MIMAROPA-Stars-3 080717 FINAL

MIMAROPA Oriental
Mindoro
Region Marinduque
Occidental
Mindoro
West Romblon
Philippine
Sea
DOST-MIMAROPA
Regional Office
Bicutan, Taguig City,
Palawan Metro Manila
Sulu Sea
success stories of SETUP-assisted and community-based projects
of the Department of Science and Technology-MIMAROPA Region
edited by Ma. Josefina P. Abilay

Message from the President of the Republic of the Philippines
M
y warmest greetings to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-
MIMAROPA Regional Office on the publication of the MIMAROPA Stars
Volume 3.
One of the pillars of our Ten-Point Socio-Economic Agenda is the promotion of
science and technology as a catalyst for self-sustaining and inclusive growth. I therefore
laud the DOST’s efforts in providing technical assistance to our micro, small and medium
enterprises (MSMEs) through its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program.
I also commend the DOST MIMAROPA Regional Office for publishing the third
volume of MIMAROPA Stars. By compiling the success stories of DOST-assisted
businesses in the region, you highlight the important role of scientific innovation in the
advancement of Filipino entrepreneurs.
May this publication inspire community-based enterprises to join us in creating a
more dynamic economy that is capable of providing a better life for our people. Together,
let us empower our MSMEs towards building a stronger and more progressive nation
for future generations.
I wish you all the best.
H.E. RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE

Message from the Chair of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology
I
n my previous work as a social entrepreneur and even now as a senator, I have met
many Filipinos who overcame poverty through entrepreneurship.
I witnessed how supporting micro-enterprises with financing, market linkage,
mentorship and training, could turn a small sari-sari store into a stable source of
livelihood for a poor Filipino family.
For this reason, I worked on the passage of laws that would help more Filipinos
succeed in business and develop their entrepreneurial spirit as the previous Chairman
of the Senate Committee on Trade, Commerce and Entrepreneurship.
Now, as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, I
am thrilled to see the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) supporting our
micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through technology and innovation.
Maraming salamat sa DOST-MIMAROPA sa pagsuporta sa mga negosyanteng
Pilipino at sa paglathala ng kanilang mga kwento ng tagumpay!
By telling these stories of hope and success, I am confident more Filipinos will be
empowered to build their own business, provide for their families, and generate more
jobs and opportunities in our communities.
Mabuhay ang negosyanteng Pilipino!
In the spirit of inclusive growth and nation-building,
HON. PAOLO BENIGNO A. AQUINO IV

Senator
Republic of the Philippines
Message from the Chair of the House Committee on Science and Technology
I
highly commend the efforts of the Department of Science and Technology-MIMAROPA
Regional Office for publishing MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3, another inspiring
compilation of success stories of micro and medium scale-enterprises (MSMEs) and
community-based enterprises (CBEs) duly assisted by the Department of Science and
Technology’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program also known as SETUP.
Congratulations to the entrepreneurs featured in this book who shared their success
stories so that others will be inspired to do the same and avail of the technological
assistance offered by the DOST SETUP aimed at improving the quality of their products
and services and bringing their business to the next level.
The stories featured herein is a testament to the key role science and technology
innovation programs blended with the determination, passion and perseverance of the
entrepreneurs play at improving inclusive growth in terms of business, economy and
livelihood of our people especially in the countryside.
May you continue to produce and share awe-inspiring journeys of MSMEs
towards success.
Congratulations and Mabuhay!
HON. ERICO ARISTOTLE C. AUMENTADO

Representative
2nd District, Bohol
Message from the DOST Secretary
A
t the Annual Summit of Enterprising SETUP Clients and Opportunities during
the 2017 National Science and Technology Week, I talked about the time—way
back in 1990—when I was the Director of the DOST Technology Application
and Promotion Institute, that it was quite a challenge to convince businesses to avail
of DOST’s services for productivity and technology improvement. However, through
word-of-mouth of our satisfied assisted enterprises, the number of our beneficiaries
quickly grew.
Just over a decade later, in 2002 the DOST improved the delivery of its services in
addressing the many needs and challenges of our Micro Small and Medium Enterprises
(MSMEs) through the establishment of the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading
Program (SETUP), which is a comprehensive package of scientific and technological
assistance for MSMEs to enhance their operations, productivity, and competitiveness.
The rest, as they say, is history—billions have been invested on the innovation system
and support for enterprises, increasing technology interventions to various MSMEs
nationwide, and contributing to employment generation.
MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3, a compilation of success stories of SETUP-assisted
MSMEs and community-based enterprises in the MIMAROPA Region, offers us a closer
look as to how science, technology, and innovation can drive self-sustaining inclusive
development and change lives of individuals, businesses, and communities.
I commend the DOST-MIMAROPA management and staff for all their efforts in
promoting the benefits of S&T in the countryside, and their dedication in carrying out
their duties effectively as public servants.
May the stories serve as an inspiration in championing Science for the People.
Mabuhay!
FORTUNATO T. DE LA PEÑA
Message from the DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations
I
would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to DOST-MIMAROPA for the
publication of the MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3!
Since its inception in 2002, the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program
(SETUP) has been assisting and encouraging micro, small, and medium enterprises
and community-based enterprises nationwide to adopt technological innovations to
help them improve operations and boost productivity and competitiveness. It aims to
bring positive change to the local community, helping them create more possibilities,
and leading them to a better life through S&T.
The stories of the MSMEs and CBEs published in this book are testament of the
real and remarkable progress in the region. It brings me great joy to know that lives have
been transformed, that science and technology is being felt on the ground, that new
quality products are being produced, jobs being created, and firms and community-
based enterprises are being competitive.
MIMAROPA Stars Vol. 3 also significantly contributes to communicating our
programs and services and their value to the people. The inspiring stories of your
clients’ entrepreneurial journey manifest the benefits and impact of DOST programs
and services on countryside development.
Your untiring commitment, perseverance, and excellent service to MIMAROPA
have certainly made a difference. Sustain the good job and continue to bring science,
technology, and innovation to the people.
Again, Congratulations!
BRENDA L. NAZARETH-MANZANO
Message from the DOST-MIMAROPA Regional Director
W
armest greetings of solidarity!
It is a moment of great pride and excitement for DOST-MIMAROPA as we
celebrate with you the publication of the MIMAROPA STARS Volume 3.
In 2013, we started to tell stories of our entrepreneurs who have triumphed
over setbacks and whom, through the aid of science and technology, have achieved
unparalleled heights of success to provide inspiration and confidence to those who aim
to start on their own. The MIMAROPA Stars series, now on its third volume, is staying
true to its purpose—encouraging prospective entrepreneurs and promoting innovations
that strengthen technopreneurial ecosystem in the countryside.
This volume is woven with compelling stories and photographs that show how
science and technology is improving businesses and community-based enterprises
in an astonishing way, empowering communities, and changing lives. This volume
again recognizes firms and CBEs who have opted to do things differently, by adopting
appropriate technologies, to carve out a niche for themselves.
Stories published in this book portray how S&T interventions help MSMEs break
into markets, create job opportunities, improve productivity and overall economy in
local communities, and most of all, change lives for the better.
Allow me to commend my colleagues with whom I have worked in shaping this book.
The projects cited here have been successful through their hard work and dedication.
And we, most certainly, couldn’t have published this without all the people who allowed
us to tell their stories to the world.
We, at DOST-MIMAROPA, hope that this publication may serve as an inspiration
to others on the importance of science, technology, and innovation to countryside
development. May this book create a fitting testament of our service to MIMAROPA
and our country.
Thank you and Mabuhay!
DR. MA. JOSEFINA P. ABILAY

Message from the Governor of Occidental Mindoro
L
et me congratulate the Department of Science and Technology DOST-MIMAROPA
Region for its third volume of MIMAROPA Stars.
This Star opens window of great information to the people of our five island
provinces, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan
as it features the tremendous achievements of the DOSTs flagship program through
the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) and those who played
a big part to its success.
Again, we are one for the best.
HON. MARIO GENE J. MENDIOLA

Message from the Lone District Representative, Occidental Mindoro
M
y warmest congratulations to the DOST MIMAROPA for the launch of the 3rd
Volume of MIMAROPA Stars, a collection of success stories showing how
technological advances and applications helped in the success of community-
based Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. In an era where comparative advantage
defines success, the DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP)
has indeed assisted up-and-coming community enterprises boost their productivity
and competitiveness, giving them that much needed edge.
My deepest appreciation also to Sec. Boy Dela Peña for leading the charge on
DOST’s “Technology for the People” vision, ensuring that our people, especially those
who are marginalized and neglected, are given more opportunities through science
and technology. Sec. Dela Peña’s recent visit to OKSI (Occidental Mindoro) to launch
different programs of DOST has again opened-up new possibilities for inclusive growth
and development in the province.
Let the success stories of MIMAROPA Stars be an inspiration to more entrepreneurs
to face the challenges of hard start-ups and birthing pains to a prosperous, productive
and competitive community enterprise, where people, most importantly, is at the heart
of all their success.
HON. JOSEPHINE Y. RAMIREZ-SATO

Message from the Governor of Oriental Mindoro
A
comprehensive anthology of inspiring stories of success and struggles, of
triumphs and trials, of ambitions and accomplishments. Let the stories of the
entrepreneurial success of the region’s flourishing firms and community-based
enterprises shine through the MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3 of the Department of Science
and Technology-MIMAROPA Region.
As in its two previous volumes, MIMAROPA Stars will once again highlight
triumphs of various business ventures in the region that have prospered through the
smart adoption and successful implementation of DOST’s flagship program, the Small
Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).
The stories within its pages reflect how these enterprises started from their humble
beginnings, struggled against obstacles and difficulties and triumphed against all odds.
All these achieved through DOST’s introduction and provision of innovative science
and technology systems, technical and consultancy needs and services, product
development and standardization and other industry-related support and assistance.
With the MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3, readers will likewise be inspired of the stories
of people who played a big part in these businesses’ success, and whose lives have
been changed because of it.
With great optimism, we trust that these moving stories of lives changed thru
Science and Technology would inspire more rising entrepreneurs to venture into
the risky but rewarding industries of business and entrepreneurship and contribute
consequently to the region’s growing economy.
The Provincial Government of Oriental Mindoro under my helm would constantly be
supportive of all the development undertakings of the DOST MIMAROPA for the people
of our island provinces. Let us all work actively and collaboratively towards realizing
one common vision of sustainable development for our people and for our region.
Congratulations and God bless us all!
HON. ALFONSO V. UMALI, JR.

