Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Advocate for Inclusive Finance for Development (UNSGSA), arrived in the Philippines for a three-day visit to promote financial inclusion among traditionally underserved groups. One of her stops was Talim Island, a remote island in Rizal where residents have struggled to access financial services.
During her trip, Queen Máxima learned about the initiatives of CARD MRI Rizal Bank (CARD-RBI), a microfinance-oriented rural bank that has provided crucial financial services to the community on Talim Island. She was particularly impressed by the use of the mobile application konek2CARD, which has helped make financial services more accessible to the island residents.
Speaking to the media after her visit, Queen Máxima expressed admiration for the improvements she saw on Talim Island. She highlighted the importance of credit and insurance for the fishermen community, noting the positive impact on their income and financial security. The Queen also commended the use of technology, such as mobile applications, in facilitating financial transactions for the residents of the remote island.
Overall, Queen Máxima’s visit to Talim Island underscored the importance of financial inclusion for marginalized communities and the positive impact it can have on their livelihoods.
