BAGUIO CITY – The National MSME Week 2023 Celebration commence on Calderon Street, Baguio City, paying tribute to the excellence, unwavering resilience, and remarkable growth of our local and homegrown MSMEs. Centered around the theme “Upgrade, Upskill & Upsize Small Businesses,” this event brought together the finest MSMEs from Baguio City and Benguet, showcasing their innovative products and services.
The official opening of the event was marked by the untying of the ribbon ceremony, led by Engr. Doy Tabilog, Atty. Leticia Clemente, RD Juliet Lucas, OIC-ARD Atty. Samuel Gallardo, OIC-PD Felicitas Bandonill, Ms. Sonia Go (Wife of Congressman Go), and representatives from the Tiongsan Group of Companies (Private Partner). This symbolic act demonstrated their collective commitment to supporting the growth and success of MSMEs.
Ms. Felicitas O. Bandonill, OIC-Provincial Director of DTI-Baguio/Benguet, extended a warm welcome to the attendees and expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the participants, sponsors, and organizers for their unwavering support. She highlighted the pivotal role of MSMEs in the development of our communities, as they embody the resilience and tenacity that define the Filipino spirit.
“This year, the National MSME Week Celebration’s theme, “Upgrade, Upskill & Upsize Small Businesses,” focuses in engaging the government and the private sector to exchange knowledge in creating a conducive environment to enjoin MSME and enable them to overcome obstacles and enhance their capabilities”, she said.
Engr. Doy Tabilog representing Honorable Benjamin Magalong, the Mayor of Baguio City, delivered an inspiring message that highlighted the importance of supporting MSMEs in driving local economic growth. RD Juliet Lucas, the Regional Director of DTI-CAR, shared valuable insights on the development and opportunities for MSMEs, emphasizing the need for continuous innovation, upskilling, and upsizing of MSMEs.
The event showcased an impressive array of products that highlighted the ingenuity and craftsmanship of local entrepreneurs. From handmade crafts and artworks to unique food and beverage offerings, the exhibit captured the diverse talent and creativity of MSMEs in Benguet and Baguio City. Moreover, it provided a platform for entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and explore new opportunities for growth. The event emphasized the crucial role of digital innovation in enhancing the capabilities of MSMEs and expanding their reach in today’s dynamic marketplace.
The success of the showcase serves as a testament to the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit within the MSME community. Baguio City and Benguet continues to foster an environment that nurtures and supports the growth of MSMEs, recognizing their significant contribution to the local economy and employment generation.
The National MSME Week 2023 Launching and Trade Fair will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the MSME community. The fair will continue for two Sundays, on July 16th and July 23rd, 2023, at Calderon Street, Baguio City, with a new set of DTI-assisted MSMEs participating. In addition, free business counseling and other services from the Negosyo Center will be provided, further supporting the growth and development of MSMEs.
