Recent Posts
[su_tabs class=”row regional-lp pad25tb”]
[su_tab title=”News” disabled=”no” anchor=”” url=”” target=”blank” class=””]
Over 150 beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) in Sitio Marabon, Balabac, Palawan, took part in an entrepreneurial capability-building training organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)–MIMAROPA in partnership with DSWD on August 13–14, 2025.
The two-day training featured in-depth sessions on Business Continuity and Resilience Planning, Advanced Financial Management, and Consumer Education, equipping participants with essential skills to strengthen and sustain their small enterprises.
Most of the beneficiaries are engaged in seaweed farming and trading in Balabac. The program aims to enhance their business practices, generate more livelihood opportunities, and celebrate the rich culture and traditions of indigenous peoples and local community entrepreneurs.
Participants noted that the training provided insights on managing capital and preparing for potential disruptions to their businesses. Through its partnership with DSWD’s SLP, DTI-MIMAROPA continues to extend entrepreneurial support to communities in far-flung and underserved areas, ensuring that inclusive growth reaches even the most remote parts of the region. ♦
Date of Release: 19 August 2025
Read more
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recognized the success of top Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and development partners at the 2025 Presidential Awards for Outstanding MSMEs and Presidential Recognition for Outstanding Development Partners, held at Heroes Hall, Malacañang Palace.
Led by Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin on behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and joined by DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque, the awards recognized leading enterprises for fostering innovation and building a more resilient and globally competitive MSME sector.
Secretary Roque emphasized the significance of the awards as a celebration of Filipino entrepreneurship, affirming that the DTI will continue to aggressively push for digital transformation to help MSMEs compete in a borderless market.
“Under the vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for a Bagong Pilipinas, the DTI will continue to stand with all of you. Each enterprise, regardless of size, contributes to our shared goal of building a safe and sustainable future for Filipinos,” Secretary Roque said.
The event, which is held annually, serves as the highest recognition for Filipino MSMEs and development partners, honoring those who have demonstrated excellence and made a significant impact on the nation's economy.
A committee on awards was established to select this year's outstanding MSMEs, resulting in nine finalists from three enterprises per category.
After a rigorous selection process, the following were named this year's Outstanding MSMEs: Heaven’s Bakehaus and Enterprises from Region 10 for the Micro Enterprise Category, Pasciolco Agri Ventures from Region 4A for the Small Enterprise Category, and Nutridense Food Manufacturing Corp. From Region 1 for the Medium Enterprise Category.
Beyond individual enterprises, the awarding also highlighted the outstanding development partners, whose innovative programs and sustained support are accelerating the country's business ecosystem.
Five institutions were recognized as this year’s outstanding development partners, including the Local Government of Iriga City for Project R.E.X. (Reform for Ease and Excellence), the University of the Philippines-Institute for Small-Scale Industries for Entrelead: Entrepreneurial Learning and Advisory Development Hub, Cagayan State University - Electromobility Research and Development Center (CSU-EMRDC) for the Electromobility Research and Development Center (eMRDC) Program, the Provincial Government of Tarlac-Provincial Cooperative and Enterprise Development Office (PGT-PCEDO) for the International Trade and Investment Mission Assistance Program, and the Davao City Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc. for the Davao City Chamber of Commerce events.
Special citations were also given to celebrate enterprises whose exemplary practices showcase excellence in distinct areas of enterprise development; digitalization and innovation, sustainability and resilience, community impact and inclusivity, export excellence, green economy practices, and customer experience excellence.
The 2025 Presidential Awards is a testament to the vital role of MSMEs and development partners in building a stronger and more inclusive Philippine economy. ♦
Date of Release: 19 August 2025
Read more
New Delhi, India—President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has secured a firm commitment from Indian infrastructure giant GMR Group to proceed with the development of the Sangley Aerocity and the Sangley Point International Airport (SPIA), and to explore significant upgrades for key regional airports across the Philippines. This development signals a strong partnership aimed at decongesting the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and bolstering regional connectivity.
