A group of homemakers in Brgy. Paiisa, Tiaong, Quezon have blossomed into confident entrepreneurs, proving that sustainable livelihood begins with empowerment and training.
The Paiisa Rural Improvement Club (RIC), an association of women primarily homemakers, dreamed of creating opportunities beyond their homes. With the support of Southern Luzon State University (SLSU) – Tiaong Campus, in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Tiaong, Quezon
They became key beneficiaries of the SLSU extension program, “Kabute at Pukyutan: A Livelihood Program for Farmer’s Association in Tiaong.” This was not just a simple training, it was a comprehensive journey into entrepreneurship.
SLSU equipped them with the valuable knowledge and technical skills including hands-on training in mushroom cultivation and production; lessons in value addition, product processing, and effective packaging; as well as market readiness with marketing developing linkages to ensure sustainability.
From knowledge sprang action. After a series of training sessions, Paiisa RIC began supplying fresh mushrooms within their community. With their initial success, they are now innovating further, developing and testing new products such as mushroom patties and mushroom lumpiang shanghai to expand their market.
The true harvest, however, was empowerment. For the members, the program planted seeds of self-belief that grew alongside their mushrooms. Ms. Elampara, a member of the association, shared: “Mula po [sa] inyong pag-encourage sa amin, nagkaroon po kami ng lakas ng loob na ilabas ang aming mga kakayahan” (Because of your encouragement, we found the courage to show our capabilities). She continued, “Naunawaan na kami ay hindi lamang pangbahay. Kami po ay nagsisikap na patuloy naming pag-iingat sa inyong ipinagkatiwala sa amin” (We came to understand that we are more than just homemakers. We are doing our best to safeguard what you have entrusted to us).
This powerful statement captures the core of SLSU’s extension goal: to strengthen inclusive, community-responsive extension services.
Today, the women of Paiisa RIC are not just suppliers, they are business owners, community role models, and active contributors to local food security. Their journey from homemakers to entrepreneurs showcases how SLSU’s commitment to community extension creates waves of positive change, empowering individuals and strengthening communities.
SLSU is proud to cultivate not just crops, but to empower people and ensure sustainable futures.
Write-up and layout by: JDMerjudio