RAFI Micro-finance gives back to Bohol clients

By Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc
September 8, 2012

CEBU CITY  –  “Power is in the business that improves lives, including that of all the people in the Philippines, but success will not be acquired overnight but needs constant diligence,” Ma. Theresa G. Catipay, executive director of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) Micro-finance, said in her message during the second general assembly of Bohol Area on August 18 at the Bohol Wisdom School Gymnasium, Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

With the theme, “Kakugi, Binhi sa Kaugmaon”, the event drew 1,081 women micro-entrepreneurs from Tagbilaran, Talibon, Tubigon, and Ubay branch of operations. The nanays actively participated in the various activities.

Top performing clients in various categories such as the Most Outstanding Client, Most Outstanding Chairwoman, Most Improved Group and Client, and Conscientious Saver were recognized and were given cash prizes. The group with the most artistic banner was also awarded.

The Most Outstanding Client award was given to Claudia C. Celis from Inabanga, Bohol.

The general assembly is conducted once every three years in the area to honor RAFI Micro-finance clients who remained loyal to the program for five years or more and to acknowledge model women micro-entrepreneurs.

“No dreams will ever come true unless you wake up and realize them,” Most Outstanding Client from Leyte Zenaida Nuñez, who was gave an inspirational message during the event, said.

Nuñez mentioned knowledge, skills, and attitude as keys to success.

“If you are not skilled in hairstyling and rebonding, do not venture into opening a beauty salon, but instead think of the skills you have and apply it to your business,” she advised fellow clients.

In partnership with Pilmico, the participants were given training on hog raising. The Department of Agriculture (DA) Bohol Experiment Station also shared their expertise in cassava food processing.

Nanays also showcased their talents, and some of their products were displayed in a trade fair.

Children who were around during the event were given art kits through RAFI's Dolores Aboitiz Children’s Fund (DACF).

Approximately 350 pre-determined women clients and their children received free medical consultations, and initial dosage of medicines and vitamins. Cervical screening was also conducted to the beneficiaries of the medical mission in collaboration with RAFI's Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center (EJACC) and volunteer doctors and nurses from Cebu and Bohol.

Micro-finance is a program under the Micro-finance & Entrepreneurship focus area of RAFI, providing financial resources and know-how to women micro-entrepreneurs to nurture financial independence and entrepreneurship. Other focus areas of RAFI are Integrated Development, Culture & Heritage, Leadership & Citizenship, and Education.