Unacash helps a motorcycle store grow

Filipino motorcycle riders have the following things in common — they are generous, that no one plans on getting into an accident, and those who take safety seriously better know how to properly wear a helmet.

This is what Raul Gabane, the proud owner of Gabane’s Moto Gear Zonea small shop in Pasig City that has gone beyond the usual selling for accessories to motorcycle or moto riders, believes. For him, it’s more so about educating people on safety and showcasing his deep commitment to the riding community, both of which have quietly translated to a solid following.

Gabane started the business in 2008 while working as a security guard, with his first sale being a helmet for ₱2,000. The first five years saw him operate his online business and only get three hours of sleep a day. His sacrifice paid off in 2013, when he was able to successfully establish a physical store in Bgy. Malinao.

Being a part of the community made him more aware of rider safety, which he has been consistently advocating to his customers and his online audience — now at over 39,000 on Facebook. “Huwag dapat ipilit kung anong mayroon na product, lalo na kung para naman ito sa safety. Pagdating sa safety gears, mas lamang ka kung may alam ka. Ang kagandahan kung rider ka din, mas alam mo kung paano magagamit ang safety gears sa pagkakataon na magra-ride ka, hindi lang benta ang purpose,” he said.

Gabane added that his shop’s products offer more than just good looks,  they also provide crucial protection. Recognizing that many Filipino riders favor lighter fabrics, Gabane saw an opportunity to educate the public on safety proactively, rather than waiting for accidents to occur.

Even with the success of a physical store, Gabane balances this out by leveraging the business’ social media presence to bridge the online success and in-person service. This dedication to accessibility and customer convenience led Gabane to team up with UnaCash, an in-app and in-store financing solution. This service has a similar approach, balancing both physical and digital.

Gabane explained that convenience was the main reason for this partnership. While he’s busy managing the business and serving many customers, the self-service system of UnaCash has proven helpful. Customers can complete their applications themselves, and once approved, Gabane’s team simply confirms the application. This way, with the contribution of the partnership, the products can be easily accessed by more customers.

Gabane’s passion for riding safety extends far beyond his business. Together with his wife Shiela, they plan to remain deeply committed to helping others within the riding community and beyond.

Gabane also leads the Region 8 Riders Club, a multi-chapter group of motorcyclists who are also dedicated to assisting those in need, particularly in provincial areas. Last year, the group quickly provided basic necessities, hygiene kits, and new school supplies to about 200 families that were affected by a destructive mudflow in Belete, Batangas after Typhoon Kristine wreaked havoc. The club also has an annual tradition of self-funding food packs for adults and the elderly, and providing school supplies for children.

UnaCash offers people-centric, in-app and in-store digital financial solutions tailored to the evolving needs of Filipinos. Its ‘Buy now, Pay later’ service has been upgraded to include point-of-sale loans, accessible via online and in-store partner merchants. With the help of analytics and data-driven technologies, UnaCash is driven to continuously improve products and develop new services that will bridge critical financial gaps in the Philippines. The UnaCash app is available through the Google Play Store and Huawei AppGallery.