MANILA, Philippines — Several banks and financial institutions on Friday met with Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion to explore the possibilities of easing access of the country’s small farmers to needed capital.
Held under the Kapatid Angat Lahat Agri Program (KALAP) forum, the representatives agreed that access to capital, along with mentorship and access to markets, is one of the essential elements in ensuring the success of agripreneurs.
Go Negosyo senior advisers William Dar and Josephine Romero joined Concepcion in the meeting.
Joining them were pioneer big-brother companies represented by Christian Moeller of Lionheart Farms and James Amparo of Yovel East, who shared with the group how their inclusive models can integrate small farmers into their businesses, thus addressing the perceived risks associated with lending to farmers.
The PSAC Agriculture Group’s Michael Tan was also present.
Financial institutions, which participated in the KALAP meeting, expressed their support for the initiative.
These included the Development Bank of the Philippines, Landbank of the Philippines, Philippine National Bank, Metrobank, Bank of the Philippine Islands, Robinsons Bank, BDO Foundation, BDO Network Bank, CARD MRI, Unionbank, Go Digital, KCOOP, Agribank, Rural Bankers Association of the Philippines and Agricultural Credit Policy Council.