Guimaras MSMEs gain skills, grants, market access

The Small Enterprise Growth Agenda, or SEAL-SEGA, program was conducted in Guimaras from March 24 to 27, 2026, at The Pitstop Innova Hotel and Resorts in Jordan.

The initiative was led by the Philippine Trade Training Center–Global MSME Academy and BPI Foundation, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Guimaras and the Department of Trade and Industry, to strengthen local micro, small and medium enterprises.

BPI Foundation describes SEAL-SEGA as a capacity-building program for small and micro startup businesses that combines training, mentoring and cash grants, while PTTC says its Global MSME Academy helps entrepreneurs strengthen competitiveness and reach wider markets.

The four-day program focused on business development, marketing, digital transformation and operational improvement.

Designed for newly registered businesses, the program aimed to improve participants’ market readiness through structured learning, mentoring and potential access to financial support.

A total of 36 MSMEs completed the program.

Another 33 participants joined the business pitch segment, presenting their enterprises to a panel of evaluators.

The top 20 participants received grants to support business expansion and opportunities to access additional financing.

The program also featured a trade fair, where 38 MSMEs showcased local products and services, including food, agricultural goods and tourism-related offerings.

The fair generated total sales of PHP 106,261.

The program ended with a graduation and awarding ceremony, marking a milestone for participating MSMEs as they work toward more sustainable and competitive operations.

The successful rollout of SEAL-SEGA in Guimaras highlighted the value of collaboration among government agencies and private institutions in promoting inclusive growth and supporting local entrepreneurs.

MSMEs remain a key driver of the Philippine economy, and national policy continues to emphasize enterprise development and market access for the sector under the country’s MSME development framework.