A sari-sari store owner from Iloilo participates in DTI’s ‘Tindahan Mo, e-Level Up Mo!’ program while managing her daily operations

WESTERN VISAYAS – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region VI reported an impressive turnout for the nationwide launch of its Sari-Sari Store Advancement Program (SSSAP) on June 26, 2024. The virtual event attracted 340 sari-sari store owners from across the region, far surpassing the initial target of 200 participants. This program, branded as “Tindahan Mo, e-Level Up Mo!”, aims to modernize and uplift sari-sari stores through a series of online training sessions.

DTI VI Regional Director Rachel Nufable expressed her satisfaction with the enthusiastic response from local entrepreneurs. “The strong participation we’ve seen demonstrates the eagerness of our sari-sari store owners to adapt and grow in today’s digital economy,” she stated.

The participation was spread across the region, with Aklan leading at 114 participants, followed by Iloilo with 85, Negros Occidental with 49, Antique with 36, Capiz with 29, and Guimaras with 27.

The first module, “e-Level Up ang Negosyo,” introduced participants to various business opportunities, including cashless payment systems, digital services, and online purchasing. The session also featured the ‘SuperStore’ app, offering promo and loyalty rewards, direct delivery options, and additional capital access for store owners.

DTI also showcased its i-ANGAT ang Negosyo programs and services, which include financial assistance, business mentoring, and market access support.

DTI Undersecretary for Communications Ed Sunico emphasized the importance of the program, stating, “We encourage sari-sari store owners to participate in the ‘Tindahan Mo, e-Level Up Mo!’ program and take advantage of the valuable resources and training opportunities available.”

The significance of this program is highlighted by the fact that sari-sari stores, with over 1.3 million establishments nationwide, serve as pillars of communities, providing daily necessities to a vast majority of the population.

This advancement program aligns with DTI’s recently launched slogan, “ANGAT Negosyo, ASENSO Trabaho, ALAGAng Konsyumer para sa Bagong Pilipinas,” reflecting the department’s commitment to uplifting local businesses, boosting employment, and protecting consumers in the new Philippines.

The SSSAP will continue with monthly virtual sessions until October 2024, covering topics such as online marketing, financial management, product selection, and operational optimization. Sari-sari store owners can access these free training sessions via DTI’s Facebook Page and YouTube or at local Negosyo Centers, making it widely accessible to entrepreneurs across the region.

Photos taken by DTI provincial offices captured participants engaging with the program from their sari-sari stores across the region. Some Negosyo Centers also accommodated group viewings, further facilitating access to the training. ♦

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