Four Guimaras youths complete DTI’s YEP-BYOB Program

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Guimaras proudly announced the successful completion of the Regional Youth Entrepreneurship Program, “Be Your Own Boss” (YEP-BYOB), by four aspiring young entrepreneurs from the province. This initiative, held in partnership with USAID 2.0, aims to nurture the nation’s youth into successful entrepreneurs through comprehensive interventions.

The following completers were celebrated for their innovative business ideas:

1. Dayzel Grace Chavez – Dayzelicious Foods
2. Ian John Sorongon – Cocovegan Delights
3. Jevel Von Grate – Touring Temptations
4. Rodney Garolacan – Rodie’s KaDarag’an

Notably, two participants from Guimaras secured top positions in the Regional Pitching event held on July 5, 2024, at District 21 Hotel in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

Out of 30 participants, Jevel Von Grate’s “Touring Temptations” and Rodney Garolacan’s “Rodie’s KaDarag’an” ranked fourth and fifth, respectively. Both entrepreneurs were awarded a cash prize of Php5,000.00 each to support their business ventures.

YEP-BYOB is a capacity-building workshop designed to support the government’s economic goal of reducing inequality and improving the living standards of Filipinos, particularly the youth, by helping them realize their potential as development partners and agents.

The three-day workshop, conducted from July 3-5, 2024, covered four comprehensive modules:

1. My Business
2. My Business Operations
3. My Resources and Finances
4. My Business Pitch

“The success of the Guimaras participants in YEP-BYOB underscores the program’s effectiveness in fostering young talent and driving economic growth at the grassroots level,” according to a DTI press statement.

“By equipping youth with entrepreneurial skills and mindsets, the program aims to create a new generation of business leaders who will contribute to local economic development and job creation. Start them young by honing their talents and capabilities, and we will surely produce smart and successful entrepreneurs in the future.”