DTI Strengthens MSME Support at SSF Summit

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reaffirmed its commitment to business development during the Shared Service Facility (SSF) Summit held on December 12, 2024.

The summit aimed to enhance access to technology and resources for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through the flagship SSF program.

The SSF program provides machinery, tools, skills, and knowledge to MSMEs via shared systems.

It partners with “co-operators,” including associations, cooperatives, universities, non-government organizations, and local government units, which house and maintain the equipment while making it accessible to enterprises.

During the summit, the DTI introduced updated implementation guidelines, with DTI Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development Coordinator for Region 8, Numen Lansangan, outlining key changes.

Among these was the requirement for co-operators to achieve a 10% increase in sales or beneficiaries within two years to transfer equipment ownership under the usufruct agreement.

With 156 SSF projects established in the region, the DTI emphasized ensuring operational efficiency.

Provincial reports identified common challenges and outlined steps to address them, including improving documentation, monitoring sales growth, maintaining equipment functionality, and offering capacity-building interventions tailored to co-operators’ needs.

The summit also addressed concerns regarding expired usufruct agreements. These agreements may necessitate transferring equipment to other qualified co-operators or allowing reapplication by the original co-operators.

DTI Regional and Provincial Offices committed to conducting an inventory of agreements and facilitating the reapplication or transfer process by January 2025.

To further strengthen SSF services, the DTI plans to link co-operators with market suppliers and buyers.

The network aims to improve access to raw materials, semi-processed goods, and final products. It will also connect co-operators with technical experts, promote knowledge sharing, and highlight best practices.

The event allowed SSF co-operators to organize under specific sectors, including coconut, processed food, and non-food industries, to discuss strategic next steps.

Successful co-operators shared inspiring stories of growth, including Tito Cabintoy of the Brgy. Cabacungan Multipurpose Cooperative, Merlina Lumakin of Sto. Niño de Plaridel MPC, and Rammel Sacobos of Baybay Dairy Cooperative.

They attributed their success to strong organizational structures, committed members, meticulous record-keeping, regular equipment maintenance, and facility investments.

The summit drew 182 participants, including co-op members, DTI officials, local government representatives, and other stakeholders.

It underscored the vital role of co-operators in managing and maximizing the benefits of SSFs, reaffirming DTI’s commitment to empowering MSMEs for sustainable growth.