Message from the 1st District Representative, Oriental Mindoro
I
have long been an avid fan of the journey that you have shared us over the years.
The way you embrace the boons and banes of globalization and how you survived
the challenging periods of modernization are all indeed commendable.
DOST never fails to surprise us with noteworthy innovations and science
interventions without compromising the natural identity of our country that we preserve
for the next generation. As always, you work with great compassion and commitment of
inspiring people to go beyond their dreams and welcome change as part of our lives.
The success of SETUP-Assisted and Community-Based Enterprises from the five
island provinces of the region is a testament of DOST’s remarkable accomplishments.
Alongside, the major triumph of the Stars featured in this volume is not their businesses
but their stories and the contribution of significant others behind it.
For the countless times, you have shown us the power of local technology and how
it has encouraged other service providers to continue serve and turn small, humble
beginnings to bigger and boundless opportunities.
Again, I am honored to be one with you in all of your endeavors. And to all those
dedicated unrecognized toilers responsible for the success of the MIMAROPA Stars,
my warmest congratulations!
HON. PAULINO SALVADOR C. LEACHON

Message from the 2nd District Representative, Oriental Mindoro
L
et me congratulate the men and women of the Department of Science and
Technology-MIMAROPA (DOST-MIMAROPA) and those who made possible the
publication of the third volume of MIMAROPA Stars. This is an excellent medium
for you to share to the public your milestones and outstanding performance while
serving our people.
I would like to commend everyone for the success stories of community-based
enterprises and various business firms from the region’s five island provinces —
Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan which
were supported by DOST through its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program
(SETUP) technology. This program has consistently encouraged and assisted SMEs,
our local entrepreneurs and business owners to adopt technology innovations to
improve their operations and boost their productivity and competitiveness.
As your public servant-leader from the Province of Oriental Mindoro, I am looking
forward to the day that Mindoreños are free from poverty, living in a progressive
environment with flourishing agribusiness and ecological tourism industries as primary
engines for growth. I believe we have so much potentials since our province is truly
blessed with rich and abundant natural resources and pool of talented people. And
DOST-MIMAROPA remains to be one of our strongest and dedicated partners as we
work towards the realization of our development vision. We are very grateful for their
assistance to our people who have benefitted and continue to benefit from community-
based economic enterprises and globally competitive education in the field of science
and technology.
May we always keep our shared vision of development and our commitment of
realizing our dreams for the people of Mindoro and the entire MIMAROPA Region.
Thank you and God bless!
HON. REYNALDO V. UMALI

Message from the Governor of Marinduque
O
ur warmest gratitude to the whole science community!
DOST-MIMAROPA continues to bring the latest innovations and technologies
to the countryside, reaching even far flung areas, especially here in our small
yet bountiful island, Marinduque. We believe Science, Technology, and Innovation plays
a vital role not only to the productivity of the community it is serving, but also to the
economic progress of Marinduque at large. With the DOST programs you provide us,
our people feel more inspired, confident, richer and of course, happier.
I applaud the publication of your new book, the MIMAROPA STARS Vol. 3. It is
a good reminder to everyone, that Science and Technology may go hand-in-hand
with passion and perseverance to reach success. The Provincial Government of
Marinduque along with our constituents are very grateful and rest assured that we will
give our full cooperation in your work of changing the lives of people through Science
and Technology. Our arms are open to more Science and Technology programs and
projects that is beneficial to the social communities in Marinduque.
Again, congratulations and I wish you luck in your future endeavors.
HON. CARMENCITA O. REYES

Message from the Lone District Representative, Marinduque
M
y warmest greetings to the diligent people behind the Department of Science
and Technology-MIMAROPA Stars.
Being in public service for more than a decade now is something I can
be proud of. Getting to know my constituents face to face, talking to them about their
needs, doing things to make them feel comfortable especially in times of calamity make
my job as a public servant very fulfilling.
Public service has never faced as stern a test as it does today. People are watching
our government and with challenge comes an opportunity. People want leaders who
stand up and work for them.
I hope that we will direct our energy, motivation and desire towards serving the
country. Let us be the leaders that we’ve always wanted to see in office. I always
remember the moment when I decided to go into public service. For me, it came
shortly after law school. I wanted to find a place where I can make a real and lasting
difference for my fellow Marinduquenos. I wouldn’t trade a day for the opportunities and
rewards that I have gained from serving them.
Our greatness as a nation depends on individual initiative, on a belief in the free
market and on mutual regard for each other. Everybody has a stake in this country and
in my view, there is fulfilment to be found in seeing our nation rise and gain recognition
for our genuine progress and development as one people.
Congratulations and best of luck to DOST-MIMAROPA Stars. May Volume 3 of the
Stars be as successful as the two other volumes.
Thank you very much.
HON. LORD ALLAN JAY Q. VELASCO

Message from the Governor of Romblon
I
t is my honor to commend the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in
coming up with the publication of the DOST MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3. This will
surely inspire our people to work hard for the socio economic development of our
province and the MIMAROPA Region as a whole through science and technology.
With the current situation we have right now that calls for specialization in all
fields of endeavors not to mention the high level of competition in almost all areas of
competencies, science and technology play a vital role in our quest for development.
The establishment of the Philippine Science High School in the MIMAROPA
Region in the Province of Romblon specifically in the premier town of Odiongan is a
milestone not only for Romblon Province but for the MIMAROPA Region which would
afford our youth adequate knowledge and competencies on technological and scientific
advancement. With the on set of the Philippine Science High School in the MIMAROPA
Region, this will enable our young citizenry be equipped with the necessary skills and
capabilities that will compete at par with the rest of the world.
With joined hands altogether we will surely succeed in all our endeavors and show
to the world that in MIMAROPA we have it all, YES WE CAN!
In the service of the people of Romblon, I remain.
HON. EDUARDO C. FIRMALO

Message from the Lone District Representative, Romblon
M
y warmest and personal greetings to the Department of Science and Technology
(DOST)-MIMAROPA Family!
STAR Volume 3 is worth sharing. The life-changing stories, among others,
featured in this publication would serve as an inspiration to the rest to aspire for a better
life. Thanks to the Department’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program
(SETUP)!
May we continue to work hand in hand and reach out, especially to those who are
in need of the services of DOST. Together, we can make a difference!
Congratulations on this endeavor and may God bless us all!
HON. EMMANUEL F. MADRONA

Message from the Governor of Palawan
O
n behalf of the Provincial Government of Palawan, I convey my warmest
greetings to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-MIMAROPA
Regional Office and to the readers of the MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3!
In the past years, DOST-MIMAROPA has been active in sharing the stories of
different firms and community-based enterprises who have achieved success in their
respective businesses through the use and adoption of knowledge that they acquired
through the programs of the DOST. These stories provide inspiration and hope to other
people, as it shows how science and technology can really change a person’s life for
the better.
As a new volume of the MIMAROPA Stars unfolds, it will yet again share how
effective use of science and technology may help people improve their livelihood and
quality of life. I commend DOST-MIMAROPA for continually reaching out to the people
to inform them of the new programs of their agency and how it may help all of them.
I extend my warmest congratulations to them for this issuance of this new volume of
MIMAROPA Stars and wish for them success in all of their future endeavours!
Again, congratulations and mabuhay!
HON. JOSE CH. ALVAREZ

Message from the 1st District Representative, Palawan
M
y warmest greetings to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)
IV-B (MIMAROPA) for the publication of MIMAROPA Stars Vol. 3, a compilation
of success stories of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and
community-based enterprises.
I am delighted that the DOST is helping our MSMEs and small businessmen achieve
success through science and technology. Forming 99% of registered businesses, they
deserve all the support and help of government in order for their enterprises to grow
and succeed. Even our more successful conglomerates started out as small businesses
themselves. As the saying goes, “The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying
away small stones”.
It is my fervent wish that the stories contained in MIMAROPA Stars Vol. 3 serve as
beacons of hope and become models to emulate for our budding entrepreneurs. I wish
all of them the success they truly deserve.
Again, my sincerest greetings to everyone.
Mabuhay!
HON. FRANZ JOSEF GEORGE E. ALVAREZ

Message from the 2nd District Representative, Palawan
W
arm greetings from South Palawan!
We congratulate the MIMAROPA Stars in the publication of this 3rd
volume. This magazine highlights the endeavors of the Department of Science
and Technology-MIMAROPA (DOST-MIMAROPA) in partnership with the different
stakeholders in promoting various enterprises in our region.
Now on its 3rd volume, we are happy to be part of this edition. Moreover, as we have
been elected as Deputy Speaker at the House of Representatives this 17th Congress,
we are all the more enthusiastic to partner with DOST-MIMAROPA in advancing different
opportunities that would help our constituents in the Second District of Palawan and
the entire MIMAROPA Region.
Again, congratulations DOST-MIMAROPA.
Matamang salamat at mabuhay po kayo.
HON. FREDERICK F. ABUEG

Message from the 3rd District Representative, Palawan
A
s it has always been told, the acquisition of right knowledge results to right
livelihood which acts as an agent of change for an individual, community and
country. The timely publication of MIMAROPA Stars Vol. 3 could be a source of
inspiration for budding entrepreneurs and business start-ups.
These days, the undersigned’s membership in the House of Representatives
particularly committees on Food Security and Small Businesses & Entrepreneurship
Development focuses our time and energy to craft a legislative measure that will hasten
the access to credit facilities for the availment of those in the margins of society.
This proposed measure would provide “friendly” lanes and extend help to those
who want to help themselves. As I have full faith in the persistence and perseverance
of our kabarangays, I always believe that government support through a streamlined
and simplified procedures is another w ay of recognizing the hardworking Filipinos who,
by wanting to mend for their lives, creates value for developing available materials and
talents as a result of an enterprise.
Needless to say, I bid everyone to keep the stories inspire more, reach furthermore.
It’s time to unleash the latent innate talents of everyone which I hope will translate into
greater enthusiasm and efficiency in your respective homes throughout MIMAROPA
as I await your own success stories in the next publication of MIMAROPA Stars Vol. 4.
HON. GIL P. ACOSTA

