KMBI Communi - K (Sustaining your Vitality) - Vol 8 No 4

ISSN 2243-8939

communi-k KMBI

VOL 8 NO 4

INSIDE:

Masaya Ba Ang Kliyente Mo?

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Dahil Babae S’ya

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A Journey to Success

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Mapping Your Pagbibigayan Success with |Faith sa Bagong “Level Up: Next Gen” (John 15:16) 1 and Perseverance Taon 14

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CONTENT VOLUME 8

NO 4

4th QUARTER 2011

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News Brief San Franz promotes holistic transformation Davao holds first area gala

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Organizational news KMBI marks 25th year; installs CEO

“Masaya” experience unveiled 4 6 750 mahogany planted in Mt. Naganaga

Leaders’ Edge

ENTREP 101:

Masaya ba ang Kliyente Mo? 7

Welcome to the Life After Debt 13 Pagbibigayan sa Bagong Taon 14 Mapping Your Success with Faith and Perseverance 16

MF Index Dahil Babae S’ya 8

Calamity-stricken clients given relief 5

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Tips

Feature Story

Save It Up! 17 What to do with Leftovers 18

A Journey to Success 12

Cover Story Level Up: Sustaining Your Vitality 10

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Kwento mo ba to?

Gapas, Pagsilip sa Buhay-Magsasaka 19

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Organizational Performance 20

Project Update 20 IT tests PATH System

IMEP prototype testing continues

THE PRESIDENT’S NOTE

EDITORIAL BOARD Rizaldy R. Duque Editor-in-Chief Marissa M. Dela Rosa Managing Editor Lea J. Gatpandan-Domingo Editor Gellie Anne O. Abogado Associate Editor Ma. Jasmin D. Conquilla Liza D. Eco Merry U. Francisco Rose R. Peña Junel C. Villamor Contributors John David I. Ulangca Graphics Design

The year 2011 reminds me of a Facebook status I quoted from Albert Einstein, “the greater the problem, the greater the opportunity.”

The challenges God allowing us to experience are not just mere tests of our faith; but something that will help us grow. And everytime we overcome a challenge means we have become better. However, we need to be reminded that our success is not because of our strength or capabilities.

Remember that God gave His only begotten son Jesus Christ to die on the cross and save us from the penalty of our sins - death. This sacrificial act of God is a proof and assurance that as long as He is with us, we can overcome all the challenges that will come along our way. Thus, as we look at 2012, let us always keep in mind what Ephesians 3:20 tells us, “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us.” The challenges may be endless and there may be times we will fall down. But together with God, we will always rise and overcome everything...and even become a better version of ourselves.

In this issue, we talk about “Vitality” as the ability to sustain our energy, as well as our faith in God as we tackle the challenges ahead of us. My personal prayer for all of us in KMBI is that everyone will have vitality as we give our best foot forward in contributing to the accomplishment of our goal.

Masaya dito sa KMBI!!!

Eduardo C. Jimenez President

Hector H. Celajes, Jr. Jefferson T. Ng Circulation For editorial, contributions, suggestions and inquiries, please contact: RM & C Department Kabalikat para sa Maunlad na Buhay, Inc. 12 San Francisco St., Karuhatan Valenzuela City 1441 Philippines Email: leagatpandan@kmbi.org.ph

Mayroon ka bang natatanging kwento na gusto mong ibahagi?

Narito na ang KWENTO MO BA ‘TO? na magbibigay daan sa mga natatanging kwento ng mga empleyado sa operation. Anuman ang iyong posisyon...anuman ang iyong kwento, mapa-drama, comedy, o action, basta’t sumasalamin sa totoong karanasan sa operation ay tiyak na pasok ang kwento mo dito!

Ipadala lamang ang iyong kwento at larawan sa pamamagitan ng email sa leagatpandan@kmbi.org.ph “Level Up: Next Gen” (John 15:16) |

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News Briefs

San Franz promotes holistic transformation

San Francisco Branch staff during the clean up drive.

Actively promoting holistic transformation, KMBI San Francisco branch organized clean up drive, sportsfest and Christmas Caroling Competition during the 4th quarter of 2011 and was able to enjoin some 600 staff and program members participants and volunteers.

prevention, volunteers of the clean up drive cleaned the town proper of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. “We decided to organize this activity because we noticed that some residents carelessly throw their trash in the canals which causes flooding here,” said Reynaldo Cayao, San Francisco branch manager.

With the goal to promote a clean and green community and to help in flood

Meanwhile a sportsfest and Christmas Caroling Competition were conducted in

December to strengthen fellowship among program members and staff.

“After the activities, the program members became more participative and collection rate increased. It motivated them to be more active in their center meeting,” Cayao testified. These activities were conducted to contribute to KMBI’s effort of providing holistic interventions to communities it serves.

Davao holds first area gala result and we intended doing this annually,” said Amelita Andilab, Davao area manager.

“This activity developed further their staff’s confidence and we are happy they shared their hidden talents,” she added.

(L-R) Branch staff performing for the cheerdance competition; Lakan and Lakambini 2011 winners Anueto Baer and Kristine Flores.

To enrich camaraderie and sportsmanship some 69 staff of Davao area branches gathered together at Pasig Islet Bato, Davao del Sur for a day filled with fun and excitement in their first Area Gala on November 26, 2011.

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Among the major activities were volleyball, cheer dance competition, parlor games, and the search for the Area Lakan and Lakambini 2011. “This is the first time we’ve done this kind of activity. We are encouraged with the

Metro Davao 1 branch program assistants Anueto Baer and Kristine Flores were crowned as Area Lakan and Lakambini 2011. The branch also bagged the prize for cheerdance competition, while Kidapawan branch championed the volleyball competition.

Aside from Andilab, Russen Escalon and William Mejorada, graced the said event and served as judges for the competitions.

News Briefs

750 Mahogany planted in Mt. Naganaga October 1, 2011.

The activity was part of the “Adopt a Mountain” program in Utap, Tacloban City organized by the local government and implemented by PENRO (Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer).

According to Myla Idaloy, Tacloban branch manager, “This project practices stewardship.

