CARD, Inc. honored with Microfinance Impact Maker Award for bringing solar access to Filipino communities

By Jireh Pearl Casionan

CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO) was recognized with the Microfinance Impact Maker Award by
Hybrid Social Solutions on August 12, 2026, for bringing reliable light and improving energy
access for 148,867 people from August 2025 to July 2026.

CARD, Inc. offers a Solar Loan program that lets clients purchase solar-powered products from
Hybrid Social Solutions for daily household activities and business operations.

Through this loan program, clients nationwide gained access to clean energy solutions. Key
coverage areas included Isabela, Laguna, Quezon, Mindoro, Palawan, Romblon, Bicol, Samar,
Leyte, Negros, Iloilo, Aklan, Antique, Cebu, and Davao del Sur.

Switching to these solar devices allows kerosene-dependent clients to replace hazardous lamps
with safer lighting. This minimizes fire risks and respiratory health issues in their households. In
addition, these solar kits help reduce electricity expenses and support sustainable energy use.
Reflecting on this impact, CARD, Inc. Executive Director Vicente Briones Jr. shared his sentiment,
saying, “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.”

In addition to the award received by the institution, Hybrid Social Solutions also recognized CARD
Inc.’s unit offices in the Impact Maker Awards 2026 (Unit Category). Palawan’s Aborlan 1 and
Culion 1 units took 1st and 2nd place, respectively, while Occidental Mindoro’s Sablayan 3 unit
secured 3rd place.

CARD, Inc. Executive Director Vicente Briones Jr. accepted the award, along with regional
directors overseeing the recognized units, during the 9th Annual Hybrid Impact Network
Fellowship & Recognition Night in Malate, Metro Manila.