Insider Spotlight
As millions remain unbanked or underbanked, the company’s focus on low-cost, easy-to-use solutions has positioned it as a critical player in expanding financial participation across urban and rural communities alike.
Why it matters
Financial inclusion remains a persistent challenge in the Philippines, particularly outside major cities.
By prioritizing affordability, speed, and trust, Palawan’s ecosystem of services—from pawning and remittances to e-wallets and microinsurance—helps households manage daily needs, emergencies, and small business cash flow without friction.
That strategy gained fresh validation in 2025, when the Palawan Group capped its 40th anniversary year with multiple international recognitions, including honors from the International Finance Awards and the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards.
The accolades underscored how accessible financial solutions can scale sustainably while delivering real-world impact.
Zoom in
Palawan Pawnshop continues to serve as a financial lifeline, known for fair collateral valuation, low interest rates, and fast service—features that matter most to customers facing urgent expenses.
Its digital enhancements, such as online pawn renewal and jewelry sales via PalawanPay, extend that accessibility beyond the counter.
Remittances remain another cornerstone. Through Palawan Express Pera Padala’s extensive network, families can send and receive money quickly, even in remote areas, reinforcing the role of cash transfers in household resilience.
Meanwhile, PalawanPay has emerged as a daily-use platform, enabling bill payments, mobile load top-ups, pawn renewals, and access to microinsurance for tens of millions of users.
What they’re saying
“We are proud of these recognitions, but our work doesn’t stop here. They inspire us to push further, strengthen our commitment to service, and continue raising the bar for innovation,” Karlo M. Castro, president and CEO of Palawan Group, said in a press release.
“As we move into 2026, we will keep improving our services and expanding our reach to ensure every Filipino can access reliable and meaningful financial solutions. The Palawan Group has always been and will always be about serbisyo para sa Pilipino,” Castro said.
Group marketing head Bernard Kaibigan added, “Winning multiple awards this year reflects our commitment to our sukis. For four decades, our mission has been to provide fast, affordable, and hassle-free financial services to every Filipino, especially the unbanked and underbanked. These accolades affirm the hard work and dedication of our team and the trust of our sukis.”
The bottom line
By centering growth on accessibility rather than exclusivity, Palawan Group shows how inclusive finance can be both scalable and sustainable—turning everyday transactions into long-term empowerment as it looks ahead to 2026. —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
