mikocanares Asia, Business Planning, Capacity Building, Consulting Services, core expertise, Core services, Facilitation, innovation, Local economic development

Baybay sa Taloto Partners with Step Up for Landmark Strategic Planning Session 

Entering its fifth year of operation, the popular seaside dining spot Baybay sa Taloto (BsT) successfully held its first-ever formal strategic planning workshop in January 2026, marking a major milestone in its journey as it grows from a cozy local spot into a restaurant rooted in slow food values.

The planning session, facilitated by Step Up Consulting, represents a strategic shift for the homegrown enterprise—signaling its intent to move beyond organic growth toward a more structured and sustainable business model. Once known primarily as a rustic weekend food getaway along the Taloto–Manga Coastal Road, BsT has steadily evolved into a must-visit seaside retreat for both locals and visitors seeking fresh, home-style cuisine in an alfresco setting.

Since opening on March 20, 2021, Baybay sa Taloto has built a loyal customer base drawn to its laid-back atmosphere and “lutong-bahay” flavors. However, with increasing foot traffic and expanding service demands, the restaurant now faces mounting pressures from rising food costs, escalating energy prices, and the operational complexities of serving larger crowds.

Recognizing these challenges, management emphasized the need to recalibrate its direction.

“After five years of serving our community, we are to re-strategize,” management said. “Our goal is to strengthen our full-service operations while preserving the homey, seaside vibe that our patrons love.”

The strategic planning workshop focused on three core areas:

  • Operational Efficiency. Participants examined ways to optimize kitchen workflows, improve inventory control, and manage utilities more effectively in response to rising food and power costs.
  • Service Innovation. The team explored new concepts to elevate the “slow food” experience—introducing menu improvements, better queue management, and enhanced customer engagement strategies tailored for peak weekend crowds.
  • Future Growth. Clear short- and long-term objectives were set to guide expansion, branding, and service consistency, ensuring that Baybay sa Taloto remains competitive and relevant in Tagbilaran City’s growing food and tourism scene.

Management noted that the workshop is only the beginning of a broader transformation process. The outcomes of the session will inform upcoming operational reforms, staff training initiatives, and menu development plans in the coming months.

With a renewed strategic direction, Baybay sa Taloto aims to strike a balance between professionalized operations and the simple seaside charm that made it a community favorite—positioning itself not just as a dining spot, but as Tagbilaran City’s weekend seaside getaway.

mikocanares Asia, Associates, Business Planning, Consulting Services, core expertise, Core services, Facilitation, Local economic development, Non-Government Organizations

Step Up Conducts Strategic Planning for Buon Pastore Multi-Purpose Cooperative

Step Up facilitated a strategic planning activity for Buon Pastore Multi-Purpose Cooperative in November 2025 aimed at strengthening its institutional direction and supporting its continued growth through market diversification and enterprise development.

The activity convened cooperative officers, board members, and general membership representatives to assess organizational performance, identify operational gaps, and define strategic priorities for the coming years. Through guided workshops and participatory discussions, the cooperative was able to align its programs and business initiatives with its long-term development goals and emerging market opportunities.

The strategic planning activity also reinforced Buon Pastore’s commitment to its core values of integrity, service excellence, innovation, sustainability, leadership, and empowerment. Step Up underscored the importance of balancing economic competitiveness with social responsibility by investing in human capital development, enhancing governance systems, and promoting participatory decision-making.

Step Up continues to support local organizations in their development efforts by providing technical assistance, capacity-building services, and strategic guidance toward the achievement of their long-term goals.

mikocanares Asia, Associates, Business Planning, Capacity Building, Consulting Services, core expertise, Core services, Facilitation, Governance, Local economic development, private sector, project management, workshops

Step Up Facilitates Pioneer Bank’s First Comprehensive Strategic Planning Session

Pioneer Bank (A Rural Bank), Inc., formerly known as the Rural Bank of Loboc, marked a significant milestone in its institutional development with the successful conduct of its Planning Workshop in November 2025. Facilitated by Step Up, the intensive session signaled the bank’s transition toward a more structured and forward-looking approach to growth, in line with its mandate to provide localized financial services under the regulatory framework of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

The workshop served as a technical forum that aligned Pioneer Bank’s institutional direction with the evolving economic landscape of the region. Participants undertook a rigorous validation of the bank’s vision and mission to ensure that its core values remained consistent with its long-term objectives.

To develop a data-driven roadmap, the leadership conducted an extensive environmental scan using PESTLE and SWOT analyses, enabling them to assess both external market conditions and internal operational capacities and to identify the key strategic issues that will shape the bank’s direction over the next five years.