It does not only do tree planting but also taking care of the seedlings we planted.”

“We need to oversee whether the seedlings

Antonio Higno, officer-in-charge of PENRO in the area, orienting the Tacloban branch staff and program members before proceeding with the tree planting activity.

Some 118 staff and program Members of KMBI Tacloban Branch planted 750 Mahogany seedlings in Mt. Naganag on

will grow and ensure replacement for seedlings that didn’t grow. For five years the area will be under our care,” added Idaloy.

The officer-in-charge of PENRO, Antonio Higno, guided and facilitated the participants. They were taught how to properly plant and care for the seedlings.

“The experience brought many learning and realizations. Nature has so many wonderful gifts that man did not only enjoy but also destroyed. We were created to be the earth’s steward, therefore, it is our responsibility to take care of it,” said Christopher Remegio, program unit supervisor.

Calamity-stricken clients given relief Malolos and Urdaneta branches. Almost Php350,000 worth of relief goods were distributed. “I am very thankful for the help KMBI extended to us. Aside from food, we now have roof for tonight,” said Divina Malunes, a program member of West Avenue branch who lives and provides for her family through selling pandesal in the morning and balot at night.

According to Amelia Magpayo, transformation coordinator, the program members were surprised to know that KMBI does not only help them through an additional capital for their businesses but even during calamities.

Amelia Magpayo (extreme right), Concepcion Parantar (right) and Glenn Parsacala (back), help in distributing relief goods to the victims of typhoon Pedring in Malolos, Bulacan.

KMBI provided relief to its program members affected by calamities during the fourth quarter of 2011.

The relief operations were held for clients of West Avenue branch affected by fire and victims of typhoons Quiel and Pedring from

“KMBI does holistic transformation and we want our clients feel that we are willing to help even during times of calamities,” added Magpayo.

“Level Up: Next Gen” (John 15:16)

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5

Organizational News

KMBI marks 25th year; installs new CEO

(L-R) Head Office staff during the praise and worship part of the celebration; Installation of new leaders, Eduardo Jimenez, KMBI President and CEO; Dr. Ricardo Jumawan, KMBI Vice Chairman and Vice President.

On October 28, 2011, KMBI marked its 25th year of facilitating holistic transformation towards poverty alleviation through a weeklong celebration held in its branches nationwide together with staff and program members. Head office staff were also enjoined in a celebration held at the Pearl Manila Hotel.

During the head office celebration, KMBI

board of trustees took the opportunity to install Mr. Eduardo Jimenez as president and chief executive officer, while Dr. Ricardo Jumawan as the vice chairman and vice president. In his message, Jimenez encouraged staff to affirm who God is, commit to the vision and mission of the organization, trust God, and serve and continue to serve without losing identity as a leader. “Twenty-five years from now we may

not be around anymore; but the works of God through KMBI will progress,” said Jimenez.

The Microfinance Council of the Philippines, represented by its executive director, Ms. Lalaine Joyas, along with Center for Community Transformation, graced the celebration and witnessed the installation ceremony.

“Masaya” experience unveiled fulfillment and happiness that one gets while staying in KMBI. The new campaign will take the staff and program members to an experience of satisfaction and commitment in fulfilling and living the mission and vision of KMBI. Gearing up for the new year ahead,KMBI unveiled its latest campaign dubbed as “Masaya Dito Sa KMBI!!! aiming to imbibe, explore and nurture the concept of

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“Masaya dito sa KMBI!!! is all about experience, connection, and happiness.

It’s about bringing to life the culture where every staff and program member is doing great work, having fun and

happy. It will exhibit the humane side of microfinance in the lives of its staff and program members,” said Rizaldy Duque, Resource Mobilization and Communications director.

Inspired by the spirit of blessedness, KMBI will launch its masaya campaign on February 2012 with simultaneous activities nationwide in 71 branches and at the Head Office. Program members wouldn’t be left out as launching of the said campaign would follow in every ENTREP Centers nationwide.

Leaders’ ENTREPEdge 101

Masaya Ba Ang Kliyente Mo? Ni Merry Francisco

S

a anumang industriya, ito man ay isang organisasyon gaya ng KMBI o isang maliit na sari-sari store lamang, ang kostumer at manggagawa ay mayroong napakahalagang papel na ginagampanan, pareho silang maituturing bilang kliyente ng isang industriya. Sila ang dahilan kung bakit ang isang industriya ay umuunlad o bumubulusok pababa. Kapag ang kustomer ay hindi napahalagahan, maaaring ito ay mawala, ganoon din ang manggagawa.

Kaya naman parehong mahalaga ang manggagawa at kostumer. Sa artikulong ito ay tatawagin natin silang pareho bilang “kliyente.”

sa kanilang pangangailangan. Kaya naman mahalaga na malaman natin ang kanilang pangangailangan at hangarin sa buhay.

Alin ba sa mga iyon ang kayang tugunan ng ating mga serbisyo? Ito ang dapat nating pagtuunan ng pansin.

Mahalaga na maalagaan at pag-ingatan natin ang ating mga kliyente dahil sila ang susi sa tagumpay ng ating industriya.

Pero paano nga ba ito magagawa? Narito ang mga paraan upang gabayan tayo sa pagpapanatili ng ating mga kliyente.

Palabra de Honor Ibigay ang naipangako. Simple lamang ito pero marami ang nahihirapan na tuparin ang bagay na ito. Kung sa tingin mo ay hindi mo kayang ibigay sa iyong kliyente ang isang bagay, mas makabubuti na huwag mo muna itong ipangako upang makaiwas sa mas malaking gulo o di kaya ay makasira sa pangalan ng negosyo at organisasyon.

Tandaan na ang kliyente ay may mga kapamilya, kaibigan at kapitbahay na maaari nilang pagsabihan ng mga naganap. Kaya dapat tayong maging maingat sa pagbibitiw ng salita at ugaliing gawin kung ano man ang naipangako.

