CARD Bank Launches Upgraded konek2CARD App at 28th Anniversary Celebration

CARD Bank, a microfinance-oriented rural bank, celebrated its 28th anniversary with the official launch of the upgraded version of its mobile banking application, konek2CARD. The event took place in Brgy. Santisimo Rosario, San Pablo City—considered the birthplace of CARD MRI’s digital transformation.

“It was right here in this barangay where the digital community of CARD MRI began. That is why it holds a special place in our hearts,” shared CARD Bank President and CEO Marivic Austria, recalling the app’s early beginnings in 2017.

Austria also emphasized the significance of the upgrade, stating, “This upgraded version of konek2CARD, with faster and improved features, is a symbol of the digital innovation we continuously develop for our clients. It is our way of making products and services more inclusive to everyone we serve.”

Expanded Access and New Features

Previously available only on the Google Play Store, the new version of konek2CARD can now be downloaded from the Apple App Store and Huawei App Gallery, making it more accessible to a wider range of CARD MRI clients.

Among the key enhancements are biometric security features, enabling users to log in using fingerprint or facial recognition, offering both speed and added protection. Users can also instantly view account balances upon logging in and save account numbers from interbank transfers for faster, more accurate repeat transactions.

The app’s interface now features an intuitive icon-based layout, further simplifying the user experience.

Currently, the upgraded konek2CARD is available exclusively at CARD Bank branches in San Pablo City. However, a nationwide rollout is scheduled for September 22, 2025, with plans to expand access to CARD SME Bank clients in the coming months.

Celebrity Endorsement and Milestone Celebration

The double celebration also introduced JC Santos as the new celebrity ambassador of konek2CARD. The actor extended his congratulations and support to the institution during the launch.

The event was also attended by CARD MRI Founder and Chairman Emeritus Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip, along with members of the Executive and Management Committee, staff, and clients.

Toward Becoming a Commercial Bank

Looking ahead, CARD Bank is preparing for a major transition. Dr. Alip announced the institution’s plans to become a commercial bank by next year, a move that will allow it to offer a broader range of financial services.

“As a microfinance-oriented rural bank, we face certain limitations in the services we offer. By becoming a commercial bank, we will be able to broaden our financial services and meet the growing demands of our clients,” Dr. Alip explained.

With this shift, CARD Bank aims to better serve the families and relatives of its clients working overseas. Unlike traditional commercial banks that often focus on corporate clients, CARD Bank plans to make investment products and financial opportunities more accessible to its grassroots clients.

As of July 31, 2025, CARD Bank has reached 4.4 million clients, with over 1.6 million registered users of the konek2CARD mobile app.