IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay (PIA) – A food manufacturing enterprise in Barangay Labrador, Buug town has received P817,300 in funding support from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) under the Innovations for Filipinos Working Distantly from the Philippines (iFWDPH) program.
The assistance enabled Mace and Co. Food Services to expand production operations resulting in a 45% increase in productivity and the creation of 10 local jobs. The enterprise produces Kombucha wine, coconut wine, ginger beer, and artisan ice cream, among other products.
Michael Rey B. Emoricha, an engineer who worked in Singapore for eight years, shared how the business benefited from the program’s Phase 2 Innovation Fund (iFund), which supports the growth of OFW-led enterprises through innovation.
Through this opportunity, we didn’t just grow our business, we lifted up our local farmers, created livelihood, and fueled innovation where it’s needed most,”he said.
“This isn’t just about profit. It’s about purpose.”
According to DOST-Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Science and Technology Office Director Jennifer A. Pidor, the iFWDPH program aims to help returning OFWs build sustainable, science-based businesses that promote local development.
“iFWDPH is a flagship initiative of DOST to empower returning OFWs in establishing sustainable enterprises. It helps boost the local economy and paves the way for financial independence among our modern-day heroes.”
She also explained that the program comprises two main phases—Capability Building (Phase 1) and Innovation Funding (Phase 2).
Mace and Co. Food Services is the first beneficiary of the iFund in Zamboanga Sibugay. Two more returning OFWs in the province have also completed Phase 1 and are expected to proceed to Phase 2 any time this year.
The iFWDPH Program seeks to transform remittances and overseas experiences into sustainable, innovation-driven businesses that contribute to local economic development.
The program has two main phases: Capability Building, which provides training on entrepreneurship, technology use, and business planning; and Innovation Funding (iFund), which offers financial and technical assistance to scale up OFW-led businesses using innovation and local technologies.
Through this program, DOST supports OFWs in becoming empowered entrepreneurs who help strengthen communities and promote inclusive growth. (EDT/JPA/PIA9-Zamboanga Sibugay)
