From Challenges to Triumph: Elsa Ramirez's Inspiring Agripreneur Journey

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 journey has been filled with trials. Yet, with unwavering optimism and passion, they have weathered every storm.

Elsa's entrepreneurial spirit led her to diversify their family's sources of income. Following the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda in 2013, she established a sari-sari store, offering a variety of products. Their family also ran a canteen near the local elementary school for about three decades, serving the community.

Elsa expresses her gratitude towards CARD, Inc., a Microfinance NGO, for playing a pivotal role in their success. "I became a CARD client in 2009 not just for loans, but because of the insurance it offers. With CARD by our side, we always have a safety net in times of emergencies, especially for business needs," Elsa said. Indeed, CARD's support has enabled Elsa to further expand her business, ensuring steady growth even in uncertain times.

Today, Elsa's businesses are thriving, with seasonal crops like watermelons and various vegetables augmenting their regular produce. "A single watermelon harvest of 1,000 kilograms can bring in over PHP30,000 during peak seasons," she said. Their local vegetables, including string beans, eggplants, and Chinese cabbage, are harvested quarterly and sold at retail prices ranging from PHP20 to PHP100 per kilogram.

These agricultural products are widely distributed in the market, thanks to their partnerships with traders, wholesalers, and retail store owners around Carmen, Bohol. The success of the business has enabled Elsa to provide jobs, contributing to the growth of Carmen's local economy.

Elsa's story is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs. She advises, "For those who want to venture into business, you must be steadfast, passionate, and optimistic because the road is tough, but it's worthwhile." Elsa has ambitious plans for the future, intending to develop their business by purchasing more farms to diversify their agriproduct offerings, further enriching the agricultural landscape of Carmen and the lives of its people.