MASS-SPECC celebrates Int’l Women’s Day with COOPera’tEBA: Eba Talks, women entrepreneurs
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines — In celebration of International Women’s Day last March 8, 2024, MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center, in collaboration with Andam Higala, Inc., proudly introduced the “COOPera’tEBA: A Gender and Development Program.”
The program kicked off with “EBA Talks,” an enlightening online discourse featuring distinguished women entrepreneurs who generously shared their remarkable journeys and invaluable insights for achieving business success.
This groundbreaking initiative aims to engage, equip, and empower women entrepreneurs within the co-operative sector, aligning with the theme of #IWD2024, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.”
Notable speakers included Queritess Queja, Executive Director of Oro Chamber of Commerce, whose diverse ventures encompass office space rentals, Ilocandia restaurant management, and poultry and farming enterprises. Also present was Gemma Dela Vega Emata, Vice President of Oro Chamber of Commerce and an innovative force behind Cocosavor, a coconut-based condiment recognized as a Regional and National Finalist in the Development of FIC Competency, facilitating the transition of new products from concept to market launch. Their narratives provided inspiration for aspiring women entrepreneurs, particularly within the Mindanawon co-operative movement.
The online event was held through Zoom and connected to Facebook Live on MASS-SPECC and Andam Higala’s page.
Doris Calapiz, Women’s Representative to the MASS-SPECC Board of Directors and the GAD Committee Chairperson, delivered the opening remarks, setting the tone for an engaging and empowering discussion.
“It is a global day to celebrate and recognize women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements,” said Calapiz. “Today is also a reminder for all of us to realize women’s potential and create a world where every woman feels safe and empowered.”
Carmel Neri-Dytingco, MASS-SPECC Strategic Communication Unit Officer and GAD Focal Person, provided insights into the COOPera’tEBA Program and its salient details. She mentioned that the “EBA Talks” was the first component of the developing COOPera’tEBA Program, designed to foster entrepreneurship discourse and provide a platform for sharing success stories, experiences, and best practices to inspire emerging women entrepreneurs in Mindanao.
The event also featured Ma. Alexandrea Venilda Portillo, Chairperson of Andam Higala Inc., who shed light on the collaborative efforts driving this initiative forward.
Over 60 member co-operative attendees participated in interactive sessions, including games and raffles, adding a touch of fun to the enriching experience.
MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center is committed to promoting social entrepreneurship and empowering women across the co-operative sector and beyond. Through initiatives like COOPera’tEBA Program, MASS-SPECC strives to create an inclusive and sustainable future where “all members enjoy a better quality of life.
