Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI) successfully hosted its 41st Grants Roundtable (GRT) on May 24, 2024, at GT Tower International, Ayala Avenue in Makati City, focusing on enhancing local enterprises’ productivity and resilience while promoting inclusive growth. Through the event themed “Engaging Networks for the Generation and Advanced Growth of Enterprises” (E.N.G.A.G.E.), MBFI aimed to foster collaboration and share best practices among partners to drive development aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Key challenges facing Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines, such as financial literacy and digital adaptation, were highlighted by Corona Olivia Rivera, division chief of Area 1 of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) National Capital Region Office. She emphasized the role of DTI’s Negosyo Center, in bridging gaps in financial, technological, and market access, stating, “The challenges faced by the MSMEs are multifaceted, but with the right support and resources, we can empower these enterprises to thrive and contribute to economic growth.”
Projects showcased during the event demonstrated tangible impacts on communities. Mary Joyce Gaviola, program manager of East-West Seed Foundation, discussed the success of the “Gulayamanan” project, noting, “The participants experienced a significant increase in knowledge and skills, which led to high harvest consumption and improved sales. Despite the challenges brought by the El Niño phenomenon, the community’s resilience and commitment were commendable.”
Czarina Gragera, officer-in-charge for operations and program manager of Community Crafts Association of the Philippines (CCAP), highlighted the positive outcomes of the “Developing Community-Based Enterprise for Grassroots Women Weavers in Aklan” project. She mentioned, “This initiative successfully increased daily wages and improved financial management and market access for the beneficiaries.”
Emma Concepcion Negros, field manager of Good Neighbors International Philippines, shared insights from the “Livelihood Access for Marginalized and Unemployed Women in Bohol” project, stating, “Empowering women economically has significantly enhanced their confidence and skills. The project’s success lies in the active participation and ownership demonstrated by the beneficiaries, which we consider our partners.”
The event also featured an exhibit showcasing products from livelihood partner beneficiaries. Philip Francisco Dy, MBFI’s executive vice president, facilitated a workshop on the elements of implementing successful livelihood interventions where he stressed the importance of capacity-building in financial literacy, technical training, and market awareness, as well as the need to future-proof interventions to ensure sustainability.
Dy also expressed pride in the foundation’s partnerships and reiterated MBFI’s commitment to supporting impactful projects that uplift communities through open dialogues with partner institutions and supported local enterprises to ensure that projects stay on track and continually improve toward achieving its objective of uplifting lives.
“Many people are unaware that MBFI has a grants program. Through this program, we partner with amazing organizations to bring impactful projects to life. We are hopeful that opportunities like these, where we share knowledge and support each other, will help us find more advocates and uplift more lives. Knowledge empowers us to improve our work, gain confidence, and draw inspiration. Together, we can face challenges and implement new interventions for the betterment of our communities,” Dy stated.
The success of the projects presented at the GRT showcases the strengths of community-based interventions supported by MBFI. These projects not only address immediate livelihood needs but also long-term capacities for self-reliance and sustainable growth. As MBFI continues to support various organizations, the Foundation remains committed to embodying our “Heart to Serve” in making a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable communities across the Philippines.