Visa and PhilGuarantee Boost MSME Credit Access

Visa and PhilGuarantee Boost MSME Credit Access

Sunday, October 5, 2025

Helping Filipino entrepreneurs grow through financial inclusion and digital support

Small businesses have always been the lifeblood of the Philippine economy — from sari-sari stores and family-run eateries to growing online shops. But while they make up a huge part of the country’s business landscape, many still struggle to get the financial support they need to expand.

Recognizing this, Visa and the Philippine Guarantee Corporation (PhilGuarantee) have joined forces to make financing more accessible for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.

Visa and PhilGuarantee: Expanding Credit for Filipino Entrepreneurs

Visa, a global leader in digital payments, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with PhilGuarantee to explore new ways of improving credit access for MSMEs.

Through this partnership, the two organizations aim to:

• Develop credit guarantee schemes that can help MSMEs secure funding from banks and other lenders

• Support MSME digitization through capacity-building and training programs

• Promote financial inclusion using Visa’s innovative Government Solutions platform, which streamlines payment disbursements, digital transactions, and financial education programs

PhilGuarantee, an agency under the Department of Finance, plays a vital role in creating efficient and accessible credit guarantee systems that strengthen key sectors of the economy.

Why MSME Support Matters

There are more than 1.2 million MSMEs in the Philippines — employing about two-thirds of the nation’s workforce. Yet, many of these small businesses face major barriers in accessing credit.

According to a recent Visa study, 44% of MSMEs cite cash flow issues as one of their biggest challenges, while over half say their cash reserves would only last less than six months. Even more concerning, less than 10% of total corporate loans in the Philippines go to MSMEs — highlighting a huge funding gap that continues to limit their growth potential.

Building on Visa’s Commitment to Small Businesses

This new collaboration builds on Visa’s ongoing global efforts to uplift small businesses. Through the Visa Foundation’s $100-million Small Business Accelerator Initiative, the company supports MSMEs in Asia Pacific by enhancing digital financial inclusion, boosting job creation, and improving access to capital.

Complementing this, Visa’s Practical Business Skills Program provides small business owners with practical lessons in cash flow management, digital payment integration, and financial planning — all essential tools for growth in a modern economy.

Empowering MSMEs for the Future

Jeffrey Navarro, Visa Country Manager for the Philippines, emphasized how the partnership reflects the company’s continued support for local entrepreneurs.

Navarro shared that Visa’s collaboration with PhilGuarantee reaffirms its commitment to the government’s financial inclusion goals, ensuring MSMEs have access to “financial products and solutions that are truly responsive to their needs.”

By combining Visa’s financial expertise and PhilGuarantee’s local experience, this partnership marks an important step toward a more inclusive financial landscape — one where Filipino MSMEs can thrive, grow, and compete confidently in the digital economy.

For many MSME owners, this initiative could be the push they need to scale their business, manage their finances better, and embrace the benefits of digital transformation. With partnerships like this, the future of small businesses in the Philippines looks more promising than ever.

If you’re an entrepreneur, now’s the perfect time to explore digital payment tools and financial training programs that can help future-proof your business.

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Eastern Communications Partners with Nexusguard for Cybersecurity

Eastern Communications Partners with Nexusguard for Cybersecurity

A Strong Alliance for a Safer Digital Future

As businesses across the Philippines continue to digitize, cybersecurity has become more critical than ever. To address this growing need, Eastern Communications—one of the country’s premier telecommunications providers—has partnered with Nexusguard, a global leader in Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) mitigation and cloud-based security solutions.

The partnership was officially unveiled at Manila House in Taguig City on September 25, 2025, bringing together tech leaders, government representatives, and industry partners for an exclusive event that marked a significant milestone in the nation’s digital resilience journey.

Reinforcing Philippine Cybersecurity

This collaboration merges Eastern’s robust infrastructure and local expertise with Nexusguard’s cutting-edge Bastions Technology, a proprietary system that protects businesses from evolving cyber threats. Together, they aim to deliver comprehensive, scalable, and reliable protection for enterprises, government agencies, and service providers across the country.

“We are proud to partner with Eastern Communications to extend our mission of safeguarding businesses from evolving cyber threats,” said Andy Ng, CEO of Nexusguard. “With Nexusguard Bastions Technology, Philippine organizations can now access world-class protection that ensures business continuity and peace of mind.”

For Eastern Communications, this partnership reflects its commitment to evolve alongside its customers’ needs in an increasingly digital-first environment.

“By joining forces with Nexusguard, we’re reinforcing our promise to provide not just reliable connectivity, but also world-class security,” shared Atty. Aileen Regio and Jaeson Evangelista, Co-Coordinators of Eastern Communications.

