The Financial Impact of Asialink Finance Corporation on MSMEs and SMEs

In today’s rapidly evolving economic landscape, the role of financial institutions in supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) has never been more vital. These businesses represent 99.5% of all enterprises in the Philippines and form the foundation of the country’s economy. Among the institutions leading the charge in supporting these enterprises is Asialink Finance Corporation—a key player in enabling access to capital, business growth, and long-term sustainability. 

In 2024, Asialink Finance Corporation made significant progress in strengthening its presence nationwide. The company expanded its branch network to 116 new locations, bringing a total to 250 branches across the country. This expansion helped extend financial services to previously underserved communities and enhanced support for local business owners. As a result, Asialink was able to serve 34,996 Filipinos, disbursing over ₱15.5 billion in loans—marking a 23% increase from 2023. These numbers not only signify growth in the company’s operations but also reflect a larger economic impact through capital made available to entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals. 

Recognizing the specific challenges MSMEs face—such as limited funding options, tight cash flow, and operational volatility—Asialink offers a comprehensive suite of financial products. These include capital loans, vehicle-secured loans, expansion financing, healthcare professionals, business loans, and real estate financing. These products enable businesses to manage day-to-day operations, invest in equipment, expand services, and handle unforeseen expenses, contributing to their financial resilience and sustainability. 

To support its growing portfolio and improve lending capacity, Asialink secured several significant funding deals. In 2023, a ₱2-billion corporate notes agreement was finalized to fuel MSME lending. In 2024, Asialink partnered with Creador, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for a $315-million credit line. By July 2024, it had also secured a ₱125-million credit line from KEB Hana Bank Global. Importantly, a portion of the IFC and ADB funds has been allocated to develop a women-led business loan product, with the goal of nearly doubling the number of female entrepreneur borrowers—underscoring Asialink’s commitment to gender-inclusive finance. 

Asialink’s mission goes beyond financing. It actively promotes financial literacy to equip MSMEs with the tools they need to make smarter financial decisions. Through social media campaigns, and educational content, the company leverages platforms like YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn to reach a wider audience. These digital efforts have empowered countless entrepreneurs to better understand financial planning, business development, and loan management—creating a stronger, more financially informed business community. 

Asialink’s efforts are also felt at the community level. As businesses grow through access to capital, so do the communities around them. More jobs are created, suppliers are supported, and local economies become more resilient. In 2024 alone, Asialink hired 1,311 new employees, resulting in a 44% increase in recruitment compared to the previous year. Its workforce now exceeds 2,000 employees, operating in over 200 branches nationwide. This human capital investment is a testament to the company’s focus on both operational excellence and inclusive development. 

The company’s contributions and leadership have not gone unnoticed. Asialink has received numerous awards and recognitions, including the Asia CEO Awards, the 2024 UP Distinguished Alumni Award in Social Entrepreneurship and Banking for CEO Robert B. Jordan Jr., and the SME Financial Inclusion Initiative of the Year at the ABF Retail Banking Awards. Other accolades include the Gawad Kaagapay Award for Outstanding Large Corporation from the LANDBANK MERIT Awards, as well as honors from the HR Asia Awards—naming Asialink one of the “Best Companies to Work for in Asia” and recognizing it with a DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Award. 

These awards reflect Asialink’s continued commitment to excellence, inclusion, and ethical leadership. The company not only supports MSMEs financially but also fosters a corporate culture that values its employees and prioritizes community engagement. 

In high-risk sectors like logistics and transportation, access to capital can mean the difference between survival and success. Business owner Mr. Joel Kaong, who operates a trucking services business, faces unpredictable costs from fuel, maintenance, and repairs. With a capital loan from Asialink, he was able to stabilize operations, manage cash flow, maintain workforce morale, and expand his business capacity. His story is just one of many that illustrate the practical, real-world impact of Asialink’s lending efforts. 

In 2024 alone, Asialink Finance Corporation disbursed ₱15.55 billion in loans, with 77% directed toward MSMEs—a clear testament to the company’s commitment to inclusive growth and national development. Under the leadership of CEO and President Samuel Cariño, Asialink continues to provide accessible, flexible financing through a broad range of products, including auto loans, real estate financing, business loans, and personal lending options. With interest rates starting at 0.95% and payment terms of up to 48 months (about 4 years), clients are given the flexibility they need to succeed. 

More than a financial institution, Asialink is a partner in progress—supporting Filipino entrepreneurs, building strong communities, and contributing to a resilient economic future.