The primary output of the session was the formulation of Strategic Goals for 2026–2031, which were translated into concrete Strategic Initiatives and detailed Action Plans. Bank officials emphasized that the planning exercise goes beyond compliance requirements, serving instead as a blueprint for strengthening community service delivery and institutional sustainability.

The consolidated outputs of the workshop will form the core of Pioneer Bank’s 2026–2031 Strategic Plan, reflecting a proactive shift toward modernized rural banking and a stronger contribution to sustainable regional development and financial inclusion in Bohol.

mikocanares Asia, Associates, Capacity Building, Consulting Services, core expertise, Core services, Facilitation, Monitoring and Evaluation, Non-Government Organizations, Training

Tailored M&E Workshop Equips WTRC for Strategic Program Evaluation

The Wholistic Transformation Resource Center Foundation, Inc. (WTRC) has taken a significant step forward in strengthening its community development work by participating in a customized Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) capacity development and training workshop.

Facilitated by Step Up Consulting Services, the workshop was specifically designed to align with WTRC’s unique programs and long-term goals, focusing on enhancing internal systems for transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement. This initiative reflects WTRC’s commitment to using data-driven approaches to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of its interventions.

The training aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of core M&E concepts and frameworks, build their capacity to design and implement effective data collection strategies, and improve their ability to analyze and interpret results accurately. WTRC staff also learned to use various M&E tools—such as logic models, performance indicators, and dashboards—to monitor program success and make informed decisions. A key outcome of the workshop was the development of tailored M&E systems that align with the foundation’s mission and can support long-term monitoring and evaluation practices.

Throughout the training, WTRC staff engaged in intensive sessions covering a broad range of M&E topics, including the Logical Framework, Results-Based M&E, and Theory of Change. Participants were also equipped with practical skills in data collection and analysis using tools such as Key Informant Interviews, Focus Group Discussions, and structured surveys. To ensure high data quality and credibility, the Triangulation Method was introduced alongside modern digital tools like Google Forms, Tableau, and AI-powered platforms for data visualization and analysis.

By embedding strong M&E systems across its operations, WTRC aims to align its efforts more closely with the expectations of donors, beneficiaries, and other stakeholders. This capacity-building initiative not only strengthens internal processes but also reinforces WTRC’s dedication to continuous improvement and evidence-based development work. Ultimately, the foundation believes that more effective monitoring and evaluation will lead to deeper, more meaningful, and lasting impacts in the communities it serves.

mikocanares Asia, Consulting Services, Core services

Step Up Identifies Key Enhancements for MFI Microinsurance in 2025 Competitiveness Review

Step Up has concluded a comprehensive review of client perceptions and market competitiveness on the enhanced microinsurance offerings by a leading Microfinance Institution (MFI) in the Philippines from January to March 2025. The evaluation aimed to measure the effectiveness, impact, and market positioning of these products, which are designed to deliver financial protection to low-income and vulnerable populations.

The 2025 review focused on gauging awareness, satisfaction, and user experience among policyholders and beneficiaries. The review took a detailed look at the revised features and procedural updates resulting from recent improvements to the MFI’s microinsurance offerings

A critical component of the review explored the potential for pricing adjustments to maintain the products’ affordability and accessibility, especially for financially constrained households. Findings from the study underscored the vital role these insurance products play in supporting communities through unexpected events such as accidents and medical emergencies. Many beneficiaries reported that the microinsurance served as a crucial safety net during times of crisis, reinforcing household resilience and economic stability.

The evaluation highlighted the strengths of MFI’s microinsurance offerings by benchmarking them alongside similar products in the market, showcasing competitive advantages in pricing, features, process efficiency, and delivery channels.

Based on the data gathered, Step Up issued targeted recommendations aimed at enhancing the value, efficiency, and outreach of the MFI’s microinsurance program. These insights are instrumental in shaping the next phase of product development, ensuring broader impact and improved financial security for underserved communities.

mikocanares Asia, Consulting Services, core expertise, Core services, Facilitation, Local Government Units, Research Projects

Step Up Conducts  Series of Data Gathering Activities for Urban Climate Finance Study in Tagbilaran City

Step Up conducts a series of data-gathering activities for Tagbilaran City Tagbilaran city-level scoping study on enabling conditions for urban climate finance and provides technical support and recommendations to mainstream climate change considerations and Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) perspectives into the cities’ investment plans. This is part of a research study commissioned by the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities.

