Unique products, unique success
The uniqueness of the seaweed production of Carayat Rural Improvement Club (CRIC) in Sorsogon was a really challenging factor in making a living from it. Apart from the difficult processing of the products, the CRIC also had to deal with a typhoon that damaged both the area and their equipment..
Struggle makes the group stronger
Seaweed is a plant-like organism found in coastal areas and is only harvested on a seasonal basis. Because the final products have to be made manually, they have to scrutinize every detail. Due to their time-honored equipment, the process is very time consuming. What contributes to the very lengthy process is the insufficient use of sealers and bottles. Despite that, the quality of their product is maintained.
Support from MBC
Although the CRIC members had completed livelihood training from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on seaweed product development, the group still needs help with financial management and innovative use of equipment. Their previous training has not been able to solve this. Like many others, not much attention is paid to keeping records
However, through the MBC training they have learned the right things about marketing and accounting, and how business operations can be improved. It has made them realize how important it is to keep track of what goes in and out of the company. The training also helped them to find an alternative way of generating income, especially during the rainy season, such as making noodles.
Expand the market area
With the support of MBC and Good Neighbors, CRIC expects to be able to expand their sales area by participating in trade fairs in the province. It helps them show how unique and valuable their products are. The current situation of the CRIC may be difficult, also because they have financial problems, but they believe, like MBC, that their products – seaweed noodles, seaweed pickles and seaweed crackers – will one day have sufficient sales in Sorsogon.
