Kaagapay Newsletter Q4 2024

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2024

ISSUE 04

KAAGAPAY NEWSLETTER IN THIS ISSUE Blessing of New RAFI MFI Office Digital Champion, KaagAPPay MEA Business Plan Pitching & Graduation COO and CEO visit branches across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao Brand Cascade

RAFI MFI CELEBRATES NEW BEGINNINGS ON ITS 26TH ANNIVERSARY In celebration of its 26th year of service and being a Kaagapay, RAFI Microfinance (RAFI MFI) has blessed their new office at the third floor of CSB Building on December 10, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s journey.

The ceremony symbolized gratitude, growth, and a renewed commitment to serving the microentrepreneurs with excellence.

Pagtuki October and November

CEDS Elevate AIDA Program MOA Signings Scholar si Nanay Program TNN Updates Community Outreach Programs Sustainable Livelihood Training Program

HC Updates Activities and Updates

Other Events Look Back Updates

Attended by leaders, and team members, the event celebrated RAFI MFI’s mission of elevating the lives of Kaagapays, their families and fostering sustainable development.

A CELEBRATION OF GRATITUDE, GROWTH AND A RENEWED COMMITMENT

The new office stands as a testament to the organization’s continuous progress and dedication to creating positive impact, providing a space where innovation, collaboration, and service thrive.

KAAGAPPAY RECOGNIZED AS DIGITAL CHAMPION, ONCE AGAIN!

The KaagAPPay (K-App) Mobile application crafted by RAFI Microfinance (RAFI MFI) has been recognized as a Digital Champion in the Microfinance Category during the 3rd Digital Financial Inclusion Awards (DFIA). The National Selection Committee announced this on Friday, December 13, 2024, at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) in Malate, Manila.

Launched in 2022, K-App was created by RAFI MFI to offer Kaagapay clients a more convenient and paperless way to manage savings and transactions. The app allows users to access loans, savings, and other financial services with ease.

CEDS

EMPOWERED FOR SUCCESS: Microentrepreneurs with Macro Dreams to Elevate their Business.

Mauswagon Entrepreneur Award (MEA) 2023 Awardees successfully graduated from their ADVANCE Training Profeam at University of San Carlos School of Business and Center for Social Entrepreneurship, on November 6, 2024.

The MEA awardees, also called Power Pinays, are Ailyn Flormata (owner of Aira Bagshop Minglanilla Cebu), Virgilia Bonghanoy (owner, General Merchandise, Agrivet and Bakery, Cebu City), Maylin Ligad (President, Ritazo Tingub Women’s Association, Mandaue City Cebu), Analyn Baria (owner of Digital Printing, School Supplies and Restaurant, Ajuy, Ilo-Ilo), and Delia Inoc (owner of shell craft and hog fattening business of Lapu-Lapu 2).

The training conducted by USC School of Business is designed to help the awardees further develop their entrepreneurial skills to grow and elevate their businesses by giving them the opportunity to present their visionary plans, highlighting their resilience and exceptional entrepreneurial skills.

A JOURNEY OF CONNECTION AND KAMUSTAHAN TO OUR KAAGAPAYS

“ TESTAMENT TO UNWAVERING COMMITMENT

In a heartfelt effort to strengthen ties and personally connect with our Kaagapays, CEO Tom Kocsis and COO Jonar Donardo embarked on a meaningful journey traveling across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This kamustahan was not just a series of visits—it was a testament to their unwavering commitment to listen, engage, and understand the organization’s front liners, as well as Kaagapay clients.

CAMSUR & LEGAZPI Nov 19-22

The kamustahan was a reminder that leadership is not just about decisions made from the top; it’s about showing up, being present, and creating an environment where every team member feels seen, valued, and heard.

EMPOWERED FOR SUCCESS: Continuing to Uphold and Embody RAFI MFI’s Brand and Mission in Elevating Lives Brand Development Group (BDG) and the Operations team across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao completed the final phase of the Brand Cascade in November 2024. This initiative reflects RAFI MFI’s brand and values, ensuring every message, image, and experience deeply connects with Kaagapays.

Together, BDG and the Operations team transformed the organization’s mission into meaningful Kaagapay stories that inspire hope, connection, and transformation. Through campaigns, community engagement, and strategic outreach, they ensured the RAFI MFI brand is not only visible but also deeply felt— amplifying their impact and honoring the dreams of those they empower.

PAGTUKI: YOUR MONTHLY KAAGAPAY RADIO PROGRAM Pagtuki, a monthly radio program in partnership with DYLA Radio station dedicated to bringing relevant and informative topics to every suki Kaagapay listeners.

Last October’s topics namely “Mind Your Mental Health” with Ace Gimena as the guest speaker, and “Digital Armor: Essential Cybersecurity Tips” with Eduardo Garganera II as the guest speaker.

