Thelma S. Sigue, Chairperson of the Wilson Agra Multi-Purpose Cooperative (WAMPCO) in the Province of Dinagat Islands is positive of  San Jose’s emerging tourism industry. With its gift of nature, she is confident that more tourists will come when infrastructures are established.

Having the entrepreneurial character of seeing through the opportunity, and with only the presence of carenderias and eateries in the municipality, WAMPCO found it viable to put up an alternative restaurant that would serve as a comfortable and cozy stopover for important guests and tourists wanting to enjoy good food.  Fund sourcing was then in the coop’s meeting agenda.

It was fortunate that the consultation for BuB project funding came at the right time. Through the collaborative efforts of the cooperative, DTI-Povince of Dinagat Islands ( PDI) and LGU San Jose, the PHP 1.0 Million  project proposal was approved for Mabuhay Dinagat Restaurant and Catering Services business.  The fund is intended for its operating capital, capability enhancement, utensils and other equipment.  Showing confidence on the viability of the chosen business, WAMPCO matched BUB fund with its PHP 1.7 Million counterpart to construct the building for its restaurant business.  

Since its launching in October 2015, Mabuhay Dinagat Restaurant is now considered a go-to destination for locals wanting to treat their guests.   It has employed 5 regular workers with 20 on call servers when there are bookings for its catering services.  Sales is doing good from walk-in, orders and catering services. 

With the support provided by the LGU of San Jose and the DTI, the cooperative is slowly working on their vision of helping the tourism industry of Dinagat Islands. WAMPCO also received assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment ( DOLE).

Organized in 1996, the cooperative started with of 15 members.  Today, it has grown to 600 members. WAMPCO hopes to get past the 1,000-member mark.