Iloilo: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) continues to aid micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Iloilo through its shared service facilities (SSF). "The purpose of SSF is to focus on industries with huge potential, but our MSMEs or processors have no capacity to invest in equipment. So, this is what the SSF is trying to address," Jonathan Tejida, Supervising Trade-Industry Development Specialist for DTI Iloilo, said in a press conference on Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DTI has launched an SSF for weaving in Barangay Baje in Leon town this year. The department is also anticipating the completion of a showroom to unveil the SSF for bamboo processing, pasalubong (souvenir), and the showroom in Barangay Mandog in Maasin town. Additionally, the delivery of an SSF for virgin coconut oil (VCO) in New Lucena is underway. Currently, 34 SSFs have been established, with the number expected to rise to 36 by year-end following the VCO SSF delivery.

Three of the six proposals for additional SSFs received conditional approval from the regional technical working group (RTWG) this year. These projects include a peanut processing initiative in San Joaquin, a batwan powder and cookie enterprise in Batad, and a mushroom project for Dumangas. Looking ahead, DTI plans additional projects for 2025, including new equipment for garments in Lambunao, cacao processing in Dingle, and bamboo processing in Alimodian.

Tejida explained that after two years, if the SSF is well-managed, the DTI will turn it over to the co-operator, who can then propose enhancements.