Table of Contents
Transitioning Business from a Small Store into an Enterprise
De Jesus Enterprises | Rizal, Occidental Mindoro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Coming Home and Giving Back
RichBlitz Sweets | San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Serving up a Year-Round of Icy Goodness to Occidental Mindoro’s Fishing Community
Jopson Aqua Livestock Integrated Resources, Inc. (JALIRI) | Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Savouring Success, Entering the Pungent World of Dhayo’s Bagoong and Patis
Dhayo’s Bagoong and Patis | Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Glossy and Rust-proof Style to Spiraling Success
Sarmiento’s Welding Shop | Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Persistence and Patience: The Keys to Success
Hatulan Engineering and Machine Shop | Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Pioneering Engine Reconditioning Services in Oriental Mindoro
Calapan Oriental Machine and Engineering Shop | Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Squeezing Success from Healthy Drinks
Brilliant Juice Manufacturing | Sta. Cruz, Marinduque . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Weaving Work, Motherhood, and a Bright Future: The Story of a Single-Mom Seamstress
Choscemkyn Garments | Mogpog, Marinduque . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Sweeping Changes in Soft Broom Production: Overcoming Challenges through Technology
Mary Help of Christians Parish-Batayang Pamayanang Kristiyano Association | Boac, Marinduque . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Shaping Up Success with Technology
Shapes Bakeshop | Odiongan, Romblon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
One Deft Move after Another
Ashley Bakeshop | Odiongan, Romblon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Laszaji’s Winning Recipe: SETUP combined with Mentoring
Laszaji Grill | Odiongan, Romblon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Tipping Point for the Business of a Cancer Survivor
Sam-Sammi Personal Care Products | Odiongan, Romblon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Health to Wealth
Adventist Health Products | Puerto Princesa City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Drinking to Success: Triumph with Turmeric and Ginger Tea
Arnel Agri-Based Products | Puerto Princesa City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Knowing the Ropes to Success: Sustaining the Abaca Fiber Industry through Innovation and Technology
Maharlika and Little Caramay Abaca Growers Association | Puerto Princesa City. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Empowering Women in Coastal Communities: A Fish Tale
Rural Improvement Club-Kapitbahayan sa Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran (RIC-KKK) | Puerto Princesa City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
“DOST SETUP is a big help to us. Our business
is now known, not only in our town, but all
throughout the province.”
– Severino and Ofelia De Jesus
Transitioning Business from
a Small Store into an Enterprise
DE JESUS ENTERPRISES | Rizal, Occidental Mindoro
Back in 2009, De Jesus Enterprises was just a small vulcanizing shop and a small store for motorcycle spare parts. Known then as De
Jesus Welding Shop, the firm did not have much income because only a few clients could be accommodated at a time. With limited tools and
equipment, De Jesus could only accept repair jobs for motorcycles and farm implements such as animal-drawn plow and harrow, and welding
jobs for trailers and hand tractors. With Severino De Jesus’ vulcanizing and welding skills, as well as Ofelia’s predilection for business, the
enterprise eventually prospered. Behind their success is a lot of hard work and focus on all aspects of the business to make sure they deliver
quality work.
“Sa pagnenegosyo, dapat may pokus sa lahat ng parte ng pagpapatakbo ng negosyo. Dito kami umaasa ng aming ikabubuhay, may
mga anak kaming pinapag-aral, may mga tao kaming dapat suwelduhan. Kailangang todo kayod kami at siguraduhing masaya ang aming
mga customer sa gawa namin [In a business, focus should be placed on every aspect of running the business. We depend on it for a living;
we have children we send to school; we have employees we need to pay. We need to work hard and make sure our customers are happy with
what we do],” said Ofelia De Jesus.
In 2012, the De Jesus couple decided to upgrade their existing facility and equipment through DOST-MIMAROPA’s SETUP. Through
the program, the couple acquired a lathe machine, heavy duty bench drill, heavy duty compressor, TIG welding equipment, and a power
hacksaw. These technologies allowed the firm to expand its services and cater to more customers. From simply offering repair services, the
firm can now fabricate farm implements and also supply other agricultural equipment.
From simply being a welding and vulcanizing shop, De Jesus Enterprises is now capable of competing with other metal fabricating shops
in San Jose and other adjacent municipalities.
Ofelia credits DOST for helping their business grow and says “Malaking tulong and DOST SETUP... ngayon po, kami ay kilala na, hindi
lang sa aming bayan, kundi sa buong Occidental Mindoro at iba pang lalawigan. [DOST SETUP is a big help to us. Our business is now
known, not only in our town, but all throughout Occidental Mindoro and also in other provinces].”
MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3 | 27

Coming Home and Giving Back
RICHBLITZ SWEETS | San Jose, Occidental Mindoro
S
truggle doesn’t always win over aspiration— Ernan Declito’s story proves that determination and hard work combined with the generosity
and support of other people to get started, can lead you to success.
Coming from a poor family, Ernan knew back then that pursuing college and his dreams were close to impossible since he has
seven other siblings. Ernan’s father was a construction worker while his mother was a housekeeper living in Iling Island in San Jose. One of
his elder sisters work At a very young age, he worked full time at different odd jobs here and there to provide for his family and save money
for school. He landed a job at RichBlitz Sweets at the age of 12.
“I started working with RichBlitz Sweets when I was 12 years old. My station was at the kitchen, washing dishes, pans, and pots. And
when there is a provincial trade fair and RichBlitz participates, I am the one who tends the booth,” he said.
A good sleep for him is 3 hours. He juggled a full-time job while schooling. He usually sleeps at 2 am and gets up at 4 am to get ready for
work. The schedule may seem ruthless to an ordinary student, but not to someone like Ernan who has life goals for himself and for his family.
RichBlitz Sweets offers a complete set of sweets and baked goods from cakes, tarts, macaroons, and pastillas. This is the home of
one of Occidental Mindoro’s most sought-after pasalubong, the cheesy cake. In 2008, Richblitz Sweets applied for technology assistance
from DOST-MIMAROPA through SETUP to improve their production process and packaging and labelling with the acquisition of baking
technologies such as oven with thermostat and kitchen aide mixer. In 2013, the firm again availed of SETUP assistance with an interest of
increasing the firm’s productivity more. Richblitz acquired a heavy-duty deck oven, horizontal continuous band sealer, temperature-controlled
cold storage rack, and dough mixer that helped them improve productivity and extend products’ shelf-life. Due to the increasing demand of
her products, the demand for labor also increased. From four workers, Richblitz now has 18 and Ernan is one of them and one of the most
loyal ones.
Ms. Grace Dinglasan, owner of Richblitz Sweets, is a big-hearted businesswoman who has been running her shop in Occidental Mindoro
for 17 years. Grace thought that having to go to work doesn’t have to dash Ernan’s dream of going to college. She said there were times Ernan
was hopeless, to a point where he almost gave up on studying but she encouraged him to better himself and helped him attain the college
education he always wanted to have. She recalled telling him, “Mag-aral kang mabuti, Ernan. Sayang ang galing mo. Maraming oportunidad
sa kakayanan at sipag kapag nakatapos ka. Tapusin mo ang HRM [Study well, Ernan. Your intelligence will be wasted. There will be many
opportunities for your abilities and determination when you graduate. Finish HRM].” Ernan became one of the scholars of RichBlitz Sweets.
Ernan never thought that RichBlitz Sweets will be the light at the end of the tunnel that will help him realize his dreams of getting a college
diploma. He was able to graduate Hotel and Restaurant Management at Occidental Mindoro State College in 2014. Soon after graduation, he
landed a job as an Assistant Chef in a Korean-inspired restaurant in Manila. However, despite his overwhelming career, Ernan went back to
San Jose and decided to remain a part of Richblitz Sweets for good.
28 | MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3

“I chose RB (RichBlitz) dahil dito ako nagsimula, nakilala, at dito ko natupad ang aking mga pangarap. Gusto ko pa din ma-improve ang
RB, lumago at makilala ito hindi lamang dito sa province or sa Pilipinas but also globally… Kung saan ka nagsimula dapat marunong ka
din lumingon at tumulong [I chose RB (RichBlitz) because this is where I started, became known, and this is where my dreams came true. I
still want to improve RB to thrive and become recognized not just across the province or in the Philippines, but also globally…Wherever you
started, you should also know how to look back and give a helping hand],” he said.
For 13 years, Ernan has watched the business grow from an enterprise that started out in a small kitchen to a production factory it has
today. Also, he has seen it from its humble market beginnings and has played a big part in its success. This young man went from washing
dishes, pans, and pots and tending booths during provincial trade fairs to becoming Marketing Supervisor at the age of 22.
Ernan is full of unwavering gratitude for Richblitz Sweets, most especially to Ms. Dinglasan who helped him bring his personal goals and
dreams to life.
“Nagpapasalamat ako sa RichBlitz dahil [I am thankful to RichBlitz because], first, it helped me finish my studies; second, it helped me
become a greater and more confident person; and third, it helped me develop my talent and skills, taught me to manage this business, time,
and how to communicate with people.”
“I am thankful to RichBlitz because, first, it helped me finish my studies; second, it helped me

become a greater and more confident person; and third, it helped me develop my talent and skills,
taught me to manage this business, time, and how to communicate with people.” – Ernan
MIMAROPA Declito
Stars Volume 3 | 29
“The technology [acquired through
SETUP] will help reduce ice block
production process by three to four hours...
Fishermen no longer source out ice outside
the province.” – Rodolfo Plopinio

Serving up a Year-Round of Icy Goodness to
Occidental Mindoro’s Fishing Community
JOPSON AQUA LIVESTOCK INTEGRATED RESOURCES, INC. (JALIRI) | Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro
M
ost of the fishermen in Occidental Mindoro need to transport their catch to markets outside the province particularly in Batangas,
Cavite, and Malabon before it spoil to earn a viable and reliable income for their families. In order to do so, ice is imperative for
transporting their commodities and keeping it fresh. There are available ice plants around Occidental Mindoro who can supply ice to
the fishermen. However, these plants also experience a shortage in supply of ice during the peak fishing period, which falls from November
to May, causing a decline of the freshness of fish for distribution which leads to an increase in post-harvest loss. This force the fishermen to
buy ice from Batangas City or worse stop their fishing activity due to ice shortage.
One of the ice plants that cater to the fishermen in Occidental Mindoro is the Jopson Aqua Livestock Integrated Resources, Inc. (JALIRI)
which was established 20 years ago. In the last three years, it has been creating a total of 450 ice blocks per day, from only 200 blocks,
serving small fishermen and traders in the northern part Occidental Mindoro. Before, the facility was run by diesel-powered generators, but
because diesel is expensive and costly to maintain, they were left with no choice but to shift to electricity provided by local utilities to cut the
overhead costs in the conventional ice block making process.
“JALIRI needs an appropriate technology that can produce ice in a shorter time,” Rodolfo Plopinio, the manager of JALIRI, expressed.
To resolve the problems concerning the expensive production costs of ice blocks and address the short supply of ice in Occidental Mindoro,
JALIRI applied for technological assistance through DOST-MIMAROPA’s SETUP. They found out about the water chillers—a technology
wherein pre-cooled water is poured into ice cans to produce ice blocks. The technology is able to cool fresh water from 45°C down to 4°C.
With the use of this technology, JALIRI can save resources because the production of ice blocks will be shorter. Energy savings from the
pre-cooling technology can result to almost 20% reduction in power consumption. Moreover, the technology can cut overhead cost by 15%
and it will justify as profit.
“This technology helps reduce ice block production process by three to four hours. Fishermen and other commercial establishments no
longer source out ice outside the province.” Mr. Plopinio adds.

