Success Stories

It was in the year 2010 that Ms. Emily Aquino started her Sari- Sari Store in
order to have a steady income. As time went by and as her family grew, the
needs of the family and the business also grew. In 2012, through the NSCC’s
tie-up with the Livelihood program of the City Government of Vigan, headed at
that time by Hon. Eva Marie S. Medina, Ms. Aquino decided to join NSCC MPC.
At that time, she applied for a loan amounting to Php5,000.00 to further support
her sari- sari store.
Ms. Aquino observed the positive impact that the services of NSCC MPC
had on her business and her family life. She was able to provide for her family’s
daily needs and, most especially, support her children’s education. Due to this,
her faith in NSCC MPC was further strengthened, and she continued to support
the other services of the said cooperative.
All seemed to be going well for Ms. Aquino, her family life and her business
thriving, but an unprecedented global disaster struck. The COVID-19
Pandemic, the virus spreading worldwide in early 2020, disrupted businesses
and the day-to-day life of people. It greatly affected the Province of Ilocos Sur,
strict regulations and quarantine measures were established throughout the
area. “Pinatibker ko iti patinakem ko nga insakad iti pamilyak kadwak ti naanus
nga asawa aginggana nga nalpas iti konada nga pandemya” she said to us
firmly. Emily and Benito strived to overcome this gargantuan challenge for the
sake of their family and so they did.
The growing needs of their family, pushed Emily and Benito to
expand their horizons. Through NSCC MPC Vigan Branch, she
then applied for an additional loan that was then approved and
was subsequently used to establish a vulcanizing shop. This new
business thrived and received great support from the community. It
proved the saying: "If you pair hard work and patience with
everything you do, you will slowly achieve your dreams; just keep
praying to God for strength and health. Those who endure are
those who succeed. Success comes gradually to all of us.”
With the help of NSCC, MPC partnered with the couple’s
tenacity they were able to purchase a lot as well as a tricycle. But
for Ms. Aquino, the fruits of their labor were even sweeter through
the achievements of her children, one of whom graduated Cum
Laude, and the other graduating this May 2026. “Without NSCC
MPC’s support, these milestones would have remained as just
dreams,” she said to us.
On behalf of her family, MS. Aquino expressed her heartfelt
thanks to NSCC MPC, and she hoped that more members
aspirations can be turned into reality.
AGBIAG!

Before becoming a member of the cooperative on July 4, 2017, Maria had
already started her small business in 2007 as a reseller of Avon, Natasha,
Yakult, and peanut butter, operating as a rolling vendor while also engaging
in farming activities. With an initial capital of only ₱5,000, she worked
tirelessly to sustain her family’s daily needs and prioritize the education of
her children, guided by her life motto: “Do not do to others what you do not
want others to do to you.”
Upon joining NSCC MPC, Maria gained access to financial services that
significantly contributed to the growth of her business. Through disciplined
financial management and consistent loan repayment, she has become a
valued member of the cooperative and a valued entrepreneur.
The cooperative played a vital role in strengthening Maria’s livelihood. The
accessible and low-interest loan programs allowed her to invest in both her
retail business and farming activities, including purchasing seeds, fertilizers,
and other agricultural inputs. During the pandemic, when her income
declined due to reduced customer demand, Maria demonstrated adaptability
by offering grocery items on a credit basis, payable weekly or monthly. This
initiative not only sustained her business but also helped her community
during a challenging time.
Mrs. Maria chose NSCC MPC over other financial institutions because of its affordable interest rates and the
welcoming and supportive attitude of its staff in Urdaneta Branch. Beyond financial assistance, she benefited
from annual dividends and insurance coverage provided by the cooperative. These benefits reinforced her
trust and confidence in the organization.
Moreover, Mrs. Maria actively sought personal and professional growth by joining their barangay association,
where she learned valuable knowledge about agricultural processes—from planting to harvesting. These
learnings further enhanced her productivity and efficiency as a farmer and entrepreneur.
Through her journey, Mrs. Maria developed a deeper understanding of financial discipline, proper budgeting,
and the importance of reinvesting in her business. She attributes much of her progress to the guidance and
support of NSCC MPC, which not only provided financial resources but also encouraged her to become more
responsible, resourceful, and community-oriented.
Today, Mrs. Maria stands as a testament to how cooperative membership can transform lives. Her story
reflects perseverance, hard work, and the power of cooperation. She encourages fellow members to remain
diligent and committed, emphasizing that being part of a cooperative like NSCC MPC is not just about
accessing loans, but about building a sustainable and better future for oneself and one’s family through unity,
trust, and shared growth.

