#NegosyoStories

100

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

Message from the DTI Secretary

Let me offer my congratulations to the Department of Trade and
Industry(DTI)-Nueva Ecija as it publishes its first volume of Negosyo Center
Book of Short Stories on the Negosyo Center Way. The socio-economic
growth of our country relies on the contributions of our Micro, Small, and
Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which compromise 99% of economic activity
across our regions. Through the hard work and perseverance of our
entrepreneurs, but also create jobs and livelihood for their community.
On the part of DTI, we remain committed to pursuing initiatives that will make it easier for MSMEs
to flourish and contribute to the development of our local communities as called on by President
Rodrigo Roa Duterte, especially during this time of the pandemic. Through our COVID-19 Assistance
to Restart Entteroruses (CARES) Program, a microfinancing fund of the Small Business Corportation
(SB Corp.), MSMEs affected by the pandemic can avail of interest-free loans and government
assistance.
To make our MSMEs adapt in today’s “New Normal” as well as future-ready, DTI has been
promoting e-commerce and onboarding MSMEs online—though we have been doing this even
before COVID-19. By offering free online tech tools and webinars, we want to help entrepreneurs
reinvent their business models, maximize their opportunities in the digital space and broaden their
market access via the internet.
These stories of success are a testament to DTI’s service and advocacy to provide MSMEs with
opportunities for growth and to unlock their potential as nation-builders. It is truly heartwarming
to see that the interventions made by our Negosyo Centers through the dedication of our Business
Counselors have positively impacted the lives and businesses of MSMEs.

i | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way
May this publication inspure and empower aspiring entrepreneurs to become key players in
building an enabling and competitive business environment for our MSMEs. As we adjust to the
“New Normal,” let us also create a “Better Normal” that would promote inclusive development
and sustainable progress for all Filipinos. On behalf of DTI, it is an honor to have been part of your
entrepreneurial journey. Mabuhay!
RAMON M. LOPEZ
DTI Secretary

ii | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

MESSAGE FROM THE UNDERSECRETARY FOR REGIONAL
OPERATIONS GROUP

It is truly a great honor for me to be part of the launching of this e-book
featuring the success stories of our Novo Ecijano micro, small, and medium
entrepreneurs (MSMEs). This will certainly serve as guide for existing and
aspiring entrepreneurs from which they can draw inspiration and brilliant
strategies for their entrepreneurial journey.
Through its Regional and Provincial Offices as well as the Negosyo Centers nationwide, the
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is able to extend its services and interventions that help
transform the lives of many of our entrepreneurs. The testimonials of these selected MSMEs
assisted and developed by our DTI-Nueva Ecija Provincial Office, which are chronicled in this digital
book, can easily be accessed anytime, all the time, from anywhere and from any device a reader
may choose.
The DTI-Regional Operations Group commits support to the MSMEs across the country. The
MSMEs help generate, distribute, and redistribute national wealth by creating jobs and generating
income. That is why this sector is considered as the engine of the country’s economic growth. Let
their stories inspire more people and change more lives.
Congratulations to Team DTI-Nueva Ecija for this great compilation of stories of perseverance,
resiliency and victory! Mabuhay po kayo!

BLESILA A. LANTAYONA
Undersecretary

iii | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

Message from the Regional Director

One of the missions of DTI is to enable inclusive, competitive and innovative
businesses. With the resources we have, the men and women of DTI try to
provide assistance, advice as well as new equipment and systems to
entrepreneurs in Central Luzon to help them improve their operations. In
their entrepreneurial journey, we at DTI Region3 are honored to be part of
these journeys and success stories.
Not everyone is an entrepreneur. Not everyone can build story like an MSME. Each plot is their
story may include blood, sweat and tears. Putting their experiences into words and pictures is not
easy task, and it takes courage to put these experiences into a story. I am glad that DTI Nueva Ecija
took the initiative to compile the success stories of some of our clients
These stories start and continue differently, but they are true stories – not only of making money
of selling a product or service.
These stories are about real people with ideas – pushed by poverty, persistence, commitment, love
and integrity.
Congratulations to DTI Nueva Ecija for this well-prepared compilation of success stories of our
client MSMEs! Congratulations also to the featured entrepreneurs who shared their stories, their
experiences and their learnings on how we at DTI became a part of their life. It is hoped that
through this compilation, many more MSMEs will be inspired by stories of perseverance,
commitment and success.

JUDITH P. ANGELES
JRuedgiitohnaPl.DAirnegcetoler,sDTI-Region 3

iv | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

Message from the Provincial Director

It is with great pride sharing with you the compilation of Negosyo Center (NC)
stories that are worth telling and living for; stories that are fruits of labor of
our very dedicated and passionate Business Counsellors who really go out of
their way to scout for potential, new and existing Micro, Small and Medium
Enterprises (MSMEs) in the cities, municipalities and even barangays and assist
them by bridging their gaps or needs.
These simple stories of individuals assisted by the NCs are manifestations of
the impact of RA 10644 or the Go Negosyo Act that aims to bring closer to people the government
programs and services. From the time that we established the NCs in 2015, total of 20 as of
December 2018, we have seen the growth of MSMEs in the province. These MSMEs have been
assisted holistically and benefitted from the agency’s programs such as SME Roving Academy
(SMERA), Kapatid Mentor Micro-Enterprises (KMME), One Town One Product (OTOP) Next
Generation (NG), Trabaho, Negosyo, Kabuhayan (TNK), among others. Through the NCs, we were
able to identify new products that have great potentials and provided product development
assistance such as improving their packaging and labels. The MSMEs have been invited to
participate to various local trade fairs to provide market exposure.
Other assistances were made possible through collaboration with the members of the Nueva Ecija
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council that have been very supportive to the
DTI’s programs and services especially on MSME development.
The interventions made by the NCs through the Business Counselors have really impacted the lives
and business of the MSMEs. The acknowledgment and simple gestures of these MSMEs of how
they were transformed is a great achievement on our part.
The agency will continue to identify and assist more MSMEs through the NCs and provide them
with “Serbisyong Higit Pa sa Inaasahan”.

BRIGIDA T. PILI, CESO V
Provincial Director
DTI Nueva Ecija

v | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1
3
Introduction 5
Kabuteng Barrio: Noble Intention Turned to Business with Great Potential 5
Almira’s Beads Work: There is Light After Dark 7
Celine Nail Salon and Spa: It is Worth Taking the Risk 8
Trainee Turned Entrepreneur the Fragrant Way 9
There is Hope and Bright Future in Acapulco 11
Anthchen Homemade Special Peanut Butter: Mother Knows Best 12
Creation for Passion and Intention 13
Malutong, Malasa, Malaman… Malamang Inantala Sibut Yan! 14
Alona’s Food Products: Sarap na Tumatatak 15
Hailey’s Delicacies: Libangan na Kumikita 17
Boss Proy’s Mushroom and Delicacies: Serving to Delight 18
Sweet Art by Trisha 19
A Clean Start 20
Food Brothers 21
Employee Turned Dairy Entrepreneur 22
Cold Treats 23
Weaving the Future of IPs 24
Spreading the Good Taste 26
Healthy Drink Alternative 27
Re-cycle, Re-imagine, Re-create
Buko Juice Pa More
Food Delights

vi | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

Wines that Matter 28
Jammin’ with Cacao 29
Sweet Alternatives 31
There is Hope in Turmeric 32
Pastor Turned Mushroom Lover and Grower 33
There is Wealth in Coco, Peanut and Turmeric 34
Delighting Everyone with Crispy Chips 35
Best Empanada In Town 36
Butterrific Peanut Whip 37
Negosyo Center Locations 39
Negosyo Center Directory—District 1 40
Negosyo Center Directory—District 2 41
Negosyo Center Directory—District 3 42
Negosyo Center Directory—District 4 43
What is Negosyo Center? 44
Acknowledgement 45

vii | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

INTRODUCTION

The #NegosyoStories Volume 1 is a compilation of success
stories of Nueva Ecija’s Micro, Small and Medium Entrepreneurs
written by our Business Counselors.

The book aims to share the stories of success of our home-
grown MSMEs to inspire others in doing business and to showcase
the impact of the Negosyo Centers’ Services established in the
Province.

Stories to Tell… Stories to Share...

viii | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

KABUTENG BARRIO: NOBLE INTENTION TURNED TO BUSINESS WITH GREAT POTENTIAL
By: BC Regine Jimenez

From being an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) to a big time mushroom farm owner, and now a
successful business woman with a purpose, Monina Sarmiento Garcia decided to go back to the
country to do what she loves most – farming.

Through some knowledge attained by attending trainings in CLSU Mushroom Training Center,
Monina immediately started her business in August 2015 with the objective of providing jobs to
the community and letting the underprivileged enjoy the healthful benefits of mushroom in an
affordable price.

