Western Visayas MSMEs shine in Presidential Awards

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By Mariela Angella Oladive

Three organizations from Western Visayas were honored at the 2024 Presidential Awards for Outstanding Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Presidential Recognition for Outstanding Development Partners held at Malacañang Palace on July 10, 2024.

Capiz State University Intellectual Property Management Office, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Iloilo Chapter Inc. (PCCI Iloilo), and Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation, Inc. Negros Occidental received recognition for their exceptional contributions to enhancing the business climate and supporting MSME growth in their respective areas of expertise.

The Capiz State University Intellectual Property Management Office was lauded in the Improving Access to Technology and Innovation Category for implementing the Capsule Technology Business Incubator. PCCI Iloilo was honored in the Improving Access to Markets Category for their Iloilo Business Expo (ILOBEX) initiative, and the Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation was awarded in the Improving Access to Finance Category for their Project Dungganon.

DTI Region VI Regional Director Rachel Nufable expressed her pride in the region’s achievements, stating, “We are immensely grateful for having development partners that help boost economic growth in terms of technology and innovation, market access, and finance. Our DTI family truly appreciates and applauds their efforts and contributions in the region.”

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the ceremony, which was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the MSME Development Council. The awards celebrate exceptional MSMEs for their excellence, innovation, and sustainability, as well as their vital role in the Philippine economy.

PCCI Iloilo’s ILOBEX, now the largest business exhibition in Western Visayas, has provided a vital platform for local MSMEs to showcase their products and recover from the economic downturn caused by the pandemic. Since its inception in 2022, ILOBEX has continued to assist MSMEs by conducting training and workshops focused on sustainable business practices, marketing strategies, and product innovation.

The recognition was received by PCCI Iloilo President Engr. Fulbert Woo and Vice President Jerduen Dongor, accompanied by DTI Region VI Regional Director Rachel Nufable and DTI Iloilo Provincial Director Ma. Dinda Tamayo. (With a report from DTI-6 regional office)