Hibla Magazine

VOLUME 1 - ISSUE NO. 1 JANUARY - DECEMBER 2019

What’s inside? Organizational Culture Initiative

Message of the “Creating a better work-life Balance”
Officer-In-Charge
Pp.1 Pp.8
Milestone
The Magazine Pp. 8
Pp. 3 Features
Pp. 11-12
Our Organization Comics:
Pp. 3
“Ang Tagumpay ni Juana”
News Brief
Pp. 4-8

1

Hello It is with great pride to launch the first issue
& of “Hibla”, the official publication of DTI-South
Cotabato. While the succeeding releases of
Welcome this magazine shall be made quarterly, this
first issue illustrates our significant achieve-
ments for the entire year of 2019. Part of last
year’s triumphs however were drawn from the
foundations generated in the previous years.

We humbly illustrate our 2019 milestones in this first issue. The activities,
undertakings and other performances were contributions of the members of
the DTI-SC Team. The associates in Business Development Division (BDD)
were responsible in undertaking Industry Cluster Enhancement programs
that were responsive to the needs of our cluster clients. The Consumer
Protection Division (CPD) ensured that the general public became empow-
ered consumers cognizant of their rights and responsibilities. The Business
Counselors of the twelve (12) Negosyo Centers in the province were very
vigorous in extending support to existing and potential MSMEs in their re-
spective areas of assignments. Our Finance and Administrative Support
Team was swift in responding to the request in the performance of the
core functions.

The month of October is a very notable time for the Province of South Co-
tabato. It is during this period wherein the Negosyo Festival is being cele-
brated in commemoration of the Charter Anniversary of the City of Koron-
adal. Our involvement in the 2019 festivity was the launching of the NE-
GOSolusyon program where various MSME interventions were undertaken.
Likewise, we conducted the first ever Regional Food Show that showcased
the banner food products of the different Provinces and Cities of the region.
Various events were likewise undertaken during the month in celebration of
the Consumer Welfare Month and the Cooperative Month. All those activi-
ties were successfully achieved through the strong support of the LGUs and
partners from the government and private sectors.

We dedicate our triumphs to our customers which are primarily the Micro,
Small and Medium Entrepreneurs. Likewise we recognize our partners and
other interested parties who have contributed to these achievements and
those who also benefited from them.

Mabuhay at maraming salamat po!

RICTONIEL T. REGINIO, CESE
Officer-In-Charge
DTI-South Cotabato

Message of the Officer-In-Charge
of DTI-South Cotabato Office

3 The Magazine

About the Cover and Title Editorial Board

Hibla is a Filipino term for fiber. Executive Editor
RICTONIEL T. REGINIO
South Cotabato is endowed with abundant resources with fair to
excellent climate. For such, abaca plant is easily grown especial- Editor-in-Chief
ly in its hinterlands. Most Tboli natives of the Municipality of BABYLON F. MAGANAKA, JR.
T’boli and Lake Sebu depend their living on abaca fiber produc-
tion. Abaca fiber is known to be one of the world’s strongest nat- Editor
ural fibers. LESLIE T. ARANILLA
SHARVEN A. DORONIO
Our very own T’nalak Cloth is made from abaca fibers. T’nalak is
the product of dreamweavers who create patterns according to Cartoonist
what “dwata” or god has shown them in their dreams. The quali- ELLIZA C. MANALO
ty of this cloth is undoubtedly best for it is made of abaca fiber.
Depicting simple and strong nature, abaca fiber represents the
strong will of DTI South Cotabato in withstanding challenges of
the complex environment while maintaining humility being its
humble natural values.

CONTRIBUTORS

Kirbie Mae Pacinabao Darlen Joy G. Galope-Morales

Elliza C. Manalo Sharven A. Doronio

Ezraelle C. Magbanua-Biaca Christian Joy P. Bansuan

Leslie T. Aranilla Claribelle B. Tahitit

Ria B. Hallarsis Waren Jay B. Nantes

Ric Rodolf C. Punzalan Momina M. Aminio

Donna Ross F. Rivera Xyline Joyce D. Dagum

Our Organization(2019)

News Brief 4

SUPER Con Engaged KNCHS Februry 15, 2019 (Kirbie Mae Pacinabao)

During the engagement, the S.U.P.E.R Consumer program and its seven distinctions were
elaborated as follows:
1. We will NOT buy substandard and uncertified products which are illegal, hazardous, dan-
gerous and unsafe. (Product Standards Law)
2. We will ONLY purchase products or services that will provide us the opportunity to know
the price, quality, and benefits. (Price Tag Law, Labelling Law, Law on Generic Medicines
and Cheaper Medicine Law)
3. We will NOT avail of promotional sales that do not guarantees compliance to regulations.
(Sales Promotion Law)
4. We will NOT have our appliances, vehicles, and electronic gadgets repaired or checked by
bogus repair shops and service centers. (Accreditation Laws)
5. We will NOT patronize illegitimate business entities. They are not sincere to us consum-
ers. (Business Registration Laws)
6. We will HELP the government penalize the profiteers, hoarders and cartel syndicates.
(Price Act)
7. We will FIGHT OUR CAUSE as consumers! (Consumer Act of the Philippines, Senior Citi-
zens Act, Magna Carta for Differently-abled Persons, Clean Air Act)

As the DTI’s official mascot SUPER Con entertained the participants of the seminar and other KNCHS students at the oval field
with an energetic dance. SUPER Con posed for pictures with the students with the end view of spreading awareness on consumer
welfare.