She then registered her business with the Department of Trade and Industry – Nueva Ecija through
the Negosyo Center – Gapan City on October 11, 2016 and secured the business permit at the
licensing office of San Isidro, Nueva Ecija a week after getting her Business Name Registration
Certificate. Afterwards, she also secured the business TIN and now she is a responsible taxpayer of
the BIR.

Her BMBE Certificate of Authority was released on December 14, 2016. Through the Negosyo
Center, she was endorsed for a loan to the New Rural Bank of San Leonardo Inc. for which she was
granted a non-collateralized loan amounting to P 100,000 just after two days upon submission of
the required documents.

Her mushroom products are being posted at the Facebook official account of Negosyo Center –
Gapan City. The presence of her business on social media opened doors to intervention especially
from the Department of Agriculture on their Bottom-up Budgeting project.

With the assistance of Negosyo Center – Gapan City, she was able to participate in trade fairs
organized by the DTI and other partner institutions such as those held in Bongabon, Cabanatuan
City and Palayan City. She was also invited by the Local Government Unit of Cabiao to exhibit in its
Organic Trade Fair.

1 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

Seminars and Trainings conducted by the Negosyo
Center had helped enhance her knowledge and
skills. She actively participated in the Seminar on
Entrepreneurship, Marketing Strategies, Briefing on
Go Negosyo and Barangay Microbusiness Enterprise
Act, Seminar on Financial Management and the
Basics of Investing in the Stock Market, and
Strategies of a Champion Entrepreneur.

Several field visits were conducted by the Business
Counselors of Negosyo Center – Gapan City and staff from the SME Development Division of the
DTI-Nueva Ecija to identify the needs of the enterprise. Advisory services were provided on how to
improve the mushroom farm including improvement of existing label/packaging of products.

Later, she was enrolled in the Great Women Project and was initially invited to attend one seminar.

With so much pride, Ms. Garcia said that the
Negosyo Center helped her unveil a window of
opportunities and also led to achieving popularity of
the business. The full support of the Government in
bringing closer its services to people keeps her going
despite the challenges and setbacks of engaging in
the business. She is thankful and truly amazed by
the very efficient services provided to her by the
Negosyo Center which to her mind is very rare act in
public service. With such very good experience on
customer service handling, she repeatedly uttered
that Government services are no longer behind
other countries in terms of quality and efficiency.

Being inspired and having faith in the continuous support of the Negosyo Center, she is now writing
her book entitled “Kabuteng Barrio Diary ng Kapalpakan at Palakpakan” to spread encouragement
among the Novo Ecijanos and serve as resource person on various trainings and seminars regarding
entrepreneurship and mushroom farming.

2 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

ALMIRA’S BEADS WORK: THERE IS LIGHT AFTER DARK
By: BC Maryjane A. Mercado

Keep trying until you succeed. This could be the perfect quote
that best describes Almira Cortez Beltran’s journey to the success
of her business -- Almira’s Beads Works.

It all started when sixth-grade Almira was influenced by her
neighbors. Along with her sister, Laarni Shiela C. Carani, they
started making stylish, colorful and affordable beaded bags,
bracelets, and key chains which were sold in their school and local
public market in San Jose City.

In 2012, Almira’s family moved to Antique as her husband’s work
was relocated there. Year after, they went back home to San Jose
City and with the encouragement of her sister Shiela, she
continued making beaded bags adding key chains, cellphone holders, coin purse in her line of
products.

In 2014, she stopped making beads and decided to try her luck working overseas. She worked as
Domestic Helper in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for nine months and unfortunately, she was imprisoned for
eight months due to accusation of having an affair with their employer’s driver. In shock and in
despair, she can’t even defend herself with her employer confiscating all her belongings including
her cellphone. She had no means of contacting her family in the Philippines. This turned out to be
despairing moment for Almira but despite of it she never loses hope. It was June 28, 2015, through
the help of a co-Filipino prisoner who was released on that day that she was able to ask for a favor
and requested to send the letter to her family informing what happened to her.

She volunteered as a worker in jail. She
worked for four months as a housekeeper
with a monthly salary of 350 riyals, then
three months as a livelihood volunteer,
making key chain from Swarovski materials.
They also provided her 150 riyals as
allowance for her basic needs. With hard
work, she was able to save 1,700 riyals or
equivalent to P23,500.00 then. After eight
long months in jail, she was pardoned by the
judge and went back to the Philippines on
February 24, 2016. She immediately went to

3 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

OWWA to report what happened in Riyadh. In return, she was able to receive her 1-month unpaid
salary amounting to P15,000.00. She used her savings to start her beaded bags business. She bought
the materials worth P10,000.00 in Quiapo and bought an installment sewing machine. She always
believed that in starting a business especially when you do not have much capital, stick to what you
know or like doing.

Having heard of the Pasalubong Center of San Jose City that will be opened, she immediately
inquired from the City Tourism Officer, Mr. Darmo Escuadro for the requirements needed to display
her products in the Center. She then secured her Business Name from the Department of Trade and
Industry (DTI) through the Negosyo Center – San Jose City on July 28, 2016 and other legal
documents such as Mayor’s permit and BIR registration.

Through the invitation of the DTI, Almira was able to participate in the Gatas ng Kalabaw Trade Fair
on August 10, 2016 at the PAG-ASA Gym, San Jose City and generated sales of P6,140.00. She also
participated during the Diskwento Caravan last September 11 to 12, 2016 and generated sales of
P4,440.00. She joined another fair in Science City of Muñoz for six days and generated sales of
P9,955.00. In November, her sales had amounted to P22,980.00.

Several assistances were extended by the
DTI - Nueva Ecija Provincial Office through
the Negosyo Center – San Jose City to
capacitate Ms. Beltran. She was invited to
various trainings such as Seminar on
Effective Business Negotiation and Selling
Technique, Product Dev, Simple
Bookkeeping, Business Continuity
Planning and Seminar on Personal
Finance.

In 2017, she became a Mentee during the
Kapatid Mentor Micro-enterprise (KMME)
program launch for batch 1. She was also
a beneficiary of the DTI’s One Town One Product (OTOP) Next Generation where several designs
were provided to level up her products. She is an active and regular exhibitor to DTI and non-DTI
organized local trade fairs.

Through the Negosyo Center, she was more inspired and motivated to work hard and continue to
pursue her dream of having her own Beads Store and be able to share her knowledge in making
beaded products.

4 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

CELINE NAIL SALON AND SPA: IT IS WORTH TAKING THE RISK
By: BC Kanary Luth P. Velasquez

Ms. Jocelyn O. Gracilla has been an employee all her life until she decided to
engage and take the risk of establishing her own business after participating
in the Entrepreneurship Training and BMBE Orientation conducted by the
Negosyo Center - Cabiao on June 14, 2016.
Subsequent registration with the DTI, through the Negosyo Center - Cabiao
and the Business Permit and Licensing Office of Cabiao took place. Her BMBE
Certificate of Authority was released by the DTI – Nueva Ecija on June 21,
2016.

On July 25, 2016, a business proposal was drafted after careful planning and
counselling made with the Negosyo Center and Ms. Gracilla was able to
secure a financial assistance from a friend.
The capital secured was used to rent a more spacious location for the
business. Currently, she is able to cater more clients and realize more profits.
Ms. Gracilla constantly engages the services Negosyo Center – Cabiao as part
of organizational strengthening.

TRAINEE TURNED ENTREPRENEUR THE FRAGRANT WAY
By: BC Cheryl C. Tejada

Most entrepreneurs start small and eventually work their way up to bigger businesses, the same
thing happened to Chiari-Dara Parfum which started their business after attending the perfume
making training conducted by Negosyo Center Talavera in 2017. Then, two months later with the
business opportunity in mind and P500.00 starting capital on hand, Chiari registered their business
name “Chiari-Dara Parfum” with DTI Nueva Ecija through Negosyo Center Talavera. According to the
owner, Mr. Chiari M. Manuel, their first step is to introduce selling perfumes and lotions in their
neighborhood within the municipality of Talavera.

5 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

However, in business startups not everything
turned okay as their products are not selling like hot
pancakes so they wanted to shut down the
business. Through the couple’s entrepreneurial
mind, they started giving free 2ml vials as freebies
to those who buy 10-50ml perfumes which
attracted the attention of more customers.
Additional innovation ideas created like changing stall decorations every two months to become
more eye-catching to clients.

Eventually, strategies like those mentioned led to
increased sales and with their extra income they
started putting up booths inside Friendship
Supermarket in Talavera and Guimba consecutively.

NC Talavera eventually convinced the owner to put
up their products at the Pasalubong Center
Talavera. Assistance from NC Talavera continued
especially on marketing. The owner has been invited
to join local trade fairs as opportunity to meet new
buyers.

