A group of community members or participants pose for a photo under a temporary shelter. The setting suggests an outdoor gathering or activity, possibly a workshop, outreach program, or community event.

Paete, Laguna — The Department of Trade and Industry – Laguna Provincial Office (DTI-Laguna), through its Negosyo Center Paete, hosted a seminar about financial literacy on March 7, 2025, for potential women micro, small, and medium enterprises in Paete, Laguna.

The event was organized in partnership with the College of Human Ecology, Institute of Human Nutrition and Food of the University of the Philippines – Los Baños, Special Livelihood Office of the Office of the Provincial Government of Laguna, and Barangay Maytoong of Paete, Laguna. With a focus on women entrepreneurs, this seminar aimed to highlight the crucial role of financial management in both household and business budgeting, emphasizing how women, especially mothers, often serve as the backbone of budgeting decisions in families.

The seminar provided a comprehensive approach to financial literacy, covering essential topics like budgeting, cash flow management, and financial planning. These skills are vital for women looking to expand or start their own businesses, and the training helped equip attendees with the knowledge needed to manage both their household finances and business operations effectively. The session also served as an empowering platform for women to take charge of their financial futures, reinforcing the idea that women play a key role in economic growth, both at home and in the marketplace.

Adding a creative touch to the event, the Special Livelihood Office conducted a candle making demonstration, offering a hands-on learning experience for the attendees. This practical activity introduced an innovative livelihood opportunity that women could pursue, whether as a side business or a full-fledged enterprise. The Special Livelihood Office also endorsed candle making kits to the attendees, ensuring they had the tools to start their own ventures immediately. This demonstration underscored the importance of providing accessible, low-cost business ideas that could easily be incorporated into the women’s entrepreneurial journeys.

Participants and organizers at an outdoor event, possibly a graduation or awarding ceremony, posing for a photo under a tent. A presentation screen in the background suggests a formal event.
Community members are gathered indoors, possibly for a meeting, workshop, or information session. The setting suggests a casual or community-oriented event.
A community event or workshop, possibly related to "Disaster Risk Reduction" (as suggested by the sign), is being held outdoors under a tent. Presenters are using a screen to display information to the attendees.

Through this initiative, the DTI-Laguna and its partners aim to inspire and empower women in Paete by providing them with the skills, resources, and support to succeed as entrepreneurs. By linking financial literacy with practical business opportunities like candle making, the seminar sought to bridge the gap between education and action, encouraging women to use their newfound knowledge to create businesses that contribute to their families’ well-being and the local economy. This event was a powerful reminder of the invaluable contributions of women in both the household and business spheres, particularly in celebrating the spirit of Women’s Month (JCMDrueco, DTI-Laguna). ♦

Date of Release: 03 April 2025