Women entrepreneurs in Muntinlupa are set to expand their reach and impact. The Department of Agriculture (DA), through its KADIWA Financial Grant Assistance Program, released P2.5 million to modernize the Muntinlupa Training and Resource Center for Women (MTRCW).
The city government of Muntinlupa added P1.5 million, bringing the total investment to the food hub to P4 million.
The upgraded facility now features state-of-the-art meat and fish processing equipment, enabling local women’s cooperatives to produce preservative-free tapa, tocino, longganisa, bangus, and other value-added products.
The modernization strengthens food safety compliance, improves product quality, and boosts market competitiveness.
DA Assistant Secretary for Agribusiness, Marketing, and Consumer Affairs Atty. Genevieve E. Velicaria-Guevarra said the initiative’s broader impact is empowering women and making them an engine of growth for the local economy.
“This isn’t just a turnover of equipment. It’s a concrete step to empower women, enhance income, and strengthen food security in the community,” she said.
Sen. Imee Marcos lauded the program as a catalyst for women-led enterprise and local development.
“Through KADIWA, we provide women the tools to grow businesses, produce quality food, and build stronger communities,” she said during Women’s Month.
Mayor Ruffy Biazon thanked national partners for supporting local livelihoods. “This assistance strengthens Muntinlupa’s economy and uplifts our women. Programs like this make a tangible difference for the community,” he said.
The collaborative initiative promotes skills development, stable livelihoods, and long-term community growth. With its upgraded facility, MTRCW is now a sustainable hub for women-led enterprises, reflecting DA’s commitment to inclusive growth and ensuring that local cooperatives are equipped to thrive in the evolving agri-food value chain.
