Two handicrafts factories assisted by the Department of Science and Technology – National Capital Region (DOST-NCR) were visited by the DOST and media headed by DOST-NCR Director Dr. Teresita C. Fortuna during the Roadshow Project Visit to Assisted Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME’s) on December 11, 2014.
Nine assisted establishments were visited, three metal industries, four foods processors, and two handicrafts firms. The firms were RIC-JO INTERNATIONAL ENTERPRISE AND LAMPARA TRENDS INCORPORATED.
· RIC-JO INTERNATIONAL ENTERPRISES located in Parañaque makes bags and accessories from native materials which they supplied to bag makers and exporters in Manila earlier.
However, due to hardship in collection, and the abundant stack stored, Ric and Jo, couple owner of RIC-JO were prompted to make bags themselves. Which they solved using the borrowed old heavy duty “saliwa” sewing machine from a relative.
RIC-JO through the DOST-NCR intervention was able to buy a binding machine, and 2-in-1 zigzag / straight machine and training on synthetic and dying technology among others.
With the training and machines provided by the DOST, RIC-JO increased production by 100% increased sales by 80%, standardized dying process and penetrated new markets among others.
RIC-JO markets are Kultura (SM), Rustans, California, USA, Hawaii, Dubai, and Japan.
· LAMPARA TRENDS INCORPORATED located in Vitalez Compound, San Andres Parañaque City makes elegant and modern Asian houses wares, decorative and functional items, and home decors such as dish boards, shampoo / lotion dispenses, salad sets, dishes, soap containers, yard decors, frames, chimes, tealights, and other ornamentals made from natural materials like capiz shells, metals, papers, glass, and wood, perfect for houses, establishments and offices.
DOST aside from the training and consultancy services also provided LAMPARA drying tunnel; sanding booth and spray booth.
Through these DOST intervention, LAMPARA increased gross sales by 30% on account of improved product quality, and reduced processing time and improved finishing process, among others.
RIC-JO INTERNATIONAL ENTERPRISE markets are Los Angeles, California, Miami, Florida, Irving, Texas, UAE, San Francisco, California, Atlanta and USA. (PSciJourn MegaManila)