President Marcos Jr. recently met with GMR Group Business Chairman (Energy and International Airports) Mr. Srinivas Bommidala and his local partners, Cavitex Holdings Inc. and House of Investments, to discuss the SPIA project. The President underscored the project’s strategic importance, noting its potential to create up to 15,000 jobs and generate an estimated $500 million in government revenue.
The President assured the consortium that the national government is actively working with the Cavite provincial government to expedite land-related approvals, ensuring the project stays on track.
Aside from this, GMR also expressed its keen interest in operating and upgrading regional airports, including those in Laoag, Siargao, and Bohol. The President warmly received this proposal, noting its potential to support regional economic growth and tourism in developing regions, aligned with the government's "Build Better More" program.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque expressed confidence in GMR Group's proven track record and affirmed the Philippines’ commitment to improving its connectivity.
“GMR has been a trusted partner of the Philippines since 2014 and is widely recognized for its successful delivery of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport and new passenger terminal at Clark despite the pandemic. The Philippines is fully committed to improving its connectivity within its 7,600 islands and the whole world, and I believe the GMR Group shares the same commitment with us in their latest project,” Secretary Roque said.
GMR Group restated its long-term dedication to the Philippines, citing the country’s strategic location, robust economic growth prospects, and the government’s strong backing for infrastructure development.
The meeting with GMR Group advances the Marcos Jr. administration’s strategy to secure transformative investments in transportation, logistics, and digital infrastructure, a goal the DTI is supporting by actively pursuing partnerships with foreign companies to expand their operations in the Philippines. ♦
Date of Release: 14 August 2025
Read moreThe Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) lauded the expansion plans of NephroPlus, Asia’s largest dialysis network, which is set to significantly widen renal care access across the Philippines and generate around 1,000 new jobs in the next three years. The announcement came on the heels of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s official visit to India from August 6 to 8, 2025.
NephroPlus, which currently operates 39 dialysis centers nationwide, announced plans to scale up to 150 clinics by 2028, focusing on underserved provinces and areas with high prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The company’s expansion includes building new centers, localizing the manufacturing of dialysis-related supplies, and establishing a training academy for Filipino hemodialysis nurses.
The Department of Trade and Industry Secretary and Board of Investments (BOI) Chair Cristina Roque welcomed the development, noting the critical role of health investments in both the economy and public welfare.
“NephroPlus’ expansion brings more than new clinics—it delivers hope to thousands of Filipinos who rely on regular dialysis. By investing in technology, training, and local manufacturing, they are not only creating jobs but also building a stronger foundation for our healthcare economy,” Secretary Roque said.
The Indian healthcare firm entered the Philippine market in 2020 and has since invested around USD 30 million, employing over 600 Filipinos and serving nearly 2,500 patients monthly. It has forged partnerships with local governments in Cavite, Aklan, and Cebu to expand dialysis access through public-private partnerships (PPPs). The company plans to earmark around USD 50 million for the expansion.
Among its upcoming projects is a greenfield clinic in Noveleta, Cavite, now pending BOI board approval. Once operational, the facility will house 12 advanced dialysis machines and serve up to 75 patients monthly.
DTI emphasized that NephroPlus’ initiatives align with the Marcos administration’s Bagong Pilipinas vision and the Universal Health Care Act by bringing life-saving services closer to communities, especially outside Metro Manila.
The Board of Investments confirmed that dialysis centers located outside Metro Manila may qualify for fiscal incentives under the CREATE Act and the Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP), further encouraging health investments in the regions.
“When we open more doors to healthcare, we open more doors to inclusive growth,” Roque added. “This partnership shows how the private sector can help us bring quality care to every Filipino, wherever they are.”
