The Palawan Group of Companies has partnered with GMA Kapuso Foundation to enable zero-fee digital donations through the PalawanPay platform, expanding access to charitable giving for Filipinos through QR-based payments.
The partnership integrates PalawanPay as one of the foundation’s donation gateways, allowing users to send contributions through QR Ph without transaction charges.
The initiative aims to simplify donations for disaster response, healthcare missions, education, and livelihood programs supported by the GMA Kapuso Foundation.
The collaboration reflects the growing use of digital payments for social impact initiatives in the Philippines, as financial service providers increasingly integrate donation features into mobile wallets and payment platforms.
Launched through a ceremonial signing event, the initiative enables Filipinos to donate instantly using smartphones, reducing reliance on traditional over-the-counter bank transactions and making contributions more accessible across digital and physical channels.
Through the partnership, PalawanPay enables zero-fee donations supporting disaster response, healthcare, education, and livelihood programs
Angelita M. Castro, co-founder and deputy chairman of the Palawan Group of Companies, said the partnership is anchored on accountability and ensuring donations reach intended beneficiaries.
“We at the Palawan Group recognize the importance of trust, accountability, and integrity. Funds disbursed for the programs of the GMA Kapuso Foundation are directed with purpose, ensuring that every contribution reaches the communities and individuals who need it most,” Castro said.
For the GMA Kapuso Foundation, the integration is expected to broaden its donor reach while streamlining the donation process for supporters.
Rikki Escudero-Catibog, executive vice president and chief operating officer of GMA Kapuso Foundation, said the partnership aligns with the organization’s efforts to quickly deliver assistance to communities across the country, particularly in areas already served by the Palawan Group’s nationwide network.
She also noted the shared advocacy of both organizations in supporting education initiatives for students and schools.
PalawanPay enables zero-fee digital giving nationwide
Under the partnership, donations made through PalawanPay will incur no transaction fees, ensuring the full amount goes directly to beneficiaries. The organizations said the system is designed to maximize the impact of donations while encouraging more Filipinos to participate in charitable giving.
Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado, chief business development officer of the Palawan Group of Companies, said the partnership reflects the company’s broader approach to collaborations centered on social impact.
“At the Palawan Group of Companies, partnerships have always been at the heart of what we do. They are not formed merely to expand our reach or grow our business, but to serve a deeper purpose of uplifting our nation,” Castro-Sabado said.
The initiative comes as digital wallets and QR-based payment systems continue gaining traction in the Philippines, with fintech firms increasingly positioning their platforms beyond financial transactions toward broader ecosystem services, including donations and community support initiatives.