Savouring Success, Entering the Pungent
World of Dhayo’s Bagoong and Patis
DHAYO’S BAGOONG AND PATIS | Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro
D
hayo’s Bagoong and Patis is a landmark that stands tall and proud along the Nautical Highway of Brgy. Teresita in Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro.
Behind the firm’s success is a couple who attained their dream through innovation and hard work.
Mrs. Imelda Lacay of Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro, fondly called Dha, started her fish paste (bagoong) project in 1995. While her husband,
Mr. Marcelo “Dayo” Lacay, was working overseas, she had a fish trade stint in Occidental Mindoro. In the three months that she stayed in Occidental
Mindoro, she would help her landlord mix and bottle fish paste and fish sauce (patis), after a day’s work of selling fish. This is when inspiration to
start her own bagoong project hit. A true-blooded business person, Dha seized the opportunity and went back to Mansalay. She started producing
three earthen jars of bagoong, which turned into 70 jars the next year.
For those 70 jars of bagoong, Dha recalls that she and her husband Dayo manually ground fish with a corn mill. With hard work, one jar could
be filled in two days. For storage, she had a concrete tank built, with three divisions and only cogon grass as the roof.
After a series of training on cGMP and process improvement from DTI and DOST, Dha meticulously implemented sanitation and safety
procedures in her production area. As part of the firm’s continuous improvement, Dhayo’s was also one of the beneficiaries of the Manufacturing
Productivity Extension Program (MPEX) in 2012 of DOST-MIMAROPA. At the time, despite the need for efficient grinding equipment, the firm was
reluctant to seek assistance from DOST because several things still needed to be improved.
In 2013, Dha sought SETUP assistance from DOST-MIMAROPA through PSTC Oriental Mindoro. The firm acquired one heavy duty grinder,
microbial and shelf-life analyses, and packaging and labeling assistance. The interventions allowed the firm to increase productivity and improve
the quality of the products, catering to its expanding market.
Establishing their product amidst the tight competition was one of the biggest challenges the firm faced. Dha personally handles the marketing
aspect of the business and understands the importance of their product’s packaging and labeling. Before consumers even get to taste the actual
product, they consider its presentation and display—two factors that play a vital role in a product’s marketability for they reel the customers in. After
the initial purchase, the taste is what retains the customers. One of their long-time customers asked the secret behind the consistent taste and smell
of Dhayo’s bagoong. Dha happily shared that it is the salt and fermentation technique altogether.
She laughingly recalls an experience back when she first introduced the product in the town of Roxas. Using a tricycle, she and her husband
roamed around town and offered free tastes and consignment agreements in exchange for just displaying Dhayo’s bagoong in their shops. One store
owner declined because they only wanted to display a more popular brand from Victoria. This made Dha work harder. She took it as a challenge
and pursued other opportunities towards improving her product. Now, the same store which refused to take Dhayo’s bagoong on a consignment

basis, only has Dha’s product displayed. The firm stands strong as the only
bagoong producer in the province.
She is thankful to the packaging and labeling assistance from DOST
for it brought her one step ahead of the competition. What makes Dhayo’s
Bagoong and Patis successfully sustain its customer base is the consistent
quality and clean processing facility, which from the outside, does not look
like a bagoong-patis production plant.
Aside from solid markets in the province, particularly in Roxas, Dhayo’s
Bagoong and Patis now supplies its products to markets in Kalibo, Aklan,
and Occidental Mindoro. The biggest surprise came when the firm delivered
502 containers to a merchant from Pangasinan.
Before intervention, Dha and Dayo’s production was limited to just once
“Many people here have good products but a week, and their workers’ earnings were irregular. Now, Dhayo’s operates
daily with 12 regular employees, all of whom are entitled to SSS benefits.
lack the facility and equipment. If they can Indirectly benefitting from the firm’s operations are its bottle suppliers. To
improve their business and they will need ensure a steady supply of bottles for the firm’s production needs, Dha gave
them capital.
new equipment or anything else related to The firm’s goals have not changed. It still aims to penetrate more market
technology, then DOST can help them.” segments and become a well-known bagoong and patis producer around
the country. Aside from this, it targets to hire more people in their area.
– Imelda Lacay To aspiring entrepreneurs and micro-enterprises with questions about
DOST’s services, Dha has simple advice. Even with a small capital, follow
the right processes and have the business registered. Consistency and the
determination to keep going is essential to success.
“Marami ‘yung may magagandang produkto dito sa atin pero kulang
sa pasilidad at gamit. Kung mapapaganda pa nila ang negosyo at
kakailanganin ng mga bagong equipment o iba pang pangangailangan
na may kaakibat na teknolohiya, eh, sakto… matutulungan sila ng DOST
[Many people here have good products but lack the facility and equipment.
If they can improve their business and they will need new equipment or
anything else related to technology, then DOST can help them],”she said.
Lastly, she shared another trade secret: Do not stop learning and
applying what you have learned. Know your market, your customers, and
your competitors.
Glossy and Rust-proof Style
to Spiraling Success
SARMIENTO’S WELDING SHOP | Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro
T
he Steel Industry is booming in Oriental Mindoro. For the past years, several businesses in the province that have ventured into
metalworking have had their successes and have certainly inspired a number of individuals. One of them is Mr. Sofio V. Sarmiento, the
owner of Sarmiento’s Welding Shop in Brgy. Tawiran, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro.
Ping, as he is fondly called by his friends and in the industry, started out as a welder and fabricator in different welding shops in San
Pablo City, Laguna and in Manila. Ping had always wanted to have his own business and did everything it takes to make it happen. When he
got tired from being an employee, and after developing his expertise in the field, he decided to pursue his passion. He started Sarmiento’s
Welding Shop in early 1994.
He is an expert in assembling and repairing jeepneys, owner-type jeeps, and stainless steel car accessories. With the high demand on
stainless steel-based products used for house construction such as grills, windows, spiral staircases, hand railings and the like, Ping decided
to take on the fabrication of such high-value products.
The early years of the business were tough, as he described it. Ping only worked with his revolving fund and decided not to borrow from
banks or financial institutions. He struggled financially especially when customers did not pay on time. His unpaid accounts, mostly from
suppliers, piled up.
Since stainless steel sheets were bent manually, shaping them was a time-consuming activity and they struggled to keep up with the
demand. The firm sourced-out metal sheets from other shops, entailing additional expenses for time and labor.
Ping was introduced to DOST’s SETUP by one of his customers. In 2013, he availed assistance and was granted with a box-type bending
machine and a capacity-building training to further develop the skills of his employees.
According to Mrs. Junalyn Sarmiento, Ping’s wife, the technology provided to them made them more efficient and productive. She
emphasized that because of the machines, they were able to produce better products at larger capacities. “Siguro kung wala ito, nakakagawa
man kami, hindi perfect at hindi makakagawa ng mas marami, mabilis, at sabay-sabay [If we didn’t have this, even if we’d be able to produce
products, it wouldn’t be perfect and we wouldn’t be capable of producing many products, faster, and simultaneously],” she said.
Mrs. Junalyn Sarmiento also believes in treating all workers like family members, making them feel motivated, involved, and engaged.
After seeking DOST assistance and realizing stability in their business, she considers her main challenge now to be keeping and maintaining
their valued workers. According to her, she manages her workers according to the art of bending—applying the right force when needed,
depending upon the final product that you want to achieve. Regular meetings and respect for the individuality of each worker keep them intact.

“If we didn’t have [DOST’s assistance], even if we’d be able to produce products, it wouldn’t be
perfect and we wouldn’t be capable of producing many products, faster, and simultaneously.”
– Sofio and Junalyn Sarmiento
On the other hand, Mr. Sarmiento’s goal is to reach the point where he is no longer doing manual labor. He would want his workers to
acquire the skills that he has, to learn to do things on their own, and for him to take care of the other business aspects.
Mrs. Sarmiento now manages the operation while Ping handles the technical parts. He emphasized that after seeking assistance, it is
important to follow the process and comply with what was asked of them. “The quality of products is important to attain and sustain while
retaining customers and one thing we never forget is how good customer service and relations give us the edge over our competitors. At the
end of the day, people remember good and bad experience, and it pays very well to be someone who does the good one,” they said.
To his fellow entrepreneurs, his advice was “be determined and focus on your goal”.
“Thanks to DOST’s help, inspecting for engine
defects has become easier. We can do our work
faster and we can finish more jobs.”
– Elik
36 | MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3 Hatulan
Persistence and Patience:
The Keys to Success
HATULAN ENGINEERING AND MACHINE SHOP | Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro
H
atulan Engineering and Machine shop was established in 1993 after Mr. Felixberto E. Hatulan, known as Elik, left his job as a shop
supervisor in one of the machine shops in Calapan City. At the beginning, the firm only had one lathe machine and one welding
machine, with him as the only worker. It was not until 2000 when the firm’s operations stabilized as its clients and work orders grew.
This allowed him to hire more people.
The firm first sought DOST-MIMAROPA’s assistance in 2013, through the MPEX Program. At the same time, it benefitted from an Energy
Audit from DOST-CALABARZON. In 2014, the firm sought to upgrade its operations. Through SETUP. The firm acquired an automated
diesel fuel injection pump test bench, which improved the whole reconditioning process in terms of duration and precision. Prior to DOST-
MIMAROPA’s assistance, the firm identified engine defects through manual inspection. The technology assistance allowed the firm to finish
more jobs within a given time, which in turn translated into higher income and more employment opportunities. The firm sought to further
enhance the promotion of its services through the mimaropaventures.ph platform, and in 2015, participated in a training on Digital Marketing
and E-business Workshop. In addition, the enterprise, in cooperation with DOST-MIRDC and DOST-MIMAROPA, conducted a Training on
Occupational Safety for its workers.
Hatulan said that the income and savings made after DOST’s intervention were used to put up his calibration center in Bry. Sta. Isabel,
Calapan City. He is very optimistic with the firm’s potential in calibration services. Aside from that, he put up a branch in Roxas town, southern
part of the province, to cater to the needs of the second district populace.
Elik believes that there is always a room for improvement for his business and the same goes with his people. His secret is simple:
patience and dedication, because he believes that help is always around, you just need to be at the right time and right place.

