In photo: DTI Secretary Fred Pascual together with President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., DTI Undersecretary Chris Roque, Vice Chair of the MSME Development Council and GoNegosyo founder Joey Concepcion, and the outstanding MSMEs from the regions

Manila, Philippines—Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Fred Pascual lauded the remarkable achievements of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at the 2024 Presidential Awards for Outstanding MSME, July 10. The event, hosted by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., marked the return of the prestigious award after a 15-year hiatus.

“MSMEs are the lifeblood of our nation’s economy. With over 1.1 million business establishments, they drive innovation, create jobs, and fuel growth across the country. Today, we are recognizing seven outstanding small and medium enterprises, each representing their respective major island groups,” said Secretary Pascual.

In photo: DTI Secretary Fred Pascual together with President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., DTI Undersecretary Chris Roque, Vice Chair of the MSME Development Council and GoNegosyo founder Joey Concepcion, and the Presidential Awardee for Outstanding MSME in the small enterprise category-Kawayan Collective Agricultural Cooperative from Negros Oriental

The awards recognize businesses that have demonstrated exceptional growth, competitiveness, innovation, and sustainability. This year’s winners were selected from two categories: “Small Enterprise” and “Medium Enterprise”. A rigorous evaluation process, from April to June, saw 96 nominees undergo regional and national evaluations based on their market breakthroughs, human resource development, and community impact.

The distinguished finalists for the Presidential Awards for Outstanding MSMEs were Island Group Winners, representing diverse regions across the country—(1) Northern Luzon: HeySuccess Virtual Assistance Services; (2) Southern Luzon: Ai-She Footwear and Tropical Palm Herb Manufacturing; (3) Visayas: Jojie’s Bakeshop and Kawayan Collective Agricultural Cooperative; and (4) Mindanao: Nelly Coffee and Tablea and Malagos Agri-Ventures Corporation.

In photo: DTI Secretary Fred Pascual together with President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., DTI Undersecretary Chris Roque, Vice Chair of the MSME Development Council and GoNegosyo founder Joey Concepcion, and the Presidential Awardee for Outstanding MSME in the medium enterprise category-Malagos Agriventures Corporation from Davao City

Additionally, the Presidential Recognition for Outstanding Development Partners was presented to institutions with remarkable programs and services aimed at supporting MSMEs. Among the recipients were: (1) the City Government of Biñan, recognized for its impactful barangay micro business enterprises (BMBE) incentives that have stimulated business activity; and (2) Capiz State University CAPSULE Technology Business Incubator, lauded for facilitating technology transfer and prototype commercialization support to MSMEs.

“They are more than just the backbone of the economy but the beating heart of Filipino entrepreneurship. Their achievements showcase remarkable resilience and dedication to excellence,” Secretary Pascual said as he commended the awardees.

The 2024 Presidential Awards for Outstanding MSMEs is a flagship initiative spearheaded by the DTI’s MSME Development Group led by Usec. Ma. Cristina A. Roque.

“Today, we honor the relentless spirit and innovation of Filipino MSMEs, the true backbone of our nation’s economic progress. This initiative is aligned with the vision of ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ as it celebrates the resilience and innovation of MSMEs and recognizes their vital role in the country’s economic growth,” said Usec. Roque.

The event, held through the Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, also builds on the strong support from MSME Development Council Vice Chairperson Joey Concepcion.

Under the trade chief’s leadership, the DTI has been at the forefront of championing the growth and development of MSMEs. The Department has implemented comprehensive programs aimed at empowering MSMEs through capacity building, improved access to financing, market development, and technology adoption.

Moreover, one of the DTI’s strategic goals, ANGAT Negosyo, focuses on integrating digital technologies to enhance the competitiveness of MSMEs. To achieve this, the Department is spearheading initiatives to facilitate training, mentorship, and access to e-commerce platforms. These concerted efforts enable MSMEs to expand their market reach and tap into the growing digital economy.

Originally established in 2009, the Presidential Awards for Outstanding MSMEs experienced a hiatus before being revived in 2024 through the initiative of Secretary Pascual. ♦

Date of release: 10 July 2024

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