Anchored on its mission of openness and service, particularly for the underserved and marginalized, Isabela State University (ISU) continues to translate its mission into meaningful community programs. Through its College of Business and Management (CBM) at the ISU Cauayan Campus, the University launched the “TechnoBiz Go Negosyo: Capability Building and Upgrading on Catering Services and Community Outreach”, an initiative designed to empower local communities, especially women, toward sustainable and inclusive livelihood.

Held at the ISU Cauayan Campus Hostel, the program gathered members of the Isabela Green Ladies Organization (IGLO) from the municipalities of Angadanan, Gamu, San Luis, San Agustin, and Naguilian. The activity served as both skills training and platform for collaboration, mentorship, and empowerment.

Dr. Mildred Matulin (Program Chair of the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management), highlighted the vision behind the initiative. “The purpose of this extension activity is to strengthen partnership and collaboration, women empowerment, and upgrading and planning ahead. All these are to achieve our common aim—to foster cooperation in achieving sustainable livelihood for women as members of our community. This contributes to inclusive growth and advancement in our way of living,” Dr. Matulin shared.

The program covered a series of hands-on sessions and discussions facilitated by CBM faculty members and BSHM students, focusing on key topics essential for running and improving catering services. Among the highlighted sessions were:

• From Service to Satisfaction: Key Approaches to Elevating Customer Experience
• Ensuring Food Safety: Best Practices for Handling and Preparation
• Balancing Budget and Beauty: Techniques in Food Costing, Plating, and Garnishing
• Creative and Functional Event Layout and Design
• Mastering Table Setting and Centerpiece Design for Different Occasions

Through lectures, demonstrations, and participatory learning, attendees gained practical knowledge not only on food and service management but also on financial planning and event organization—skills crucial in establishing sustainable small-scale businesses.

Dir. Conchita Palencia (Chief Executive Officer of IGLO) underscored the organization’s goal of fostering community-oriented entrepreneurship rather than profit-centered ventures.

“Ang organization naman nating ito, it’s not that para kumita lang kayo. Our organization, kaya mayroon tayong ganito ay para makatulong tayo sa mga kasamahan natin; na gusto man nilang makatanggap ng ganitong serbisyo, at least, at a minimal cost—hindi siya ‘yung mahal. Ibigay sa murang halaga para at least, ma-feel nila na they are part of our organization,” she emphasized.

The TechnoBiz Go Negosyo program exemplified ISU’s holistic approach to community development—combining education, empowerment, and entrepreneurship. By providing participants with marketable skills and business knowledge, the initiative helped generate sustainable income, reduce financial vulnerability, and strengthen community ties.

More importantly, it demonstrates ISU’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). Through capacity-building programs like this, ISU not only contributes to individual livelihoods but also fosters a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and shared prosperity across the province of Isabela.