A Journey of Social Impact and Intertwined Relationships – Part 1

The SEDPI Group of Social Enterprises, since its inception in 2004, has been a beacon for social investments, ethical financing, and financial education, all aimed at uplifting Filipinos from the clutches of poverty. With eight collaborative entities, the organization has been diligently executing its three pivotal programs: SEDPI KaSosyo, SEDPI KaNegosyo, and Usapang Pera. However, like any organization, SEDPI grapples with its own set of challenges, one of which is navigating the intricate web of romantic relationships within its workforce. This case study delves into this delicate balance of maintaining professional integrity while respecting personal choices.

Empowering Filipinos, One Program at a Time

The SEDPI Group envisions a world where Filipinos globally rally behind sustainable nanoenterprises. Their three-pronged approach includes:

1. SEDPI KaSosyo: Championing social investments.
2. SEDPI KaNegosyo: Offering sustainable and ethical financing.
3. Usapang Pera: Spreading the gospel of financial education.

These initiatives collectively aim to better the lives of Filipinos everywhere.

Guided by Values, Recognized for Excellence

At the heart of SEDPI lie core values: a commitment to the social and solidarity economy, embracing diversity, rewarding socially beneficial performance, and upholding transparency. This dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Among its accolades, the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2012 and the Balikat ng Bayan Award in 2019 stand out. Founders Vince Rapisura and Edwin Salonga, proud members of the LGBTQIA+ community, have also been imparting knowledge at the Ateneo de Manila University for nearly two decades.

Making a Global Impact

SEDPI’s influence isn’t just limited to its core activities. It actively contributes to various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), from eradicating poverty to promoting gender equality. With a reach spanning 18,000 nanoenterprises, 125 dedicated employees, and 15 operational branches, SEDPI’s footprint is significant.

Work Arrangement

The unique work arrangement at SEDPI involves branches serving as both office and housing for staff from Monday to Friday. Given this setup, maintaining peaceful and ethical workplace relationships is crucial. While SEDPI respects the personal choices of its staff, it aims to ensure that romantic relationships do not influence work performance or compromise the integrity of its operations.

Roles and Functions of Branch Staff

The Branch Manager oversees all branch operations, ensuring the effective implementation of SEDPI’s unique KaNegosyo program, along with other key programs. Functions:

• Oversee the execution of KaNegosyo, KaTambayayong, and KaIpon within the branch’s jurisdiction.
• Manage the branch budget and financial activities, including joint venture capital disbursements and repayments.
• Coordinate with Financial Inclusion Officers to identify potential areas and members for center formation.
• Handle conflict resolution in line with SEDPI’s ethical standards.

Reporting Line: Reports directly to Area Manager.

The Assistant Branch Manager supports the Branch Manager in all aspects, particularly in the effective implementation of the KaNegosyo program. Functions:

• Assist in the planning and execution of KaNegosyo and its sub-programs.
• Supervise Financial Inclusion Officers in conducting initial community meetings and center formations.
• Help manage the branch’s financial activities, including the monitoring of KaIpon savings as collateral.
• Assist in conflict resolution and ensure a harmonious work environment.

Reporting Line: Reports directly to the Branch Manager.

Financial Inclusion Officers are crucial in the grassroots implementation of the KaNegosyo program, focusing on center formation and financial education. There are usually four to five financial inclusion officers in a branch. Functions:

• Conduct initial community meetings to introduce SEDPI KaNegosyo and its sub-programs.
• Facilitate the formation of centers, consisting of 10 to 30 self-selected members.
• Implement financial education programs, including training sessions on the terms and conditions of KaNegosyo, the importance of savings, and the concept of ‘damayan’ (mutual aid).
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of the KaNegosyo program on the community.

Reporting Line: Reports to the Assistant Branch Manager or directly to the Branch Manager.

The Service Staff maintains the cleanliness of the office and prepares meals for the branch staff, contributing to a comfortable living and working environment. Functions:

• Prepare meals for the staff.
• Maintain the cleanliness of the office and living quarters.
• Ensure that the branch environment adheres to health and safety standards.

Reporting Line: Reports to the Assistant Branch Manager or directly to the Branch Manager.

Mike’s employment journey in SEDPI

The sun was just beginning to rise over Siargao, casting a golden hue over the famous waves, when young Mike would set out to fish with his father. Those were simpler times, before his parents separated and before the weight of poverty pressed down on him. The island, known for its surfing spots, was Mike’s childhood playground. But as he grew older, the challenges of life took him away from the island’s shores to Agusan, where he pursued a tech voc course.

The course wasn’t easy for Mike. The shadow of family issues loomed large, and financial constraints meant he finished his studies much later than his peers. But Mike was resilient. At 25, with a tech voc certificate in hand and a determination to make something of himself, he joined SEDPI as a Financial Inclusion Officer.

His early days at SEDPI were marked by a steep learning curve. While he was diligent and committed, his performance was, admittedly, not stellar. Among his batchmates, Mike was the slow climber. While they soared to higher positions, becoming assistant branch managers or even branch managers, Mike remained in his initial role. The whispers around the office didn’t escape him. Some said he lacked the drive; others felt he was content in his comfort zone.

One day, during a routine review meeting, the SEDPI President, having observed Mike’s work, decided to have a candid conversation with him. “Mike,” he began, leaning forward, “I’ve seen your work. You have potential, a lot of it. But potential without action is wasted. I challenge you to step up.”