NephroPlus’ roadmap for 2025–2028 includes tripling its Filipino workforce, deploying AI-enabled treatment monitoring, and leading clinical research in dialysis care. These initiatives are expected to contribute significantly to the Philippines’ growing healthcare economy, estimated to rise sharply amid increasing cases of CKD linked to diabetes and hypertension. ♦
Date of Release: 11 August 2025
Read more[su_button url=”https://old-dti.beesites.net/news” style=”flat” background=”#0e5aa0″ color=”#fff” radius=”0″ icon=”icon: chevron-right” icon_color=”#fff” title=”Click to see more News”]Click here to see more[/su_button]
[/su_tab]
[su_tab title=”Advisories” disabled=”no” anchor=”” url=”” target=”blank” class=””]
[su_button url=”https://old-dti.beesites.net/news” style=”flat” background=”#0e5aa0″ color=”#fff” radius=”0″ icon=”icon: chevron-right” icon_color=”#fff” title=”Click to see more Advisories”]Click here to see more[/su_button]
[/su_tab]
[su_tab title=”Success Stories” disabled=”no” anchor=”” url=”” target=”blank” class=””]
Not all heroes wear capes. Some carry babies while presenting business plans.
Jona May Carandang is a hardworking mompreneur from Bay, Laguna. She began her entrepreneurial journey with just Php2,500 lent by her sister, selling skincare and beauty products while working as a barista. But deep down, her heart was always set on something else—food, coffee, and drinks.
Inspired by her daughter Janaya, Jona gave her latest business a name that felt close to home: JanaTayo Magkape Food and Refreshment Hub. What started as a home-based setup eventually grew into a small but thriving food hub near UP Rural High School. A dream that once fit in a corner of their house now serves students and locals who keep coming back for the flavors and the warmth.
In 2022, Jona joined the Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP!) of the Department of Trade and Industry – Laguna Provincial Office (DTI-Laguna). While presenting her business plan, she held her 2-year-old daughter in her arms—crying nonstop. It was chaotic, unplanned, and real. Many would have backed out, but Jona stood her ground. She presented anyway—and not only did she finish, she topped the batch, winning first place in the Business Plan Presentation for Bay, Laguna.
With the Php10,000 cash prize, she invested in basic equipment through the Orange App and began building the version of JanaTayo Magkape she had always envisioned. Bit by bit, her home kitchen transformed into a fully functioning food hub. She now creates her own dips, sauces, and flavors—taste-tested by family and friends who aren’t shy to give feedback. Each item on the menu has a story and a personal touch.
Through the help of DTI-Laguna—particularly the YEP! program—Jona was able to strengthen her entrepreneurial foundation. The targeted trainings and mentorship sessions gave her access to practical tools and business development resources she wouldn't have had otherwise.
However, the journey hasn’t been without setbacks. Her store was recently robbed. Despite this, she didn’t let it stop her. “Setbacks aren’t dead ends,” she says. “They’re detours with lessons.” Instead of giving up, she treated it as just another chapter in her journey.
With her husband’s full support, she continues to juggle parenting and business every single day. The shop remains modest in size, but its charm and heart are impossible to miss. Among her regulars are high school students, passersby, and curious newcomers—many of whom end up staying longer than planned.
“When you start a family, lahat gagawin mo para sumakses. Lalo na kung para sa anak mo,” she says, smiling. “Even with the messiness, crying child, no babysitter… you keep going.”
She encourages other aspiring entrepreneurs not to wait for the perfect time. Start now, she says. Celebrate every small win. Learn as you go.
Jona dreams of expanding to more locations someday. She hopes to mentor young parents and fellow mompreneurs—those who want to build something meaningful even when life feels too messy to begin with.
Success, for Jona, didn’t come in the form of overnight wealth or fame. It came in quiet victories: one customer returning for coffee, one new menu item that clicked, and one day survived—with a toddler on her hip and orders in the queue.
Minsan, sumasakses ka hindi dahil marami ka nang naipon, kundi dahil hindi ka sumuko kahit sobrang hirap. At dahil pinili mong tuparin ang pangarap mo kahit may iyak, kalat, at kapeng natapon sa daan.
Maybe, that is the kind of success that truly matters.
By: Avegail D. Agojo (DTI-Laguna NCBC, Bay, Laguna) ♦
Date of release: 09 July 2025
Read more
Cavite, Philippines — Kaiser Roleen R. Mendoza, a graduate of Business Administration with a specialization in Entrepreneurial Management, harbored a lifelong dream of reviving his family's legacy. His grandmother founded 3 Cousins Digman Halo-Halo in 1977, a local favorite known for its unique and homemade ingredients. Sadly, the business closed its doors in 1988.
