In order to elevate the cause of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the region, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region VII recently mounted the Sandugo Trade Expo last July 25 to 29 at the Island City Mall, Tagbilaran City, Bohol.
Dubbed “Best of the Islands,” the event showcased export quality products of an estimated 130 exhibitors from across the coountry, showcasing souvenir items, wearables and homestyle (furniture, furnishings, fashion accessories), processed food, gifts, and decors.
According to DTI Regional Director Aster Caberte, these exhibitors included those who came from the One Town One Product (OTOP) Program of the department. The OTOP program supports MSMEs in manufacturing and marketing distinctive products and services made using indigenous raw materials.
The OTOP also aims to offer a package of public-private assistance in order for MSMEs with minimum viable products to come up with better offerings with significant improvement and innovation in the areas of quality, product development, standards compliance, marketability, production capability, and brand development.
Participation also came from MSMEs that were part of the DTI’s Kapatid Mentor Micro Enterprise (KMME) and the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE), which aims to uplift the state of MSMEs and their competitiveness.
The KMME, for its part, was a free three-month long business seminar consisting of a series of mentoring sessions headed by respected business leaders.
Caberte explained that the KMME aims to scale up MSMEs through the weekly theoretical, conceptual discussions and mentoring sessions on the different functional areas of entrepreneurship by distinguished businessmen.
“Beyond the books and seminars, our mentors are experienced entrepreneurs and seasoned business lecturers who have what it takes to share their wisdom and formulas to the upcoming entrepreneurs,” she reiterated.
The Go Negosyo Act was underscored in lifting the plight of MSMEs since these comprise 99.7% of all registered businesses in the country and serves as the backbone of the national economy.
 
By RICHARD RAMOS