CATARMAN, Northern Samar (PIA) — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Northern Samar prioritizes the resilience of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in its development efforts as it prepares for the ‘2nd Manggad San Northern Samar’ Pre-Christmas Trade Fair at Gaisano Grand Mall, Catarman, from November 14 to 17.
DTI Provincial Head Mimosa Regis highlighted these initiatives on PIA’s ‘Huruhimangraw sa Panginudto’ radio program on November 12, noting that local entrepreneurs received targeted support to build resilience.
“These exhibitors have been trained in basic entrepreneurship through DTI’s Negosyo Centers in their respective municipalities,” she said.
Regis stated that the agency trained MSMEs in packaging and product development to improve marketability and meet consumer demands. She added that DTI helped exhibitors prepare business continuity plans to sustain operations during unexpected events, especially in a typhoon-prone province.
To support production efficiency, DTI provided MSMEs with access to Shared Service Facilities that offered modern machinery and tools for food processing, furniture making, and bamboo crafts at no extra cost. Regis stated that this shared access lowered investment costs and enhanced product quality.
Fifty exhibitors from 15 municipalities, including Lavezares, Allen, Laoang, Palapag, Victoria, Las Navas, Lope de Vega, Gamay, Catarman, Mapanas, Bobon, Mondragon, Biri, and San Roque, will participate in the fair. The DTI coordinated with the provincial government and local units to transport products free of charge.
The four-day event features local bamboo crafts, abaca products, crocheted fabrics, wood carvings, and a variety of foods, including pili items, tablea, native delicacies, pastries, banana chips, seaweed, and coconut products.
Regis stated that the DTI is also working to revive the abaca industry in the province, aiming to expand opportunities for MSME innovation and promote long-term growth.
(TBC, PIA Northern Samar)