February 22, 2019 (Kirbie Mae Pacinabao

The following are the newly-elected officers of KOCICA for the year
The purpose of the activity was to encourage the 2019-2020, after the election, they were immediately inducted by tak-
participation of the general public towards DTI’s ing an oath:
consumer welfare advocacies. Consumer Act of
the Philippines, Products under Mandatory Cer- Position Name Sector

tification and Importance of Consumer Organiza- President Ms. Jimielyn Antipado Academe
tion was discussed. Pablo S. Lorenzo Jr. Business
Vice President Mr. Rany Haberle Media
It also included what KOCICA has done in the
past and the requirements needed for it to be Secretary
accredited by DTI Regional Office.
Treasurer Bai Hyacinth Augustus Barrios Youth
Election of the new set of officers for KOCICA
was then conducted. It was agreed by the body Auditor Melanie J. Monroid Solo Parents

that officers will be from different sectors in the Business Manager Girlie G. Gorgonio Solo Parents
community. Youth
Press Relation Officer Clarisse Mae T. Sorongon

March 15, 2019 (Elliza C. Manalo)

A day before Seslong Festival of the Municipality of Tboli, the DTI
South Cotabato Consumer Welfare Division conducted its Consumer
Advocacy Program. Students as well as walk in participants were able
to gain information related to consumer rights and responsibilities.
An open forum was later conducted to cater questions from partici-
pants.

The finale of the program was highlighted with SuperCon’s first ap-
pearance in the municipality and it gathered the attention of people in
different ages. The purpose of the program is for the people to be
more informed and protected from fraudulent practices and sub-
standard products that they are consuming.

5 News Brief

Right Staffing: Right Person for the Right Job March 29, 2019 (Ezraelle M. Biaca)

The seminar was part of the 4-day training of DTI-CARP. Ms. Ezraelle M. Biaca of NC LGU Koronadal acted as the resource person.
In explaining the module, the resource person covered the topics on: meaning of staffing, importance and benefits, and the process in-
volved in staffing. Ms. Biaca centered her discussion on the process which included: identification
of needs (workload and workforce analysis), recruitment, selection, training, and development.
Before discussing the module, she first asked the participants what is important in hiring an em-
ployee. She quoted Zig Ziglar’s saying about attitude. She emphasized that it should be among the
considerations of the entrepreneurs in selecting applicants.
The resource person also tasked the participants to accomplish workshop which will help them
identify their personality (sanguine, choleric, phlegmatic and melancholic). She informed that this
will help them identify their strengths and weaknesses and in dividing their duties and responsi-
bilities based on their personality types.

Seminar for Hardware Stores and Repair Shops May 17, 2019 (Kirbie Mae Pacinabao)

DTI South Cotabato conducted a seminar that cov-
ered the following:
Mandatory Product Standards - participants were
informed of the standard quality of hardware prod-
ucts and selling of substandard products are strict-
ly prohibited.
Repair Shop Accreditation Law - all repair shops
should be accredited first by DTI to ensure quality and competent services to the consumers.
DTI Bagwis Award Program - business establishments that practice responsible business will be awarded with a Bagwis Award plaque
and will be promoted by DTI. Fifty representatives from different hardware stores and repair shops attended the seminar.

June 6-25, 2019 (Leslie T. Aranilla)

Green economy is an important issue that APEC has been working on, in order to address the challenges of growing demand on the
world’s energy and the resulting climate change consequences, which in turn, shape the new growth patterns. Tremendous efforts have
been made to achieve the green economy such as promoting low-carbon and energy efficient technologies and improving natural disas-
ter resilience to mitigate climate-related risks in order to facilitate Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME).
It is important to highlight that the green economy cannot be fully achieved without the participation of MSMEs, which account for over
97 percent of all enterprises in the Asia – Pacific region and are also the great source of innovation and employment. However, more
efforts need to be made to raise awareness of MSMEs on the green economy, particularly those in developing economies.
The activity will help SSF operators develop a simplified greening strategies/activities/programs which will address some identified
constraints why MSMEs may not be able to fully participate in greening activities. Twenty two SSF Cooperators and Beneficiaries of DTI
-South Cotabato participated in the action planning workshop which was conducted last June 5, 2019 at Sunrise Lake Resort, Lake Se-
bu; June 13, 2019 at Elle’s Pension House, Surallah; June 18, 2019 at FB Hotel, City of Koronadal; and June 25, 2019 at JC Convention
Center. Each Cooperator had developed 1 GED action plan for implementation. Bagong Silang Workers Association won the 2nd Place for
the recently conducted SSF Awarding for Best Green Practices.

