The Department of Trade and Industry in the Bicol Region (DTI-5) has assisted over 27,000 micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) from Jan. 1 to Dec. 16 this year.

During a media appreciation event on Monday, DTI-5 Regional Director Dindo Nabol highlighted the assistance provided to help MSMEs grow and improve their businesses.

The support included coaching, training, development of entrepreneurial skills, and facilitation of financing, among other services.

“Under the MSME development program, we maintain 91 Negosyo Centers in the region. This year, we registered 36,002 business names and 4,409 barangay micro business enterprises. By establishing these centers in various localities, we bring DTI services closer to the people we serve,” he said.

Nabol said various activities conducted both locally and internationally generated a total sales figure of PHP390 million.

He also cited the expansion of markets through initiatives like the One Town One Product (OTOP) hub sales, trade fairs, and business missions to Japan, Indonesia, and The Netherlands.

Since its launch in 2013, a total of 228 shared service facility (SSF) projects have been established in the region, with 54 currently maintained, as the others have been transferred to cooperators.

Dindo said DTI-Bicol will continue to ensure that consumers receive the best value for their money by increasing awareness, intensifying monitoring and enforcement, and protecting consumer interests. (PNA)