BPI partners with Handyman for SME credit line

BANK of the Philippine Islands (BPI) has partnered with hardware and home improvement chain Handyman to provide a credit facility for small and medium enterprises (SME).

The Ka-Negosyo Credit Line is a revolving credit facility that functions like an extended wallet as it gives SMEs access to cash for large or unexpected orders and recurring and bulk purchases, giving them financial flexibility, BPI said in a statement on Monday.

Eligible Handyman SME customers can purchase inventory and supplies in bulk to ensure smooth cash flow and improve payment and inventory management.

They will be charged with interest only on the amount they use, with repayment terms aligned to their cash flow.

They will also be eligible for exclusive promotions and tailored offers from BPI.

The partnership is expected to benefit over 500 Handyman SME customers nationwide, particularly those in construction, home improvement, retail, and related industries, BPI said. They can access the program at Handyman’s 183 stores nationwide.

“Through this partnership with Handyman, we are reaffirming BPI’s commitment to be the trusted Ka-Negosyo of Filipino entrepreneurs,” BPI Business Banking Head Dominique R. Ocliasa said in a press release on Monday.

“Our goal is to make access to working capital and business funding more madali, magaan, at mabilis (easy, light, and fast), enabling SMEs to confidently seize opportunities and focus on growing their businesses.”

The bank’s SME loans grew by 80% year on year in 2025, it said.

BPI’s net income rose by 1.7% to P16.92 billion in the first quarter. Its shares dropped by P2.20 or 2.2% to end at P98 apiece on Monday. — A.M.C. Sy