To this day, the business is earning P11,000.00
monthly. Chiari and Dara narrate their secret to
success, “You should accept criticism on your
product and use it to improve and enhance it and in
business, you should have an open mind for new
ideas and new options”, the couple further explains.
Surely, through market strategies and skills, Chiari-
Dara Parfum is on the right track to success. Find
something you like to do and just do it.

6 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

THERE IS HOPE AND BRIGHT FUTURE IN ACAPULCO
By: BC Lester Rabanal

Despite being an undergraduate, diligent Nenia Bumagat Romero of Barangay Monic, Nampicuan,
achieved success in introducing the Acapulco Ointment to the market.

At the age of 50, Nenia was able to establish Acapulco
Ointment through the assistance of 10 self-help members.
Nenia is only an elementary graduate. The fact that she is not
a degree holder did not stop her to strive harder. She instead
treated it as motivation to grow her small venture resulting to
the success of her business. The idea of developing this
medication ointment came from Dra. Josie Isidro of PGH.
Nenia was grateful for sharing her the knowledge on how to produce the said product.

Through the business, she is able to finance the family’s daily needs and school expenses of his
youngest son who is a first year college at PIMSAT Colleges, Dagupan City. Her son helps in selling
Acapulco Ointment even when he was still studying at Recuerdo National High School to earn
enough to pay for his tuition fees and some as allowance. He says, “I will continue selling Acapulco
Ointment until I graduate”.

The establishment of the Negosyo Center (NC) in Nampicuan is a
blessing to Ms. Nenia. With the aggressive efforts of the Business
Counsellor at the NC to help the MSMEs in the municipality, several
businesses were provided with various assistance, one of them is
that of Ms. Nenia’s business. Determined to succeed, Ms. Nenia did
not have second thoughts accepting the assistance from NC
Nampicuan.

She was provided with consultancy services that led to the improvement of her product label. She
was also assisted in terms of marketing her products to reach more markets. She was invited to
participate in various local fairs such as Moringa Festival Fair and Fiestang Bayan in San Jose City. In
addition, she was assisted in having the product tested for its shelf-life and microbial analysis. With
the continued assistance of the NC, the business was able to penetrate other markets in addition to
churches in Nampicuan and San Jose City.

Acapulco Ointment is best for all skin allergies. These holy grails are being sold at the Holy Face
Immaculate Conception in Nampicuan, Chancery Diocese, City of San Jose, and at the Pasalubong
Center in Nampicuan. Through the use of Facebook and the NC Nampicuan Account, Acapulco
Ointment has become well known in Cuyapo, Guimba, Cebu, Manila, among others.

7 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

ANTHCHEN HOMEMADE SPECIAL PEANUT BUTTER: MOTHER KNOWS BEST
By: BC Imiemalen H. Sevillaga

What happens when a homemade Peanut Butter becomes a person’s bread and butter?
This scenario happened to Maricel F. Brutas of Anthchen’s Homemade Special Peanut
Butter.

Like what other aspiring businessmen do, Maricel
started her business small. She offered her product
within her neighborhood in Barangay Sapang Buho,
Palayan City. It was her mother who encouraged her
to put up a business in March 2016. When she
realized that she needed more knowledge and skills
to grow her business, she visited Negosyo Center
(NC) Palayan City to seek for assistance.

Anthchen’s Homemade Special Peanut Butter was
registered in DTI through NC Palayan City on April
17, 2017. During the business consultation with Ms.
Brutas, BC Janyne Luna offered to help her with the
design of her product logo and label.

Also, through the help of NC Palayan City, the product was displayed at NC-Palayan City
Pasalubong Center and posted through the Facebook page of NC Palayan City. Later on, BC
Imiemalen Sevillaga created the business’ Facebook page where she can post photos of her
products as promotion. Now, there are orders from other barangays of Palayan City like
Caimito, Santolan, Ganaderia and Fort Magsaysay. In addition, the product has already
reached nearby towns like Bongabon, Gabaldon and Cabanatuan City. NC Palayan City is
also getting order inquiries in wholesale for Anthchen’s Homemade Special Peanut Butter.
She also received an order from a friend in Manila.

With limited capital, she then sought financial assistance to cater the bigger demand for her
product. With the help of NC Palayan City, Ms. Brutas was able to avail a loan from the New
Rural Bank of San Leonardo, Inc. in August 2017 amounting to P20,000.00.

From minimal production at the start of the business, Maricel now produces 30-40 jars of
peanut butter per week and earned weekly net income of P2,000.00.

8 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

In January 2018, BC Imie encouraged Ms. Brutas to upgrade her peanut butter jar design
and sizes. New jar and new sizes are now 400ml and 275ml.
Maricel plans to produce new additional peanut-based products
such as peanut butter balls and fudge as her innovative stratergy.
She is determined to succeed with the unwavering assistance from
NC – Palayan City.

CREATION FOR PASSION AND INTENTION
By: BC Emma D. CInense

Einjhelghlen Perfume Collection is owned by Glenda D. Balmelero , a native of San Casimiro,
Licab, Nueva Ecija. She graduated at Central Luzon State University with a degree of
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology in 2006. Being the eldest daughter among
the four children of Mr. Claudio Balmelero and Mrs. Estelita Della, she needs to find work
immediately to help her parents in the education expenses of her other siblings. She had
her first job with House Research Development in Cavite. Then she worked for eight years
in IES Phil in San Jose City. Someone advised her to take some units in Education to become
a teacher. Fortunately, after graduation she passed the board exam. Last 2016, she
employed in ERL National High School located at San Casimiro, Licab, Nueva Ecija.
Her parents engaged in egg production in 2002. But due to mismanagement of their
finances and growing uncollectible accounts, their business was declared bankrupt. Her
younger brother tried another business which is the charcoal stove production. They were
assisted that time by DTI in product development. Through promotion online, Bountry
Fresh, one of the biggest companies known as supplier of chicken, communicated with

9 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

them and purchased hundreds of charcoal stove. After 4 years of existence, her brother
decided to work and cease the operation of business.

Last 2017, the ERL National High School, through Glenda Balmelero, requested DTI to
conduct seminar that will enhance the knowledge and awareness of their students as well

as the faculties in entrepreneurship and
involvement in actual skills training that will
make it as start of their own business in the
future. On November 26, 2017, through NC
Talavera, the training/seminar on
Entrepreneurship Awareness cum Skills
Training on Perfume and Artisan Soap Making
were conducted.

As perfume lover and having attended the
training organized by NC Talavera, she
started looking for suppliers of materials
and packaging for the planned perfume
business. She was privileged to attend the
free training from Chemworld Fragrance
Factory on November 30, 2017 in Tarlac
through online browsing.

Right after the training, she started producing her own scents and registered the business
with the DTI through NC Talavera. It was then that the business was provided several
assistances by NC Talavera and eventually at NC Quezon upon its establishment in 2018.
Product development like packaging and labeling were given as assistance to her company,
thus, attract more customers and increase in sales.

Through NC Quezon’s assistance, her products were displayed for sale at the Pasalubong
section of the NC.

The owner is thankful to the DTI through its
NCs for giving her the opportunity to
participate in the livelihood programs and be
able to establish her own business. She hopes
to succeed in her business with the constant
guidance of the NC.

10 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

MALUTONG, MALASA, MALAMAN… MALAMANG INANTALA SIBUT YAN!
By: BC Maryjane A. Mercado

Reynaldo Lagmay Gatuz and his wife, Elizabeth, venture on the Sibut Chicharon in 2003. Being able
to reach only 4th year College leading to the Electrical and Computer Engineering at FEATI
University, he continued to find success in his business endeavor. He is also blessed with a
wonderful daughter who wished to earn his dream Bachelor’s Degree in ECE at University of Baguio.

Sometime in high school, he finds it difficult to buy his cravings like chicharon because it was too
expensive. Then on, he set his mind into putting up his own chicharon business someday.

His sister in Navotas, Alice Reymundo, operates her business by selling
frozen foods and encouraged him to put his own business. Reynaldo tried his
luck on retailing frozen foods business like bacon, chicken nuggets, chicken
fillet and hotdogs. He also engaged in selling ‘ihaw-ihaw’ foods in front of their
house. One day, his sister accompanied him to one of their supplier and when
he saw the pig skin, something ‘popped-up’ into his mind – pursue his dream
business of chicharon making. He did some research on inantala making. It took
him six months to perfect the inantala chicharon.

Through word of mouth from his relatives, friends and neighborhood, the business became known
to public. Now, the business also offers crispy pata, beef shanghai rolls, pork tender strips and fries.
He secured his Business Name from the DTI Negosyo Center – San Jose City and other legal
documents such as Mayor’s permit and BIR registration. He was invited to display his products at
Pasalubong Center in San Jose City. Reynaldo was very thankful to DTI through Negosyo Center
because his business greatly helped their everyday living and in sending his child to school.

