The Department of Trade and Industry’s Small Business Corporation (SBCorp) has secured a top-three position in the national governance rankings for Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs) for the second year running, accompanied by a significant rise in revenues and loan disbursements to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) placed SBCorp third in its 2025 Corporate Governance Scorecard, recognizing its strengthened institutional performance. This improved governance is directly linked to stronger financial results, with the agency forecasting annual revenues to hit ₱1.2 billion, a 20% increase from 2024.
As of December 9, SBCorp has assisted 66,803 MSMEs and released over ₱11 billion in loans. Total loan disbursements are projected to reach ₱12.1 billion by year-end, marking a 15% year-on-year growth.
Leadership Attributes Success to Governance Reforms
DTI Secretary and SBCorp Chairman Cristina A. Roque stated the results demonstrate how disciplined governance translates to tangible public benefit. “SBCorp’s performance shows what good governance can deliver for the country. When our financial institutions operate with discipline, transparency, and purpose, more Filipino enterprises gain the support they need to grow,” she said.
SBCorp President and CEO Robert C. Bastillo linked the agency’s direction to the national agenda. “Bagong Pilipinas inspires us to raise our standards and expand our impact. SBCorp is ready to bridge the MSME credit gap and champion entrepreneurs who only need a fair chance to succeed,” Bastillo said.
Key Initiatives Drive Performance
The agency’s expanded impact is attributed to several key programs and reforms:
Disaster Response: The Enterprise Rehabilitation Financing Program provided ₱495 million in emergency capital to 2,693 firms in disaster-affected areas.
Digital Innovation: Launch of the SBCorp Money Mobile App for digital loan applications using PhilSys-verified identity.
Higher Loan Ceilings: Increased access for scaling businesses, offering non-collateralized loans up to ₱20 million and maximum financing of ₱50 million.
Special Financing: Broadened access to zero-percent loans under targeted programs.
Regional Outreach: MSME roadshows enabled same-day loan approvals worth ₱139 million for 794 businesses, including those in remote communities.
Outlook for 2026
With these continued governance improvements and digital innovations, SBCorp anticipates sustained strong demand for MSME financing in the coming year. The agency’s performance aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for government financial institutions to enhance transparency and improve access to affordable credit for local businesses.#
