Financial literacy and sustainable development of microentrepreneurs in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro

This study was conducted purposely to improve the financial literacy of microentrepreneurs in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, to ensure the sustainable development of their business.This study identified the areas of financial literacy of microentrepreneurs that need improvement.This study revealed the extent of microentrepreneurs' financial literacy in financial planning, cash management, and loan management.Moreover, the level of sustainable development in terms of business management decisions, effective debt repayment, and societal benefits was also revealed, as was the relationship between financial literacy and sustainable development.A validated and reliable set of questionnaires was used to gather data from two hundred fifty-five (255) microentrepreneurs in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro.The study showed a great level of financial literacy in financial planning, cash management, and loan management.A high level across the three examined dimensions of sustainable development, such as business management decision, effective debt payment, and societal benefit, was also indicated.The study further revealed that the level of financial literacy among microentrepreneurs is significantly related to their level of sustainable development.It is then concluded that stronger financial knowledge and sound financial practices can support sound business management decisions, effective debt repayment, and enhanced societal benefit.However, the findings also revealed that financial planning is not significantly related to business management decisions.The researcher proposed and recommended a financial literacy program to help microentrepreneurs improve their financial literacy and ensure the sustainable development of their businesses.The collaborative efforts of the local government unit and agencies, as well as financial and academic institutions, will likely improve microentrepreneurs' financial literacy, enabling them to manage their businesses more effectively.