Unbowed by setbacks, Mendoza started on a series of entrepreneurial ventures. After running a coffee shop from 2008 to 2012, he explored various avenues, including selling everyday essentials like napkins, soap, toothbrushes, and oil. He even ventured into online sales of boat propellers that reached customers up to Visayas and Mindanao. While not all his endeavors were successful, they provided invaluable lessons in business and resilience.
Despite the enduring popularity of halo-halo, Mendoza observed a significant gap in the market. Many halo-halo vendors lacked a strong online presence, and many physical stores suffered from limited parking space or were difficult to locate using online maps. Recognizing this problem as an opportunity, he registered his business with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in 2022.
On 9 January 2023, Mendoza launched 3 Cousins Digman Halo-Halo in Dasmariñas City, offering pick-up and delivery services. With an initial capital of PHP 7,000 and a strong desire to honor his family’s heritage and share their beloved halo-halo with a wider audience, Mendoza revived the business, focusing on addressing identified challenges. He leveraged online platforms to enhance access and customer engagement and secured a location with ample parking space for customer convenience.
Drawing upon his grandmother's original recipe and incorporating his own entrepreneurial knowledge, he meticulously crafted a menu featuring all-natural, homemade ingredients, including Crema Del Cielo. The response has been overwhelmingly positive. 3 Cousins Digman Halo-Halo quickly gained a loyal following, captivating customers with its authentic flavors and commitment to quality.
Driven by a strong determination to succeed, Mendoza participated in Mr. Joey Concepcion’s 3M on Wheels at Robinsons Galleria. This opened the door for him to graduate from the DTI’s Kapatid Mentor Me Program and became a beneficiary of the One Town, One Product Philippines Program, further equipping him with the knowledge and support to grow his business.
Recognizing the potential for growth, Mendoza began exploring catering service opportunities in April 2023, aiming to expand the brand’s reach and share his family's unique halo-halo with the rest of the country.
As the brand gained traction, the business was featured on local radio and the popular television show, "Good Morning, Kapatid." In July 2024, 3 Cousins Digman Halo-Halo achieved a major milestone by registering as an IPO brand and securing trademark certificates for its official logo in October 2024. They also introduced Digmo, their mascot. Mendoza's entrepreneurial spirit continued to drive the business forward as he participated in the BPI SEAL-SEGA 2024, a business pitching competition organized by the BPI Foundation, and was placed as one of the Top 40 awardees.
The journey of Mendoza’s 3 Cousins Digman Halo-Halo is an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance, family legacy, and a deep-rooted passion for entrepreneurship. ♦
Date of release: 04 March 2025
Read more
Cavite, Philippines — What started as a simple endeavor to share delicious “pulutan” (finger food) with friends has grown into a celebrated brand in Cavite:. This is the story of Ms. Rhea Santillan and her business, Pat & Kat Pork Chicharon.
Starting from humble beginnings, their pork “chicharon” quickly gained popularity, earning recognition as one of Cavite’s most promising businesses. Its unique flavor and exceptional quality made it a crowd favorite, solidifying its status as a must-try local delicacy.
Customers are drawn to the distinct taste and the consistent quality that sets it apart from its competitors. The challenges of the pandemic even unexpectedly presented an opportunity for innovation. Supply shortages prompted the team to adapt and introduce another family favorite—Crispy Pata. Initially shared through social media posts with family, friends, and local customers, this mouthwatering dish soon captured the hearts and became an integral part of the Pat & Kat brand.
In 2022, the venture achieved a significant milestone with the launch of its first physical food-to-go store in Poblacion IV, Tanza, under its exclusive distributor, Lucky Food Services. This success led to the opening of two more stores: one on Centennial Road, Kawit and another in the bustling Pasig-Rotonda area of Pasig City.