Mike looked up, meeting the President’s gaze. The words struck a chord. “I understand, sir,” he replied, determination evident in his voice. “I’ll rise to the challenge.”

True to his word, the next six months saw a transformed Mike. He worked tirelessly, improving his skills, building stronger relationships with nanoenterprises, and going above and beyond his duties. His efforts didn’t go unnoticed. In recognition of his outstanding performance, he was promoted to the position of Assistant Branch Manager.

Mike’s journey didn’t stop there. With continued dedication and an unwavering commitment to SEDPI’s mission, he was soon given the responsibility of leading the Barobo branch as its Branch Manager. The boy from Siargao, who once dreamt amidst the waves, had now risen to navigate the challenging waters of leadership.

And as he sat in his new office, looking out at the community he was now responsible for, Mike remembered the President’s challenge. It was a reminder that with belief, hard work, and a little push, one could truly realize their potential.

From center meetings to forming a family

The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, golden hue over the community center. Mike, as the Financial Inclusion Officer, was facilitating a center meeting, discussing the intricacies of the KaNegosyo program. The room was filled with the usual attendees, but today, there was a new face that caught Mike’s attention.

Sitting quietly by the window, with a gentle smile playing on her lips, was Cherry. She was there, not as a member, but as the neighbor of the center chief. Every time Mike explained a point or shared an anecdote, he couldn’t help but notice her nodding in agreement or laughing softly. Their eyes met a few times, and each time, there was an unspoken connection, a spark that neither could ignore.

After the meeting, as the members dispersed, Mike mustered the courage to approach Cherry. “Hi, I noticed you during the meeting. Are you interested in joining our program?” he asked, trying to sound as professional as possible.

Cherry chuckled, “Not exactly. I was just accompanying my neighbor. But I must say, your passion for what you do is quite evident. It’s inspiring.”

The two struck up a conversation, and as the days turned into weeks, their casual chats after the center meetings became longer, more personal. They discovered shared dreams, aspirations, and even heartaches. Cherry opened up about her past relationship and the child it had blessed her with. Mike admired her strength and resilience, while Cherry was drawn to his dedication and kindness.

Their bond grew stronger, and love blossomed. Mike, 36, with his wisdom and experience, and Cherry, 27, with her youthful exuberance, complemented each other perfectly. Before they knew it, they were building a life together. They welcomed three beautiful children into their lives, adding to the joy that Cherry’s 6-year-old from her previous relationship brought them.

Their home was filled with laughter, love, and the occasional cry of their 9-month-old. Through the ups and downs, the couple remained each other’s pillar of strength, drawing from their shared experiences at SEDPI and their journey of love and understanding.

Beyond Office Hours: Secrets and Scandals in Barobo

In the bustling Barobo branch of SEDPI, Mike’s presence was unmistakable. His age and experience set him apart from the younger Financial Inclusion Officers, most of whom were just starting their careers in their early 20s. Mike’s hot temper, perhaps a result of the age gap and his own journey, made him a formidable figure in the office. The staff, especially the younger ones, often treaded lightly around him, wary of his outbursts.

Mike’s journey in SEDPI was marked by the influence of his previous branch manager, Gem. Gem was a charismatic leader, but her leadership style was divisive. She created cliques within the branch, leading to a sense of alienation from the larger SEDPI family. But what was even more scandalous was the rumor of her affair with Eugene, a fellow FIO and Mike’s contemporary. Despite her vehement denials, whispers persisted. The climax came when both Gem and Eugene faced suspension and eventually resigned. Later, the staff discovered that Gem had separated from her husband and was, in fact, living with Eugene. The rumors had been true.

Mike’s tenure as the branch manager started on a high note. He efficiently cleared the backlogs left by his predecessors, earning accolades and respect. However, soon after his confirmation, the efficiency waned, and work started piling up. Rea, the area manager, noticed this decline but chose to address it with verbal instructions rather than formal reprimands.

But the real talk of the branch was the budding relationship between Mike and Richie, an FIO. While their interactions within the office were professional, outside, they were often seen together, fueling speculations of a romantic relationship. Mike’s sudden interest in fieldwork, especially when it involved Richie, didn’t go unnoticed. He claimed he was teaching her to ride a motorcycle, but the staff knew better.

Richie, a mother to a 10-year-old and facing issues with her live-in partner, found herself in the midst of these rumors. The situation escalated during a beach trip when Mike openly admitted to courting Richie, seeking the staff’s support and discretion.

However, secrets have a way of unraveling. The head office soon caught wind of the situation and acted swiftly. Mike was given a forced leave, while Richie was transferred to another branch to prevent conflicts of interest. But the story took another twist when Richie, perhaps overwhelmed by the situation, stopped showing up at her new branch, eventually being declared absent without official leave.

The Barobo branch, with its mix of professional achievements and personal entanglements, became a testament to the complexities of workplace relationships and the thin line between personal and professional boundaries.

1. What behavior/s, relevant to the case, could be a theme for a social marketing campaign?
2. Using the continuum of interventions framework, match behaviors that would be best suited for education, social marketing or law. Explain your answer.
3. Prepare a SWOT and PEST analysis for SEDPI’s social marketing plan