Published by the Depar tment of Trade and I ndustr y XII Vo l um e No.

November
2018

R12 KMME Mentee-Graduates

3rd Regional Showcase of Now at 212!
“SOX” Products and Services As of 2018, a total of 212 Micro, Small, and Medium
Enterprises (MSMEs) from Region 12 have graduated from the
Kapatid Mentor Me (KMME) Program of DTI and the Philippine
Center for Entrepreneurship-GO Negosyo. Thirty-three of these
KMME graduates are from North Cotabato, 37 from Sultan Kudarat,
35 from Sarangani and 36 from South Cotabato. On the other hand,
there were 30 graduates from Cotabato City and 41 from General
Santos City.

For three successive years, the Kapatid Mentor Me has changed

the lives of our MSMEs by giving them different perspectives
and innovative ideas on how to run their businesses, and the
opportunity to interact with other MSMEs in the region. Some of
them have already entered into other business arrangements with
other mentees through exchange, consolidation, and marketing of
products. .

In 2016, a total of 15 KMME mentees graduated. This was

followed with 131 in 2017 and 66 in 2018.

These MSMEs have undergone a succession of in-depth

trainings composed of lectures and one-on-one consultation/
business advisory services covering 10 module sessions, namely: (1)

Treasures of Region 12 Entrepreneurial Mind-setting and Values Formation; (2) Marketing;

(3A) Product Development; (3B) Market Growth and Expansion;
(4) Business Model Canvas; (5) Operations Management; (6)

2018 Rolls Out New And Supply and Value Chain Management; (7) Human Resource and
Organization Management; (8) Entrepreneurial Accounting and
Financial Management; (9) Taxation; and, (10) Business Law.

Innovative Concepts
This year’s Treasures of Region 12 Business & Jobs Fair 2018 is full of new and exciting events and opportunities for
The following are the breakdown of KMME Graduates by
province as well as the list of KMME graduates for Region 12.
business, investors, aspiring entrepreneurs and job-seekers alike. It will roll out new and innovative concepts that will
continue on page 5
enable MSMEs to become more market-ready and globally competitive, as well as drive investments generation in the
region.

Among the major highlights
are the “OuR12 Trade Expo”;
“NEGOsolusyon”; Negosyo Center
Serbisyo Sa Barangay Stakeholder’s
Summit; Trabaho, Negosyo,
Kabuhayan (TNK) Jobs and
Business Fair; Regional CMCI Forum
and Awarding; and, MSME Regional
Congress 2018.
OuR12 Trade Expo
Over 1,000 products from
various MSMEs in Region 12 will be
showcased in the 5th Treasures of
Region 12 this November 14 - 18 at
SM City General Santos. Dubbed as
“OuR12 Trade Expo”, it will showcase
the best of Region 12 from export-
ready food products to high-quality
arts, crafts, and furniture. A total of
60 regular exhibitors from Region
12 will display their products.
Selected clients of the Department
of Agriculture (DA) and Department
of Labor and Employment (DOLE)
will also join the trade exhibit.
The Treasures of Region 12 will
also unveil two new innovative
concepts: “TsokoKapeTearia” and
“OuR12 Treats”. The special pavilion
dubbed as “TsokoKapeTearia” will
offer premium coffee and cacao
blends and flavorful teas that
are sourced locally and paired
with food products from “OuR12
Treats” which offers a wide array
of delicious bread and pastry
pasalubong products.
NEGOsolusyon: SOS to Success
Dubbed as the MSMEs’ “SOS to
Success”, the “NEGOsolusyon” is a
customized package of business-
related services for businessmen
and aspiring entrepreneurs
through a series of activities, to
include: “NEGOcoach”, “NEGOlink”,
“NEGOmodels”, “NEGOpack”,
“NEGOtalks”, and “NEGOtech”.
These will all be held from
November 14 to 18 at The Atrium of
SM GenSan in General Santos City.
continue on page 6

DTI 12 BAGS CSC’s 2018 PRIME-HRM BRONZE

DTI- 12 RD Dorecita T. Delima, together with
AFMD staff Elaine Ferolino and Ellen Escalona
received the PRIME-HRM Bronze Award conferred
upon DTI 12 during the 3-day HR Symposium on
July 20, 2018 at SMX Convention Center, Davao
City.

The award was given to government offices

who have managed and implemented its human
resource management systems according to
documented processes, thereby achieving a
process-defined HRM in the four core HRM
systems under the Program to Institutionalize
Meritocracy and Excellence in Human Resource
Management (PRIME - HRM).
RD Dorecita T. Delima (center) receives the PRIME HRM Bronze Award together with Elaine
Ferolino (3rd from right) and Ellen Escalona (2nd from right) from the CSC Team continue on page 4

November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter

1
Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter November 2018

R12 Participating MSMES to the OTOP

Philippines ACT Session Phase 1
South Cotabato • Lamlifew Tribal Women
Association, Inc.
• AML Agri Ventures • Moling Tribal Association of
• Angel Kyle’s Food Products Farmers
• April Delight Food Products • United Maligang Farmers
• Avery Dolls Multi-Purpose Cooperative
• Bai Lyn’s Food Products • Vildex Bamboo Furniture
• Gevie Food Products
• Jolason Farmers Association General Santos City
• M.O’s Food Products
• RIC Tampakan • Daily Grace Enterprise
• Don Franco Products
North Cotabato • GEES Agri Coco Products
• Golden Bars Cooperative
• Bahay Buko Food Hauz • Hot Pockets Food Station
• Jo-Ann’s Bakeshop
OTOP Philippines A.C.T Session Helps Local • Koine Bakeshop
• LCG Farms • Lola Mading’s Food Products
• Mama Luisa Bakeshop
MSMEs Develop World-Class Products • Le Rosa Patisserie and Cafe
• LEB Pastries Delicacies and • Nature’s Harvest Asia
Food Products Agriventures Corp.
DTI 12 recently held the OTOP Philippines Assessment, to the demand side by providing physical and online channels, • Midsayap Mango Growers • SACC Food Products
Consultation and Triage (A.C.T) Phase 1 at Viajera, Koronadal as well as access to marketing platforms where OTOP products • Precious Angels
City last July 23 - 24, 2018. are displayed. • RWA’s Food Products Sultan Kudarat
• Vedel Farm
DTI 12 OIC-Division Chief Maria Theresa T. Chua gave an To realize these, the program has four phases: (1) ACT: • Velasco Souvenir Items and • CJ’s Buko Snackhauz
overview of the ACT session, and thanked the MSMEs or the Assessment, Consultation and Triage Sessions; (2) Service: Handicrafts • Jezel Bread Bakeshop
“OTOPreneurs” for their presence and interest to level up their Execution of Interventions and Assistance; (3) Showcase: Re- • Vida Nuts • JRI Food Products
business. Evaluation and Recognition; and , (4) Sell, Sell, Sell: Marketing • P3WRMYFood and Company
and Distribution. Sarangani Inc.
The two-day activity was graced by ASec. Demphna Du-
Naga, who shared her inspiring story as an entrepreneur, “Ask your customers for comments and suggestions so you • Business Resource Center Cotabato City
politician, mother, and public servant. She also discussed can get ideas on how to develop and improve your products,” • Center for Community
the different OTOP programs and projects that are being Mr. Flores advised. He also shared about the OTOP Philippines Transformation Ministry • Emy’s Food Products
undertaken by DTI, such as the OTOP Philippines Hub and Go Hub as an avenue to display and sell the products of MSMEs. Among Tribespeople • Esteros Balabak Weavers and
Lokal!, both of which which help MSMEs develop world-class AVPs were presented showcasing the inspiring stories Incoporated (CMATI) Handicrafts
products as well as improve their market exposure in the local of successful OTOPreneurs and how the OTOP programs • Ded Libun Di Lesang • Mhanie’s Food Products
and international markets. improved their products and served to uplift their business. Association • Rio Grande Pusaw Handicraft
• Glowbel Poblacion Association
About OTOP Philippines
A.C.T. Session Proper
OTOP National Program Manager Leon Flores cited how the
program was able to transform the products of MSMEs into Program Consultants Froilan Dy, Carmaela B. Alcantara, and
world-class and market-ready products. Kristine Joy N. Chua gave one-one-one business coaching and
consultation to the MSMEs on how they can further develop
“OTOP Philippines is government’s intervention to and improve their products in terms of product quality, design,
drive local economic growth. It is part of an ecosystem of and branding. A total of 46 MSMEs participated, broken down
entrepreneurship programs intended as a branding and as follows:South Cotabato (9); North Cotabato (11); Sarangani
marketing platform with product development as its primary (8); General Santos City (10); Sultan Kudarat (4); and, Cotabato
assistance,” Mr. Flores said. City (4).

He explained the two components of the program: (1) OTOP
NEXT GEN focuses on the supply side, with initiatives geared
toward product development in the areas of design, quality,
and volume, etc., and, (2) OTOP Philippines Hub which caters
NC Kidapawan Holds Investment
Opportunities for the Bamboo Industry
In line with their advocacy campaign, the Green Apo
Advocates, Inc. (GAAI) partnered with Negosyo Center-
Kidapawan City to present market opportunities for
bamboo in Brgys. Batang and Bacong, Tulunan. Held last
July 27, 2018, the activity was in line with the campaign
of GAAI for the planting of giant (AFOS) bamboo as these
far-flung barangays possess large idle and marginal
lands that can be used for growing bamboo.
Cotabato City Director Carlito Nuñez gave the Closing
Remarks, thanking the MSMEs for their active participation
and encouraging them to implement the recommendations
given by the consultants to scale up their businesses.
NC Malapatan Conducts Entrep
Mindsetting to MSMEs Prior To
P3 Loan Release
GAAI Pres. Servillo Enoc presented the profile of their
organization and the group’s purpose in coming to their
barangay. NC-Kidapawan City Senior Business Counsellor
Manuel Jayme provided an overview on “Economics
of Home-based E-Bamboo Processing”. He presented
the advantages of planting bamboo, which include the
following: delivering annual returns and high global
demand; low capital investment requirement; additional
income for the farmers; and, fast-growing, renewable On February 22, 2018, with the year just having started, the
source of food which are beneficial to the environment. Malapatan Multi-purpose Cooperative (MMPC), a conduit partner of
the Small Business Corporation (SB Corporation) released the Pondo
sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso (P3) loan amounting to P5,214,000.00 to
“The advantage of growing bamboo is you only plant 133 local micro-entrepreneurs, 92 of which were reloans. This was in line
once and harvest the rest of your lives by the time it with the national government’s initiative to help micro-entrepreneurs
matures after 3-4 years from planting. You could harvest access financing in order to boost their businesses.
6-12 times a year per pole depending on the number of
its shoots. You could construct your houses anytime you In partnership with Negosyo Center Malapatan of DTI-Sarangani,
the loan beneficiaries of Malapatan MPC were given a seminar on
want with such construction materials. And you could
Entrepreneurial Mind-setting to provide them with the right mindset,
eat its shoots”, S/BC Jayme said. as well as the inspiration and guidance to further their goals and help
them effectively manage their business. Participants were encouraged
He then presented the different varieties of bamboo to harness their creativity and to have a positive attitude so as to steer
in the Philippines and their uses, proper production their businesses toward the right direction.
technologies, as well as ways to sustain the development
Negosyo Center services were also presented to raise awareness on
of bamboo. (S/BC Manuel G. Jayme) the different services offered by the center for the MSMEs and aspiring
entrepreneurs of Malapatan. (BC Lovely Z. Ramos, NC-Malapatan)

