The Provincial Government of South Cotabato, through its South Cotabato Economic and Investment Promotion Center (SCEIPC), conducted the South Cotabato MSME Expo on July 12-13, 2024, at the EMR Convention Center in Koronadal City.
The event, themed “Weaving Opportunities to the World,” aimed to support the growth, resilience, and sustainability of MSMEs by providing market access, networking opportunities, capacity building, innovation support, policy advocacy, and socio-economic development.
The expo showcased entrepreneurs and products from members of the South Cotabato Food Industry Association and the Association of South Cotabato Crafters.
The expo was anchored on Executive Order No. 8, Series of 2024, also known as the “Buy Lokal, Go Lokal Program of South Cotabato.” This initiative is designed to boost the network and linkages of local Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), promoting local products and encouraging the community to support homegrown businesses. The program aims to strengthen the local economy by fostering a supportive environment for MSMEs to thrive.
Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. graced the event to show his support for the local entrepreneurs of the province. In his speech, he emphasized that “strengthening their MSMEs will strengthen our economy here in South Cotabato.” He also stated they are “doing this not for competition but to foster partnership, especially with their private sectors.”
“This initiative of gathering stakeholders both from the public and private boils down to the goal of achieving something through unity. We put value on our private sectors as vital partners of progress and development,” said Governor Tamayo.
“This expo serves as a vital platform to support and connect our MSMEs with a wealth of opportunities from a diverse group of suppliers, investors, government entities, and financial institutions. It creates a support network for our MSMEs," said SCEIPC head and MSME Expo Chair Tyron Jann B. Villanueva.
"This initiative is a direct response to the vision and direction set by Hon. Gov. Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr., who is steadfast in his commitment to strengthening MSME support in our province," he added.
The event was one of the highlights of the province's 25th Tnalak Festival and 58th Founding Anniversary. It also aligned with the nationwide celebration of MSME Month, emphasizing their commitment to the growth and success of local MSMEs.
Villanueva expressed gratitude for the presence, support, collective planning, and unwavering dedication of local leaders, regional line agencies, private sector partners, and businessmen.
Participating line agencies included the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDa), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). South Cotabato Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc., and provincial officials were also present at the event.
Under Section 16 of Republic Act No. 9501, also known as the Magna Carta for MSMEs, the second week of July each year is designated as MSME Development Week (MSMED Week). The primary purpose of this week is to raise awareness about the crucial role of MSMEs in nation-building.
DTI recently announced the creation of a new development plan for Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This marks the fourth such plan since 2004.
According to DTI Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual, the MSME Development Plan 2023-2028 will emphasize essential tools for navigating the fourth industrial revolution, including artificial intelligence (AI) and technological innovation. The plan outlines strategies through which the government can support MSMEs in adapting to the digital age.
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