WINNING | MSME lending boom powers Asialink nationwide growth

Insider Spotlight

  • Asialink Finance is accelerating support for MSMEs and entrepreneurs nationwide
  • Expanded financing solutions help small businesses access capital and scale operations
  • The strategy is gaining global recognition from multiple international award bodies
  • Executives say inclusive lending remains central to long-term economic growth.

A surge in demand for financing among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) is pushing Philippine lender Asialink Finance Corp. to scale up its lending programs and expand its reach nationwide.

The strategy is gaining global attention. At the International Finance Awards 2025 in Bangkok, Asialink Finance Corp. was recognized as the “Best SME Finance Company” and “Best Auto Financing Company,” underscoring its growing influence in MSME financing and consumer lending.

Why it matters

MSMEs account for the overwhelming majority of businesses in the Philippines, yet many struggle with access to capital. 

Financing providers that tailor products for entrepreneurs are playing an increasingly critical role in enabling business expansion, job creation, and community development.

Asialink has positioned itself in that gap by offering financing products designed for small business owners, vehicle buyers, and entrepreneurs seeking flexible capital.

Eleanor Y. Yap, chief operating officer of Asialink Finance Corp., and Ruben Lorenzo Francisco A. Lugtu V, member of the board of directors of the Asialink Group at the 13th International Finance Awards. | Contributed photo

The big picture

The company’s recognition reflects a broader shift in Philippine finance toward inclusive lending models that prioritize accessibility and practical funding solutions for underserved sectors.

Industry observers say institutions focused on MSME credit are becoming key partners in regional economic growth, particularly as small enterprises drive local commerce and employment.

What they’re saying

“These awards reflect the impact of our continued efforts to design financing solutions that are practical, inclusive, and responsive to the evolving needs of Filipino entrepreneurs and consumers,” Samuel Cariño, president and CEO of Asialink Finance Corp., said in a press statement.

He added: “We remain focused on expanding access to capital and delivering services that create real, lasting value for the communities we serve.”

Samuel Cariño, president and CEO of Asialink Finance Corp.

By the numbers

The International Finance Awards program, founded in 2013, recognizes organizations worldwide for excellence, leadership, and innovation in financial services and other industries.

Beyond the Bangkok recognition, Asialink has also earned honors from several other global award bodies, including the Global Economics Awards, International Business Magazine Awards, and the ACES Awards.

The repeated recognition highlights the company’s consistent push to broaden financial access across the Philippines.

What’s next

Asialink says it plans to continue expanding its portfolio of financing products for MSMEs, entrepreneurs, and individual borrowers while investing in new solutions that support long-term economic participation.

“These accolades strengthen our resolve to build a more inclusive financial ecosystem—one that enables Filipino communities and MSMEs to grow with confidence,” Cariño said. “As we move forward, we will continue expanding our reach, refining our solutions, and investing in innovations that create long-term value for entrepreneurs and the communities they serve,” he added. —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma

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