In a significant step toward streamlining government financial aid distribution, the Palawan Group of Companies (PGC) has signed an agreement with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank).
This partnership aims to deliver critical support to approximately 650,000 beneficiaries under the government’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) and Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP).
Under the agreement, PGC will support the hybrid-digital payout system for AICS and AKAP. This approach combines both digital disbursement and traditional cash distribution to ensure faster, safer, and more accessible delivery of financial aid, especially in areas with limited access to banking services.
“We at Palawan Group are deeply grateful to be entrusted with this critical role in facilitating the payout for the beneficiaries under DSWD Region IV B’s programs, in collaboration with Landbank. Ang partnership na ito ay isa na namang matibay na patunay na ang matatag na public-private partnership ay kayang makagawa ng malaking pagbabago sa buhay ng ating kapwa Pilipino,” shared Karlo Enrico Amurao, PGC’s B2B Key Accounts Supervisor.
With over 70,000 branches, Pera Padala outlets, and PalawanPay Money Shops nationwide, the Palawan Group is well-positioned to serve beneficiaries across both urban and remote areas. Its expansive network, combined with a long-standing reputation of “mura, mabilis, at walang kuskos balungos” (affordable, fast, and hassle-free), makes Palawan a vital partner in ensuring the smooth and inclusive rollout of the AICS and AKAP programs.
Expressing excitement about this initiative, DSWD MIMAROPA Regional Director Leonardo Reynoso remarked, “This is a momentous occasion for the DSWD because it’s actually the first time that we will do this hybrid digital payment. And we extend our gratitude to Palawan Group of Companies. Kung wala kayo ay di natin magagawa ito.”
As outlined in the DSWD and LandBank partnership, DSWD social workers are tasked with validating and assessing qualified beneficiaries, while LandBank oversees the cashiering and release of funds. LandBank has engaged third-party financial service providers, including PGC, to expand the reach and efficiency of its aid distribution efforts.
Pursuant to the agreement, financial aid beneficiaries under the AICS and AKAP programs will be able to receive their assistance through Payout Caravans. This initiative is designed to improve the efficiency and accessibility of disbursements, particularly in both Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA) and non-GIDA communities, with minimal service charges. By leveraging a mix of physical and digital financial services, the partnership aims to reduce service barriers and demonstrate the impact of strong public-private sector collaboration in delivering essential support to vulnerable populations.
“Through this partnership, we are amplifying the impacts of this program. By pooling our resources, expertise and networks, we can ensure that assistance is delivered more efficiently and reaches those who need it most. Barriers to accessing aid are reduced, allowing for a more inclusive and responsive system. We bring not just aid, but hope and dignity to thousands of Filipinos,” emphasized Adeline Ramos, Vice President of Southwest Luzon Branches Group of Land Bank of the Philippines.
With its expansive network and long-standing reputation for dependable service, PGC stands as a key driver in this transformative initiative. By enabling faster, more accessible financial aid disbursement across the country, particularly in remote and underserved communities, PGC further cements its role as a vital private sector partner in national welfare efforts, showcasing the power of synergy between government and business to uplift vulnerable communities.
