DTI launches 37th Negosyo Center in Cebu | Department of Trade and Industry Philippines

CEBU – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Cebu Provincial Office, in collaboration with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Carmen, officially launched a new Negosyo Center at the Municipal Hall on October 28, 2024. This marks the 37th Negosyo Center in Cebu Province, furthering DTI’s mission to make business support services accessible throughout the province, especially in economically dynamic areas like Carmen.

Established under Republic Act No. 10644, or the “Go Negosyo Act,” Negosyo Centers aim to foster a supportive environment for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), enabling them to thrive and contribute to local economic growth. These centers offer essential services such as Business Registration Assistance, Business Advisory Services, Market Linkage Support, Financing Facilitation, and Business Development Training—all vital for MSMEs to succeed and expand.

During the launch, Carmen Mayor Carlo Mariano T. Villamor (in white, photo above) highlighted the town’s economic progress, noting Carmen’s nearly 2,000 registered establishments with active business permits and its expected elevation to a first-class municipality under Republic Act No. 11964, the “Automatic Income Classification of Local Government Units Act.” Mayor Villamor expressed optimism about the new Negosyo Center, which will make it easier for local businesses to start, grow, and sustain operations, bolstering the town’s ongoing economic momentum.

DTI-Cebu Provincial Director Rose Mae Quiñanola (right, photo above) expressed her gratitude for the LGU’s strong support in establishing the Negosyo Center in Carmen. She emphasized that the center reflects the LGU’s commitment to working alongside DTI to deliver impactful programs and services that uplift MSMEs. “This Negosyo Center will be a valuable resource, enhancing MSME growth by providing business registration assistance, business counseling, improving product packaging and labeling, facilitating export linkages, and offering financial literacy training and seminars,” she stated. Director Quiñanola also noted that by establishing the center in Carmen, DTI is bringing its services closer to the people, making it easier for entrepreneurs to access support right within their community

The launch event featured the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between DTI and the LGU of Carmen, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony that officially opened the center to the public. The new Negosyo Center is set to support Carmen’s diverse industries, including agri-based businesses, food processing, handicrafts, and tourism-related enterprises.

The opening of the Negosyo Center coincides with Carmen’s recent achievement of the prestigious Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG). Mayor Carlo Mariano T. Villamor proudly shared this recognition during the event, noting that the SGLG is a testament to Carmen’s commitment to excellence in governance. The SGLG is an annual assessment program by the Philippine government that evaluates LGUs in areas such as financial sustainability, disaster preparedness, peace and order, social services, environmental management, and business-friendliness.

Carmen’s economy is well-positioned to benefit from both local enterprise and tourism, with the recent development of a Tourist Rest Area (TRA) underscoring this dual focus. The TRA, inaugurated by the Department of Tourism (DOT) in collaboration with the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), the LGU, and Cebu Safari and Adventure Park, serves as a model for public-private partnerships in tourism. This facility is expected to enhance the experience of over 14,000 monthly visitors to Carmen, showcasing local attractions and products while providing essential amenities.

The Negosyo Center’s establishment will complement these efforts by providing resources to local entrepreneurs in tourism, hospitality, and artisanal industries, further supporting Carmen’s vision as a growing destination for both economic and tourism activities.

The next Negosyo Center is set to open soon in the Municipality of Catmon, completing DTI’s network of business support services across northern Cebu. This new center will further strengthen assistance for MSMEs in the region, empowering local entrepreneurs and enhancing the vibrant business landscape throughout northern Cebu. (DTI Cebu/PR) ♦

Date of release: 05 November 2024

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