TARLAC CITY (PIA) — A total of 38 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) currently participate in the Tarlac Provincial Trade Fair 2023.
Being held at the ground floor of SM City Tarlac, it features food and non-food items.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 3 MSME Business Development Division Chief Warren Serrano said the trade fair carries the theme “Building a Strong Future Together” and aims to generate total sales of about P1 million.
“We want you [MSMEs] to be the biggest driver in our economy. To be able to do that, we must do holistic efforts not only by DTI but by all agencies and stakeholders to really put you up there,” he emphasized.
Serrano urged MSMEs to maximize the local and international trade fairs to promote their products, benchmark on other exhibitors, and interact with customers for feedback.
He added that this will further enhance their competitiveness and access to the market.
Moreover, Serrano pushed the MSMEs to develop themselves through the assistance and programs of DTI.
“Capacitate yourself and learn from your mentors. DTI offers mentoring programs and market matching sessions to help you generate a significant amount to upsize and upgrade your business. You can always reach out to us if you need help,” he noted.
For her part, DTI Tarlac OIC-Provincial Director Florencia Balilo reiterated the support of the agency to the growth of MSMEs as they serve as the backbone of the economy.
“Our government will never get tired of supporting you. We, at the DTI, will continuously help you upgrade your technology, upskill your workforce, and upsize your operations,” Balilo said.
Meanwhile, Philippine Chamber of Commerce Inc. (PCCI) Tarlac awarded P10,000 each to five existing businesses and five potential entrepreneurs selected during the Tarlac Business Conference and Expo.
PCCI Tarlac President and Provincial MSME Development Council Chairperson Aileen Chan explained that the Pangkabuhayan Packages were given to mentees who qualified the set criteria.
“The MSMEs are close to our hearts. We [PCCI Tarlac] are here as a big brother to help our small brothers in the business industry. Anytime you need help, we are here to lend a helping hand,” Chan assured.
The trade fair will run from August to September and could be extended until December.
SOURCE: Trixie Joy B. Manalili PIA3
