by admin | Apr 10, 2017 | ASEAN agenda, DTI Updates
TOKYO—Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary and 2017 ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) chair Ramon Lopez reported that the Philippines successfully advanced ASEAN’s objective to engage Japan on innovation, the inclusivity of the region’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) during the AEM Roadshow to Japan from 6 to 8 April 2017.
The ASEAN Delegation with ASEAN Secretary-General Le Luong Minh held a substantive discussion with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Minister Hiroshige Seko of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and key local government officials to discuss measures to enhance ASEAN-Japan economic relations.
The Delegation also met with the Parliamentary Association for the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) and some economic organizations such as the ASEAN–Japan Business Council and the ASEAN Business Advisory Council.
MSME development
“We learned how Japanese start-ups make an impact on the economy through their innovative and creative ideas,” said Sec. Lopez, whose thrust at the domestic front is to empower MSMEs through an innovation-led, productivity-oriented framework.
The Delegation traveled to Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Wakayama and gathered insights on how Japan managed to gain its stature as a global leader for innovation. Specific sites visited were Hitachi Ltd., Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Panasonic Konosuke Matsushita Museum and Shima Seiki Manufacturing Ltd.
The Delegation also met Osaka Governor Ichirō Matsui and Osaka Mayor Hirofumi Yoshimura. The Osaka Prefecture and Osaka City governments have been long partners with Philippine government agencies in promoting investments of their small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Philippines. Osaka City has become Manila’s Business Partner City since October 1989. On the other hand, Osaka Prefecture is the first prefecture to sign an investment promotion Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) in January 2016.
In September 2017, Osaka City will organize a business matching event between Japanese and the Filipino SMEs in automotive and aerospace parts manufacturing and electronics contract manufacturing.
Sec. Lopez also shared that parallel endeavors from ASEAN and Japanese business communities to create lasting partnerships with MSMEs were observed during the business matching event held on 7 April, on the sidelines of the 2017 AEM Roadshow.
Also on the sidelines, the ASEAN-Japan Trade and Industry Ministers reaffirmed commitment to strengthen economic and industrial cooperation, in line with the ASEAN-Japan Strategic Economic Cooperation Roadmap.
“Included in the cooperation is to connect ASEAN SMEs with the global value chain, where SMEs will be supported thru capacity building, networking and business matching and enabling of new industries and start-ups,” Sec. Lopez said.
Innovation, regional economic partnership
During an informal AEM–METI consultations, the Delegation discussed ASEAN-Japan economic relations, in particular the ongoing RCEP negotiations. Sec. Lopez reiterated that with RCEP, the current ASEAN market of 600 million could expand to more than 3 billion, thus representing a huge integrated market base. ASEAN is committed to work with Japan and other RCEP participating countries to come up with a modern, comprehensive, high quality, and mutually beneficial agreement.
Meanwhile, ASEAN-Japan Trade and Industry Ministers agreed to promote innovation and entrepreneurship, creating new industries, as well as social agenda on mobility, energy and healthcare thru cutting-edge technology. Business collaborations started with the launch of ASEAN-Japan Innovation network, according to the trade chief.
The Ministers welcomed the proposal of Philippines to organize regular ASEAN-Japan Trade Fair to promote the best of products in the region and the respective branding as well.
On RCEP, the Ministers also considered the possibility of having phased agreement or a building-block approach, completing areas on trade in goods and services, rules of origin, trade facilitation and intellectual property rights.
“RCEP aims to be inclusive and innovation-led since it will include provisions that will support MSME development, e-commerce, human resource and capacity building, education, trade, finance, business matching, technical cooperation and market promotion and safety nets. A special study is being conducted to find ways to reduce non-tariff measures and remaining trade barriers,” he added.
PH’s ASEAN chairmanship
With the Philippines taking chairmanship of ASEAN 2017, the theme is focused on “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World.” The Economic Ministers are promoting “inclusive, innovation-led growth” for shared prosperity in the region in relation to the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC).
The three strategic measures to achieve this theme include increasing trade and investment, integrating MSMEs in the global value chains and developing an innovation-driven economy.
On behalf of ASEAN Economic Ministers, Sec. Lopez thanked the Japanese Government for the successful implementation of the Roadshow.
He also looked forward to welcoming Minister Seko in Manila in September for the AEM-METI Consultations and Prime Minister Abe in November for the ASEAN-Japan Summit.
by admin | Apr 7, 2017 | DTI Updates, Local News / Bohol Balita
DTI Bohol and Negosyo Center Bohol conducted a Business and Consumer Education Seminar last March 30, 2017 at Bohol Investment Promotion Center. It is part of DTIs advocacy for business and consumer protection and is aimed at increasing public awareness about consumer rights and responsibilities and other trade and industry laws.
The seminar was held at the Mezzanine Floor of the Bohol Investment Promotion Center, Tagbilaran City.
Mr. Miguel Abuyabor of DTI Bohol was the resource person.
by admin | Apr 7, 2017 | DTI Updates, Local News / Bohol Balita, Negosyo Center Updates
The Bohol Investment Promotions Center and Negosyo Center Bohol jointly conducted a Pricing and Costing Seminar for micro, small and medium entrepreneurs last March 15, 2017 at Panda Tea Garden Suites, Tagbilaran City.
The activity is the first among the series of capability building initiatives of BIPC for its its Basic Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Transformation (B.E.S.T. Series. Thirty (30) MSMEs attended the said seminar and were very thankful for the opportunity given to them.
(for training/seminar schedules, please visit us at the Ground Floor, New Capitol Building, Marapao Street, Tagbilaran City)
(photo: the active participants together with Ms. Maria Fe “Ynday” Dominise, BIPC Head, Claire Apale, Jr. Business Counselor of Negosyo Center Bohol and Mr. Jess Bernasor, Resource Speaker)
by admin | Apr 7, 2017 | DTI Updates, National News, Tech Talk
QBO Innovation Hub, an established partnership between the public and private sector including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), IdeaSpace Foundation, and J.P. Morgan, opened its startup enablement programs to help speed up growth and learning for Philippine startups and entrepreneurs.
“We are excited to create success stories that will inspire Filipinos to start their own companies instead of pursuing opportunities overseas,” said QBO and IdeaSpace President Butch Meily. QBO will start offering programs and services to startups including access to QBO’s networking events such as classes, workshops, mentorship, feedback sessions, and use of its co-working space.
Available services also include professional consultations on legal, accounting, marketing and design, corporate and government partner resources referrals, incorporation assistance, business registration, intellectual property filing, and investors and potential partners pitching.
“DTI hopes that with our partners from industry, academe, and other government agencies such as DOST and DICT, our initiatives will help advance the development of our local startup ecosystem and increase the number of high-growth oriented enterprises that will bring the Philippine brand in a global scale,” emphasized DTI Trade and Investments Promotions Group Undersecretary Nora K. Terrado.
Through QBO, startups will also have an opportunity to join J.P. Morgan’s Incubation Program, a stage agnostic module that will be available to select and high-potential startups all year round. It initially plans to enroll 15 startups by the end of 2017.
“As one of the world’s leading financial institutions, J.P. Morgan celebrates new ideas and we are committed to supporting entrepreneurs in the country, especially those with underserved backgrounds. Engaging with Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at their early stages is critical and we are excited about the tremendous opportunities they will bring to developing sectors and generating jobs, which are both vital in promoting prosperous and thriving communities,” said Roberto L. Panlilio, Senior Country Officer, J.P. Morgan Philippines.
To avail the said services, startups need to have an initial interview with the QBO team and undergo initial assessment. Through this, a customized plan will be designed to match with the resources needed by the startup. QBO launches hub for startup programs 2| P a g e QBO was launched in 2016 with DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez and PLDT Group Chair Manny V. Pangilinan. It aims to link innovators, explorers, investors, academic institutions, start-up mentors, funders and enablers as well as a broad spectrum of partners and stakeholders from both public and private sectors to convene in constructive interaction.
“The Philippine startup ecosystem is growing incredibly quickly, fueled by a young population engaged in the internet and digital, and more importantly, by entrepreneurs that demonstrate incredible determination and commitment.
By continuing to develop ideas into innovative products and technologies, startups can evolve to become great companies that positively impact the future of the Philippines” said DOST
Undersecretary for Research and Development, Dr. Rowena Cristina L. Guevara. QBO is the first innovation hub in the country, pioneering the first public-private effort to establish an innovation ecosystem in the Philippines following success stories of Silicon Valley in the United States, BLK 71 in Singapore, and MaGIC in Malaysia.
by admin | Apr 7, 2017 | DTI Updates, Photo Story
AEMs, ABE AGREE ON LIBERALIZING REGIONAL TRADE. The ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) led by Chair and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez (right) met recently (6 April) with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (center) and Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) Minister Hiroshige Seko (left) during the AEM Roadshow in Japan to discuss the initiatives of ASEAN, Philippines, and Japan to stimulate continuing globalization and freer trade by limiting protectionism in fiscal policies. Secretary Lopez, along with the other ASEAN Economic Ministers, also pushed for liberal regional trade through the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) to spur a more competitive market for consumers. During the discussion, Lopez extended President Duterte’s well wishes to PM Abe who was warmly welcomed by the Filipinos and President Duterte in Davao last January. The vibrant and continuing dialogue of ASEAN and the Philippines with Japan signals a good indication for the recognition for the RCEP. The ASEAN Economic Ministers will continue their discussions with Japan today (7 April) on trade and investment cooperation.