Introducing DDoS-Protected Eastern IDS

The collaboration launched the DDoS-Protected Eastern IDS (Internet Direct Service)—a premium, high-speed, dedicated internet solution built for business continuity and productivity. Powered by fiber-leased line technology, this service offers symmetrical upload and download speeds of up to 10 Gbps, ensuring round-the-clock secure connectivity.

More than just fast internet, it’s a cyber-secure solution that shields organizations from disruptions caused by DDoS attacks, allowing them to operate confidently even in the face of cyber threats. Backed by resilient global backbone access, the DDoS-Protected IDS aligns perfectly with Eastern’s “High Tech, High Touch” philosophy—delivering both advanced technology and personalized service.

Strengthening Digital Resilience for the Future

The event also featured a symbolic partnership launch, awards presentation, and industry networking that emphasized the growing need for cybersecurity amid the Philippines’ rapid digital transformation. The timing was fitting—as the partnership debuted ahead of National Cybersecurity Month in October, reinforcing the message of vigilance and collaboration in protecting the nation’s digital economy.

Through this alliance, Eastern Communications and Nexusguard are paving the way for a more secure and connected Philippines, ensuring that enterprises large and small can thrive in the digital era without fear of disruption.

This partnership sets a new standard for corporate cybersecurity in the Philippines. With Eastern’s local reliability and Nexusguard’s global expertise, businesses now have the tools to stay connected, protected, and future-ready.

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Alsons Dev Leads Davao’s First Culture and Arts Summit

Alsons Dev Leads Davao’s First Culture and Arts Summit

Alsons Dev Champions Davao’s Creative Future at the First Culture, Arts, and Heritage Summit

Davao City took a major step in celebrating its rich cultural identity as Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) co-organized the first-ever Davao City Culture, Arts, and Heritage Summit on September 26, 2025, held at the Holy Cross of Davao College.

In partnership with the Davao City Office for Culture and the Arts (OCA), the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Inc. (CLAFI), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the event marked a groundbreaking effort to bridge dialogue among artists, educators, policymakers, and private sector leaders working to strengthen Davao’s creative and cultural landscape.

A Space for Cultural Dialogue and Collaboration

The summit became a vibrant platform for collaboration and insight-sharing, emphasizing how culture, arts, and heritage fuel sustainable and inclusive development.

Among the thought leaders who shared their expertise were:

Luz Ilagan, President of the Davao Historical Society, who reflected on the cultural value of the Kadayawan Festival;

Rob Tañedo, Creative Director of La Herencia, who discussed the challenges and opportunities of regional creative work; and

Professor Aya Ragragio of UP Mindanao, who explored the themes of cultural appreciation, appropriation, and artists’ rights.

From the public sector, Engr. Kat Salvador of DTI’s Creative Industries Development Office highlighted the need for multi-stakeholder collaboration to uplift artists’ welfare, while NCCA Deputy Director Marichu Tellano presented the Philippine Development Plan for Culture and the Arts, outlining a vision for a thriving national creative economy.

The event was also attended by prominent figures including Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre (representing Acting Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte), Councilor Petite Principe, CLAFI Executive Director Ryan Vidanes, Gawad CCP Para sa Sining Awardee Nestor Horfilla, and singer-songwriter and Datu Bago Awardee Joey Ayala—signifying strong local and institutional support for cultural advancement.

“This summit marks an important alignment between the city, the creative community, and private organizations like Alsons Dev,” said Oscar Casaysay of the Davao City Office for Culture and the Arts. “The outcomes will ensure that culture and heritage remain at the heart of Davao’s development.”

A Celebration of Creativity and Collaboration

The summit also served as part of Davao’s Creative Industries Month, which continued with the Creative Industry Exchange (CIEx)—a two-day event featuring creatives fairs, workshops, forums, and performances celebrating local talent and entrepreneurship.

Through these events, Davao City reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing a sustainable creative ecosystem that honors tradition while embracing innovation.

Alsons Dev: Building Communities Rooted in Culture

For Alsons Dev, participating in the summit is an extension of its long-standing mission to build communities that balance progress with cultural integrity.

“We believe livable communities are built not only through infrastructure but also through the cultural foundations that make Davao unique,” said Alsons Dev Executive Vice President Miguel Dominguez. “We will continue to support initiatives that strengthen culture, arts, and heritage as we shape the city’s future together.”

By collaborating with institutions like OCA, CLAFI, and NCCA, Alsons Dev continues to demonstrate that development and heritage can thrive hand in hand, shaping Davao into a city where creativity, identity, and sustainability coexist.

