Insider Spotlight
Why it matters
Across the country, small merchants face the same challenge as they grow. Customers want flexibility, but owners cannot afford to compromise cash flow or trust. This is where embedded financing has become a critical growth lever.
The big picture
Skyro, an SEC-registered lending app offering Buy Now, Pay Later options, is positioning itself as a bridge between small businesses and customers who need accessible credit, without hidden costs or delays.
Kate Luengas stepped up early
At just 21, Kate Luengas opened Kate’s iGadgets in Davao City during the pandemic, when many businesses were closing.
Starting as an online shop with door-to-door delivery, she quickly found demand outpacing her payment options.
“People were shocked because of my age,” Kate shared. “But I explained how I started, na may achievements naman ako. Hindi ito sabi-sabi lang. Meron silang makikita.”
Before Skyro, her store accepted only cash. After partnering with the platform, installment options drove new customers and repeat sales.
“That’s when nagboom talaga yung Kate’s,” she said. “Naging malaki yung impact ni Skyro sa business namin.”
Today, Kate operates 20 branches in and beyond Davao.
Ricky Concepcion focused on steady growth
Raon Point began as a modest appliance store in Bulacan. Founder Ricky Concepcion relied on years of sales experience and deep community knowledge to grow slowly but consistently.
“Marami din po kaming naging doubters,” he said. “Pero nagpatuloy kami kasi marami ding nagtitiwala.”
Skyro’s real-time payments became a differentiator.
“Maganda si Skyro kasi real-time dumadating yung payment sa amin,” Ricky said. “Kaya sabi ko, okay talaga ito.”
Raon Point has since expanded to 20 stores across the province.
Reychelle Abelida built while studying
In Bacolod, college student Reychelle Abelida started RF Chein Gadgets by reselling phones to classmates.
“We can’t control the opinions of others,” she said. “But that motivated me to show what I can really do and offer.”
Skyro’s Product Loans helped her serve repeat customers through installment options. Today, RF Chein Gadgets operates inside 888 Bacolod Chinatown Mall.
What’s next
Skyro says its mission is to empower entrepreneurs by making credit transparent and accessible.
“Skyro is committed to empowering Filipino entrepreneurs and the communities they serve,” said Iya Lelyanova, head of marketing.
For Kate, Ricky, and Reychelle, the lesson is clear. Growth accelerates when dreams meet the right partner. — Ramon C. Nocon | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
