Buhayin, an advocacy agency for emerging island hubs, has partnered with Bitget Wallet and Bitget to drive financial and digital inclusion in Siargao. The partnership will officially kick off during Buhayin’s week-long island fiesta, Kapit-Isla Siargao, from March 12 to 16, 2025. The collaboration aims to introduce local businesses and residents to blockchain-based financial tools while also providing digital literacy programs on decentralized finance (DeFi) and its benefits.
“Financial and digital inclusion is key to empowering island destinations like Siargao. By providing access to digital tools and education, we foster economic growth, resilience, and sustainability,” said Justin Wee, Founder of Buhayin.
At the heart of this partnership is the launch of PayFi, Bitget Wallet’s new payment system that bridges traditional finance with blockchain technology. PayFi allows local businesses to accept stablecoins and digital assets for instant transactions, granting more payment options for tourists, digital nomads, and crypto users at these local establishments. Through this partnership, Buhayin and Bitget Wallet are paving the way to make Siargao a model for a digitally empowered, sustainable island economy.
Kapit-Isla Week (March 12-16) is Buhayin’s flagship event—an adaptive island fiesta blending culture, sustainability, and community. Key highlights during the week include Run for the Islands, a run to champion environmental conservation in partnership with Rockwell Run Club and KidsforKids; Kamustahan sa Siargao, a community forum uniting island leaders, hosted by Lamari Resort; Salt and Sun Market, a marketplace spotlighting local businesses and artisans, hosted by Bar Ciao and powered by Mindanao Goes Solar; and Siesta sa Siargao, a barangay fiesta-inspired party to encourage foreigners to support local establishments, hosted by Tiki Hut and Saint Thomas.
A Strategic Partnership with Bitget Wallet
Buhayin envisions bringing Kapit-Isla to more island destinations across the Philippines, with Dumaguete set as the next stop this July. This expansion underscores one of its core priorities: fostering digital empowerment and bridging technological gaps in underserved areas. Bitget Wallet supports this vision by democratizing financial access for underserved communities through its digital payment solutions, providing an added choice for consumers who want to explore cryptocurrency as part of their financial habits.
“Blockchain technology can bridge economic gaps, and this partnership brings that vision closer to reality,” said Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet. “With Bitget Wallet, we enable safe and effective digital financial adoption for long-term benefits.”
