Philippine operator Globe will enable users of GCash, the mobile money service, to support Kiva, the non-profit organisation that uses its online platform to turn donations into loans for those outside the conventional banking system.

Kiva has over 1.2 million donors from 80 countries worldwide. These donors have funded loans worth over $620 million to 1.4 million beneficiaries, usually the poorest in society who would otherwise struggle to receive a loan.

Now, GCash subscribers will be able to make a donation to Kiva using their mobile phones.

The loans are administered in the field by micro-finance institutions.

Donors can specify the area they wish to support, such as agriculture, food, retail and services.

Firstly donors input *143# on their handsets, then select GCash, choose Donate to Kiva, enter amount, their GCash PIN and email address. The donor will receive a confirmation message via SMS and an “I’m a Kiva donor” badge.