Bicol: The Department of Trade and Industry in Bicol (DTI-5) has reported a nearly 20 percent increase in the number of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) assisted by the agency compared to 2024. During a report presented at the Small Talk Cafe, DTI-5 Regional Director Dindo Nabol stated that the number rose from 28,076 to 33,538 as of November.
According to Philippines News Agency, the growth is part of DTI's ongoing efforts to support the development and success of businesses in the region. "We develop, regulate, and provide support. Our goal is to help these businesses grow from their current livelihood status to nano, micro, small, medium, and eventually large enterprises. There is a process to achieve these levels," Nabol said.
In 2025, notable progress was observed as 19 micro-entrepreneurs upgraded to small enterprises, while 11 small enterprises transitioned to medium enterprises. Nabol explained, "The capital for micro enterprises is below PHP3 million. To transition to small enterprises, they must have more than PHP3 million in capital."
The agency also reported an increase in the number of Barangay Micro Business Enterprises (BMBEs) from 4,617 to 4,854 and business names from 36,452 to 37,907. Clients assisted rose significantly from 54,792 to 66,706. Additionally, DTI provided 337 kits worth PHP2.9 million to microenterprises affected by weather disturbances in the region.
For consumer protection, DTI conducted 26 diskwento caravans, serving 374 barangays and benefiting 8,451 individuals, generating PHP7.7 million in sales. The agency achieved a 100 percent resolution rate for the 767 consumer complaints received, with the top issues being deceptive sales practices, product liability, and warranties.
DTI Bicol also released 1,854 loans for MSMEs across the six provinces, amounting to PHP411 million, to ensure business continuity, upgrades, and improvements. Outbound business missions enabled MSMEs from the Bicol Region to travel to Taiwan and Europe, generating PHP496,203 and PHP9.1 million, respectively.
The Orgullo Kan Bikol (OKB) trade fair was another highlight, generating more than PHP45 million in sales. Furthermore, 20 establishments received Halal certification, promoting inclusivity in all markets within the region.
For the One Town, One Product initiative, DTI Bicol established an additional 13 hubs, maintaining 23 others, resulting in PHP55.58 million in sales.