To capacitate Mr. Gatuz, NC San Jose City provided several assistance like attendance to trainings
and seminars, participate to local trade fairs and product development on packaging and labelling
for promotion and increase of sales.

Reynaldo planned to renovate and expand his business by
putting-up his own restaurant with Pasalubong Center. He
is now confident, inspired and motivated to achieve his
business expansion goal. The DTI NC San Jose City is proud
to be an instrument in the delivery of success to the SME
it has served, especially to the hardworking and
determined client like Mr. Gatuz, who conquered doubts
and frustrations that leads to victory.

11 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

ALONA’S FOOD PRODUCTS: SARAP NA TUMATATAK
By: BC Rachelle E. Badiola

Being an undergraduate never stopped
Alona Pascual Mendoza from achieving her
dream business.

Alona never thought that her dream of
having her own business would come true.
When she got married, she had no job and
no income. Then she decided to seek job in
Manila.

She conducted some research on chocolate
making and started selling in 2013. Until one day, she realized that the business is not
enough to support their living, she bought a cook book and while scanning, something
caught her eyes, the cassava making. Since then, she studied and perfected the product by
adding other flavor to the ingredients to make her cassava cake unique. With strong
determination to grow her business, she started selling cassava cake on the street, houses,
schools, city hall and public market. She made her product known within the locality. All
her sacrifices paid off.

In mid-2013, she added Pichi-Pichi to her product, thus, made it a hit just like her cassava
cake. Alona became popular and received plenty of order all over the San Jose City.

In February 2016, a friend from LGU advised her to
display her product at the Pasalubong Center in San
Jose City. She immediately inquired from the City
Tourism Officer, Mr. Darmo Escuadro, the
requirements needed in order to display her
products.

As part of the requirement, she registered her
business at the DTI Negosyo Center – San Jose City
on September 08, 2016 including all other legal documents such as Mayor’s permit and BIR
registration.

12 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

Through the invitation of the NC, Alona was able to participate to different seminars such
as ‘How to start a business’, Selling Technique and Product Development. Alona said DTI
helped her developed her tagline “Sarap na tumatatak”. Through the NC, she became more
inspired and motivated to work hard and able to pursue her dream of having a successful
business. She also started online selling through Facebook Page and generated increase
orders. She hangs signage in front of her house to increase product promotion strategy.

In 2018, her niece supported her to put up the store through start-up capital. From humble
beginnings, she now reaps success with her determination, passion and hard work.

Alona’s is happily married and blessed with one child. She currently resides at Curamen St.
Del Pilar Ext., San Jose City Nueva Ecija.

Her products now include Halo-Halo, Leche Plan, Lumpiang Sariwa, Lumpiang Gulay na
Prito, Kunchinta, Puto, Baked Macaroni, Potato Salad, Bilo-Bilo, Biko, Suman sa Lihiya,
Palitaw and her best sellers, Cassava Cake at Pichi-Pichi.

HAILEY’S DELICACIES: LIBANGAN NA KUMIKITA
By: BC Mae G. Jacob

It was just a dream that Ms. Bernadette G. Marin never thought would come to reality. She
was a full-time wife and mother to three children. Staying home allowed her to do baking.

In 2017, Bernadette completed the Bread and
Pastry Training from TESDA which was organized
by PESO Bongabon.

It was her determination and passion to bring
about the ‘best tasting banana cake in town’ as

what her family and clients describe.

The DTI NC Bongabon assisted her needs in securing business regulatory requirements:
from Business Name registration to product development like packaging and labelling and
other promotional needs. According to Bernadette, the product development assistance

13 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

provided to her, deed a lot of good to her products, making it deliciously attractive and
competitive in the market. Thus, she gained more confidence to market her products.

In 2019, she just makes products like banana
cakes, carrot cakes and yema cakes on orders.
She planned to put up store as her next goal.

She said, “Self-accomplishment ito sa akin dahil
bukod sa matagal ko na itong gustong gawin,
ito ay isang libangang kumikita” .

BOSS PROY’S MUSHROOM AND DELICACIES: SERVING TO DELIGHT
By: BC Ronavel DP. Aquino

Froilan Reyes, a former OFW, who wished to find his luck abroad just like the other OFWs,
worked for four years in Riyadh under Al Hindi Company as Sales Head for cosmetic
products. He decided to go back to the Philippines and become Sales Consultant at Ford
Makati for three years. After sometime, he decided to resign and establish his own business.
It so happens that his late grandfather run his mushroom business. He then got an idea and
thought of venturing into mushroom processing.
As a new beginning, on July 27, 2017, he secured his business name registration from the
DTI Negosyo Center. He also applied regulatory permits. The business is situated at Purok
1, Sumacab Sur, Cabanatuan City. With the initial capital of
P30,000.00, he started mushroom processing, packed and labeled
them as crispy mushroom with variety of flavor like original, salted
egg, barbeque, sour cream, spicy and cheese.
According to him, his daily processing of 200 packs of 100 grams per
pack needed 23 kilogram of oyster mushroom. He sold his crispy
mushroom for only P100.00 for retailers and gives discount for bulk

14 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

orders. His business expands from Cabanatuan to Pangasinan and Dingalan.
Through the DTI NC, he was able to attend Seminar on Packaging and Labelling in the
Science City on December 1, 2017. It was then that his new logo and product label was
developed and used on all his product. The DTI NC - SM City promotes his product by
posting it on the NC Facebook page. He joined the Food Exhibit at Waltermart Cabanatuan
on April 6-9, 2018.

Aside from mushroom chips, Mr. Reyes, is currently working
on mushroom chili garlic sauce that everyone would love to
buy with very affordable price.
Through DTI NCs interventions, there was significant increase
on his sales.
He also joined the Taas Noo, Novo Ecijano Trade Fair at SM
City Cabanatuan from August 27 to September 2, 2018 and
was able to generate cash sales of P61,010.00. The fair was
organized by the DTI-Nueva Ecija.

Sweet Art by Trisha
By: BC Kanary Luth P. Velasquez

At the young age of 17, Patrisha Anne Clemente Bautista (Trisha) was
able to start baking. She was a Food Technology student at the
University of the Philippines in Los Baños but after two semesters, she
transferred to the University of the Philippines Open University and
took Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Studies because she realized that
laboratory life is not for her and she wants to pursue a career related
in arts instead.
Since UPOU offers distance education (online learning) she stays at home most of the time.
To overcome boredom, her parents bought her baking tools knowing that she has a sweet
tooth and in baking, she found her passion.

15 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

At first, she only makes simple treats such as cupcakes, brownies and
cookies. Then on her younger brother’s 14th birthday, she tried to
make a one piece ‘straw hat Luffy’ themed fondant cake as a present.
After uploading the photos of her brother’s cake to social media,
some of her friends became interested and started asking if she could
sell her creations. At first, she refused to take orders because she is
still not confident with her skill but because of the support of her
family and friends, she then decided to put her sweet art at the

market.

For quite some time, her business was just home-based but now she had already
established shop located at Wycoco St. Natividad North, Cabiao, Nueva Ecija. She believes
that innovation is a good marketing tool, so from time to time, she attends workshops and
seminars to gain new techniques.

She was invited by DTI NC Cabiao to attend a Seminar on Packaging and Labeling. Since
then on, she was able to gain more ideas in creating new more cakes.

Aside from regular fondant cakes, she now offers hand-painted cakes, mirror-glazed cakes
and Korean buttercream cakes.

She also got a chance to deliver cakes for celebrities like Jai Agpangan, Alexa Ilacad, Regine
Tolentino and Star Magic Circle batch 2018.

Trisha juggles school and business. It may not be an easy journey for
her because she has to choose which to prioritize between studying
and business activity, but since she is happy, all sacrifices are worth it.

And now being registered with DTI and enjoying various assistance
from the agency, she hopes for success.

16 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

A Clean Start
By: BC Ronavel DP. Aquino

It all started with the initiative of Barangay Captain
Ernesto Dandan of San Josef Sur, Cabanatuan City,
when the DTI was asked to promote its programs and
services. A group of women of the Barangay
enthusiastically requested a livelihood training.
Through the effort of Barangays officials, the interest
in livelihood training was conveyed to the DTI. The
latter, facilitated the conduct of simple skills training
of powder detergent, fabric conditioner and dishwashing liquid making on November 2017.