June 14, 2019 (Kirbie Mae Pacinabao)
In an effort to continually educate consumers with their rights, DTI South Cotabato conducted a special seminar for the senior
citizens and PWDs.
The following topics were discussed: RA 9442 or the Amended Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities, Granting of Discounts
to PWDs (Joint DTI-DA-DOE Administrative Order No. 17-01, Series of 2017). The same special discount ruling applies for Senior
Citizens, RA 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010
Speakers were from DTI South Co-
tabato, DSWD 12, and Federation of
PWDs Region 12. 25 Senior Citizens
and twenty five PWDs were in at-
tendance. Ms. Melanie Monroid of
the South Cotabato Consumers As-
sociation assisted in the facilitation
of the event.

News Brief 6

Training on Bamboo Bags and Baskets Painting and
Designing August 27-28, 2019 (Ria B. Hallarsis)

The DTI-SC conducted a 2-day training on bamboo bags and baskets painting and designing. This was
in partnership with the LGU-Surallah and Klowil Agricultural Enterprise MPC.

Participants during the activity were bamboo bags and basket weavers from Lake Sebu, 2 from
Takunel, 5 from Tasiman. There were also 3 PWD bamboo crafters from Koronadal City and 5 from
Klowil AE MPC, a cooperative into trading of these bags and baskets. Mr. Mario Villar of Kudlit was the
trainor of the activity. There were 17 designs developed.

September 16, 2019 (Ric Rodolf C. Punzalan)

The activity was undertaken in order to render MSMes access to finance services and consciousness
regarding government incentives such as that enshrined in RA 9178, otherwise known as “BMBE Law
of 2004”.

Representatives from financing institutions namely Radiowealth Finance Corporation, CARD MSME
Development Foundation, and BPI Direct Banko, Inc., presented the scheme of their financing pro-
grams for MSMEs. These include the qualification and the documentary requirements.

In addition, participants were oriented about the “BMBE Law” and its incentives and privileges for
barangay-based micro enterprises. Orientation includes qualifications, process of application, and the
privileges and incentives inherent of a certified BMBE. It was given emphasis that through these in-
centives and privileges, entrepreneurs will be able to scale up their business from being a barangay-
based micro enterprise. Pertinent forms were distributed.

There was a one-on-one consultation in the afternoon where participants were able to discuss their
application to their financing institution of choice on a one-on-one basis.

September 16-17, 2019 (Donna Ross F. Rivera)
Negosyo Center Banga conducted a seminar on Entrepreneurial Mind Setting, NC Advocacy, Food safety orientation, and Fair
Trade Law Orientation to the beneficiaries of the DILEEP Project of DOLE. The activity was conducted in partnership with the
PESO Office-Banga, with the resource speaker, MS. Donna Ross F. Rivera, Junior Business Counsellor of Negosyo Center Banga.
There were forty nine (49) participants composed of the participating Business Counsellor, resource speaker, LGU Engineering
Office Staffs, School Staffs, and the existing MSMEs who are involved in Hardware and Construction Supplies business.

Branding Development Seminar September 27, 2019 (Darlen Joy G. Galope-Morales)

Engr. Jessel Original-Cofleros (Speaker) discussed the “Understanding on Trademark”. She explained that the Registered Philip-
pine Patent Office 1947 is under R.A 165- Patent Law and R.A. 166 – Trademarks, the Bureau of Patents, Trademarks and Tech-
nology Transfer in 1987, then the Intellectual Property Office under R.A 8293.
Mrs. Cofleros explained the Intellectual Property as the creation of the human mind and the rights of the intellectual property also
as the Trade Secret. The next topic was Trademark which is protected as business asset, She discussed the functions of a Trade-
mark on how to identify, differentiate, quality indicator if it is fake or original, and as advertising device.
The last topic was how to fill-up Trademark Application Form. She gave the form and assisted the participants. As an option the
participants can also register through online.

DigitaljobsPH: Technical Training October 8, 2019 (Darlen Joy G. Galope-Morales)

In a joint effort of Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Department
of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Local Government of Polomolok, DICT's Project; DigitalJobsPH
has produced 23 competent graduates from Municipality of Polomolok. It’s primary objective is to
equip the scholars with ICT technical skills for online freelancing industry.

It is a win-win situation for both RIS Scholars and
MSMEs. Scholars were trained for Digital Marketing
and E-commerce Course wherein they've created a
website and run a digital marketing campaign that
boosted the sales of their partnered MSMEs.

The Graduation Ceremony was made successful with the presence of DICT Cluster
Dir. E. Tancontian, DTI ARD F. Gabunales, LGU Polomolok Representative Mark Jess
Lapid, DICT South Cotabato Provincial Dir. Viviano Naquila and RIS Focal Person
Engr. A. Gabriel.

