Interview #4: Robrina Go
- liammgould11
- Apr 24
- 1 min read
I just concluded a conversation with Ms. Robbie Go, Country Head of UBS Philippines, and our discussion reinforced how important long-term financial thinking is to building real economic security in the Philippines. Ms. Go explained that many Filipinos are hardworking, creative, and naturally entrepreneurial, but often struggle to plan far into the future when it comes to money. She connected this not only to culture, but also to gaps in formal education, since basic financial concepts like saving, investing, debt, risk, and long-term goal-setting are still not consistently taught in schools. Without that foundation, many people are left to learn through experience, and for those in the informal sector or living on daily wages, financial planning can feel almost impossible.
A major theme was access, such as access to banks, formal credit, financial education, and better tools for decision-making. Ms. Go explained how many Filipinos rely on informal borrowing because opening a bank account or qualifying for a loan can be intimidating or out of reach, which can lead to cycles of debt when interest costs pile up. She also pointed to fintech platforms, such as GCash, as one way more people are beginning to access small loans and financial services outside traditional banking. We also discussed what young people should learn before adulthood, including the difference between needs and wants, the value of saving, how banks work, and why investing requires patience and an understanding of risk. Her message was especially powerful for young entrepreneurs, as she mentioned that creativity and ambition are valuable, but they must be paired with discipline, financial confidence, and a long-term vision.
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