DTI’s SBCorp ranks third in 2025 governance scorecard

The Small Business Corporation (SBCorp) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) placed third in the Governance Commission for GOCCs’ (GCG) 2025 Corporate Governance Scorecard for the second consecutive year, joining the ranks of the country’s top-performing state corporations.

The improved standing supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for government financial institutions to strengthen transparency, institutional performance, and micro, small, and medium enterprises’ (MSMEs) access to affordable credit.

SBCorp said its enhanced governance standards are reflected in its stronger financial performance, with revenues expected to reach PHP 1.2 billion this year, representing a 20% increase from 2024.

As of December 9, the agency has assisted 66,803 micro, small, and medium enterprises and released more than PHP 11 billion in loans.

Total disbursements are projected to rise to PHP 12.1 billion by year-end, about 15% higher compared with last year.

DTI Secretary and SBCorp Chairperson Cristina A. Roque said the results show how disciplined governance and targeted financing programs can directly support Filipino enterprises.

“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,” Secretary Roque said.

The agency expanded its reach in disaster-affected areas through the Enterprise Rehabilitation Financing Program, which released PHP 495 million in emergency capital to 2,693 firms.

SBCorp also conducted regional MSME roadshows that provided same-day loan approvals worth PHP 139 million to 794 businesses, many located in remote communities.

Reforms included the launch of the SBCorp Money Mobile App, enabling digital loan applications and PhilSys-verified onboarding for borrowers.

The agency also adopted an Expected Credit Loss Framework recognized by the Association of Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific.

To meet the needs of scaling firms, SBCorp increased its loan ceilings, offering non-collateralized loans of up to PHP 20 million and maximum financing of up to PHP 50 million for SMEs preparing to expand.

It also expanded strategic credit access through zero-percent loans under special financing programs.

SBCorp President and CEO Robert C. Bastillo said these reforms demonstrate the agency’s broader mission to make financing more inclusive and responsive.

“Our commitment is clear. We want smarter systems, faster turnaround times, and financing that is within reach of the underserved. 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,” he said.

With continued governance reforms and digital innovations, SBCorp expects demand for MSME financing to remain strong in 2026.