NLEX PUNLA program advances, boosts women-led businesses

NLEX Corporation’s acclaimed capacity-building initiative, Pag-unlad at Paglago ng Pamayanan (PUNLA), has moved into its crucial next phase, focusing on ensuring the sustained growth and business continuity of top five women-led small enterprises from its previous cycle.

The recent launch and initial training session saw participants discuss their progress and identify challenges encountered during the implementation of their expansion plans. Over the next five months, these businesses will receive expert recommendations and ongoing mentorship, supported by program partner, the Partnership of Philippine Support Service Agencies (PHILSSA). This intensive period will include regular check-in sessions and culminate in a final evaluation.

Priscilla Domingo of Makabagong Agrikultura ng Dinalupihan Marketing, Corp., a participating enterprise, expressed deep appreciation for NLEX’s continuous support and practical approach. She highlighted the training’s informative, clear, and beneficial nature for business growth, adding that the sustained support significantly boosts their confidence in broader operations. Jinky Barrameda, Chairperson of the CAT-Employees Dependents Producers Cooperative, echoed this sentiment, sharing how the program has expanded their networks and provided valuable insights from other small businesses and partner organizations.

Donna Marcelo, NLEX Vice President for Communications and Stakeholder Management, emphasized the monitoring phase’s importance in helping participants achieve their business goals and ensuring long-term sustainability. Marcelo also stated that PUNLA 2.1 aims to make these enterprises more resilient by addressing key challenges and strengthening operations. She assured that NLEX would not abandon participants after the initial stages, committing to ensuring the success of their business plans and providing continued assistance until their businesses become stable and expanded.

For years, NLEX Corporation, a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), has actively implemented corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs designed to drive positive change and significantly enhance the well-being of residents in its host communities.