Over 1,100 sari-preneurs in Central Visayas join the third session of DTI’s advancement program | Department of Trade and Industry Philippines

CENTRAL VISAYAS – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) continues to strengthen its efforts in empowering micro-entrepreneurs across the country through the Sari-Sari Store Advancement Program (SSSAP). The program’s third module, “e-Level Up ang Puhunan,” held on August 28, 2024, saw a notable increase in participation in Central Visayas, with 1,149 sari-preneurs joining the session, reflecting a significant rise from the 940 participants in the second module.

Participants from across the four provinces included 358 sari-preneurs in Bohol, 438 in Cebu, 310 in Negros Oriental, and 43 in Siquijor. This increase highlights the growing interest and recognition of the program’s benefits as more store owners seek to enhance their business acumen and access to financing.

To ensure accessibility, the training was conducted in various learning centers across the region. In Bohol, the program was held in 13 different locations, including local government units, while Cebu utilized 12 learning centers including its provincial office. Similarly, Negros Oriental hosted sessions in 12 locations including Negosyo Centers, and in Siquijor, the training was carried out in 3 venues, including a DICT site.

The program saw collaboration with industry leaders and financial institutions to offer participants hands-on learning and practical business solutions. DTI’s Small Business Corporation (SBCorp) played a central role by introducing participants to micro-financing programs tailored to meet the needs of sari-sari store owners. SBCorp’s initiatives provide easy access to finance, enabling micro-entrepreneurs to grow their businesses through flexible loans and affordable financing options.

Other key speakers included representatives from Uno Digital Bank, GCash, Smart, and Maya, who discussed the benefits of digital payments and cashless transactions.

Nationwide partner merchants, including Smart and Nestle, were also present at learning centers, offering discounted selling opportunities for store owners. These partnerships facilitated total sales of ₱180,202.82 across the four provinces during the session.

The Sari-Sari Store Advancement Program is part of DTI’s broader efforts to provide micro-entrepreneurs with the skills and resources to thrive in today’s competitive market. The program’s previous modules included “e-Level Up ang Negosyo” in June with about 800 participants in the region, and “e-Level Up ang Online Marketing” in July.

Participants look forward to the upcoming sessions, “e-Level Up ang Paninda” on September 25 and “e-Level Up ang Operations” on October 23. (DTI 7/PR) ♦

Date of release: 05 September 2024

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