The study aims to assess the enabling conditions for climate financing at the city level, leveraging the methodology developed by the Cities Climate Finance Leadership Alliance (CCFLA). This methodology focuses on the “National Assessment of Enabling Framework Conditions for Subnational Climate Finance”. It will be utilized to gauge how well Tagbilaran is positioned to access climate finance for its urban development projects.

Key objectives include:

  1. Developing a scoping study on the conditions that facilitate climate finance in Tagbilaran.
  2. Assessing the city’s development investment programs with a focus on climate and Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) considerations.

As part of the study, a range of data collection activities have been scheduled, including focus group discussions, interviews with key stakeholders, and a review of existing documents related to investment planning to provide recommendations for integrating climate change mitigation and adaptation measures, along with GEDSI perspectives, into the city’s investment plans.

The fieldwork for this project officially began with a courtesy call to the Office of the City Mayor, where City Administrator Mr. Alvin Acuzar welcomed the team on 30 September 2024. Several focus group discussions followed, bringing together department heads, members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, civil society organizations, and the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) of Manga to gather insights on the city’s current plans and opportunities for advancement.

The Urban Act Project is a collaboration between ICSC, the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), Clean Air Asia (CAA), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). It is set to implement its activities in Tagbilaran, Antipolo, and Bacolod, with the aim of promoting low-carbon and climate-resilient cities across the country.

The research and scoping study are expected to conclude by December 2024, providing critical insights that will help shape the city’s climate adaptation strategies and financial frameworks for sustainable urban growth.

mikocanares Asia, Capacity Building, Consulting Services, core expertise, Core services, Facilitation, Inclusion, Monitoring and Evaluation, Non-Government Organizations, project development, project management, Training

Step Up Supports Emerging Leaders through WRTC

Step Up was commissioned by the Wholistic Transformation Resource Center (WTRC) to facilitate Youth Development and Empowerment Training and Capacity Development on Project Management for the leaders of the Church of Nazarene—GMA as part of its ongoing partnership with the church.

Capacity Development on Project Management

The training, which took place from July 13 to September 14, 2024, was a key initiative to strengthen the project management skills of Church of Nazarene – GMA leaders. The blended sessions—face-to-face and online activities—focused on various stages of project management, including project conception, planning, execution, and monitoring.

The program followed a three-step approach to build the skills of project staff and volunteers:

  1. Capacity Assessment: The first step involved evaluating the current competencies of project staff and volunteers to determine the skills needed for effective project management.
  2. Project Management Strategy Development: In the second step, leaders and volunteers collaborated to create a comprehensive project management strategy detailing the tools and methods for successful project execution and monitoring.
  3. Monitoring and Documentation: The final phase of the training focused on equipping participants with the skills needed to document project progress and assess the impacts of their initiatives to continuously improve the quality and effectiveness of their projects.

The training covered key topics like project initiation, planning, launching, and control, enabling participants to develop a structured approach to managing community-based projects. This initiative improved the leaders’ project management skills and reinforced WTRC’s mission of fostering holistic transformation through partnerships with churches, social enterprises, and other community-based organizations.

The completion of this training marks a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between Step Up, WTRC, and the Church of Nazarene—GMA. It reinforces the foundation’s commitment to developing leaders who can drive meaningful change in marginalized communities and support its mission of building stronger, more sustainable communities across the nation.

Youth Development and Empowerment

The training conducted from 20 July to 21 September 2024 focused on building leadership skills, fostering self-care, and enhancing confidence in public speaking. It equipped youth leaders to manage their activities effectively and lead with purpose.
The workshop was designed around key actions to empower participants and create inclusive, supportive spaces for personal and collective growth. Among these strategies were discussions on the importance of self-care and empathy toward others, ensuring that participants felt encouraged to create welcoming environments within their ministries.
A needs assessment conducted through focus group discussions revealed that participants were particularly keen on improving their public speaking abilities, especially when engaging with children and other youth in the ministry. They expressed a desire for leadership training that moved beyond traditional formats, advocating for more interactive, engaging, and meaningful activities. Participants were also eager to explore topics like mental health, online communities, and how to encourage youth participation in ministry.
The training was structured around four main sessions, each designed to be participatory and centred on peer learning. These sessions included:

  1. Session 1: Participation in an Inclusive and Safe Spaces (Care for Self and Others) – Emphasizing the importance of creating inclusive, caring environments where everyone’s voice can be heard.
  2. Session 2: Safety in the Online World – Offering tools and strategies to navigate the complexities of online engagement while ensuring safety for both leaders and youth members.
  3. Session 3: Building Interpersonal Relationships, Self-Confidence, and Communication Skills – Fostering stronger communication, interpersonal skills, and confidence to engage with others effectively.
  4. Session 4: The Leaders We Hope to Become – Encouraging youth to reflect on the qualities they wish to embody as future leaders, helping them align their values with their leadership style.

