Landmark MOU to elevate sari-sari stores nationwide

By Francis Allan L. Angelo

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to launch the Sari-sari Store Advancement Program, targeting the empowerment of over one million sari-sari store owners across the Philippines.

The initiative, “Tindahan Mo e-Level Up Mo!”, aims to equip micro-retailers with digital tools, knowledge, and sustainable practices, marking a significant step toward inclusive economic growth.

“Sari-sari stores are a backbone of the Philippine economy, serving as economic hubs that power Filipino households. This program aims to empower over one million sari-sari store owners by equipping them with digital tools, knowledge, and sustainable practices,” DTI Secretary Fred Pascual said in a statement.

The program focuses on key areas such as digital transformation, financial literacy, sustainability, and consumer protection. It aims to provide access to advanced technologies, enhance financial literacy, promote eco-friendly operations, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

Pascual emphasized the importance of integrating digital technologies to reduce costs, increase productivity, and expand market reach, ensuring these micro-enterprises remain competitive in the digital economy.

“Our goal is to see sari-sari stores not just survive but thrive. By registering and formalizing these businesses, we provide them with the necessary support and benefits to elevate their operations,” he added.

DTI Undersecretary Ed Sunico, leading the initiative, highlighted the collaborative effort to support these small enterprises.

“Bawat isang tindahan ay may isang kabuhayang Pilipino. In that spirit, sama-sama na nating i-level up ang bawat tindahang Pilipino (In every sari-sari store, there is a Filipino livelihood. In that spirit, let us all elevate every Filipino sari-sari store),” Sunico said.

Private sector signatories, including Unilever, Coca-Cola, Universal Robina Corporation, Smart Communications, Nestlé, Hapinoy, Packworks, PASCO, and GCash, expressed their support for the program, underscoring the shared success between these stores and their companies.

Secretary Pascual concluded with a call to action, “Together, we can elevate every Filipino store. Sama-sama nating e-Level Up ang bawat tindahang Pilipino. ANGAT Negosyo para sa Bagong Pilipinas!”