𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗲𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗮𝗴-𝗮𝘀𝗮 𝗥𝗜𝗖 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗼. 𝗗𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗼

By: Mikaela V. Sioson

The Pag-asa Rural Improvement Club (RIC) at Sto. Domingo, Nueva Ecija began as a modest initiative with a clear mission which is to uplift lives and create opportunities within the community. Established in August 2013 with limited resources and a small group of members, the organization was built through the dedication of local leaders, volunteers, and grassroots support. Despite the humble beginnings, the community’s vision remained strong and unwavering.

Hit of the Bigwave

 Like many other organizations, the Pag-asa RIC faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading members to fear that they might never rekindle the organization’s momentum. Limited funds, reduced livelihood opportunities, loss of members, and restrictions on face-to-face communication hindered their operations and threatened the continuity of the organization.

Despite these obstacles, the situation also presented new opportunities. The organization adapted to the changing environment by shifting to online training, exploring alternative livelihood options, and implementing health and safety measures. These initiatives led to recognition from local government units and helped transform the organization into a more sustainable program.

Where livelihoods blossomed

Building on the recognition from the local government units, the organization expanded its programs to include livelihood workshops, value- adding activities, and the development and exploration of different products that could serve as sustainable sources of income. These initiatives enabled the organization to reach more members of the community, encouraging participation while enhancing their skills, capabilities, and confidence.

According to the organization’s President, Ms. Virginia Smith, the club influences a number of women in their community. “Ang Pag-asa RIC Burgos ay sumasapi rin po sa social activities, nakapag-iimpluwensya po kami ng iba't-ibang kababaihan dito. Napatunayan po nito ng mga member na malaki po ang naitutulong ng Pag -asa RIC Burgos sa kanilang sarili at sa kanilang pamilya dahil dito po sila ay natututo ng pangkabuhayan at pagkakakitaan.”

The w omen in the organization have empowered themselves and are now able to support their families through the additional income generated from the organization’s value-added products. The organization has also gained recogni tion from the local government and partner agencies for its positive impact on the community.

“Nakatulong po sa akin ang RIC, dahil po sa mga training. Dahil doon, natutunan po naming gumawa ng shing-a-ling, boneless tinapa, candle, dishwashing liquid at marami pa pong iba. Dito po nakakuha ako ng pambaon para sa aking anak sa eskwela at dagdag na kita para sa aking pamilya,” a Pag-asa RIC member quipped.

Behind the Petals

The growth of Pag-asa RIC was made possible through the collective support of various partners. Government agencies provided technical training, non-government organizations facilitated capacity-building workshops, and educational institutions contributed research-based improvements. Financial assistance also played a vital role by supporting the acquisition of equipment and the development of facilities, ensuring the organization’s sustain able growth.

“Kaming mga RIC ay napaka-proud po namin sa aming sarili dahil nakapagbibigay po kami ng kaalaman, kabuhayan, kakayanan, at woman empowerment,” shared Mrs. Smith, President of Pag-asa RIC.

The organization has been recognized as an Outstanding Rural Improvement Club twice at the municipal, provincial, and regional levels, testament to the impact of its programs and the empowerment of its members. These achievements are the fruit of their hardships and efforts from 22 members to 56 empowering women of the present.

These achievements show that Pag-asa RIC of Barangay Burgos is more than just an organization, it represents empowerment in action, fostering knowledge, skills, livelihoods, and confidence among rural women, while serving as a model for sustainable community development.

From its humble beginnings, Pag-asa RIC blossomed into a thriving example of rural empowerment and achievement. Today, the organization not only reflects its unwavering commitment to its mission but also embodies hope, proving that with strong foundations and collective effort, even the simplest beginnings can lead to meaningful and lasting change.