PPEs making becomes a source of hope and purpose for the Women’s Economic Empowerment programming of SPARK! Philippines
Photo from SPARK! Philippines
By Victoria “NIKE” De Dios
Faith in humanity, compassion, and the unique Filipino Bayanihan Spirit become prevalent in this time of pandemic as many Filipinos are affected by COVID19.
SPARK! Philippines, one of the very active non-government organizations that have been empowering various marginalized sectors organized a Capability Building on Sewing Techniques and Pattern Making Workshop that launched last September 29, 2020.
With the support of DTI Philippines, J. Amado Araneta Foundation, and the Quezon City local government through the office of Councilor Patrick Michael “PM” Vargas, there were ten women from Barangay Greater Lagro and Barangay Sto. Cristo in Quezon City were selected through the coordination of the office of Councilor Vargas to participate in free training sessions conducted by DTI Philippines on the manufacturing of personal protective equipment (PPE) and face masks.
As a part of SPARK!’s economic empowerment programming, this workshop aims to equip the women participants with new skills and opportunities that will allow them to start their own businesses and livelihoods to support their families. In addition to the free training, the office of Councilor Vargas will provide one participant with their very own sewing machine to kick start their business.
“We in SPARK! Believe that Women’s Economic Empowerment is key in removing women from many vulnerabilities. By doing this program during COVID-19, we are making a tremendous effort towards achieving this dream despite the odds by providing economic opportunities for the women amidst the pandemic and the country’s economic recession.” said Mikaela Luisa Teves, Executive Director of SPARK!
Through SPARK!’s partner, the J. Amado Araneta Foundation, the completed PPE sets will be purchased and donated to the Philippine Children’s Medical Center and the Quezon City General Hospital to support healthcare workers that continue to serve at the frontlines during the ongoing pandemic.
“We are very proud of this initiative, small as it may be, but it is a seed for a sustainable intervention during this difficult time. Bayang Hinabi will assist one of our vulnerable sectors – the women; create an opportunity for growth & livelihood, and provide sustainable assistance to the local health sector through community participation. It’s a win-win project for the LGU, health sector, and citizens, if executed well.” Diane Romero, Executive Director of JAAF said.
Should you have any inquiries about this project or any of SPARK!’s economic empowerment programs, you may contact Kelly Punzalan at +63 916 271 5250 or email at kpunzalan@sparkphilippines.org.