By Rjay Zuriaga Castor
Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) in Western Visayas will finally have an integrated and comprehensive database management system that will provide policy directions and solutions to effectively manage various aspects of MSME information.
This was made possible through the Department of Trade and Industry Region VI (DTI-6) launching of the Integrated MSME Management Information System (iMMIS) on June 8.
“[The iMMIS is] a powerful tool that will enable us to effectively collect, organize, and analyze information on our MSMEs here in Region VI,” said Ermelinda P. Pollentes, DTI-6 officer-in-charge director.
She added that by harnessing the power of data, iMMIS will provide DTI valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by MSMEs.
“iMMIS is not just a database. It is a catalyst for change, empowering us to make informed decisions and provide the necessary support to our MSMEs as they navigate the ever-evolving business landscape,” Pollentes continued.
DTI-6 noted that limited access to valuable information, lack of comprehensive databases, scattered data resulting in inaccessible information, and insufficient use of information technology are the major challenges faced by MSMEs in the region.
The iMMIS will feature clients and MSMEs profile, dashboard statistics, MSME mapping and geo-tagging, assistance, disaster management, and programs and training management.
According to Pollentes, from January 2022 to June 7, over 48,000 businesses in the region have successfully registered and are now utilizing the iMMIS.
Pollentes furthered that the iMMIS will provide insights and help in data-driven decision making in the conduct of relevant and appropriate programs, projects and activities for MSMEs in the region.
Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual likewise said the comprehensive database in the iMMIS will provide much needed MSME information to guide policies, strategies, and programs of the national government.
“We endorse referencing iMMIS when crafting strategies to achieve the triple bottom line [sustainability framework] of profit, people and planet,” Pascual added.
He furthered that initiatives such as the iMMIS is a critical milestone in enforcing MSMEs and industries in Western Visayas and serve as a model that can be replicated in other regions across the country.