7 News Brief

October 18, 2019 (Sharven A. Doronio)
In line with the consumer welfare month celebration with the theme: “Sustainable Consumption:
Understanding the impact of consumers choices in a shared environment” DTI-South Cotabato
conducted a provincial consumer quiz show. Below were the winners who received correspond-
ing rewards:

1st Place Jasper A. Petorio of Sto Niño National High School
2nd Place Shuylur Mia V. Suerte of Silway 8 National High School
3rd Place Jean Anthony S. Tuble of Koronadal National Comprehensive High School
There were 28 highschools, both government and private who participated in the contest. Only
junior highschools were qualified to participate.

The consumer quiz show is a yearly event being held every October during the celebration of the
Consumer Welfare Month. The winners of the contest represented the province during the re-
gional finals to compte with winners of the other five (5) fields offices in the region

How to Start a Business and Entrep Mind Setting October 30, 2019 (Christian Joy P. Bansuan)

Philippine Commission for the Urban Poor in partnership with DTI-South Cotabato conducted an
activity. Ms. Phyllis, the Mindanao Coordinator of Phil Commission for the Urban Poor, opened the
activity. She also gave the rationale and background of their activity.
Ms. Christian Joy P. Bansuan, the business counselor of Negosyo Center-NDMU was the resource
speaker. She discussed and presented the objectives of the module. Ms. Bansuan asked the partici-
pants why do they want to go into business? She then presented the risk and rewards if one will
proceed into doing business. She also discussed the basic entrepreneurial skill and characteristic
for them to become a successful entrepreneur.

After discussing the concepts, Ms. Bansuan conducted an activity where the participants were en-
couraged to write down their planned business ventures. The participants assessed their list based
on knowledge, experience, skill, ease of entry and uniqueness. From there the participants realized
that a business should be anchored to the individual capacity . Ms. Bansuan then presented ways
how to identify sustainable business opportunities.
There were twenty eight (28) participants, seven (7) males and twenry one (21) female.

November 26-27, 2019 (Leslie T. Aranilla)

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) South Cotabato - Field Office in its desire to improve the capabilities of their Shared
Service Facilities (SSF) beneficiaries held a seminar on Productivity through Effective Supervision (PES). The course trained 30
SSF cooperators who are responsible in handling their organization’s operations. The activity aimed to Identify the role and re-
sponsibilities of a supervisor, demonstrate skills in communicating, motivating, and training/developing workers, explain con-
cepts, elements, methods, procedures in operations planning and control. As well introduce was the problem-solving and deci-
sion-making and the tools and techniques employed to improve productivity. The training course was facilitated by Dr. Virgil C.
Binghay of UP ISSI.

Market Matching for Pasalubong Center Tantangan

November 27, 2019 (Claribelle B. Tahitit)
The activity aimed to provide a marketing outlet to the locally produced products of Tantangan fea-
turing quality improvement and continuous promotion.
In partnership with the Local Government unit of Tantangan and Negosyo Center Tantangan, the
Pasalubong Center will be establish in the first month of 2020 during the Kulitantang Festival.
Eight (8) MSMEs signified interest to improve and put their products to Pasalubong Center. Initial
agreements were arrived at during the activity and another session for product critiquing was
scheduled.

News Brief 8

November 20-21 (Leslie T. Aranilla) & December 5-6, 2019 (Waren Jay B. Nantes)

Series of Workshop on Sanitation Standard of Operating Procedure (SSOP) Manual of Operation were conducted last November
20-21 & December 5-6, 2019, held at EMR Center, Koronadal City. The activities were was participated by MSME-Beneficiaries of
Great Women Project (GWP), Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) and One-Town-One Product Next Gen Project
(OTOP NG) which aimed to 1) Understand the importance of setting up control procedures to address key sanitary conditions; 2)
Know the proper documentation requirements of sanitation control procedures; 3) Develop sanitation standard operating proce-
dures, plans and monitoring programs for implementation; 4) Plan and manage the maintenance of sanitary conditions and prac-
tices; and 5) Present the draft SSOP for each enterprise.
The discussion was facilitated by Ms. Kristine Joy K. Chua, a food technologist and consultant. She reiterated the importance of
SSOP for food processors especially many cases of foodborne illnesses are associated with sanitation problems. Discussed also
were the Guidelines covering the Current Good Manufacturing Practice. Fifteen (15) Individual MSMEs and 4 ARBOs developed
their SSOP Manual of Operation necessary in the implementation of Good Manufacturing Practices.

Organizational Culture Initiative

“Creating a better work-life balance” (Momina M. Amino)

The Department of Trade and Industry-South Cotabato is responsible not only in
guaranteeing excellent services to its clientele but also in providing planned pro-
grams to its workforces. The Organizational Culture Initiative (OCI) in response to
Memorandum order No. 15-739 series of 2015 to promote teamwork and establish
veneration in cultural diversity. Consequently, OCI provides good benefits to the
employees for it encourages the team to try new things outside of their comfort zone, mitigate health issues and help develop
trust and appreciation among colleagues.

