Filipinos are enterprising in the time of Covid-19 pandemic

For example, at this facebook-based (private group’s name not disclosed) Marketplace, she bought kimchi, a face shield, chicken, and vegetables. Within the village, there is FREE delivery.

Noemi reports: “Filipinos are very enterprising. People are doing services. Today I bought two electric fans, vigan longganisa, carrots, and other veggies. They sell prepared meals and merienda. Freshly-baked bread. Kakanin. Binignit. Lumpia. Fruits. Someone sells shrimps. Fish. Mussels. Korean food. Even rubbing alcohol. Someone provides cleaning services for air conditioning units. Pet food also!”

Noemi says that there is a huge demand for work-at-home computer tables and chairs.

“Pabili” services (Errand Services such as “Buy/Get this for me and deliver to me, please!”) are thriving in these communities. Ex. Pa-grocery, Pa-bayad bills, Pa-bili. (Errands such as to do grocery shopping, pay the bills, buy something for me.)

One of her enterprising neighbors collects pizza orders and delivers them. C.O.D. (Cash on delivery) basis.

The honor system works because if buyer or seller don’t fulfill their promises, the whole group knows about it (without mentioning names). This is called the “shaming” system. Everyone is a good neighbor.

Noemi believes that “this is the best definition of ‘community’, sharing resources and not just a group of people living in one place.”

I am posting this inspiring update so we can think of more ways to encourage our micro-entrepreneurs and small business owners to think outside the box. It’s not always thinking about economic recovery (hoping for the best) that matters BUT also about the possibility of an economic apocalypse (preparing for the worst).