Aiming to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills to transform innovative ideas into thriving ventures, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), in partnership with Apayao State College (ASC), successfully concluded the Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP): You Can Be Your Own Boss! (YEP! YCBYOB) x Project MARITES (Mobilizing Available Resources through Inclusive Training and Entrepreneurial Support) from August 5 to 8 at EKB Auditorium, ASC-Luna Campus.
Three mentees emerged as the best among the business pitching presentations, namely:
Champion: Reynalyn F. Ferrera of YTulod Ka (2nd year BSBA-Luna Campus)
1st place: Aika E. Gumidam of Indigielastic Craft (3rd year BEED-Conner Campus)
2nd place: Jezzreel E. Navarro of JN Music Studio, (3rd year BSBA-Luna Campus)
ASC President Dr. John N. Cabansag stressed the deeper essence of entrepreneurship, which extends beyond business creation. “Entrepreneurship is not just about starting a business — it’s about crafting your own path, owning your decisions, and turning your dreams into reality, he said.
DTI-Apayao OIC Elvin T. Oandasan, Trade Industry Development Specialist (TIDS), conveyed the message of DTI Provincial Director Engr. Wena M. Buston. He emphasized the power of ambition and action in shaping the future. “The future belongs to those who dare to dream big and take action. So, let’s set sail on this entrepreneurial voyage together and make our mark on the world”, he remarked.
In his video message, CHED Regional Director Atty. Septon De La Cruz expressed optimism for the students’ growth, envisioning them not only as learners but also as innovative, modern entrepreneurs and responsible citizens.
The 22 YEP mentees benefited from a session with Master Trainer Eleanor B. Saludares, TIDS of DTI-Ifugao, who discussed three key modules: My Business, covering entrepreneurial mindset, design thinking, and marketing; My Business Operation, focusing on customer growth; and My Resources and Finances, addressing teamwork, workplace rights, and financial literacy.
To inspire participants, Mr. Mark Jan R. Galleon, President of Apayao Sustainable Cacao Alliance (ASCA), shared insights from his entrepreneurial journey in the cacao industry.
At the closing on August 8, Engr. Buston conveyed her congratulations and heartfelt gratitude to all participants and implementing partners.
Present also at the event were TIDS Gillian Kate A. Sampagia-Manalus, YEP Focal; Ms. Jensem Ruth Manzano, Government Intern of DOLE; CHED UniFAST-CAR Project Technical Staff Delaila Irma T. Calindas and Danielle G. Galong; Dr. Philip Constantine Mandac, Scholarship Coordinator; and Administrative Aides Milky Grace Dulce, Project MARITES Focal Person, Fhe L. Velasco, and Janice S. Ulita, Project MARITES Secretariat of ASC.
Serving as panel members during the business pitch were Dr. Ronald O. Ocampo, Vice President for Academics, Research and Development, and Extension Services; Assistant Professor Kriselle Donna A. Baletbet, BSBA Program Chairperson; and Mr. Gilbert Ryan C. Chan, Owner of Hill Top Hardware.
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