AS the nation grapples with rising oil prices and the increasing cost of essential goods, a legislative proposal aims to harness the power of small businesses and community organizations as a potent force against poverty.
Representative Nathaniel “Atty. Nat” M. Oducado of the 1Tahanan Partylist has filed House Bill No. 8745, an act designed to strengthen these local enterprises and community-based initiatives, thereby creating opportunities for income generation and poverty reduction.
Oducado emphasized that the persistent poverty experienced by many Filipinos is often not due to a lack of effort but rather a scarcity of opportunities to earn a livelihood.
“We need to empower small businesses and cooperatives to create jobs within their communities, especially during times of crisis,” he stated. House Bill No. 8745, titled the “Poverty Reduction through Social Entrepreneurship Act,” seeks to establish the PRESENT Program. This program is envisioned to provide small and community-based businesses with crucial access to funding, essential training, and market access, enabling them to thrive and contribute more significantly to the local economy.
The proposed legislation defines social enterprises as businesses that generate income while simultaneously contributing to the welfare of the community.
These enterprises can take various forms, such as providing employment to marginalized individuals, supporting local farmers and fisherfolk, or circulating funds for social services. To oversee and support these initiatives nationwide, HB 8745 also proposes the creation of a Social Enterprise Development Council under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). This council would be instrumental in guiding and promoting the growth of social enterprises across the country.
Oducado stressed the need for practical solutions that bring employment and income closer to Filipino households, particularly for the millions still struggling with poverty.
The bill mandates government agencies to integrate these social enterprises into their development plans, fostering their growth and expanding their capacity to assist more individuals in need. “This law will ensure that development reaches everyone, especially those who need it the most,” Oducado affirmed, highlighting the bill’s commitment to inclusive progress and widespread economic empowerment.
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