Dumaguete: Thousands of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Negros Oriental are set to benefit from the Negosyo Center Services Caravan, which aims to provide government services and create a venue for interaction with relevant agencies.

According to Philippines News Agency, the caravan, which started last week, will continue until next month and aims to cover all local government units (LGUs) with established Negosyo Centers. Krystle Jade Bato, the information officer of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the province, stated that the initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Bureau of Internal Revenue, and local government units. The goal is to offer businesses services and updates on fair trade laws, taxation, business registration, and other pertinent concerns.

Bato highlighted the need for entrepreneurs to become more familiar with digital tools and online platforms to streamline their business operations. She noted that many business owners are not tech-savvy and need to learn these skills to remain competitive. Additionally, she emphasized the importance of entrepreneurs being well-informed about occupational hazards and workplace safety.

The caravan's discussion topics include the digitalization of business registration, education on fair trade laws, advocacy for compliance with General Labor Standards and Occupational Health and Safety Standards, and providing taxation and local government services support to MSMEs.

The information dissemination caravan has already visited Tanjay City and the towns of Amlan, Pamplona, and Mabinay. Bato mentioned that there are 14 LGUs in Negros Oriental with existing Negosyo Centers, including the province's six cities, which the caravan will also visit. These centers serve as a one-stop shop, offering accessible services for small businesses.

DTI data indicates that Negros Oriental is home to almost 11,000 MSMEs, encompassing sole proprietorships and other business structures.