Palawan Group turns 40, celebrates 70,000 outlets milestone and Palawan Pay innovations

The Palawan Group of Companies marks 40 years of transformative service, championing affordability, reliability, and accessibility.

Palawan Group Founders Bobby L. Castro and Angelita M. Castro

Single Palawan store to 70,000 outlets and e-Wallet

From a single pawnshop in Puerto Princessa to a trusted financial powerhouse with over 70,000 branches and outlets nationwide. Since 1985, Palawan Group has championed affordability, reliability, and accessibility, becoming a cornerstone of economic empowerment for millions of Filipinos. 

Founded by Bobby L. Castro and Angelita M. Castro in Puerto Princesa, Palawan Pawnshop started with a simple mission: to provide fair and accessible financial services to Palawenos. From its first branch, the company grew through word-of-mouth, fueled by a customer-first approach that created every suki like family. This foundation of trust and empathy laid the groundwork for a legacy that prioritizes Filipino communities, especially in underserved areas.

Palawan Express Pera Padala emerged as the country's leading remittance service, enabling millions to send and receive money quickly and affordably. With a vast network covering remote provinces to urban centers, it has become a lifeline for families, ensuring loved ones stay connected through reliable financial support. Its mura, mabilis, at walang kuskos-balungos (affordable, fast, hassle-free) promise has made it a household name.

Over four decades, Palawan Group diversified into a robust financial ecosystem. From pawning and remittances, it introduced microinsurance through Palawan ProtekTODO, offering affordable protection for health and security. Palawan Credit supports small businesses with low-interest loans, while Palawan Pawnshop Jewelry and Palawan Gold make quality jewelry and investment-grade gold accessible. These services empower Filipinos to save, protect, and grow their wealth. 

In April 2022, Palawan Group launched PalawanPay, now the fastest-growing e-wallet in the Philippines with over 21 million users. Combining the company's BrickTech model-blending physical branches with digital convenience-PalawanPay offers seamless services like remittances, bill payments, and e-loading. This digital leap ensures that even Filipinos in remote areas can access financial tools, reinforcing Palawan's commitment to inclusion.

Through its B2B arm, Palawan for Business, the company collaborates with government institutions, banks, and fintech platforms to expand its reach. These partnerships enhance financial security for Filipinos nationwide, from cash disbursements to integrated services, ensuring no community is left behind.

As Palawan Group celebrates 40 years, it eyes a future where every Filipino has access to empowering financial services. Plans to enhance PalawanPay and introduce advanced business solutions signal a continued focus on digital inclusion while staying true to its roots of trust and affordability. 'Ikaw pa rin and No.1, Maasahan at Mapagkakatiwalaan' remains the brand's unwavering promise.

From enabling remittances that keep families together to offering microinsurance for daily security, Palawan Group's milestones reflect a deep understanding of Filipinos' needs. Its growth from a single pawnshop to a multi-service leader underscores a legacy of resilience and heart, making financial freedom achievable for all.

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