CARD Inc. receives Microfinance Impact Maker Award for expanding solar access

MANILA — CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO) was recognized by Hybrid Social Solutions (HSS) with the Microfinance Impact Maker Award for its efforts to expand access to solar-powered solutions among Filipino households and small businesses.

The award was presented on August 12, 2026, after CARD, Inc.’s Solar Loan program helped provide reliable lighting and improved energy access to 148,867 individuals from August 2025 to July 2026.

Through the program, CARD clients can purchase solar-powered products from HSS through financing, allowing them to use clean-energy solutions for household needs and livelihood activities.

The initiative reached communities across several areas, including Isabela, Laguna, Quezon, Mindoro, Palawan, Romblon, Bicol, Samar, Leyte, Negros, Iloilo, Aklan, Antique, Cebu, and Davao del Sur.

For households previously dependent on kerosene lamps, the shift to solar-powered lighting provides a safer alternative while helping reduce exposure to smoke and potential fire hazards.

The solar kits also help clients manage electricity costs while promoting the use of renewable energy in their homes and businesses.

“We are happy that the very purpose of our solar loan service has made an impact, which is helping our clients acquire and utilize solar-powered devices so that they, too, can access clean and sustainable energy,” said CARD, Inc. Executive Director Vicente Briones Jr.

CARD units also recognized

Several CARD, Inc. unit offices were likewise recognized during the Impact Maker Awards 2026 – Unit Category.

The Aborlan 1 and Culion 1 units in Palawan placed first and second, respectively, while Sablayan 3 in Occidental Mindoro secured third place.

Briones accepted the institutional award together with the regional directors overseeing the recognized units during the 9th Annual Hybrid Impact Network Fellowship & Recognition Night held in Malate, Metro Manila.

The recognition highlights CARD, Inc.’s continuing efforts to integrate financial services with solutions that address the energy needs of underserved communities.

CARD, Inc.Executive Director Vicente Briones Jr. (center, 6th from right) receiving the Microfinance Impact Maker Award for CARD, Inc. during the 9th Annual Hybrid Impact Network Fellowship & Recognition Night.