In the Philippines, “tambay” from the expression “stand by,” refers to Filipinos hanging out at home-based convenient stores called, “sari-saring tindahan.” Typically, a tambay at a sari-sari store means that that person has been out of job or has been out of school for some time. Sadly, this scenario has become a prominent part of Filipino culture as a result of a long history of poverty.

As part of the centenary celebration of the Rotary Club of Manila in 2018, GPMI teamed up with Ayala Foundation and the Local Government of Manila in a 6-month community development project called, “Sari-Saring Aralan.” Acknowledging the critical role Filipino youths play in community development, Sari-Saring Aralan aimed to convert the proverbial sari-sari store tambayan into a venue of learning and skills training. The sari-sari store was used as a venue for value system formation and acquisition of entrepreneurial skills. At the end of the program, participants should have assimilated the 3 E’s: Education, Employment and Entrepreneurship. Each of the participants also was provided access to finance services to help start up a small family business.