Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) officers led by its Co-Chair President Mr. Edward Du, presided over the Provincial Micro Small Medium Enterprises Development Council (PMSMEDC) 4th quarter meeting.
During the meeting, the PMSMEDC, in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Negros Oriental, presented an award of commendation and recognition to Kawayan Collective Agricultural Cooperative for winning the Presidential MSME Award (Small Category).
NOCCI Leads PMSMEDC Meeting, Honors Kawayan Collective for MSME Excellence
The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), spearheaded by its Co-Chair President Edward Du, presided over the 4th Quarter Provincial Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development Council (PMSMEDC) meeting. Held in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Negros Oriental, the event was a platform for assessing MSME development initiatives and celebrating local business achievements.
A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation of a commendation and recognition award to the Kawayan Collective Agricultural Cooperative. The cooperative was honored for winning the prestigious Presidential MSME Award in the Small Category, a testament to its innovative practices and contributions to local economic development.
Recognizing Excellence in MSMEs
The Kawayan Collective Agricultural Cooperative’s accolade underscores its commitment to sustainable growth and community impact. The cooperative specializes in bamboo processing and manufacturing, focusing on providing eco-friendly alternatives for construction and interior design.
DTI Negros Oriental lauded Kawayan Collective for its achievements and role as a model for other MSMEs in the region. “This recognition not only highlights the excellence of Kawayan Collective but also the immense potential of Negros Oriental MSMEs in driving innovation and sustainability,” said DTI Negros Oriental Provincial Director Nimfa Virtucio.
During the award presentation, NOCCI President Edward Du commended the cooperative for its exemplary efforts in creating a sustainable and inclusive business model. “Kawayan Collective’s success is a source of pride for Negros Oriental and a beacon of what our MSMEs can achieve with determination, creativity, and collaboration,” he said.
Focus on MSME Growth and Sustainability
The PMSMEDC meeting served as an avenue to discuss ongoing projects and future initiatives aimed at fostering MSME growth in the province. Topics included:
- Access to Capital: Expanding financial programs for MSMEs to scale their operations.
- Skills Development: Rolling out training programs to enhance technical and entrepreneurial capabilities.
- Market Linkages: Strengthening connections between local businesses and regional or global markets.
DTI and NOCCI emphasized the importance of nurturing MSMEs as catalysts for economic development, especially in the face of global challenges.
Kawayan Collective: A Role Model for Sustainable Business
Kawayan Collective exemplifies how sustainable practices can align with profitability. Its initiatives include:
- Sourcing raw bamboo locally, providing income opportunities for farmers.
- Producing high-quality, sustainable bamboo materials for various applications.
- Advocating for bamboo’s role in combating deforestation and promoting renewable resources.
The cooperative’s success reflects the province’s rich natural resources and its potential to lead the way in sustainable industries.
Collaboration Between NOCCI, PMSMEDC, and DTI
The PMSMEDC meeting also showcased the strong partnership between NOCCI, DTI, and other stakeholders in advancing MSME development. With NOCCI’s leadership, the council has consistently pushed for innovative solutions to challenges faced by small businesses in Negros Oriental.
“NOCCI’s active participation in the PMSMEDC ensures that the private sector’s voice is heard in shaping policies and programs for MSMEs,” said PMSMEDC Chair Edward Du.
Future Plans and Opportunities
Looking ahead, the council outlined several strategic priorities, including:
- Establishing incubation hubs to support startup entrepreneurs.
- Promoting Negros Oriental products through trade fairs and expos.
- Expanding the digital transformation program for MSMEs to improve competitiveness.
The council also identified bamboo as a priority commodity, given its environmental benefits and growing market demand. This aligns with initiatives like the Kawayan Collective, which advocates for bamboo’s role in sustainable construction and design.
Community and Business Engagement
NOCCI and DTI emphasized the importance of community involvement in fostering a supportive ecosystem for MSMEs. “Our success lies in collaboration—between businesses, government agencies, and communities,” Du noted.
The meeting closed with a call for unity and action, encouraging stakeholders to continue supporting programs that empower small businesses and contribute to the province’s economic growth.
A Bright Future for Negros Oriental MSMEs
The 4th Quarter PMSMEDC meeting highlighted the progress made in nurturing the MSME sector in Negros Oriental. From recognizing the achievements of Kawayan Collective to charting new pathways for growth, the council remains steadfast in its mission to empower local businesses and build a resilient economy.
With NOCCI, DTI, and other key players working together, the future looks promising for the MSME community in Negros Oriental. As success stories like Kawayan Collective inspire others, the province is poised to become a hub for innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth.
