Paving opportunities for Micro Small Medium Enterprise (MSME) entrepreneurs is the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) launching of One Town, One Product Philippines (OTOP.Ph) Hub in Iligan City to push quality products and services rooted in local culture into the market.
Assistant Secretary Demphna Du-Naga, Regional Operations Group (ROG), DTI Central Office, enthusiastically led the ceremonial lighting and unveiling of the hub, together with DTI-10 Regional Director Linda Boniao, and Provincial Director Ruel Paclipan, DTI-Iligan/Lanao del Norte.
“Our target is for every province to have an OTOP.Ph Hub, so that we can have an exchange of product from one province to another, and balikbayans or travelers will have a one-stop shop where they could easily buy locally made goods,” said Asec. Du-Naga.
Through OTOP.Ph Hubs, DTI and Local Government Units (LGUs) with private partners and associations/cooperatives embarked in transforming pasalubong centers and souvenir shops all over the country as a market access platform for mainstream consumers and buyers.
Through DTI, OTOPreneurs underwent product evaluation, business training, product development, brand mentoring and other customized interventions to transform their business and products as top market competitors.
It also opened the opportunity for local laborers to impart their best craftsmanship and produce their known delicacies that are in-line with market standards.
Hub operator, PO3 Marc Claro said, “You will be surprised on how great our local products are. As hub operators, we are overwhelmed with happiness because this became a win-win situation for us. Aside from the government who assisted us to operate, they also extended their helping hand to encourage local MSMEs in doing business as producers, generate income and give employment opportunities.”
There are different varieties of locally made products being displayed at the store. Some of which are Piaya de Iliganand Palapa(an appetizer made of pasted shallot stalk), Iligan’s pride and of the province of Lanao del Norte, respectively.
Non-food items are also for sale in the hub including those from the Task Force Bangon Marawi Program made by the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), which are Maranao malongs, gowns, ornaments, and musical instruments.
OTOP.Ph Hub, in partnership with Hometown Pasalubong Center, is located at the 2ndFloor of Robinson’s Place, Iligan City. (clviajante, PIA Iligan)
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