05 April 2016 - In line with the economic diplomacy strategy of the Philippine Embassy that aims to diversify stakeholder profile in the Philippine economy, the Philippine Overseas Labor and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Offices (POLO-OWWA) in Washington, DC conducted the first-ever seminar on Options for Livelihood and Development for overseas Filipinos on March 31 at the Embassy’s Romulo Hall.

Commercial Counselor Raymond Batac shared the presentation from the Philippine Franchise Authority (PFA) that gave an overview on franchising, including the benefits to and obligations of both franchisor and franchisee.

“The primary advantage of a franchise is that it draws from the brand strength and business model of an already established enterprise. However, these factors also create responsibilities for the franchisee, particularly in meeting standards of quality and preserving the reputation of the business,” he explained to the participants.

Dr. Josyline Javelosa, Philippine Agricultural Attaché for the Americas, presented investment opportunities in the agriculture and agribusiness sectors, ranging from the more traditional activities of rice and crop farming and fishing, to the increasingly lucrative agri-tourism and organic farming businesses.

“Agriculture remains a top driver of the Philippine economy. Innovations in technology and services are changing the face of agriculture in the Philippines, and more and more avenues are being opened to those interested in entering the sector,” Dr. Javelosa said. 

The Embassy’s Economic Officer, Minister Jose Victor Chan-Gonzaga, assured the participants of the Embassy’s willingness to provide advice and appropriate referrals to US-based Filipinos who are looking into establishing businesses in the Philippines.

“We want you to be a part of the Philippine story. All of us in the Embassy, including our colleagues in the Commercial, Agriculture and Labor offices, will be more than happy to start a dialogue with you to review the full range of options that are currently available to our more enterprising kababayans in the US,” Minister Chan Gonzaga stated.

This was appreciated by the participants, many of whom are mainly employed by foreign embassies and business owners in the US.

“This seminar presented some viable options for OFWs in the US who would like to contribute to the economic growth of the Philippines. Apart from the knowledge itself, the network of government offices that are willing to assist potential investors in the franchising and agribusiness sectors is a highly useful resource for us. Specifically as a teachers’ organization participating in the seminar, we also find this to be in line with our ‘Teacherpreneurship’ project in which we are encouraging our fellow Filipino teachers to venture in business back home,” said Ms. Malou Cadacio, Public Relations Officer of the United Federation of Fil-Am Educators-Maryland.  

Welfare Officer and Acting Labor Attaché Petrona Bergado pledged to continue with the program.

“Part of the Government’s service to the OFWs is helping them secure a better future for themselves and their families. Entrepreneurship not only achieves this but also induces a multiplier effect on the national economy. Investments by our OFWs can create more jobs at home and make economic growth truly inclusive,” Ms. Bergado concluded. END