City Government, partners, help MSMEs grow in today’s digital world

The Iloilo City Government in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCC) Iloilo Chapter, and Globe Telecom gathered some of the country’s trade and commerce experts to help micro, small, and medium-enterprises (MSMEs) to grow their business in today’s digital world.

During the Globe myBusiness Academy event at SM City Iloilo Northpoint Activity Center last June 28, 2018, current and aspiring entrepreneurs were made ready to learn more about their business through talks and demos by the event’s speakers.

Iloilo City Mayor Jose Espinosa III during his welcome speech highlighted the importance of future proofing Ilonggo businesses through the use of customer advocacy, offline tools, and online tools. 

“This project aims to aid you in choosing the right business that fits you in the most possible way, it provides quintessential tools to further boost your business and provide you ease in life, it can also provide you the aid you need to be future proof,” Mayor Espinosa said.

The mayor also highlighted the important relationship of technology and business when he said, “The idea of technology and business is not irrelevant, but they are more of a cohesive unit to work with, it is an ingenious way of creating a successful business.”

After his message, the mayor spearheaded the ceremonial handshake which officially signalled the start of a digital business city.

Renowned motivational speaker Francis Kong helped Ilonggo business owners prepare their businesses for growth and success through innovation. Atty. Jobert Peñaflorida, PCCI Iloilo Chapter President, meanwhile shared his experiences as a digiprenuer, and how Ilonggo businesses can help can benefit by embracing the digital world. Michelle Leong, of Lifesprings/1010 Life, talked about creating the proper mindset for progress through entrepreneurship, innovation and collaboration. While Roby Rivera from Globe myBusiness talked about digital marketing, and the new ways to market products and services for Ilonggo business owners.

Aside from the speakers, the event also showcased several exhibitors from DTI, LGU, Bank of the Philippines (BPI) Ka-Negosyo, Lazada, Lezeth Food Products, Abby’s Chicharon, Jankrist Footwear Enterprise, Scherz Indigenous Crafts Creation, and Globe Telecom. Some exhibitors offered business consultations to help Ilonngo business owners become better adopters of the digital world, while others displayed and sold their products at special rates to the attendees. (Juhn Evans Silda)