Global bank Citi once again shines the spotlight on outstanding Filipino microentrepreneurs who have successfully risen from poverty and built businesses for themselves while helping others and their communities.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and Citi Philippines and Microfinance Council of the Philippines, Inc., with funding support from Citi Foundation, partner for the 16th Citi Microentrepreneurship Awards. 

CMA recognizes and awards microentrepreneurs who have beaten the odds through hard work and perseverance, lifting themselves and others from poverty.  

BSP Governor Nestor A. Espenilla Jr. said, “CMA had inspired microentrepreneurs nationwide to reach greater heights.”

It also recognizes the strong support from microfinance institutions as key partners, and underscore the role the organizations play in financial inclusion and enterprise development.  

Chosen every year are the Microentrepreneur of the Year, regional awardees from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, and Youth Microentrepreneur of the Year. Special awards are given for agri micro-business, community leadership, and green/sustainable business. 

“CMA’s about the passion, energy, and commitment of microentrepreneurs to improve themselves and their families. At Citi, we are proud to help people pursue their dreams because we are committed to making a difference in the communities where we live and work,” said Citi Philippines chief executive officer Aftab Ahmed. 

Awardees will receive a total of P2 million cash prizes, as well as laptop computers, and entrepreneurship training and mentoring at the Citi Microenterprise Development Center.