Pagkilala at Paghingi sa Kanilang Opinyon Tandaan na ang opinyon o saloobin ng ating mga kliyente ay importanteng mapakinggan, dahil sila ay may kalayaang mamili kung sino o alin ang makatutugon

Pagpapahalaga sa Kliyente Kung inyong maaalala ang Hierarchy of Needs ni Maslow, isinasaad dito na nais maramdaman ng lahat na sila ay mahalaga o pinapahalagahan. Sa mga kostumer natin

na maayos nating nakakatransaksyon, bigyang pansin ang buting idinudulot ng pagiging parte nila sa organisasyon. Maari silang bigyan ng papuri o di kaya naman ay maliit na regalo upang maramdaman naman nila na sila ay kabahagi ng ating ginagawa at hindi lang basta kliyente. Maigi rin na huwag nating laging hanapan ng mali ang kanilang mga ginagawa lalo na sa manggagawa. Bagkus, mas bigyang pansin natin ang mga mabubuting nagagawa nila na nakatulong sa negosyo o organisasyon.

Ito ay makapagbibigay motibasyon sa kanila na mas maging confident sa pagtatrabaho.

Ang mga kliyente ng isang industriya ay ang pinakamahalagang sangkap upang maging matagumpay; kaya naman nararapat lamang na alagaan natin sila at ipakita natin na tayo ay may tunay na pagpapahalaga sa kanilang kapakanan at pag-unlad.

Merry Franciso has been with KMBI for 2 years as Enterprise Development associate. Her stint relating directly with clients has gradually encouraged her to hone her craft in entrepreneurship, thus, contributing to improved business mindset of clients.

“Level Up: Next Gen” (John 15:16)

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MF Index

Dahil Babae

“S’ya”

Ni Gellie Anne Abogado

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MF Index

B

ata pa lamang tayo ay kinamulatan na natin na ang ating INA ang siyang ilaw ng tahanan. Ito ay sa kadahilanang siya ang nagbibigay liwanag sa ating mga kaisipan at humuhubog sa mga anak upang maging responsableng mamamayan at magulang sa kanyang pamilya sa hinaharap.

Sa panahon ngayon, hindi lamang pang-loob ng tahanan ang ginagampanang tungkulin ng isang ina. Maraming mga ina na rin ngayon ang nagtatrabaho upang makatulong sa kanilang pamilya. Kaya naman ito ang nakitang oportunidad ng KMBI upang mas pagtuunan ng pansin ang mga kababaihan na kadalasang napagkakaitan ng pagkakataon upang linangin ang kanilang kaalaman at kakayanan.

“Natatangi ang mga kababaihan kaya sila ang mas pinili ng KMBI na tulungan,” wika ni Rhany Barrera, acting operations director.

Ano nga ba ang dahilan ng KMBI at ang mga kababaihang maliliit na negosyante ang kanilang nais tulungan?

Sa Paghawak ng Pera. Ayon sa pagsasaliksik na ginawa ni Dr. Mohammad Yunus, ang mga kababaihan ay mas mapagkakatiwalaan pagdating sa pagbabayad ng utang at mas iniisip ang mga maaaring mangyari sa hinaharap. Bukod dito ang mga kababaihan na mayroong maliit na negosyo ay ginagamit ang kanilang kinikita para sa kanilang pamilya. Karaniwan din na ang mga kababaihan, lalo na ang mga ina, ang bihasa sa pagba-budget para sa kanilang pamilya. Kung patuloy silang mabibigyan ng pagkakataon na mapalago ang kanilang kita ay malaking ginhawa ang maitutulong nito.

Sa pamamagitan ng pagtulong sa mga kababaihan sa kanilang pagbabago, bilang ilaw ng tahanan, sila ang nagiging daluyan nito sa kanilang pamilya upang maisabuhay din ang transformation at mas mapalapit sila sa Panginoon.

Women Empowerment. Noong unang panahon, ang mga kababaihan ay nakararanas ng diskriminasyon, napagkaitan sila ng pagkakataon na makapag-aral at mapaunlad ang sarili dala ng patriarchal society o ang ibig sabihin ay tanging mga lalaki lang ang dapat na magtrabaho at ang babae ay nasa bahay lamang upang mag-alaga ng mga anak.

Hindi naman na uso ito sa kasalukuyan pero nakikita pa rin ng KMBI ang pangangailangan ng mga kababaihan na matulungan sa kanilang pag-angat. Nais ng KMBI na tuluyang baguhin ang konseptong ito at hayaang makatulong din ang mga babae sa kanilang pamilya.

Bukod dito, natuturuan din ang mga kababaihan sa iba’t ibang aspeto tulad ng pangangalaga sa kalusugan, tamang pagpapamilya, pagkakaroon ng magandang relasyon sa Panginoon at marami pang iba na maaaring makatulong sa kanilang buhay.

Ayon kay Annalie Concepcion, administration director ng KMBI, “Dati ay mayroong lalaking program member ang KMBI ngunit kinalaunan ay umalis din ito at ang mga kababaihan ang nagpakita ng interes at dedikasyon sa pag-unlad.”

At dahil nga ang mga kababaihan ang madalas na naiiwan sa bahay, hindi ibig sabihin nito ay mananatili na lamang na ganoon ang kanilang gampanin. Nais ng KMBI na bigyan ng pagkakataon ang mga kababaihan na makatulong at maipakita ang kanilang kakayanan at kinalaunan ay mapaunlad hindi lamang ang kanilang sarili kung hindi pati na ang mga taong nakapaligid sa kanila.

Bilang babae, kapatid, asawa, anak o ina, gamitin natin ang ating angking kakayahan at karunungan sa kabutihan at sa ikauunlad hindi lamang ng ating sarili kundi pati na rin ng ating komunidad. Patuloy tayong magbigay liwanag at gabay sa ating pamilya tungo sa pakikipagkapwa at pagmamahal sa Panginoon. Ayon nga sa Kawikaan 30:31, “Mandaraya ang pangakit at kumukupas ang ganda, ngunit ang babaeng gumagalang at sumusunod kay Yahweh ay pararangalan.”

Sa Center Meeting. Ang mga babae ay mas aktibo sa pag-attend ng center meeting.