2 November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter

Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter
BSP Recognizes DTI 12 Regional and Field Offices as Outstanding
Partners in its Public Information Campaigns
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) recognizes the
Department of Trade and Industry Regional Office 12 and two
of its Field Offices -- DTI Cotabato City and DTI General Santos
City -- as among the agency’s Outstanding Partners in its Public
Information Campaigns for the last couple of years.
Recently, DTI Cotabato City received its award during the
Awards Ceremony and Appreciation Lunch for BSP Stakeholders
Region 12 and ARMM held on July 24, 2018. DTI Cotabato City
OIC Carlito E. Nuñez received the award together with six other
outstanding partner agencies in different areas such as the
Cotabato City Central Pilot School - Coin Recirculation Region
12, Malabang National High School - Coin Recirculation ARMM,
China Banking Corporation Cotabato - Clean Note Policy,
DTI 12’s New Regional Director Pushes for the
Strengthening of Industry Clusters
Dorecita T. Delima, DTI 12’s new Regional Director, pushes
for the strengthening of industry clusters in the region. “DTI
12 is highly committed in developing our industries in the region,
increase exports, expand businesses and increase the number of
jobs in the sectors of manufacturing, trade and service,” says RD
Delima.
To contribute to this goal, DTI 12, being a catalyst and
driver of the economy, vowed to assist the agency industry
champions in the region in furthering the development
of industries that they are currently leading. These are:
1) Department of Agriculture (DA) for Rubber, Banana,
Mango, Coffee, Cacao, and Organic Agriculture; 2) Bureau of
Fisheries and Aquatic Resources for Bangus, Tuna, and White
Shrimps; 3) Department of Environment & Natural Resources
for Bamboo; 4) Department of Science and Technology
(DOST) for Muscovado; 5) Department of Information and
Communication Technology (DICT) for ICT ; 6) Mines and
Geo-sciences Bureau for Mining; 7) Department of Tourism for
Tourism; and, 8) Philippine Coconut Authority for Palm Oil
and Coconut.
Other programs and projects that DTI 12 is pushing to
contribute to this goal include the following:
MILES Program. Serving as DTI 12’s banner project is its
MILES Program which stands for Maximizing Investments
by Leveraging Enterprises in SOCCSKSARGEN. It aims to link
MSMEs to large companies by serving as suppliers of raw
materials, semi-processed materials, supply requirements, or
even finished products.
Knowledge Resource Center. RDC 12 Resolution No. 85,
titled “Supporting the Establishment of SOCCSKSARGEN
Knowledge Resource Center at the DTI 12 and the Creation
of an Inter-agency Technical Working Group to Assist in
November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter
Southern Christian College - Knowledge Resource Network,
Philippine Statistics Authority ARMM - Source of Information for
REDP and ABS CBN TV 5 Cotabato - Demonetization of the New
Design Series.
Focusing on the theme, “Reinforcing Partnerships, Defying New
Challenges,” the event took place at Pandan Ballroom B, Greenleaf
Hotel, General Santos City spearheaded by BSP Deputy Governor
for Corporate Services Ma. Cyd N. Tuaño-Amador who personally
handed the “Dynamic Balance, Philippine Eagle” trophy.
The activity was held in celebration of BSP’s 17th Anniversary.
Thru honoring its stakeholders, BSP aims to defy new challenges
in carrying out the BSP’s objectives of safeguarding price stability
Providing Timely, Accurate and Relevant Business-Related
Information to the Stakeholders” was approved. This aims to
gather and establish a database of information in support to
the 12 Industry Clusters of the region, such as the Regional
Export Development Plan.
R12 Corporate Giveaways. DTI 12 revives its Corporate
Giveaways featuring different packages of products like
tuna chicharon, jams, banana chips, coffee, spicy vinegar,
and crafts, etc., that are produced by MSMEs in the region. It
encourages big companies to buy these products instead of
imported goods as Christmas giveaways as their contribution
to the region’s economy.
Negosyo Centers. DTI 12 will continue to implement its
existing programs to help the industry clusters. The 52 Negosyo
Centers that are already in place in the municipalities and
cities will continue to provide business registration assistance,
business advisory services, and business information and
advocacy to existing and potential entrepreneurs.
KMME Program. The Kapatid Mentor Me aims to educate
and train MSMEs in effectively managing their businesses by
providing them free lectures and one-on-one coachings on
the different aspects of a business.
Aside from the above, DTI 12 also has the following:
• Shared Service Facilities (SSF) Program for
cooperatives and associations that are into processing /
manufacturing of goods;
• One Town One Product (OTOP) Next Generation, a
program for MSMEs that provide cliniquing/triage to
develop further the products of DTI-assisted MSMEs,
helping them to become export-ready;
• Brand Equity Development Program (BREDP) to
assist MSMEs in improving their brands thus develop
more popular brands for the region;
• “Go Lokal” Project to expand the MSMEs’ current
market, tapping malls and theme parks as display
areas for MSMEs that are “export-ready” to display their
products at no cost; and,
• Roads for Leveraging Linkages for Industry and
Trade (ROLL IT) Project to ensure that manufactured
goods will easily reach their market destinations.
“Aside from these, DTI 12 will continue to work hand in hand
with other agencies to help our local industries such as in the
conduct of the Treasures of Region 12 which showcases the
region’s export-ready products. With these, DTI 12 remains
committed to help propel our region’s economy to greater
heights,” says RD Delima.
November 2018
and promoting a healthy financial system as well as ensuring an
efficient payments and settlement system in the country.
BSP has been one of the partners of DTI Cotabato City since
2017 in conducting information advocacy thru its regular
activity entitled, “Consumer Education Initiatives” and “Negosyo
Center Goes to Barangay” (NCGB) which consists of four
topics, namely: Entrepreneurial Mind-setting, Business Name
Registration, Financing Forum, and Know Your Money. In 2017,
the activity served 804 potential and existing MSMEs in the nine
barangays of Cotabato City.
Thru DTI’s activities, Cotabato City consumers and
entrepreneurs were informed about the security features of
the new generation currencies and stopping the circulation
of fake money as they are directly exposed to the exchange
of monetary transactions -- making them wise and smart
consumers-entrepreneurs.
Meanwhile, the DTI-General Santos City Field Office also
received the same award for two consecutive years -- from 2016
to 2017 -- during the Awarding Ceremonies in time for BSP’s
15th and 16th Anniversaries held at Green Leaf Hotel in General
Santos City. DTI General Santos City was able to help BSP in its
advocacy campaign by including them as part of the menus
offered to potential MSME Clients through its Negosyo Center
goes to Barangay. This is an advocacy campaign to encourage
more entrepreneurs in the city and to motivate existing non-
registered entrepreneurs to register their businesses through
the Negosyo Center.
In 2016, the DTI Regional Office 12 also received a Plaque
of Recognition for its assistance in BSP’s Advocacy Initiatives
for its Coin Retrieval Campaign by giving the said agency an
avenue and an opportunity to disseminate relevant information
collaterals such as flyers during seminars for consumers.
S.U.P.E.R CONSUMER
NEWS UPDATE
Koronadal Student Tops DTI 12
Regional S.U.P.E.R Consumer
Quiz 2018
In line with the celebration of Consumer Welfare Month
with the theme, “Making Digital Marketplaces Fairer”, DTI 12
held a series of Provincial S.U.P.E.R Consumer Quiz shows in
the different cities and provinces in the region to promote
awareness of consumer laws. The top three (3) provincial
winners then competed in the Regional S.U.P.E.R. Consumer
Quiz Show held at City Mall-Marbel, Koronadal City on
October 30, 2018..
Sky D. Diaz of the Koronadal National Comprehensive High
School (KNCHS) in South Cotabato won 1st place with the
highest score among the 17 other contenders from Cotabato
City, Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato, South Cotabato, General
Santos City, and Sarangani. She received Php7,000 plus trophy.
Other winners of the regional quiz show were 2nd placer
Kathleen Joy Antonette P. Araquil of Notre Dame Sienna
School of Marbel (NDSSM), also from South Cotabato; and, 3rd
placer Henna Marie S. Barcebal from Cotabato City National
High School – Main Campus.
All the winning coaches received Php1,000.00 cash prize
each, namely: Emma D. Lumogdang (coach of 1st placer),
Merle M. Cabangal (coach of 2nd placer), and Fe N. Martin
(coach of 3rd placer).
Questions in the quiz bee revolved around Consumer Rights
and Responsibilities, Price Act, Standards Law, among others.
3
Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter
DTI North Cotabato Recognizes Outstanding
Business Counsellors with “Serbisyong Higit Pa Sa
Inaasahan” Award
To recognize the outstanding performance and service of
Business Counsellors (BCs) in North Cotabato, the DTI North
Cotabato Provincial Office led by Provincial Director Anthony P.
Bravo started the “North Cotabato Negosyo Center - Serbisyong
Higit Pa Sa Inaasahan Awards”.
From January - September 2018, a total of 10 Business
Counsellors in North Cotabato received the “North Cotabato
Negosyo Center - Serbisyong Higit Pa Sa Inaasahan” award.
This initiative aims to recognize and appreciate the multiple
LIST OF AWARDEES
MONTH AWARDS
JANUARY 2018 Outstanding Performance in Business Name
Registration
Outstanding Performance in Technical Writing
FEBRUARY 2018 Conscientiousness
MARCH 2018 M1 - Mindset Change Awards (Training/Seminars)
MAY 2018 M4 - Market Access
Conduct of 1st Cotabato Investment Conference
(COTA - ICON) 2018
JUNE 2018
Best in BMBE Registration Award
July - September 2018 M4 Award - Enabled Market Access
M3 - Mentoring Award #TrainerForAllSeasons
DTI Professionalism Award
DTI Resourcefulness Award
DTI Service Orientation Award
DTI Responsiveness Award
DTI 12 Holds Standards Stakeholders’ Meeting cum Briefing
One of the mandates of the Department of Trade and Industry is
to ensure the safety of consumers in the use and consumption of
products and services. These are the primary reasons why manda-
tory products are required to secure certification form the Bureau
of the Philippine Standards (BPS) before being sold to the mar-
ket which is mandated in the Product Standards Law. Mandatory
products are classified into Electrical and Electronic Products, Me-
chanical/Building and Construction Materials and Chemical and
Other Consumer Products and Systems, among others.
In Region 12, establishments that are selling the aforemen-
tioned product lines are increasing. In the course of monitoring
and enforcement of DTI Region 12 together with the Fair Trade
Enforcement Bureau (FTEB), violations were recorded. Violating
firms are sanctioned accordingly. To minimize/eradicate violations
of product standards law and to ensure safety among consumers,
it is deemed necessary to increase awareness among business es-
tablishments in the aforementioned industries. Thus, the DTI 12
held a Standards Stakeholders’ Meeting cum Briefing on Septem-
ber 12 at Phela Grande Hotel, General Santos City.
DTI 12 Regional Director Dorecita T. Delima expressed her
gratitude to the stakeholders for gracing the activity which could
improve awareness among the industry players. RD Delima also
thanked the Bureau of Philippine Standards for sending one of its
technical staff, Engr. Ariel Q. Deinla who could shed light on the
4 November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter
and unique skill sets, abilities, and talents of the BCs in delivering
DTI programs and services to MSMEs and other clients. Each
month brings a different award based on certain criteria set by
the provincial office and are not announced to the BCs to ensure
that they do not focus on only one aspect or function. The awards
come with a certificate, token, and a minute-long speech from
the awardees.
The following are the recipients of the Negosyo Center
Serbisyong Higit pa sa Inaasahan Award:
AWARDEES
BC Samsi-a Sarip with 296 BNs
BC Sharmela Pasion with 201 BNs
BC Kristina Ladja with 148 BNs
BC Hazel Shayne Ramil - for consolidating the 2017 An-
nual Negosyo Center Report
BC Hanie Lou Llupar
BC Junelyn Jaravata
BC Christine Queen Duenas
BC Reanne Claudine Laguna
BC Mark Nikko Manginsay
BC Fitz Gerald Anuta
S/BC Manuel G. Jayme
BC Reanne Claudine P. Laguna
BC Kristina S. Ladja
S/BC Manuel G. Jayme
BC Hanie Lou P. Llupar
BC Christine Queen L. Duenas
BC Junelyn M. Jaravata
BC Samsia Sarip - for the successful conduct of the 69th
Foundation Anniversary of Pikit
BC Cresinte Gumilao, Jr. - Successful conduct of the 57th
Foundation Anniversary of Libungan and KaTambolit
BC Adrian Clave Lariba - successful conduct of financial
literacy seminars to almost all NCs in North Cotabato
BC Christine Queen Duenas - Successful conduct of DTI-
TESDA STEP program in coordination with the 3rd Congressional
District Office of Cotabato
BC Hanie Lou Llupar - successful conduct of Product Photo-
shoot Round 2 (Hanap MSMEs and Products)
BC Fitz Gerald Anuta - successful conduct of Trade Promo
activities, product photoshoot etc.
BC Jacob Adaptar of NC Banisilan
BC Mark Nikko Manginsay of NC Kabacan
implementation of product standards law. RD Delima stressed the
importance of products to consumers as well as to the business
establishments. Compliance to the mandate of the Product Stand-
ards Law would mean a safer environment for consumers and less
cost among the industry players as sanctions and penalties are
avoided.
DTI 12 Consumer Protection Division DC Mary Ann M. Morales
gave the rationale of the activity and brief introduction of the
speaker, Mr. Engr. Ariel Q. Deinla. DC Morales mentioned that the
activity was called for to increase awareness among the industry
players. She also emphasized that it was an opportunity for the
importers, traders, wholesalers and retailers to raise questions
to BPS on areas which cannot be addressed right away by DTI 12
Field Offices. Specifically on documentary requirements in secur-
ing ICC, PS, product testing, among others.
Topics discussed by the resource speaker Engr. Ariel Q. Deina in-
cludes the Salient Features of DAO 17-06 s. of 2017 (New Rules and
Regulations concerning the Mandatory Certification of Portland
Cement and Blended Hydraulic Cement Pozzolan) and the Salient
Features of DAO 2 s. of 2007 (Defining the Responsibilities and Li-
abilities of Manufacturers, Importers, Traders, Wholesalers, Distrib-
utors, Retailers, Service Providers ad or their Agents, with regard
to Product/Services covered by Philippine Standard Certification
Mark Schemes and Prescribing Penalties for violation thereof ).
November 2018
19th Lubi-Lubi Festival
Highlights the Conduct of
the 3rd Tour Town Glan
Glan is located on the western coast of Sarangani Province
and acknowledged as the oldest town in the region. It is
rich in culture, with its own distinctly unique heritage. This
is complemented by the richness and diversity of its natural
resources, both on land and in sea -- making Glan a desired
location for tourists, with its long stretches of white sand
beaches, and vast areas planted to coconuts.
To celebrate this, the Local Government Unit of Glan held its
19th Lubi-Lubi Festival as well as the town’s 104th Foundation
Anniversary on October 01-08, 2018 with the theme “Ciento
Cuatro Katuig: Kaagi sa Coloña Nueve“.
One of the festival’s most popular events is the Tour Town
Glan Bazaar or the Lubi-Lubi Festival, which is participated by all
of the 31 barangays. It features local products utilizing coconut
as the raw material, as well as prime tourist destinations in the
area. Products include cabcab, tinagtag, special buko pie,
coco-hut, coco candy and handicrafts. Popular tourist spots
include the Gumasa white sand beaches, historical artifacts
displayed at old ancestral houses, such as the Don Juan Resort
in Brgy. Lago, and a lot more.
Total sales generated reached Php 407, 856.25, more than
double the sales of the previous year. Special awards were
given, namely: Most Promising Food Product, Most Promising
Non-food Product, and Best Booth Award. Adjudged as winners
were: Brgy. Poblacion for its Buko Pie (Food); Brgy. Gumasa
for its Chandelier made from coconut shells (Non-food); and,
Brgy. Poblacion (Best Booth) for its mini-house adorned with
coconut embellishments. The designs for all the participating
booths were a collaborative effort of local barangay officials
and the DepEd teachers.
Present during the Opening Ceremony were Glan Vice
Mayor Vivien B. Yap; Municipal Administrator and First Lady
Dr. Candelaria Yap, DTI-12 OIC-Regional Director Dorecita T.
Delima, DTI-Sarangani OIC Provincial Director Ethel Laksmi L.
Gumana, DOT-12 Tourism Operations Officer Jelly Bee Baay,
and Municipal Tourism Officer Lodar Dagoy-Escobillo.
The major cooperators for the event are the Local
Government Unit (LGU) of Glan headed by the Municipal
Tourism Office, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) -
Sarangani Provincial Office, the Department of Tourism (DOT)
12, Department of Education (DepEd) 12, Philippine Coconut
Authority (PCA) 12, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
(BFAR) 12, local barangay officials, as well as the local schools,
among others. (Marjorie T. Repol, NC-Glan).
DTI 12’s bags CSC’s .......... from page 1
The 2018 Public Sector HR Symposium
The 2018 Public Sector HR Symposium with this year’s theme,
“Achieving Breakthrough Results through Strategic HR” was
held on July 18 - 20, 2018 at SMX Convention Center, Davao
City. The symposium was the 6th held by the Civil Service
Commission, with the support of the Australian Government,
gathering 2,400 HR practitioners from all over the country for
a learning-filled 3-day meet.
Building on the past symposia which focused on creating
change and transformation in the gains of civil service, this
year’s event highlighted concepts, perspectives, and insights
in achieving breakthrough results that impact agency
operations and delivery of excellent public service. It also
showcased and benchmarked best practices and experiences
of progressive organizations in achieving and pursuing
continuous improvements. The sessions placed emphasis on
the need to effectively measure desired results and monitor
and evaluate accomplishments at various levels.
Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter November 2018
R12 KMME Mentee-Graduates .......... from page 1

