Manila: Users of e-wallet GCash may now invest in selected government securities, the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) said Friday. In a statement, the BTr announced that selected government securities, such as Treasury bills (T-bills), are now accessible on GBonds, a new investment platform created through its partnership with GCash, the Philippine Digital Asset Exchange (PDAX), Inc., and Bonds.ph, Inc.

According to Philippines News Agency, GBonds in the GCash App serves as a marketplace that allows users to invest in government bonds with free top-ups and withdrawals, alongside standard fees for buying or selling bonds. The platform offers T-Bills for a minimum of PHP500 and Retail Treasury Bonds (RTBs) for a minimum of PHP5,000 during their primary offering. This initiative supports the BTr's commitment to financial inclusion by allowing Filipinos to invest in government securities through their mobile devices, even without a bank account.

This move is part of the BTr's ongoing efforts to broaden retail investor participation, promote financial literacy and inclusion, and deepen the domestic debt market. The BTr stated that RTBs will also be offered on the platform soon, aligning with the next RTB issuance. National Treasurer Sharon Almanza emphasized the platform's role in connecting the government securities market with millions of Filipinos, stating, "By making these investment options available through mobile applications and electronic wallets, we are showing our commitment to empowering more Filipinos by providing easier access and more inclusive ways to invest."

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto added that GBonds could contribute to achieving the country's economic goals, describing it as "a powerful instrument that gives Filipinos a safe way to grow their hard-earned money while also helping build the country's future by supporting key government programs like infrastructure and education."