Ito ay sa dahilang ang mga babae ang kadalasang naiiwan sa bahay kaya naman sila ang mas nakadadalo sa center meeting.

Mahalaga na lumahok ang mga program members sa center meeting dahil dito ginaganap ang values formation.

“Level Up: Next Gen” (John 15:16)

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Cover Story

Sustaining Your VITALI

By Liza Eco

I

once read a qoutation “It is important to start, but it is more important to finish.” What we do and who we are in between the starting point and the finish line also matter. Regardless of roles we play in the organization, who we are, or what we do, defines our impact to the people and the communities we serve.

This is why we need to sustain our strength, our energy, towards the finish line. And here are some questions to ponder from the book Lead Like Jesus, which I believe can help us go on with all the zest and energy we need though problems may bump us side by side.

Heart Always check your heart. What is your motivation everyday. As a leader, whether as a head of the family, of your centers, or your department?

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Our heart is the wellspring of life. We need to ask ourselves, do I still have the same motivation when I get up everyday and walk through my office or centers? Be honest with yourself. If you are not convinced about what you are doing everyday, I suggest that you stop and pause for a while. If this job is not keeping you excited and motivated everyday, you will not last…you will soon run dry. Get your motivation in serving people from Christ, as we do our work, we know that we are doing it for our Lord Jesus Christ and not for men.

The road to the finish line is not easy. We may get frustrated, hurt, injured and doubt fall which may lead us to believe in lie that there is no hope and eventually, quit. However, when confronted with those situations, it is always best to align our hearts with God, and His

ITY

words. Let our hearts remain pure in His sight. Don’t just do things simply because we are told to do so or because others are doing it. Let us do things with hearts motivated by Jesus.

Habits How do you refresh and renew yourself?

With all the stress and disappointments we will encounter from starting point to finish line, we need to watch our habits. What do you do to recover? It is a universal law, we need to replenish… We need to recharge.

According to Human Capital Magazine, an Australian research says that employees who walk 10,000 steps a day, and work out in the gym three times a week can give their employer added productivity compared to non-active colleagues. Professor Paul Taylor, who led the research, said “The research showed that there is a very clear link between physical fitness and brain function, and reduced stress levels at work.” He added that there was a marked improvement in the employees’ mood and cognition from the exercise group, with the exercising group showing increase in overall brain function.

We need to have time to recover and ask ourselves: “What am I doing to balance the stress I am putting on myself? What relief am I giving myself to recover from the stress going on in my head?’

Organize desk/files. Mini workout. Write to do list. Plan an outing/vacation.

Remember: Revitalizing our lives means doing the hard work of changing behavior habits and patterns.

Some recovery ideas you can try out: These are just simple things to do. But you can do even more especially on your day off, like reading books, play time with kids, Stretch. Hydrate with water. Meditate. volunteer for an outreach program, etc. The Pray. Stand Up. Moisturize hands. Squeeze list can go on and on. You just have to make stress ball. Read daily inspiration. Look at sure that time spent away from your work, family pictures. Get a cup of coffee/water. will refresh you and get you going again Bathroom break. Doodle. Read a joke/comic. when you return to workplace!

Aromatherapy. Listen to a song. Laugh.

Psalm 1:3 says, ‘He is like a tree planted by the streams of water, that yield its fruit in 5 minutes: its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all Take a walk. Call a friend/family member. that he does, he prospers.’

Eat a snack. Look at a magazine. Talk to a co-worker. Make a shopping list. Walk up Sustaining our vitality? Check our Heart and and down the stair/hallway. Make small Habits regularly, for His glory! movements. Sing a song. Juggle. Send flowers. Brush your teeth. Check out a Liza Eco is a leader who website. Do the crossword puzzle. nurtures through patience and

2 minutes:

15 minutes

puts the needs of others before herself.

Take a brisk walk. Converse with a friend.

“Level Up: Next Gen” (John 15:16) “Level Up: Next Gen” (John 15:16)

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Feature Story

A Journey to

success

By Lea J. Gatpandan-Domingo

Joel Clavecilla Tandang Sora Branch Manager

P

eople often times associate success in being lucky and overlook faith in finding luck. This is how Joel Clavecilla, Tandang Sora branch manager, describes his journey in finding true success in life. He was one of those who chased their destiny to be happy; but God strengthened and led him in his journey.

Joel graduated with a degree of Bachelor of Arts in English at Manuel L. Quezon University in Manila. Prior to joining KMBI, Joel worked as a salesman, factory worker, and waiter. It was in 1994 when he was hired by KMBI as program assistant (PA).

He began his first leadership stint in 1999 as acting area manager in KMBI’s branch in General Santos City but he resigned in 2000 to provide better future for his family.

But Joel was determined to push his destiny further. He applied for work in Canada but it was denied and he ended up managing a small food business inside a school owned by his mother. With a meager earning, Joel decided to find a more regular source of income. His destiny didn’t get him down this time, he worked for four years with Opportunity Microfinance Bank and spent another year at Filipino Savings Bank.

Until one of his officemates offered him an opportunity to work in Macau. “All I want is a better future for my family, so I grabbed the opportunity.” Joel arrived in Macau as expected, but there was no job waiting for him.

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With his determination, he was able to get a job as a family driver in Macau. However, aside from being a driver, he had to clean his employer’s house and of his employer’s relatives with no additional income. “It was really tiring and I felt so sorry for myself, I decided to go back to the Philippines,” said Joel recalling his predicaments. After several months, Joel went home with nothing but his dignity.

In the Philippines, he was very thankful for having a supportive family. Together, they continued their small business. After six months, he tried to get in touch with KMBI hoping there’s an employment opportunity available for him. “I was offered a job as PA because no other position was open that time.” Joel humbly accepted the job even if it means a “demotion” from his former position in 2000. He told himself that he had to work hard to be able to get higher position later on. But getting there wasn’t easy. Problematic centers were passed on to him, and his job was to rehabilitate them. “It wasn’t easy because the policies and program that time was really different when I first worked at KMBI.” Joel had to study the new policies and program in order to identify and resolve the problems of the centers. After four years Joel was promoted as program unit supervisor and later on as branch manager of Tandang Sora in 2011.