“Our business really grew, thanks in no small part to the assistances we received from DOST...
we have now opened a new branch in the municipality in Pinamalayan.” – Leovencio Bawasanta

Pioneering Engine Reconditioning Services
in Oriental Mindoro
CALAPAN ORIENTAL MACHINE AND ENGINEERING SHOP | Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro
O
ne of the pioneers of machining and engineering services in Oriental Mindoro is the Calapan Oriental Machine and Engineering (COME)
shop. It was established in May 17, 1971 by Mr. Anastacio L. Bawasanta with one unit apiece of lathe, welding, and drilling machines.
In 1995, his son, Engr. Leovencio M. Bawasanta, took over the business. The increasing demand for engine reconditioning
services of private and public vehicles in the province resulted to an increased number of customers and a wider market share.
DOST-MIMAROPA first assisted COME in 2012, with an Energy Audit that improved the firm’s competitiveness by identifying how it can
decrease energy consumption and, in turn, improve its processes. As a beneficiary of DOST-MIMAROPA’s MPEX Program in 2013, COME
realized the need to upgrade its reconditioning services. At the time, their crankshaft repair/reconditioning services were outsourced to shops
outside the province. In 2015, the firm availed of SETUP, and they acquired a crankshaft grinding machine through the program.
The technology allowed COME to offer new services, acquire additional income, and deliver its services faster. This resulted to another
branch being opened in Brgy. Marfrancisco, Pinamalayan. The firm remains confident that the technological intervention from DOST is
significant and very helpful in terms of its business operations. It plans to continuously acquire new technologies to ensure the delivery of
quality services to existing and new clients.
If there is one thing that the management never forgets, is to reward its employees’ hard work through intangible and other fringe
benefits. The firm makes sure that the workforce is given time to relax and unwind because at the end of the day, a happy employee is a
productive employee.

“I am lucky I found DOST.
My business flourished.”
40 | MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3 – Rustico Melendez
Squeezing Success from Healthy Drinks
BRILLIANT JUICE MANUFACTURING | Sta. Cruz, Marinduque
M
r. Rustico Melendez of Sta. Cruz, Marinduque, used to work as a cellar master aboard a cruise ship. In 2013, he decided to come back
to the Philippines and with much encouragement from the Department of Health, establish Brilliant Juice Manufacturing. Aspiring to
sell his products in various schools in the province, he approached the Department of Education in 2015, which advised him to seek
DOST-MIMAROPA’s assistance.
Through DOST-MIMAROPA, the firm acquired automated juice drink production equipment and improved their product’s packaging. Aside
from the innovation system support accorded through DOST’s SETUP, technology trainings on the improvement of juice drink production,
cGMP, and a seminar on Food Safety were conducted by DOST-MIMAROPA to further increase the firm’s productivity. In 2016, the firm
availed of MPEX and CAMPI productivity consultancies, enhancing its production processes and business operations.
The interventions upgraded the firm’s facility and enhanced its product quality, making it possible to penetrate different markets outside
the Sta. Cruz area, including primary and secondary schools in Boac, Mogpog, and Gasan. From the previous production capacity of 3,350
juice packs, earning about PhP 35,900.00 a month, the firm now produces 500% more, averaging PhP 62,000.00 monthly gross sales.
In June 2016, the firm was able to establish a new cGMP-compliant processing center. In addition, DOST-MIMAROPA has an initiative
underway to encourage companies like Brilliant Juice Manufacturing to seek FDA compliance. The initiative is to assist them to secure FDA
accreditation which will make them fully capable of competing with similar and more popular brands.

“Although sewing wasn’t the career I set out
for, working as a seamstress here has helped
me a lot with my children’s future. Since it is
only near our home, I do not have to spend
so much money for my fare; It helps me send
my child to school; and I am able to save up
moneyStars
42 | MIMAROPA little by 3little.” – Jocelyn Ola
Volume
Weaving Work, Motherhood, and a Bright Future:
The Story of a Single-Mom Seamstress
CHOSCEMKYN GARMENTS | Mogpog, Marinduque
R
aising a family is hard even with a partner, more so when done alone. For single parents like Mrs. Jocelyn Ola and Mrs. Florinda
Damayan, it is a challenge to raise their children while maintaining their job and keeping up with household chores. However, these
two single moms from Brgy. Sumangga, Mogpog, Marinduque have managed to do just that. Both are seamstresses at CHOCEMKYN
Garments, a manufacturer of school and office uniforms, athletic attire, gowns, and RTW products.
Since her husband left, Jocelyn has been raising her 8-year old daughter alone. She is a graduate of Bachelor of Secondary Education
major in Biology at Marinduque State College. However, she was not able to pursue a career in teaching. Instead, she has honed her
professional sewing skills through time.
Jocelyn has been working at CHOSCEMKYN Garments since 2016. She works hard every day to send her daughter to school, as she
wants her to learn, and thereby get a chance for a better life than the one bestowed upon her. Her compensation as a regular seamstress
allowed her to support her family and pay for her daughter’s education.
“Bagama’t hindi itong pananahi ang aking pinag-aralan, malaking tulong din po ang pagtatrabaho dito. Bukod po sa malapit sa bahay
namin, hindi na kailangan mamasahe, napag-aaral ko ang aking anak at nakakaipon din kahit pakonti-konti [Although sewing wasn’t the
career I set out for, working as a seamstress here has helped me a lot with my children’s future. Since it is only near our home, I do not have
to spend so much money for my fare; It helps me send my child to school; and I am able to save up money little by little],” she said.
Working for the firm has also helped Mrs. Florinda Damayan, 44 years old, send her two children to school and meet their needs. Nanay
Florinda has been a seamstress at CHOSCEMKYN Garments since 2011. She recalled how sewing has been instrumental in realizing her
children’s dream of a brighter future since she herself was not able to graduate high school.
“Dahil sa Chocemkyn Garments, nakapag papa-aral ako ng aking mga anak. [It is because of Chocemkyn Garments that I was able to
send my children to school],” said Florinda.
The amount she receives as a regular worker of the firm provides for the education of her children, Dave and Donna. Her son, Dave, is
now a sophomore in college, while Donna is already in senior high school.
CHOSCEMKYN Garments availed of DOST’s SETUP in 2014. Through the program’s innovation system support, the firm acquired
an embroidery machine and improved their garments production. With the technology, seamstresses like Jocelyn and Florinda are able to
produce more garments with better quality and intricate designs for their clients. CHOSCEMKYN more than doubled its production (114%
increase) of school and office uniforms, as well as embroidered items.

Sweeping Changes in Soft Broom
Production: Overcoming Challenges
through Technology
BATAYANG PAMAYANANG KRISTIYANO ASSOCIATION-MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS PARISH
Boac, Marinduque
I
t all started in 2013 when Mr. Rodrigo Masculino decided to establish the Batayang Pamayanang Kristiyano-Mary Help of Christians Parish
(BPK-MHCP). Starting with 40 members, the simple organization aimed to provide an alternative source of income for their families. Being
the sole producer of walis tambo (soft broom) in Marinduque, the business soon flourished and gained more connections that in 2016, it
was formally registered as an association. It now has a total of 111 members.
Due to the increasing demand for walis tambo in the province, the association thought of the need to seek assistance from different government
agencies to help them improve their production process and keep up with the demand, their search led them to DOST’s doorstep. In May 2016,
DOST-MIMAROPA, through SETUP Non-Core, provided assistance to the community-based enterprise for the acquisition of pollen grass removal
machine, tiger grass pollen grain remover, bleaching and dyeing vat, bleaching and dyeing tools, and a weighing scale. These technologies were
intended to increase the production of walis tambo, as well as improve their quality. In the same year, the association also took part in DOST-
MIMAROPA’s Mentoring Program, where cooperation among the members was improved, and new product designs were developed.
“Dati ay hindi ganap na nalilinis yung bunga ng tambo, sa pamamagitan ng Pollen Grass Removal Machine ay nalilinis siya ng maayos at
nasasaid. At mula noon, tumaas ng 200% ang production ng walis tambo [Before, we cannot completely remove the pollen flowers from the tiger
grass, but with the Pollen Grass Removal Machine pollen flowers are now thoroughly removed from the tiger grass. Since then, the production of
walis tambo increased by 200%],” said Mr. Rodrigo N. Masculino, President, BPK-MHCP Association.
Aside from having an average of PhP 2,000.00 additional income each month, the association’s broom weavers now produce more good
quality walis tambo in less the time; no longer consuming 2-3 days for the removal of pollen in tiger grass. With the pollen grass removal machine,
they can clean 200 bundles of tiger grass a day, at 25 bundles per hour. The business has since employed two farmers to operate the machines, and
at least 20 broom weavers. They have a total of seven outlets (stores and souvenir shops) in Gasan, Boac, and Mogpog. Indeed, the improvement
brought about by DOST’s technology interventions have helped their business thrive. Customers appreciate the quality and attractiveness of BPK-
MHCP’s soft brooms, as the result of innovation and creativity in production.

Mr. Masculino could not have been more satisfied with the assistance his group got from DOST. “Napakalaking tulong po ng DOST sa aming
negosyo ng paggawa ng tambo. Lumaki po ang aming produksyon, market outlet and kita ng bawat miyembro ng organisasyon. Pwede na po
nating ipagmalaki and ating ‘Tambo Ngani’ at makipagkumpentensya sa malalaking supplier ng tambo sa labas ng probinsya [DOST has been a
huge help in our business. We were able to increase our productivity, we were able to reach more market outlets, and the income of every member
of our organization also increased. We can now be proud of our ‘Tambo Ngani’],” he said.
“DOST has been a huge help

in our business. We were able
to increase our productivity,
we were able to reach more
market outlets, and the
income of every member of our
organization also increased.
We can now be proud of our
Tambo Ngani.”
– Rodrigo Masculino
“I am thankful to God, to DOST, and to all the people who have patronized us through the years...
now we Stars
46 | MIMAROPA can Volume
produce
3 more breads to distribute to this place and to other towns.” – Kim Fernandez
Shaping Up Success with Technology
SHAPES BAKESHOP | Odiongan, Romblon
S
hapes Bakeshop, formerly known as ACF Commercial, has been in existence for more than 30 years, making it one of the biggest and
the oldest bakeries in a town that continues to grow. The bakery’s roots stretch back to 1983, when Kim Fernandez’s family was still
engaged in trading and production of noodles and breads. They saw that the breads they produced contributed largely to their sales so
they decided to specialize in it. For years, the family stayed true to selling cheaper yet satisfying breads to its customers. One of the bakery’s
staples, popular with old and new customers alike, is their original, and one-of-a-kind bread variety, “Tipin”— a mouth-watering thin, round,
white, crisp of bread that is perfect for both hot and cold drinks.
Since their bread products cannot be found anywhere else in the country, Shapes Bakeshop ensures to make customers feel a fully
laid-back rural charm and have fond memories to reminisce through their bread products produced in a modern and innovative baking
environment.
“We want them to feel that every bite of our breads, it’s like home” said Kim.
Shapes Bakeshop gives credit for its success to its generations-old recipes, and to the access to technology made possible by
DOST’s SETUP.
The then ACF Commercial sought assistance in 2014 which included packaging and labeling materials to improve its product presentation
and dough mixer, stainless top table and shelves to improve its production efficiency. In 2017, they availed another assistance which amounted
to PhP 1.4M. The firm was able to acquire additional baking technologies including sheeter, two-door proofer, three-deck gas oven, and
cookie forming machine that allowed them to produce a higher quality of bread products and double her number of clients due to an increase
in productivity.
Now, Shapes Bakeshop has made history by successfully establishing the first two-storey bread factory in Romblon. The construction
of the building strictly conformed to the recommendations of the consultants provided by DOST under its CAMPI Program.
The bakeshop’s monthly sales increased by an average of 248% that grew from 166% average productivity and was also able to help in
providing job opportunities to the local residents in Romblon after the intervention. As a result of its increase in sales, Shapes Bakeshop has
been able to increase the salary of its committed workers.
After giving up her job as nurse in Dubai for more than five years, Kim, found her home and success in the province through Shapes
Bakeshop and DOST. Now, she gladly enthused, “Of course, first salamat pa rin kay God…and then sa inyo at sa mga tao na nagpa-
patronize sa amin through the years [I am thankful to God, to DOST, and to all the people who have patronized us through the years]. Now
we can produce more breads to distribute to this place and other towns.” With all these innovations through SETUP, Shapes Bakeshop
steadily satisfies the tastes and tummies of both its workers and customers.