A Legacy of Culture and Connection

Through its active involvement in the Culture, Arts, and Heritage Summit, Alsons Dev reinforced its vision of fostering vibrant, inclusive, and culturally grounded communities. The event not only highlighted the importance of collaboration among local sectors but also set the stage for future programs that celebrate Davao’s creative spirit.

Alsons Dev’s leadership in this cultural milestone shows that the private sector plays a vital role in preserving heritage while promoting sustainable growth. It’s a powerful reminder that progress rooted in culture leads to stronger, more connected communities.

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FSSI Empowers Filipina Social Entrepreneurs for Rural Growth

FSSI Empowers Filipina Social Entrepreneurs for Rural Growth

Empowered Women, Empowered Communities: FSSI Champions Filipina Social Entrepreneurs Driving Sustainable Rural Growth

Rural poverty continues to affect millions of Filipinos, particularly farmers and fisherfolk. But across the country, a new wave of Filipina social entrepreneurs is proving that empowerment and innovation can change that story.

Guided by the triple bottom line (3BL) framework—People, Planet, and Profit—the Foundation for a Sustainable Society, Inc. (FSSI) supports women-led cooperatives that are redefining rural development. By combining livelihood, environmental care, and social equity, these changemakers are helping build a more sustainable and inclusive future for their communities.

Celebrating 30 Years of Impact: FSSI Honors Women-Led Enterprises

At its 30th anniversary celebration held on September 5, 2025, FSSI honored social enterprises driving inclusive growth and innovation through its first-ever Triple Bottomline (3BL) Awards. Many of these enterprises were led by women—proof that leadership and compassion can coexist in building stronger rural economies.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, rural poverty remains at 25.7%, underscoring the importance of empowering local leaders. These women entrepreneurs, many from agricultural cooperatives, are stepping up to tackle long-standing challenges such as low farmgate prices, high production costs, and limited access to markets and funding.

From Struggle to Strength: Stories of Resilient Cooperatives

In Echague, Isabela, the Caviteño Isabelino Multipurpose Cooperative (CAISA-MPC), led by Maria Victoria Anahaw, has been addressing issues like climate change, pest infestations, and lack of capital. With FSSI’s training, seminars, and capital loans, CAISA-MPC strengthened its operations, expanded its agri-business initiatives—from pineapple processing to rice milling—and introduced sustainable practices like bamboo planting and zero open burning.

“Through FSSI’s support, we’ve trained our members, provided access to financing, and built a cooperative that uplifts the entire community,” shared Anahaw. “From a small credit co-op, we’ve grown into a multipurpose cooperative with 800 members and services that truly improve lives.”

Meanwhile, in Occidental Mindoro, the Lourdes Multipurpose Cooperative (MPC) operates an FSSI-funded agri-supply store that offers affordable, quality products and loans for its farmer-members.

“It’s more than just a store—it empowers farmers to take control of their production,” said Jesrryl Maye Obispo Agnas, Branch Manager of Lourdes MPC. “We prioritize our members’ needs and ensure the quality and safety of every product we offer.”

Both cooperatives exemplify how local innovation and women’s leadership can create ripple effects that uplift entire communities.

FSSI’s Commitment to People, Planet, and Profit

Through financial support and capacity building, FSSI ensures that these enterprises not only grow sustainably but also remain rooted in their communities’ welfare. Executive Director Sixto Donato C. Macasaet highlighted that empowering women leaders is key to long-term transformation:

“Filipina social entrepreneurs show that real rural development starts with empowered leadership. FSSI will continue investing in accessible capital, upgraded technologies, and continuous learning to help them lead and thrive.”

Redefining Gender Roles in Agriculture

In a sector traditionally dominated by men, these women-led cooperatives are breaking barriers. They lead with empathy, collaboration, and strength, proving that women’s leadership is essential for inclusive growth. Their efforts are not only transforming local economies but also reshaping how rural communities perceive women in leadership roles.

Moving Forward: Building Sustainable Communities, One Enterprise at a Time

With organizations like FSSI providing steady support, more women are now taking the lead in climate-conscious, inclusive enterprises. Their success stories show that when Filipino women are empowered, entire communities grow stronger, greener, and more self-reliant.

FSSI’s 3BL model demonstrates that sustainable progress is possible when profit, people, and the planet grow together. Supporting women-led social enterprises isn’t just good economics—it’s a step toward a more inclusive and resilient Philippines.