Most people say, Joel has become an absolute walking testimony of his faith. His

success was way far from easy, but with his faith, success came along and proved that nothing is impossible.

Tips from Joel:

• Always find new things for your clients.

As PA, it is our obligation to make our center meeting enjoyable. You can browse topics over the internet or even with KMBI’s reading materials.

• To resolve center problems, always identify the root cause. Talk to your members or staff and go back to the basics of the operation. You will be surprised that the solution is there.

• Follow the procedures and avoid shortcuts to avoid problems later on.

• Enhance your relationship with people.

Always build good relationship with your clients and even with your boss. Trust starts with good relationship. Your clients or staff will simply follow your orders only if she/he trusts you • Leaders should have integrity. You should always stand with your word to gain respect.

• Treat PAR (Portfolio-at-Risk) like a computer virus. Get rid of it immediately because it will destroy your centers just like a computer virus corrupts files.

Lea Gatpandan-Domingo is the Publications Unit Head under the RM&C Department. Her staff consider her both as a mentor and a mother to them.

Leaders’ Edge

Welcome to the Life After Debt

By Ma. Jasmin Conquilla

D

o you believe that there is a debtfree life or even a life after debt?

Though it may seem impossible but breaking up with debts may come to reality if you are committed to do so.

In the previous issue of Communi-K, we provided you with some tips on how to get rid of those debts. Now, let’s do a fastforward and imagine that you’ve made it!

You worked hard, saved, and finally paid off all your debts. You are now in a debtfree life! Hooray! But what’s next? Are you going to treat yourself in a five star hotel abroad or pamper yourself in a spa for a job well done? What are your plans?

Breaking up with debts is just the first phase of financial freedom. You now have to face the life after debt. What if something unexpected came up? How long will you survive without debts? Well, it’s about time to set your long-term goal! Let me share with you some tips on how to maintain a debt-free life: Dream your life. How do you see yourself five to twenty years from now? Driving a new car? Moving in to your new home?

Retirement? Name your goal and be motivated to reach it. Make a motivational signs to help you reach your goal. Maybe you can place a small sign in your wallet

or in your computer with “I am buying a new house next year” or “I will get a retirement plan next quarter.” These signs should remind you about your goal. With that, you will think twice before buying anything.

Stick to your budget. You’re able to pay off your debts because you stick to your budget. Then, you have to be faithfully maintaining your budget regardless if you have paid off all your debts. Think before buying and remember the “needs vs. wants” rule. Determine essentials for living so you can eliminate unnecessary living expenditures. Cut up your credit cards. As much as possible, use your cash when purchasing.

Continue to save for rainy day.

Sometimes, something unexpected really happen that will blow your budget.

Continue to save money on a regular basis. It doesn’t matter if you saved up a lot of money what is important is you develop the habit of saving.

Review your budget regularly. After you created your first budget, you have to update it regularly to be relevant to your current needs. If you receive a salary increase, even a small amount, budget

should be updated so that you would know where to place your money. You’ll never know, while updating your budget you’ll discover that you can open another savings for leisure!

The primary difference in breaking up with debts and living your life after debt lies in your ability to control your finances thru sheer DISCIPLINE. Remember paying off your debts doesn’t end there. You need to continue to save for the rainy days and find ways to protect your savings to reach your ultimate goal. Enjoy saving!

References: http://www.netplaces.com/budgeting/stayingmotivated/sticking-with-your-budget-through-thickand-thin.htm http://www.netplaces.com/budgeting/stayingmotivated/reviewing-your-budget-periodically.htm http://www.thechristiandollar.com/how-to-stickwith-that-budget/

Jasmin Conquilla is the head cashier of KMBI. She’s not just known for handling money matters but also for cooking good food.

“Level Up: Next Gen” (John 15:16)

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13

Leaders’ Edge

Pagbibigayan Ni Rose Peña

M

aaaring tapos na ang

mapipiling organisasyon. Kung ito man ay pagbabalot ng damit, bigas, sardinas at iba, mas magiging mabilis ang gawain at agad na makakaabot sa mga beneficiaries.

kapaskuhan at ngayon nga ay sinasalubong na natin

ang bagong taon; ngunit hindi ibig sabihin 3. Magdonate ng dugo. Kung may pagkakataon at ikaw ay makapasa sa mga isasagawang physical fitness exam ng organisasyong tulad ng Red Cross,

nito na dapat na mamamatay ang diwa ng pagbibigayan tuwing araw ng Pasko sa ating mga puso. Ayon nga sa Galacia 6:9, “Kaya’t huwag tayong magsawa sa paggawa ng mabuti; pagdating ng takdang panahon tayo ay aani kung hindi tayo magsasawa.”

Ang pagbibigay at pagtulong sa kapwa ay nararapat lamang na walang pinipiling oras at panahon dahil sa oras naman na tayo

1. Buksan ang baul. Tumingin ng maaaring i-donate sa mga charitable institutions tulad ng damit, laruan at iba pang gamit. Maaaring maliit lamang ito para sa iyo at hindi na kailangan ngunit maaaring makapagbigay ng ngiti sa mas nangangailangan.

ang nangangailangan ay maaaring dito natin maramdaman ang importansya ng pagtulong sa kapwa. magdonate ng dugo. Hindi mo man makilala ang taong makatatanggap ng iyong regalo, alam mo pa rin sa sarili mo na naging instrumento ka sa pagdugtong ng buhay ng iba.

