Exposure Sites
The Banangan Women’s Association
Sometime in 2010, some of the women were invited to attend a symposium together with the Barangay Officials. They were then encouraged to form an association in order for them to have access to government programs. There was then an existing organization but due to inactivity of its members, it faded.
One of the officials of the Barangay suggested creating another association that will be composed of a new set of officers and members and thus, the Banangan Women’s Association was organized. They paid for their share capital and started with their first project, which is to sell rice to its members, as well as frozen foods. Aside from these, they tried cash loans for the members as well. This continued for almost seven (7) years but some financial problems occurred due to some members not able to follow the proposed payment schemes.
Then in June of 2018, the association applied for a grant through the office of DOLE, specifically for food processing. The grant was approved in 2019 and equipment was turned over to the association in the same year. The team were then able to make and sell ube halaya around their neighborhood and at the Viewdeck Pasalubong Area.
In January 2020, the association was able to acquire its business permit. However, the pandemic struck in March 2020, causing the association to temporarily stop its operations. Then in the year 2021, they tried to do small processing that catered to a few people.
Through the DTI-SLU First Reverse Pitching Project, the association was then able to forge a meaningful collaboration and partnership with SLU UnRIC and The School of Accountancy, Management, Computing and Information studies Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management and Entrepreneurship, Human Resource, Marketing and Management Department in February 2021 in addressing improved livelihood opportunities of the association through diversified ube-based food products.
Mount Costa
Mount Costa is a 6-hectare garden nestled in the province of Benguet and boasts a plethora of beautiful gardens and experiences. Mount Costa has a collection of 24 gardens, which feature designs inspired by stunning gardens across the globe. It has wide open areas and spaces where families and groups of friends can enjoy and appreciate each other’s company having nature and art in the background. This outdoor haven provides plenty of fun as you venture and explore the trails and discover the flower and art-filled gardens.
One of the most attractive and quirky highlights of the place is the “Mirror Garden.” True to its name, this space features an installation of several mirrors that line a walkway set amongst verdant trees. Another popular spot is the Music Garden, where you can find metal instruments mounted on thin beams that you can tap or gently hit to play notes. Along with artistic installations like the Mirror Garden and the Music Garden, Mount Costa also has gardens with playgrounds that are perfect for children and those young at heart.
Mirador Heritage and Eco-Spirituality Park
Mirador Heritage and Eco-Sanctuary park is located at Mirador Hill, Baguio City, known locally as “Mirador” or “Lourdes Grotto”. The park covers 5 hectares with different sections and attractions such as Rock Gardens, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove,and Peace Memorial.
To know more about Mirador Heritage and Eco-Spirituality Park, please visit the following links:
