Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II launches livelihood training program for women in Marikina

The Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II, Philippines, conducted “MANÍNG-MANÍ” or "JUST PEANUTS!" a livelihood training program designed to help women from indigent families in Marikina gain practical entrepreneurial skills through the production and sale of peanut-based products.

Held on 13 November 2025, at Marikina City Hall, the project gathered 35 housewives from various barangays across Marikina for hands-on training focused on making peanuts, garlic chips and coated peanuts. The training was conducted by Julie Apali, a nail technician and entrepreneur who raised seven children through her peanut-selling business, all of whom are now college graduates and employed.

Apali was selected as the trainer to inspire participants through her personal story of perseverance and economic independence. The project also received support from Marikina Councilor Carl Africa.

During the session, participants learned step-by-step preparation techniques and received practical advice on starting and managing a small business. Each attendee was also provided with a starter kit containing ingredients needed to begin producing the food items immediately. Organizers said the initiative aimed to help beneficiaries establish small peanut-selling businesses in time for the Christmas season.

The project continued beyond the initial training. On 27 January 2026, club President Shirley Licup personally visited four beneficiaries to monitor their progress, provide encouragement and gather feedback to improve the program.

Among those visited were Luzmarie Macaraig, a 57-year-old widow supporting one child through selling repacked condiments; Celestina Bunao, a widow with four children; Mylene Pajarillo, a married mother of two; and Nenita Javier, a 57-year-old single woman.

Macaraig shared how the program helped her after the sudden loss of her husband.

“It’s a good thing I was taught how to cook peanuts for a business,” Macaraig said. “I earned income by selling peanuts in schools. I’m grateful that you taught me a business which has now become my source of income for our daily needs.”

The initiative supports efforts to reduce women’s vulnerability to gender-based violence by promoting economic empowerment and financial independence. By equipping women with livelihood skills and resources, organizers said the program helps participants gain confidence, earn income and build greater stability for themselves and their families.

The club added that the project is especially important to the Marikina community because it directly addresses the economic struggles faced by women from low-income households while creating practical opportunities for sustainable income generation.