Asenso Daily News

Oroquieta City, Misamis Occidental | via Bhal Cabrera | October 24, 2023 In the wake of an assassination attempt, Misamis Occidental Governor Henry S. Oaminal remains resolute in his commitment to providing relentless public service and driving forward with reforms for the province. Governor Oaminal's determination was on display during the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting, where he discussed the peace and order situation in the province, with a special focus on the police report detailing the attempted bombing incident on October 15. The attack, which occurred along the roads of Clarin town, involved unidentified individuals who planted an improvised explosive device (IED). The device detonated near the governor's convoy vehicles, in an act that Governor Oaminal condemned as "dastard, cowardly, and barbaric." The use of an IED, prohibited by international humanitarian law, drew strong criticism from Oaminal. Despite the assailants' at

Manila, Philippines | via Bhal Cabrera |October 21, 2023 In a whirlwind of discovery and enlightenment, media partners hailing from the diverse regions of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao congregated for the recently concluded CARD Microfinance Institution Media Lakbay Aral from October 18 to 20, 2023. This unprecedented event, hosted by CARD MRI Publishing, illuminated the intricacies of Philippine microfinance and its profound impact on communities. Day 1: Embracing Diversity at Kabayan Hotel The inaugural day witnessed a tapestry of cultures as media partners arrived from different corners of the nation, finding a common home at the Kabayan Hotel in Pasay. At 5 pm, an ambiance of warmth enveloped the gathering during a Welcome Dinner at Aristocrat Malate. Here, Sir Jeff Tandingan of CARD Publishing, the guiding light of the media tour, shared insights and orientated attendees on the compelling journey ahead. Day 2: Traversing Manila’s Rich Heritage and Innovation Day two emb

Manila, Philippines  | via Bhal Cabrera | October 20, 2023  The second day of the CARD Microfinance Institution Media Lakbay Aral, initiated by CARD Publishing, took participants on an insightful journey through the thriving world of microfinance in the heart of Manila. This educational excursion was aimed at shedding light on the crucial role microfinance institutions play in uplifting the lives of Filipinos and providing them with opportunities for financial growth. The day commenced with a visit to the historic district of Intramuros, where the participants immersed themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines. The group then ventured into Binondo, Manila's bustling Chinatown, to savor the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine at the prestigious Presidential Grand Palace Restaurant. Following this cultural interlude, the group turned its focus back to the primary objective of the Lakbay Aral program: understanding the microfinance landscape. The first s

Oriental Mindoro, October 18, 2023 In a concerted effort to combat environmental challenges and promote sustainability, CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI), in collaboration with CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO), CARD Bank, and CARD MBA, recently planted 750 mangrove trees in Brgy. Baruyan, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro on October 7, 2023. The tree-planting initiative aims to reduce the carbon footprint and counteract the impact of recent oil spills in the area. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) played a pivotal role in recommending the planting of mangrove trees, emphasizing their ecological significance in restoring the affected area following the oil spill. This move aligns with CARD MRI's commitment to the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on a global scale. CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, "While we undertake various initiatives to

Carmen, Bohol | via Bhal Cabrera | October 13, 2023 Beyond the famous Chocolate Hills, the small town of Carmen in Bohol thrives on its agriculture. This sector is the livelihood for most locals, and one remarkable individual, Elsa Ramirez, a 50-year-old CARD client and experienced agripreneur, stands as a shining example of dedication and success in the field. Elsa has been advocating for the support of local farming for over three decades, and her journey in agriculture has not only been a source of self-fulfillment but has also contributed to the prosperity of her community. She firmly believes that the agricultural industry nourishes society, from creating jobs to feeding families. Elsa, a mother of five children, made a deliberate choice to focus on the family business over formal education. This shared commitment to agriculture has kept their business resilient in the face of numerous challenges. From confronting natural disasters to fierce market competition, their j

San Antonio, Quezon Province | via Bhal Cabrera | October 13, 2023  Melanie Paña, a resilient microentrepreneur hailing from Barangay Puri, San Antonio, Quezon Province, has defied the odds to achieve entrepreneurial success. Melanie's story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and strategic financial support. Building one's own business is an arduous journey, but it's a path that allows individuals to transform their dreams into reality. Melanie's journey began with the invaluable knowledge passed down by her parents, who nurtured her with insights and lessons in business. "Our parents taught us the ins and outs of doing business and ensured we were prepared to sustain our family's rice retailing business," Melanie shared. Despite facing challenges, including an incomplete formal education in marketing, Melanie blended academic knowledge with her family's teachings, equipping her to manage the family's rice retail busi