LIST OF GRADUATES
PROVINCE 2016 2017 2018

1. Dr. Alfred’s Essentials, Inc.
NORTH COTABATO 2. RIC Producer Coop/KERA
3. Kennitz Food Products
4. SANVICOPA/ Precious Angels
Food Products
5. LEB Pastries, Delicacies & Food
Products
6. Vida Nuts
7. AJB Furniture & Glass Supply
8. Don Bosco MPC
9. Jarod’s Arts and Crafts
10. Teresa’s Homemade Delicacies
11. CRS Choco Farm
12. Velasco Souvenir Items and
Handicrafts;
13. Ethical Harvest-Goat’s Milk
14. Bahay Buko Food Hauz
15. KUVI Integrated Farm
16. Alcor Farm
17. Midsayap Mango Growers
Association, Inc
18. Panyang Bakeshop
19. Lo and La’s Bakeshop
20. Josh’s Greaseless Peanuts
1. Rangayen Vegetable
Grower Association
2. Southern Christian
College
3. Jaum’s Agri-eco Farm
4. RGL Premier Foods
Enterprise
5. Nimfa’s Food Product
6. Candidier Processed
Products
7. ET Pauya Foods
8. K-Mart Convinience Store
9. Ana’s Egg Production
10. Arabis Foodline
11. Le Rosa Patisserie and
Café
12. MCV Farm
13. Deeking’s Food Products

1. Ryle’s Enterprise
SULTAN KUDARAT 2. Isulan Free Farmers Biofarming
Producers Coop.
3. GFA Marketing
4. Crafts Arts Trinkets
5. BAGEMPCO
6. AILLESH JADE
7. Danieliza Cacao Products
8. Lab’s Old Timer Lapaz Batchoy
9. Coco Food Products
10. AG Fruit Farm
11. Lala Food Products
12. KALIPI
13. Gallega Marketing
14. Noque Food Products
15. Kanz Food Product
16. La Veronica Food Products
17. 4F Food Products
18. Sarah General Merchandise
19. Sophia’s Pizza
20. Kether Kakanin ATBP. 1. Darling’s Food Product 9. Danly Meddon
21. Anne’s Healthy Food Product 2. L’avenier Food & Herbal Enterprise
22. Tapz Food Product Product 10. Herman’s Sugarmill
23. Tacurong Terminal Vendors 3. Salinas Bread Tops 11. Palimbang
Association (TATVA) 4. PMTZ Marketing Entrepreneurs and
24. Isla Verde Turmeric & Salabat 5. Jezel’s Bakeshoppe Agrarian Reform
25. Gallano Handtouch Craft 6. Barne”s Place Beneficiaries
26. Elaine’s Bakeshop 7. JEA Juicery Cooperative (PEARBCO)
8. Acekid Print Arts &
General Merchandise

1. Pacmimay Kalamayhati
SARANGANI 1. PEKWASS Association
2. J& G Food Products
2. Winds of Lomuyon
3. Sarangani Seaweeds Producers Coop 3. Jade Faith Handicrafts
4. Creasions Handicraft 4. Dhels Food
5. Casa Dolores 5. United Maligang Farmers
MultiPurpose Cooperative
6. Awards Diversified Product
7. KimKim Bakeshoppe and
Refreshment and Catering
Services
8. CG Banana Crackers
9. Lamlifew Tribal Women
Association
10. Patahian ni Bhebhe
11. Malapatan Food Processors
Association
12. Cereno’s Furniture
13. Kalilintad Foods
14. Phailyn’s Food 1. Villdex Bamboo 8. GML Handicrafts &
15. Jeanbeth Studio and Dress Shop Furnitures Souvenir Display Center
16. Ded Libon de Lasang Mat 2. Dalangdang Creek Farms 9. BRC Maitum Self-help
Weaving 3. Riverside TG Farm Group Association
17. Sarangani Agrarian Reform 4. Meloussa Pasalubong/ 10. Hugpong sa Kababayen
Beneficiaries Cooperative JBD Beach Resort an ug Kalalakihan
18. 18. Arlot’s Bakeshoppe and 5. BelMar Beach Resort sa Mahayag para sa
Alamang 6. Foundy Cel Foods Kalambuan
19. 19. JOPPEC’s Handicraft 7. Dodo Bamboo Crafts

SOUTH COTABATO 1. Lola Aling’s Agri Products
2. Scoops Garden Ice Cream (Surallah)
3. Marche Herbal Food Products
4. Eden’s Flowers
1. Bailyn’s Food Product
2. T’boli Agrarian Reform Womens
Association (TARWA)
3. JNB Diversified Food Industries
4. Jigian’s Food Products
5. Kenobi Fish Product
6. April Delight Food Products
7. Ian’s Snack Haus
8. Centrala Alternative Medicine Pro-
ducers Cooperative (CAMPC)
9. Surallah Entrepreneurs Multi-
purpose cooperative (SURE MPC)
10. South Valley Foods
11. Tupi Coffee Growers Association Inc.
(TUCOGAI)
12. JMKKK Food Products
13. Sweet Plate Cakes and Pastries
14. DJ Frosty Ice Cream
15. Jodan’s Bakeshop
16. Melgies Food Products
17. Cooperative of Women in Health and
Development (COWHED)
18. Craftdoc Rattan Furnitures
19. Klowil Agricultutal Enterprise Multi-
purpose Cooperative (KLOWIL MPC)
20. Renz Bignayan Pottery
21. abellano Cutflowers and Foliages
22. Highland Sweet Valley Ent
23. Habakkuk Agri-Marketing
1. Je-ans Bakeshoppe
2. Virgo Agri Marketing
3. Mccoys Rib Joint
4. Paseo Good Food
5. Danlag Women’s Association
6. Peniel Prutas at Gulay
7. Paseo De Morales Foods & Eco Park
8. Gunu Gel Hagud Spa
9. Vermiflora Farm

COTABATO CITY 1. Monnie’s Food Haus 9. Kok’s Fried Chicken 17. Nene Ubag’s Cakes, Pastries 1. NRE Food Product Association
2. Yasmin Salabat 10. Prince CJ Food Products and Catering Services 2. EZR Glass and Aluminum 11. Durado’s Dessert and
3. Pogan’s Food Product 11. Kalanganan Fishpond Owners 18. Monnie’s Food Haus 3. Emy’s Food Products Relyenong Bangus
4. Nene Ubag’s Cakes, Pastries and Workers Multi-purpose 19. Nishran’s Food Products and 4. Yams Premium Ice Candy
and Catering Service Cooperative Catering Services 5. New Spider Tailoring
5. ZKR Marketing 12. Tunina’s Food Products 6. Gig Sizzling Haus
6. Moving Forward Towards 13. MSR Enterprises 7. Tesmet Travel and Tours
Quality Life 14. Picante Pizza, Pasta and More 8. Bing Catering Services
7. Christian-Muslim Association 15. Yasmin Salabat 9. J & G Repair Shop
8. Rhino’s Noodles 16. Pogan’s Food Product 10. Cotabato Brassware

GENERAL SANTOS CITY
1. GPGC Trading (Apopong)
2. Sugian Food Products
3. PWD Gensan MPC
4. RJH Food Products
5. Daily Grace Enterprise
6. RSA Fishermen
1. Ajello’s Frozen Delight
2. Mommy’s Health Drink
3. SOCCSARGEN Peace Network,
Inc.
4. Kayamanan Ni Juan
5. TNBC Designs and Prints
6. TGAC Foods
7. Dolores Food Products
8. Immanuel Tuna Traders
9. Labay Enterprises
10. Lola Mading’s Food Products
11. Isabelle Foods
12. SACC Food Products
13. Kusina Victoria
14. Lanton-Espina Chrislam
Parents Association
15. Gensan Gardeners Coop
16. Hotpockets Empanaditas
17. Jem’s Grill Native Chicken &
Seafood Restaurant
18. Deo’s Buko Cream 1. Nature’s Harvest Asia
19. MB Printmax Digital Printing Ventures Corp.
20. Creativesphere Studios 2. Dana Foods
21. Lorañas Happy Chicken 3. Eurico Multi-Trade
22. Bijou Box Jewelry Repair Shop 4. Kuya Ped’s Veggie
23. CG Foods Snacks
5. JRV Cafe Frio
6. MaiPao Siomai and
Siopao House
7. MAMRE Marketing
Cooperative
8. Zger Delicacies
9. Sugar and Spice Nail
Lounge and Fish Spa
10. Namaskar Ji Restaurant
11. Golden Bask
12. Eight Ounce Prints
Enterprises

