At 63 years old, Caridad stands as a pillar of resilience in her community in Malabon. Despite enduring immense challenges, including two house fires and the recent loss of her son-in-law to cancer, she remains committed to her goal: providing a brighter future for her family.
“Hindi ka pwedeng huminto,” she said “Kailangan mong magkayod para sa pamilya mo.” (You can't stop. You need to keep working hard for your family)
Caridad and her family had already faced devastating challenges long before starting their business. In 2010 and 2016, their house was caught in a fire, destroying their possessions and hard-earned progress. However, she didn't let these setbacks defeat her. Caridad started her journey to financial resilience in 2017 when she decided to start a sari-sari store business. With the support of her child, who gave her a small initial capital of five thousand pesos, she carefully managed and reinvested it to grow her venture.
Then came the COVID-19 pandemic—a devastating blow that impacted millions, including Caridad's family. The pandemic brought with it a wave of financial hardship, with lockdowns, job losses, and a sudden loss of income crippling families across the country. For Caridad, the pandemic was another fierce challenge, one that added even more uncertainty to an already difficult situation.\
In 2023, Caridad found a glimmer of hope through the Financial Resilience Towards Economic Recovery (FREER) project, a program led by Save the Children Philippines in partnership with Wells Fargo. This initiative was designed to provide essential financial literacy and resources to help alleviate poverty among underserved families in Malabon and Navotas—communities that were hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and the extended community quarantines. For Caridad, this program was more than just an opportunity; it was a lifeline. By gaining critical financial skills and access to vital resources, she saw a chance to secure a better future for herself and her family, despite the many trials life had thrown her way.
“Kung hindi ako sumali sa FREER, wala akong makukuhang pautang,” she stated. (If I hadn't joined FREER, I wouldn't have been able to get a loan)
Through FREER’s support, she became a member of a Community Savings Group (CSG), where she saves ₱500 weekly and accesses small loans to sustain her sari-sari store. These loans help her restock essential items like coffee, soft drinks, and snacks, ensuring her store remains a vital source of income, especially during peak seasons like Christmas. She devoted this business to supporting her family, especially her three grandchildren.
Beyond the financial assistance, Caridad values the lessons she’s learned through FREER. From proper budgeting to improving her business strategies, she applies these skills daily to maximize her store’s profits. The program has also provided her with a sense of community.
“Natutuwa ako sa bonding namin sa CSG” (I’m happy with the bonding we have in our community savings group), she shared, finding joy and support in the friendships she’s built with fellow members like Amy and Chichi.
Caridad dreams of seeing her three grandchildren finish their education and build successful lives. Despite her struggles, she faces each day with unwavering determination.
Through FREER, Caridad has not only improved her livelihood but also gained the confidence to keep fighting for her family’s future. Reflecting the strength and hope that keep her going, she said, “Pag bumigay ka, talo ka” (If you give up, you lose).