The training was held at the Barangay Hall of San Josef Sur, Cabanatuan City
last and participated by more than 20 members of the Kababaihan Tanglaw
ng San Josefians. They were very enthusiastic and willing to learn the process
of making the expected products. The barangay officials were very
supportive of the activity and committed to promote the products
thereafter.
In 2018, confident of the learning gained during the training, the association
started purchasing materials to produce powder detergent, fabric conditioner and dishwashing
liquid. The group then started selling the products in nearby barangays.
NC – Cabanatuan City continued supporting the group in terms of product development.
After some product critiquing, new labels were developed and provided to the group. They were
also invited by the NC to join some local fairs for wider market opportunities.

The association is grateful to the DTI through NC SM City for all the support to the members. From
the training attended and production thereafter, the members are now generating additional
income, a fulfilling experience especially for housewives.

17 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

FOOD BROTHERS
By: BC Lester Rabanal
Don Bong’s Food Products Manufacturing is owned by Salvador “Don” Gayola Jr. and Roland
“Bong” Celestial. They were elementary classmates, both solo parent and with two children.
Don and Bong are not brothers by blood, but they treat each other more than brothers and
best friends. They share common dreams that is why DB Delicacies was born.
They started selling Royal Bibingka (as their popular product) in the distant town of Gloria,
Oriental Mindoro in May 2018 but a typhoon wiped-out their business so they decided to
move to Nampicuan. From P 650.00 starting investment, they started cooking Bibingka and
offered to their neighbors. Gradually, their product was recognized in Nampicuan.
The business currently operates in Northwest Poblacion of Nampicuan, Nueva Ecija. The
owners believe in saying, “Kapag may Hirap, May Ginhawa” and make this as their
motivation to work hard and move forward. At present, the Don Bong’s array of products
include Royal Bibingka, Cassava Cake, Fudgy Brownies, Pudding Delight, Baked Macaroni,
Cassava Cookies, Cassava Puto Seko, Fried Chicken with Cassava and coconut Milk and
Camote candy “Molido”.
With the assistance from DTI Negosyo Center Nampicuan, DB’s Delicacies product
packaging and labeling were improved resulting to higher sales. DTI NC also extend
assistance in the marketing of their products through product display and encouraging them
to join trade fair in Nampicuan as exhibitors during the 4th Moringa Festival from September
14-16, 2018. They were also endorsed to Alalay sa Kaunlaran, Inc. for financial assistance
for their business expansion.

18 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

They are grateful to DTI NC Nampicuan for all the assistance provided and for the continued
guidance through provision of consultancy services. The partners have already bought
baking pans, gas range stove and second-hand 12-tray capacity oven and optimist to reach
wider market span like the nearby towns to promote and sell their delicacies.

EMPLOYEE TURNED DAIRY ENTREPRENEUR
By: BC Rachelle E. Badiola

The owner of the business, Daisy Flores, is 33 years old and married to Jovith Flores and
blessed with one child named Enrico, with which the business was named after.
Both the couple had worked at the Philippine Carabao Center as processor and with his
husband as Food Technologist. They dreamt in setting up a business as another source of
income aside from employment. So they ventured in rice-cake ‘puto’ making and other
baked products as well as repacking of ‘pasalubong’ products like corn, peanut and beans
before selling to different stores.
Earlier in 2018, as experienced processor from PCC, Mrs Flores made Choco milk in a bottle
using Carabao’s milk. Fortunately, become a hit among neighbors young and mothers alike.
After sometime, in August, they registered their new business at DTI Negosyo Center Lupao.
They added flavors into the ready-to-drink milk products with four seasons and pineapple.

19 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

DTI NC Lupao, through Business Counsellor Rachelle E. Badiola, assisted business profiling
of Enrico’s and product development like packaging and labeling and generated more sales.

DTI NC Lupao also encouraged the couple to have their
products displayed at the OTOP Pasalubong Center in
San Jose City in coordination with the Tourism Office of
the LGU.

COLD TREATS
By: BC Ronavel DP. Aquino
Mary Ann Esguerra was once a Cashier at SM Makati in 2001. After two years, she decided to resign
and tried her luck with CI Edward Cargo Handlers as Secretary in 2003. She married a former military
and decided to live in Mindanao where she learned ‘ice cream’ making. In 2007, they decided to put
up an ice cream business with initial capital of P100,000.00. The income they get from their business
is sufficient to support the needs of their family. Both of them finally decided to permanently reside
in Cabanatuan City, since Mrs. Esguerra’s sister gave her a house. Their six-years’ experience in ice
cream business continued to flourished here at Barangay Dicarma.
Mrs. Esguerra is involved in the “Inang Kusinera ng Dambana” organization, which is an Extension
Program of CMBT-NEUST. The organization helps women to uplift their lives by providing livelihood
training.

20 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

She registered her ice cream business with the DTI Negosyo
Center SM City on July 16, 2018.

Her products array Popsicle stick and ice cream with
different fruity flavors such as cheese mani, chocolate and
cheese kasoy macapuno. She has 11 vendors, of which, five
are regular while the rest are part time. The products are
sold on a consignment basis. She also accepts made to
order.

Mrs. Esguerra attended the Seminars on How to Start a Small Business and Financial Management
which were organized by DTI NC SM City Cabanatuan. Mrs. Esguerra affirmed that she gained
substantial knowledge through the seminars and vital in the business.

In addition, DTI NC SM City assisted in her business logo design
as well as product labels to enhance product packaging for an
increase in sale. She was also endorsed to Small Business
Corporation under the P3 Program for financial assistance for
business expansion.

She acknowledges the assistance provided to her by NC SM City
and is grateful for the continued monitoring.

WEAVING THE FUTURE OF IP’S
By: BC Imiemalen H. Sevillaga

Indigenous People of Palayan City
particularly residing in Barangays of Doña
Josefa and Langka mainly rely on farming
as their means of daily living. With the
continuous partnership of the local
government unit of Palayan City and the
Department of Trade and Industry through
the Negosyo Center Palayan City, IPs cogon
business potential was discovered.
Business Counselor Imiemalen Sevillaga assessed the capacity and capability of the IPs since there

21 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

are abundant supply of cogon grass. Converting
agricultural waste to an income generating project, instead
of just burning the cogon grass, they were utilized to create
new useful products.

To uplift the livelihood skills, especially on basket weaving
of Indigenous Peoples of Barangay Langka and Doña Josefa,
the DTI NC Palayan City, as part of its services under
business information and advocacy, conducted a SME
Roving Academy (SMERA): Skills Training on Basket
Weaving on June 19, 2018 at Sitio Sandelain, Langka,
Palayan City which was participated in by IPs.

During the one-day training, the trainer commended the participants for their determination and
eagerness to learn and according to her, they can
catch easily both in theoretical method and hands-
on training.

In less than a month, July 09, 2018, Joseph Tolosa,
representative of the IPs, visited DTI NC Palayan City
to show their finished cogon baskets. Shortly after,
DTI NC Palayan City linked it to the LGU of Palayan
City with which an initial of 150 baskets were made
to order and used as packaging for token of visitors
of the City.

The DTI NC Palayan City assisted the IPs for product promotion and increase in sales. It is hoped that
someday, the group will be able to participate in other marketing activities to sustain operation as
a source of livelihood.

SPREADING GOOD TASTE
By: BC Mae G. Jacob

Mrs. Isabelita A. Soriano’s inspiring words like ‘Peanut
butter making is a good business which requires small
capital. It’s a blessing for me to have a business like this.
Even though there are so many competitors making
delicious spread, I am confident about my products. It is the
result of my passion and inspiration from my siblings’.

22 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

The owner of Isabel’s Food Products, started its peanut butter processing in 2018 through the
influenced of her friends from TALA (Tanglaw at Lakas), the Kababaihan group in Bongabon. She
started personal selling of her products in her neighbors and close friends. After sometime, she
noticed that her peanut butter become saleable just as favorite table delicacies of the town. From
then on, she decided to process additional spread flavor like yema and chicken and include soya
milk and turmeric tea.

Being a member of TALA group, her products were
exhibited during the ‘Sibuyas Festival’ on April 2018. But
some buyers commented on her product packaging and
labelling. Timely, Mrs. Josephine Entila, LGU Bongabon
PESO, encouraged her to register her business at the DTI
Negosyo Center Bongabon. The NC Bongabon assisted her
with the product development on logo design, packaging
and labeling.

The DTI NC Bongabon invited her to attend seminars like
Entrepreneurship Awareness. Accordingly, Mrs Soriano
affirmed that her income increased from the time her new
product label was changed. She is now even more
confident to post her products online like Facebook and
display at DTI Negosyo Centers. Indeed, very thankful to
DTI for the assistance given to her.