From the quiet town of Sual, Pangasinan came a story of perseverance and partnership. Working hard was
not something new for Ms. Jay Ann; she used to work for a private company and saved enough money to start
a small sari-sari store. She realized then that working for a private company was not the path for her,
eventually she resigned from her post.
The sense of agency that comes with
being a micro-entrepreneur and the thrill of
being directly involved in your own
business greatly suited Ms. Jay Ann, but a
dream for her was to make her business
thrive even more. She thought long and
hard on ways to make the humble sari-sari
store and subsequently her daily life
improve even better. The help came in the
form of NSCC MPC.
The cooperative, in her eyes, offered the
services she needed. Becoming a member
was a commitment that required a
thorough understanding of the cooperative
sector. So she made sure that this was
what her and her business needed.
In September 27, 2021, she took the first step to financial and
economic stability, and she became a member of NSCC MPC
Sual Branch. Availing the services of the cooperative helped in
improving her business. Eventually, she also forayed into
aquaculture, purchasing 2 fish cages. One of her main goals in
life is to make her business boom in order to help not only her
employees but also anyone who is in need.
But like any other micro-entrepreneur, Ms. Jay Ann also faced challenges
in running her business. For example, competition between sari-sari stores
and convenience stores. But this did not hinder Jay Ann, it motivated her
even more, and she persevered through these obstacles, either man-made
or natural phenomena. NSCC MPC Sual Branch was also her partner in
facing these challenges. “Madaling Lapitan ( ang NSCC MPC ) sa oras ng
pangangailangan at hindi lamang siya ang natutulungan nito” (It is easy to
approach the cooperative in times of need, and the cooperative does not
only help her[ but many more]).
Ms. Jay Ann has one message to other members, this was to borrow
wisely and pay wisely. She expressed her gratitude for the cooperation and
wish them more success.

The year 1986 was a challenging time for Ms. Editha Ordinado and her family, Mr. Agustin Ordinado , the
patriarch of the family and her husband, had undergone a rigorous spinal operation. Due to the mounting bills
and the increasing need for another income in order to buy Mr. Ordinado’s medicine for maintenance, Ms.
Editha decided to start a small sari-sari store.
The starting capital amounting to Php5,000.00 proved to be
insufficient as the years went by. Nanay Editha started to look
for a way to ensure that her sari-sari store can withstand the
test of time. In 2011, she became a member of the NSCC
Federation, back when federations were still allowed to accept
individual members. In 2016, she was transferred to the NSCC
Multi-Purpose Cooperative.
She was able to apply for a loan in the amount of Php 10,000.00 to support her humble sari-sari store
further and consequently, her family. Nanay Editha through availing the services tof the cooperative, she was
able to improve the store as well as buy appliances to support her business and throughout the years, she still
continued to patronize the products and services of the cooprative. In her words, “ Nasiyaat nga pagutangan
ken nalaka nga pakiusapan lalo nu mayrana nga nakapsut ti paglakwan” (It’s a good place to apply a loan from
and the management) is very easy to talk to, especially if the collection date coincides with the business being
slow and profit is low).
Nanay Editha also believed in the words “Nu umutang ka ket dapat mayusar ti negosyo saan nga mausar ti
sabali a banag tapnu adda latta puunan” (If you apply for a loan, you should use the loan for your business
only, not for other questionable reasons, so that you would be able to get more capital). Nanay Editha’s
discipline with money and her awareness of her responsibility with her loan have been valuable to the success
with her store and her good standing with the cooperative.
“Agyaman nak ti NSCC MPC ta napabigyan nak nga bumolod ti dakkel nga isu ti gapu nga dimmakel daytoy
store ko ket nu nalpas ko manen daytoy bulod ko ket planok manan nga bumulod tapno napasimpak toy ngato
ti store ko.” (Thank you very much to NSCC MPC that I was given the chance to apply for a big loan which led
to my store’s expansion. Once I'm able to finish paying off my previous loan, I plan to apply again for the
improvement of the 2 nd floor of the store.)
M a b uhay ang Kooperatiba! Mabuhay ang NSCC MPC!

