PDRF, DTI, PBSP, and Hapinoy team up to revive and sustain commerce in Yolanda-ravaged cities

The aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda (International name: Haiyan) not only left considerable damage to residential structures but it also paralyzed the commercial segment of the affected areas.

In a recent visit to the affected areas, Hapinoy President Mark Ruiz shares the positive news: “People start to make do – we see the emergence of makeshift sari-sari stores.”

With the goal to revive commercial trade in the affected areas, Ruiz says: “Once the relief goods run out, we’re going to have a period of time where there’s a supply gap between the actual amount of rice and certain commodities and if we don’t establish the distribution chain pretty soon during that supply gap, prices will increase even higher.”

In partnership with Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), a revival plan will be put into action involving distributors, wholesalers, and sari-sari stores. Another concern to be addressed and to be collaborated with the Philippine Disaster Recovery Foundation (PDRF) is the building of temporary housing for the merchandise. The plan is to restore a center point “bagsakan” to be able to house merchandise, while the public markets are being rebuilt.

Hapinoy conducted surveys on current needs per municipality, which were based on population, extent of damage, among others to identify the types of support that need to be extended in the affected areas.

The program will not only involve the physical rebuilding of damaged establishments but also support to existing enterprises in the area that were severely affected.

Along with the support of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Ruiz proudly says: “Microfinancing Institutions are actually ready to release loans to jump start the micro entrepreneurs.”

Photo shows (from L-R): Butch Meily, PDRF President; USec. Ponciano Manalo, DTI; Rafael Lopa, PBSP Executive Director; and Mark Ruiz, Hapinoy President.