Kayamanan ni Juan’s Artistry and Craftsmanship
Adds Grandeur to Region 12’s Treasures
Craftsmanship is an inherent talent of local artist
Bengie Antido, who started his business, Kayamanan ni
Juan Trading. His creative mind is mirrored in each of the
unique fashion accessories, novelty items, souvenirs, and
handicrafts that he designs. Making use of indigenous
materials, he puts a touch of Filipino heritage and culture
in his export-quality art pieces.
“Each of our creations are treasures showing our Filipino
artist’s craftsmanship - that’s why we call it “Kayamanan
ni Juan. We conceptualize and make our own signature
designs. That’s why it’s a cut above the rest,” said Mr.
Antido.
Learning about the services of the DTI and Negosyo
Center, Antido was able to avail of the free seminars given
by Negosyo Center - GenSan. Through DTI, he was able to
join various trade fairs such as Manila FAME and Treasures
of SOCCSKSARGEN. These trade fairs gave his products
more market exposure and linkages, enabling him to link
up with institutional buyers.
In 2017, he was among the Kapatid Mentor ME mentee
graduates of General Santos City. “Through the KMME, I
was able to learn how to develop and market my products
as well as how to handle the finances of my business,” he
said.
His market has now expanded even beyond Mindanao,
reaching as far as Visayas and Luzon. He also recently
opened his own Pasalubong Center/Boutique located
at Columbus Plaza Hotel in General Santos City. His
products are also displayed in Ayala Malls, KCC - General
Santos City, Pasalubong Center at SM General Santos
City, and Robinsons Supermarket Gensan. In the near
future, he plans to open distribution outlets in major malls
nationwide.
With a starting capital of Php 500 back in 2013, Kayaman
ni Juan now has an asset size of around P800k with a
monthly income ranging from Php 60, 000 - Php 80, 000.
Already, he has received several awards: BPI Sinag
Entrepreneur (2016) clinching the Top 33 place; People’s
Choice Award for the Wearables and Homestyle Category
during the Treasures of SOCCSKSARGEN (2016); finalist for
“Emerging Entrepreneurs of the year” during the Yaman Ng
Gensan (2015) and “Injap Sia Young Entrepreneur Award”
finalist given by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and
Industry (PCCI).
Antido built Kayamanan Ni Juan not as a self-serving
business, but as a social enterprise, which provides income
and livelihood to marginalized communities. Currently, he
is outsourcing some of his raw materials from Indigenous
Peoples (IP) communities at Upper Labay, General Santos
City; fishermen dependents of Calumpang, Gen. Santos
City; female inmates of the BJMP - Gen. Santos City; an
association of PWDs in Gensan; as well as from Cebu
and Bohol. “Part of our mission and advocacy is to help
underprivileged communities in our own little way,” said
Antido. (BC Katrina Coloso)
Sarangani Project MILES Hits the
Ground Running
The DTI 12 Project MILES has taken
off in Sarangani with the initial delivery
of bamboo poles by the Moling Tribal
Association of Farmers (MTAF) of Sitio
Moling, Alegria, from the municipality
of Alabel to Sun Foods Agri-Ventures
(SUNVI), a banana plantation in
Maribulan of the same town.
MTAF has delivered an initial 300
pieces of bamboo poles on October 18
to SUNVI which resulted to a revenue
amounting to PhP 27,000 from the
delivery.
“With this delivery, MILES is now up and running in Sarangani. MTAF is expected to deliver
more as SUNVI requires a total of 2,000 poles under this arrangement,”OIC-Provincial Director
Ethel Laksmi L. Gumana said.
The MILES Program, which stands for Maximizing Investments to Leverage Enterprises in
SOCSKSARGEN, is a new initiative of DTI 12 to promote inclusive business by targeting a specific
segment of the population -- the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) -- by turning
them into a dynamic consumer market with diverse new sources of supply.
“The MILES is a market-driven strategy which links our MSMEs in Region 12 with big
companies -- the former to serve as input supplier for the raw materials, semi-processed
products, ancillary materials/products, and other logistics, as well as support services that the
latter needs to manufacture their final products,” she explained.
The program requires DTI to communicate with big companies, gather their profiles
particularly their required raw materials or semi-processed raw materials, and share the
information to potential suppliers from among the DTI-assisted MSMEs.
Data from the Business Development Division BDD) of DTI Sarangani showed that three big
companies were profiled, and their requirements shared to potential suppliers, the MSMEs. A
number of business matching meetings and site visits were also conducted.
“Based on our data, if these marketing arrangements materialize, the estimated potential
revenue from the transactions will reach around PhP 11.34 million per month. We therefore
hope to build from this initial milestone, so as to sustain the MILES Program and keep it up and
running,” OIC-PD Gumana said.