One Deft Move after Another
ASHLEY BAKESHOP | Odiongan, Romblon
W
hat started out in a small rented space in a small town in 2004 where only three varieties of bread and simple cakes were sold, has
now blossomed into a three-storey bakeshop and restaurant in the busy streets of Odiongan – the university town in the province
of Romblon.
The success of Ashley Bakeshop was no cakewalk for its owner, Poren C. Lucas. He started as cakes decorator in Manila for five years
and eventually worked his way up to become the owner of his own bakery. In 1996, he went to Kuwait to further hone his skill as decorator
and learn hands-on about more techniques in decorating cakes from a commercial bakeshop there. During his stay in Kuwait, he observed
intently how the baking business was run and picked up everything he needed to know about the industry.
In 2004, Lucas met his would-be wife in Kuwait. Eventually, they got married, went back to the Philippines, and started their own family
in Looc, Romblon—this was when Poren knew he was ready to try something new. With a capital of only PhP 20,000, he started his bakery
business which he called “Ashley Bakeshop”. In the beginning, Ashley Bakeshop was located in a small rented space in the municipality and
only offered three kinds of breads and simple cake designs to its customers. As customers flocked to their shop, they produced more varieties
of bread products. Customers have come to love them and year after year, Ashley Bakeshop sees an increase in its sales. Soon enough, they
also established a snack bar in the same small rented stall where the husband and wife tandem now oversees 11 employees.
As the company grew and required more space, a decision was made to expand in a bigger municipality, Odiongan, as Looc could no
longer accommodate further expansion. Odiongan, more than 15km far from Looc is the largest municipality in Romblon. It is the province’s
municipal capital and has the biggest population and income. The owners, determined to make their mark in the industry, took a leap of faith
in 2012 and opened their first branch in Odiongan, which is three storeys big. People instantly took to liking the wide selection of bread and
other food products the bakery cum snack bar offers. Low-budget set meals were soon offered to cater to students and the “masa” whom they
consider as the mainstream market in the first-class municipality.
To face the challenges brought about by strong demand and fast expansion, the firm sought external assistance from DOST-MIMAROPA
through its program SETUP– a step that brought the firm inches closer to becoming the best bakeshop in the province. SETUP allowed the
firm to upgrade its production through the acquisition of modern bakery equipment such as a heavy-duty dough roller-cutter, oven, sheeter
machine and industrial cake and dough mixer. Coupled with consultancy services through the Manufacturing Productivity Extension Program
(MPEX), the firm’s operations greatly improved, and had its commissary in Looc transformed into a GMP-compliant workspace. Also, having
been a beneficiary of DOST-MIMAROPA’s Mentoring Program, they have been equipped with the right mindset in business to help them deal
with one of their biggest competitors (a fast food chain branch in Odiongan). The owners admit that seeking assistance from DOST was the
best move the they have done so far. The number of employees grew from a mere handful to 30 employees. This also enabled the firm to
increase its productivity by 207% because of increasing new and loyal customers. Now, Ashley bakeshop belongs to a multi-million enterprise
that could contend with even the toughest competition that would come into the province.

For Jona L. Mamburam, the niece of Poren and at the same time the manager of the two existing branches, the owner’s frugality,
determination, compassion, and passion have made their family business successful. “Halos 10 years na ako dito, dalaga pa ako no’n
at ngayon ay may asawa na ako pero humble pa din sila. Marami kaming natututunan sa kanila. Bawat araw kinakausap kami at may
orientation kung ano ang mga dapat gawin. Mabait sila sa amin, marami din silang natutulungan sa mga workers. Ako nga pinag-aral nila,
pati ang asawa ko ay tinuruan nila at kinuha din nilang empleyado. Dahil sa work namin ay nabubuhay ang aming pamilya, nakakasadya
kahit papaano. Nakabili din kami ng mga kailangan naming katulad ng motorsiklo pang service namin, nakakatulong din kami sa magulang
at higit sa lahat napapag aral ko ang mga kapatid ko [I’ve been working here for 10 years now, I was not married then and now that I already
have a husband, it’s still the same. They’re still humble. I learned so much from them. They talk to us every day, they orient us on what to do.
They are very kind to us and has helped a lot of workers. They sent me to school, they trained my husband and hired him. It is because of our
work here that we were able to support our family, we get by somehow. We were also able to buy some things that we need like a motorcycle,
for service. We were able to help our parents and most of all, I was able to support my siblings’ education],” she said.
“It is because of our work here that we were able

to support our family, we get by somehow. We were
also able to buy some things that we need like a
motorcycle, for service. We were able to help our
parents and most of all, I was able to support my
siblings’ education.” – MIMAROPA
Jona Mamburam
Stars Volume 3 | 49
SETUP combined with Mentoring:
Laszaji’s Winning Recipe
LASZAJI GRILL | Odiongan, Romblon
L
aszaji Grill is now one of the most popular restaurants in Romblon. Accredited by the provincial tourism department, it is highly recommended
for its quality service and appetizing food selections. The restaurant, however, had to go through a string of failures before tasting the success
it enjoys today. From being a barbecue (BBQ) business, to kumoan (super value meals), and then lechon (roast pig) seller, even becoming
a sari-sari store at one point.
“Five times siguro kami nagsara...hindi pa namin kilala ang DOST nun [We were forced to close down our business for about five times, we
don’t know yet about DOST then],” said Marc Ericson F. Fiedacan, Manager of Laszaji Grill.
In 2012, Mr. Fiedacan and his wife Glayneth decided to sell bagoong-alamang guisado (shrimp paste) and balitsaw (fish paste sauteed with
coconut milk), coming up with the brand name Glay’s Deli Food Products. With Glayneth’s fondness for bagoong-alamang guisado, the couple
started selling their product in small sachets and discovered that there was a high demand for it, where even late at night, they would be woken up
by people looking to buy their product.
Mr. Fiedacan decided to approach DOST-MIMAROPA in 2013 in a bid to improve their product and penetrate more market segments. The
firm was immediately granted packaging and labeling assistance. From sachets, their products were packaged into neatly sealed PET bottles with
attractive labels, increasing its shelf life and making it easier to transport. The improved packaging material and product label allowed them to
display their products in big groceries and sari-sari stores, eventually resulting to a surge in customers. Glay’s Deli Food Products now distributes in
the whole province, as well as in some parts of Manila, Lipa, Batangas, Cavite, Mindoro, and Quezon provinces.
The increase in demand led the owner to upgrade production through SETUP. The firm was provided with an Induction Sealer, Pneumatic
Coconut Presser, Coconut Grating Machine, Filling Machine, and Working Table. According to Mr. Fiedacan, these technologies have made
production faster and more efficient, reducing the time for extracting coconut milk and cooking each flavor of bagoong-alamang guisado. Before
intervention, it took more than four hours to extract milk from 30 coconuts and only 14kg of one flavor could be cooked at a time. One batch used
to take three hours to cook and two days would be needed to produce all six flavors. In a month, the firm could only supply 70 bottles of bagoong-
alamang guisado. Now, their workers can extract coconut milk in under an hour without exhausting themselves. All flavors can simultaneously be
cooked in less than an hour as well. The firm is now capable of producing and selling 300-500 bottles monthly.
Even employees have testified on how SETUP has greatly helped the firm. Ate Dhang is an on-call worker who worked in Glay’s for three years
before she became a regular employee. Recounting her experience, she says DOST’s assistance has made the preparation of bagoong-alamang
guisado less strenuous. The increased production of the firm has provided her a steady source of income, enough to let her purchase land and
build a home.