HEALTHY DRINK ALTERNATIVE
By: BC Janyne A. Luna

Sylvia Salgado, former OFW, married and with three kids, decided to stay with the family for good
and made herself full-time mother and wife to her farming husband. When her father was
diagnosed with diabetes, she became interested with herbal products. So in 2015, when she was
invited by the Bagumbayan Multipurpose Cooperative for Skills Training on Meat, Fruits and
Vegetable Processing, she learned how to make powdered turmeric drinks. Her eagerness to learn
continued as she discovered that other plants and fruits are best added with turmeric to make it
healthier. She did some research and added extracts of available backyard plants and come up with
the 12-in-1 Turmeric Herbal Drink.

On August 2, 2017, she visited DTI Negosyo Center Llanera to register her business as she wanted
to expand her market. She uttered to Business Counselor Janyne, “Buti po meron na dito sa Llanera

23 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

na DTI. Mas malapit na po sa amin at mas makakatipid po kami” as she secured her DTI Business
Name Certificate under MagicSylvia Food Products.

Since then, Ms. Sylvia became an active
entrepreneur, attending seminars and trainings
facilitated by DTI-NC Llanera. She attended the
SMERA on Skills Training on Chili Paste Making where
she learned chili garlic paste. This was added to her
turmeric and Salabat herbal drink.

The DTI NC LLanera provided her ‘full-packed’ of
services from trainings and seminars, product
development on packaging and labeling to product
promotional display at DTI NC Llanera, DTI NC
Cabanatuan City, DTI NC Palayan City and at the Pasalubong Centers in Science City of Munoz and
San Jose City.

Ms. Salgado never ceases on developing her products, from the quality of its taste and the way it
looks. She even invested on purchasing a Cap Aluminum Foil Induction Sealing Machine to preserve
the freshness of her products. She gratefully stated, “Ang sarap po pala sa feeling ma’am na
nakakapag invest na ko ng mga kailangan ko, solely galing sa kinikita ko lang sa mga products ko.
Parang magic pero hardwork lang talaga at syempre po yung tulong nyo.”

The DTI NC Llanera continuously supported Mrs. Salgado through monitoring and other assistance
that on May 7, 2018, she joined the first ever trade fair in the town fiesta of Llanera, the Dulansangan
2018 Trade Fair.

RECYCLE, RE-IMAGINE, RE-CREATE
By: BC Janyne A. Luna

A former Ticketing Officer of an airline company in the
Middle East, Mr. Jayson Natividad. Due to personal
reasons, he decided to come home to Mindanao. He used
his savings abroad as initial capital for his corn husk
handicrafts business. Eventually, he flew to Manila to try
his luck.

24 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

For one year, he tried looking for a job that will support him financially, but he never had one. A
friend of him from Cavite gave him a job as caretaker for a house. He accepted the job and stayed
there. Since he loves planting, he came up with the idea of making pots. He used his old uniform,
tissues, sand and cement to make his first project.

He tried and tried until he got the perfect mixture that he wanted. His work was funded by the son
of his boss. It was all doing good. He has markets. He gets paid for the works he does. Until his boss
decided to pay him less than what they have discussed when the business was just starting. He felt
bad and decided that he will just continue what he has started in his father’s hometown, Llanera,
Nueva Ecija.

He taught his cousins the process of making the pots. They gathered used
clothes from their neighborhood. They paid them hundred pesos or pots
in exchange for the clothes. It was tough for him re-starting, but he never
gave up. He, together with his family, made different designs. He
presented his sample products with PESO Llanera and DTI Negosyo Center
Llanera and he was invited to attend as exhibitor in the Trabaho, Negosyo,
Kabuhayan Trade Fair on May 7 and 8, 2018 at the Pag-Asa Gym, Llanera,
Nueva Ecija. He encountered clients who were curious about his products.
At the end of the 2-day fair, he generated P1,525 cash sales and booked

sales of P4,710.

“Sobrang laking impact po ma’am sa amin ng trade fair. Kahit hindi ganun kalaki yung naging sales,
na-expose po yung products naming at nakakilala po kami ng buyers at potential distributor from
Baler” said Mr. Natividad after asking him about his thoughts and experience from the trade fair.

Aside from walk-in clients, he now has several clients he met from the trade fair. And since he was
into corn husk handicrafts before, he has an on-going tie up with Kababaihan Kaagapay ng Iisan
Bayan (KAKAIBA) of Cuyapo since he wanted to incorporate corn husk with his designs.

Recycle, Re-Imagine, Recreate. Mr. Natividad aims to lessen waste by recycling; re-imagining what
he could do with the waste; and re-creating the waste into masterpiece.

DTI, through its Negosyo Center Llanera, assisted the Mr. Natividad in the registration of his business
and even invited him to attend various trainings and seminars to enhance his skills and improve
business operation. Seminars attended were on How to Start a Small Business Seminar and Costing
and Pricing.

In 2018, he was enrolled to DTI’s One Town One Product (OTOP) Next Generation (NG) and was
assisted on product development. He was provided with new product designs which he later
exhibited during local fairs he participated such as the Taas Noo Novo Ecija Fair in Nueva Ecija and
the Likha ng Central Luzon of the DTI-3 in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

25 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

From then on, he started participating to more local
fairs and gained more customers.

Mr. Natividad continuously innovates his product
designs through the DTI NC LLanera.

From the time NC – Llanera assisted Mr. Natividad,
lots of great things have been happening. He is now
reaping success with hard work and passion for his
crafts.

BUKO JUICE PA MORE
By: BC Elizabeth M. Cruz

On August 08, 2018, after less than a year of selling, Ms. Rosemarie Ermita Gabriel from
Tikiw San Antonio, Nueva Ecija visited the DTI Negosyo Center San Antonio to register her
business, Pure Buko Juice. She brought with her sample
product for critiquing. According to her, “Pure Buko Juice” is
a good source of several nutrients because it is low in fat and
calories but rich in minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients”.
After registering her business, she asked for assistance in
developing the logo for her business and label for her
product. On August 29, 2018, DTI NC San Antonio handed her
new logo and label. She was very happy and thankful as she
said, “Salamat po sa paggawa ng logo, natuwa po ang asawa
ko ang ganda daw po pwede na daw po siya magresign.”

The DTI NC San Antonio also helped her create the
Facebook Page to promote her product online and
reach wider market. True enough, she got many
orders through the FB page. The Paulino J. Garcia
Memorial Research and Medical Center Hospital in
Cabanatuan City placed order of 100 bottles (350 ml)
daily. Day by day, she gains new customers. Her sales
increased from the time her FB page and new label

were created.

26 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

In addition, she was assisted in the lay-outing of her
tarpaulin to create awareness.

Continuous monitoring and other assistance are
being extended to the business.

She is grateful to NC – San Antonio for the success
she is reaping now. Truly, she said, this is
‘Serbisyong Higit pa sa Inaasahan’.

FOOD DELIGHTS
By: BC Ana Angeilica E. Valdez

Goldeliz Food Products is owned by Mrs. Eliza
Valleno Dado, 44 years old, with two children
and residing at Brgy Nagmisahan, Cuyapo
Nueva Ecija

Mrs. Valleno started selling Pulvoron in 2005 in
nearby schools and her neighbors with a
starting capital of P200.00. After a year, she
started making other food products like
pastillas and roasted peanut. She became the
regular supplier of tokens for every event of the Cuyapo LGU until he met Tourism Office
Danlou Calugay who helped her introduce her products to the nearby municipalities of
Cuyapo.

She also attended the product critiquing
organized by the DTI – Nueva Ecija on May 15,
2018 held at Cuyapo Municipal Hall. After that
event, she registered her business with the DTI
and later sought assistance to improve her
product label and packaging. When the DTI NC
Cuyapo was launched in June 2018, she, along
with other MSMEs from Cuyapo, went to the
NC and were assisted on their product
development needs.

27 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

Through DTI NC – Cuyapo, she was invited to
attend various trainings such as Costing and
Pricing and Kulinarya Skills and participated in
trade fairs such as the Taas Noo Novo Ecijano,
Cuyapo Farmer’s Forum cum Trade Fair and 5th
Cornhusk Festival Trade Fair.

Ms. Dado is very thankful for what the DTI NC
Cuyapo have done to her and her business. She
said that she will forever be grateful for their assistance and continued support to small
business. She believes that “kapag may sipag at tiyaga, may pagpapala”

WINES THAT MATTER
By: BC Maryjane A. Mercado

The owner of the business is Thomas Henke, born and
raised from Germany. He was born on November
11,1970. At the age of 48 Mr. Henke already have six
children to his Filipina wife Dr. Marissa Bunao and
decided to stay for good in the Philippines.

Mr. Thomas Henke finished trade school in Germany and
followed by a 3-year apprenticeship in carpentry. His
father brews and distills beer in Germany as a hobby. This is the reason why Mr. Henke sets
his interest in wines. At first, it is only a hobby, but as time goes by, eagerness drives him
to put it as a business.