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Cobra and TESDA Empower Filipinos Through Skills Training

Cobra and TESDA Empower Filipinos Through Skills Training

Cobra Energy Drink and TESDA Empower Filipinos with Skills and Strength to Chase Their Dreams

Cobra Energy Drink is proving once again that it’s more than just a boost in a bottle. Through its flagship initiative, “Tatag sa Pagtupad ng Pangarap Kasama ang TESDA Program,” the brand is helping hardworking Filipinos gain the skills, confidence, and hope they need to start anew.

In partnership with TESDA NCR – PAMAMARISAN District Office and DOLE-TUPAD, Cobra’s program provided 29 #TeamLakas beneficiaries with free technical-vocational training, TESDA competency assessments, and a special Cobra “Panimula Kit” to help jumpstart their careers and small businesses.

For many underemployed, unemployed, and displaced workers, this program was more than training—it was a second chance to rebuild their lives and dreams after the pandemic.

Real Stories of Determination and Hope

The beneficiaries’ journeys reflect the strength and perseverance that Cobra celebrates through its #TeamLakas movement.

Take Judy Baliwag Lomboy, who took up Bread and Pastry Production after facing financial struggles. She shared that her family became her inspiration to complete the course. “Ako’y lubos na nagpapasalamat sa pagkakataon na maging matagumpay sa aking tinatahak na landas,” Judy said, grateful for the opportunity that reignited her purpose.

For Jennelbel Amulat, a Housekeeping course graduate, the program opened doors to work abroad and pursue business ventures. “Dahil po sa programa ng Cobra, TESDA, at DOLE-TUPAD, makakapagsimula ulit ako sa aking hanapbuhay… Para sa kapwa kong #TeamLakas, laban lang tayo,” she encouraged.

Meanwhile, Jonalyn Yarra Abogado now juggles part-time work while preparing to apply overseas. “Maraming salamat sa Cobra at sa lahat ng parte ng programang ito dahil hindi sila nagdalawang-isip na tumulong sa aming nangangailangan,” she shared.

Each TESDA National Certificate wasn’t just a piece of paper—it symbolized new beginnings and a renewed sense of strength. Complemented by the Cobra “Panimula Kit,” the graduates gained practical tools to help them start their livelihoods with confidence.

A Brand with Heart: Cobra’s Mission to Empower Every Filipino

Cobra Energy Drink’s initiative goes beyond energy—it embodies the brand’s mission to uplift and empower Filipinos across all walks of life.

Jonsell Del Mundo, Assistant Brand Manager of Cobra Energy Drink, shared how seeing the participants’ dedication firsthand was truly inspiring. He said that witnessing their determination to rebuild their lives motivates the brand to keep creating programs that truly make a difference.

Apple de Belen, Marketing Manager of Cobra Energy Drink, added that Cobra has always stood for strength, perseverance, and courage. “Through #TeamLakas, we’re proud to help Filipinos gain not only the energy for today but also the skills and opportunities that will change their lives for tomorrow,” she said.

Empowering a Nation One Dream at a Time

Through its continued collaboration with government agencies like TESDA and DOLE, Cobra Energy Drink is empowering Filipinos to turn determination into success stories. By investing in skills development, Cobra is showing that the real measure of “lakas” goes beyond physical energy—it’s about resilience, purpose, and the drive to create a better future.

Cobra’s partnership with TESDA and DOLE is a model for how brands can create real social impact. By fueling both energy and education, Cobra proves that empowerment is the strongest form of strength.

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DBM Adopts Blockchain for Transparent Government Budget

DBM Adopts Blockchain for Transparent Government Budget

Blockchain Enters the Philippine Government: A Game-Changer for Transparency

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) just made history by integrating blockchain technology into the government’s budgeting process—a bold move that could redefine how public funds are tracked and trusted in the Philippines.

In an era when Filipinos demand greater transparency and accountability, this innovation promises to make every peso traceable and verifiable. Gone are the days when budget documents could be easily lost, delayed, or questioned—thanks to a tamper-proof, blockchain-backed system that ensures every transaction is recorded and protected.

As DBM Undersecretary Goddes Hope “Sasa” Libiran emphasized, blockchain isn’t just a tech trend—it’s a governance tool that reinforces public trust.

Libiran noted that blockchain enables every transaction to be transparent and verifiable, ensuring citizens can confidently track how public funds are managed.

A First for Asia: Blockchain-Backed Budget Transparency

While many industries—from crypto to logistics—have already embraced blockchain, the DBM’s adoption marks one of Asia’s first large-scale government implementations. This milestone positions the Philippines as a regional trailblazer in digital governance, inspiring other nations to follow suit.