Alam naman natin lahat na tuwing Pasko ay dumodoble ang ating gastusin. Kaya naman kailangan nating maging malikhain sa pag-iisip ng iba pang pamamaraan upang makatulong at maipakita natin ang ating pagmamahal hindi lamang sa mga mahal sa buhay ngunit pati na rin sa ating kapwa kahit na sa simpleng pamamaraan lamang:

14 | Communi-K • vol. 8 no.4

2. Mag-umpisa o maging bahagi ng mga gawain ng isang charitable institution.

Kung walang makita sa inyong bahay na maaaring mapakinabangan ng iba pa nating kababayan, maaaring ibahagi ang inyong oras at kakayahan sa pagtulong upang makamit ang mga layunin ng

4. Maglaan ng mas mahabang oras sa pamilya at mahal sa buhay. Wika nga sa Ingles, “Time is gold.” Ang oras na lumipas ay hindi na maibabalik pa. Kaya naman tuwing araw ng pahinga, siguraduhing ito ay ilalaan mo para sa iyong pamilya.

sa Bagong Taon mga nagsisilbi sa ating komunidad tulad ng pulis, doktor, taga-linis ng kalsada, at marami pang iba, kung may pagkakataon ay suklian ng ngiti ang kanilang ginagawa. Isa ring biyaya ang pagpapatawad sa nakasakit sa atin. Ang kapatawaran ay maaaring maghatid ng mas magandang resulta sa ating buhay at sa ating pakikipagkapwa.

5. Alagaan ang Kalikasan. Makilahok sa mga “Go Green” campaigns. (1) Maglinis ng bakuran tuwing may pagkakataon, (2) gumamit ng mga eco bags kung mamimili at huwag nang ipa-plastic kung hindi naman talagang kailangan at (3) mag-segregate ng mga basura. Ito na ang ituring mong regalo mo sa Inang Kalikasan at sa mga nilalang na

nabubuhay dito.

6. Magpasalamat, ngumiti at magpatawad.

Ngayong bagong taon, nararapat lamang na simulang tumulong upang maging masigla ang buhay. Pasalamatan natin ang

mayroon tayo ay mula sa Kanya. Ibalik natin sa Panginoon ang papuri at biyayang para lamang sa Kanya. At sabi nga sa

Kanyang Salita, pagpapalain tayo ng Diyos nang higit pa sa ating inaakala.

7. Ibigay ang nararapat para sa Diyos.

Sinabi ng Diyos sa Malakias 3:10 na, “Dalhin ninyo nang buong-buo ang inyong mga ikasampung bahagi sa tahanan ng Diyos upang matugunan ang pangangailangan sa aking tahanan. Subukin ninyo ako sa bagay na ito, kung hindi ko buksan ang mga bintana ng langit at ibuhos sa inyo ang masaganang pagpapala.” Ang lahat ng

Ang Bagong Taon ay nagbibigay ng panibagong simula para sa ating lahat. Kaya naman ito ang oras upang bigyan natin ng magandang regalo si Hesus kasabay ng panibagong simula sa pamamagitan ng pagkalat ng kanyang salita at pagmamahal sa lahat ng kanyang nilikha.

Sanggunian: http://www.ecabezadelbuey.com/elbaul/imagenes, http:// www.tarkeeb.org/web/images/stories, http://jmhammett. files.wordpress.com/2011/02, http://images.mylot.com/ userImages/images

Rose Peña is a woman with a strong faith in God and known for her sunny disposition in life.

“Level Up: Next Gen” (John 15:16)

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15

Leaders’ Edge Leaders’ Edge

MAPPING YOUR SUCCESS WITH FAITH AND PERSEVERANCE

By Gellie Anne Abogado

I

f you have been listening to the radio you have definitely heard of Miley Cyrus’ song, The Climb, “There’s always gonna be an uphill battle, sometimes you gotta have to lose…” The song pretty much tells us that, along the way, there would definitely be times when we would fall down and even scrape our knees; but, it’s “ain’t about how fast I get there, ain’t about what’s waiting on the other side. It’s the climb.” True enough; if we persevere and push ourselves not to give up soon, we’ll reach our goal.

Trials do come, but it’s important to look past through them and focus on the goal.

What God Does In the Daily Devotionals blog by Oswald Chambers, our lives in the hands of God can be compared to a bow in an archer’s.

The Lord will continue to stretch and strain as He aims on something. He will keep on stretching until His purpose is in sight and then He lets the arrow fly. If we have a goal and we entrust the bow to God, He will aim at the goal and stretch us to our limits until such time when He thinks we are ready and is sure to hit the target. Once we give up to

16 | Communi-K • vol. 8 no.4

rest and steps out of the bow, we cannot just step in and continue. We need to restart and go through the same process which will consume more time and effort. Life will not wait for us. We are the ones who need to step up, adjust, and follow where life leads us.

Perseverance is the Key We need to ask for God’s provision to give us the value of perseverance in reaching our goals. Yes, we entrust everything to God but do you remember a line from a Francis M song which goes like this: “Nasa Diyos ang awa nasa tao ang gawa?” God will help us get to where we need to be. He will guide us to the right path but it’s always our choice if we will give up or stray from the path. In addition, perseverance doesn’t end when we get to where we wanted and needed to be. As Chambers said, “Perseverance is more than endurance – more than simply holding on until the end.” As long as we live we cannot just slack off and let other people do the rest. Life is a continuous learning and development and we should always keep that in mind.

Always Have Faith Believe and ask for His guidance. One of the reasons why a lot of us just give up is because of our lack of faith that He can truly provide. “Though He slays me, yet will I trust Him,” – Job 13:15. Trials come in everyone’s life. They come in different shapes and sizes; but truth remains that everyone has them.

Our lack of faith in God pulls us down from reaching our ultimate goal, and that is to be with God the Father in His Kingdom. We need to trust in His promise and His power to make things possible. When the going gets tough, face it and ask for His guidance.

He will surely bless us with His power and it will give us the strength to overcome the obstacles in reaching our goals.

Perseverance is one of the most important traits we need to possess and practice in order to succeed in life. There would be times when temptations will look at us squarely and obstacles will push us to give up. But always remember what the 2Chronicles 15:7 said, “… But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.”

Tips

Save it UP!