Mr. Henke started to research about distilling wine. Because of his hobby, he decided to put
up a business. On March 2, 2016 Mr. Henke registered his business with the DTI under the
name of Thomas Home Made Wine and Spirits. Through DTI, Mr. Henke was able to join

28 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

different activities like Seminar on How to start a Small
Business and product development focusing on packaging and
labeling.

Mr. Henke labeled his wine under the brand name “Pilyong
Nuang”. His wines have different flavors like Cinamon, Coffee,
Sour Cherry and Vodka.

With the help of the DTI, Mr. Henke had the opportunity to display his products at
Pasalubong Center, OTOP at San Jose City. He was also able to participate in different trade
fairs like the ‘Pagibang Damara’ during San Jose City Fiesta in April 2018 where he made
sale of almost P16,000; City Day Trade fair in August 2018 made sales of P 4,740.00; Walter
Mart San Jose City grand opening in July 2018 at San Jose with sales of P14,800; and many
more.

Mr. Henke was so grateful. He said that his participation to various trade fairs enabled him
to generate the needed sales. His participation in the Taas Noo Novo Ecijano Fair in 2018
generated sales of P46,380.00.

He is still looking forward to more trade fair. He now plans to secure his FDA-LTO to be able
to access wider markets.

JAMMIN’ WITH CACAO
By: BC Ronavel DP. Aquino

Mrs. Maribel Manzano worked as Domestic Helper
in Hong Kong for four years to support the needs of
her family until she decided to go back to the
Philippines in 2002. She invested her savings in a
small photocopy business. The income she got from
this was enough to support the daily needs of her
family but in 2004, the business stopped operation
due to financial problem. When her husband retired
from the Philippine Army, he bought a farm and planted coconut and cacao in Dingalan, Aurora
where his family resides. Her auntie is engaged in cacao processing. She found interest in producing
cacao products such as Jam.

29 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

Mrs. Manzano is involved in the organization “Inang Kusinera ng Dambana,” a group assisted by the
College of Management and Business Technology of the Nueva Ecija University of Science and
Technology under its Extension Program. The organization helps women to uplift their lives by
providing livelihood training and eventually engaging into business.

Every Sunday, Mrs. Manzano sells her Cacao Jam outside the Dambana Church. She would sell an
average of six bottles of cacao jam which generate sales of P750.00.

NEUST started coordinating with the DTI on how to assist the MSMEs of the University. After initial
meeting with some MSMEs also selling outside the Dambana Church, Mrs. Manzano’s business was
finally registered with the Department of Trade and Industry through the assistance of DTI NC SM
City Cabanatuan on June 7, 2018. She was also granted the Certificate of Authority having qualified
into the Barangay Micro Business Enterprise law. The
business was likewise referred to the New Rural Bank of
San Leonardo for financial linkage for business
expansion.

She started the business with initial capital of
P30,000.00. It is located in Caalibangbangan, Cabanatuan
City. Aside from Cacao Jam, Mrs. Manzano also produces
Tablea de Cacao chocolates. She produces 21 bottles of
Jam and 180 pieces of Tablea de cacao chocolates every week.

Mrs. Manzano was invited to attend various Seminars such as How to Start a Small Business, Costing
and Pricing and Simple Bookkeeping which were organized by the DTI NC SM City Cabanatuan. These
seminars greatly helped her enhance her knowledge and skills that contributed to better operation
of her business.

Other assistance provided by the DTI NC Cabanatuan City was on product development on business
logo and label design for Cacao Jam, creating a dedicated Facebook page as a marketing strategy to
sell online.

She was invited to participate to various trade fairs and meet potential buyer which generated
increase sales. She also did radio guesting over DWJJ in the segment of “Hataw Cabanatuan” where
her Cacao Jam was featured.

According to Mrs. Manzano, she was able to generate significant increase on her sales since the
intervention was made by the DTI NC SM City Cabanatuan. Mrs. Manzano assures that her products
are clean and safe and possesses good quality.

30 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

SWEET ALTERNATIVES
By: BC Catherine Santos

Pantawid Sweet Delicacies is owned by Mrs. Paz S. Rinion, 46 years old residing at Brgy. Licaong,
Science City of Muñoz. Being identified as beneficiaries of 4Ps, her husband, a farmer, was included
under the Sustainable Livelihood Project (SLP) of the DSWD. SLP is a convergence strategy to
address poverty reduction and provides the appropriate income-generating opportunities for the
poor families through Microenterprise Development or Employment Facilitation to help improve
their level of economic sufficiency.

Mrs. Rinion was elected as president of the
Licaong SLP Group in 2015. As alternative source
of income, they make products as kalabasa leche
plan, peanut butter, pastillas and yema relying on
the availability of raw materials in the area. To be
able to enhance her capability necessary to
establish and manage their sustainable livelihood
program, she participated on the Skills Training on
Food Processing held at Central Luzon State
University (CLSU) on February 13-14, 2017.

She found out that DTI Negosyo Center-Science City of Munoz was established on October 9, 2017.
It was then that she decided to register her business and sought assistance on how to improve her
skills and products. Business Counselor Catherine Santos, together with DSWD staff, visited her
production site on October 27, 2017. Subsequently, she requested from the DTI training for the
group and was approved. Some 25 members participated in the Entrepreneurship Seminar
conducted on November 27 and another seminar on Packaging and Labelling on December 1, 2017,
both trainings organized by DTI NC – Science City of Muñoz. Mrs. Rinion was given the chance to
have one-on-one product consultation with Ms. Leidy Sicat of DOST and final labels of her products
were developed. Provision of consultancy services by DTI NC-SCM continued seeing her passion to
learn and improve business operation.

In 2018, Pantawid Sweet Delicacies was nominated to
the Sulong Kabuhayan ng SLP for Nueva Ecija Award
because of Mrs. Rinion’s dedication together with her
group. Products are getting sold out because of good
quality. Through the help of DTI NC SCM, improvement
in business operations has been noted. Members of the
SLP group are very thankful for the good opportunities.

31 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

THERE IS HOPE IN TURMERIC
By: BC Francis Peter B. Marquez

Mr. Rodello Martin Hipolito is a garbage collector while his wife Monaliza Hipolito is a public worker
and with four children. Their salary is not enough to sustain the growing needs of their children so
they decided to find an extra income. They learned how to make turmeric tea from
PANGKABUHAYAN Project of General Tinio. Before, they only sell their product to their friends but
now are recognized throughout barangay.
They learned that DTI Negosyo Center General Tinio was launched, so
they inquired of its program and services. They decided to register their
business with Kambal Homemade Turmeric Tea on June 26, 2018 with an
initial capital of P 3,000.00. The business is situated at Libis ng Nayon,
Poblacion Central, General Tinio (Papaya), Nueva Ecija.
According to our Entrepreneur, the production of 7 in 1 turmeric tea
composed of Luyang Dilaw and herbal plants like Lemon grass, Oregano,
Malungay, Pandan, Guyabano, Ashitaba. The processing output of 15
bottles with 480 grams per bottle needs 20kg of Luyang DIlaw and 5kg of
other herbal plants goes with the selling price of P200.00 for retailer and
offers special discount for bulk orders.
The DTI NC General Tinio provided labels for the turmeric tea and created their Facebook page which
help them market their products online and to reach other communities.

According to Mr. & Mrs. Hipolito, they gained a lot of information for the development of their
business and able to generate a significant increase in sales and orders ever since the DTI NC General
Tinio assisted them.

Mr. and Mrs. Hipolito assure that their products are
healthy because of the health benefits of turmeric
and other herbal plants. They added also that their
product maintained the good quality that will
surely satisfy the food tastes of their customers.
They look forward to registration with FDA.

32 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

PASTOR TURNED MUSHROOM LOVER AND GROWER
By: BC Maryjane A. Mercado

Through the influence of peers, Herson Olivar Flores decided to grow his own mushroom orchard.
Herson’s mentor, Raphy gave 70 samples and fruiting bags and introduced the preparation of
substrate for mushroom cultivation.

Herson’s initial attempt on making spawn was a failure but through continuous research, as some
trial and error, and consultations from experts, the spawn tissue culture production from potato
syrup finally prospered and succeeded. This gave birth to the success of Nayel’s Mushroom
Production and Processing.

Nayel’s Mushroom Production and Processing was registered at the DTI on January 25, 2018 by
Herson Olivar Flores, pastor from Miracle Revival Church. He is married to Carmencita M. Flores,
Grade 5 Teacher at Abar 1st Elementary School, Sunflower Street, Villaramos, Abar 1st, San Jose City
Nueva Ecija.

Flores family was originally from Baler, Aurora. He worked there
as farmer, carpenter, sidecar builder and raiser of quail eggs farm
for almost 9 years. Due to some personal reasons, they move to
San Jose City in 2013. With his family’s small savings and some
soft loans from government bank, they bought 500sqm lot in
Abar 1st. Eventually, he increased the capacity of his mushroom
production and constructed a small mushroom house equipped
with simple laboratory. Mr. Flores started to grow mushrooms
and started making fruiting bags.

