LAGUNA, Philippines – The Department of Science and Technology Region (DOST) IV-A through the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) is bridging the gaps for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in the region.
Recently, DOST IV-A recently organized the Science for the People: Roadshow, SETUP and CEST Forum at Lolo’s Place in this town. Through the forum for SETUP beneficiaries and prospective SETUP Adoptors, DOST IV-A introduces other agencies and institutions to MSMEs who can help in their businesses.
Provincial Science and Technology Center (PSTC) Batangas Provincial Director Felina C. Malabanan, mentioned in the forum rationale the importance of the event both for DOST IV-A and the MSMEs. She said through the forum, DOST IV-A will be able to acquaint the MSMEs with institutions and or agencies who provide programs and services that could help in improving their business.
As introduction, PSTC Rizal Provincial Director Fernando E. Ablaza, discussed further the SETUP’s objective, application process, and how this assistance can benefit MSMEs who are not DOST IV-A assisted yet. In addition, he also mentioned other services such as energy audit and calibration services which could help small entrepreneurs generate savings.
Resource speakers during the forum included: CARD MRI Development Institute training director Mr. Neil M. Polinag, talked about the support program of CARD to established MSMEs; Development Bank of the Philippines Sr. assistant VP Ms. Aurora C. Maghirang, discussed the DBP-Bankability Enhancement of SETUP Technopreneurs; and DTI Trade & Industry Sr. development specialist Mr. Senen Briones detailed the export prospects of Philippine products.
Ms. Olivia Mendoza from CVC Tooling, Inc., a SETUP beneficiary, shared her testimonial with the other MSMEs during the forum.
Dr. Alexander R. Madrigal, Regional Director of DOST IV-A, and Ms. Emelita P. Bagsit, Supervising Senior Research Specialist, answered the queries of interested SETUP adoptors along with all the speakers regarding SETUP and other DOST IV-A S&T services such as food safety.
The forum for SETUP beneficiaries and prospective SETUP adoptors was simultaneously held in the same location with the forum for CEST and community based projects. Meanwhile, the Dairy Farmer’s Stakeholders Forum was held at Magdalena, Laguna, and the roadshow/project visit in CALABARZON food solutions hub toured LSPU Sta. Cruz, Reyson’s, and Bugong at Calauan town.
DOST Calabarzon SETUP: Bridging the gaps for MSMEs
