Last of three parts
The steps taken by Card Bank and its subsidiaries’ commendable initiative in community development, providing sustainable financial services to Filipino women and their families, has received well-deserved recognition from award-giving bodies. This proactive approach, aimed at reaching remote areas, serves as an effective countermeasure against the growing threat of Online Lending Applications (OLA) that exploit those lacking access to legitimate lending institutions. Recent credible reports highlight the nightmarish experiences of online borrowers coerced into settling debts hastily by OLA, resorting to threats, including ominous phone calls and bizarre items like coffins and funeral wreaths. In contrast, CARD Bank’s community-focused model stands out as a beacon of responsible finance.
In a nation of over one hundred thirteen million people grappling with persistent poverty, the government struggles to find a comprehensive solution. While debates and discussions persist in various forums, the entrenched societal issue persists. Poverty, akin to insurgency, demands a holistic approach, where every individual, regardless of their social standing, contributes to the solution. A dedicated group, perhaps a consortium of companies, willing to go the extra mile, can collaborate synergistically to combat poverty. However, achieving this ambitious goal demands sustained effort, resources, and clear implementing regulations.
In the pursuit of empowering marginalized sectors, leadership plays a crucial role. The head of the group must ensure inclusivity, equal opportunities, and continuous access to services, fostering positive and lasting effects on communities. The vision of “Empowering communities towards zero poverty” may seem ambitious to some, but it is a work in progress for those dedicated to the cause. Drawing inspiration from the actions of our National Hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, who, when exiled to Dapitan, dedicated his time to educate, provide healthcare, and empower the locals, we can find hope.
Analogously, achieving zero poverty through community empowerment is not an insurmountable task, as long as the initial steps are taken with determination and the willingness to see them through. This marks the culmination of a three-part series on this crucial topic.
Melinda Bagsic Evangelista
I was born to write and I believe that’s my calling. I love writing because it brings me to the realm exclusively of mine. It is also my opinion that “immortality” can be achieved not by searching for the Holy Grail and drinking from it but by living your life worth-writing or writing something worth-reading. Since I cannot promise you a life worth-writing, I keep myself busy writing something worth-reading. I am thankful to God for giving me the talent and skill to see life in different perspectives not seen by many and the courage to share it to my readers. This first ever Tutubi Digital News Magazine is a perfect avenue to bring you the many facets of life that you can ponder upon in this time of the pandemic. Enjoy reading all the articles.
