DSWD MIMAROPA successfully conducted a 3-day skills and business training for the five Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations (SLPAs) last September 9 – 11, 2024, at the Cultural Heritage Municipal Compound, Sofronio, Española, Palawan.

Aiming to improve participants’ knowledge and skills in Hog Raising, Vegetable Gardening, Financial Literacy, Marketing Strategies, Customer Service, and Micro-enterprise Development III, the training benefitted the SLPAs, namely Negosyanteng Ina SLPA-Sari-Sari Store, Centro Masigasig SLPA, Pulot Luningning SLPA, Dakilang Magsasaka SLPA, and Market Day Vendors SLPA.

The activity kicked off with comprehensive hog-raising and vegetable gardening training facilitated by Engr. Mario T. Devera and Rolet E. Suanque, Agricultural Technologists of the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO), where participants learned best practices for sustainable farming, focusing on efficient breeding techniques, proper feeding, and organic vegetable gardening. 

The second day highlighted discussions on advanced financial literacy by Gaynalyn T. Candal, Business Counselor of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Negosyo Center where SLPAs were taught proper financial recording methods and cash flow management. 

 

Further, Joielene Y. Caabay, Instructor I of Palawan State University, presented marketing strategies and customer service excellence. During the session, participants explored innovative marketing techniques and learned how to deliver superior customer service to attract and retain customers in a competitive marketplace.

To wrap up, SLP PDO – Capacity Building Moises Daniel Aban brought the focus to Micro-enterprise Development Training III, where he facilitated a session on Effective Negotiation Skills and an introduction to the Value Chain and its primary activities. The SLPAs were equipped with practical tools for negotiating better business deals and understanding how each link in the value chain, from procurement to customer service, can enhance their business operations and profitability.

This 3-day comprehensive training provided the program participants with crucial skills to grow and sustain their enterprises, which will significantly contribute to the success and sustainability of the five SLPAs, ensuring their continued growth and impact in their local communities. 

 

 

Contributor: Bernard Briones, SLP Palawan Project Development Officer II