Billease, one of the country’s leading consumer finance and “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) platforms, is taking a major step into full digital banking through a strategic partnership with the Rural Bank of Sta. Maria (RBSM) in Ilocos Sur.

At its “Billie and Kim’s Pamasko” event on Sunday, 8 November 2025 at SM Mall of Asia, the company formally announced its partnership with the bank, aimed at solidifying Billease’s transformation from a fintech lender into a comprehensive digital-centric financial ecosystem, aligning with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) roadmap to accelerate the country’s shift toward a more inclusive, cash-lite economy.

Founded in 2017, Billease has grown from an e-commerce installment app into one of the Philippines’ top fintech platforms, now serving over 10 million users and having disbursed more than P100 billion in loans. Backed by global investors BurdaPrincipal Investments and TPG’s The Rise Fund, Billease has built a reputation for transparent pricing and responsible lending.

“From day one, our goal has been to make credit simple and fair for every Filipino,” said Georg Steiger, Billease Co-Founder and CEO. “We’ve grown beyond installments to become part of our users’ everyday financial journey — and now, through this partnership with RBSM, we’re opening the door to a new era of inclusive digital-centric banking.”

Through its partnership with RBSM, Billease will soon roll out digital savings accounts, fund transfers via InstaPay and PESONet, QR payments, and cash in/out features — all within the Billease app. The company aims to have full implementation of these features by the third quarter of 2026.

RBSM President and CEO Dennis Valdes said the partnership “makes banking more accessible to Filipinos through technology,” noting that users can enjoy “the same security and compliance as traditional banking, but with the ease and innovation of fintech.”

Billease continues to strengthen its brand through its community-driven approach, with Kim Chiu as ambassador and an expanding “Billease Family” of customers. The company has also introduced features such as QRPh payments, NFC Tap-to-Pay, and installment plans up to 24 months, offering Filipinos flexibility and affordability in managing daily finances.

“Our vision is simple: one app for all your financial needs,” said Kurt Molina, Head of POS Products. “From buying essentials to saving and sending money, Billease is evolving into the everyday financial companion every Filipino deserves.”

Steiger added, “Our partnership with RBSM marks a pivotal step toward a future where financial inclusion is the norm, not the exception. We’re redefining how Filipinos save, borrow, and spend — all within one trusted app.”