Juanita Dayrita, a 50-year-old entrepreneur, defies the challenges of running a sari-sari store in the face of intense competition and the unexpected hurdles brought about by the pandemic in Barangay Ilihan of Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte.

Juanita’s determination is a remarkable story of resilience.

She is a hardworking wife and mother who initially took various menial jobs to support her family.

However, her life took a positive turn in 2008 when her family became beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

With her daughter Ella Mie and son Jova Lee pursuing education, the family diligently adhered to the program’s conditions, ensuring their eligibility for regular cash grants and rice subsidies.

The real turning point for Juanita came in June 2012 when she and 24 other Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries availed seed capital through the defunct Self-employment Assistance – Kaunlaran (SEA-K) Program of DSWD.

Juanita’s group, the FF Achievers SEA-K Association, became pioneers in accessing a substantial capital of P125,000.

Undeterred by the challenges, Juanita invested her P5,000 share into a rice retailing outlet, creating a small store selling essential food items.

Before the pandemic, the business thrived, securing the family’s income and ensuring smooth bill payments and educational expenses.

The onset of the pandemic tested the family’s resilience. Unable to restock quickly and facing a community grappling with financial hardships, the Dayrita family encountered obstacles.

Despite these difficulties, they refused to compromise their principles and maintained a strict “no utang” (no credit) policy in their store.

As the family weathered the storm, Juanita’s husband, Leo, worked as an on-call driver, ensuring survival.

The family’s determination prevailed, and their store survived and thrived.

Earning between P3,000 – P8,000 pesos weekly, the sari-sari store symbolized the family’s resilience and efficient management.

The couple has now purchased a coconut farm and is also operating their own store.

Ella Mie, a beneficiary of the 4Ps scholarship, capitalized on the opportunity to finish her studies.

Balancing part-time work to cover her school allowance, she graduated with a degree in Midwifery.

Her dedication led to her successful board exam, and after two years of volunteer work in their municipality, she secured a permanent position at the Kolambugan Health Center.

Juanita says her determination, hard work, and strategic planning, coupled with the support of government programs, transform their lives.

She expresses gratitude for being part of the program that alleviated their living conditions and empowered them to face life’s challenges head-on.

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