Being born and raised with a farming background, he decided to involve his relatives and church
youths in this income generating project as their source of livelihood.

Mr. Flores also invented the bagging machine, with capacity of 4-5
bags per minute, as he experienced challenges in manually bagging
the mushroom fruiting bags. He conducted research, study about
machine and test run as he finally succeeded and made life and
business easier.

Sometime in 2015 while he was conducting the seminar on
mushroom production at his farmhouse, Nholie Agire from Laguna
documented all the processing details and uploaded pictures and
videos on the social media. Gaining attention from the public,
eight provinces from Bulacan, Pangasinan, Laguna, Capiz, Cavite,

33 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

Nueva Vizcaya, Ifugao, Bacolod and even government agencies like Department of Agriculture
showed interest and ordered the bagging machine from him.
Mr. Flores succeeded both mushroom farm rehab and mushroom growing business despite life’s
challenges. He scouts for opportunities and earned confidence from seeing mushroom potentials
and machine fabrication.

The DTI NE San Jose City assisted Mr. Flores through
training and product development on packaging and
labelling for mushroom chicharon. He also served as
a resource speaker in this particular field as a means
of promoting his product.
Mr. Flores admitted that without the DTI’s
intervention, his business will not grow and be
recognized and for that he is forever grateful and
looks forward to more assistance from the DTI through its Negosyo Center – San Jose City.

THERE IS WEALTH IN COCO, PEANUT AND TURMERIC
By: BC Janikha Ann F. Linsangan

Similar to many Overseas Filipino Workers who tried their luck abroad, Natividad Mercado
decided to return to the Philippines and started a small business in her hometown in Gapan
City. Pocketed with a small capital of Php 5,000.00, Natividad managed to nurture her
business through series of training and workshops she attended.

On May 2018, AVID-OSTRY Enterprise was registered through
DTI Negosyo Center - Gapan City. On the same day, she inquired
assistance on packaging and labelling as well as seminars and
training to improve her skills in running her business. She was
gladly accommodated by the Business Counsellor assigned at NC
Gapan City.

Later that year, Natividad decided to venture another product
line which is turmeric tea. making in order to convert her luyang

34 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

dilaw plants into an income. She believed that
turmeric products are beneficial to the health.

On June 22, 2018 she attended the Seminar on How
to Start a Small Business along with her neighbors to
encourage them to engage in business too.

Through the DTI NC Gapan City, her packaging and
labeling have improved and marketing of her products
to increase sale. She is thankful for all the assistance provided and optimist that she can
achieve her dream of helping others.

DELIGHTING EVERYONE WITH CRISPY CHIPS
By: BC Kate Chandlen B. Conde

Rommel is a 42-year-old rice farmer from
Barangay Edy, Nampicuan, the heart of
Riceland country. He is married and with four
children, of which, the eldest had already
graduated. He engaged in the cottage industry
of producing BANANA CHIPS in 2018 to raise his
family.
The DTI NC Nampicuan provided him full-pack of assistance like registration of business
name, training, seminars and market access.
The initial production was mostly a hit-and-miss procedure but as in most cottage
industries, Rommel got the feel of the work and the business started moving smoothly,
proving that patience and persistence win in the end.
Rommel makes the products in their home with the help of his children. Banana was bought
at the nearby public market or at other sources.
Production, marketing and selling, after the trial and error stage, was finally established and
the profits pour in. Rommel’s family was able to buy a tricycle for their deliveries and able

35 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

support the household daily living generated from sales income. Also, Rommel opened his
savings account and started to pay off his debts from his initial capital.

Presently, the R&V Delights are now selling in Solsona Paoay and Laoag City in Ilocos Norte,
Dau, Pampanga, Calasiao, Pangasinan as well as Cuyapo, Guimba and Zaragoza in Nueva
Ecija, Anao and Paniqui Tarlac. Also, through Nampicuan Pasalubong Center, R&V opened
an outlet in Makati, Metro Manila.

Today, Rommel Pacol
has mastered the small-
scale production and
ventures on new chips
and flavor like Taro and
Camote Chips in Cheese
and BBQ and peanut.

BEST EMPANADA IN TOWN
By: BC Ana Angeilica E. Valdez

“Seeing opportunity in every difficulty instead of seeing difficulty in
every opportunity”. This quote has been a source of motivation and
inspiration for Rosy Molina Iluis of Tom- Rosy Food Products .

selling 39 years old Rosy Molina Iluis currently resides at District VII,
Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija. Her husband, Saldo Iluis, helps in preparing and
their empanada.

In 2006, they sold empanada made by her aunt. In
2008, Rosy started kneading and made her own
mixture for her empanada. She started with 1 1/2 kilos
of flour. She had her first bulk order of 1,500 pieces
ordered by the Cuyapo Municipal Hall on a certain
event. From this instance, people started looking for
her and placed their order. Soon after, she received
orders from Guimba, Nampicuan and Licab. She

36 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

regularly delivers at the Dra. Lamonera Catering of Paniqui, Tarlac, Allyssa’s Bakery, Keon
Pansitan and Catering, Casa Honorata, and many more.
On May 2018, DTI-Nueva Ecija organized product development activity on product
critiquing where Rosy attended. After that, she registered her business and availed of the
packaging and labeling designs. Through the DTI NC Cuyapo’s assistance, their family
business generates enough income, she is much happier since she can provide for her
family’s daily needs and some extra income to build their own house and resulted a big
difference in her life and family.
The DTI NC Cuyapo continuously provided assistance to SMEs like trainings and seminars to
improve business operation and capacitate the owner. Regular consultancy and monitoring
are done to ensure that the business can sustain its operation.

BUTTERRIFIC PEANUT WHIP
By: BC Janikha Ann F. Linsangan

Susan’s Food Products was registered with the
DTI on February 8, 2017. It is owned and
managed by Mrs. Susan Garcia. Her business is
located at the Mulawin Poblacion, Gen.
Mamerto Natividad and is currently serving a
relatively numerous client.

37 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

Mrs. Garcia regularly visit DTI Negosyo Center General Natividad for business
advisory. She was able to attend seminars conducted by the DTI that gave her
more knowledge in managing her business.
In November 2018, a label for her product was designed and provided
consumers or encouraged potential buyers to purchase her products.
According to her, the intervention made by the Negosyo Center was a big help
in meeting the increasing demands for her products from her growing clients
and in generating the increase in revenues which she now enjoys. She
promised to achieve consistency always in terms of product quality and to
continually improve her packaging and labels.

38 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

NEGOSYO CENTER LOCATIONS
20 NCs from
2015 – 2018
18 LGU-based
1 Mall-based
1 DTI-NE

39 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

NEGOSYO CENTER DIRECTORY – DISTRICT 1

NC ALIAGA
Munic1pal Compound, Aliaga

CP#: 09058322727

NC CUYAPO
Municipal Hall Compound

District 1, Cuyapo
CP#: 0917-542-4656

NC GUIMBA
Municipal Hall Building
Sta. Veronica, Guimba
CP#: 0945-896-9119

NC NAMPICUAN
OTOP Building, South Central

Poblacion, Nampicuan
CP#: 0906-969-0574

NC QUEZON
Municipal Hall Compound

Public Market, Quezon
CP#: 0917-115-3955

NC STO. DOMINGO
Municipal Hall Compound
Sagada, Santo Domingo,

CP#: 0917-170-7785

NC TALAVERA
BPLO, Municipal Hall Building

Maestrang Kikay, Talavera
CP#: 0925-846-5896
CP#: 0917-106-8205
Tel: 044 958 3836

NC ZARAGOZA
NC Building,

Municipal Hall Compound
Del Pilar East, Zaragoza
CP#: 0939-609-2635

40 | Nueva Ecija

NEGOSYO CENTER STORIES

Stories to tell…Stories to share…the Negosyo Center Way

NEGOSYO CENTER DIRECTORY – DISTRICT 2

NC LLANERA

Municipal Hall, Victoria, Llanera
CP#: 0948-391-9143
Tel: 044 958 0592

NC LUPAO

2/F Municipal Hall
Poblacion North, Lupao

CP#: 0915-516-3290

NC SAN JOSE CITY

OTOP Building, Cardenas Street,
FE Marcos Poblacion, San Jose City
Facebook: /NegosyoCenter.SanJoseCityLGU

CP#: 0906-911-1159
Tel: 044 951 5913

NC SCIENCE CITY OF MUNOZ

Public Market, Poblacion West,
Science City of Munoz
CP#: 0917-126-8393
CP#: 0921-944-4691

41 | Nueva Ecija