Empowering Frontliners: MCPI Holds Successful Microfinance Operations Staff Summit

Photo credit: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14Gf92Hx6Cy/

MCPI successfully hosted the Microfinance Operations Staff Summit last June 10–11, 2025 at Sheraton Manila Bay, gathering nearly 300 participants from 37 MFIs nationwide. The summit served as a platform to enhance the capacity of field and operations staff, who play a critical role in delivering financial services to underserved communities.

The sessions focused on practical learning and peer exchange, covering essential topics such as:

• Managing delinquency and instilling credit discipline

• Organizing effective center meetings

• Improving loan processes and procedures

• Implementing digitalization in field operations

One of the event highlights was the session with regulators, who shared their initiatives on sustainability and sustainable finance, encouraging MFIs to align operations with climate resilience.

Hazel Esteban -ASHI member from Rizal East Branch

One of the most inspiring moments came from Nanay Hazel Esteban, member from Rizal East Branch, who shared how a solar energy product changed her family’s life. She recalled how her children now sleep comfortably at night using a solar-powered fan without worrying about the electric bill, and how her husband uses the solar light for night fishing. This simple innovation helped increase their catch and household income, while also reducing their electricity bill by 40% — a clear example of how green finance can directly improve livelihoods.

Meanwhile, Ms. Ara Arida, Branch Manager from ASHI, led a discussion on how well-structured center meetings can boost repayment discipline and build stronger client relationships.

To address one of the pressing challenges in microfinance, Sir Jimmy Ramos, Vice President for Operations of ASHI, gave a compelling talk on delinquency management, offering field-proven strategies to minimize risk while supporting clients during difficult times.

The event was a testament to the strength and unity of the microfinance sector in the Philippines. By investing in the development of frontliners, MFIs are ensuring more inclusive, sustainable, and impactful services for the communities they serve.