Barkada sa Utang at sa Negosyo: Pag-IBIG to launch Group Franchise Loan Program in Cordillera

Tabuk City, Kalinga – Friends and family members in the Cordillera region may soon have the opportunity to start their own businesses together as the Pag-IBIG Fund prepares to roll out its Barkada Franchising Financing (BFF) Program, a group-based loan initiative designed to promote entrepreneurship and financial stability.

The program allows at least three Pag-IBIG members—whether friends, relatives, or family members—to combine their loan proceeds and invest in a franchise business. Through the initiative, members can generate income, build savings, and create livelihood opportunities through legitimate franchise partnerships.

According to Ilocos Region Pag-IBIG Fund Area Head Miriam Pamitan, the program was first introduced in the Ilocos Region through a partnership with YummyTokyo. Following its positive results, Pag-IBIG Fund is now preparing to expand the program to the Cordillera, particularly in Baguio City, Sagada, and Bontoc.

“Our Baguio branch is catching up fast. We are not stopping at just one franchise brand. Our team, led by Branch Head Philip Raymund Salem, is currently in talks with more legitimate franchisors to offer more business options for our members here in the Cordilleras,” Pamitan said through the Philippine Information Agency-Cordillera (PIA-CAR).

Pamitan emphasized that only businesses registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) may participate as franchise partners under the program, ensuring that members invest in legitimate and established enterprises.

She added that partner merchants under the Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card Program also receive nationwide promotional support in exchange for providing exclusive discounts to Pag-IBIG members.

The BFF Program is expected to open new business opportunities for Cordillerans by making franchise ownership more accessible through group financing and shared investments.