Speaking Out
by Ignacio R. Bunye
In a world where small and medium enterprises (SMEs) often struggle to find their footing, the Bank of the Philippines Islands (BPI) has once again stepped up to the plate with its Ka-Negosyo Festival. Now in its third year, this initiative is more than just a series of events; it’s a lifeline for countless entrepreneurs.
The 2024 Ka-Negosyo Festival kicked off with a bustling three-day event at Newpoint Mall in Angeles, Pampanga. From August 30 to September 1, the mall transformed into a vibrant hub of activity, bringing together business owners, industry experts, and government representatives. The presence of the Department of Trade and Industry and other partners underscored the festival’s significance in driving economic growth and supporting the SME sector.
Dominique “Ococ” Ocliasa, leading the BPI Business Banking team, articulated the bank’s vision: “The Ka-Negosyo Festival is part of our continuing effort to reinvent the bank to provide better value to our stakeholders. By focusing on improving client experience, anchored on digitalization and sustainability, we hope to build a better, more inclusive Philippines.”
The festival was a treasure trove of opportunities for business owners. BPI’s suite of Ka-Negosyo Loan products was on full display, catering to various business needs. Whether it’s managing recurring expenses with the Ka-Negosyo Loan Credit Line, addressing seasonal working capital needs with the Ka-Negosyo Ready Loan, or financing expansion initiatives with the Ka-Negosyo SME Loan, there was something for everyone. Loan amounts ranged from PHP 300,000 to PHP 30 million, with applications available both in-person and online through the newly launched Ka-Negosyo On The Go digital platform.
But the festival was more than just about loans. It featured workshops, networking opportunities, product showcases, consultation booths, and demonstrations on the Ka-Negosyo On The Go digital platform. This platform is a game-changer, making banking and financing more accessible and convenient for SMEs. With features like online applications, real-time application tracking, digital documentation, financial management tools, and robust security, it’s designed to meet the modern entrepreneur’s needs.
Ocliasa emphasized BPI’s commitment to making financial services more accessible and less daunting for SMEs. “In BPI, we continue to support and nurture the growth of our SME sector beyond merely developing loan products. Through the Ka-Negosyo Festival, we aim to promote greater access to financing opportunities and address the concerns that SMEs have about borrowing from formal banks by introducing our SME loans and solutions that are Madali, Magaan, at Mabilis (Easy, Affordable, and Fast),” he explained.
The Ka-Negosyo Festival is not just an event; it’s a testament to BPI’s unwavering commitment to empowering SMEs. By providing the tools, resources, and support they need, BPI is helping to build a more inclusive and prosperous Philippines.
