In a heartfelt tribute to its roots and remarkable journey, the Palawan Group of Companies, one of the Philippines’ leading financial services providers, kicked off its 40th anniversary celebration by honoring the loyal men and women who helped build the company from the ground up.
At the center of the celebration were the recipients of the Gintong Lingkod Awards—employees who have dedicated 20, 25, and 30 years of service to Palawan. These long-serving individuals, hailed as the heroes behind the success of the organization, were flown along with their families to the company’s headquarters in Puerto Princesa City for a red-carpet celebration in their honor.
The awards ceremony was graced by company founders, top executives, and partners, all gathered to recognize the awardees not just for their years of service, but for embodying the values of “Husay na Tatak Palawan” and “Serbisyong Pusong Palawan.”
“You are our founding ates and kuyas, ‘nangs and ‘nongs—those who carried the Kulturang Palawan of integrity and genuine service,” said Korina Castro-Fernando, Palawan Group’s Chief Human Resources Officer. “It’s this culture that formed the bedrock of the company and brought us to where we are today.”
She expressed the Castro family’s deep gratitude for the unwavering trust of employees who believed in the company’s mission—from its humble beginnings as a small pawnshop in Puerto Princesa to its rise as a globally recognized financial services provider known for being Matatag, Maaasahan, at Mapagkakatiwalaan.
The emotion was palpable when Deputy Chair and Co-Founder Angelita M. Castro took the stage, sharing:
“You are not just witnesses to our history—you helped build it. Bobby and I may have started this journey, but we would never have reached 40 years, or achieved the success we have now, without your dedication and love for this company.”
Several awardees also shared moving testimonies, reflecting on how Palawan has not only changed their professional lives but also shaped them as individuals.
“When I say I’ve been well-compensated, I don’t just mean financially,” said Flora Mae Salarzon, a 25-year awardee. “We are enriched mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. We’re not just employees here—we’re guided, supported, and nurtured. We grow as professionals, as parents, and as people.”
Another awardee, Ma. Criselda Emnace, echoed the same sentiment, emphasizing how “malasakit” for customers—what she calls Customer Love—is the heart of the Palawan brand. “This job became my purpose. I serve not just to finish a task, but to truly make a difference.”
Each honoree received a 24K Palawan Gold coin, presented onstage by the company’s leaders, accompanied by heartfelt embraces and proud family members. The ceremony was filled with laughter, applause, and tears of gratitude—underscoring the deep bonds formed over decades of shared purpose.
The Gintong Lingkod Awards is more than just a ceremony. It’s a reflection of Palawan Group’s enduring commitment to nurturing a workplace where employees are not just valued but empowered and celebrated. It also reaffirms the company’s pledge to uphold Tatak Palawan—a legacy of service, humility, and bayanihan that continues to inspire generations.
As the Palawan Group of Companies moves forward into its next chapter, its message is clear: its people remain its greatest strength—and the heart of its success.
