Andam Higala - USTP launches Andam Eba 5.0 to empower solo mothers in the community
By Roque P. Bermudez, STRATCOMM USTP System
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Demonstrating its continued commitment to championing community extension initiatives, Andam Higala of the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (Andam Higala – USTP) launched Andam Eba 5.0, a program that empowers solo mothers through upskilling and personality development sessions. Organizers held the launch on October 17, 2025, at the Barangay Lapasan Hall in Cagayan de Oro City.
Andam Eba is one of the flagship programs of Andam Higala, a non-governmental organization accredited by the Youth Organization Registration Program (YORP) of the Philippines and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The organization focuses on youth empowerment, environmental advocacy, entrepreneurship, and women’s development. Ms. Herna Francis Mae Tano, a USTP Cagayan de Oro alumna, serves as the organization’s Executive Director and Co-Founder.
The Andam Eba Program, derived from “andam” (ready, equipped, empowered) and “eba” (woman), equips women with essential skills, engages them in workshops, and supports their microenterprises for economic advancement. Since its inception in 2020, the program has benefited various community groups, including teenage mothers, scholar mothers, and the wives of quarry workers.
During the launch, Hon. Desiree Ann M. Dahino, City Councilor of District 1, and Hon. Gilda “Gigi” Go, City Councilor of District 2, delivered messages of support for Andam Higala’s continuing initiatives. Barangay Lapasan Kagawad Shiva Andaya also expressed her gratitude to Andam Higala for implementing Andam Eba in their barangay, recognizing its role in strengthening community stewardship and empowering women.
Andam Eba Project Head Natasha Nicole Rosales formally introduced the program’s initiatives to the beneficiaries and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to empowering solo mothers and providing them with opportunities for leadership and growth.
The six-month program offers Skills Training Workshops, Business Training, and Business Mentoring and Monitoring. These activities aim to equip participants with practical skills, enhance their business knowledge, and provide ongoing support for business development and progress.
- Equip 30 solo mothers with entrepreneurial skills;
- Establish a cooperative among solo mothers in Barangay Lapasan;
- Achieve a 10% increase in net monthly profit margins; and
- Register and legalize their businesses with relevant government agencies.
The Noemi L. Mandac Memorial Court No. 45 of the Order of the Amaranth, headed by Royal Matron Anne Lorraine R. Sitoy of the USTP Strategic Communication Office, extended its support to the program through the donation of manicure, pedicure, and spa kits to jumpstart the livelihood training. The skills training officially began on October 20, 2025 with the Order of the Amaranth delivering all 30 kits for the participants.
Andam Eba 5.0 demonstrates USTP and its partners’ commitment to advancing community development through sustainable extension programs aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 5, and 8—No Poverty, Gender Equality, and Decent Work and Economic Growth.
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