ASA Philippines charts inclusive growth path on 21st anniversary

Insider Spotlight

• ASA Philippines marks 21 years with 2.2 million active borrowers
• Foundation eyes expanded reach through “Palaguin ang Pag-asa”
  
• Total loan portfolio hits P41.2 billion as of June 2025
• Social programs receive over P1 billion in annual funding

ASA Philippines Foundation is marking its 21st anniversary with a renewed push to deepen its community impact and scale inclusive economic development, especially among women microentrepreneurs.

Driving the new direction is the Foundation’s recently launched theme—“Palaguin ang Pag-asa”—announced by president and CEO Rafael “Rapa” Lopa. The initiative signals a broader effort to institutionalize hope and resilience across underserved sectors by expanding the Foundation’s flagship financial and social programs.

“These 21 years are a testament to the incredible resilience and unwavering spirit of our Nanay partners as well as the tireless and courageous work of our staff. They are the true heroes of our story,” said Lopa.

“That’s why we are introducing our new theme, ‘Palaguin ang Pag-asa.’ It’s not just a slogan; it’s our renewed promise to work hand-in-hand with every hardworking staff and enterprising Nanay to grow hope, nurture their dreams, and shape more empowered citizens in the communities we serve.”

By the numbers

ASA Philippines now serves over 2.2 million active borrowers through 1,814 branches nationwide. Its total loan portfolio stood at P41.2 billion as of end-June 2025. The organization’s main lending product remains its Microbusiness Financing program, with loans ranging from P1,000 to P300,000.

Clients—mostly women referred to as nanays—repay in equal weekly installments. The program covers small enterprises such as sari-sari stores, street vendors, and informal food businesses.

Portfolio diversification

Beyond microloans, the Foundation has expanded into agriculture financing and Islamic microfinance services, particularly in the Bangsamoro region. Its Islamic programs are supervised by a dedicated Shari’ah Advisory Council.

Social development remains a core pillar. Women borrowers in good standing qualify for home, educational, and water and sanitation loans. ASA also disburses over P1 billion annually for initiatives in health, nutrition, and education—programs originally led by the late Ambassador Howard Dee.

With “Palaguin ang Pag-asa” as its guiding framework, ASA Philippines aims to reinforce its role as a key partner for inclusive, community-led development across the country.