DTI, DBP, GCash, and Maya to Launch Mobile Loan Program for Sari-Sari Stores, Vendors

Sari-sari store owners and market vendors will soon have easier access to loans through their mobile wallets, thanks to a new partnership between the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), and fintech giants GCash and Maya.

Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque revealed the initiative during the Asia CEO Forum, saying the program is designed to provide faster, more accessible financing for micro-entrepreneurs using digital platforms.

DTI and DBP will allocate an initial ₱500 million for the loan program, with the memorandum of understanding (MOU) expected to be signed by the end of March or early April.

The pilot launch will begin in Cebu, which has one of the highest concentrations of sari-sari stores in the country.

“We’ve spoken to vendors in markets and sari-sari stores, and the biggest need we found is financing,” Roque said. She emphasized how integrating GCash and Maya into the process will make applying for loans much easier.

This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s push for nationwide digitalization, particularly in empowering grassroots entrepreneurs.