Twenty-four (24) members of the Riverside Greeners Association (RISGA) Inc. in Dumalneg, Ilocos Norte enhanced their capacity for sustainable enterprise development following a two-day enterprise operations manual preparation training of the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase 2 last December 5 – 6, 2024.
Recognizing that successful community-based enterprises require robust organizational structures and efficient operational strategies, SAAD Ilocos Team partnered with experts from the Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University – Open University System (DMMMSU-OUS) to deliver this training.
Dr. Romeo C. Opeña, Jr., Training Chief at DMMMSU-OUS’s Center for Professional Education and Development (CPED), and Dr. Lher Verell S. Palabay, Chairperson of the BSBA Department at DMMMSU-OUS, led the sessions.
Their expertise in enterprise management provided the participants with a practical framework for translating theoretical knowledge into tangible operational improvements within RISGA.
The training delved into a wide range of topics, encompassing not only the technical aspects of agricultural production but also the essential elements of effective organizational management. Participants gained a deep understanding on establishing clear organizational structures, defining roles and responsibilities, and implementing efficient decision-making processes.
They also received in-depth instruction on financial management, encompassing budgeting, record-keeping, and transparent financial reporting. The training emphasized the importance of developing robust systems for tracking progress, identifying areas for improvement, and adapting to unforeseen challenges.
Furthermore, the training covered strategies for ensuring long-term sustainability, including risk mitigation, contingency planning, and exploring avenues for expansion and diversification.
A key outcome of the training was the collaborative development of a comprehensive operations manual, a document reflecting RISGA’s unique operational context and future aspirations. This manual, created by the participants themselves under the guidance of the DMMMSU-OUS experts, serves as a practical guide for all aspects of RISGA’s operations, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and accountability. It provides a framework for decision-making, conflict resolution, and continuous improvement.
FA President Wilfredo Nunes said, “This workshop was very helpful. It made me realize that running an association is more than just farming. We need a clear plan and proper guidelines to make sure everything runs smoothly. I’ve learned a lot about organizing and managing our group better.”
Another participant, Marina A. Lardizabal shared, “Before this workshop, I didn’t realize how important it is to have a good financial plan and how to track our progress. Now I feel more confident that our association can grow and become more sustainable. We have a clearer direction on how to move forward.”
The Dumalneg Municipal Agriculture Office collaborated closely with the SAAD team, ensuring a smooth and successful training event. ###
