Microentrepreneur,

inspiring success stories of our microentrepreneurs. Since its creation in 2002, the CMA program has served as a vehicle to encourage other aspiring microentrepreneurs nationwide and to spread the message that through the value and nobility of hard work, anything is possible," Nestor A. Espenilla, BSP governor said in a statement.

Other winners for different categories were also named: regional awardee for Luzon was Maria Elena Estadola, nito handicrafts business owner; regional awardee for Visayas was Rosario Amoroto, calamansi processing business owner; and regional awardee for Mindanao was Arnold Viado, a balut producer.

For special awards, Estrella Balnao, a coffee farmer and producer, and Romeo Ponio, a corn and vegetable farmer, were recognized in the field of agri micro-business; Jessette Oquendo, owner of a souvenir center for Palawan Crafts, for community leadership; and Marisa Ganding, owner of a spa and wellness center, for start-up micro-business.

“We are honored to recognize and celebrate successful entrepreneurs whose perseverance, determination and conviction to pursue their dreams serves as an inspiration to others. These outstanding entrepreneurs have made a difference for their families and now serve as catalysts to encourage and motivate other entrepreneurs to follow in their footsteps,” said Aftab Ahmed, chief executive officer of Citi Philippines, said in a statement.

“Citi Philippines is dedicated to supporting financial inclusion initiatives that help Filipinos achieve financial independence and enable them to make a contribution to their communities” the official added.

The winners of the 16th CMA received prizes amounting to P2 million in cash and non-cash, including a one-year life and health insurance coverage. They will also get laptops and information technology training, and entrepreneurship training at the Citi Microenterprise Development Center, which is another program of Citi Foundation in partnership with Bayan Academy. —