PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL

New York, 13 January 2023 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York kicked off the new year with a “fintech”[1] literacy forum, in partnership with the International Society of Filipinos in Finance and Accounting (ISFFA) – New York Chapter, on Thursday, 12 January 2023, at the Philippine Center.

Intended to be a three-part series, the first forum, dubbed as “Blockchain Basics,” provided an overview of Blockchain –the groundbreaking financial technology at the heart of bitcoin, ethereum, non-fungible tokens (NFT), and other virtual currencies. The benefits, risks and untapped potential of the blockchain network were also discussed in layman’s terms.

Speaking on behalf of Consul General Senen T. Mangalile, Vice Consul Tanya Faye O. Ramiro welcomed the audience who consisted of professionals in the financial services sector and members of the public. “As fintech has woven itself into the very fabric of our everyday lives, from our business dealings to personal relationships, it is already part of one’s “financial well-being” to better understand fintech,” she said. She added that the Philippine Consulate looks forward to seeing Filipino-Americans contribute to further innovations in this industry.

The following served as resource speakers and shared their expertise and experiences in utilizing Blockchain –

• Kristina Tubera – an engineer, influencer, and public speaker. Ms. Tubera is also the founder of “Crypto Daddies” (FKA Femme Finance), a grassroots education movement for Gen-Z minorities focused on the topics of finance, tech, and blockchain;
• Krystl Fabella – founder of “Filipina on the Rise” (FOTR), a media company and leading podcast seeking to increase positive representation and empowerment of Filipino women. FOTR successfully launched the first ever NFT collection for Filipino American creatives;
• Nicole Cacal – founder and CEO of “Forbes Ignite,” a consultancy firm that advises leading companies on sustainable information and a leadership network that unites global change makers at the center of technology, sustainability, and social impact; and
• Michael Gonzales – partner of “Ernst & Young,” who leads the development audit methodology and enablement for blockchain-based business activities and digital asset investments.

The second part of the series is scheduled tentatively on 16 February. END

[1] Portmanteau of “financial technology”