DTI Guimaras Launches ‘Go Digital’ to Empower MSMEs

In celebration of MSME Month and as part of its commitment to empower local entrepreneurs, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Negosyo Center Provincial Office, officially launched the first run of “Go Digital: Boosting MSME Growth” on July 9, 2025.

The initiative aims to equip micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Guimaras with essential digital skills to improve their online presence, promote products, and increase sales through digital platforms.

In her opening remarks, Officer-in-Charge Juvy D. Benliro emphasized the importance of being digitally mindful, especially in reaching a wider market, increasing revenue, and managing marketing operations more effectively.

The activity gathered 15 MSME participants from across the province who engaged in hands-on sessions covering topics such as creating and managing a Facebook Business Page, using Canva for graphic design, registering and using GCash for digital payments, and learning livestreaming techniques to promote products online.

The training was facilitated by Ruth Penuela, Trade and Industry Development Analyst, along with Negosyo Center Business Counselors.

Rejoice Orquia, Trade and Industry Development Specialist, also delivered a comprehensive and interactive discussion on the importance of digitalization for MSME development.

By the end of the session, 13 participants successfully created product designs using Canva, while six were assisted in setting up their business Facebook pages.

Participants with existing pages were guided on how to update and improve content to better attract their target audience.

To ensure application of the lessons, participants were required to submit outputs such as screenshots of e-wallet registrations, social media pages, and other digital tools created during the training.

A follow-up monitoring activity will be conducted six months after the training to assess progress and provide continued support.

Closing the session, Senior Trade and Industry Specialist Nesgen Rhea C. Zerrudo shared an inspiring acronym, BOOST: Believe in yourself and your business, Organize, be Open-minded, Seize opportunities, and Trust in God above all.

The training reflects DTI and the Negosyo Center’s dedication to strengthening MSMEs through digital empowerment and innovation.

The second run of the “Go Digital” training is set for July 11, 2025, at the Negosyo Center in Nueva Valencia.

DTI encourages interested MSMEs to participate and take the next step toward digital transformation.