The partnership between PGC and RAFI Microfinance seeks to deliver affordable, fast, and hassle-free financial services that empower microentrepreneurs and expand access to inclusive economic opportunities in underserved communities.
In a powerful move to champion grassroots entrepreneurship, the Palawan Group of Companies (PGC)—the trusted name behind Palawan Pawnshop and Palawan Express Pera Padala (PEPP)—has teamed up with RAFI Microfinance, Inc. to bring financial support closer to Filipino micro-entrepreneurs.
The official partnership was sealed at PGC’s head office in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, marking a milestone in their shared mission to make financial services more inclusive and accessible.
“We’ve always believed that financial access is the key to unlocking opportunities,” said Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado, PGC’s chief business development officer. “This partnership allows us to reach deeper into communities and provide real support to entrepreneurs who are building better lives for their families.”
Through this collaboration, RAFI Microfinance’s vital services will now be available at over 3,500 PEPP branches across the country. By combining PGC’s vast branch network with RAFI’s expertise in microfinance, the partnership will make it easier for small business owners—even in remote barangays—to access much-needed financial tools without the burden of long travel times or high costs.
Small businesses are the lifeblood of the Philippine economy, making up a staggering 99.59% of all registered enterprises and contributing over 65% of national employment, according to the Department of Trade and Industry. Yet, many of these entrepreneurs—particularly in rural areas—still face significant barriers when it comes to credit, capital, and other support services.
This partnership directly addresses that gap. By harnessing PGC’s infrastructure and RAFI’s community-focused lending programs, the initiative aims to empower micro-entrepreneurs with better access to reliable, affordable, and growth-oriented financial services.
PGC chairman Bobby L. Castro added, “Inclusive finance is not just good business—it’s a driver of social progress. With this alliance, we’re making sure that even the smallest businesses in the farthest corners of the country have the tools they need to thrive.”
Present at the contract signing were key representatives from both organizations. From the Palawan Group of Companies, attendees included Bobby L. Castro, Chairman; Karlo Castro, President and CEO; Angelita M. Castro, Deputy Chairman; Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado, Chief Business Development Officer; Missy C. Baldemor, B2B Department Head; Greece Palasigue, B2B Marketing Manager; and Sam Balando, B2B FS Team Lead. Representing RAFI Microfinance Inc. were Thomas Kocsis, President and CEO; Jonar Dorado, Chief Operating Officer; Iris Louise Dorado, Chief Finance Officer; Heidee Salcedo, Treasury Head; Kim Raechelle Dosdos, Treasury Senior Supervisor; and Mea Manango, Finance Officer.
RAFI Microfinance president and CEO Thomas Kocsis echoed this sentiment. “Our goal has always been to remove the barriers that hinder growth for micro-entrepreneurs. Partnering with PGC—an organization that shares our values and vision—enables us to serve more people, more effectively.”
This new alliance strengthens PGC’s role as a leader in both physical and digital financial services. As the company continues to expand its reach, it remains committed to its core promise of providing solutions that are “mura, mabilis, at walang kuskos balungos”—affordable, fast, and hassle-free. More than just a business move, this partnership is a bold step toward building a more resilient, inclusive, and empowered entrepreneurial landscape for all Filipinos.