Since 1985, the Palawan group of companies has been dedicated to simplifying every customer experience. Over the years, Filipinos have come to expect the same level of care and convenience, and that promise still holds today, even as the brand continues to evolve and adapt to an ever-changing world. As reflected by the President & CEO, Karlo Castro, “Four decades of serbisyong matatag, maasahan at mapagkakatiwalaan, ang aming pangako sa aming mga suki ay patuloy kayong tapat na paglilingkuran, 40 years na po tayo at kayo pa rin ang number 1 sa Palawan” (Four decades of strong, reliable, and trustworthy service—our promise to our loyal customers is to continue serving you with the same dedication. It’s been 40 years, and you’re still number one in Palawan.)

For many years, the brand has been a part of everyday Filipino life. From trusted services like Palawan Pawnshop and Palawan Express Pera Padala to newer offerings like Palawan ProtekTODO micro insurance, Palawan Credit for SME loans, and PalawanPay, they’ve expanded to over 70,000 branches, outlets, and Money Shops nationwide, bringing accessible financial services to communities across the country.

Palawan is more than just a storefront — it’s a trusted partner in times of need. Whether it’s pawning valuables during emergencies, sending money to loved ones, or securing the family’s future through insurance, customers know they can count on its dependable service. But what truly sets them apart is their heart for service. They were among the first to reopen after Typhoon Yolanda and stood by Filipinos through the toughest days of the pandemic. In response to the challenges brought by COVID-19, they launched Online Pera Padala — enabling bank-to-branch fund transfers and marking its first step into the digital space. More than just innovation, it was a way to stay connected and keep serving when it mattered most. In times of need, when hope seems distant, it is there, ready to help and serve.

Moreover, for the brand, giving back has always been a core part of their mission. They believe in serving the very communities that helped shape their success—communities that have supported them throughout their 40-year journey, including those in far-flung areas. One of their proudest initiatives is the scholarship program, launched in 1998. Since then, it has helped 778 students graduate, mostly from the province and some from the Cordilleras. Currently, 474 scholars are enrolled at Palawan State University and Western Philippines University. This initiative began as a simple idea from Mr. Bobby Castro, chairman of the Palawan Group of Companies. He was inspired by the fact that he and his wife, Ms. Angelita Castro, the co-founder, were both scholars, and their children were also scholars at the University of the Philippines. “Tutal parehas naman tayo scholar nu’ng high school, and college scholar pati mga anak natin ay scholar, ano kaya kung ito ang maging daan natin para tumulong, ibalik natin sa mga tao ‘yung mga biyaya na binigay sa’tin, that started it,” (“Since we were both scholars in high school and college, and even our children were scholars in UP, I thought, what if this becomes our way of giving back? Let’s return the blessings we’ve received to the people.”) Bobby shared.

It takes pride in being part of their scholars’ journeys, empowering dreams, and changing lives. This year alone, the program celebrated 85 graduates, including its very first summa cum laude. More than academic success, what stands out is how these scholars are now uplifting their families and giving back to their communities. It underscores that true success is not only about numbers but also about the positive impact a brand has on people’s lives.

Furthermore, as part of its commitment to uplifting communities, the company has launched a range of CSR initiatives focused on health, livelihood, disaster response, and environmental care. These include free medical missions in underserved areas, livelihood programs that provide starter kits and skills training to small entrepreneurs, and swift relief efforts for communities affected by natural disasters. They also support environmental efforts such as tree-planting drives and coastal cleanups, reflecting its roots in the ecologically rich province of Palawan. Through these initiatives, the brand continues to make a meaningful impact beyond business, staying true to its values of compassion, reliability, and community care.

The company also stays firmly rooted in its mission to empower Filipinos by making financial services more accessible and inclusive. While the business continues to embrace innovation, it remains anchored in the values that have shaped its journey. Now at 40 years, the company’s drive is as strong as ever, steadfast in its promise of its services. “We continue to grow our services and embrace innovation because our goal is clear: to champion financial inclusion and empower those in the grassroots,” Karlo said.

For more information, please visit the Palawan Pawnshop and PalawanPay websites.