The dynamic and hands-on nature of the sessions allowed participants to interact directly with their peers, share ideas, and engage in plenary discussions. With an emphasis on creativity, group work, and idea-sharing, the training ensured that each participant had the chance to discover their personal strengths and overcome challenges, especially those related to public speaking.
“Interactive activities, group discussions, and peer-led sharing were key aspects of the training,” explained one participant. “It helped us learn from the facilitator and each other, making the experience much more meaningful.”
The training initiative aligns with Step Up’s broader mission to develop young leaders who are capable, confident, and ready to make a lasting impact in their communities. As the Church of Nazarene – GMA youth leaders implement the skills they’ve learned, Step Up hopes to continue supporting their growth and empowerment through future.

mikocanares Asia, Associates, Capacity Building, Consulting Services, core expertise, Core services, Facilitation, Monitoring and Evaluation, Non-Government Organizations

Step Up Facilitates End of Project Evaluation of SWCF Initiative in Bilar, Bohol

The Step-Up team has successfully concluded the end-of-project evaluation of the Strengthening Local Stakeholders and Community’s Capacity to Improve Environment Management in Bilar, Bohol Philippines Project. Spanning over three years, this initiative aimed to transform Bilar into a model municipality for sustainable environmental management and conservation.

The project focused on enhancing local stakeholders’ involvement in karst education, landscape management, biodiversity conservation, and climate change adaptation. It sought to bolster environmental ethics while ensuring the sustainable use of resources within the community.

Key objectives of the evaluation included assessing the effectiveness of local stakeholders’ management plans for the karst landscape, improvements in local biodiversity, enhanced management of freshwater resources, advancements in solid waste management, reduced agricultural chemical use, and the promotion of eco-tourism.

Moreover, the evaluation examined the progress of partner barangays and communities in making informed environmental management decisions. It also evaluated the implementation and utilization of disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) plans, ensuring their functionality and effectiveness.

Particular attention was given to assessing the capacity-building efforts aimed at youths and local stakeholders who are advocating for environmental sustainability. The project aimed to empower the next generation with the knowledge and skills needed to champion environmental conservation in their community.

mikocanares Capacity Building, Consulting Services, core expertise, Core services, Non-Government Organizations, Training

Step Up Explores Capacity Building Partnership with WTRC for Projects and Youth Development

The Wholistic Transformation Resource Center Foundation, Inc., (WTRC) explores a partnership with Step Up Consulting Services to enhance capacity-building initiatives for its assisted organizations.

A focus group discussion was held at the Church of Nazarene in General Mariano Alvarez in Cavite to gather insights on the organization’s current needs. Participants explored effective interventions aimed at fostering empowerment and enabling communities to take initiative in their own development.

WTRC is a non-profit Christian organization focused on holistic transformation by addressing the complete needs of individuals, not just their economic ones. Rooted in Gospel principles, WTRC collaborates with churches, development organizations, and social enterprises to implement community development initiatives that meet the needs of partner communities. One key program supports marginalized children through faith-based schools, mobile education, daycare, and afterschool centers, offering Christian character formation, quality education, health and nutrition support, and family assistance.

The Step Up team is currently designing a series of training sessions focused on youth development and competency building in project management.

mikocanares Africa, Asia, Consulting Services, core expertise, Core services, Gender and Development, Local economic development, Results-based Management

Step Up Consulting Completes Assessment Study on Microfinance Client Continuity and Loan Program Impact

In a proactive stride aimed at fortifying the efficacy and longevity of microfinance initiatives, Step Up Consulting has wrapped up an insightful assessment study shedding light on pivotal factors influencing client continuity and engagement within microfinance institutions (MFIs).

The study meticulously examined the concerning trend of active borrowers transitioning into inactive status within MFIs. This trend, which has sparked concerns among MFI leadership, underscores theneed to uncover the root causes behind clients’ hesitancy to participate in subsequent loan cycles.

Understanding that sustained client involvement is paramount for the success and societal impact of microfinance endeavors, the study delved deep into the intricacies of client behavior and preferences. Its objective was to produce actionable insights to fortify strategies for bolstering client retention and participation.

By grappling with the core challenges impeding client continuity and engagement, the study meticulously explored avenues to foster a more inclusive and sustainable microfinance landscape. Such an environment holds the promise of harnessing the transformative potential of financial inclusion to its fullest extent.