In a significant move to meet the rising demand for international money transfers, the Palawan Group of Companies has officially launched its new service, Pera Padala Abroad. This initiative, created in partnership with the global remittance giant RIA Money Transfer, aims to provide Filipinos with a secure, convenient, and affordable channel to send financial support to loved ones and partners across the globe.
Expanding a Legacy of Trust to Global Shores
The launch marks the Palawan Group's strategic expansion into the outbound remittance market, building on the deep trust established by its domestic Pera Padala services. Karlo M. Castro, President and CEO of the Palawan Group, framed this development as a natural extension of the company's mission. He emphasized that their core promise of "mura, mabilis, at walang kuskos-balungos na serbisyo" (affordable, fast, and reliable service) now extends beyond Philippine borders.
This expansion responds to a clear economic and social need. Outbound remittances are growing as Filipinos increasingly engage with the global economy—supporting children studying overseas, transacting as freelancers with international clients, managing business payments, and assisting family members working abroad. Given that remittances constitute roughly 7% of the Philippines' GDP, providing a reliable outbound service is crucial for national financial health.
How Pera Padala Abroad Works for Filipinos
The service is designed for maximum accessibility and ease of use. Customers can initiate a transfer through two primary channels:
- The PalawanPay mobile app, allowing transactions anytime, anywhere.
- Over 3,500 Palawan Express Pera Padala (PEPP) branches nationwide.
Lilian C. Selda, Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer of the Palawan Group, highlighted the focus on removing friction: "No long lines. No complicated forms. Just a few taps to support loved ones wherever they may be in the world."
Transactions are processed in real-time, with funds sent instantly once a reference number is issued. Senders can transfer money to bank accounts, e-wallets, or cash pick-up locations in the recipient's country. A key feature is the flexibility in currency; funds can be converted into the destination's currency or kept in the recipient's preferred one. The service boasts fees starting at ₱300 and competitive exchange rates to maximize the value sent.
A Powerful Partnership for Global Reach
The backbone of this new service is the strategic alliance with RIA Money Transfer. RIA's massive global network, which includes over 500,000 pick-up locations, ensures that Pera Padala Abroad can deliver funds reliably even to remote and underserved areas worldwide.
Espen Kristensen, Managing Director and Chairman of the Board for Asia Pacific at RIA, underscored the synergy of the partnership. He stated that RIA brings established compliance protocols, operational expertise, and consistent service standards to the table, ensuring that Filipinos can send money safely and conveniently to over 200 countries.
The collaboration was formalized in a meeting between executives from both companies, including RIA's Steve Peregrino, Regional Director for Business Development Asia Pacific, and the Palawan Group's leadership team.
By launching Pera Padala Abroad, the Palawan Group reinforces its commitment to financial inclusion, now on a global scale. It combines decades of local trust with world-class remittance technology, empowering Filipinos to stay connected with their families and participate confidently in the international economy. Sending money abroad has indeed been made easier for millions.
