For the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Batangas Provincial Office, the One Town, One Product program is one of the effective catalysts of the MSMEs’ growth. Notwithstanding its virtual set-up for two consecutive years, the OTOPreneurs, as they would call the graduates of this program, still had received quality assistance from the agency, the trainers, and the partner designing team, Artministree. In return, the OTOPreneurs contributed beyond what is expected of them. The online trainings incorporated in this program, such as the current good manufacturing practices, digital marketing, and brand building, among others, are operative in reaching the objectives of this program which is to holistically develop the entrepreneurs’ products and bring them to bigger and wider markets.
Product development may be considered as one of the great pillars in a business venture. As the saying goes, we cannot give what we do not have. Similarly, we also cannot sell what we do not have. If a business, for example, does not have a product that is safe, quality, appealing, enticing, or meeting the demands of the market, it may not reach its full potential of being a successful business. Fortunately, this flagship program, of DTI addressed these gaps and succumbs to the needs of businesses when it comes to the development and innovation of their product and brand.
As a culminating activity for OTOPreneurs, DTI Batangas held its first-ever KALAKAL Batangas Provincial Trade Fair last 15 – 21 November 2021, highlighting the past and present businesses who have undergone the OTOP program. Eleven (11) enterprises were tapped to exhibit and sell their products during the trade fair. There also was a special exhibit for the OTOPreneurs who graduated in the year 2021. The office felt a great blend of pride, joy and excitement while they showcase the top-of-the-line products that were developed through the years.
Indeed, world-class products, like those developed under the OTOP program, deserve to be in the big markets. DTI Batangas cannot wait to witness the triumph of these businesses, as they already possess the ticket not only in domestic, but also in international markets. ♦
Date of Release: 10 December 2021