“Teaching kids the Value of Saving Money”

K

ids are kids, they are more excited expensive and would definitely teach when they have new stuff and they them the value of patience and discipline. have freedom to spend their baon buying those plastic toys and spiders and » Make them realize how important colored chicks sold near their school. For kids, money is. Just because they are kids it’s more valuable than saving their money. doesn’t mean that they do not have the capacity to comprehend things. Show Teaching kids the proper way of spending them how you budget your money and money is really important. As early as why a part of your income goes straight to possible, they have to realize that spending your savings. Explain to them, in simplest money on things which are unimportant is ways the advantages and value of saving not wise. So, as early as now, teach your kids up money for their future. Keep in mind the value of saving up and what they can do that there is no specific age in teaching with their savings. children the value of being thrifty. The earlier you teach them, the earlier they » Help them set a goal. The initial reaction will develop their sense of responsibility of kids when they get a peso is to quickly in handling money spend it to buy candies at the nearest store. Notice how their behaviors change » Excite them with a bank account. Most as they enter the mall. With their money parents now encourage kids to save. And safely tucked in their cutesy pocket, kids the best way to excite kids is to open literally drag every parent in the nearest a bank account with their names on it. shop to buy cheap toys they fancy. And Major Banks offer this kind of product you can’t even stop them because it’s with exciting offers or freebies. The their own money! Now the best defense thought of owning a pass book will not is to give them a little pep talk. Instead of only excite kids like the adults would buying those small toys, encourage them excite the kids but would definitely to just save up for a PSP which is more encourage them to save some of

their baon. » Talk About The Future. Again, it’s never too early to give your kids a pep talk. Tell them stories about difficulties of earning money and that is why as early as now, they should already be saving up. In the simplest way they can understand, try to show photos of people who do not have enough money and tell your kids how lucky they were they can save from their baon. Emphasize that the earlier they start to save, the bigger their money would be in the future; that way they won’t be homeless like the people in the pictures you’ve shown them.

No matter how young your children are, it is your responsibility as a parent to teach them the value of saving up. They are never too young to learn what is right All you need is to guide to them as they grow up.

“Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you strike him with a rod he will not die. If you strike him with the rod, you will save his soul from Sheol.” – Proverbs 23:13-14

“Level Up: Next Gen” (John 15:16)

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17

Leaders’ Edge Tips

What to do with

LEFTOVERS

By Marissa Dela Rosa

POTATO CROQUETTES

LECHON WITH COCO CREAM

HAM & MUSHROOM FRITTATA

Sangkap: Patatas Hamon Queso de Bola ½ tasa All purpose cream Bread crumbs 2 kutsara butter Asin Paminta Mantika

Sangkap: Lechon baboy 1 ½ tasa coconut cream 3 tali tanglad 1 kutsara Bawang 1 buo Sibuyas 1 kutsara Luya 1 buo bell pepper 2 piraso siling haba 1 tali dahon ng sili Asin Paminta

Sangkap: 8 pcs large size egg 2 kutsara full cream milk 1 tasa Hamon 1 tasa Button mushroom 1 tasa cheddar cheese 1 buo sibuyas ¼ tasa parsley o leeks Butter Asin Paminta

Paggawa: 1. Pakuluan ang patatas hanggang sa lumambot. Sa isang bowl, durugin ang patatas habang mainit pa. Ilagay ang butter, All purpose cream, asin at paminta. Haluin mabuti.

2. Hiwain ng maliliit na pakuwadrado ang hamon at Queso de Bola.

3. Kumuha ng kaunting patatas mixture at bilugin ito. Gamit ang daliri, butasan ito ng bahagya sa gitna at ipalaman ang hamon at Queso de bola. Bilugin muli at ipagulong sa bread crumbs.

4. Iprito sa kumukulong mantika hanggang sa maging golden brown.

18 | Communi-K • vol. 8 no.4

Paggawa: 1. Iprito ang lechon baboy hanggang sa lumutong ng bahagya. Itabi.

2. Sa isang kawali, igisa ang luya, sibuyas , bawang, tanglad, at siling haba. Idagdag ang kakang gata at pakuluin ng 5 minuto.

3. Ilagay ang lechon baboy, bell pepper, asin at paminta. Pakuluin muli ng 5 minuto bago ilagay ang dahon ng sili.

4. Pwede na itong ihain.

Paggawa: 1. Igisa sa butter ang sibuyas, hamon, button mushroom, asin, paminta. Palamigin.

2. Sa isang bowl, paghaluin ang itlog at full cream milk gamit ang wire whisk. Ihalo ang pinalamig na sangkap saka idagdag ang kalahating tasa ng cheddar cheese.

3. Ilagay ang mixture sa isang non-stick pan or tart pan. I-bake sa 350 degrees oven sa loob ng 20 minuto.

4. Makaraan ang 20 minuto, ilabas sa oven at ibudbod ang natirang keso. I-bake muli ng 10 minuto.

5. Kung wala namang oven, gamit ang non-stick pan, isalang ito sa ordinaryong lutuan at takpan. Hintayin na mag-set ang egg mixture bago ilagay ang natirang cheddar cheese.

Kwento mo ba ‘to?

Gapas

pagsilip sa buhay-magsasaka

S

abi nila, ang pagtatanim ay ‘di biro.

Ngunit wala itong sinabi pagdating sa paggagapas kung hirap din lang ang pag-uusapan. Maliban pa sa nakayuko ka, ang paggapas ay may kaakibat ding kati at panganib mula sa pagkukumpay.

Naisip ko ito nang bumisita ako kina Kuya Fernando, o mas kilala bilang Kuya Dodoy.

Panahon noon ng anihan, at marami silang nakakontratang gagapasin. Anim silang magkakamag-anak sa grupo, at kanilang gagapasin ngayon ang palayan ng kanyang kapatid. Inakala kong pagmamayabang lamang noong nabanggit n’yang sila ang pinakamabibilis, pero nagbago ang pananaw ko nung makita ko silang magtrabaho – may sistema na aakalain mo’y gawa ng makina.

Pasado tanghali na nang bumalik sila sa kanilang bahay para mananghalian. Nauna na ako sa kanila matapos magmeryenda noong bandang alas-10. Sinubukan ko rin kanina na maggapas, dahil kanina, ramdam ko ang kasiyahang kadalasang naidudulot ng anumang bago. Kalauna’y, sumuko rin ako’t umuwi dahil hindi ko rin naman matukoy ang hinog na palay sa hindi at wala rin akong maitulong.

