From Struggles to Success: How Coca-Cola Philippines' iSTAR Program is Changing the Lives of 2,000 Women Entrepreneurs

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In a world where dreams often clash with reality, 2,000 women entrepreneurs from grassroots communities in the Philippines have shattered barriers and risen above challenges—thanks to the iSTAR Program, a groundbreaking initiative by Coca-Cola Philippines. Their journey of perseverance, determination, and success culminated in an emotional and inspiring Hybrid Mass Graduation Ceremony on February 1, 2025, in Bacolod, Negros Occidental.

A Beacon of Hope for Women Entrepreneurs

For decades, many aspiring women entrepreneurs in the Philippines have faced an uphill battle—limited resources, lack of training, and little to no access to financial support. But Coca-Cola Philippines, together with the Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation (NWTF) and the Technical Education & Skills Development Authority (TESDA), has been changing that narrative through the iSTAR Program.

Launched in 2020, iSTAR is more than just a training initiative. It’s a lifeline, empowering women with the essential skills, confidence, and support they need to launch and sustain successful businesses. This year's graduation marked a historic milestone—2,000 women from across the country celebrating their hard-earned success, whether physically present at the University of Negros Occidental Recoletos Gymnasium or attending virtually.

Stories of Transformation: More Than Just Business

Among the graduates is Catherine Gallano, a sari-sari store and bakery owner, who once struggled to keep her business afloat. Today, she proudly showcases her baked goods, a testament to how iSTAR’s digital learning modules equipped her with financial management expertise and customer engagement strategies.

"The iSTAR program has been incredibly beneficial, empowering women like me to run a sustainable business, earn a living, and enhance our quality of life," Catherine shared, her voice brimming with gratitude and confidence.

Her story is just one among thousands—women who have turned struggles into triumphs, finding not just financial stability but also newfound independence and self-worth.

Partnerships That Empower and Elevate

What makes iSTAR a game-changer is the powerful synergy behind it. TESDA plays a crucial role in broadening the program’s reach by offering training and certification, ensuring that iSTAR’s modules remain free and accessible nationwide. NWTF, on the other hand, brings the program to the heart of grassroots communities, providing continuous support beyond financial aid.

"Loans are just part of it; the real goal is to equip our members with the right skills and knowledge to make their businesses thrive. iSTAR is one of the programs that make this possible," said Gilbert Stephan Maramba, Director for Operations at NWTF.

TESDA Director General Sec. Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez reinforced this vision: "We are here to ensure that no Filipino potential goes to waste. Our mission is to provide the skills necessary for whatever aspirations you and your family may have. From training to employment, we’ve got you covered."

Sustaining Success: The Centers for Entrepreneurship

Recognizing that entrepreneurship is an ongoing journey, Coca-Cola Philippines took the program a step further by launching Centers for Entrepreneurship (CFEs) in seven key areas in July 2024. These hubs serve as dynamic spaces for continuous training, mentorship, and financial support, ensuring that graduates have the resources they need to sustain and expand their businesses.

"To our graduates, your journey does not end here. The CFEs are your go-to spaces for lifelong learning, business mentoring, and innovation. We are here to support you as you grow and sustain your businesses," said Ivanna Dela Torre, Senior Director of Public Affairs, Communication, and Sustainability at Coca-Cola Philippines.

A Ripple Effect of Change

The success of the iSTAR Program is not just measured in numbers but in the profound impact it has had on the lives of women entrepreneurs and their communities. Each graduate represents a story of hope, resilience, and empowerment, proving that when given the right tools and opportunities, women can transform their dreams into reality.

As the program continues to expand, its ripple effect will be felt across the country—creating jobs, fostering economic growth, and inspiring the next generation of women entrepreneurs. With Coca-Cola Philippines, TESDA, and NWTF at the helm, the future is indeed bright for aspiring businesswomen in the Philippines.

For more information about the iSTAR Program, visit the Coca-Cola Philippines Sustainability Hub: https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/brands/coca-cola/sustainability.

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