DTI South Cotabato Office accomplished two OCI in year 2019. In both OCI sched-
ules, the staff were actively engaged in various activities. Part of the program was a
photo contest by taking a groupie snapshot depicting the DTI values such as pas-
sion, integrity, competence, creativity, synergy and love of country which aimed to
enhance collaboration and solidarity among the personnel. Team building were
also part of the program which aimed to strengthen cooperation and enthuse the
staff to interconnect through shar-
ing their ideas, opinions and strategy in a given situation. We also care for our en-
vironment thus, conducted the “Clean-Up drive” which aimed to promote environ-
mental awareness, by promoting a waste-free surrounding.
OCI is hereby encourage to strengthen camaraderie in the workplace and motivate
employees to work at their best towards achieving the organizational goal.

Milestone

October 3-8, 2019 (Leslie T. Aranilla and Waren Jay B. Nantes)

DTI South Cotabato and LGU-City of Koronadal collaborated in the launching of NegoSolusyon during the celebration of the City’s
19th Charter Anniversary and 9th Negosyo Festival. The activity was held from October 3-8, 2019 at KCC Mall of Marbel where City
Mayor Eliordo U. Ogena, DTI-12 ARD Flora P. Gabunales and DTI-SC OIC PD Rictoniel T. Reginio led the opening program.
NEGOsolusyon 2019 with the theme, “Share-Connect-Learn” is a regional strategy for DTI XII to extend its assistance and services to
the MSMEs of Region 12. In turn, MSMEs will be equipped with the right knowledge and know-how for them to scale-up their
businesses and apply green practices. NEGOsolusyon is a customized package of business-related services for entrepreneurs and
would-be entrepreneurs through a series of activities, namely: NEGOcoach, NEGOlink, NEGOmodels, NEGOpack, NEGOtalks, and
NEGOtech. Along with Negosolusyon activities are the Regional Food Expo, Tsokokapetearia, Barista Training and Competition
and Technology Development on Food Processing.

9 Milestone

The evolution of Tsokokapetearia (Leslie T. Aranilla)

With its advocacy on the pro- Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) and beneficiaries of
motion of artisanal prepara- Shared Service Facilities (SSF) for cacao and coffee. In 2017, it
tion of tsokolate & kape, DTI was suggested that the name be revised into Tsokokapehan to
South Cotabato find its way
to bent and made it happen. clearly emphasize the two (2) finished products. It was then one
Way back in 2016, Tsokapeh- of the highlight on the important events conducted by DTI South
an was introduced during the Cotabato.
3rd Treasures of During the 5th Treasures of R12 on its Our Treats, RD Doris in-
SOCCSKSARGEN at SM Mall of corporated various tea products to Tsokokapehan where she
Gensan where its purpose was to introduce to the millennial
the old way of preparing the tsokolate out of tablea and coined it as Tsokokapetearia. A lounge was then provided in the
brewed coffee known to be “native coffee”. Since then, series venue for the Tsokokapetearia and the recently developed
of technology development activities on cocoa and coffee pro- PanPasalubong Products. This highlighted
duction and processing were introduced to increase aware- the different cocoa, coffee and tea products “Let’s talk Arti-
ness of every farmer on the compliance of Good Agricultural of Region 12 where various bread and pas- san: Paving a way
Practices and Good Manufacturing Practices. These are now tries were partnered to those concoctions. to gear up Artisan
evolved farmer-processors who managed to invest with facili- South Rays Valley Food Corp., and Tupi Coffee and Choc-
ties and processing centers which includes 2 Agrarian Reform Coffee Growers Association, Inc., proces- olate”
sors from South Cotabato were grateful for
the opportunity to operate the Tsokokapetearia.

DSuccess implementation of the KMME Program 2019 (Christian Joy P. Bansuan)
TI-South Cotabato had it’s another successful run of the Kapatid Mentor Me (KMMe) Program for year 2019. The KMMe is one

of DTI’s most promising programs where selected entrepreneurs undergo a 10-module mentoring composed of different learning
subjects. These modules were carefully selected to fit for the operational applications of a Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise
(MSME). This year’s run is the 3rd batch of KMME graduates delivered by the South Cotabato team. The program started with its
regional roll out together with the province of Sarangani and the city of General Santos last May 23, 2019 at Family Country Hotel,
General Santos City. The ten modules are being taught by a pool of mentors which are composed of successful entrepreneurs
(a.k.a big brothers), industry experts, educators, and practitioners. The following were the details of the DTI-South Cotabato
KMMe 2019 Program:

Module / Activity Title of Module/Activity Schedule Mentor
Module 1 Entrepreneurial Mindset and Values Formation 04/23/19 Cecilio Pedro

Module 2 Marketing 04/23/19 Pocholo Soliven

Module 3A Product Development 05/24/19 Bronx Hebrona
Module 3B Market Growth and Expansion
05/31/19 Theoffany Joy Cabanda
Module 4 Business Model Canvass