“It was during the Mentoring Program that we were able to think of ways to expose our products to
the market. This is why we started the restaurant. For us, this restaurant is the baby of the Mentoring
Program. Because the restaurant was born out of the mentorship in your program.” – Marc Fiedacan
In February 2015, DOST-MIMAROPA introduced its first Mentoring Program for MSMEs in Romblon. Knowing this, Glayneth and Marc Ericson
instantly joined the program to learn more about upgrading their business. They joined the program as humble dreamers, and left as bold visionaries.
The Mentoring Program answered several questions about handling a business and making it more competitive. Not only did the owners learn
about entrepreneurship, they also learned valuable life lessons.
“Pag mahina ang loob mo mahirap ka makaabante pero dahil nga mayroong Mentoring, nagkakaroon ka ng inspiration na ipagpatuloy ‘yung
pagnenegosyo mo, kahit marami ka pang mga pagsubok na dinadaanan [It will be hard for you to move forward if you’re weak-spirited but because
there is Mentoring, you have the inspiration to pursue your business, even if there are many challenge along the way],” said Marc Ericson.
Indeed, the owners are reaping a thousand-fold what they have sown for their business. To date, Laszaji Grill employs 10 food handlers, as
compared to the two workers it had before. It caters to more than 300 people a day and gained an average increase in productivity of 1,306%
from the restaurant, and 106% from the bagoong-alamang production—a significant improvement from the 37% productivity they had before
DOST’s intervention.
Marc Ericson credits DOST’s mentoring program for the success of Laszaji grill, saying, “‘Nung ngamementoring, saka kami nakapag-isip ng
paraan para maexpose sa tao ang produkto namin. Kaya ito nagpagawa kami ng restaurant…’yung restaurant kasi na to, tinuturing namin tong
anak ng Mentoring eh…kasi nga nabuo sya sa panahon na minimentor kami dun sa programa ninyo (DOST) [It was during the Mentoring Program
that we were able to think of ways to expose our products to the market. This is why we started the restaurant. For us, this restaurant is the baby of
the Mentoring Program. Because the restaurant was born out of the mentorship in your program].”
Tipping Point for the Business
of a Cancer Survivor
SAM-SAMMI PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS | Odiongan, Romblon
W
ith hopes and dreams of finding a cure for her cervical cancer, Ms. Meriam G. Santos, owner of Sam-Sammi Personal Care Products, used
research and literature to find out if she could develop something that could help ease her condition—something more natural and less
expensive. After thorough research, she was able to concoct an herbal tea out of luyang dilaw, banaba, ampalaya, sambong, gotu kola,
sibucao seeds, and ginseng. Her self-made tea made her feel better with her doctors attesting to her improvement and even called her story and
tea “amazing”, hence the name of the product “Amazing Tea”.
Meriam began giving free herbal teas to her neighbors to share the positive effects the tea had upon her life. After getting good feedbacks from
her neighbors on its effects, she decided to put up a start-up firm which was then located in Tanauan, Batangas. It was moved to Odiongan, Romblon
in 2008 after her husband was assigned to work at the province. She went back to square one but with a good product and a good market strategy,
it didn’t take her so long to gain good reputation and new set of customers again. According to Meriam, her business strategies are simple—produce
a good product, invest in samples, and rely on the word of mouth of those who felt good after drinking them. These made her business to grow.
The firm first requested for technology acquisition and packaging and labelling assistance to DOST-MIMAROPA through SETUP in 2009 but
was declined due to conflicts in the nature of their business registration and temporary status in Romblon. An initial grant, however, was indirectly
provided to the firm through the Odiongan Senior Citizens Association for the packaging of their herbal balm. It helped the business to become
stable and soon after, the family decided to make it their sole bread and butter. However, in 2013, DOST noticed that the tea product still needs
improvement with its packaging and labelling to cater to more buyers. Therefore, DOST provided the firm a packaging and labelling assistance in
the form of product labels. She became the most frequent user of the newly-established toll packaging center in Romblon. In 2015, the firm, which is
now a member of the group HIMO, availed of the form-fill-seal toll packaging services of the PSTC that had its products packaged in sachets. Now,
Amazing Tea has improved its flavor by adding stevia and coco sugar to its ingredients. It soon became a part of the Sulong Romblon Tea—three
different individually-wrapped herbal teas packaged in a small box made by Romblomanons and a favorite pasalubong to friends and loved ones.
The firm reached its tipping point when mimaropaventures.ph (a DOST-MIMAROPA developed online marketing portal for MSMEs), MSME
Mentoring Program, CAMPI Program, and SETUP came into the picture. CAMPI and the Mentoring Program helped them develop a technopreneurial
mindset as well as convert their manufacturing processes from a backward kitchen-type of operation to one that is GMP compliant. SETUP served
as the enabling mechanism for the conversion allowing the firm to acquire appropriate technology to greatly improve their production process. The
online marketing platform, mimaropaventures.ph, further enhanced the firm’s popularity that increased their products’ distributorship nationwide
and even in Malaysia by as much as a hundred distributors. After the interventions provided to the firm by DOST, their productivity grew from 30%
to 147%. They were also able to increase their employment from 5 to 13 workers. The firm recently acquired a five-hectare land planted to turmeric
and other raw material inputs and was able to establish a manufacturing plant that is GMP-compliant.
“Sipag at tiyaga at magdasal muna bago gumawa at huwag kalimutang tumulong sa may sakit dahil ito ay babalik din at syempre ang
malaking tulong sa akin ng DOST, lumaki at gumanda ang aking negosyo. Ang mentoring at saka ang pagpapadala ng mga CAMPI consultants
ang tumulong para maisaayos ang aking planta upang maging GMP compliant ito. Ganun din ang pagpro-promote ng aking product online sa
MIMAROPA Ventures. Grabe ang daming orders talaga sa akin kung saan-saan galing na tawag, kinukulang na nga kami minsan sa raw materials.
Kahit na sa Mindoro abot na namin sa pamimili ng luya, pero kulang pa din! Malaki’ng pasasalamat ko talaga sa DOST [My business grew
through hard work, prayers, helping others especially the sick and, of course, the assistance of DOST. The mentoring program and the productivity
consultants from CAMPI helped my production plant become GMP-compliant. Through the promotion of my product online in MIMAROPA Ventures,
I get orders from just about anywhere that sometimes we run out of raw materials. We even buy ginger as far as Mindoro, but it’s still not enough! I
am very thankful to DOST],” she said.
She also mentioned that another key to her success is her empathy for her workers. “Halos lahat ng workers ay natulungan ko. Importante sa
akin ang mga workers ko dahil kung wala sila ay wala din itong negosyo ko [I have helped almost all my workers. They are important to me because
without them, I won’t have this business].” Edelfred G. Fallarcuna is one of the loyal employees who work for Meriam. He started working for the firm
when he was 18 years old. He’s now 26 and still serves as the firm’s driver or plant worker during peak seasons. According to Edelfred, because
of the firm, he was able to help his family during his younger years and now that he has his own. He was also able to build his own house and buy
a motorcycle he uses as service vehicle. Eldelfred also mentioned that his brother is his co-worker at the firm which helped improve their family’s
living condition. For this cancer survivor turned technopreneur, the DOST interventions indeed proved to be the tipping point for her business.
“The mentoring program

and the productivity
consultants from CAMPI
helped my production
plant become GMP-
compliant. Through the
promotion of my product
online in MIMAROPA
Ventures, I get orders from
just about anywhere...
I am very thankful to
DOST.” – Meriam Santos
“The DOST program was able
to sustain the needs of Adventist
Health Products in terms of
finances, skills, knowledge, and
technology.” – Ellen Mae Velasco

Health to Wealth
ADVENTIST HEALTH PRODUCTS | Puerto Princesa City
T
he Seventh-day Adventist Church considers the human body as a divine creation, and to respect it is to lead a clean and healthy
life(style). Indeed, the schools and hospitals they operate in Puerto Princesa City gives particular emphasis on the food they serve to
both their employees and clients.
The food facility where Adventist Health Products are being processed was opened in 2004. Its raison d’être is to provide healthier
bread products that are different from those of other bakeries in the city by using whole wheat flour (Adventist Health Products is the first
producer of whole wheat bread in Palawan.) In succeeding years, additional products like soya milk and tofu were also offered to its clients
and employees. Eventually, the management opted to cater to the general public; however, their facility could not keep up with the increasing
demand due to lack of appropriate production equipment.
To realize their dream of providing healthy food products for every Palaweño family, Adventist Health Products rose to the challenge of
upgrading their production facility. In 2015, they approached DOST-MIMAROPA for the acquisition of new technology that would help them
increase their productivity. DOST’s SETUP allowed the firm to acquire an automated soya milk processor, vege-meat products processing
TG150, meat grinder, and a stainless-steel preparation table. In the same year, Adventist Health Products availed of the MPEX productivity
consultancy. The firm then availed of the CAMPI productivity consultancy in 2016. These programs enabled them to comply with current good
manufacturing practices, and helped them prepare the requirements for FDA accreditation.
“The DOST program was able to sustain the needs of Adventist Health Products in terms of finances, skills, knowledge, and technology”
said Ms. Ellen Mae Velasco, industry coordinator at Adventist Health Products.
The significant impact of the SETUP assistance was already seen in just 18 months. Before the intervention, the firm was earning an
average gross sale of PhP 753, 680.00 monthly. After the intervention, they are now averaging gross sales of PhP 1,347, 851.00 per month.
Their human resource employment also increased from 10 to 14 direct workers.

Drinking to Success:
Triumph with Turmeric and Ginger Tea
ARNEL AGRI-BASED PRODUCTS | Puerto Princesa City
M
rs. Azucena E. Gamutia is a resident of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, who, in 2012, decided to make business out of the crops that
she and her husband Arnel harvest (gotu kola, turmeric, ginger, and ashitaba, and malunggay). The couple’s firm, Arnel Agri-Based
Products, located in Wescom Road, Barangay San Miguel, primarily produces and sells functional food such as instant turmeric tea
and instant ginger tea (salabat), as well as hot native chili sauce and hot native chili powder (when chili supplies are adequate enough).
The firm aims to revolutionize traditional salabat and turmeric tea by infusing ginger and turmeric with other herbal plants such as
ashitaba, gotu kola, and moringa oleifera (locally known as malunggay), to make a delicious and affordable tea drink. Through Arnel Agri-
Based Products, Mrs. Gamutia dreams of providing livelihood to their community. Aside from this, she hopes their products become well
known in Palawan, and eventually, the whole country as well.
In 2015, DOST-MIMAROPA provided Arnel Agri-Based Products with assistance for the acquisition of new technology, namely ginger
processing technology, that will help increase the firm’s productivity. In preparation for the firm’s FDA Accreditation, Arnel Agri-Based Products
was also among the beneficiaries of the agency’s Manufacturing Productivity and Extension Program (MPEX), ensuring their firm is compliant
with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
Since DOST’s initial assistance, the firm’s market penetration has increased dramatically, with product distribution reaching places even
outside Palawan. The firm currently distributes their products to Coron, Manila, Quezon City, Cavite, Batangas, Laguna, Zambaoanga, and
Cebu. Moreover, some of the tourists that have sampled their products have become repeat customers.
One customer has made them particularly proud, motivating them to continuously improve the quality of their products. Mrs. Gamutia
recalls a phone call with a customer from Cebu, who inquired about their products, and eventually purchased 25 packs of Instant Turmeric
Tea. Upon asking for the customer’s details, she discovered she was talking to a famous actress and singer. She found out about the firm
because of their deliveries to Cebu, and through the recommendation of a friend. After the phone call, multiple orders made from phone calls
immediately came rushing from Cebu. Even now, Arnel Agri-based Products still receives orders from Cebu through phone calls.
The firm now also sells online via DOST-MIMAROPA’s e-commerce platform, mimaropaventures.ph, providing them another avenue to
promote their products and widen their customer base.
Before DOST MIMAROPA’s initial intervention, Arnel Agri-Based Products had a gross income of PhP 69,000.00 per month. Now, the
firm has five employees and is earning an average of PhP 149,740.00 per month.