Bumalik ako sa bahay ni Kuya Dodoy para kunin ang gamit at umuwi. Inisip kong bumalik pero pagod na rin ako’t wala ng lakas. Habang pauwi, naisip ko na kung ang bayad sa trabaho ay katumbas ng hirap ng

Ni Junel Villamor

paggawa nito, pinakamayaman na siguro sina Kuya Dodoy.

Lampas sa inaasahan kong oras nang bumalik sina Kuya Dodoy sa kanilang bahay.

Mahigit limang oras na silang nag-gagapas pero hindi pa rin tapos. Gutom na ang lahat pero kailangan pang maghintay na maluto ang pagkain. Sa maikling panahong ito ay nakakwentuhan ko si Kuya Dodoy, na natigil lamang nang kainan na.

Patapos na kami nang biglang buhos ang ulan. Basa na ang palay, at kailangan na nilang ipagpaliban ang paggapas sa ngayon. Unti-unti, kinalkula ni Kuya Dodoy ang magiging pagbabago sa kanyang skedyul. Wala na nga s’yang matatapos ngayon, madaragdagan pa ito ng pagspray kinabukasan sa kanyang sibuyas, na kailangang gawin tuwing may pag-ulan.

Laman ng kwento ni Kuya Dodoy kanina ang kanyang sibuyas, na bagamat lugi ay nagpapasalamat pa rin na babalik naman ang kanyang puhunan. Ang kanyang kalugihan dito ay ang di pagtanim ng gulay at pagbitaw sa ibang bukid dahil sa atensyon para sa sibuyas. Kaya ngayon, lumaki ang kanyang utang sa kanyang landlord. Wala na kasi s’yang mapaghugutan para sa baon ng kanyang mga anak at iba pang gastusin di tulad noong may gulayan pa s’ya. Buti na lamang ay walang pinapatong na interest ang kanyang landlord, dahil na rin sa

kanyang pagiging mabait na tenante. Pero nahihiya na rin s’ya at inaasahan nya na makabayad sa nalalapit n’yang pag-aani.

Sa loob pa ng dalawang linggo bago aani si Kuya Dodoy. Kaya sa ngayon, kailangan n’ya munang makigapas sa iba. Kung ang ulan sa pagtatanim ay kadalasang magandang bagay, kabaliktaran naman ito sa paggagapas.

Tumigil na rin ang ulan at umuwi na ako. At sa mabagal na usad ng aking sinasakyan, naalala ko ang lagi nilang sinasabi sa akin: mahirap ang pagsasaka, bugbugan ang trabaho, walang kasiguruhan ang investment, at ang mga magsasakang tulad ni Kuya Dodoy ay one-day millionaire.

At sa bagay na ito, naalala ko ang nangyari kanina lamang noong itinabi na ni kuya Dodoy ang kanyang kumpay: naglabas s’ya ng pera at tinawag ang anak para magpabili, sabay nakangiting bigkas na, “kailangan din sir na magsaya.” Tila ba ang katatapos na hirap ay nagiging pwersang umuudyok para piliting makamtam ang sayang inaasam, sa kabila man ng pagod, hirap o gastos.

Junel Villamor is currently the Product Development Associate.

Often seen as someone who is quiet and serious but loves a good game of chess and playing table tennis.

“Level Up: Next Gen” (John 15:16)

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19

Organizational Performance

4th Quarter 2011 Efficiency

Indicators Loan Activity

Cost per Unit Lent*

Php 0.22

Cost per Loan Made*

Php 1303.62

Financial Self-Sufficiency

104%

Operational Self-Sufficiency

106.55%

Client Outreach

266,343

Loan Portfolio

Php646.40M

Value of Loans Made

Php2.18B

Ave. No. o f Client per PA

274

MF Operations

1237

No. of Loans Made

360,584

Support Group

98

Number of Staff

*Peso-dollar conversion as of December 31, 2011 – Php 43.70

Our Vision

“To see people in communities live in abundance with strengthened faith in God and in right relationship with their fellowmen and the rest of creation”

Project Update

Our Mission

IT tests PATH System The Information Technology division conducted a pilot testing of PATH System or Payroll, Attendance, Time Keeping, and Human Resources Information System on October 2011. Data were migrated while human resources staff were oriented on Human Resource Information System (HRIS).

The system has two major features such as Employee 201 File, and Employee Portal.

“At first, they had difficulties in using the new system, but after the presentation and

pilot testing, the users appreciated the advantages and how easy it was to access the information they would need,” said Ronel Castor, Application Development officer.

“The PATH System is a good tool that can respond to the concerns of the Human Resource Department and also the staff who can view updated information,” added Castor. By end of 2012, IT Division is aiming to roll out the said system all KMBI.

IMEP prototype testing continues Individual Micro Enterprise Program or IMEP, an Individual loan program of KMBI, continues its prototype testing in Davao area. The program currently serves three clients wherein the first two clients are on their second loan cycle. For the initial intervention, the program already disbursed a total of Php750,000.

IMEP. She expressed her interest as early as January 2011 and she never stopped following up on the status of her application.

It was very inspiring. We hope that her business will continuously grow with the help of IMEP,” said Mishell Malabaguio, senior product development associate.

IMEP welcomed its third client, Emily Salang, a printing press owner and a program member of Metro Davao 1. Salang received a loan amounting to Php150,000 on December.

“Her commitment and eagerness to grow her business is really a key factor in being picked for

For continuous advancement of the program, a Client Profiling Study for 70 clients was conducted in areas of Mindanao.

The initial report of the study is currently on its preparation stage.

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“KMBI is a Christ-centered development organization, existing to help transform the lives of its clients by providing sustainable microfinance, training & demand driven non-financial services”

Core Values Respect Integrity Stewardship Commitment to the Poor Discipline Innovation Excellence

Kabalikat para sa Maunlad na Buhay, Inc. Head Office: KMBI Bldg., 12 San Francisco St., Karuhatan, Valenzuela City Tel (02) 291.1484 to 86 l Fax (02) 292.2441 http://www.kmbi.org.ph