November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter

5
Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter
South Cotabato NCs Hold Simultaneous
Consumer Education and Advocacy Fora
Province-wide
In connection with the celebration of World
Consumer Day, all of the Negosyo Centers in
South Cotabato simultaneously conducted
Consumer Education and Advocacy Forum in
their respective Negosyo Centers on March
15, 2018. Said activities were conducted in the
Negosyo Centers and at designated areas in the
Municipal Buildings.
The simultaneous activities were attended
by MSMEs and aspiring entrepreneurs in their
respective municipalities and locations, namely:
Polomolok, Tupi, Sto.Nino, Norala, Banga,
Tampakan, Koronadal City-NDMU, Surallah, Lake
Treasures of Region 12 2018 .......... from page
1 November 14 to 18 at the Atrium of SM GenSan.
NEGOcoach
In “NEGOcoach”, the public can avail of free one-
on-one business coaching sessions from business
experts and mentors for them to acquire business
knowledge and ideas, as well as technical know-
how on how to properly manage an enterprise.
NEGOlink
“NEGOlink” is a platform for MSMEs and local
suppliers of raw materials, semi-processed and
ancillary products and other support services to
meet with institutional buyers by tapping the
procurement requirements of buyers or companies
within and outside Region 12 through the DTIs’
Maximizing Investments by Leveraging Enterprises
in SOCCSKSARGEN or the MILES program. This will
also be a venue for MSMEs to link with financing
institutions for their capitalization and other
financing needs.
There will also be a Business Forum dubbed as
‘B2B for the Miles Project” which will be held on
November 14 from 1PM to 5PM where companies
will share their value propositions, business models,
and present their procurement and manufacturing
requirements for possible supply arrangements
with the region’s MSMEs.
NEGOmodels
The “NEGOmodels” is ideal for those who are
looking for a new business or have plans to expand
their existing businesses as it will feature various
business models such as franchising, direct selling,
distributorship, and online selling.
NEGOpack
”NEGOpack” is an innovative strategy to link
MSMEs to industry experts where they can find
the best deals for their packaging needs as well
as improve the packaging and labeling of their
products. By having improved packaging and
labeling, MSMEs can build their market presence,
stand out from the pack, and generate improved
sales and profit.
NEGOtalks
“NEGOtalks” will feature experts in various
fields who will share their knowledge on how to
stay in business and maximize their potentials for
innovation and growth.
In partnership with the Overseas Workers
Welfare Administration (OWWA, Department
of Science and Technology (DOST), Agricultural
Training Institute (ATI) and the Department of
6 November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter
Sebu, T’boli, Koronadal City LGU, and Tantangan.
Topics discussed were the following: Consumer
Laws, Consumer Rights and Responsibilities,
Handling Consumer Complaints, Product and
Service Warranty, No Return No Exchange, and
Senior Citizen’s 5% Discount on Basic Necessities
and Prime Commodities.
In addition, the Business Counsellors
discussed how business establishments can set
up Consumer Welfare Desks (CWD) to businesses
for them to address consumer concerns and
complaints thus building good customer
Tourism (DOT), learning sessions will be held from
These are as follows:
November 14 - 17 (Day 1 to Day 4)
• Advertising, Direct Selling, Marketing,
Motivation and Lifestyle - 5: 30PM - 7PM
November 15 (Day 2)
• “Licensing, Accreditation & Other Trade
and Industry Laws” (10AM - 12N)
• “How To Invest In The Right Franchise” -
(1PM - 3PM)
• “BOS for Momshies and Beshies: How to
Start A Laundry Business” (3 PM - 5 PM)
November 16 Day 3)
• DOST Training on Halal Services, Shelf Life
Determination and Packaging & Labelling
for MSMEs” (10AM - 5PM)
• “Briefing on Maximizing FTAs for Regional
Exports” (10AM - 12NN)
• “Enabling a Competitive Start-Up
Ecosystem” (PM - 5PM)
November 17 (Day 4)
• DOT Training on Edible Landscaping
(10AM - 3PM)
• DOT Seminar on Customer Service and
Marketing Relations (3PM - 5PM)
November 18 (Day 5)
• “ATI Training on Hydrophonics” (9:30AM -
12NN)
• “Online Home-based Business
Opportunity through Virtual Assistance”
(1PM - 3PM)
NEGOtech
In “NEGOtech”, a wide array of techno-based
business solutions as well as an exhibit of
machinery and equipment will be showcased to
help streamline operational processes in producing
excellent products and services.
Company offerings include Coffee Essentials,
Espresso Machines and Cleaners, Bar Materials and
other Equipment, Bakery System and Automated
Lines, Meat, Vegetable, Powder and Liquid Systems,
Food Service, Packaging Solution, Blast Chilling
& Freezing, Specialized & Branded Machines,
Bakeware, and many more!
Trabaho Negosyo Kabuhayan (TNK) Jobs and
Business Fair
Over 1,000 job opportunities are up for grabs in
the TNK Jobs and Business Fair 2018 on November
15, 2018 at SM City General Santos Trade Hall. Held
in partnership with the Department of Labor and
Employment (DOLE), the TNK is participated by
more than 100 companies who are urgently hiring
this season.
relations.
Handling Consumer Complaints
On Handling Complaints, the BCs shared how
business establishments can effectively handle
consumer concerns and complaints. The BCs
advised the following to MSMEs: (1) listen to
their customers and take note on the details of
their complaint; (2) investigate the causes of the
complaint; (3) apologize and address the issue
or concern by offering relevant solutions; (4) try
to reach an agreement; and, (5) thank the client
for bringing the complaint to their attention.
In addition, BCs advised them to tell their
customers when and how the complaint will be
resolved. It is also advisable that businesses have
a Customer Relations Policy which employees
abide to and customers know about, and set up
a CWD where customers can air their concerns
and/or file complaints.
After the lecture, participants shared their
best practices and techniques in dealing
with and resolving customer complaints and
recommendations. MSMEs eyeing the DTI
Bagwis Seal must also be compliant to the Fair
Trade Laws. On Product Labeling, he also discussed the
Consumer Laws
On Consumer Laws, DTI-South Cotabato
OIC-Division Chief of the Consumer Protection
Division Elbert G. Capecio tackled the following
topics: (1) RA# 7394 or the Consumer Act; (2) RA#
There will also be an Entrepreneurship Seminar
and Business Planning Workshop for Overseas
Filipino Workers (OFWs) held in partnership with
the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration
(OWWA) at the Meeting Room of SM City GenSan.
Negosyo Center Serbisyo Sa Barangay
Stakeholder Summit
The Negosyo Center Serbisyo sa Barangay
Stakeholders’ Summit, which will be held on
November 14, 2018 at SM City GenSan, gathers
Local Chief Executives including Provincial
Governors, Municipal/City Mayors and Punong
Barangays. A Memorandum of Understanding
will be formalized among the Department of the
Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department
of Agriculture (DA), Department of Labor and
Employment (DOLE), Department of Science and
Technology (DOST), and Technical Education and
Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
The said Summit is a strategy to attain full
engagement of barangay local government units
and government agencies for the implementation
of the Negosyo Center Serbisyo Sa Barangay (NC
SSB) Project.
The said project aims to bring government
services closer to the people, specifically to the
barangay level. Further, it intends to: (1) forge
stronger ties with the LGUs and/or Barangays; (2)
develop new MSMEs and create jobs; (3) increase
Business Names and Barangay Micro Business
Enterprise (BMBEs) registered; (4) establish/expand
a database for Registered Businesses; and, (5)
provide services such as product development,
access to market, access to finance, and conduct
technology transfer and production and
managerial trainings in the grassroots level.
Motivational speaker and PCE Mentor
Henry Tenedero will talk about Entrepreneurial
Mindsetting. This will be followed by a presentation
on the NC SSB by DTI 12 RD Dorecita T. Delima.
ASec. Demphna Du-Naga will also be gracing the
Summit and giving her message of support. Next
is the discussion of government services by the
panelists composed of Dir. Jerry Clavesillas from
DTI-BSMED, DILG RD Reynaldo Bungubung, DOST
RD Dr. Zenaida Laidan, DA RD Milagros Casis,
TESDA RD Rafael Abrogar II, and DOLE RD Sisinio
Cano. This will be followed by the the signing of
the Memorandum of Understanding will follow led
by RD Dorecita T. Delima along with the Regional
Directors of partner government agencies, League
of Municipal and City Mayors, and Presidents of the
Liga ng mga Barangay.
The Regional CMCI Forum and Awarding
Ceremony will then follow.
Regional CMCI Forum and Awarding Ceremony
2018
November 2018
7581 or the Price Act; (3) Price Tag Law; (4) RA#
3883 or the Business Name Law; (5) RA# 4109 or
the Product Standards Law; and, (6) Repair Shop
Accreditation and Sales Promotion.
The objectives of the Consumer Act were
discussed, primary of which is the protection
of consumers against hazards to health and
safety and against deceptive, unfair, and
unconscionable sales act and practices. This
includes the information and education
initiatives to facilitate sound choice and
proper exercise of rights by consumers as well
as provision of adequate rights and means
of redress and involvement of consumer
representatives in the formation of social and
economic policies.
OIC-DC Capecio discussed about the
provisions of the Consumer Act such as the
minimum labeling requirements, additional
labeling requirements, health and safety
(for food, hazardous substances, cosmetics,
electrical, cigarettes), PS Marks, Price Tags, Label
Info (i.e., brand, ingredients, manufacturer, etc.),
Prices, Safety and Quality Marks, and Warranties.
minimum labelling requirements, in particular:
(1) correct and registered trade/business name/
trademark, (2) complete business address, (3)
general make or ingredients of the product, (4)
net quantity of contents (weight or measure),
and (5) country of manufacture if product is
imported or else business name and address.
On November 14, there will be a Regional
CMCI Forum and Awarding Ceremony 2018 at
the SM Meeting Room (Forum) and SM Trade Hall
(Awarding Ceremony). The said event is a venue to
recognize the region’s exemplary LGUs who have
ranked high in the 2018 Cities and Municipalities
Competitiveness Index (CMCI) based on the four
(4) pillars of competitiveness, namely: Economic
Dynamism, Government Efficiency, Infrastructure
and Resiliency.
Topic on “Impact of Ease of Doing Business
to LGUs’ Competitiveness” will be discussed. It
will be followed by PCCI Regional Governor for
Southwestern Mindanao and RC3 Private Sector
Co-Chair Mr. Raymund K. Salangsang who will
give an overview of the CMCI and the awarding
ceremony.
Next is the awarding of Plaques of Citation
for Top Ranking and Most Improved LGUs in the
region led by DTI CB USec. Rowel S. Barba and DILG
RD Reynaldo Bungubung. To inspire the LGUs to
become more competitive, a representative from
LGU-Cotabato will talk about their innovative
approaches and how they rose up to the CMCI
challenge.
MSME Regional Congress 2018
Spearheaded by DTI, the SMED Council in R12
and LGU-Gensan, the MSME Regional Congress
will be a gathering of MSMEs, policy-makers, and
development partners in the region to discuss
how to further maximize the potential of MSMEs
as drivers of economic growth. It will be held on
November 15 at KCC Convention Center in General
Santos City.
Negosyo Center Desk
A Negosyo Center Desk will be stationed at the
SM City GenSan Atrium manned by R12 Business
Counsellors who will provide free business
counselling and assistance such as business
conceptualization and feasibility, financing,
management, capability-building, human
resources, marketing, as well as promote ease of
doing business and facilitate access to government
services.
S.U.P.E.R Consumer Booth
The S.U.P.E.R Consumer Booth will also be open
to accept any consumer queries, complaints and
suggestions. The S.U.P.E.R (Sustained, Upbeat,
Protected, Empowered, and Responsible)
Consumer is DTI 12’s advocacy to instill in the minds
of consumers their rights and responsibilities,
making them more vigilant and protected from
market abuse thereby make them become
“Matalino, Mapanuri, at Malayang mga Mamimili”.
Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter
NC Glan Conducts Series
of Trainings for the 3rd
TourTown Glan Festival
In celebration of the 3rd TourTown Glan, Negosyo Center
Glan conducted a series of activities geared towards furthering
enterprise creation and development in the municipality;
and with it, enabling the local MSMEs to become more
knowledgeable about doing business, and more aware of the
different business opportunities that they can pursue. This
includes the conduct of three activities -- Enterprise Advocacy
Seminar, Financing Forum, and a skills training on Balloon
Modelling Arrangement for Fun and Profit.
For Day 1 (October 03, 2018), NC Glan conducted a Financial
Symposium with Resource Speakers from two financing
institutions operating in the area: Radiowealth Finance
Corporation and the Bansalan Credit Cooperative.
A total of 44 potential and existing MSMEs attended the
½ day symposium, which included a brief presentation of
Negosyo Center Services, and a thorough discussion of the
financing programs that are being offered. One-on-one tables
for consultation were also provided for those who have further
queries on how to avail of loans. Information collaterals such
as flyers were then distributed.
For Day 2 (October 04, 2018), a seminar on Packaging and
Labelling was conducted to further develop local products
that have greater impact in terms of marketing, as well as
ensure product quality for the safety of the consumers.
Resource Speakers include Ms. Arianne Coronado of MAPI
Packaging Depot and Senior BC Sheila May Perez-Carbajal. Ms.
Coronado presented the different packaging materials that
they can provide to the local MSMEs, as well as distributed
promo collaterals such as flyers containing MAPI products. S/
BC Carbajal discussed the importance of packaging and the
information that should be contained in product labels. A total
of 28 participants attended from the different barangays.
For Day 3 (October 06, 2018), NC Glan conducted a Skills
Training on Balloon Modelling Arrangement for Fun and Profit.
It was participated by 28 local potential MSMEs such as students
and teachers of Brgy. Gumasa and Poblacion. Geneveve
Baquireza, a freelance artist and Resource Speaker for the
said skills training, discussed the impact of balloon modelling
business to individuals while doing the demonstration.
Said training was done given the growing demand for party
recreations and decorations and the lack of a service provider
in the municipality. More than 10 standby balloons were
created as output of the activity. These were then displayed
during the Closing Ceremony of the TourTown Glan Bazaar
and the Opening Ceremony of the Consumer Welfare Month
(BC Marjorie T. Repol, NC-Glan).
November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter
November 2018
NC Malapatan Expands Reach to Serve MSMEs in Far-
flung Barangays
Negosyo Center Malapatan visited Brgy. Sapu Masla last
April 25, 2018 through the conduct of Negosyo Center
Malapatan STRIDEs (Surging Trade and Industry Development
towards Economic Empowerment), a one-day activity which
aims to promote Negosyo Center and the services it offers
to the MSMEs in the municipality. Through this, a total of 35
existing and potential micro-entrepreneurs, mostly sari-sari
store owners, were able to increase their awareness about
the center, thus enable them to access its services.
These entrepreneurs were taught about Cash Management
and provided with valuable tips on how to properly manage
a sari-sari store. To inform them of financing options,
a representative from the Malapatan Multi-purpose
Cooperative (MMPC), Ms. Elsa Palawan, informed the
participants about the Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso
program (P3) of the government, through the Small Business
Corporation, an attached agency of the DTI which provides a financing window with very low interest rates. The P3 scheme such
as the computation of amortization and breakdowns were presented and explained to the MSMEs..
The participants expressed their appreciation for the activity, especially with the new information on the availability of financing
assistance for MSMEs. (BC Lovely Z. Ramos, NC-Malapatan)
DTI Sarangani Celebrates Consumer Welfare Month 2018 with a Blast
members such as the Land Transportation Office (LTO)-
Sarangani, National Food Authority (NFA), Department of
Education (DepEd) through the Alabel National Science
High School, Technical Education and Skills Development
Authority (TESDA), and Alabel Consumer Welfare
Association, Inc., (ACWAI), among others.
This was followed with the hosting of the Monday
Flag Ceremony, and the conduct of the 14th Provincial
S.U.P.E.R Consumer Quiz Bee and the 1st Provincial Poster
Making Contest in partnership with DepEd. Free Massage
Service and Haircut were also conducted in cooperation
with TESDA. NFA also conducted a Rice Retailing within
the Capitol grounds, as well as offered free arrozcaldo for
October having been declared as Consumer Welfare all during the Opening Program.
Month pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 1098
dated September 28, 1997 by Pres. Fidel V. Ramos, the DTI Thereafter, on October 12, 2018, two fora on
Sarangani Provincial Office spearheaded the month-long Consumerism were conducted at James L. Chiongbian
celebration in the province of Sarangani with a series of National Trade School in Kiamba and at Colon National
activities lined up to further raise consumer awareness High School in Maasim, participated by almost 400 high
among the public. school students.
With the theme, “Making Digital Market Places Fairer”, DTI An Enforcement/Inspection of weighing scales in the
partnered with the Sarangani Provincial Consumer Welfare Public Market of Maasim was also done on October 19,
Council (SPCWC) chaired by Gov. Steve Chiongbian-Solon. 2018 together with the members of the SPCWC, the
The celebration kicked off last October 08, 2018 with a fun Maasim Municipal Treasurer’s Office and the Philippine
walk on the Provincial Capitol Grounds, participated in by National Police (PNP). (TIDS Teresa L. Laud, CPD-DTI
the Sarangani Province Consumer Welfare Council (SPCWC) Sarangani)
King of Mangosteen Levels Up to Help Make Filipinos Healthier
Owning 28 hectares of farm lot grown with mangosteen In 2017, Dr. Alfred’s Essentials, Inc., became one of the
trees, Dr. Alfredo S. Villarico thought of an ingenious way to mentee graduates of the Kapatid Mentor ME in North Cotabato.
use and turn the mangosteen fruit into a health and wellness “Our major learnings were about branding, accounting, and
supplement; thus, “Dr. Alfred’s Essentials, Inc.” was born. His preparing our Business Improvement Plan,” said Ms. Rhea
flagship products are mangosteen capsule and tea, which Plaza, Admin representative for Dr. Alfred’s Essentials Inc.
now includes mangosteen coffee, choco, and jams available in
sugar-free/ stevia and regular variants; and, mangosteen soap. The KMME coaching and modules greatly improved their
His products are now well-known and sought-after for their packaging and labeling, making these more attractive to the
medicinal properties and wellness effect. consuming public. And to accommodate the increasing market
demand, production and sales were increased. Currently, their
Known as the “King of Mangosteen”, Dr. Villarico was one products are sold in major pharmacies and outlets such as
of the pioneer manufacturers of supplements made from Mercury Drug Store, Generika, and SM General Santos City
mangosteen. “We were the first to introduce mangosteen Pasalubong Center, among others.(Katrina G. Coloso)
products in the market. We launched them in Los Angeles,
USA, prior to the Philippines way back in 2005,” said Dr. Villarico.
To expand his market, Dr. Villarico sought the assistance
of DTI and Negosyo Center. “DTI helped us acquire an IPO
registration for our brand and products,” he said. Through DTI’s
assistance, he was able to join various DTI-sponsored trade
fairs such as the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) and the
National Trade Fair (NTF) at SM Megamall on December 2017
where he was able to forge more market linkages and widen
the market exposure of his products.
“Malaki ang natulong sa akin ng DTI lalo na sa marketing
ng products (DTI was a big help especially in the marketing of
our products),” Dr. Villarico said. “Through these trade fairs, we
were able to bring and showcase our products to the market,” Image Source [Dr. Alfred’s Essentials, Inc. Facebook Page]
he added.
7
Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter
Former OFW Jenelyn Pagal has always dreamed
of starting her own business. Through the DTI’s
Negosyo Center, she was able to turn this dream into
a reality.
When she came home from working abroad, she
literally did not have any idea on how she can start
a business. She then learned about the different
programs and assistance of the Overseas Workers
Welfare Administration (OWWA) for OFWs which
she availed of. She underwent the OFW- Enterprise
Development and Loan Program (OFW-EDLP),
a program of OWWA in partnership with DTI’s
Negosyo Center. In line with this, she attended the
Entrepreneurial Mind-setting and Values Formation
seminar conducted by the Negosyo Center which
aims to support and promote enterprise development
among OFWs and their families.
November 2018
The loan was used by Ms. Pagal for the
establishment of the B & M Auto Repair Shop which
includes the needed equipments such as vice and
drilling, grinding, and welding machines, and a sari-
sari store and carenderia.
The 10 x 6 motorshop is equipped with tools and
equipment such as a welding machine, drilling
machine, vice for gripping and cutting, battery
charger, and the like. Her brother, Marvin Pagal, is the
Chief Mechanic who transferred from Gen. Santos City
to manage and oversee the auto repair shop in Paco,
Kidapawan City.
For her sari-sari store, she was able to increase
her inventory and display, and is now able to buy
merchandise in bulk from wholesalers. She also
established a carenderia for students and teachers
of Brgy. Paco Elementary school, serving lunch and

NC Kidapawan Helps Propel

She then registered her business with DTI and
attended business seminars conducted by Negosyo
Center Kidapawan. With the assistance of NC
Former OFWs’ Success Kidapawan City Sr. Business Counsellor Manuel
Jayme, she completed her Business Plan and applied
for a loan with OWWA through the Landbank of the
Philippines (LBP). LBP then approved and released her
loan amounting to Php 300, 000 on January 2018.
refreshments.
As a result, her combined sales from the above
business ventures increased from Php 800.00 per day
to an average of Php 3, 000.00, which translates to
roughly Php 24,000 and can go up to Php 90, 000 per
month during peak seasons. (S/BC Manuel G. Jayme)

To help the region’s MSMEs secure their License to Operate

(LTO) from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 25 food
processors from Region 12 underwent the Sanitation Standards
Operating Procedures (SSOP) Writeshop and Technology
Review of Herbal Products conducted by DTI 12 on May 22-24,
2018 at Hotel de Viajera, Koronadal City. These selected MSMEs
operate food manufacturing and processing businesses in the
region.