When asked about the impact of DOST MIMAROPA’s assistance, Mrs.
Gamutia replied, “Truly DOST-MIMAROPA, through its SETUP Program,
made a great impact to our business. The increase in our production
because of the additional equipment and free technical consultancies
gave us an opportunity to increase our sales and to go further with our
dreams and expectations.”
“[The] SETUP Program made a great impact to

our business. The increase of production and free
technical consultancies gave us an opportunity to
increase our sales and to go further with our dreams
and expectations.” – Azucena Gamutia MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3 | 57
“There is money in abaca.” – Ruel Gabo

Knowing the Ropes to Success:
Sustaining the Abaca Fiber Industry through
Innovation and Technology
MAHARLIKA AND LITTLE CARAMAY ABACA GROWERS ASSOCIATION | Roxas, Palawan
The abaca fiber, known around the globe as “Manila Hemp,” is recognized as the strongest among natural fibers, according to the
Department of Agriculture Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI). This fiber is used as raw material for cordage, fiber crafts, and pulp to
produce specialty paper, tea bags, meat casings, disposable medical gowns and masks, and cigarette paper, among others. According to the
Fiber Industry Development Authority (FIDA), the Philippines is the top producer of abaca, supplying 85% of the world’s requirement.
The Maharlika and Little Caramay Abaca Grower’s Association (MLAGA) is composed of fifty-seven (57) farmers from So. Maharlika
and So. Little Caramay in Brgy. Magara, Roxas, Palawan. Formed in 2012 by the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority-Palawan
(PhilFIDA-Palawan), it is one of the first abaca-processing associations in Palawan. For the business, the association maintains 250 hectares
of abaca plantation.
In 2014, PhilFIDA-Palawan approached DOST-MIMAROPA, through PSTC Palawan, for the acquisition of abaca fiber stripping technology.
Before receiving the abaca stripping technology, the association manually extracted fibers, which involved passing dried abaca sheaths
through a makeshift stripper made of bamboo. Abaca stripping, if done manually, is time consuming and inefficient. Even with numerous
workers, the process yields lower quantities of abaca fiber - averaging 5kg a day and selling for a low price due to the lower quality of abaca
fiber. The firm was unable to earn even just PhP 500.00 a month because their livelihood heavily depended on farming root crops and
banana, leaving little time to allot for abaca stripping.
After DOST-MIMAROPA’s assistance, the firm has greatly increased its productivity. With the abaca stripping machine, the firm buys dried
abaca sheaths from their member farmers and produces an average of 36 kilos per day, which only requires one or two machine operators.
This gives them average monthly sales of PhP 34,000.00. Moreover, through the assistance, the firm was able to take on three (3) direct
employees and indirectly benefitted 20-30 farmers who supply them raw abaca for stripping.
Mr. Ruel Gabo, the association’s president, even mentioned, “May pera sa abaca. Hindi lang nakikita ng iba pero sa isang ektarya ng
tanim na abaca, pwede kang kumita ng PhP 50,000.00 kada buwan [There is money in abaca. Other people just don’t see it but in one
hectare of abaca, you can earn PhP 50,000.00 every month].”
Presently, the firm continues to extract abaca fibers and supplies the Millenium Abaca and Copra Buying Station – the largest abaca
buyer in Palawan which is situated in Brooke’s Point. However, MLAGA still cannot fulfill their needed volume. Hence, they are preparing an
additional 50 hectares of abaca plantation to further increase their production volume.
Empowering Women in Coastal
Communities: A Fish Tale
RURAL IMPROVEMENT CLUB-KAPITBAHAYAN SA KABUHAYAN AT KAUNLARAN (RIC-KKK)
Puerto Princesa City
“Dahil sa proyekto kasama ang DOST, nagkaroon kami ng kabuhayan...napa-ayos at napaganda namin ang aming mga bahay at
napapag-aral namin ang aming mga anak [Because of the project with DOST, we acquired a livelihood… We were able to fix our houses
and make them more presentable; and we were able to send our children to school],” remarked Antonette P. Herdiles, the President of Rural
Improvement Club-Kapitbahayan sa Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran (RIC-KKK), an award-winning community-based enterprise behind one of the
sought after pasalubongs from Palawan, the lamayó (semi-dried fish).
RIC-KKK is an association of housewives of fisher folks from Brgy. Tagburos, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. It was formed in 2012 by
the Institute of Decentralization and Community Organization (IDCO) to create a community that will support housewives by providing them
a source of livelihood while maintaining their respective households.
RIC-KKK is known for producing the best quality danggit lamayó, a delicacy that originated in Palawan. Lamayó is the process of
marinating fishes in mildly-salted and spiced vinegar then semi-drying the product under the sun. Semi-drying takes 1-2 hours of sun-drying,
as compared to full drying, which can take one whole day. It can be done to practically any kind of fish (e.g milkfish (bangus), goby (biya),
and surgeon fish (labahita)). However, RIC-KKK chose to specialize on processing rabbit fish or what is locally known as danggit.
The Tagburos Lamayo Processing Center is where all the magic happens. Every Wednesdays and Fridays, the members gather to
prepare the raw materials, sorting, brushing, salting, and then washing the fish, before marinating it for 1-2 hours. Afterwards, wet lamayó will
be vacuum packed and then frozen, while danggit lamayó will first be dried for 1-2 hours inside the processing center. They had no freezers
and refrigerators when they started operation in 2013. As a result, their product’s shelf life was shorter making it a struggle for them to bring it
to the market. It was then that IDCO sought assistance from the DOST-MIMAROPA to improve the enterprise’s production process and make
it compliant to food safety standards.
Through the DOST’s assistance, the firm acquired the appropriate technology—vacuum sealer, stainless steel preparation table, freezer,
and refrigerator that would address gaps in current good manufacturing practices compliance, as well as product shelf life enhancement.
Through the intervention, their sales went up from PhP 12,500 per month to PhP 38,750.00. Production also further improved from 50
kilos per month to 155 kilos per month as a result of the technology upgrading. These can be translated to a 310% increase in both sales
and production.

Now, the processing of lamayó has been the source of income
of 20 housewife-members of the association. Aside from trading
firms, hotels, pension houses, and government offices in Puerto
Princesa, Palawan, RIC-KKK’s danggit lamayó is now being
patronized in Manila and Taiwan as well.
In 2016, RIC-KKK won the 3rd place in the Best Technopreneur
Awards under the Non-core Category- an award annually given by
DOST-MIMAROPA to the best SETUP Adopters in the region.
“Because of the project with DOST, we acquired a

livelihood… We were able to fix our houses and make
them more presentable; and we were able to send
our children to school.” – Antonette Herdiles
List of Acronyms
CALABARZON Region comprised of the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon
CAMPI Consultancy for Agricultural and Manufacturing Productivity Improvement Program
cGMP current Good Manufacturing Practices
DOST Department of Science and Technology
DTI Department of Trade and Industry
FDA Food and Drug Administration
GIA Grants-in-Aid
IDCO Institute of Decentralization and Community Organization
MIMAROPA Region comprosed of the provinces of Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan
MPEX Manufacturing Productivity Extension Program
MSME Micro-, Small-, and Medium-scale Enterprises
PhilFIDA Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority
SETUP Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program
SSS Social Security Services
MIMAROPA STARS Vol. 3
Editor Ma. Josefina P. Abilay
Contributors Occidental Mindoro

Maria Ethelwilda G. Coronacion
Antonio T. delos Santos, Jr.
Oriental Mindoro
Jesse M. Pine
Djonna Gay I. Albufera
Marinduque
Bernardo T. Caringal
Eleazar P. Manaog
Romblon
Marcelina V. Servañez
Mae Angelica F. Fabito
Palawan
Pacifico T. Sariego III
Phyllicia Anne M. Baguyo
Cover and Layout Design Cyd Francis D. Recidoro
Printing and Circulation Bobby C. Matira

Cyd Francis D. Recidoro
Athena Colline L. Verdey
DOST-MIMAROPA Directory
DOST-MIMAROPA Regional Office DR. MA. JOSEFINA P. ABILAY

Regional Director
JERRY B. MERCADO BOBBY C. MATIRA
Supervising Science Research Specialist Chief Administrative Officer
Officer-in-Charge, Technical Services Division
4th Floor DOST-PTRI Building, Gen. Santos Ave., Bicutan, Taguig City, Metro Manila
Tel. no. (02) 837-2071 loc. 2092 / 2093 | Telefax no. (02) 837-3755
e-Mail: mimaropa.dost4b@gmail.com | website: region4b.dost.gov.ph
PSTC-Occidental Mindoro MARIA ETHELWILDA G. CORONACION
Provincial S&T Director
Honrado “Ding” Lara Memorial Health Center, Lopez Jaena St., Brgy. 6, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro
Telefax no. (043) 457-0796 | e-Mail: dost_occmdo@yahoo.com
PSTC-Oriental Mindoro JESSE M. PINE
2nd Floor HM Center Building, J.P. Rizal St., Brgy. Camilmil, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro
Telefax no. (043) 288-8791 | e-Mail: dost.ormindoro@gmail.com
PSTC-Marinduque BERNARDO T. CARINGAL
PEO Capitol Compound, Brgy. Bangbangalon, Boac, Marinduque
Telefax no. (042) 311-1359 | e-Mail: dostmarinduque@gmail.com
PSTC-Romblon MARCELINA V. SERVAÑEZ
PSTC Building, Brgy. Tabing-dagat, Odiongan, Romblon
Telefax no. (042) 567-5218 | e-Mail: dostpstcromblon@gmail.com
PSTC-Palawan ENGR. PACIFICO T. SARIEGO III
PSTC Building, Brgy. Sta. Monica, Puerto Princesa City
Telefax no. (048) 433-0489 | e-Mail: dostpalawan@gmail.com

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MIMAROPA Oriental

edited by Ma. Josefina P. Abilay

H.E. RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE

HON. PAOLO BENIGNO A. AQUINO IV

HON. ERICO ARISTOTLE C. AUMENTADO

DR. MA. JOSEFINA P. ABILAY

HON. MARIO GENE J. MENDIOLA

HON. JOSEPHINE Y. RAMIREZ-SATO

HON. ALFONSO V. UMALI, JR.

HON. PAULINO SALVADOR C. LEACHON

HON. REYNALDO V. UMALI

HON. CARMENCITA O. REYES

HON. LORD ALLAN JAY Q. VELASCO

HON. EDUARDO C. FIRMALO

HON. EMMANUEL F. MADRONA

HON. JOSE CH. ALVAREZ

HON. FRANZ JOSEF GEORGE E. ALVAREZ

HON. FREDERICK F. ABUEG

HON. GIL P. ACOSTA

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“I am thankful to RichBlitz because, first, it helped me finish my studies; second, it helped me

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MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3 | 31

32 | MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3

34 | MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3

MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3 | 37

38 | MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3

MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3 | 39

MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3 | 41

MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3 | 43

44 | MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3

“DOST has been a huge help

MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3 | 47

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“It is because of our work here that we were able

50 | MIMAROPA Stars Volume 3

“The mentoring program

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“[The] SETUP Program made a great impact to

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“Because of the project with DOST, we acquired a

Contributors Occidental Mindoro

Cover and Layout Design Cyd Francis D. Recidoro

Printing and Circulation Bobby C. Matira

DOST-MIMAROPA Regional Office DR. MA. JOSEFINA P. ABILAY

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