Cryptocurrency isnât just a buzzword anymoreâitâs becoming a real part of everyday life for millions of Filipinos. As of 2025, about 6% of the population in the Philippines owns crypto, and that number is growing. But whatâs behind this rising interest? Why are more Filipinos getting into digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and even local stablecoins?
Letâs take a closer look at the trends, the people involved, and how this shift could reshape the way we handle money in the Philippines.
Financial Inclusion: Crypto as a Lifeline
A big part of cryptoâs popularity in the Philippines comes down to access. A lot of Filipinosâespecially those in rural areasâstill donât have bank accounts. In fact, around 44% of the adult population was unbanked just a few years ago.
Apps like Coins.ph, GCash, and Maya have helped bridge that gap. These apps let users store money, pay bills, and even buy crypto without stepping foot in a bank. For many, itâs their first experience with any kind of financial serviceâand itâs all happening through their smartphones.
Sending Money Made Easier (and Cheaper!)
Did you know that Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) send home more than $30 billion every year? Thatâs a huge part of the economy. But sending money through traditional channels can be expensive and slow.
Thatâs where crypto and stablecoins come in. Digital tokens pegged to the U.S. dollar or the Philippine pesoâlike USDT, USDC, and the upcoming PHPCâmake remittances faster and cheaper. Families save on fees and get their money quicker. Itâs a win-win.
The Axie Effect: Gaming Introduced Millions to Crypto
Remember when Axie Infinity was all over the news? During the pandemic, Filipinos dove into play-to-earn (P2E) games to make extra money. For many, it was their first time setting up a digital wallet or using a crypto exchange.
Even though the P2E hype has cooled down, it introduced blockchain tech to everyday users. It taught people how crypto worksâwithout needing a finance degree.
The Youth Are Leading the Way
Filipino crypto investors are mostly youngâbetween 18 and 35 years old. And theyâre learning from TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook. Influencers and content creators are constantly talking about trading, NFTs, and blockchain opportunities.
With the Philippines ranking high in time spent online, it’s no surprise that Gen Z and millennials are diving into Web3, exploring crypto as their version of financial independence.
Trading Is Easier Than Ever
Gone are the days when crypto was confusing or hard to access. Platforms like Binance, UEEx, Maya, and Coins.ph have made it simple for beginners to get started. Most of them offer:
- Low deposits (as little as â±100!)
- Easy-to-use apps
- Direct crypto-to-peso conversions
- Free educational content
If youâve got a smartphone, youâre already halfway there.
Regulation That Actually Helps
Unlike other countries that have banned or restricted crypto, the Philippine government is taking a more open approach. Agencies like the BSP and SEC are creating safe spaces for innovation through their regulatory sandbox programs.
Theyâve also licensed dozens of Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs)âadding a layer of trust and protecting users from scams. This clarity and support give Filipinos more confidence to invest and explore.
So, Whatâs Next?
Crypto in the Philippines isnât just a passing trendâitâs a growing part of daily life. From remittances and savings to investing and gaming, more and more Pinoys are finding value in the digital economy.
As tech advances and regulation keeps pace, the 6% ownership rate weâre seeing now might just be the beginning. The Philippines has the potential to lead Southeast Asia in crypto adoption, and weâre already on our way.
Whether youâre new to crypto or already trading, one thingâs clear: Filipinos are embracing financial freedom like never before. And with the tools, tech, and talent we have today, the future is definitely digital.
