Buena Bariring, 42, from Cabuyao, Laguna, was devastated when she was diagnosed with Hepatitis B at 18, a condition that not only cost her a job but also subjected her to stigma. Despite the emotional challenges and health struggles, she found support in an online group, where she met Rowena Jordan, who would later become her business partner. In 2013, Buena started a weaving business, using dried water lilies to create unique products.
With a PHP 3,000 loan from CARD SME Bank, she and Rowena launched their venture, which quickly gained success at trade fairs. But the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 posed a major setback, halting their momentum and leading to financial losses.
Both women also contracted COVID-19, further complicating their recovery. Nevertheless, they persevered, and today their business employs five workers. CARD SME Bank played a crucial role in their growth, helping them secure capital for bulk orders. Their products, especially unique water lily slippers, have become popular among Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) as souvenirs. “Back then, I had no job; now, I employ others. We used to search for opportunities, but now we create them,” Buena shared. From facing rejection and illness to achieving success, Buena’s story is a testament to resilience and determination. Her advice to others battling Hepatitis B: “Keep fighting, dream big, and better days will come.”
- ๐ฆ๐๐ฟ๐ผ๐ป๐ด๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐ฏ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฒ๐ฐ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ ๐ฏ๐ผ๐ผ๐๐๐ ๐ฃ๐ ๐ง๐ผ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐บ, ๐๐ฎ๐๐ ๐๐ - June 10, 2026
- CALAX Governorโs Drive Interchange opens new opportunities for commuters and communities - June 9, 2026
- CARD, Inc. strengthens financial inclusion through NextGen Digital Platform - May 16, 2026