by admin | Apr 5, 2017 | DTI Updates, National News, Photo Story
DTI SUPPORTS BSP FOR NEW E-PAYMENT SOLUTIONS. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez (3rd from L) with USAID Philippines Acting Office Director Dr. Stephen Andoseph (leftmost), Malaya Rural Bank, President Antonio Pasia(2nd from L), Union Bank Philippines Chairman Mr. Justo Ortiz (center R), PayMaya Philippines President Orlando Vea (3rd from R) and Wealth Development Bank President Mr. Gregorio Anonas III (rightmost) recently (31 March) extended support for the National Retail Payment System (NRPS) during the ceremonial signing of the Payment System Management Body (PMSB) Charter in Manila. The PSMB will pave way to the for the creation of two E-Retail Payment Systems, PESO Net and InstaPay, which aim to provide ease of access to credit and spur the growth of the E-commerce industry in the country by providing safe, reliant and efficient online payment system. “This continuous innovation by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) helps not the economy but more importantly the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) sector,” said Secretary Lopez, adding that the NRPS will provide a technology that is more accessible to all, including the MSMEs. This will lead to financial inclusion and, more importantly, will promote efficiencies and lower cost of doing business. The ceremony was opened and led by BSP Governor Amando Tetangco (center L) and Deputy Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr.(2nd from L).
by admin | Apr 4, 2017 | DTI Updates, National News
The Department of Trade and Industry – Regional Operations Group (DTI-ROG) continues to serve micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and create entrepreneurs through its Negosyo Centers.
DTI – ROG Supervising Undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya said Negosyo Centers throughout the country will help MSMEs scale up their businesses through its services.
There have been 760,230 MSMEs assisted by these Negosyo Centers since its inception in 2014, Maglaya said. Likewise, these centers have also created 125,066 entrepreneurs.
“A total of 760,230 MSMEs assisted and 125,066 created entrepreneurs is quite a feat for us. Rest assured that we will continue increasing our Negosyo Centers in far-flung areas to create and serve more entrepreneurs, and provide employment to Filipinos,” she added.
As of March 28, 2017, the Department has already established 470 Negosyo Centers throughout the country.
“We are proud that we have established more Negosyo Centers more than what we have expected to establish. In 2016, we surpassed our target of 150 centers. Hopefully this year we can do the same to support the growth of MSMEs in the country,” Maglaya said, adding that Negosyo Centers help in achieving job generation and inclusive growth in support of the administration’s Trabaho at Negosyo agenda.
She added that for Business Name Registration alone, a total of 438,619 clients – 52,284 in 2015, 283,487 in 2016, and 134, 390 in just 3 months in 2017 – were assisted.
The Republic Act No. 10644 or the Go Negosyo Act aims to help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), promote ease of doing business, facilitate access to grants and other forms of financial assistance, Shared Service Facilities (SSF) and other equipment, and other support for MSMEs through national government agencies (NGAs), ensure management guidance, assistance and improvement of the working conditions of MSMEs; and facilitate market access and linkaging services for entrepreneurs.
by admin | Apr 1, 2017 | Opinion, Tech Talk
By: Jerome Auza
It has become a tradition of Auza.Net to accommodate as many on-the-job trainees as we could fit in our small office. This year, we have selected eight students who are graduating in the next school year to undergo our summer OJT program. Our projects include data processing and automation of mass data input. Some of the students will explore the use of Arduino and embedded systems for building security and monitoring applications. They will also learn about website development and will be involved in commercial projects.
They will also be involved in a small structured cabling project at the Auza.Net office.
The OJT program we conduct exposes the students to real world application of technology. It also gives them a gentle introduction into the world of business. Aside from learning technical skills, Auza.Net will also introduce business and leadership training this year. We believe that these students would benefit from the business knowledge they will gain. They will also learn to be leaders develop themselves to take on leadership positions when they get employed or start their own businesses.
The eight qualified trainees are BS Computer Engineering and BS Computer Science students selected from a fairly large number of applications.
