Creation of barangay-based businesses pushed

MANILA, Philippines - Micro-entrepreneurs are pushing for the creation of barangay-based businesses to uplift the economy and lessen generate jobs for thousands of Filipinos.

Ang Kasangga sa Kaunlaran Inc. (Ang Kasangga) spokesperson Lito Trinidad, said providing business assistance to barangays would also help lessen poverty in the country.

“Today’s new heroes are micro-entrepreneurs who enliven the country’s commerce and industry. Like overseas Filipino workers, they bring money to the economy,” Trinidad said.

Visually Impaired Brotherhood for Excellent Services (VIBES) president Dante Tioson thanked Ang Kasangga for its micro-lending program.

VIBES now has over 40 massage clinics nationwide where its more than 500 members and their dependents work.

“Like our friends from VIBES, Filipino micro-entrepreneurs deserve not only our commendation but also our continued support to allow them to continue the role they play in enlivening the country’s economy,” Trinidad said.

Ang Kasangga has received support from various organizations from micro-entrepreneurs for its bid for sectoral representation in Congress.

These are the Murphy Public Vendors and Retailers Association Inc., Novaliches Deparo Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association in Quezon City, Rizal Park Vendors Association, Silang Transport Service and Development Cooperative, Silang Market Vendors Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Guimaras Food Services and Caterers Association, Gultley Women’s Association in La Trinidad, Benguet; Plaridel Federated SEA-K Association in Misamis Occidental, Cooperative for Senior Citizen Development Cooperative in Albay, and Pedicab for Cabusao Trisikad Business Association in Camarines Sur.

They are set to formally support Ang Kasangga in a ceremonial signing of a “Manifesto of Unity, Commitment and Support” at 11 a.m. today at Best Western Astor Hotel, Makati City.

“We believe that the cause and advocacy of Ang Kasangga will be better propagated and spread if the marginalized sector of micro-entrepreneurs it represents will be given a chance to participate in law-making,” Trinidad said.