Initiative to empower women entrepreneurs launched in Quezon City

MANILA, Philippines — The Quezon City government, in partnership with SPARK! (Samahan ng mga Pilipina para sa Reporma at Kaunlaran) Philippines, recently launched “The KITA Initiative” to further empower women entrepreneurs and recognize their significant contribution to the economy. 
 
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte graced the launching at the Stonehouse Hotel and also served as one of the guest speakers, alongside SPARK! Philippines Executive Director Maica Teves and Havas Ortega Executive Creative Director Angie Tijam-Tohid. 
 
“With the launch of ‘The KITA Initiative’, we are once again putting our fellow women at the heart of our goal to create a truly prosperous, fair and just society,” Belmonte said. 
 
The mayor also reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to fostering an environment where women entrepreneurs have a chance to succeed. 
 
“This project can be a powerful tool for transformation for women-led microenterprises with the creation of a more inclusive ecosystem for female entrepreneurs,” she added. 
 
The initiative’s pilot project focuses on transforming the signage of sari-sari stores in the Kamuning area, which are mainly managed by women. By redesigning their signs with the KITA font, the project seeks to enhance their visibility and gain greater recognition for their contributions to the local economy. 

Sari-sari stores in Kamuning display its redesigned signage using the KITA font, symbolizing enhanced visibility for women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as part of The KITA Initiative.
 
“We must become advocates for ourselves, for our sisters, our daughters, and for every Filipina who dreams of a more equitable future. The path forward is clear: strategic collaboration and unwavering solidarity. This project puts the spotlight on sari-sari store owners, bringing their businesses into focus,” Teves said.   

“It is only the beginning of ‘The KITA Initiative’. Our vision is to bring together more collaborators: women entrepreneurs, established and emerging brands, allies, and advocates. By joining forces, we can provide the mentorship, resources, networks, and funding that will empower these women to grow their businesses and realize their full potential,” Tijam-Tohid said. 

Aside from Kamuning, the KITA Initiative will also be implemented in more areas in Quezon City and other parts of the country.

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