan (BSK), and emergency assistance through the Bangsamoro Critical Assistance to Indigents in Response to Emergency Situations (BCARES).
“For GCash, BARMM communities are our priority sector,” said Paul Albano, GCash for Business general manager. “Digital finance reach in these areas has historically lagged, which is why we are doubling down on our efforts. By working closely with MSSD, we are providing accessible and culturally responsive solutions that help ensure the success of the FAST Project and other government programs.”
By expanding the FAST Project through GCash’s digital Funds Disbursement Service (FDS), MSSD strengthens its commitment to modern governance, greater accountability, and inclusive development. Beneficiaries across BARMM can now receive assistance through a platform designed to be more convenient, secure, and widely accessible.
GCash continues to work with national government agencies, local governments, and ministries to advance digital transformation and help ensure that social assistance, livelihood support, and emergency aid reach Filipinos efficiently—particularly those in priority and underserved communities.
