On October 8, 2025, the Marketing Management Department conducted an extension activity entitled “Identification of Marketing Gaps: Visitation for SWOC Analysis” at two livelihood associations in Pura, Tarlac—the PWD Association of Pura, located at the Pura Public Market, and the Linao Kababaihan (Linao Women’s Association) in Barangay Linao. The purpose of the visit was to assess their current operations, identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges (SWOC), and explore ways to support their growth.
The PWD Association of Pura, with 16 members, manages a rice retail store open from 10 AM to 5 PM. Their attendants work on a commission basis, earning ₱50 for every ₱1,000 sales, and receive free meals. Products like salted eggs last about four days once displayed, while freshly cooked salted eggs can last up to two weeks. The group expressed interest in improving store layout and signage to better showcase key items like salted eggs and rice. They handle expenses such as BIR and DTI renewals and sell dishwashing liquid made by members, with all earnings intended for the association. The association currently operates on a limited budget, relying on available funds only. They also participate in municipal training and maintain consistent direct clients. Plans include creating product stickers and seeking partnerships with schools, offices, or local government units to expand their market reach.
The Linao Kababaihan, consisting of 21 members divided into four rotating groups, operates twice weekly in Barangay Linao. They produce a variety of food products, including peanut butter, tocino, embutido, boneless bangus, hotdog, maruya, and puto, though their products currently lack labels. Income is pooled and shared collectively rather than individually. They use equipment such as a peanut butter grinder, gun sealer, cooler, refrigerator, freezer, and a large frying pan. While they occasionally receive walk-in customers and conduct rolling sales within the barangay, they do not have a fixed market stall, which they believe would boost sales. Rising electricity costs pose a challenge, and the group has requested training to improve skills in boneless bangus preparation and quality enhancement of tocino and hotdogs. They follow a system where savings are deducted before salaries, and 10% of profits are set aside separately.
The extension activity provided valuable insights into the operations and marketing gaps of both associations. The Marketing Management Department will use these findings to develop plans for product labeling, store improvements, and skills training to help these groups strengthen their businesses and expand their market presence.
