Championing growth: Global Dominion’s executive earns dual recognition for leadership and SME empowerment

Philstar.com

April 30, 2026 | 2:00pm

for Global Dominion

MANILA, Philippines — Patricia Poco-Palacios, president and CEO of Global Dominion Financing Inc., has earned back-to-back international distinctions that underscore her growing influence in Philippine finance and her commitment to advancing small business development.

She was named Best Women CEO for SME Empowerment Initiatives (Philippines 2025) by the Global Business Outlook Awards and was later recognized as Best Emerging Leader in Non Banking (Philippines 2025) at the 13th Annual International Finance Awards ceremony held last January 23.

Together, the recognitions highlight her leadership in expanding credit access for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs)—a sector widely regarded as the backbone of the Philippine economy.

“Our mission has always been about expanding access,” Poco-Palacios said. “We focus on building credit solutions for entrepreneurs who are often left out of traditional banking, because when small businesses grow, communities grow with them.”

Bridging the MSME financing gap

The Global Business Outlook recognizes companies and executives across industries for innovation and leadership excellence in global markets. This year’s program placed particular emphasis on initiatives that empower SMEs, an area where Poco-Palacios’ leadership has been especially impactful.

Under her direction, Global Dominion has strengthened programs designed to open credit pathways for entrepreneurs traditionally underserved by conventional banking institutions. By addressing persistent barriers such as limited collateral and financial literacy gaps, the company has developed financing solutions tailored to the realities of small business owners.

Beyond supporting business expansion, these initiatives contribute to job creation, stronger local economies and increased entrepreneurial confidence in the communities Global Dominion serves.

Rising influence in non-banking finance

The International Finance Awards distinction cements Poco-Palacios as a rising leader shaping the future of Philippine non-banking financial services. This award honors executives who demonstrate exceptional career growth, measurable business performance and meaningful industry impact. These qualities are increasingly vital as non-bank financial institutions fill critical gaps in the country's credit ecosystem.

Winners are selected based on documented achievements and the strength of their track record in their respective fields.

For Poco-Palacios, this recognition reflects how Global Dominion has evolved under her leadership from simply a financing provider into a true development partner for Filipino entrepreneurs. Her approach balances financial sustainability with social impact, a combination that has helped differentiate the company in a competitive and rapidly evolving industry.

A model for inclusive leadership

As the Philippines continues to pursue inclusive economic growth, expanded MSME access to capital and greater representation of women in financial leadership remain interconnected priorities. Poco-Palacios’ achievements offer a working model for how purpose-driven leadership can deliver both business results and broader community progress.

“Every loan we extend is an investment in families, communities and the future of our nation,” Poco-Palacios said. “When Filipino entrepreneurs succeed, the impact goes far beyond business—it strengthens the foundation of inclusive growth.”

As Global Dominion continues expanding its MSME programs under her direction, these international honors serve as both validation of past impact and a platform for spreading the message that accessible finance is essential to national development. In an era demanding fresh solutions to persistent inequality, Global Dominion’s work demonstrates that visionary leadership and inclusive growth are not opposing forces but complementary goals.

Editor’s Note: This press release is sponsored by Global Dominion. It is published by the Advertising Content Team that is independent from our Editorial Newsroom.