The SSOP was a priority activity of the DTI 12 that is aligned

to its flagship project -- the Industry Cluster Enhancement (ICE)
focusing on 16 priority clusters which include bangus, Mining,
Tourism, ICT, tuna, shrimp, muscovado, coconut and palm oil,
bamboo, coffee, cacao, organic agriculture, processed fruits
and nuts, and homestyle and wearables. Factors affecting
especially the food-related industry clusters are their poor
or non-compliance with the regulatory standards of the FDA R12 MSMEs Gain from Participating in the SSOP
which affect their product quality and marketability.
Writeshop and Technology Review of Herbal Products
SSOP and Food Safety and Management System

Resource speaker ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs

Network (AMEN) mentor Mr. Clarke S. Nebrao lectured on the
importance of the SSOP to address key sanitary conditions
and ensure safe production practices. SSOPs are prerequisite
programs for the successful implementation of Hazard Analysis
and Critical Control Points (HACCP) and the ISO 22000:2005
Food Safety Management System.
Topics include the following: Requirements for securing
an FDA Certification or LTO including the SSOP; Food safety
practices in processing; Food preservation principles and
methods; and, Tips on how to improve and develop products
in terms of quality, packaging and labeling, and preparation
and manufacturing..
Nebrao said, “Food business is not just a business, but also
a service. More importantly, it is our responsibility to produce
food that is clean, fresh, and safe. It is not just a source of
income and a means to become rich. It is our responsibility to
serve clean, fresh and safe food so that you produce the best
food and service available.”
For the SSOP, he lectured on proper documentation
requirements, specifically the Key Sanitation Condition (KSC)
of the SSOP. He also mentored the participants on how to
properly fill up the documentation requirements for the SSOP
and tackled each of the five important elements of the KSCs:
(1) control measure; (2) monitoring procedures; (3) corrective
actions; (4) verification procedures; (5) and, records.
A Technology Review on the Production of Turmeric and
other Herbal Products was also conducted. Nebrao critiqued
and tested the herbal products of the MSMEs and gave
recommendations on the proper processing techniques to
keep its nutritional value and health benefits.
An SSOP workshop followed to capacitate the MSMEs
in coming up with an SSOP for their food processing and
manufacturing business. Nebrao gave them the different forms
and documents for the SSOP which MSMEs need to fill up.The
MSMEs then presented their SSOPs and proposed plant layout
and facilities. Mr. Nebrao gave constructive feedback on which
areas to improve and keep an eye on for their food business.
Through the workshop, food processors will be able to
comply with FDA regulations on food safety and handling
procedures as well as good manufacturing practices. The
Sanitation Standards Operating Procedure is also one step for
them to secure a License To Operate (LTO) from FDA.
The following MSEs attended the SSOP Workshop:

General Santos City

NC Cotabato City Fires Up Inasal Ni Kuya’s Burning Desire for Success 1. Lola Mading’s Food
3. Jolason Farmers
Association
Abraham Borreta worked in construction companies in the registered his business with DTI, with the trade name Inasal Ni
Products 4. Monte Farm
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) for four years. He also did part- Kuya Restaurant. 2. Hotpockets Food Station 5. Unified Engineering
time jobs in Italian restaurants, in addition to his work as a civil Multi-purpose
engineer. It was then that he started dreaming of starting a food Further, he attended a seminar on Food Photography, organized Cotabato City Cooperative
business. by NC-Cotabato City.on November 21, 2017. Its Business 1. Kalanganan Fishpond 6. Tampakan Nutricare
Counsellor, Sharmagne Joyce Edio assisted him in making a Owners and Workers Wellness Corp.
Like many migrant workers, he experienced hardships and Facebook Business Page, which helped in promoting his business MPC
tribulations. After years of hard work abroad, he availed of the online. The seminars further deepened his resolve to become an 2. Pogans Food Products Sultan Kudarat
amnesty program, and went home on July 2017, together with entrepreneur, and stay with his family here. 3. Quirino’s Dried Noodles 1. GFA Marketing
his family.
2. PTR Healthy Products
On January 6, 2018, he finally unveiled and opened his Inasal Ni
North Cotabato 3. Isulan Free Farmers
Not knowing where and how to start anew, he went to the Kuya Restaurant in Cotabato City. With his hands-on experience
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), which at KSA, he says, he offers the best-tasting chicken inasal in his
1. Kuvi Coffee Biofarming Cooperative
educated him of its programs and services for OFWs. He applied hometown. 2. Noble Endeavors 4. Darling’s Food Products
for OWWA’s Balik Pinas! Balik Hanap Buhay (BPHB) Program, Mindanao, Inc. 5. De Manuel Farm
which gives financial assistance amounting to Php 20,000.00 to Just in time, OWWA approved and released the said financial 3. Vedel Farm 6. MLJ Lebak Delicacies
repatriated OFWs in order for them to start their own business. assistance to Mr. Borreta which he used as additional capital for 4. Midsayap Mango
the acquisition of new equipment such as refrigerator and storage Growers Association, Inc. Sarangani
On November 7-8, 2017, he attended the 2-day seminar- box for fresh meat. 5. San Vicente Coco Sugar 1. Dalangdang Creek
training on Business Plan (BP) Preparation and Financial Literacy Producers Association, Farms
for Migrant Workers, organized by the OWWA-ARMM and DTI’s He now earns Php 3,000.00 – Php 3,800.00 per day. He is truly Inc. 2. Riverside TG Farms
Negosyo Center-Cotabato City. They were taught how to come grateful to DTI-Negosyo Center and OWWA for helping him realize
3. Phailyn’s Food Products
up with their own Business Plan. Mr. Borreta then submitted his long-time dream of establishing his own restaurant, and
South Cotabato
his business plan and proposal to OWWA and on the same day, providing a good life to his family. (S/BC Sharmagne Joyce S. Edio)
1. Jigians Food Products
2. Norylan Food Products

8 November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter

Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter
Cotabato Agro-Industrial Investment Conference 2018
Seen To Boost More Investments In North Cotabato
Negosyo Center North Cotabato Conducts Investment
Conference, Business Matching and Trade Fair Exhibit
With the theme, “Accelerating
Investments in the Countrysides
Towards a Lasting Peace”,
the Cotabato Agro-Industrial
Investment Conference (COTA-
ICON) 2018 was held last May
10-11, 2018 at the JC Leisure and
Business Place, Lanao, Kidapawan
City to further promote investments
and business opportunities in the
province of Cotabato, specifically
agriculture-based industries and
tourism.
The said event was organized
in partnership with the Philippine
Chamber of Commerce and
Industry-North Cotabato (PCCI-
North Cotabato), Department
of Agriculture (DA), Board of
Investments (BOI), Provincial
Government of Cotabato, and the
different local LGUs. Cotabato Gov.
Emmylou Talino-Mendoza and
Congresswoman Nancy Catamco
of the House of Representatives –
District 2 of North Cotabato graced
the event.
A total of 172 participants from
the government and private sector,
financial institutions, investors, and
the academe attended. Present
were local MSMEs, associations and
cooperatives such as the Philippine
Rubber Farmers Association
and Philippine Cacao Farmers
Association, Cacao Industry
Development Association of
Mindanao Inc. (CIDAMI), and Mua-
an Farmers Cooperative, among
others. Financing institutions such
as the Development Bank of the
Philippines (DBP) and Landbank
of the Philippines (LBP) were also
present. In addition, food company
Monde Nissin Corp. and other
private companies also attended
the event.
Investment Conference
To kick-off the event, Kidapawan
City Mayor Joseph A. Evangelista
gave the Welcome Remarks
and expressed his appreciation
given that the COTA ICON 2018
will greatly help in generating
more investments in Kidapawan
City as well as in Cotabato. He
stressed that every municipality
should create an investor-friendly
environment by encouraging LGUs
to anticipate the needs of investors
in the areas of business location,
workforce, technical requirements,
to name a few.
November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter
PCCI - North Cotabato Pres.
Dr. Ramon Floresta presented
an overview of the program and
highlighted the conduct of an
investment potential and market
opportunities forum for rubber,
cacao and banana. “The COTA ICON
is a platform where the business
sector, banking, government,
farmers, investors, and technology
experts can converge, network,
and exchange ideas,” he said.
PCCI-North Cotabato Chair Dan
Zambrano meanwhile said that
PCCI envisions local economic
development especially in the
remote countryside through agri-
investments.
The conference presented a line-
up of speakers who then discussed
the following:
Cotabato Economic Profile.
Board Member Noel Baynosa
highlighted the province’s huge
investment potentials, specifically
in the agricultural sector with
major products such as raw and
semi-processed oil palm, rubber,
cavendish and lakatan banana,
among others. Some of these, if
not all, are being processed by
enterprising local MSMEs into
more value-added products.
Cotabato Tourism Industry.
City Tourism Gillian Ray Lonzaga
discussed the tourism potentials
of Cotabato, specifically the tourist
destinations such as the Paniki
Falls, Sitio Maupot, among others.
Strengthening LGU
Investment Initiatives. Board of
Investments (BOI) Chief Engr. Gil
M. Dureza stressed the importance
of strengthening and generating
investment activities in every LGU
and called for the establishment
and operation of an investment
center to spearhead investment
generating and servicing activities
such as investment missions,
conference and fora, clinics,
trade fair and exhibits, direct
mailing, and teleconferencing. He
shared about Davao City which
was able to generate billions of
investments every year through
their investment center. .
Business Matching. NC North
Cotabato Business Counsellors
facilitated the market matching
of MSMEs with potential buyers
and suppliers. Local MSMEs
were successfully matched with
buyers and suppliers, in particular,
mangosteen seller Jose Seward
“Jojo” Sapalo of Kingsmen
Agro-Development who was
successfully matched with Dr.
Alfred’s Essentials, Inc., which sells
products with mangosteen as its
primary ingredient.
Monde Nissin Corporation
represented by Mr. Rudyard
and Lovely Cabelinga was also
matched with possible suppliers of
coco sugar, taro, cassava, banana,
fermented cacao, and palm oil,
among others.
Trade Fair and Exhibit. A
trade fair exhibit was held which
showcased products of 11 local
MSMEs, namely: Velasco’s Arts and
Souvenirs, Vida Nuts, Dr. Alfred’s
Essentials Inc., KERA Coffee,
Manna’s Alternative, CRS Choco
Farm, LCG Farms, Kuvi Integrated
Farm, Vedel Farms, San Vicente
Coco Sugar Producers Association
(SANVICOPA), and TSM Food
Products. Total sales generated
reached Php 5, 730.00.
Financing Programs for
MSMEs. Land Bank of the
Philippines (LBP) representative
Joselito Guillermo presented
LBP’s credit support program to
agriculture, agro-industries and
tourism development, as well as the
requirements for loan availment,
eligible loans, and corresponding
collateral.
Agricultural Credit Policy Council
(ACPC) Loan Account Officer
Mr. Karlo Abarquez presented
their financing programs and
its requirements, such as the
Production Loan Easy Access
(PLEA) and the Survival and
Recovery Assistance Program.
Development Bank of the
Philippines (DBP) Loan Officer
Helena Ardina presented the
financing programs of DBP
for agricultural and industrial
enterprises, specifically in the
countryside and to MSMEs. She
then presented a brief profile of
DBP, their 4-Major Development
Thrusts, and DBP’s financing
programs involving agri-business.
Technology Updates. The
University of Southern Mindanao
Kidapawan City showed a demo of
farming machines/equipment to
increase the production of farmers,
namely: Cacao Pods & Seeds
Separator Machine, Corn Shelling
Machine, and Mongo Bean Sheller.
Current Status and Investment
Potentials of Major Agricultural
Products. Current status, market
and technologies of major
agricultural products such as
rubber, cacao and banana were
also presented. DA Deputy Chief
Ms. Torres discussed about RA
# 7900 or the High-value Crops
Development Act of 1995 outlining
DA’s 4 Priority Commodity Plans.
Rubber Industry. For rubber,
Provincial Board Member Cris
Cadungon shared about their best
practices in marketing, producing
and manufacturing rubber.
Provincial Ordinance No. 594
enacted the establishment of the
Cotabato Rubber Trading and
Auction Center, or the “Bagsakan
ng Rubber Cuplump”. The rubber
trading and auction serves as
the venue for rubber farmers of
Cotabato to sell their products at
a competitive or reasonable price.
Engr. Agapito Vergara presented
the uses, by-products, investment
potential and manufacturing
technology of rubber, showing the
rubber tire production flow chart
and rubber tire manufacturing
equipment,
Cacao Industry. Cacao
Industry Development
Association of Mindanao
Inc. (CIDAMI) representative
Ireneo Dalayon presented the
investment potentials and market
technologies in cacao production.
He also discussed the different
uses of cacao beans, technology
on cacao production, as well as the
increasing demand for cacao.
Banana Production.
Ecclesiastes Roque, Jr. showed
the areas planted to banana, the
volume of production, cost, and
the projected demand per region.
He also discussed on advanced
lakatan banana production and the
strong demand for lakatan banana
in international markets.
To develop and improve banana
production, Roque suggested
the creation of a national banana
industry council, increased
government support, and
imparting of good agricultural
practices (GAP). (KC/VTP/Sr.
BC Manuel Jayme/ DTI North
Cotabato/ DTI 12RO)
November 2018
DTI-South Cotabato
Celebrates 37th DTI
Anniversary
In line with the 37th anniversary of the
Department of Trade and Industry, the DTI-
South Cotabato team celebrated the event with
a visit to the Tuburan Mountain View Resort,
Inc., at Sitio San Roque, Brgy. Bolol Mala, Tupi
South Cotabato on August 20, 2018. The visit
was packed with knowledgeable and fun-filled
activities to further motivate the team and help
achieve institutional goals.
BDD Division Chief Rictoniel T. Reginio
presented the agreements of the DTI-EU
National Representative Assembly held at
Berjaya Hotel, Makati City on August 8-10,
2018, focusing on the DTI Provident Fund, Right
Sizing, PMT & PBB for 2017, Personnel Matters,
RSP (ORAOHRA), COURAGE, HMO, Mutual Death
Benefit Fund, CNA provisions, and Election of
DTI-EU Officers.
Momina M. Amino, Administrative Officer II,
presented the Summary of Agreements Reached
during AOs Meeting on August 14, 2018, as
well as Vaccine for DTI Employees, Uniform
implementation of OCI Activities (Memo Order
No. 15-739), BIR Annual Requirements for JO/
COS, Check Issuance (Returned by the bank
due to no advice/ no available fund), Mortuary
Assistance, Travel Claims, and the ISO –QMS.
A recreational activity followed with a Painting
Session entitled, “Unleash Your Creativity” with
Elliza C. Manalo, Business Counselor of Lake
Sebu.
The activity ended with a Awarding Ceremony
to recognize deserving members of the team:
continue on page 12
130 Establishments
in Region 12 Awarded
with Bagwis Seal
A total of 130 establishments from
SOCCSKSARGEN were awarded with the
coveted Bagwis Seal of Excellence Awards
(Silver and Bronze) by the Department of Trade
and Industry 12 during a ceremony held on
October 31 at FB Hotel, Koronadal City. Of the
130 awardees, 42 were Silver awardees and 88
were Bronze awardees. The Gold Awardees will
be announced by the DTI-Consumer Protection
and Advocacy Bureau (DTI CPAB) in Manila.
DTI South Cotabato STIDS Elbert G.
Capecio acknowledged all the participants
and guests to the Regional Bagwis Awards.
An inspirational message was then given by
Raymund Salangsang, the President of the
Regional SMED Council, which was followed by
the awarding of the Bagwis Seal of Excellence
Bronze and Silver Awards.
The DTI-Bagwis Program gives due
recognition to establishments that uphold
the rights of consumers while practicing
responsible business where consumers get
the best value for money. The program also
encourages the setting-up of Consumer
Welfare Desks (CWDs) or an equivalent
customer relations office inside the mall to
provide information to consumers and serve
as a mechanism for the speedy resolution of
consumer complaints. All retail establishments
can join the program such as Supermarkets,
Department Stores and Specialty Stores,
Appliance Centers, Hardware Stores, and DTI
Accredited Service and Repair Shops.
Bronze award is given in compliance to
Fair Trade Laws and CWD or an equivalent
customer relations office inside the mall. Silver
award is given for the achievement of Bronze
requirements and Social Responsibility, while
the Gold award is given for the achievement of
Silver requirements plus additional elements
aligned to ISO 9001.
9
Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter November 2018

