BOHOL. A Gender-Based Training on Value-Adding and Marketing on Processed Products was conducted by the Agricultural Training Institute–Regional Training Center 7 on March 6-8, 2018 at Sta. Catalina, Sagabayan, this province.

The activity was aimed at soliciting active participation of our rural women in value-adding business and marketing activities. Substantial inputs, productive workshops, and experiential sharing were included in the activity with Ms. Estrella T. Espinosa, GAD Advocate, and Ms. Ma. Teresa A. Bernido, from OPA-Bohol as the resource persons.

Sta. Catalina Women’s Association Kaunlaran (SWAK) of Sagbayan, Bohol sent 30 of its members to attend the training with two participants from the Municipal Agriculturist’s Office. The participants have crafted the action plan for their organization and business as their output. Having their plans made implies that the training has a positive impact on their lives as rural women. “Dako kaayo akong pasalamat nga nakaapil ko ani nga seminar kay nakat-on ko nga mangandoy ugdako. Nasuta nako nga aduna pa sad diay koy bili sulod sa among panimalay,” participant Marjoree Gutierrez said during her impression.

The SWAK also received after training support from ATI-RTC 7 specifically cooking supplies and materials as their start-up livelihood kit for their turmeric processing.

The highlight of the activity was the tribute offered to the participants on the 3rd day, March 8. The balloon-releasing ceremonial activity was conducted in celebration of the International Women’s Day. The women sent up their balloons with a note of their commitment to the organization and its endeavor, to their family, and to the whole community.

The three-day training was coordinated by the project officer, Ma. Gracia Soliva-Pungay and facilitated by Joemelyn A. Sumagang while Jovani Picot ably assisted the activity.