The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Guimaras, in partnership with Negosyo Center Sibunag, LGU Sibunag, and various government agencies, launched the “Biz Boost: Navigating Government Programs for MSMEs” initiative at the Sibunag Municipal Hall.
The program aims to equip micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with knowledge on accessing government services, funding, and support to help them grow sustainably and remain competitive.
Through a comprehensive seminar, the initiative provided participants with a streamlined overview of government programs and regulatory processes.
Key stakeholders included DTI Guimaras, the Sibunag local government led by Mayor Annabelle V. Samaniego, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) RDO 74, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Guimaras, the Sibunag Business Permits and Licensing Office, and the Small Business Corporation.
Each agency offered technical guidance on compliance, financing, and business development.
In her opening remarks, DTI Guimaras Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist Nesgen Rhea C. Zerrudo emphasized the importance of collaboration.
“We are your partners in navigating the various programs and services available to help your businesses grow,” Zerrudo said.
“By working together, we can strengthen our efforts toward creating an enabling business climate that supports MSMEs in achieving long-term success,” she added.
The seminar featured discussions by resource speakers on key business operations and regulatory requirements.
Ms. Ruth Penuela, Negosyo Center coordinator, outlined the step-by-step process for business name registration.
Mr. Samuel L. Tacadao, licensing officer, detailed the procedures and requirements for obtaining a mayor’s permit.
Mr. Kenneth Jun V. Eusebio, senior labor and employment officer of DOLE Guimaras, highlighted key labor laws and employee welfare guidelines.
BIR Revenue Officers Angel Kym B. Terrania and Janry Joshua B. Angelitud provided insights on tax registration, compliance obligations, and consequences of non-compliance.
Ms. Joyce M. Gedalanga, P3 provincial coordinator of Small Business Corporation, presented financing options and MSME loan programs tailored to small business needs.
After the learning sessions, MSME participants engaged in one-on-one consultations with agency representatives, allowing for personalized advice and clarification of specific business concerns.
A total of 43 MSMEs—both established entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners—actively took part in the event.
Their high level of participation demonstrated growing awareness of the value of regulatory compliance and government-backed support in driving business success.
In her closing remarks, DTI Guimaras Trade and Industry Development Specialist Rejoice Orquia thanked the partner agencies and LGU Sibunag for their collaboration.
She noted that MSMEs gained critical insights during the session, which would continue to serve as a valuable resource for DTI business counselors assisting entrepreneurs at the local level.
The event successfully provided MSMEs with the tools, knowledge, and networks needed to better navigate government services.
DTI Guimaras and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to empowering local enterprises and fostering a business-friendly environment that supports long-term growth.
Participants left the seminar with greater awareness of available resources, improved business acumen, and renewed confidence in growing their ventures.
With sustained collaboration from national agencies, local governments, and the business sector, MSMEs in Sibunag are well-positioned to drive innovation and contribute meaningfully to regional economic development.