10 November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter

Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter November 2018

NEGOSYO
PROVINCE CENTERS

COTABATO CITY 1
GENERAL SANTOS CITY 1
NORTH COTABATO 18
SARANGANI 8
SOUTH COTABATO 12
SULTAN KUDARAT 12

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10644

Otherwise known as “Go Negosyo Act”, it seeks to strengthen micro, small and medium
enterprises (MSMEs) to create more job opportunities in the country. The Act was signed into
law by Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III on July 15, 2014. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
likewise issued Department Administrative Order No. 14-5 series of 2014: “Implementing Rules
and Regulations for Republic Act No. 10644”.
The establishment of the Centers is a provision in the Go Negosyo Act wherein the DTI has been
given the key responsibility and challenge of establishing Negosyo Centers in all provinces,
cities, and municipalities nationwide.

November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter

11
Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter
Top in no. of new MSMEs Developed
Top 1 in no. of new MSMEs Developed
NC Tboli-Rhenell B. Bautista -162
Top 2 in no. of new MSMEs Developed
NC Sto Nino-Chennie E. Distor-133
Top in no. of BN Registered
Top 1 in no. of BN Registered
NC Polomolok-Darlen Joy. G Galope-685
Top 2 in no. of BN Registered
NC Surallah-Ric Rdolf C. Punzalan-206
Creative Arts & Designing
Top 1 # of packaging and labelling designs developed
NC Lake Sebu-Elliza C. Manalo-44
Top 1 in no. of Trainings/Seminars
Conducted
Top 1 in no. of Trainings/Seminars Conducted
NC NDMU-Christian Joy P. Bansuan-80
Top 2 in no. of Trainings/Seminars Conducted
NC LGU Kor-Ezraelle Magbanua-57
DTI Tandems Anew with DOLE, TESDA and OWWA for Labor
Day 2018 TNK Jobs and Business Fair
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) 12 in partnership
with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Technical
Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and Overseas
Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) successfully held the 2018
Labor Day Trabaho, Negosyo, Kabuhayan (TNK) Job and Business Fairs
on May 01 at SM GenSan in line with the 116th Labor Day celebration
in the country.
Event highlights include the following: Jobs Fair, Business Fair,
TNK Learning Session, Negosyo Center Desk, Diskwento Caravan,
Consumer Welfare Desk, and Skills Trainings.
Highlights of the 2018 Labor Day TNK Job and Business Fairs
“Habang ang DOLE ay hinikayat kayo maging empleyado, kami naman
ay hihikayatin kayong mag-negosyo” (While DOLE is encouraging you
to look for gainful employment, we are encouraging you to start a
business), said DTI 12 Regional Director Dorecita T. Delima
Giving their inspirational messages and show of support were DOLE
12 Regional Director Sisinio B. Cano, CESO IV; DOLE Asst. Secretary
Mariano Alquiza of the Human Capital Development, Legislative and
Media Affairs and Administrative Services Cluster; and, TESDA 12
Representative Benigno Aquino.
Turn-over of Livelihood Assistance. DOLE Assistant Secretary
Mariano R. Alquiza led the turnover of DILP Livelihood Assistance
Checks to different LGUs in Region 12 amounting to Php 21,492,718.00
benefitting 1,992 beneficiaries.
TNK Jobs Fair. A total of 1,425 job applicants were able to apply
to 95 companies of which 83 were hiring for almost 2,000 local jobs
while 12 were hiring for more than 3,500 jobs abroad. Applicants who
were Hired On The Spot reached 72.
Mini Trade Fair. A mini trade fair was also set up to promote the
region’s products, generating sales amounting to Php17, 280.
TNK Learning Sessions. DTI 12, in partnership with OWWA,
conducted an Entrepreneurial Mind-setting and Business Planning
Workshop on May 01 wherein 54 OFWs and their beneficiaries
12
Top Performer Award
Top 1 Performer Award
NC NDMU-Christian Joy P. Bansuan
Top 2 Performer Award
NC Polomolok-Darlen Joy. G Galope
Top 3 Performer Award
NC LGU Kor-Ezraelle A. Magbanua
The MacGyver Award
Someone who’s always fixing things — printers, light fixtures,
coffee machines, what have you — even though it’s not in their
job description.
Ross Vincent D. Carillo
Lilibeth F. Villareal
Eleuterio S. Caminos, Jr.
Above & Beyond the Call of Duty
Award (ABCD Award)
Someone who goes beyond what is expected or required in
order to complete the task/goal.
Ria B. Hallarsis
Aces All Day
Employee who comes to work on time or without fail. (Perfect
attendance)
Waren Jay B. Nantes
attended. The Entrepreneurial Mind-setting Seminar was given by
Negosyo Center GenSan Senior Business Counsellor Regi Jan Vilches.
OWWA 12 PSD Chief Christelyn R. Caceres presented the OWWA
services and programs for OFWs and at the same time recognized the
valuable and selfless service of OFWs to the country. Charles Kevin L.
Bataga then discussed the OFW-EDLP wherein OFWs undergo a 2-day
training which consists of Entrepreneurial Mind-setting Seminar and
Business Planning Workshop.
It aims to assist OFWs in preparing their business plans, which is
the main requirement for them to access financing assistance from
OWWA coursed through the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP). OFW
applicants can apply for loans ranging from Php 100,000 to Php 2
Million with a fixed interest rate of 7.5% per annum.
Negosyo Center Desk. A Negosyo Center Desk was also put up,
manned by DTI and Negosyo Center Senior Business Counsellors, to
provide free business counseling and assistance as well as business
name registration services. A total of 31 potential entrepreneurs and
7 MSMEs were served by the NC Desk. Most of their queries were on
financing and setting up a business.
November 2018
DTI-South Cotabato Celebrates 37th .......... from page 9
Positive Participator
Someone who volunteers/donates their valuable time to help
others in order to complete the task/goal.
Rochelle Mea Casipe
Sharven Doronio
Leadership Award
Works hard on issues such as team spirit, shared decision
making, collaborative working and a strong bond within and
between teams. Helping others build on their strengths and
showing appreciation.
Rictoniel T. Reginio
Elbert G. Capecio
Coffee Princess Award
Someone who is a certified Q Robusta Grader.
Leslie T. Aranilla
Busy Bee Award
For the employee who is always on the move.
Trisha May Nadine E. Calong
Team Player Award
is a person who plays or works well as a member of a team
or group. Teams in organizations need strong team players to
perform well and reach their goals.
Levigil F. Cona
Donna Ross F. Rivera
DTI Gensan Establishes 13
Shared Service Facilities
A total of thirteen (13) SSF Projects have been established by the
Department of Trade and Industry- General Santos City as of CY
2018 benefiting 10 medium enterprises (MEs), 2 non-government
organizations (NGOs), and 1 government organization.
The beneficiaries include the following: General Santos City Small
and Medium Enterprise Development Council, Inc. (GSC SMEDCI),
ICT Solutions Association- Region XII (ISA 12) and Negosyo Center
which focused on MSME development and technical assistance;
Gensan Aquamarine Processors Association (GAMPA), Gensan Dried
Fish Makers Association, Inc. (GDFMAI), General Santos City Habitat
Community Association, Inc. on quality value-added products;
RSA Fishermen/Dependents Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Lanton
– Espina Chrislam Parents Organization (LECPO), Socsargen Peace
Network Inc. (SPNI) on rag and garments production; PHILEXPORT
Region XII Laboratory on laboratory services (microbiology and
chemistry); and, Persons with Disability Multi-purpose Cooperative
(PWDMPC) on mixed media furniture production.
The project was able to provide job opportunities to
approximately 400 members of the said cooperators and provided
assistance to hundreds of potential and existing MSMEs in the city.
All of these facilities are currently operational and the technologies
provided are all in good and running condition.
The Shared Service Facilities (SSF) Project is being implemented
as a major component of the MSME Development (MSMED)
program which intends to achieve government’s goal of inclusive
economic growth. The SSF Project aims to enable MSMEs to
increase their productivity; accelerate MSME’s competitiveness
through the provision of machinery, equipment, tools, systems,
skills and knowledge, and address the gaps and bottlenecks in the
value chain of priority industry clusters. (Daniel Carlo G. Acido)
Diskwento Caravan and SUPER Consumer Desk. DTI 12 also
conducted a TNK Diskwento Caravan participated by three major malls
– Fitmart Mall, Gaisano Mall, and SM City Gensan - and two stores in
Surallah and Polomolok. Consumers were able to avail of discounted
items with 20% up to 70% discount such as school supplies, hardware,
ladies and men’s wear, children’s wear, shoes, jeans, bags, cosmetics,
housewares and appliances, furniture, toys, cellphones, footwear and
apparels, among others. Initial sales of participating malls and stores
reached Php 373,354.
DTI 12 also set up a SUPER Consumer Desk providing info
materials on Fair Trade Laws, product standards, consumer rights and
responsibilities, among others.
November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter
Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter November 2018

DTI 12 Holds EODB-EGSDA

Consultations
The Department of Trade and Industry Region 12
recently organized a public and private consultation on the
Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act 11032
or the Ease Of Doing Business And Efficient Government
Service Delivery Act of 2018 on September 6, 2018 at East
Asia Royale Hotel, General Santos City.

The consultations convened the public and private

sector, academe, national government agencies, and local
government units to promote awareness on the said Act
and served as a venue for meaningful engagement and
knowledge-sharing with those outside the policy-making
process, as well as provided opportunity for critical review
of the draft Implementing Rules and Regulations.

The EODB-EGSDA aims to further simplify and streamline

procedures for business and non-business related
transactions with the government to further improve the
ease of doing business and reduce red tape in the country.
Salient features of the law include the institutionalization
of streamlined procedures for the issuance of local business
licenses, clearances, permits, establishment of a One-Stop-
Shop, and automatic approval.