Mr. Brando Magalong’s story is a testimony to the enduring
love a parent has for their children and that a humble beginning
does not exclude a person from a life of growth and stability.
A resident of Camarin, Caloocan City, Mr. Magalong is married
to Ms. Maria Teresita Magalong, and together they share 5
children. These children serve as the driving force behind Mr.
Magalong’s desire for a secure future and lasting legacy.
His journey began with a single, modest step. With an initial
capital of Php20,000.00, he ventured into the transport sector.
This path was far from smooth. His first -ever jeepney was
plagued by mechanical troubles, testing both his patience and his
resolve. But this challenge did not deter him, his desire to support
and provide for his family was always at the forefront of his mind,
and along the way, he learned the value of patience and
persistence.
Mr. Magalong also faced personal and
financial hardships. Running a transport
business was not always easy. There were
some days when profit was low, and the
difficulty of keeping up with an evermodernizing
Philippines proved to be too
much to bear. Mr. Magalong sought help
from his wife, who at that time was working
abroad, but unfortunately, she was unable
to. The weight of responsibility on the
shoulders of Mr. Magalong, at some point,
became too overwhelming, but his
determination was iron-clad, and soon after
Mr. Magalong was able to purchase a
second jeepney.
NSCC MPC was Mr. Magalong’s chosen partner throughout this journey. He continued to patronize the
services of the cooperative. He applied for another loan with the cooperative to further expand his business and
plans to apply again in the future. He hoped that one day he would be able to pass his transport business to his
children ensuring a sustainable source of livelihood for future generations.
Mr. Magalong expressed his hope that the cooperative would be able to help more people and maintain the
quality service and prodcuts the the cooperative offers. Mabuhay ang Transport Sector! Mabuhay ang Kooperatiba
at Mabuhay ang NSCC!

A mother, a wife, a fighter. These were the words that best describe Ms. Marites Ubasa. In the span of 7
years in the world of business, it was still fresh on her mind the times when sacrifice and hardships were all
she’s ever known. Throughout all of this, Mr. Warlito Ubasa, her husband, remained by her side, quiet but
supportive. This partnership gave birth to their business, Marites Homestay and Restaurant.
Ms. Ubasa wanted to ensure that she would be able to provide a good life for her family. She and her
husband are both dedicated to making their business thrive for the sake of their family. But the business was
not always smooth; there were days when there was no profit. Competition was rampant with the rise of
transient homes it proved to be a challenging time for Ms. Urbasa. At some point, she thought of giving up;
maybe this path was not for her or for her family. But things changed in the year 2013, in the middle of the
doubts in her head and the exhaustion felt deep in her bones, she got introduced to NSCC MPC when she
attended the pre-membership seminar that was conducted at that time by Ms. Marijhoy Pilar and Mr. Marjade
Quiocho. It was a life-changing moment for her; she saw the benefits that could come from becoming a
member of the cooperative as well as the values that she could learn from it. Things were looking up for her.
Through the cooperative’s financial program, she was able to apply for additional capital for her business.
Ensuring the service she provides for her guests and clients was high quality and comfortable. It was not
difficult for her to pay off her loans because of the low interest and the mutual trust that was forged between
her and the cooperative. She learned how to be responsible for every cent of her profit and to really run a
business with an effective system. Ms. Ubasa was in awe of the spirit of cooperativism, so much so that she
was able to convince one of her children to become a member. Through the cooperative and the strength she
draws from her family, the “kainan” became a restaurant.
“Ang kooperatiba ay isa sa aming mga naging kaagapay sa buhay” (The cooperative was one of our
partners in life), Ms. Ubasa shared with the interviewer. With the proper guidance one will be able to achieve
therir goals. Right now, she dreams to make her business even bigger as well as help the community the she
comes from though job generation . Her story serves as a reminder that however humble your beginnings
were, if you have the firt, diligence, and faith, you will achieve a prosperous life.

