A Research Study on the Needs and Concerns of the Orihinal Na Magbabasket ng Nueva Ecija (Omne)

The study aims at identifying the needs and concerns of Orihinal na Magbabasket ng Nueva Ecija (OMNE) located in the municipality of Bongabon, province of Nueva Ecija. OMNE happens to be one of the beneficiaries of the Graduate School – Business Administration Program of the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology Extension Program. This has also the support of the Department of Trade and Industry and the Local Government Unit of Bongabon. OMNE's concentration is basket production made of rattan. Other by-products include home decors and handicrafts and other made-to-order items such as plant and wine receptacles. Rattan products are desired for its many uses, aesthetic appeal, and for its being environment friendly. It has also a demand in the international market. This has provided jobs and income for the Bongabon residents. Although this has been operating for decades now, its market potential has not been harnessed. The situation should be addressed as opportunities abound for this industry to involve a wider participation of the community in realizing a sustainable economic development for the betterment of the people's lives. Findings further revealed that OMNE faces issues such as weak workplace culture and lack of clear organizational structure; lack of product promotions and marketing, and seldom uses social media; limited market outlets; too small a space for production; outdated tools; difficulty sourcing raw materials; few skilled manpower; restricted knowledge on bookkeeping, product design included; inadequate capital and high cost of production.