In the farming town of Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental, Juvy Caparoso, 53, has transformed a life once burdened by financial hardship into a thriving tobacco enterprise. Together with her husband Danilo and their five children, Juvy faced years of limited capital and unstable income, until she discovered the empowering support of MSU-IIT National Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MSU-IIT NMPC).

Before joining the co-op, Juvy relied on small, informal loans to keep her household afloat. But in 2013, after an orientation, she took a chance and became a member. She began with a modest Loan Against Deposit (LAD) of ₱3,000, which she quickly repaid. From there, her trust and commitment grew as did her loans, which eventually reached ₱250,000. Each loan helped expand her tobacco farming and cover her children’s education. Today, two of her children are married, two are graduating, and one is in her third year of college.

Juvy chose tobacco farming for its profitability. Although labor-intensive and dependent on unpredictable weather, she found the income more rewarding than other crops. With patience and care, native tobacco yields high-quality leaves that are in constant demand. A single crop cycle can yield a significant return, especially when market supply is low.

To maintain quality, she practices indigenous methods and organic fertilization, investing in water supply and equipment during dry spells. Each cycle, from seedbed preparation to harvest, demands precision and care. With 10 farm workers under her wing, Juvy ensures they’re compensated fairly: food, accommodation, holiday bonuses, and even per-hour overtime pay.

Beyond her farm, Juvy shares her blessings. Her business contributes to the local barangay through regulated product fees, and the income her workers earn helps their own families. Some of them, including her helpers, have even become co-op members themselves as encouraged by Juvy.

An active member in good standing, Juvy regularly saves, attends assemblies, and advocates for co-operative growth. “MSU-IIT Cooperative was the foundation of our success,” she says. “They stood by us when no one else could.”