When Mr. Tirso DL. Aquino was 20 he started a business of buying and selling pigs. At that time, he was
already married and wanted to have a steady income for his future family. In his backyard, he established his
own piggery, and for over 30 years, this has been his main source of income. He first heard of NSCC MPC
from a president of a farmers’ association in his area, Mr. Flaviano Aquino Jr. Mr. Tirso was interested in the
services of the cooperative and he thought it would be a great idea to be a member. He had dreams of further
expanding his business, and on July 18, 2011, he formally became a part of the NSCC MPC- Lingayen Branch
family.
The business of Mr. Aquino
served as a source for their daily
needs and especially the
schooling of his children.
Rearing pigs had its own set
of problems. During the outbreak
of African Swine Fever (ASF)
and cholera virus, both diseases
affected the animals greatly. He
considers this outbreak to be one
of the worst challenges that they
have faced. Mr. Aquino had to
conduct disinfection in the area
daily and for one year, he had to
stop rearing pigs. Mr. Aquino
turned to NSCC MPC for help
during the tough times, and the
cooperative delivered.
Mr. Aquino, in verbatim, said
that he chose NSCC MPC
because of the low interest. He
shared that through NSCC MPC,
it helped with the schooling of his
children.
“Bukod sa pagpapahiram sa puhunan namin ay maganda rin ang insurance na nakaabang sa ating pamilya
lalo na sa mga anak ko na below 18 years old”(“Aside from offering capital, the cooperative’s insurance was
also good, especially for my children who are minors”).
The help he got from the cooperative was used to expand and add to the capital of his business, as well as
for his farming. Currently, Mr. Aquino is applying for the ANYO loan. He also acknowledges the contributions of
NSCC MPC for teaching him financial literacy, including savings and investments.
“Ang maishashare ko sa mga kasama ko lalo na sa farmers na makapagmiyembro dito sa NSCC MPC
para makapag-start din sila ng negosyo at makapag-ipon sa hinaharap at sa pang- araw- araw na buhay.” (For
my fellowmen, especially the farmers, I encourage you to become members of NSCC MPC to invest and save
for your daily needs). Maraming Salamat! Mabuhay ang kooperatiba!

“If we fail, we learn. If we learn, we earn.” - J. P. Matias
Jonas Petel Matias, a resident of Brgy. 5 San Vicente, Sarrat, Ilocos Norte, is a dedicated entrepreneur and
family man who turned his passion for printing into a thriving business. At 34 years old and married to Careen
Amelia Matias, a child development worker, they are blessed with three children. His two children are taking a
course in BS Nursing and a BS in Psychology. He has a son who holds a degree in BS engineering and is a
licensed civil engineer. He has perseverance, determination, and commitment to improving his family’s quality of
life. Jonas started his printing services business in 2002 with a modest starting capital of ₱50,000. Like many small
business owners, he faced numerous challenges during the early years of his enterprise. Limited financial resources
and operational difficulties tested his determination. However, he remained focused on his mission, which is to
provide quality printing services to his clients. He believes that failures are opportunities to learn, and learning
eventually leads to success and growth.
Through hard work and dedication, Jonas slowly expanded
his business. He prioritized delivering high-quality service and
maintaining good relationships with his customers. His
perseverance paid off as his business steadily grew, allowing
him to increase his capital from ₱50,000 to ₱450,000 and
provide employment to two workers in their community.
Jonas credits part of his success to the support he received
from NSCC Multi-Purpose Cooperative. As a cooperative
member since 2007, he was able to access financial assistance
that helped him expand his operations. The cooperative
provided him with business loans that allowed him to purchase
additional equipment and improve his services. He appreciated
the cooperative’s approachable staff, efficient service, and
timely support whenever he needed financial help.
Because of the cooperative’s assistance, Jonas was able to
strengthen his business operations and increase his capital. He
also learned valuable lessons about financial management,
responsibility, and business growth. He proudly shares that the
cooperative offers reliable and fast services that truly help
members during times of need.
Today, Jonas continues to grow his printing business while
serving as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs in their
community. His journey proves that with determination, proper
financial support, and strong faith in one’s goals, success is
achievable. He encourages others to work hard, remain patient,
and seek opportunities that will help them improve their
livelihood.
“Thank you, NSCC MPC! Forever grateful and proud member
here” Mr. Matias said.

