Judith Dadula had been borrowing money through “5-6” lending, an informal money-lending scheme, where a borrower pays back 6 pesos for every 5 pesos borrowed – equivalent to a steep 20% interest rate. Though quick and collateral-free, this left her struggling and deeper in debt.

In 2017, Bayanihan Bank – then still known as the Rural Bank of Atimonan (RBA) - opened a branch in her hometown of San Andres, Quezon. Judith applied for an initial loan of PHP 3,000. Using PHP 1,000 as capital for her business, she sold repacked goods like salt, pepper, and daily essentials at the town market.

As sales picked up, Judith grew her business steadily, continuing to avail of Bayanihan Bank’s microfinance loans to expand her operations and diversify her products. She and her husband purchased a motorcycle, allowing them to sell their goods beyond the market and to reach more customers. To maximize the couple’s daily vending trips, they invested in a tricycle – what she calls katas ng RBA (fruits of RBA). With their upgraded ride, they were able to go from one barangay to another, reaching as far as Villa Reyes in San Narciso, Quezon, over an hour away from San Andres.

Judith now has three motorcycles, two of which are used for the business. She also runs a sari-sari store from her home and has invested in a sizable plot of land. When asked about her plans for the land, she says it is an investment for their later years – para may pagdudukutan, a reserve to draw from when needed.

With three of her five children now married, Judith’s drive remains strong as ever. Talking to customers makes her happy, and she thrives on the hustle. Judith continues to be an active microfinance client of Bayanihan Bank, and she maintains a voluntary savings account to set aside funds for her family’s future. With much pride, she says that for as long as she is able, she will keep doing what she does for a living.