31/07/2026
JHMC, DTI, and DSWD LAUNCH PINE NEEDLE LIVELIHOOD TRAINING
The John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC), in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), spearheaded a livelihood training program introducing innovative ways to manage pine needles and transform them into marketable arts and crafts.
The training was facilitated by Ms. Maurcia Labitoria-Carpio of Everything Pine, who guided participants in creating handcrafted products, including earrings, necklaces, and headpieces. These items demonstrated how pine needles can be repurposed into commercially valuable goods, promoting both creativity and sustainability.
To complement the workshop, Mr. Grayson Gonzalo of DTI conducted sessions on product costing and pricing strategies, equipping participants with the skills to compute costs and set competitive prices. Prior to the activity, DTI also provided an orientation on becoming successful micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) owners, underscoring the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset and business readiness.
JHMC and DSWD engaged beneficiaries of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) to broaden their capacity, encourage product diversification, and urged barangays within the John Hay Reservation Area to re-echo the training to their constituents. The integration of pine needles into existing crafts, such as crochet and other handmade items, is envisioned to enhance livelihood opportunities and strengthen community enterprises.
Participants came from barangays within the John Hay Reservation Area, as well as nearby communities, including Green Valley and Atok Trail, reflecting the initiative's wider reach and inclusivity.
