Butuan City, Philippines – In honor of the vital role of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as the backbone of our regional economy, the Department of Trade and Industry Caraga celebrates the MSME Development Week 2024 from July 22-26, 2024.
The week-long celebration kicked off yesterday, July 22, with a motorcade, an opening salvo and the ribbon cutting ceremony of the Tienda Caraga mini trade fair which is participated by 19 MSMES at SM City Butuan.
In her opening message, DTI Caraga RD Gay Tidalgo shared that MSMEs account for 95% of all business establishments, thereby powering the economy of the Philippines. “If you don’t innovate, you will die” – a reminder that continuous innovation is essential for business survival. MSMEs not only provide investments, jobs, and employment but also offer products that reflect our pride in local craftsmanship. Therefore, RD Tidalgo also emphasized that it is crucial for consumers to develop a love for our own and patronize our producers to support their growth and sustainability.
Ms. Elrikki Mira S. Nautan, Leasing Manager of SM City Butuan also delivered a message of support on behalf of SM as the private sector partner for this event. She shares that through the SM4MSMEs program, they are able to provide a platform for over one million MSMEs, providing them with spaces to showcase their innovative products and entrepreneurial talents. In SM City Butuan alone, they have drafted approximately 120 contracts in addition to the bazaars being hosted since its opening in November 2020.
The keynote speech, delivered by Butuan City Chamber of Commerce Foundation Inc. (BCCCFI) President, Cristina Hemady R. Arcillas, emphasized the benefits of never being afraid to try something new. In her love to explore technological advancements, she imparts that it is important to use innovations to our advantage to make work more efficient. “The best way to innovate is to use it yourself,” and when it works for you, it will allow you to grow your business.
This year’s theme, “Innovate to Elevate: Empowering MSMEs for Sustainable Growth” emphasizes the importance of continuous innovation and improvement for MSMEs growth and sustainability.
The opening salvo tallied 130 participants in attendance, including 15 food and 4 non-food producers exhibiting in the trade fair.
#CaragaMSMEWeek2024
#MSMEWeek2024
#InnovateToElevate ♦
Date of release: 24 July 2024
