The initiative was formalized through a memorandum of agreement (MOA) signing attended by 121 residents highlighting strong community interest in skills training and livelihood development.
Bringing opportunities closer to communities
GentriAsenso is built on a three-pronged framework: Kaalaman (Educate), Kasanayan (Skills), and Kabuhayan (Livelihood).
The program will be implemented through a monthly barangay caravan model designed to make training and support more accessible across General Trias.
Each cycle will accommodate 75 participants, with a total target of 450 beneficiaries.
Under the Kaalaman component, residents are introduced to available livelihood opportunities during barangay caravans.
This is followed by Kasanayan, where participants undergo hands-on training led by the CSWD in areas such as hair care, beauty services, and cookery.
The Kabuhayan phase supports graduates as they transition into income-generating activities.
Participants receive starter kits, attend financial literacy workshops, and benefit from post-training coaching to help them establish and sustain small businesses or employment.
Incentives and support for trainees
All program graduates will receive livelihood starter kits, while top-performing participants in each batch will be recognized with cash incentives. In addition, their National Certificate Level II (NCII) assessment fees will be waived.
General Trias City Mayor Luis “Jon-Jon” Ferrer IV also pledged an additional P2,000 grant for each graduate to serve as supplementary start-up capital.
Strengthening public-private collaboration
The program builds on the existing partnership between Unilever Philippines and General Trias City, where the company operates a major manufacturing facility opened in 2023.
The plant produces about 90 percent of Unilever’s locally manufactured products sold in the Philippines, with some items exported to Southeast Asia, Australia, and North America.
“Kaya proud kaming sabihin: maraming Unilever products ay proudly made in GenTri, at may mga umaabot pa sa ibang bansa through exports. World-class po ang gawa ng GenTri,” said Atty. Joseph Fabul, head of communications, corporate affairs, and sustainability for Unilever Philippines and Greater Asia.
(That’s why we’re proud to say many Unilever products are made in General Trias, with some exported to other countries. The quality of work in GenTri is world-class.)
He added that GentriAsenso reinforces the company’s commitment to community development.
Toward inclusive growth
As Unilever Philippines approaches its 100th anniversary in 2027, the company reaffirmed its commitment to creating positive social impact through innovation, sustainability, and purpose-driven initiatives.
Through GentriAsenso, both Unilever and the General Trias government aim to demonstrate how collaborative efforts can drive inclusive growth and empower communities through skills development and livelihood opportunities. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