We will publish their progress on their projects towards the end of the OJT program. Auza.Net has successfully launched commercial projects where trainees were involved in the development, testing and deployment. Among the notable projects are the DYRD-AM Worldwide Broadcast, the PPCRV-Bohol Online Election Data Audit System, Bohol News Daily and the PRC Passers websites.
by admin | Mar 27, 2017 | DTI Updates, Photo Story
DTI, Robinsons Department Store launch first Go Lokal! store for MSME dev’t in Manila. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez (4th from L) and Robinsons Department Store President and COO Robina Gokongwei-Pe (3rd from R) led the ceremonial launching of the first Go Lokal! store in Robinsons Place Manila on March 24. Go Lokal! is a retail store concept that serves as incubation, marketing, and branding platform for the best of Philippine micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) products including next generation One Town One Product (OTOP) offerings, showcasing modern and indigenous quality products crafted, designed, and created by innovative Philippine MSMEs. It can be found everyday in consumer-frequented locations as a mainstream distribution channel for world-class Filipino products while offering value for money for targeted consumers and tourists. Sec. Lopez said that aside from providing market access for MSME products, the program is a platform for new entrepreneurs to test the marketability of their products without the fear of losing rental and commercial costs because their experience is free of charge. Go Lokal! carries only globally competitive, world-class packaged products to encourage entrepreneurs to always level-up and innovate so they can be featured. After they are incubated and discovered, the program will feature the next deserving batch. Robinsons Department Store, an affiliate of Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc.,is the first to launch the project in a mainstream outlet. Joining them were Robinsons Department Store General Manager Johnson Go (leftmost), DTI Director Rhodora Leaño (2nd from L), DTI Asst. Secretary Rosvi Gaetos (3rd from L), Robinsons Malls Luzon Operations Director Irvin Wu (2nd from R) and celebrity endorser Maricar Reyes-Poon (rightmost).
by admin | Mar 23, 2017 | DTI Updates, Photo Story
In the effort to solidify and operationalize the Strategic Cooperation Agreement signed during the visit of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to Beijing last October 2016, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with the Bank of China (BOC), the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), and the International Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ICCP) organized the Philippines-China SME Cross-border Business Matching on 18 March at the Manila Hotel. DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez (right) and Chinese Vice Premier Wang Yang (left), who was in the country for a 3-day official visit, graced the event to underscore both governments’ strong support for SME development initiatives and for the renewed commercial engagements between the two countries. The business matching sessions brought together more than 600 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from Philippines and China representing industries such as agriculture, fisheries, food processing, furniture, tourism, real estate, construction, construction equipment and building materials, iron and steel, e-commerce and information technology, textiles and garments.
by admin | Mar 18, 2017 | Features, Tourism
The National Organizing Committee (NOC) of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations has reportedly picked Panglao in Bohol as among the few places in the country where Asian ministers and officials meet.
This is a rare opportunity for Bohol to be seen again by the investors and the prospecting financiers of the strong block of Asian power which has the reach to control the large trade and commerce the world is being fed.
Bohol’s tourism potential is definitely getting a big boost, although Bohol has already laid down the tracks upon which its tourism development must get railed.
And since the meetings in Panglao would be largely about trade and investment, Bohol would have the courtside chance of learning from the regional trade and investment policies agreed at the meetings with the 10 country’s most senior trade officials.
When several people still could not readily make the tie on how the ASEAN can bring good news to Bohol tables, tourism officials simply count the least of the number of guests coming in. Multiply it with the possible and reasonable daily spending for the three days of stay in Bohol, and lo, you have a ballpark figure in your hands.
At 200, or some 20 delegates per country, the province would get as much cash flowing in and out of the pockets of hotels, bus and van drivers, tour guides, restaurants and souvenir markets to stimulate the local economy.
The stimulus fund even goes exponentially when the Asian guests get home and start telling their moneyed to take a look and invest in Bohol. This isn’t far-fetched as the ASEAN integration also opens up the boundaries of member states to ease out business in the region.
That is why, we believe Govenor Edgar Chatto is on track when he issued the call for Bohol to fully prepare for the investment opportunity.
Roll out the red carpet, just like fiestas, we clean up our surroundings, we fix our potholed streets, string the banners, pick up and properly manage our garbage and leash our dogs, the governor called.
As the governors call resounds, many see this ASEAN welcome call as a make or break proof or how the governor can command the barangays and the puroks as he claimed his successes in Bohol’s anti drug campaigns are.
So we wait for the puroks, and the barangays to deliver the grand ASEAN welcome. Let’s see how these units which has been flooded with awards and recognitions enough to be called bribes work its way, not to make a huge mess making us come out as a huge embarrassment.
