In the pursuit of becoming a global leader in microfinance and
community-based social
development, the Center
for Agriculture and Rural
Development Mutually
Reinforcing Institutions
(CARD MRI) stands as a
beacon of empowerment
for socially and economically challenged women
and families in the Philippines. Founded by Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip, who
received the prestigious
Ramon Magsaysay Award
for Public Service in 2008,
CARD MRI has been a
driving force in transforming lives since its inception
in 1986.
Driven by a set
of core values known as
Competence, Family Spirit, Integrity, Stewardship,
Humility, Excellence, and
Simplicity—CARD MRI
has established itself as
a paragon of holistic development. Its unwavering
commitment to creating a
poverty-free Philippines
has propelled it to the forefront of social organizations in the country
From its early
days, CARD MRI has targeted landless women as
its primary beneficiaries.
By offering microloans for
small-scale livelihood activities, education, health,
and agriculture through
CARD, Inc., the institution has not only provided financial support but
has also equipped these
women with the skills and
knowledge needed to uplift themselves and their
families. Through this approach, CARD MRI has
contributed significantly to
economic development at
the grassroots level.
At the heart of
CARD MRI’s mission is
the creation of sustainable financial and capacity-building institutions
owned and led by socially
and economically challenged families. This innovative approach ensures
that the communities
themselves play a pivotal
role in their development
journey. The integration
of microfinance with social development services,
such as credit with education and leadership training, has further solidified
CARD MRI’s impact.
As CARD MRI
celebrates 37 years of service, its legacy of empowerment continues to grow.
The institution’s dedication
to its core values, its focus
on women’s empowerment, and its commitment
to integrated services
have made it a true force
for positive change. With
every microloan granted,
every family empowered,
and every community
transformed, CARD MRI
takes another step forward
in its noble quest to eradicate poverty and build a
stronger, more prosperous
nation.
