Violeta was involved in agas twining and selling fresh fish at Pilar Market, while her husband worked as a fisherman, before she joined SEDP. They managed to get by without major issues, but Violeta had previously been a member of three other MFIs before resigning upon joining SEDP.

She was drawn to SEDP by its low interest rates, insurance benefits, and its connection to the church, finding it more holistic than just financial transactions. Using her first loan to boost her agas twining business, she evolved from a twiner to a buyer/seller of semi-finished products, expanding her network of twiners across neighboring barangays.

Despite challenges like raw material scarcity and buyer interruptions, Violeta persisted. After four years with SEDP, she qualified for a larger loan, which she used as a down payment to establish a water refilling station, anticipating success due to lack of competition. With the water refilling station operational, they diversified into a sari-sari store.

Their businesses enabled them to create employment opportunities in their community and support their children's education, with two already graduated and employed, and the youngest soon to follow. SEDP's trainings and seminars enhanced Violeta's knowledge and self-confidence, while her role as Center Chief taught her patience and strengthened her leadership skills. While she wouldn't describe her family as rich, they are certainly no longer poor, thanks to SEDP's support and opportunities.