MANILA, Philippines (Sep 2026) – Starting a small neighborhood shop in the Philippines often comes down to having just enough daily cash flow to keep basic shelves stocked. For three local store owners, taking a leap on micro-financing with Maya Business turned tiny working capital offers into business growth worth millions of pesos through Maya Advance.
From sari-sari store to mini grocery
When Ma. Christine Vito relocated her family store to Sebaste, Antique, keeping up with customer demand during the pandemic meant finding quick ways to replenish inventory. Through her active use of digital payment tools, she qualified for an initial loan offer of PHP 10,000 (approx. $175) through Maya Advance. Though initially hesitant to take on credit, she used the capital to buy essential supplies and stock up on mobile load and utility bill payment services.
Over time, consistent repayments helped her access more than PHP 3 million (approx. $52,600) in cumulative loans. Her once modest shop has since expanded into a mini grocery complete with a kitchen, a mini warehouse, and a delivery vehicle.
Building capital PHP 1,000 at a time
For Mohammad Hadji Mahmod, a former overseas worker who returned home to help run his family’s shop in Boracay, expansion began with an even smaller amount. In 2023, his first credit offer through Maya Advance came out to PHP 1,000 (approx. $18). Rather than waiting for a larger sum, he put the funds straight into his mobile load business.
By steadily rolling over his earnings and managing his repayments, Mahmod unlocked larger credit lines. To date, he has utilized over PHP 2.2 million (approx. $38,600) to sustain daily operations and explore new business lines.
Turning side hustles into community staples
In Boracay, store owner Von Bindolo first discovered digital merchant services while working in Manila, using them to sell mobile load as extra income. When she moved back to take over her family sari-sari store, tourism in the area hit a standstill during the pandemic. Local residents relied heavily on neighborhood shops for bills payment and cash transfers.
An initial loan of PHP 20,000 (approx. $350) through Maya Advance allowed Bindolo to keep investing in her inventory during a difficult period. Since then, she has accessed over PHP 2.6 million (approx. $45,600) in working capital, enabling her to purchase an operational e-bike and support her child’s education.
How Pinoy merchants access capital
For small business owners across the country, digital tools available through the Maya Business mobile app and local Maya Center points allow cash-in, cash-out, QR Ph payments, and bill payment integration. Eligible merchants who maintain active transaction histories can access revolving credit lines directly within the platform.
Interested business owners can download the Maya Business app via Google Play and the Apple App Store, or visit maya.ph for more details.