Module 5 Operations Management 06/07/19 Rey Billena
06/14/19 Agripina Leonico
Module 6 Supply and Value Chain 06/21/19 Charmaine Dawn Ladot

Module 7 Human Resource and Organization Management

Module 8 Entrepreneurial Accounting and Financial Management 06/28/19 Fiel Anthony Forro

Module 9 Taxation 07/05/19 Phoebe Montefalcon

Module 10 Business Law (Obligations & Contracts) 07/12/19 Atty. Raul Josefino Miguel
The entrepreneurs enrolled in this program came from the ten municipalities and one city in South Cotabato. Each of them under-
went the selection process. The composition was as follows: Koronadal City- 6, Tantangan- 2, Tampakan- 2, Tupi-1, Polomolok- 4,
Banga- 2, Surallah- 2, Norala- 2, Sto Niño- 2, Tboli- 1, and Lake Sebu– 1 a total of 25 mentees enrolled.

These mentees were able to complete the ten
modules and graduated upon presenting their
Business Improvement Plan (BIP). Their BIP
presentation was an application of their learn-
ings where they were required to set a plan for
their business. The BIP presentation includes
critiquing and interview from distinguished set
of panel which evaluated their readiness to grad-
uate. The twenty-five (25) mentees graduated
last August 2, 2019 At EMR Center, Koronadal
City.

Milestone 10

Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay: Municipal Launching (Xyline Joyce D. Dagum)

Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay is a 3-year project that was first
introduced to the public and all 1095 barangays in the region
last November 14, 2018 during the conduct of the week-long

celebration of Treasures of Region 12. It was spearheaded and
developed by the Regional Director Dorecita T. Delima of the
Deparment of Trade and Industry. Along with its purpose to
bring government services closer to the barangay, it also aims
to establish an NSB Desk where a desk officer assigned by the

barangay executive committee will man it. The NSB Desk is
composed of one table, one flyer standee, one shelf, and one tv
that will be attached to the standee.

Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay, a convergence project with NSB Focal Persons Underwent Series of Capa-
bility Building Seminar (Christian Joy P. Bansuan)
DOLE, TESDA, DILG, DA, and DOST that aims to bring govern- The Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay (NSB) is one of the priority
ment services closer to the barangay level, had its municipal
launching in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. It was held in Punta programs of DTI starting 2019 to 2022. It is a convergence pro-
Isla Lake Resort, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato last November 20, gram with other national government agencies to streamline
2019. It was divided in two parts—Entrepreneurial Develop-
ment Seminar in the morning and the turn-over ceremony in the services that may be offered to the identified barangays.
the afternoon. The participants were the beneficiaries, BLGU The NSB shall pave way for entrepreneurial development, en-
Officials, and assigned NSB Focal Persons from all four identi- hancement of economic dynamism, improvement of standards
fied priority barangays in Lake Sebu. These priority barangays of living and eventually decrease poverty level in the barangay.
were Barangay Lake Lahit, Barangay Lamlahak, Barangay
Lamdalag, and Barangay T’konel. The seminar started with the For 2019, DTI South Cotabato has identified 34 priority baran-
arrival of the participants at 8:00 in the morning and was offi- gays which the NSB program will be implemented. Every ba-
cially opened through a welcome remarks of Babylon F. Ma- rangay has crafted their own business package which shall be
ganaka, Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist of the main focus of the program implementation. Likewise, each
the Consumer Welfare Division of DTI- South Cotabato. In his
message, he highlighted the mandates of DTI, Negosyo Center barangay has appointed an NSB Focal person who shall be the
services, other programs, and its aim to extend its services to front liner for the delivery of service. These focal persons un-
people at the barangay level thus the formation of Negosyo derwent series of capability seminars which started last March
Serbisyo sa Barangay. 6 & 7, 2019 for the area cluster program orientation and entre-

