iSTAR graduates at the graduation ceremony in the University of Negros Occidental Recoletos Gymnasium.
In a vibrant display of hope, resilience, and empowerment, 2,000 women entrepreneurs from across the country came together—both in person and online—for the first-ever Hybrid Mass Graduation Ceremony of the iSTAR Program, held on February 1, 2025, in Bacolod, Negros Occidental.
Hosted by the Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation (NWTF), a long-time ally of Coca-Cola Philippines, the event marked a major milestone in Coca-Cola’s mission to empower women at the grassroots level. The iSTAR Program, a partnership between Coca-Cola Philippines and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), has been a lifeline for thousands of aspiring businesswomen, equipping them with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to build sustainable livelihoods.
“For over 112 years, Coca-Cola has been more than just a beverage—we’ve been a partner in building better lives,” said Ivanna Dela Torre, Senior Director of Public Affairs, Communication, and Sustainability at Coca-Cola Philippines.
The celebration in Bacolod wasn’t just about diplomas and handshakes—it was a powerful reminder of what happens when collaboration meets purpose. With leaders from TESDA in attendance, including Director General Sec. Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez and other key officials, the event underscored the national commitment to inclusive economic growth and women’s empowerment.
iSTAR graduate Catherine Gallano proudly showcases her baked goods in her bakery, applying the skills and knowledge gained from the program to expand her business.
Real stories, real impact
Among the graduates was Catherine Gallano, a sari-sari store and bakery owner who used the iSTAR Program to turn her small business into a thriving venture. With newfound skills in financial literacy and customer engagement—learned through the program’s digital platform—Catherine expanded her business and gained the confidence to dream even bigger.
“The iSTAR Program empowered me not just to run a business, but to run it well,” she shared. “It’s helped me create a better life for my family and inspired others in my community to do the same.”
TESDA’s commitment to accessibility has helped scale the iSTAR Program nationwide. By integrating it into the TESDA Online Program, training has become free and widely available, opening doors for thousands of budding entrepreneurs in remote and underserved areas.
“You get addicted to learning,” said Sec. Benitez during his keynote speech. “TESDA is here to ensure no Filipino potential goes to waste. From training to trabaho—we’re with you every step of the way.”
Powering progress through partnership
The success of iSTAR is built on strong collaboration. NWTF has played a key role in bringing the program to life in communities, offering not just training, but a full ecosystem of support.
“Loans are only part of the journey,” said Gilbert Stephan Maramba, NWTF’s Director for Operations. “Programs like iSTAR are how we help our members strengthen and protect their businesses. That’s the heart of Project Dungganon.”
Taking it further: The centers for entrepreneurship
But the journey doesn’t stop at graduation. In July 2024, Coca-Cola Philippines launched seven Centers for Entrepreneurship (CFEs) as part of the iSTAR Program. These physical hubs offer ongoing mentorship, financial access, and business support—making sure entrepreneurs have a place to grow long after the training ends.
“To all our graduates: this is just the beginning,” said Dela Torre. “The CFEs are your go-to spaces for continued learning and innovation. Come back anytime. You’ll always have a home with us.”
Ready to start your own entrepreneurial journey? Learn more about the iSTAR Program by visiting the Coca-Cola Philippines Sustainability Hub.