CTU Main Campus and LGU Toledo City Strengthen Women’s Empowerment through Memorandum of Agreement

In a significant move towards empowering women in Toledo City, the Cebu Technological University (CTU) Main Campus and the local government unit (LGU) of Toledo City have successfully executed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the “Dressmaking and Meat Processing” program occurred on July 19, 2023 at Toledo City Sports Center. It aimed to provide women with valuable skills and sustainable livelihood opportunities. This program exemplifies the shared commitment of the involved parties towards fostering economic independence, entrepreneurship, and personal development among women.

Key individuals who played vital roles in the program’s success attended the MOA signing. The first party, represented by CTU Main Campus, included Project Leader Dr. Mitchelle D. Arroz of the College of Education, and dedicated training specialists Dr. Danilo O. CebeDr. Helen O. RevaldeDr. Venus Z. LoremiaDr. Romarico A. LoremiaDr. Lilibeth C. PiniliDr. Marjorie AneroDr. Jannekka CapunoProf. Floro MarturillasDr. Roberto SusonDr. Glenn C. Lapiz, and the event host, Dr. Kaitlin Marie M. Opingo.

From the second party, the LGU of Toledo City was represented by Hon. Arlene Dydee E. Zambo, Committee on Women, Children & Family Relations, City Councilor and Former Mayor of Toledo City, Cebu; Ms. Norma R. Hornales, President of Toledo Dynamic for Livelihood Development, Inc.; Mrs. Mae Delia Tacandong, City Administrator, DSWD Department Head; and Mrs. Jennifer Sotis, Urban Poor Federation President. Their attendance affirmed the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable economic growth and women’s empowerment in the community.

Additionally, the event was graced by 20 beneficiaries for Dress Making and 20 beneficiaries for Meat Processing, testifying to the program’s immediate impact on the community.

The “Dressmaking and Meat Processing” program, carefully crafted by dedicated training specialists, offers comprehensive training to equip women in Toledo City with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in the fashion and meat processing industries. The program provides participants with viable self-employment options and job opportunities in related sectors.

The initiative acknowledges women as catalysts for change and progress, providing tailored training modules, mentorship programs, and access to business networks to help them rise as entrepreneurs and leaders within their communities.

The successful MOA signing marks a significant step towards empowering women in Toledo City. The program is set to unleash the potential of women, helping them seize opportunities, contribute to their community’s economic growth, and foster a more inclusive, equitable society. With all parties’ unwavering commitment, the “Dressmaking and Meat Processing” program promises a transformative impact on the lives of women in Toledo City, paving the way for a brighter future.

Words by Kaitlin Marie Opingo