Mr. Norberto Jimenez’s business, a private vehicle for hire, was the fruit of the partnership between his
parents. This business has been part of life for nearly 38 years, so it has a special place in his heart, and
he will do whatever he can to uphold what his parents have started. Ensuring that the business endures
the test of time.
“Blood, sweat, and tears were my capital on the road,” he told us simply. It was this determination that
introduced him to NSCC MPC. Due to his desire for the business flourish, he wanted to find a trusted
organization to help achieve his goal. He became a member of the NSCC MPC Cervantes Branch on
December 6, 2018.
Running a business was not a walk in the park, most especially those in the transport sector. There
were times when there were not many clients availing the services, but this did not discourage him; it
motivated him to work even harder. Mr. Jimenez is also keen on following regulatory compliance, albeit
difficult, he wanted to ensure that he could offer quality service and maintain client satisfaction.
For Mr. Jimenez, the NSCC MPC became their true partner in business. He attributes it to the kind
staff and the fast approval of his loans, as well as the low interest rates and the services they offer that
are tailored to his needs. This partnership led to his business growing. He shared with us that his private
hiring PUV service, which began with only one unit has now increased to three units. He also added that
he was able to set aside funds for the maintenance of each vehicle.
“As a member, I have learned the value of ‘one member, one vote’ and the power of unity. Through the
cooperative, I also learned financial discipline, saving for the masses, and our responsibility to the
community. By the grace of God, my private hiring van business is thriving, and I am steadily paying off
my loans to NSCC because the business continues to grow.”- Mr. Norberto Jimenez
His story is a testament to the enduring power of perseverance, determination, and collaboration in
achieving goals, whether big or small. Mabuhay ang Transport Sector! Mabuhay ang Kooperatiba!

Weaving was a big part of Nanay Zenaida Quitevis’s life.
From an early age, this was her family’s source of income, so
it was no wonder that she also dreamed of starting her own
weaving business. A dream rooted in family and cultural.
traditions.
In 1975, she turned this dream into reality, with a starting
capital of 5,000.00, she established “ Quitevis Handwoven
Cloth”.
“It was through the grace of God that the business
flourished,” she told us with graceful simplicity. As the
business thrived, however, there was a need for more capital
so in the year 2008, she applied for a loan with the Nueva
Segovia Consortium of Cooperatives in the amount of
Php25,000.00.
Creativity seems to run along the veins of her family, as
the weavers were also her relatives. The business was a
family effort, so Nanay Zenaida desired for the business grow
even bigger to not only to benefit her but also the succeeding
generations.
With the continuous development of technology, the
emergence of AI, and the rapid modernization of the world, it
poses a great risk to the traditional practices of the Ilocanos.
The increasing price of the materials used in creating these
products has also become a problem for the business. Amidst
all this, Nanay Zenaida stands firm and determined in
preserving these practices and in making sure that the
businesses she holds dearly can weather any storms that may
pass.
NSCC MPC was the cooperative she chose becasue in her
words “Madali silang malapitan, mabilis ang kanilang proseso
at higit sa lahat magiliw at mabait ang kanilang mga
empleyado. Marami din silang binibigay na benepisyo sa
kanilang miyembro tulad ng dibidendo at tumutulong din sila
kung may bagyo na dumarating. Nagbibigay din sila ng
suporta sa mga naaapektuhan nito.” Nanay Zenaida
expressed her appreciation for NSCC MPC in trusting her and
her vision, and she hoped more members and artists like her
would benefit from the cooperative,
For the people reading this, Nanay Zenaida has a well known saying to impart: “Kung may tiyaga, may nilaga”
Mabuhay ang NSCC MPC! Mabuhay ang Kooperatiba!

