DOST supports Bakal Lokal platform for micro entreps, farmers

Consumers have gone online, speeding up an existing trend for more shopping activity than usual.  The pandemic crisis has pushed the expansion of e-commerce towards new firms, customers, and even local products.  The Department of Science and Technology Region VI (DOST VI) is aggressive in its efforts to strengthen our micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) during the CoViD-19 crisis.

The Youth First Initiatives Philippines, Inc. (YFI PH Inc.) sought support from DOST VI for the development of the Bakal Lokal project, an eCommerce platform that features locally-made, sustainable, ethically-sourced, and eco-friendly products and packaging from local producers.  The project was officially launched last December 2 during the S&T Week celebration.  The 2020 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) celebration in Region VI was held virtually and the launching of the project was aired via live stream at the Bakal Lokal:  Produkto Lokal Goes Digital market fair at the Festive Mall Garden Atrium.  Buyers and sellers experienced a convenient way of buying and selling goods using the Bakal Lokal platform.  It will complement the existing OneSTore.ph project of DOST, an eCommerce web application that operates nationwide and caters primarily to Philippine consumers.  OneStore helps the DOST-assisted MSMEs widen the scope of their target market.  The Bakal Lokal platform will also support local MSMEs in Western Visayas to reach more consumers and make primary and essential goods more accessible.  It is equipped with SMS technology integration, accessible online payment systems, modern digital marketing strategies, and delivery services which will also be tapped from local service providers for a more convenient way of selling and buying.

The objective to bridge consumers to farmers, micro and small entrepreneurs, and match local producers to MSMEs in Western Visayas makes the project more beneficial to its merchants.  The project also seeks to establish a partnership with the Department of Agriculture Region VI (DA VI) to help farmers promote their fresh produce and likewise support start-up fishermen, farmers, and micro business entrepreneurs. “The COVID-19 pandemic will not stop us from growing and developing, rather it will challenge us to continue innovating and adapting so that we can progress as a nation”, shares DOST VI Regional Director Rowen R. Gelonga in his message during the project launching.

The platform provides a wide array of selections from locally sourced fresh produce, foods, and beverages, bath and beauty products, personalized accessories, home essentials, among others.  Visit www.bakal-lokal.com for more information. (DOST VI-KMU)