DTI Iloilo, Design Center Boost MSME Product Design

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Eleven micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Iloilo participated in a product development initiative led by the Department of Trade and Industry Iloilo, in partnership with the Design Center of the Philippines.

The program aimed to improve the design, quality and market potential of local products through expert design support and innovation.

A design team from the Design Center – composed of Lorenz Jose Patalinghuh, Benjamin Sixto Molina Jr., Lea Mae Faderon and Ceiren Malolos – conducted hands-on consultations, market trend analyses and product refinement sessions with the participating MSMEs.

The participating enterprises were Rattanology of Dueñas; Pro Wood of Leganes; Lampirong Collection of Villa, Iloilo City; Lenskie Bamboo Products Manufacturing of Tigbauan; KAPAWA of Maasin; Segundo’s Bamboo Products of Guimbal; Efren’s Bamboo Products of Janiuay; Alimodian Bamboo Producers Association; Baje Handicrafts of Leon; Wooden Living Furniture and Crafts of Mandurriao, Iloilo City; and Tuburan Farmers & Weavers ARC of Janiuay.

Featured products included wooden furniture, home décor, bamboo accessories, woven ceiling and wall panels, lampshades, pandan bags and other eco-friendly items made from locally sourced materials.

These innovations reflect Iloilo’s rich artisanal heritage while promoting sustainability.

DTI Iloilo emphasized the role of design in helping MSMEs compete in both local and global markets.

The agency also noted the program’s impact on fostering innovation, building skills and generating jobs within the local economy.

As a next step, the design team will deliver customized product concepts based on each MSME’s production capacity and creative vision.

These designs will be turned into prototypes and exhibited at the upcoming Artesanias de Iloilo and Panublion Trade Fairs.

The showcases aim to elevate Iloilo’s creative industries and position its artisans in the design-led market.