“ INFORM. INSPIRE. EMPOWER.

Last November, we had our MEA Awardee ate Maylin Ligad share the humble beginnings of Ritazo and how they try to help save the environment.

"Guardian of Mother Earth: Celebrating Environmental Awareness Month" NOVEMBER 28, 2024

Every Pagtuki episode is thoughtfully crafted to connect, inform, and inspire, tackling stories that resonate with everyday life.

ADVANCING CLIENT POTENTIAL THROUGH DIGITAL SKILLS Seventy-five Kaagapay clients from Naga and Talisay have completed the ELEVATE AIDA Program last November 11, 2024, a free training initiative on Artificial Intelligence Data Annotation. Aboitiz Foundation Inc., Connected Women, VECO, and the local governments of Talisay and Naga made this program possible.

BATCH 44 NAGA GRADUATES 40 Rafi MFI Clients

This program has empowered kaagapay clients in grassroots communities by equipping them with valuable AI skills, opening doors to the digital economy and remote work opportunities. For many, this achievement marks the start of a journey toward financial independence, personal growth, and a brighter future for themselves and their families.

As graduates, they will now join the Connected Women talent pool. Once they complete all requirements, they will be matched with Data Annotation projects, allowing them to apply their skills in real-world settings.

The ELEVATE AIDA Program demonstrates the transformative impact of providing the right tools and opportunities, enabling Kaagapay clients to thrive and BATCH 44 TALISAY GRADUATES achieve their dreams.

45 Rafi MFI Clients

BUILDING BRIDGES THROUGH STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

RAFI Microfinance (RAFI MFI) has partnered with PhilHealth Region 7, Aboitiz Foundation Inc., and Pilmico Foods Corporation this quarter who share the same commitment in elevating lives and fostering sustainable progress.

These partnerships are based on trust, collaboration, and a shared mission of empowering Kaagapay clients and their families. Guided by its mission to create meaningful change, RAFI MFI carefully tapped organizations that align with its vision of empowering clients and promoting economic resilience.

The MOA and MOU signings bring together like-minded partners to combine resources, expertise, and passion for the greater good.

PHILHEALTH REGION 7 October

ABOITIZ FOUNDATION INC., AND PILMICO FOODS CORPORATION November 19

TRADE FAIRS: Paskong Handog ni Nanay

GRADUATE NA SILA NANAY AT TATAY! The graduation ceremony of the Scholar si Nanay Program (SNP) Nanays and Tatays was an emotionally inspiring moment, filled with pride and hope for the future.

SNP, an initiative, led by RAFI Microfinance (RAFI MFI), was more than just a formal ceremony—it was a celebration of the resilience, determination, and dreams of many nanays and tatays who wish to elevate their lives and the lives of their families through education.

Negros Occidental November 20, 2024

Cebu South November 27, 2024

Through partnerships with schools and accredited organizations, these dedicated kaagapay nanays and tatays underwent specialized training and earned National Certificate II (NC II) qualifications, opening doors to better opportunities.

Cebu South December 17, 2024

EXPANDING TINDAHAN NI NANAY MICROENTREPRENEURS’ HORIZON RAFI MFI Tindahan Ni Nanay is an initiative that showcase the passion, creativity, and perseverance of kaagapay microentrepreneurs across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This quarter, Kaagapay microentrepreneurs were able to participate in trade fairs like Bacolod’s MassKara Festival, and R Cebu. Through events like handmadewith-love products from different provinces are given the opportunity to tell a story of tradition, resilience, and the spirit of entrepreneurship.

R CEBU October 4, 2024

SHOWCASE THE DIFFERENT TRAITS OF KAAGAPAY ENTREPENUERS

MassKara Festival October 11, 2024

SERVING KAAGAPAY CLIENTS, ONE COMMUNITY AT A TIME

“

PARTNERSHIPS THAT BRIDGE RESOURCES AND EMPOWERS FAMILIES

Last October, RAFI Microfinance (RAFI MFI) extended vital support to Kaagapay clients in Culasi, Panay North, and Buenavista, Panay South through its Community Outreach Program (COP). The event offered a range of services, including medical, dental, optical, and legal consultations, pap smear assistance, and free medicines through the “Botika ni Nanay” initiative. A kid’s corner was also set up to keep children engaged during the event.

In addition, RAFI MFI’s Human Capital team conducted on-site job hiring, providing opportunities for interested applicants to join the organization.

Through partnerships with various organizations, RAFI MFI continues to bridge resources and empower families and individuals to achieve their aspirations for a brighter future.

