The Palawan Group of Companies celebrated its 40th anniversary with a two-day Partners’ Night on August 5 and 6, 2025, at the Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan in Bridgetown, Quezon City. The event gathered business partners, sub-agents, suppliers, agencies, affiliates, senior leaders, and stakeholders to honor shared achievements and renew the company’s mission of providing accessible financial services to Filipinos.
Executives paid tribute to outstanding partners who embodied the company’s core values of being “Matatag, Maaasahan, at Mapagkakatiwalaan.” Awards such as Loyalty, Outstanding Service Partners, Growth Driver, and Breakthrough Sales Award highlighted their role in uplifting Filipino communities. Guests arrived in Modern Filipiniana attire, reinforcing the theme “Gawang Pinoy, para sa Pinoy.”
Palawan for Business Rebrand and B2B Growth
The first day focused on Palawan’s business-to-business arm, officially rebranded as Palawan for Business. A teaser unveiling marked a new chapter in supporting enterprises and institutional partners. Chief Business Development Officer Lisa Castro-Sabado expressed gratitude to partners, stating, “As we celebrate 40 years of Serbisyong Palawan, we want to honor you, our business partners, for being with us in this journey. At B2B, we serve not just as a channel but a catalyst, developing scalable, efficient solutions that are rooted in reliability and Pusong Palawan.”
She highlighted that the B2B team has collaborated with over 1,700 partners in just three years, delivering services like disbursement, bills payment, QRPH, and microinsurance through ProtekTODO, which has already insured nearly 5 million Filipinos.
Honoring Suppliers and Global Partners
On the second day, Palawan recognized suppliers who keep its operations running smoothly across 10,000 branches and agents nationwide. Logistics, IT, media, creative, security, and other service providers received acknowledgment for their support. Chief Operations Officer Roberto Ben “Bobbit” Castro emphasized, “Hindi po namin maaabot ang tagumpay na ito kung wala ang inyong suporta at pakikiisa. You are part of the backbone that keeps our operations running smoothly, our services reaching millions, and our Sukis receiving the very best. Today is your day—maraming salamat po.”
Chief Human Resources Officer Korina Castro-Fernando added, “In HR, we often talk about building strong teams. But tonight reminds me that our team extends far beyond our offices. It includes all of you — partners who share our work ethic, our values, and our heart for service. Your support allows us to reach more Filipinos, especially those in the grassroots.”
The afternoon featured the International Partners Summit, a gathering of remittance allies and leaders from across the world. Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer Lilian Castro-Selda shared, “This gathering brings together key leaders across the global remittance landscape. Your collaboration has been instrumental to our growth and to the impact we have made in the lives of millions of Filipinos worldwide. Your work makes the distance feel shorter, and for that, we are truly grateful.”
The day concluded with recognition of Palawan’s internal teams in International Remittance, Domestic Remittance, Marketing Communications, and Regional Sales Agents, commending their execution, creativity, and outreach.
Driving Innovation for the Future
President and CEO Karlo M. Castro unveiled forward-looking initiatives. “Innovation is our constant,” he said. “We are proud to introduce Pera Padala Abroad, Project Voyager, and VISA Direct, solutions designed to integrate the digital and physical, and respond to the evolving needs of Filipinos wherever they may be. These are bold steps we take with you—our partners—because true success is shared.”
These projects reflect Palawan’s commitment to expanding financial inclusion and adapting to changing consumer needs.
A Look Back at Four Decades of Service
The anniversary featured documentaries showcasing the company’s roots in Puerto Princesa in 1985. The films carried the theme “Ikaw Pa Rin, No. 1 sa Palawan” and revisited milestones such as the design of the first Palawan Pawnshop signage, scouting branch locations by motorcycle, the creation of its jingle, and the contributions of employees who built the brand.
Founders Bobby and Angelita Castro also gave emotional speeches. Mr. Bobby Castro compared the company’s journey to a man’s life at 40. “Turning 40 is a sign that you have passed through childhood and adolescence. At this age, you would have surely faced many trials and challenges. You would have realized your strengths and weaknesses, and by now, you would have been surely shaped by time. Companies go through the same process – infancy, adolescence, then maturity. Palawan Pawnshop – now Palawan Group of Companies – has weathered its fair share of storms similar to other entities, or perhaps even more. But we did not only survive – we brought this company to where it is now: the market leader in most of our business lines.”
Mrs. Angelita Castro added, “Over the years, I have watched our humble beginnings evolve into a nationwide movement of service — built on more than just business decisions, but on compassion, trust, shared purpose and a deep love for our people and our country. Our journey has been shaped by many incredible individuals: loyal customers, dedicated associates, and trusted partners like you.”
Commitment to Partnerships and Service
The anniversary highlighted how Palawan’s success is rooted in long-term collaboration with stakeholders. The event underscored the company’s vision to remain dependable, trustworthy, and committed to every Filipino it serves.
For more information, go to Palawan Pawnshop and PalawanPay Websites.
