Tech firm eyes spreading online protection tools

Technology firm Tools for Humanity, the team behind the World ID project, is eyeing a wider rollout of its digital tools in the Philippines, banking on the country’s young, digitally savvy population and growing demand for secure online platforms.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Tools for Humanity chief product officer Tiago Sada said the company is leveraging the Philippines’ young, digitally savvy population and growing middle class, which are fueling strong demand for emerging technologies and financial tools.

Sada said the Philippines is a strategic testbed for innovations like World App’s Mini Apps ecosystem, which promotes digital access while closing gaps in online protection.

“The Philippines has one of the world’s most digitally engaged populations. We are excited to work with developers and partners here to co-create Mini Apps, designed by Filipinos for Filipinos, that promote trust and usability online,” Sada said.

Limited mart access

Mini Apps — lightweight services built on proof-of-human verification — are gaining traction in markets with limited access to banking and government infrastructure. Sada said the company is working with local developer talents to accelerate the tool’s rollout.

The push for locally developed digital tools comes as the Philippines dropped two spots to 61st out of 67 countries in the 2024 World Digital Competitiveness Ranking by the Institute for Management Development.

The country slipped in both knowledge and technology categories but posted slight gains in future-readiness, with strengths noted in the number of science graduates, female researchers, and telecom infrastructure investments.