Midsayap, Cotabato — Fifteen women from the Kimagango Rural Improvement Club (RIC) took a significant step toward more efficient and sustainable operations through a Lean Management Training conducted by the RTWPB-XII, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Cotabato Provincial Office and the Midsayap Negosyo Center on 15 July 2025 at the Negosyo Center in Midsayap, Cotabato. 

The training aimed to strengthen the Kimagango RIC, a group managing a Shared Service Facility (SSF) under DTI’s SSF Program, by equipping them with practical strategies to eliminate waste, streamline work processes, and boost productivity in their operations. 

The session was facilitated by Mr. Randy Oliver M. Legada, Productivity Trainer and IT Officer of RTWPB-XII, who guided the participants through the basics of lean thinking, including the 5S methodology, identifying non-value-adding tasks, and implementing continuous improvements.  

“When we empower women with productivity tools, we’re not just changing how they work—we’re unlocking their potential to transform communities from the ground up,” Mr. Legada shared. 

Throughout the session, the 15 women engaged actively in group exercises and discussions, connecting the lessons to their real-life challenges in running a rural enterprise. Many said it was their first time learning techniques that could help them manage time, space, and resources more effectively. “You could feel their excitement, the realization that they can work smarter, not harder, was empowering for them,” said Mr. Legada. 

The training opened with an inspirational message from DTI Cotabato Provincial Director Robert A. Orfrecio, who emphasized the value of innovation, efficiency, and collaboration in micro-enterprise development. “This is more than a skills training, it’s a reaffirmation of our trust in rural women as key players in local development. We will continue to support and walk with them,” he said. 

This training marks another milestone in fostering inclusive growth and strengthening women-led enterprises in Soccsksargen. (Randy Oliver M. Legada)