PANAY NORTH - CULASI, ANTIQUE October 2024

TRADE FAIRS: Paskong Handog ni Nanay

SUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOOD AND TRAINING PROGRAM: PASSION TO PROFIT. The RAFI MFI Sustainable Livelihood and Training Program (SLTP), led by the Client Training and Development (CTD) Team, conducted a series of training sessions across various locations from October to November. The sessions were held in Sipocot and Daraga, Albay; Panglao, Bohol; and Merida Extension, Leyte.

The program aimed to empower Kaagapay clients by equipping them with practical skills to boost their income potential. Participants enthusiastically learned how to make products such as Pork Siomai, Fish ball with homemade sauce, Peanut Butter Rolls and Pastimallows.

Sipocot October 5, 2024

Panglao October 18, 2024

Daraga November 22, 2024

Merida Extension September 9. 2024

Beyond teaching financial skills, SLTP emphasizes personal empowerment, fostering independence and dignity among its participants. Through these initiatives, RAFI MFI continues to support communities in achieving sustainable growth, one skill at a time.

FOSTERING FROM THE INSIDE, OUT This quarter, the Human Capital Team has rolled out a diverse range of programs, partnerships, and training aimed at fostering a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow.

Highlights of their initiatives include a Coastal Cleanup, Employee Appreciation events, and specialized trainings such as Event Management, Digital Marketing, Psychological First Aid, and the i2E Culmination. The quarter also marked the successful conclusion of the Boot Camp for the Faculty of Trainers Program, and partnering with Davao PESO, emphasizing the team’s commitment to professional development.

TO - TDI Culmination

TO - Master the art of public speaking with RAFI Toastmasters November 7, 2024

TO - CS in the workplace with district coordinators - November 18

Employee Appreciation Week November 11-14

Psychological First Aid Training November 19, 2024

Coastal Cleanup November 20

Event Management Training November 21

HC and BDG DM Training November 25

Davao PESO Partnership

i2E Culimination December 4, 2024

These activities reflect the Human Capital Team’s mission to go beyond resource management by nurturing relationships, building connections, and empowering individuals to thrive. Their efforts continue to create an evironment where employees can grow both personally and professionally, aligning individual aspirations with organizational success.

HC UPDATES

TOTAL NEW HIRES FROM OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2024

229 TOTAL RAFI MFI EMPLOYEES AS OF DECEMBER 2024

2847

PASKO NG PAGKAKAISA PARA SA BAGONG SIMULA

RAFI Microfinance (RAFI MFI) celebrated its Christmas party and 26th anniversary on December 10, 2024, at the Fort San Pedro grounds. The event was a vibrant gathering filled with joy and excitement, marking the organization’s achievements in 2024, including the launch of its new employee portal, Kawani+.

Everyone joined together to enjoy festive activities, inspiring messages, and a shared vision of hope and unity for the future. It was a meaningful celebration of milestones and the true spirit of the holiday season.

OTHER EVENTS

THANK GOD IT’S FRIDAY, AT RAFI MFI!

Thank God It’s Friday (TGIF)! So begins the monthly casual snack gathering which encourages interaction among RAFI MFI teams. Initiated by our CEO, Tom Kocsis, it provides everyone with a chance to take a break from work, unwind, and connect. It’s also a time to celebrate achievements—big or small—over a simple and enjoyable salo-salo!

LOOK BACK Previously on RAFI MFI:

IPI FOUNDATION INC. TRAINING BADIAN September 9-10, 2024

This event focused on empowering local communities with skills training, providing participants with valuable knowledge and tools for personal and professional growth.

TOPV September 20, 2024

RAFI MFI Tindahan Ni Nanay merchants were given the opportunity to display their handmade-with-love-products on various provinces around Cebu and even at Luzon and Mindanao.

TABO SA DUMANJUG September 25, 2024

These activities underscore RAFI MFI’s ongoing efforts to support and elevate communities through training, commerce, and meaningful partnerships.

UPDATES

BRANCH OPENINGS:

SOCIAL MEDIA: We’ve reached up to 50,000 followers on Facebook!

Visit our page at RAFI Micro Finance Inc. Don’t forget to click like and follow for more updates!

RAFI MFI HOTLINE

(032) 411 1700

Smart: calls only SMS : text only Whistleblower

0968 868 7742 0992 858 2557 0917 808 9569

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Email

rafimfi_cares@rafi.ph

WEBSITE: RAFIMFI.ORG.PH

You may scan the QR code to know more about RAFI Microfinance.

OTHER CHANNELS: TINDAHAN NI NANAY

You may scan the QR code to like and follow Tindahan Ni Nanay Facebook page.

LEARNING HUB

You may scan the QR code to join and learn more about Learning Hub Facebook group.

RAFI MFI YOUTUBE

You may scan the QR code to see and learn more about RAFI MFI Youtube page.

RAFI MFI CAREERS

You may scan the QR code to see and learn more about RAFI MFI Careers page.