Sari-sari stores, local carinderias, and other micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are the driving force behind the Philippines’ nearly P30-trillion economy. Often referred to as its backbone, MSMEs represent 99.6% of all business establishments and generate 67% of total employment.
However, these establishments face persistent challenges that limit growth and resilience. Most sari-sari stores and carinderias still rely heavily on cash-only transactions, manual record-keeping, and informal credit systems (colloquially known as lista). While these traditional practices have sustained them for decades, they also expose MSMEs to inefficiencies, cash-handling risks, and even missed opportunities.
Recognizing this demand for digitalization, finance super app GCash recently conducted its latest financial literacy program, the Wais Tindera Caravan, which kicked off at Tunasan, Muntinlupa, on Dec. 5. The initiative aims to empower MSMEs with practical knowledge on finance and business while seeking to drive digital adoption through GCash’s Pera Outlet rollout and use of its Visa cards.
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