Leslie T. Aranilla, resource speaker for the seminar and a Sen- preneurial enhancement seminar. The succeeding activities
ior Trade and Industry Development Specialist from DTI South were as follows:
Cotabato highlighted the importance of being sensitive to the
changes happening around an individual as an entrepreneur as TITLE OF THE ACTIVITY DATE VENUE
this affect on how an entrepreneur approaches its customers NSB Action Planning May 30, 2019
and market. Afterwhich, each barangay participated in the ac- EMR Center,
tion planning workshop led by Rictoniel T. Reginio, Officer-in- Koronadal City
Charge of the DTI- South Cotabato Provincial Office.
How to Prepare Effective Aug. 29, 2019 EMR Center,
In the afternoon, the awaited Turn-over Ceremony was con- Business Proposal Koronadal City
ducted. It was graced with the attendance of DTI Secretary Ra-
mon M. Lopez along with the regional directors from all re- Simple Bookkeeping Oct 28-29, EMR Center,
gions. In his message, he emphasized the goal of DTI to provide Seminar 2019 Koronadal City
more and better services to the people through its different FB Hotel, Koron-
programs. Municipal Mayor Floro S. Gandam and representa- Proper Costing & Pricing Nov. 5, 2019 adal City
tives from partner agencies DOLE and TESDA were also pre-
sent as well. Productivity Enhance- Dec. 5-6, 88 Hotel, Koron-
ment Seminar through 2019 adal City
During the Turn-over Ceremo- Effective Supervision
ny, NSB Packages from DTI
were awarded to Barangay These trainings were critically chosen by DTI-South Cotabato
Lake Lahit and Barangay Lam- that the NSB Focal person will deliver the necessary services
lahak. These were only half of that their barangay will be needing in line with their crafted
the identified barangays as the business packages.
LGU and DTI have agreed to a
50-50 counterpart for the pro-
ject. Avelino Nalon, Punong Ba-
rangay of Brgy. Lamlahak were
sincerely grateful of the oppor-
tunity to become the recipient of the project.

11 F e a t u r e s

The Idyllic Lake Holon
(Elliza C. Manalo)

Abundant nature. Magnificent view. Traverse into an Tboli decided to open the lake for tourism bearing the
name Lake Holon. Since its rebranding, tourist influx con-
enchanting journey, a mystifying experience no one can tinue to increase. Locals tell stories of fairies and unseen
forget. Discover Lake Holon, the Crown Jewel of the South. creatures that inhabited the land even before the first set-
tlers came to the area. It was told that mountains are
Nestled at the crater of Mt. Parker is Lake Holon, abundant guarded by gods and goddesses. No wonder why natives
with fresh clean waters and surrounded by lush green believe that Lake Holon is favored with serenity and beauty
forest and pastures. It brings forth the tranquil, peaceful for it is the epitome of their sacred sanctuary. After a long
feeling to every traveler in search for a place to relax. His- and exhausting walk, travelers will wonder upon the mystic
tory dated 1641, an aggressive eruption of Mt. Parker gave and glorious scenery that the lake will offer them.
birth to this marvelous lake which is now considered as
one of the cleanest bodies of water in the country. The 300 Getting to Lake Holon will take an hour ride by motorcycle
-hectare wide lake sits at 1, 756 meters above sea level from Barangay Poblacion to Barangay Salacafe of Tboli.
and is one of the main tourist destinations in South Co- Travelers need to walk for approximately seven kilometers
tabato. from Barangay Salacafe and would take three to four hours
before reaching the camping ground, depending on the
Tragic past lies underneath the lake’s moss coated pace. Visitors must need to visit the Tourism Office of the
grounds when it flooded connecting villages in 1995 and Municipality of Tboli before proceeding to the journey for
killed approximately fifty-five people with eighteen still safety measures and proper guidance.
missing up-to-date. Families grieved, infrastructures were
banished after the disaster. It was known to be the Lake Too eager for a long holiday? Come and enjoy the breath-
Maughan’s disaster of 1995 which was followed by March taking view of Lake Holon. Visit Tourism Office of Tboli or
2001 Tragedy when it caused flood after a 7.6 magnitude their official facebook page, LAKE HOLON, for information
earthquake. and details.

Despite those calamities, the Local Government Unit of

Young Farmpreneur: Fermenting her way to success

Jawharia Nawa Bajunaid, a farmer supplier of DOLE Philippines, saw the potential of

fermenting excess papaya and other tropical fruits into a healthy dietary food supple-
ment.
JNB’s main product lines include Fruit-Vital Xantonic 4-in-1, a chemical-free healthy
concoction/ dietary supplement composed of Mangosteen, Guyabano, Papaya and
Banana juices sweetened with Wild Honey; Fruit-Vital Pure 4-in-1 Xantonic with
same ingredients without Honey; and Fruit-Vital Pure Papaya Cider Vinegar. The all-
natural concoctions have been able to preserve the nutritional properties and fruit
enzymes through a natural fermentation process. It has not been subjected to high-
heat processes, like distillation, sterilization, and pasteurization. It has probiotic bac-
teria (Acetobacter) which kill infection-causing germs.
One of the major challenges which Arianne encountered when she started handling
the business was how to get more customers. "The product and the amazing formula-
tion are there; the challenge is in the promotion and marketing," Arianne said.
Fortunately, she was able to seek DTI's and Negosyo Center’s assistance, which gave
their business its much-needed boost. They became regular exhibitors during DTI-sponsored trade fairs such as Treas-
ures of SOX and Manila FAME. Through the trade fairs, she was able to gain market exposure, brand recognition and link
with distributors of her products.
Arianne is also one of the graduates of the Kapatid Mentor ME on October 12, 2017. "KMME taught me how to handle and

