In Baguio City, small businesses that commenced operations just before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic are optimistic about enhanced prospects, particularly after undergoing capacity-building training provided by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
Guil Ocampo, a young entrepreneur in his mid-30s who manages a coffee shop along Session Road, expresses hope for a promising year ahead. He attributes his positive outlook to recent favorable indicators and the valuable management and financial preparation training received through DTI's "Kapatid Mentor Me" (KMM) program.
According to Ocampo, the KMM training significantly transformed the dynamics of his business by teaching him how to assess daily sales in the context of long-term scenarios. Mastering financial reporting, interpretation, and adeptly navigating business operations to avoid issues with government regulatory bodies were highlighted as crucial takeaways. He emphasizes that confidence in managing the business effectively has been a significant confidence boost.
Ocampo enrolled in the KMM program in 2022 when facing potential losses, realizing the necessity for additional knowledge. Having resigned from employment to start a business, he saw his life savings depleted from opening a cafe and relocating to another Session Road site.
In February 2020, Ocampo and his friends launched their business in a hotel near Wright Park, capitalizing on the potential of a coffee-related venture. However, a month later, a nationwide lockdown forced immediate closure.
Despite challenges, Ocampo adapted by offering delivery services in the absence of dine-in clients. The pandemic taught him the importance of cooperation and collaboration with other businesses. His coffee shop's current location, initially a drop-off area for cosplay items, now houses a board game-friendly cafe and a space for cosplayers to showcase and sell their costumes.
Similarly, Florence Aquino and her sister opened a mini grocery in 2021 at the ground floor of their family residence in Irisan. Having previously operated a small milk tea and fruit shop at the university belt in January 2020, the pandemic also affected their business. Aquino attended the KMM training in 2022, recognizing its value in gaining insights into the future while standing in the present.
Samuel Gallardo, assistant director of DTI-Cordillera, underscores the significance of the KMM program as a regular activity aimed at nurturing entrepreneurship. Implemented with the assistance of private sector stakeholders serving as mentors, the program provides comprehensive training free of charge, covering essential aspects of starting, managing, and improving businesses.
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