CARD, Inc. Wins Microfinance Impact Maker Award for Solar Access

CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO) received the Microfinance Impact Maker Award from Hybrid Social Solutions on August 12, 2026, for its efforts to expand access to reliable and clean energy among Filipino communities.

The recognition highlighted CARD, Inc.’s Solar Loan program, which helped provide improved energy access and reliable lighting to 148,867 people from August 2025 to July 2026.

Through the program, CARD, Inc. enables its clients to purchase solar-powered products from Hybrid Social Solutions for household activities and business operations.

The initiative reached clients in various parts of the country, including Isabela, Laguna, Quezon, Mindoro, Palawan, Romblon, Bicol, Samar, Leyte, Negros, Iloilo, Aklan, Antique, Cebu, and Davao del Sur.

The use of solar-powered devices provides an alternative to kerosene-based lighting for clients who previously depended on such lamps. CARD, Inc. said the transition helps minimize fire risks and respiratory health concerns associated with kerosene use, while also helping households reduce electricity expenses and support sustainable energy consumption.

CARD, Inc. Executive Director Vicente Briones Jr. said the recognition reflects the purpose of the institution’s Solar Loan service.

“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.”

CARD units also recognized

Aside from the institutional award, Hybrid Social Solutions recognized CARD, Inc. unit offices through the Impact Maker Awards 2026 — Unit Category.

CARD, Inc.’s Aborlan 1 and Culion 1 units in Palawan placed first and second, respectively, while Sablayan 3 in Occidental Mindoro secured third place.

Briones accepted the institutional award together with regional directors overseeing the recognized units during the 9th Annual Hybrid Impact Network Fellowship & Recognition Night held in Malate, Metro Manila.

The recognition underscores the role of microfinance-linked initiatives in helping communities gain access to solar-powered technologies for household and livelihood needs.