Features 12

manage my business and finances. I was able to establish a government agencies. These awards are: the 2015 and
network with the KMME mentors," said Arianne. 2017 Treasures of SOX Top Grosser from the Department
“I am extremely grateful to my mentors. Even after the of Trade and Industry Region 12;, Mindanao Trade Expo
KMME, the mentors continue to extend their advice and
support to us mentees despite their busy schedules,” she 2017 Top Grosser awarded by the Mindanao Trade Expo
said. "I wouldn't be where I am right now without the help Foundation, Inc.; National Food Fair 2018 Top Grosser
of my mentors," she added. from the Department of Trade and Industry, Gawad Saka
Further, she also became a participant of DTI's OTOP Next Agri-Entrepreneur Awardee 2010 and 2011 both given by
Gen, and Branding Equity and Development, which helped the Department of Agriculture; and 2018 Agri-
develop the product's packaging and labeling as well as Entrepreneur Awardee Provincial and Regional still given
branding. She was also able to showcase and market her by the Department of Agriculture.
products in Go Lokal! Stores located in different malls in "Hindi laging rainbows and sunshine ang pagnenegosyo
the region. kaya dapat laging prepared at tibayan ang loob. Dapat pa-
Now a full-time businesswoman, Arianne raised JNB’s
monthly sales a thousand times than what it was earning laging naka-focus," she advised.
before. This comes from four mall outlets, two of which And as her business grew, Arianne has expanded her
are located in General Santos City, and another two are product lines to include all-natural teas, coffee, and cos-
located in Davao City. This year, JNB opens four (4) new metics, marketed under the new business name “Iho Natu-
branches in Metro Manila located at SM Fairview, SM Sta.
Mesa, SM North, SM Lazaro, last July and August 2018. rals”, which is owned and managed by Arianne’s husband,
Aside from this, JNB has established distribution outlets in Giancarlo Ho. She also included natural tea and coffee, co-
Davao City and Metro Manila. co sugar in her product lines. She currently employs 44
As a proof of their success, JNB Diversified Food Industries workers.
was able to garner various awards from different national Thus, the success of JNB Diversified Food Industries
showed that a viable product and business idea paired
with an aggressive marketing strategy is a powerful com-
bination in business.

K’na K’noon: Beautiful Dreams

Klowil Agricultural Enterprises Multi-Purpose Coopera- Tinalak and fibercrafts to consumer and institutional buy-
ers.
tive (KLOWIL MPC) is a registered cooperative with the
Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) of Region-12. The Department of Trade and Industry, Region 12 and
It is operating within SOCSKSARGEN area and with offices South Cotabato office intervention in product promotion,
at Barangay Klubi, Lake Sebu and Surallah all in South Co- marketing, product development and standardization and
tabato province. Klowil is a Tboli word means livelihood, institutional and technical capacity building has greatly
progress, peace, harmony and sustainable development. helped in the improvement of their production of Tinalak
fabrics and finished products.
KLOWIL MPC has a total membership of 600 Tboli peo-
ple composed of 100 Abaca farmers and 525 women Ti- DTI has also sponsored participation in national Trade
nalak weavers. It is engaged in the production, trading and fairs like Manila Fame in Manila, Sikat Pinoy Arts and
marketing of Abaca fibers, T’nalak fabrics and Tinalak Crafts, the Treasures of SOX both held in Gen. Sntos City
based finished products. and in Manila.

KLOWIL MPC is a social enterprise, organized under The National Commission on Culture and Arts thru the
the auspices of Kasanyangan-Mindanao Foundation, Inc. office of Senator Loren Legarda has also assisted KLOWIL
(KFI) last March 2003. It aims to help Tboli abaca farmers MPC by providing equipment/tools for Tinalak fabrics
and women Tinalak weavers attain quality of life, promote production and has invited them to join the National
and enhance cultural integrity. It undertakes rain foresta- Trade Fairs in Manila,
tion thru integrated abaca farming systems development Today, “we can say that with the assistance of our Govern-
to help address deforestation and denudation of Lake Se- ment agencies, we can somehow say that we are success-
bu in particular; and mitigate climate change in general. ful of our endeavors as we have institutional buyers in
Its our priority thrust is triple bottom lines: sustainable Davao, Cebu and Manila who continuously support us and
income to the enterprise and stakeholders; social justice our finished products are known not only here but also
for the indigenous people of Lake Sebu and environmental abroad” Tomas Gapuz, Operations Manager said.
justice.
Finally, “it is worth knowing that we are not alone in
During the first year of operations, Fiber Industry De- our quest, of not only preserving the indigenous textile or
velopment Authority (now PHILFIDA) central office mar- the most popularly known as “traditional textile” but de-
keting Division has strongly supported KLOWIL MPC to veloping and enhancing the creativity of indigenous peo-
market both the fiber and Tinalak fabrics and co- spon- ple who are the Tboli women weavers into designing and
sored the participation of KLOWIL MPC in the national weaving that satisfies both their ingenuity dreams and
trade fairs and exhibits. These national trade fairs and fashion and sustainable family income” Tomas Gapuz’s
exhibits are good venue to promote and market fiber, statement.