The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 2 Office, in coordination with DTI R2 Batanes, successfully conducted a series of crucial support services aimed at empowering local businesses on 12 July 2024 at the Batanes Livelihood Center. The event featured the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s License to Operate (LTO) certification, Intellectual Property Office (IPO) services, and Financing Window of Small Business Corporation (SB Corp.).

DTI R2 Trade Industry Development Specialist (TIDS) Mr. Marco T. Accad led the session on FDA-LTO certification, providing valuable insights into the licensing and regulatory requirements necessary for food businesses to ensure product safety and compliance. TIDS Accad emphasized that obtaining FDA certification is not only a requirement for exportation but also an opportunity to expand market reach.

Engr. Janica Tacazon, IP Field Specialist from the Intellectual Property Office (IPO), discussed Intellectual Property Rights, Registration, and Services. Engr. Tacazon emphasized that intellectual property protection is vital for fostering innovation and creativity, ensuring that businesses can secure exclusive rights to their inventions, brands, and designs. This protection not only enhances the value of their products and services but also provides a competitive edge in the marketplace.

Additionally, P3 Provincial Coordinator Ms. Syra B. Abbas provided comprehensive information on the financing programs of the Small Business Corporation (SB Corp.), highlighting various financial support options available to small businesses.

After the discussions, Batanes MSMEs received free consultations on Company Logo Development and Application. This effort by DTI aims to enhance not only their brand identity but also the marketability of their products.

This initiative by the DTI Region 2 Office highlights its dedication to creating a strong business environment by providing local entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools for sustainable growth and compliance with national standards. This support elevates #GawangIvatanTatakBatanes products, making them more competitive and capable of competing beyond the province on a broader market scale. The comprehensive assistance aims not only to boost the local economy but also to showcase the unique and high-quality products of Batanes on national and international stages.

The event was attended by 30 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from various sectors such as food, retail, manufacturing, and non-food categories including wearable and homestyle. Representatives from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Agriculture – Batanes Experimentation Station (DA-BES), and Batanes State College (BSC) also attended, showcasing DTI’s active partnerships with other agencies and academic institutions in empowering and enabling the business sector in the province.

Date of release: 12 July 2024

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