The Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT) is stepping up support for exporters and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by endorsing qualified members for government-backed loan facilities. The move aims to help businesses manage rising fuel and logistics costs, which have intensified under the current energy crisis.
Through a financing partnership between the Small Business Corp. (SBCorp) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), PHILEXPORT will vouch for eligible exporters, indirect exporters, and service providers with good standing and no unresolved trade complaints.
Firms must maintain active PHILEXPORT membership, hold required government registrations, and avoid appearing on the Department of Trade and Industry’s watchlist for unresolved export issues. PHILEXPORT noted that endorsement does not guarantee loan approval, which remains the sole prerogative of SBCorp.
The program is part of broader government efforts to cushion MSMEs from escalating operational expenses. Alongside export development loans, SBCorp has earmarked P2 billion each for women-led enterprises and returning overseas Filipino workers venturing into entrepreneurship.
Meanwhile, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has authorized banks and supervised financial institutions to extend temporary relief for borrowers affected by the State of National Energy Emergency declared in March.
Measures include loan payment grace periods of up to six months, extended deferment for agricultural loans, and temporary suspension of non-performing loan classifications. Lenders are also encouraged to waive online banking and e-money transfer fees to ease financial pressure.
These combined initiatives highlight a strategic government focus on protecting the backbone of the Philippine economy. By supporting MSMEs and exporters, policymakers aim to safeguard employment, maintain trade flows, and stabilize the business climate amid rising energy and logistics costs.
