MCCI to unveil top 3 W.I.N.N.E.R.S at CICC

CEBU, Philippines - The (MCCI) presented the 23 contestants to the search for "W.I.N.N.E.Rs” (Women In Need, Now Entrepreneurs and Role models) who will be vying for a P50,000 cash prize that they can use as additional capital for their businesses.

Carmel de Pio-Salvador, MCCI trustee and WINNERS event chairperson, said MCCI hopes to empower women by helping them improve their businesses at the same time serve as inspiration to their families and the community.

“The Search for WINNERs is a quest for women micro-entrepreneurs from Mandaue City who are supporting their families and are struggling to rise from poverty through their small business ventures.”

The aspiring contestants underwent trainings involving livelihood skills, techniques, business planning and personality development.

“I had difficulty when we had the business planning because honestly I have lots of plans and I was confused which one to do first, I was also nervous," Baby Gene Ortega, a frozen delights vendor said.

However, she said it was all worth it because she gained more knowledge on how to improve her livelihood and also she gained confidence in terms of business communication.

“The MCCI does not just give chances to deserving people but builds hope among community members, specially hard-working mothers in society,” added Ortega.

On the other hand, Ester Simbajon, a viand vendor in Brgy. Casuntingan, Mandaue City, said “I have to work hard for the sake of my family. They are my inspiration.”

Simbajon roams around the barangay to vend different viands such as bihon, pinakbet, lumpia. She doesn't really mind if it rains or if it's too hot while she sells her goods saying "I have to persevere. Especially now that I’m one of the contestants, I have to persevere more to fulfill my dreams.”

Both Ortega and Simbajon are very thankful to God, as well as to MCCI for giving them the chance to improve their financial condition.

The contestants will undergo trainings that will teach them all about entrepreneurship and today, August 24, the top three winners will be announced at the Cebu International Convention Center. (FREEMAN)