To empower the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and consumers by sharing timely and relevant information for the development of businesses and protection of consumers, the Department of Trade and Industry – Cavite successfully launched the e-Sigaw website on February 9, 2023, via Zoom. The e-SIGAW (e-Share Information, Gain Awareness) is a breakthrough project of the DTI Cavite to promote DTI programs and services to the public.
The project started in 2022 where DTI Cavite was tasked on a more extensive implementation of the platform with a focus on website development to provide organized and retrievable information for its clients. Called the e-SIGAW Website, the project is an internet site that features the following services and contents: e-ANGAT MSMEs, an online mentoring facility that provides MSMEs an easy access to local mentors, private organizations, and government agencies for their business development and information needs; e-BIDA ang LOKAL, a business-to-business commerce site to promote products of Cavite MSMEs, particularly those that have undergone product development through the One Town, One Product (OTOP) Next Generation Program; e-KONEK NEGOSYO, a directory of Cavite MSMEs, particularly beneficiaries of the Shared Service Facilities (SSF) Program, Kapatid Mentor Me (KMME) Program, and OTOP NextGen Program; e-TRAIN to LEARN, a calendar of activities and training to be conducted by DTI Cavite and access to e-learning materials; and e-CONSUMER CORNER, an information hub that features the programs and services offered by the DTI Cavite Consumer Protection Division, which include the Bagwis Program, Consumer Advocacy, accreditation and issuance of business licenses, permits, registration, and authorities, and monitoring and enforcement of Fair Trade Laws. Moreover, the e-CONSUMER CORNER serves as a gateway in airing consumer complaints and posting latest information about consumerism such as updated DTI-Department Administrative Orders/guidelines, Suggested Retail Prices, etc.
“Aside from the desire to deliver innovative services, the initiative to reinvent the e-SIGAW project stems from the observed increase in the number of online inquiries from clients, especially those pandemic-born businesses and other aspiring entrepreneurs who want to avail the services of DTI,” said DTI 4-A OIC-Assistant Regional Director Revelyn Cortez.
The shift to the “new normal” where consumers are more comfortable transacting online has intensified the need for consumer education. As more consumers become vulnerable to online fraud and unconscionable sales acts and practices, DTI Cavite strengthens its commitment to increasing awareness and protecting the general welfare of consumers.
“We are very proud of the whole DTI Cavite Team for this wonderful achievement in expanding their assistance to MSMEs and consumers not just in the Cavite province but also to its neighboring provinces. We are sure that more people will benefit from this project in terms of information and awareness of the DTI projects, programs, and activities,” said DTI Region 4-A Consumer Protection Division Chief Felizardo Cupit in his inspirational message.
“Through e-Sigaw, DTI Cavite now has an online resource system 24/7. Cavite is known as the Land of the Brave. True to its name, this project by the Caviteños of the DTI is revolutionary and bold yet innovative, productive, engaging, and informative,” said DTI-Knowledge Management and Information Services OIC Director Alfonso Valenzuela.
The public can access the e-sigaw website through this link: esigaw.dti.gov.ph ♦
Date of release: 09 February 2023