Ms. Rhea was invited by the Negosyo Center in Tanza to join the Kapatid Mentor Me-Money Market Encounter (KMME-MME) Program. This initiative supports micro and small entrepreneurs by spurring economic activity, generating employment opportunities, and preparing businesses for expansion. Through the program, she gained invaluable insights for her business operations and strategies, which proved instrumental in achieving her growth goals. Her dedication was recognized when she presented one of the best Business Improvement Plan. Moreover, she established meaningful connections with fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, and industry experts, forming a network that continues to provide significant advice, support, and collaboration opportunities.
Pat & Kat Pork’s “chicharon”and “crispy pata”have become staples among locals, balikbayans, restaurants, pasalubong stores, and private companies.
Currently, their delectable products are available in different stores across Cavite, with an additional branch in Pasig City.
Looking ahead, Ms. Rhea envisions ambitious expansion plans, including transitioning from a food-to-go concept to a combination of food-to-go and dine-in services. Additionally, they plan to grow through franchising and explore opportunities to export their beloved products internationally. With dedication, innovation, and a focus on quality, Pat & Kat Pork Chicharon continues to thrive while staying true to its roots—delivering unforgettable flavors to its loyal customers. ♦
Date of release: 04 March 2025
Read more
Cavite, Philippines—In 2000, Mrs. Mary Grace Sanarez moved to China as a dependent of her husband. During their time abroad, the family frequently hosted feasts and served tapa to visitors. This dish became a beloved comfort food, inspiring her to open a “tapsihan” business upon her return home.
However, in November 2019, as the COVID-19 pandemic began to spread, she was unable to return to China. With a capital of only PHP 150,000, she established “Gracia’s Tapsihan.” As a sole proprietor, she single-handedly managed production, client service, and all other operations.
“Gracia’s Tapsihan” officially opened in January 2020, offering meals priced between PHP 50 to PHP 150. The menu features a variety of affordable, ready-to-eat rice meals, including rice, egg, and a choice of viand, along with unlimited complimentary soup. In addition to these budget-friendly “silog” meals, Gracia’s Tapsihan also offers delectable condiments and side dishes, such as homemade spiced vinegar, patis, chili garlic sauce, bagoong, and atchara, all of which complement the rice meals perfectly. During the pandemic, their packed meals became a hit through delivery services, catering to residents in Naic, Maragondon, Ternate, Magallanes, and Batangas.
“Gracia’s Tapsihan” continues to serve affordable “silog” meals to the residents of Naic and its neighboring cities and municipalities. Its mission is to serve delicious, high-quality, and budget-friendly meals while prioritizing the well-being of its employees, community, and environment. The business envisions becoming one of the top five quality and budget-friendly tapsilog establishments in Naic.
In 2023, Mrs. Sanarez was introduced to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and was selected as a mentee in the Kapatid Mentor ME-Money Market Encounter (KMME-MME) online training program under the DTI Cavite. The KMME-MME online program is a DTI initiative designed to help micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) survive and grow despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Through the KMME-MME program, she gained valuable knowledge on properly running a business and establishing a strong foundation for long-term success and sustainability. She also learned the importance of good product presentation to capture customers' attention and drive sales.
Beyond their signature condiments and “silog” meals, Gracia’s Tapsihan has expanded its offerings to include a healthy calamansi and malunggay juice drink. This beverage combines the zesty tang of calamansi with the earthy goodness of malunggay, creating a refreshing and nutritious drink rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and E, and essential nutrients. It has become a popular choice among health-conscious customers seeking a natural energy boost. As an advocate for healthier alternatives, Mrs. Sanarez promotes this drink as a nutritious replacement for soda, particularly for children.
With a promising future in the horizon, Sanarez remains committed to providing high-quality service and healthy products to her customers. She is actively seeking resellers for her condiments and is working towards expanding her business into a larger facility. ♦
Date of release: 03 March 2025
Read more[su_button url=”https://old-dti.beesites.net/news” style=”flat” background=”#0e5aa0″ color=”#fff” radius=”0″ icon=”icon: chevron-right” icon_color=”#fff” title=”Click to see more Success Stories”]Click here to see more[/su_button]
[/su_tab]
[/su_tabs]