PalawanPay, the digital wallet of the Palawan Group of Companies, has partnered with the University of the Philippines Women’s Volleyball Team (UPWVT) to advance youth development and sports excellence through collegiate athletics. The collaboration highlights the role of sports in shaping values-driven young Filipinos, while supporting the team as it represents the university with honor, excellence, and pride.
Sports development is among the key pillars of the Palawan Group’s Corporate Social Responsibility programs, emphasizing the company’s position that athletics serve as a powerful force for nation-building. Through this collaboration, PalawanPay provides support that allows the UPWVT to focus on training, competition, and holistic athlete development. Beyond visibility, the partnership delivers practical resources that address the team’s daily needs, athlete welfare, and long-term sustainability, helping UP foster student-athletes’ growth both on and off the court.
Palawan Group Chief Marketing Officer Bernard V. Kaibigan shares his message of pride and support for the UPWVT.
Palawan Group Chief Marketing Officer Bernard V. Kaibigan expressed his pride in supporting the UPWVT: “As a UP alumnus and a volleyball enthusiast, I am proud that PalawanPay will continue supporting the team for many seasons to come. UP has always represented the best of Filipino talent: intelligence paired with integrity, excellence grounded in service. The UP Women’s Volleyball Team embodies this spirit. You ladies are strong, determined, disciplined, and you deserve to be supported and celebrated.”
This collaboration reflects PalawanPay’s long-standing support for the University of the Philippines and the UP Fighting Maroons. Since 2019, the Palawan Group of Companies, led by founders Bobby and Angelita Castro and their five UP-alumnus children, has supported UP athletes across different sports, providing resources, guidance, and encouragement to help them grow and succeed. Recently, PalawanPay supported the Men’s Basketball, Judo, and Swimming Teams in UAAP Season 88. The partnership is also marked by occasional celebrations, such as the Champions’ Thanksgiving Dinner, held to honor the Fighting Maroons’ victories and recognize the dedication and achievements of UP athletes across disciplines.
UPWVT Head Coach Benson Bocboc expressed his gratitude to the Palawan Group, stating: “We would like to sincerely thank the Palawan Group for being one of our valued sponsors and steadfast partners. Three years ago, we started this program with a simple but powerful vision: ‘To grow, to compete, and to win.’ It’s something sustainable for our student-athletes. Today, that mission continues to come to life because of partners like you who believe in developing talent, character, and excellence. Thank you, Palawan Group, for trusting the process and standing with us every step of the way.”
UPWVT opposite hitter Kianne Louise Olango and captain Joanne Marie Monares proudly showcase the PalawanPay app.
Through its support of the UPWVT, PalawanPay continues to play a meaningful role in Philippine sports. By ensuring that student-athletes have the tools, guidance, and encouragement necessary they need to thrive, the partnership fosters a culture of excellence, perseverance, and leadership that shapes athletes into role models both on and off the field.
