DTI initiates programs to boost local businesses
KENNETH Cobonpue and HIVE showcase their newest collections in the Manila FAME. FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is making a big push to support local industries and bring them “to the next level” with an array of measures and initiatives.
The DTI will give local enterprises “all the opportunities to be able to become bigger,” said Trade Undersecretary Ponciano C. Manalo Jr. “Once we give them the opportunity, then the choice is for them to take advantage of that.”
One such initiative is the Manila FAME—the country’s premier design and lifestyle event, which features top-quality export products and unique home, holiday and gift designs, apart from fashion, arts and crafts.
“Manila FAME is a showcase for buyers from abroad to buy Philippine-made products. It is a showcase of design from young and established designers like Kenneth Cobonpue and Budji Layug. Together with that, we have our OTOP (One Town, One Product) program where we try to establish industry from each town … to be showcased here [for] our exporters,” Manalo said.
The OTOP Marketplace is a feature of Manila FAME, where products of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are highlighted.
Another program is the Red Box, a design development program featuring a fresh batch of Filipino designers, who are matched with local manufacturers to create innovative products.
Aside from the OTOP Marketplace and Red Box, Manila FAME features the Weaves of the Philippines and Craft Spots, The Boutique, Design Philippines Scenography, Manila Wear, Design for Exports, The Katha Awards, Design Week Philippines, Design Tours, and the Design Talks.
“We try to help [local enterprises by providing] affordable loans through microfinancing companies so they can start their business,” Manalo said. “We also have Diskwento Depots, where people can buy products from manufacturers to start their business.”
Manalo also cited the Shared Services Facility (SSF), where a community can avail of vital equipment with which to start a business on a major scale.
