In observance of the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Week, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Negros Oriental held a Kapihan Forum on the topic: “Innovate to Elevate MSMEs” at the atrium of Robinsons Place, Dumaguete City.
Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) President and Negros Oriental Micro Small Medium Enterprise Development (MSMED) Council Co-chair Edward Du was one of the speakers during the said forum.
The forum intended to assist the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and its partners such as NOCCI, NORFPA, and MSMED Council in promoting the various interventions given to local MSMEs to help them enhance their respective businesses and entice more small business to avail these programs and services.
In his remarks, President Du expressed his gratitude to DTI and PIA for giving NOCCI the opportunity to present its various programs and activities that aim to assist MSMEs and start-ups in the province of Negros Oriental.
The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Negros Oriental hosted a Kapihan Forum at the atrium of Robinsons Place, Dumaguete City. Themed “Innovate to Elevate MSMEs,” the event gathered key stakeholders to discuss strategies and support mechanisms aimed at boosting the growth and sustainability of local MSMEs.
The forum featured prominent speakers, including Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) President and Co-chair of the Negros Oriental Micro Small Medium Enterprise Development (MSMED) Council, Edward Du. In his address, President Du emphasized the critical role of innovation in driving the success of MSMEs, particularly in a rapidly evolving business environment.
“The challenges faced by MSMEs today are significant, but so are the opportunities,” Du remarked. “Through innovation and strategic partnerships, we can elevate these enterprises to new heights, ensuring their continued growth and contribution to the local economy.”
The Kapihan Forum served as a platform to highlight various interventions provided by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and its partners, including NOCCI, the Negros Oriental Federation of People’s Organizations (NORFPA), and the MSMED Council. These interventions are designed to enhance the competitiveness of local MSMEs by providing access to training, financial resources, and market opportunities.
One of the key discussions centered on the importance of adapting to technological advancements and leveraging digital platforms to reach wider markets. The speakers underscored the necessity for MSMEs to embrace digital transformation, which has become increasingly crucial in the post-pandemic era.
President Du also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the DTI and PIA for their continued collaboration with NOCCI. He highlighted the chamber’s commitment to supporting MSMEs through various programs and initiatives tailored to meet the unique needs of small businesses and startups in the province.
“NOCCI remains steadfast in its mission to empower local businesses,” Du stated. “We are focused on creating an enabling environment where MSMEs can thrive, innovate, and contribute to the overall economic development of Negros Oriental.”
The forum concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to continue working together in fostering an ecosystem that nurtures innovation and growth for MSMEs. The collective efforts of government agencies, business chambers, and community organizations are essential in ensuring that local enterprises are well-equipped to navigate the challenges ahead and seize emerging opportunities.
As the MSME Week celebrations continue, the discussions and insights shared at the Kapihan Forum are expected to inspire further initiatives aimed at strengthening the MSME sector in Negros Oriental. Through ongoing collaboration and innovation, the province’s small businesses are poised to play a pivotal role in driving inclusive economic growth.
