30/04/2026
From the Regions: NCMF CARAGA
NCMF Caraga Hosts Micro-Entrepreneurs Forum in Surigao City.
On April 22, 2026, the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos in the Caraga Region, under the leadership of Regional Director Monaim D. G**o, DPA, Ph.D., D.Hum., convened a Micro-Entrepreneurs Forum at the Philippine Gateway Hotel in Surigao City, Surigao del Norte. The event, led by Chief Hadja Sumayyah Saripha Camama-Barra, was attended by 70 micro-entrepreneurs from Surigao City, excluding NCMF employees. Guided by the theme, "Leading the New Frontiers of Growth and Empowering the Muslim Filipino Community through Entrepreneurship," the forum aimed to enhance the profitability of enterprises, foster market growth, improve customer satisfaction, develop employees, and promote social responsibility.
The program officially commenced at 8:00 AM with the arrival and registration of participants, the opening program began with a solemn opening dua led by Alisucri Naga, ADOF III, followed by the singing of the National Anthem through an audio-visual presentation. Then, Ms. Noralyn Sangcaan, Planning Assistant, delivered the acknowledgement of participants, recognizing the presence of distinguished guests and attendees. This was followed by the Opening Remarks of SEDD Chief Ms. Saripha Camama-Barra, who emphasized that when we empower micro-entrepreneur, we are not just helping one person, we are uplifting an entire family and strengthening our community. Subsequently, the Welcome Address was delivered.
Further, Ms. Noralyn Sangcaan introduced the first resource speaker. The first session, titled โThe Fundamental Concept of Islamic Finance and its Significant Contracts,โ was delivered by Dr. Anwar Radiamoda, Director of the Shariโah Center at MSU Main Campus, Marawi City, and a member of the BARMM Shariโah Supervisory Board. He discussed the principles, concepts, and applications of Islamic finance, highlighting its relevance to micro-entrepreneurs. The discussion significantly enhanced participantsโ understanding of Shariโah-compliant financial systems, enabling them to appreciate alternative financing options free from interest (riba). It also strengthened their capacity to engage in ethical and sustainable financial practices aligned with Islamic principles, which are particularly beneficial for Muslim entrepreneurs seeking lawful business operations.
The second resource speaker was introduced next. The topic of discussion was "Financial Literacy," presented by Ms. Arciazel I. Lagrama, MBA, the City PESDO Manager of Surigao City. She was represented by Ms. Reggie Mae Deberto, a Livelihood Development Specialist from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Surigao del Norte Field Office. Her presentation had a practical impact on the participants by enhancing their financial decision-making skills, encouraging disciplined budgeting, and promoting a culture of saving and proper resource allocation. This guidance helped micro-entrepreneurs manage their income more effectively, reduce financial risks, and improve the sustainability and growth of their businesses. The presence of DOLE, Surigao del Norte Field Office, and PESDO of Surigao City was also crucial, as they facilitate the provision of livelihood assistance to the participants, who are the beneficiaries of this program.
Furthermore, the final topic, โConsumer Rights and Business Ethics in Islam,โ was delivered by Atty. Nadzma Ameril Naga, Chief of the Legal Affairs Division of NCMF Caraga Region. She discussed the legal and ethical foundations of conducting business in accordance with Islamic principles, emphasizing fairness, accountability, and consumer protection. The session deepened participantsโ awareness of their responsibilities as business owners, particularly in upholding honesty, transparency, and fairness in all transactions. It reinforced the importance of consumer protection and ethical conduct, fostering trust and credibility between entrepreneurs and their customers, which is essential for long-term business success.
An open forum was held, facilitated by Chief Barra, where participants engaged actively with the speakers through questions and clarifications, further enhancing their understanding of the discussed topics.
The program was concluded at 4:00 PM with the Closing Remarks delivered by Alisucri Naga, ADOF III. The entire program was smoothly facilitated by Abdulrahim Abedin, DMO III, who served as the Master of Ceremonies.
NCMF Caraga Regional Director G**o expressed heartfelt appreciation to Manager Lagrama, Debbie Deberto, Aleem Anwar Radiamoda, Atty. Nadzma Naga, and all participants. He especially acknowledged Agakhan Manangkiran, President of the Muslim Association of Surigao City and Surigao del Norte, as well as Vice President of the Regional Peace Advisory Council, Chief Barra, Noralyn Sangcaan, Alisucri Naga, AbdulRahim Abedin, Norlailah G**o, and Jalil Dumagay, for their contributions to the success of this forum.