“Todo Negosyo! Financial Literacy and Business Management Program” On March 25, 2025, Ascot under the SABM (School of Accountancy and Business Management) conducted an extension program titled Todo Negosyo! at the Barangay Hall, Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora. This initiative, part of a six-year collaboration extension program, aimed to equip male and female entrepreneurs and business staff with essential knowledge on financial literacy and business management. The event was made possible through the collective efforts of the faculty members and administration, led by Mrs. Ella Mercedita S. Flores, the Extension Coordinator of SABM, along with her cofaculty members Associate Prof. Arlene Dulay, Ma’am Kim Macalood, and Sir Troy Olivar. The main objective of the Todo Negosyo! program was to: Improve financial literacy among entrepreneurs in Brgy. Sabang, especially in managing finances effectively. Enhance business management skills, focusing on the practical application of financial tools for sustainable business growth. Provide an avenue for entrepreneurs to gain access to expert advice and resources. Foster collaboration between Ascot’s faculty members and local entrepreneurs for future projects and development.

The program began promptly at 8:00 AM with the opening remarks by Mrs. Ella Mercedita S. Flores, who introduced the goals of the extension program and emphasized the importance of financial literacy and business management for local entrepreneurs. A total of 71 participants, including male and female entrepreneurs, business staff, and community members, attended the event. The activities included a series of informative sessions designed to address both financial literacy and business management challenges. The morning session of the seminar focused on Government Business Regulations, offering insights into the essential aspects of running a business in compliance with various legal frameworks. The session was well-received, with each speaker sharing their expertise in key areas relevant to businesses today. Atty. Racquel R. Dunjunco, CPA and Dean of the College of Law, was the first speaker, providing an in-depth discussion on the importance of taxes, licensing, and permits for businesses. Atty. Dunjunco emphasized the necessity of registering a business properly and outlined the specific requirements needed to ensure a business operates legally. She explained the processes involved in obtaining the correct licenses, paying taxes, and securing the necessary permits from the relevant government bodies. Her talk provided clarity on how essential these steps are to avoid penalties and to establish a business as a legitimate entity.

Next, Mr. Bryan Omar D. Sardea, Senior Trade Industry Specialist of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), took the stage to talk about Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), focusing specifically on patents and trademarks. Mr. Sardea underscored the significance of protecting a business’s innovations and brand identity through patents and trademarks. His presentation highlighted how intellectual property rights are crucial for ensuring that businesses can safeguard their products, services, and unique ideas from unauthorized use or replication. He stressed that these legal protections are vital for any MSME that wants to grow and compete in a global marketplace. The final speaker of the morning session was Mr. Heinrich O. Villanueva, Senior Science Research Specialist of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). He delivered a comprehensive presentation on the different forms of assistance provided by DOST to businesses, particularly focusing on product development and innovation. Mr. Villanueva shared the available programs and services that DOST offers to help businesses, especially small and medium enterprises, improve their products and services through technological and research support. He elaborated on how DOST’s assistance can drive business growth and innovation, helping entrepreneurs to navigate challenges and enhance their market competitiveness.

The afternoon session on Financial Literacy Awareness was both informative and insightful, featuring key speakers who provided valuable knowledge about various aspects of financial management. The session began with an engaging talk by Mr. Nonato T. Mendoza, Jr., Branch Manager of ChinaBank Baler Branch. Mr. Mendoza emphasized the importance of savings and understanding the banking industry. He thoroughly explained the processes involved in opening a bank account and discussed its significance in managing personal finances effectively. His presentation provided attendees with practical knowledge on how to navigate the banking system, making it accessible and relevant for individuals seeking financial stability.

Following Mr. Mendoza, Mrs. Crystal Faye V. Salazar, CPA, Assistant Professor IV from ASCOT, took the stage to discuss Fund Management and Product Costing. Mrs. Salazar’s session was a deep dive into the complexities of managing funds and understanding the costing process in business operations. She highlighted the crucial role that accurate costing plays in business success and stressed how efficient fund management is essential for long-term financial sustainability. Her lecture provided clear insights into how businesses should plan and allocate their financial resources effectively, making the information applicable to both entrepreneurs and those involved in business management.

The final speaker of the session, Mrs. Franque Sien-an M. Mata, CPA, Assistant Professor I from ASCOT, brought the session to a close with her presentation on Basic Bookkeeping. Mrs. Mata emphasized the necessity of proper record-keeping in any business. She explained that maintaining accurate financial records is fundamental for business operations, allowing for effective monitoring of income and expenses. By highlighting the critical role of bookkeeping, she reinforced the idea that every business, regardless of size, must keep track of its financial activities to ensure compliance and profitability.

In conclusion, the morning session was an informative and engaging start to the seminar, offering valuable knowledge about the legal and regulatory landscape of business operations. The insights provided by Atty. Dunjunco, Mr. Sardea, and Mr. Villanueva underscored the importance of understanding government regulations, protecting intellectual property, and seeking support for innovation and growth. Their expertise equipped the attendees with practical tools to better navigate the complexities of business regulations.

The afternoon session on Financial Literacy Awareness was an enriching experience for all attendees. The speakers provided a comprehensive overview of essential financial concepts, from savings and banking to fund management and bookkeeping. Each presentation offered practical tips and insights that will undoubtedly help individuals and businesses make informed financial decisions.

The success of this program was greatly supported by key figures in the academic and administrative sector, including the guidance and leadership of Dr. Ricardo G. Gonzales, Jr., the Dean of SABM, Direktor Glenda Gines from Extension and Rural Development, and Dr. Ma. Luz F. Cabatan, the VP for Academic Affairs, with the continued support of College President, Dr. Renato G. Reyes.

For the first series of training, 71 barangay residents participated; specifically, there were 9 females and 62 males.