Daryl Talandron

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Starting Point

Daryl Talandron is the Research Supervisor at RAFI Microfinance Inc. (RAFI MFI). This customer-focused organisation aims to empower micro-entrepreneurs, who are key players in the social development sector, at every stage of their business journey. This includes providing financial services, training, and other forms of support to help individuals and small businesses succeed. 

As Research Supervisor, Daryl is responsible for overseeing the organisation's research. His work is to ensure that the organisation obtains insights regarding the needs of micro-entrepreneurs and the effectiveness of existing programmes. Based on that, it can develop new initiatives that further empower its clients. The organisation is also committed to enhancing the livelihoods of micro-entrepreneurs, improving their access to resources, and promoting sustainable growth within communities.

Peace Journey

Daryl is part of the RAFI MFI’s initiative to help organisations adapt to the 'new normal' in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic by embracing digital transformation. Recognising the need to innovate and enhance its services, the organisation introduced technology-driven solutions to serve its clients better and improve their lives. One of the key innovations was the launch of ‘KaagAPPay,’ a mobile app designed to streamline financial transactions and provide easy access to essential services for micro-entrepreneurs. This mobile platform enabled clients to manage their finances more efficiently, access information, and stay connected with the organisation even during periods of restricted physical interaction.

In addition to digital transformation, the organisation responded swiftly to the challenges posed by Super Typhoon Odette, which devastated much of Cebu in late 2021. It had to quickly reassess its approach to disaster recovery and find new ways to assist its clients and their families during this crisis. It provided comprehensive financial and non-financial services to support recovery efforts. These included calamity assistance, emergency loans, and training and development programmes designed to help clients rebuild their businesses and communities. By offering immediate relief and long-term recovery support, it played a crucial role in helping its clients recover from the disaster, demonstrating its adaptability and commitment to empowering micro-entrepreneurs in the face of adversity. 

Success Stories

Over the years, RAFI MFI has significantly expanded its services to meet the evolving needs of its clients. It offers a comprehensive range of financial and non-financial assistance, each tailored to address the specific challenges that micro-entrepreneurs face. This includes everything from emergency loans and savings programmes to business development training and disaster relief, ensuring clients receive the support they need to overcome financial insecurity and thrive in their businesses.

The organisation’s reach has extended well beyond its roots in Cebu, now operating in Bohol, Leyte, Negros, and other regions across the Philippines. From 2015 to 2022, it established an impressive network of 293 branches, strengthening its presence and impact throughout the country. This growth underscores the organisation’s commitment to empowering small business owners and micro-entrepreneurs, especially in underserved areas.

As a transformative microfinance institution, it aspires to address financial insecurity throughout the Philippines. It aims to improve its clients' financial stability and overall well-being by offering holistic and innovative services. This includes business training, disaster recovery support, financial literacy education, and community development initiatives designed to create long-term, positive change.

It strives to strike a balance between its social mission of improving the quality of life for small entrepreneurs and its commitment to maintaining sustainable economic growth. By providing tailored support, the organisation empowers its clients to build more resilient businesses, strengthening local economies and contributing to the broader goal of poverty alleviation.