During the height of the COVID Pandemic, a long-held dream of Ms. Rosemer Aquino materialized: an RTW
business and Dropping Area. Despite the difficulty of the situation during the pandemic, a complete pause,
really, in the normal day-to-day life, Ms. Aquino’s tenacity, determination, and desire for her family’s lives to
improve have pushed her to do the unthinkable, and she succeeded.
To maintain and further expand her business as well as to provide for the needs of her three children with
Mr. Emerson Aquino, Rosemer decided to become a member of NSCC MPC- Calasiao Branch. She believed
that becoming a member of the cooperative could help her and her family achieve a brighter and flourishing
future.
“Why NSCC MPC?” was a question posited to Ms. Aquino. “Because of the trust that the members have in
the cooperative,” she answered matter-of-factly. She proudly stated that she considered NSCC MPC as her “
Kasanggi sa Buhay” because she felt deep in her bones the care that NSCC MPC has for her and her
business. However, like any other business, she has faced trials and tribulations; business was unpredictable.
She faced days wherein profit was low and in some cases, nothing came in, but this did not deter her because
at the forefront of her mind was her family. Through the support of her husband, her partner in running the
business, and the strength she draws from her children, she never gave up on her business. Now, they were
able to purchase their very own car and have their own home. “Kung may sipag at tiyaga, may aanihin” a
saying that she has put to heart and in her actions. Currently, she continues to run her business in the hopes
that one day she can establish several branches.
“Pahalagahan natin ang suportang ibinibigay ng kooperatiba. I-maintain ang good record, iwasan nating ma
past due. Bawat tulong o hiram na puhunan ay dapat gamitin sa tama, maging ito man ay para sa negosyo,
farming at iba pa. Sa kooperatiba, hindi ka lang basta kliyente, isa kang miyembro at may-ari. Ang pag-unlad
ng kooperatiba ay pag-unlad din nating lahat. At higit sa lahat, laging magdasal sa Panginoon para sa gabay
sa bawat hakbang”- Ms. Rosemer Aquino

Ms. Sherlie Aquino, a resident of Sabang, Cabugao, was
initially a member of NSCC MPC Vigan Branch before
becoming a member of NSCC MPC Cabugao Branch in 2011.
Ms. Aquino has 4 children with her spouse, Mr. Florante
Aquino.
Like any other parent, Ms. Aquino wanted to support the
schooling of her children, so in 2011, she applied for a loan
with NSCC MPC. Throughout it all, NSCC MPC was her
partner when she was putting all her children through college.
But Ms. Aquino also had dreams of her own. In 2020, she
decided to take a gamble, establishing her own sari-sari
store. At that time, her starting capital amounted to
Php15,000.00. With the help of NSCC, her little business
steadily grew.
She expanded her sari- sari store to also offer meals, a “
tapsilogan” or “kainan” which she named Papzsilog. One of her
children helps her in running it. It wasn’t smooth sailing; competition
was rampant, most especially when the tourist spot, the Baywalk,
was opened to the public. But this did not deter Ms. Aquino, she
persevered and made sure that their humble store could withstand
any hurdle.
She considers NSCC MPC as a bridge of hope. Offering a
helping hand to her family when the need arises. Now, she proudly
shared that her children were established professionals: A chef, a
call center manager, an OFW, and a pilot trainee.

Ms. Merlina Valentin, a member of NSCC MPC La Union Branch,
shared her success story, hoping to inspire other members and
highlight her unwavering commitment to ensuring her family and her
business thrive while keeping in mind the saying “Kung may tiyaga,
may nilaga”.
2008 was a year that was significant for Ms. Valentin. She entered
the challenging world of business. Ms. Valentin started a car buy and
sell business from a starting capital of Php300,000.00. Due to the
changing economic landscape and the growing needs of her family, she
expanded her business by also selling tires, meat products, and rice.
One might ask her, “Why pursue selling various products?” The
answer: Her children. Ms. Valentin has four kids, all of whom were in
school, with her spouse, Mr. Romeo Valentin, who was also a vendor.
They both dedicate their time in making sure the needs of their children,
whether moral support or through monetary means, are met. She also
has a dream of expanding her business so that, in due time, this could
be inherited by her children.
However, the business industry was unpredictable. Ms. Valentin also
experienced downturns in her business, but through her persistence
and her trust in the Lord’s plans, these downturns were just hurdles in
the grand scheme of things. Throughout it all, the NSCC MPC provided
the help needed by Ms. Valentin. She has been a member and patron
of the cooperative’s services for 17 years, and she serves as a
testament to the NSCC MPC’s commitment to serving individuals and
their coommunities.

