BAGUIO CITY – In a bid to bolster local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), a Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) official has called on companies and the general public to support products crafted by these small businesses. The appeal was made by Lawyer Samuel Gallardo, the regional director for DTI in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), who emphasized the high quality of the region’s local products at a press conference marking the start of Consumer Welfare Month.
According to Philippines News Agency, during the event held in Baguio City, Gallardo highlighted that local MSMEs, supported by various government initiatives, offer a diverse array of products including coffee, chocolates from locally-grown cacao, and furniture. These items are showcased at One Town, One Product (OTOP) hubs, where consumers can explore a variety of offerings ranging from fruit jams and vegetable noodles to scented candles and organic teas. Gift packs, priced between PHP1,500 and PHP2,000, also include handcrafted goods such as scarves, handicraft items, preserves, and pastries.
Gallardo pointed out that there are over 22,000 MSMEs in the region benefitting from government-led programs aimed at enhancing their business operations and increasing their market reach. Training sessions cover essential areas such as business opening strategies, operation improvements, marketing, packaging, licensing, and permitting. These initiatives are part of broader efforts to strengthen a sector that represents more than 90% of businesses in the Philippines.
The DTI’s support for MSMEs is crucial, Gallardo noted, as it not only helps these enterprises flourish but also creates significant employment opportunities, thereby contributing to the livelihood of many. The business coaching program ‘Kapatid Mentor Me’, implemented with the assistance of larger corporations, is one such initiative enhancing MSME capabilities and ensuring their growth and sustainability in the competitive market.