As the world grappled with the uncertainties and challenges of the pandemic in 2020, some stories of resilience emerged, shining a light on the extraordinary spirit of individuals determined to create a better life for their families. One such story is that of Ms. Riza Pabua, a 46-year-old housewife from Camaman-an, Cagayan de Oro City. With the support of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), Ms. Pabua transformed her passion for making banana chips into a thriving business that has flourished even in the face of adversity.
Ms. Pabua’s journey began in 2013, sparked by her love for creating snacks from local produce. When the pandemic struck, she faced a critical juncture as her husband, Mr. Eric Pabua, a lineman, and she navigated the complexities of family life, raising five children. With one child already graduated in college and another one currently enrolled in the Alternative Learning System (ALS), the couple had their hands full. Just as Ms. Riza sought a loan from the bank on March 12, 2020, to revitalize her business, the nationwide lockdown was enforced on March 25, effectively crippling her plans.
Yet, in true entrepreneurial fashion, Ms. Pabua refused to be defeated. She embraced creativity and resilience, exploring various avenues to sell her products; from the busy corridors of Vita Basic Education School to door-to-door marketing in her community. Unfortunately, the pandemic curtailed her efforts. One disappointing day, after preparing to sell her product at school, she discovered classes had been canceled, leaving her without sales to cover her loan. Her attempts to sell at Limketkai Mall proved equally challenging, yielding only 50 packs sold over four months.
Despite these setbacks, Ms. Pabua’s spirit remained unbroken. Recognizing the importance of adaptability in business, she revitalized her approach and sought opportunities beyond banana chips. As loyal customers began to take notice, her entrepreneurial ventures expanded to include taro and camote chips, and she began to envision a broader product line, including bread, pastries, and coffee.
The turning point came with the support of the SLP, which granted her Php 10,000 to help sustain her entrepreneurial vision. This financial lifeline not only aided in maintaining her business but also instilled renewed hope for the future. Currently, Ms. Pabua earns approximately Php 10,400 from regular orders at Country Side Steakhouse, alongside an additional Php 7,000 each month from community displays at the city hall. With each passing month, her determination and hard work bore fruit as her business began to flourish.
Ms. Riza takes her earnings and carefully invests in assets for her growing venture. Her purchases include a coffee maker, two double deep fryers, a slicer, tables for local bazaars, three blenders, an oven, and a stand mixer. Her vision extends beyond selling snacks; every single peso earned goes toward making necessary improvements to her home, signifying her commitment to her family’s welfare.
In an era marked by uncertainty, Ms. Riza Pabua exemplifies the unwavering strength and adaptability of the human spirit. Her entrepreneurial journey is not just about business; it is a testament to personal resilience, innovation, and the power of community support during hard times. As she continues to expand her product offerings and improve her family’s living situation, Ms. Pabua stands as an inspiring figure, showcasing that with hard work and determination, a brighter future is indeed attainable.