“Ang tagumpay ay walang humpay na pagsusumikap, pagtitiyaga sa
kabiguan o pagsubok at sinasamantala ang pagkakataon”- Ms. Mayline
Custudio said to us. Echoing the words of Henry Sy Sr. “In good times, I I
do my usual work. But in bad times, I work harder.”
These words had an impact on Ms. Mayline Custudio, especially in
running her business. 2015 was the year that she and her family decided to
venture into aluminum and glass fabrication. The store which they named
“Andrea’s Aluminum and Glass supply” is located at Brgy. 1-N Ricarte,
Batac City, Ilocos Norte. Her mission on why they have establshed this
store, encapsulates what kind of person Ms. Custudio is altruistic. She
shared that her goals primarily was to help generate jobs and improve the
local economy in their area, aside from being able to provide the daily
needs of her family.
She attributes a part of the success of
he business to her belief that if one is
diligent, patient, trustworthy, and
courteous in their dealings with
customers and the business itself, the
business was sure to prosper. This
belief was something Ms. Custudio
practiced religiously. A hard worker
through and through. She is always
seeking ways to improve the business ,
ranging from a thourough understanding
of their customers to coming up with
new ideas and designs for their
products.
But like any other business theirs has also encountered challenges. The pandemic proved to be one of it.
Operations for their business ceased during this time, resulting in losses. She also cites the emergence of other
stores in the same line of business as theirs as a problem. “Ngunit hindi kami nawalan ng pag-asa, binibigay pa
rin namin ang best namin para matugunan ang mga pangangailangan ng aming mga customers. Trust [na]
good quality ang aming mga ginagawang aluminum windows, doors, cabinets, at iba pa.” (But we did not lose
hope, we still continue to give our best to meet the needs of our customers. You can trust that the aluminum
product's we make are of good quality.)
She credits the other part of her success to her membership with NSCC MPC. She has been a member for a
couple of years and she lauds the cooperative for its trustworthiness, noted for being one of the largest and
succesful coopetive who offers quality service, low interest rates, and support to agriculture.
“Ang laki ng tulong ng NSCC MPC sa aming buhay at negosyo. Dahil sa kanila nasimulan namin ang aming
negosyo noong sa kanila kami humiram ng puhunan mula sa umpisa hanggang ngayon ay miyembro pa rin
ako” (NSCC MPC helped me and my family tremendously. Through them, we were able to start our business
and until now we are still members)

“No Guts, No Glory” is a motto that Ms. Evelyn Justo
lives by. Ms. Justo was blessed with a big family; she
bore 6 children, all of whom were still in school. At that
time, her husband was the sole provider of the family,
working as a police officer in Camp Bado Dangwa. Ms.
Evelyn, wanting to help her husband, devised a plan. A
sari-sari store seemed a great idea to her. She pondered
hard on the pros and cons of starting a business, she
acknowledged the challenges she may face, but one
motto she swears by in her life was “ No guts, No glory” .
Trusting her capabilities and tenacity, Ms. Evelyn
established her sari-sari store in 2013.
“By the Grace of God, the business thrived,” she told us, “but as the years went by and the store boomed,
there was a need for more capital.” NSCC MPC was her beacon of Hope, who trusted her implicitly and vice
versa. The cooperative was her partner in making sure her small business could grow even bigger. Things
seemed to be going for the better for M. Justo; five out of her six children were able to finish school, but a
family tragedy occurred: her beloved husband passed away. It was a time bathed with grief for Ms. Evelyn and
her children, but Ms. Evelyn remained resilient amidst this very painful challenge. Shewas determined to
continue the business and support her remaining child, who was still in school. The guts she has and the trust
she has in the Lord have been monumental in the success of her business and her family life.
Now, Ms. Justo has two sari-sari stores. “ May mga ups
and downs din ang business minsan dahil parte na ng
buhay iyan basta wag lang tayong susuko at manalig sa
Panginoong Diyos siya ang gagabay sa atin pang-araw
araw na buhay at nasa atin naman ang gawa. “ ( The
business also has ups and downs, that is part of life.
What we can do is to never give up and trust in the Lord
who will guide us in our day-to-day life”.
She expressed her deep thanks to NSCC MPC for helping her children achieve their dreams as well as hers, a
business that can thrive for a long time. “Huwag tayong mahiyang mangutang ng puhunan kung alam naman natin
na gagamitin natin eto sa ikagaganda ng buhay natin.” she shared words meant for her fellow members.
“Maraming Salamat po sa NSCC na magbigay sa akin ng malaking pagtitiwala at ako’y pinautang ninyo na siyang
dahilan kung bakit ako umangat at umasenso sa buhay.”- Ms. Evelyn Justo