Mary Lynn Tilag

mary-lynn-tilag

Manila resident Mary Lynn Tilag understands the importance of family and education. Yet providing for even these basic necessities seemed to be an endless challenge. There were many years where she wondered if their next meal would even come. Her husband, Ariston, was unqualified for any job, and there seemed to be no way to earn a living for their family. Then she heard of Philippines Manila Development Foundation's (PMDF) micro finance program. She attended a Center Meeting to find out how she could obtain one of the small loans she had heard about.

With her first loan, Mary Lynn purchased a used bench grinder for her husband. With the grinder they were able to open a small saw blade business. Ariston fashions saws of all kinds and sizes. He also sharpens them for people. In addition he produces handles, knives, axes and scissors. With a steady hand he cuts the small teeth into each blade watching the sparks fly.

"My husband could not work before because there were no jobs. Now, because of PMDF he can help provide for our family," smiles Mary Lynn.

In addition to selling and sharpening saws, Mary Lynn runs a small Sari Sari store selling vegetables, a variety of groceries and other accessories. "The funding from PMDF has given me the courage that I can succeed." Mary Lynn is now on her 8th loan cycle. In addition to feeding and clothing her family, she has been able to pay for her children to have an education.

With four boys and one girl ranging from 18 to 1 years, she has children in elementary school through college. "PMDF has given me hope; it has given opportunities for my children," she says giving her baby a squeeze.