The DBM’s new production portal, blockchain.dbm.gov.ph, now records Special Allotment Release Orders (SAROs) and Notices of Cash Allocation (NCAs) as blockchain-verified entries. Through partnerships with BayaniChain and ExakIT Services, this platform makes budget documents tamper-proof while letting the public view how funds are authorized and released—marking a new era of budget transparency and accountability.

Filipino Innovation: BayaniChain and ExakIT at the Core

According to BayaniChain CEO Paul Soliman, this project showcases how homegrown Filipino tech talent can contribute to national progress.

Soliman explained that by combining blockchain with artificial intelligence, BayaniChain aims to strengthen public finance security and prove how advanced technologies can help safeguard critical systems.

The process starts with the Action Document Releasing System (ADRS), which generates official budget documents. These are then secured using BayaniChain’s Lumen Blockchain-as-a-Service platform, developed with ExakIT.

To ensure privacy, the Prismo Protocol filters which details are public and which remain confidential. Approved SAROs and NCAs are stored as NFTs on the Polygon blockchain, protecting them from tampering or forgery—an effective safeguard against document fraud or deepfake attempts.

Empowering Citizens with Accessible Data

Starting from 2024, citizens can easily verify documents by scanning a QR code or searching online using document details such as department or agency name. This open-access system aligns with the DBM’s long-term goal: a citizen-first digital finance ecosystem where every stage of the budget—from planning to auditing—is traceable and transparent.

The Future: AI + Blockchain for Smarter Governance

The DBM envisions an even more integrated system where blockchain and AI work together to detect anomalies, forecast fiscal needs, and improve decision-making. These tools will not only boost accountability but also promote efficiency in the use of public funds.

As Libiran put it, this initiative is about more than digitizing documents—it’s about building the next generation of public finance systems rooted in transparency, technology, and trust.

A Step Toward Digital Democracy

The Philippines is proving that governance can evolve with the times. With blockchain and AI paving the way, the DBM’s leadership sets a precedent for open, trustworthy, and citizen-driven public service—a strong message that government innovation is no longer a dream but a reality.

This initiative is a huge win for transparency advocates and tech-savvy Filipinos alike. If successfully implemented, it could inspire a wave of digital transformation across other government agencies.

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UNLEASH Philippines 2025 Empowers Young Innovators to Shape the Future

UNLEASH Philippines 2025 Empowers Young Innovators to Shape the Future

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

A First for the Country, A Milestone for Filipino Talent

In September 2025, the Philippines hosted its first-ever UNLEASH Regional Innovation Lab, bringing together 150 innovators from all 17 regions of the country at the University of Santo Tomas. From bustling cities to remote islands, participants converged to design solutions addressing the Philippines’ most urgent challenges in health, food security, and sustainable infrastructure.

This landmark program was part of the Royal Academy of Engineering’s Leaders in Innovation Fellowships (LIF) Launchpad, connecting Filipino talent with the global innovation ecosystem.

Turning Ideas Into Action

During the week-long lab, participants applied the UNLEASH Innovation Methodology, a proven design-thinking process previously used in Denmark, Singapore, India, Rwanda, and Brazil. In just seven days, innovators moved from problem framing to ideation, prototyping, and pitching, guided by 14 international facilitators.

The result? 34 early-stage solutions ready to advance to the prototyping stage—each one rooted in Filipino creativity, informed by local realities, and aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Innovation With a Human Touch

Jackie Stenson, Managing Director of UNLEASH, emphasized that solving global challenges requires more than just technology.

“Technology on its own isn’t enough to solve big problems. You have to understand and serve the whole system—the people, the communities, and the structures around it. That’s what we encourage at UNLEASH: solutions that create real-world impact.”

Building a Diverse Community of Changemakers

What made UNLEASH Philippines truly unique was its inclusive approach. Participants represented a wide spectrum of disciplines—engineers, scientists, health professionals, creatives, and community leaders—showing how collaboration across fields sparks stronger, scalable ideas.

Supported by UST’s TOMASInno Center Technology Business Incubator, the lab provided an environment where students, researchers, and professionals could access the same networks, skills, and mentorship—leveling the playing field for all Filipino innovators.

From Local Impact to Global Reach

UNLEASH Philippines proved that Filipino youth are ready to take on global challenges. With structured support and international connections, these innovators are not only building for their communities but also shaping solutions that can benefit the world.

The journey doesn’t stop here—participants now continue refining their prototypes, with the potential to scale into impactful ventures across Southeast Asia and beyond.

Learn more about UNLEASH and how young Filipinos are driving innovation by visiting their official website

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