TAGUIG CITY, Metro Manila—The PNOC Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS) organized a two-part entrepreneurship training series aimed at empowering employees through practical and income-generating skills. The workshops focused  on self-sufficiency, creativity and confidence-building, supporting PNOC employees—particularly women associates—through hands-on learning experiences in emerging small business ventures.

On March 21, 2025, the series kicked off with a barista and coffee shop business workshop. Facilitated by coffee industry expert Ronald P. Peña, the session provided a deep dive into the history and evolution of the coffee industry in the Philippines. Thirty participants also learned about various coffee bean roasts and brewing techniques, gaining  a deeper appreciation of the craft of  coffee-making as well as insights into the operational side of starting a coffee business.

Participants also engaged in a hands-on activity—crafting their own coffee beverages and experiencing the basics of barista work firsthand. Each attendee received a barista starter kit to encourage continued practice and explore potential business opportunities in the coffee sector.

The session delved into the fundamentals of fragrance formulation, from selecting scent notes to mastering blending techniques. Participants were also introduced to branding and packaging strategies, which are essential components of launching a successful fragrance line. The workshop concluded with a creative exercise where participants formulated their own signature scents to take home, along with a starter kit for continued experimentation.

The back-to-back training sessions reflect PNOC’s ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and support women’s empowerment in the workplace. More than just a celebration, Women’s Month serves as a call to action for uplifting women in all aspects, encouraging them to explore new opportunities and take the lead in their own entrepreneurial journeys.