DTI Competitiveness Bureau Asst. Secretary Mary Jean

Pacheco facilitated the said consultations for the public
and private sector and discussed the salient features of RA
11032. Around 300 participants attended the consultations
and participated during the open forum. Panelists were
DTI 12 Regional Director Dorecita T. Delima, CSC Public
Assistance Information Office-Central Office Dir. Ma. Luisa
S. Agamata, CSC-XII ARD Atty. Venus D. Ondoy, and DTI
ASec. Pacheco.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed the RA 11032 or the

Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service
Delivery Act (EODB-EGSDA) on May 28, 2018, amending
the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007.

Reaching for One’s Dreams One Step at a Time: Success Story of Babel’s Meat Stand
Babelyn Nebreja once worked in a lending company. Together
with her husband who is a police officer in their municipality, their
combined earnings served to support their growing family of four.
In 2014, she decided to venture into business by raising
swine in their backyard as a hobby, and selling the meat to their
neighbourhood at a much lesser price than those in the public
market. For this, she earned PhP 30,000 a month, which was way
above her meager income as an employee.
Seeing the business’ potentials, she decided to go into
business full time, put up her own stall at the public market, and
registered her business name, Babel’s Meat Stand, with DTI. Aside
from selling fresh cut meat, she also went into processing by making
pork chorizo which she also sold in her stall.
Thereafter, she was invited by Negosyo Center Alabel to
attend the P3 Financing Forum and Financial Management Seminar
where she learned the techniques on how to handle her capital
wisely and generate more income through proper management of
her expenses. She also learned about the Pondo Para sa Pagbabago
(P3) Program of the Small Business Corporation (SBC) and applied for
a loan. This she used to infuse more capital into her business; and
with the ease in applying for the said loan as well as the low interest
rate, she was able to renew her loan a number of times.
Her business thrived. She was able to generate gross sales
of PhP 150,000 to PhP 250,000 per month. This paved the way for her
to purchase the needed equipment to improve her operations, such
as a multicab (utility vehicle), tricycle (delivery of purchased swine to
slaughter house) and five refrigerators for storage.
Over time, Babelyn realized another goal she set for herself --
she opened up a carinderia at the Alabel Public Market Food Court on
August 08, 2018, putting her cooking skills into good use. This she did
out of the proceeds of her recent loan renewal from SBC amounting
to PhP 80,000.00.
Babelyn expressed her gratitude to DTI and the Negosyo
Center for the continued support she has received which in turn
helped her become a successful entrepreneur. In the coming years,
she hopes to go into more processing activities, such as pork tocino
and chicken chorizo, as well as venture into new industries by putting
up a carwash business. This she hopes to realize once the construction
of their present home is finished. (BC Khenno N. Hinampas, NC
Alabel)

City of Koronadal Celebrates 8th Negosyo Festival
In celebration of the city of
Koronadal’s 18th Charter Anniversary
and 8th Negosyo Festival, the Local
Government Unit, in collaboration
with the Department of Trade and
Industry-South Cotabato, held
activities highlighting the event,
namely: Trade Expo at the City Mall
of Koronadal, and MSME Roadshow
2018- Negosyo Forum.
Eleven MSMEs from South Cotabato
participated in the 3-day Trade Expo
which opened on October 3, 2018.
Six of these were from the City of
Koronadal, namely: South Valley Foods,
Tupi Coffee Growers Association,
Inc. (TUCOGAI), Danlag Women’s
Association (DWA), South Rays Valley
Food Corp., Bai Lyn’s Food Products,
Saravia Tri-people Rural Entrepreneurs
Development Association (STREDA),
Jodan’s Bakeshoppe, and Rainer’s
Food Products -- all of which are
into food processing. KUDLIT Artists,
TUNGKOD sa Buhay PWD Association,
and Bagal Blaan Kalondatal, Inc. are
into arts and crafts.
The first Negosyo Festival exhibit
was organized by DTI-South Cotabato
in collaboration with the Negosyo
Center of LGU Koronadal. Guests
who made the opening a remarkable
one include Mayor Peter B. Miguel of
Koronadal City, RD Dorecita T. Delima
of DTI XII, and Mr. Elric M. Batilaran
of LGU Koronadal Negosyo Center. In
behalf of PD Flora P. Gabunales, Mr.
Rictoniel Reginio of DTI-SC also shared
his insights on the importance of the
said exhibit. Representatives coming
from the Chamber of Commerce and
Industry, City Mall Koronadal and LGU
were also present during the event.
Mayor Miguel proudly emphasized
the uniqueness of Koronadal City
as only this city celebrates festivals
like this, and expressed his desire to
see more trade exhibits in the future
with a larger number of exhibitors
showcasing their local products. For
Bagal Blaan Kalondatal, Inc., which
joined the expo for the first time, their
participation was a milestone for their
group as it opened opportunities for
them to market their products. .
The MSME Roadshow 2018:
Negosyo Forum, one of the event’s
side activities, was held on October
04, 2018 at the City Hall Lobby of
Koronadal. It focused on providing
answers regarding the financing needs
of MSMEs. A total of 281 participants
attended -- a mix of DOLE’s Livelihood
Program beneficiaries, OFWs, Negosyo
Center Koronadal clients, and other
departments’ (Cooperative and Agri)
clients. It started with a motivational
talk by Ms. Hannah Mamon who
shared her experiences as a struggling
entrepreneur. Discussions zeroed
in on MSME related laws, the South
Cotabato Provincial MSMED Plans and
MSME Summit Updates which were
given by Rictoniel T. Reginio and Ria
B. Hallarsis of DTI-SC, as well as Rany
Haberle, Jr., of MSMED.
Invited speakers for the Financing
Forum were Dindo Quevada
(businessman); Reggie Gil R. Ergino
(One Network Bank Koronadal);
Evelyn P. Tampus (PNB); and Joel Suizo
(LBP). Mr. Quevada gave inputs which
served as a guide in borrowing while
the rest presented their financing
and business packages which may be
availed of.
Apart from the forum, a Tsokapehan
booth which offered free Coffee and
Tableya drinks was also set up in
the area.. (BC Ezra Elle A. Magbanua,
Negosyo Center LGU Koronadal)

November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter

13
Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter November 2018

KJRD’s Food Products Bounces Back thru the Help of NC Antipas
Back in 2006, Rosalyn Espenorio started KJRD’s Food
Products with an initial capital of only PhP 3,000.00 selling
processed foods such as fish crackers and banana chips.
But after three years of operation, the business temporarily
closed down, and would have remained permanently closed,
if not for the enterprising spirit of Mrs. Espenorio and her
chance encounter with DTI.
After having registered her business with NC Antipas, a lot
of opportunities opened up for her which completely turned
around her business for good.
With the assistance of DTI and NC Antipas, she was able
to consistently display her products in trade fairs such as the
annual Kalivungan Festival, which paved the way to having
more customers; thus, resulting to higher sales.
She also avidly attended DTI’s Negosyo Center Seminars
on Good Manufacturing Practices, Product Packaging
and Labelling, Product Pricing and Costing, and Financing
Forum. She also underwent the Enterprise Development and
Livelihood Program (EDLP) cum Business Planning Workshop
with topics on Financial Literacy, How to Start a Business,
Champion Entrepreneurship, and Business Planning. All of
these improved her products and her business operations.
With growing market demand, she applied for a loan with
OWWA and Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) in March
2013. This was approved and released in the amount of Php
300,000. As a result of market exposure via trade fairs, she was
able to successfully repay the loan. She again applied for a
loan amounting to Php 1,000,000 from OWWA-Landbank on
April 2018. NC Antipas Business Counsellor Hanie Lou Llupar
assisted her in coming up with her business plan, which is
one of the loan requirements. Mrs. Espenorio is now awaiting
for the approval of her loan which she will use as additional
capital for the construction of a production facility.
“Didto ko nakatuon na dapat gyod diay naay savings ug
dapat diay mag invest gyod. Dili na magsige lang gasto. Mao
diay wala gyod koy naipon dati bisan kusog na akong halin
dati pa (One of my learnings is that I need to save and invest
my earnings from the business instead of always spending
it. Now I know the reason why I wasn’t able to save anything
even if my sales were high before),” said Ms. Espenorio.
Now, her product line includes not only fish crackers
and banana chips, but also ampao, special stick bread, and
assorted candies. Her market has also expanded to cover
not only Antipas, but also neighboring municipalities such
as Pres. Roxas, Magpet, Matalam, and Arakan. She also
distributes her products in Digos and Davao City, as well as
in Sultan Kudarat.
As a result of DTI’s and Negosyo Center’s interventions
coupled with the perseverance of Mrs. Espenorio, her
production increased from 30,000 packs to 56, 700 packs
per month for fish cracker alone. Her sales also has increased
from Php 210, 000 to Php 396, 900 per month.
With increased sales, she has also acquired several
equipments such as a Meat Grinder/Crusher, Steamer, Electric
Motor, Roller Steel, Big Pan, Oven, Pop Machine, Freezer and
Refrigerator, and three motorcycles for delivery, with a total
value of almost Php 3 Million.
She is truly grateful for DTI’s and Negosyo Center’s
interventions, which helped her bounce back from failure to
success. (BC Hanie Lou Llupar, Negosyo Center-Antipas)
SUCCESS STORY
Kalamansig Municipal Employees
Association (KAMEA)
The Kalamansig Municipal Employees Association (KAMEA) is
engaged in coffee processing and trading. In partnership with the
Department of Trade and Industry 12, the association was able to
avail of a coffee roaster that is still operational and has been producing
coffee products for the Pasalubong Center.
The enterprise is engaged in coffee processing of both ground and
roasted coffee beans known as KAMEA coffee which is a realization of
the vision of the association to actively facilitate the development of a
coffee value chain in the locality.
The establishment of a processing and trading enterprise was
envisioned to motivate KAMEA coffee farmers to regard coffee farming
as an important enterprise that will augment their families’ limited
income.
The President of KAMEA Coffee, Valenciene C. Panila, sought
assistance from the DTI under the Shared Service Facility (SSF) Program
for the enhancement of their coffee equipment/facility and to intensify
their coffee processing activity and enhance product quality.
A Horizontal Sealing Machine and Heavy Duty Grinding Machine
were approved under the project in the amount of Php 148,000.00.
Before the SSF, they were producing coffee in 10 to 15 kilos which can
create 30 to 50 packs. After the SSF equipment was delivered, they
began producing 50 to 60 kilos which can create 250 to 300 packs.
Their sales before was only PhP 3,000 to PhP 5,000 per month. This
increased to PhP 17,000 to PhP 25,000 through the SSF Project.
In 2013, when the SSF project was awarded to KAMEA, it had only
five beneficiaries. After the SSF, this increased to 15 beneficiaries. In
terms of membership, KAMEA had only 50 members before the SSF.
This has now increased to 100 members after the SSF.
Whereas their mode of selling before was through retail stores (sari-
sari store) in Kalamansig, orders, and walk-ins, after the SSF project,
their products are now seen in the OTOP Store. (Jerick D. Mariano)
DTI-Sultan Kudarat

SHARED SERVICE FACILITIES SUCCESS STORY

in SOCCSKSARGEN Sultan Kudarat Coffee Ventures, Inc.

The municipality of Sen. Ninoy Aquino is the biggest producer and the
largest contributor to the total coffee production of Sultan Kudarat, the
coffee capital of the Philippines. Located on the highlands with sustained cool
weather, coffee farming has thrived in the locality. This led the Sultan Kudarat
Coffee Ventures, Inc., to start their coffee production on October 12, 2013 and
PROVINCE 2013-2016 2018 established themselves as one of the pioneer coffee producers in the province.

GENERAL SANTOS CITY 11 2 SKCVI produces two varieties of coffee -- Robusta and Arabica which carry
COTABATO CITY 6 1
the Manobo - Dulangan inspired brand name, Kape Dulangan.
SULTAN KUDARAT
Isulan 4
Tacurong 3 They started with only three employees with the supervision of the
Lambayong 3
Pres. Quirin 2 enterprise’s manager, Vergie Ruilan. Their sales that time averaged to only
Lutayan Php50,000 per month which equates to 300 kilos of roasted coffee monthly.
Columbio 2
Esperanza 2 Their market at that time was only limited to the locality with Tacurong Fitmart
Lebak 8
Bagumbayan 4 as their biggest distribution outlet.
Kalamansig 3 2
Sen. Ninoy Aquino 1 1
Palimbang 1 DTI-Sultan Kudarat then came into the picture and SKCVI became their
SOUTH COTABATO regular client. They availed of countless business consultancy services and were
Polomolok 2 invited to take part in various trainings and seminars, as well as joined trade
Tupi 1
Tampakan 2 fairs organized by DTI. Some of these are Product Packaging and Labelling,
Surallah 2 1
Koronadal 5
Branding Equity, Sikat Trade Fair (Luzon), Mindanao Trade Expo in Davao and
Sto. Nino 1 Treasures of Sox in General Santos City. They are also one of the beneficiaries of
Norala
Banga DTI’s SSF Program, receiving additional equipment that includes a heavy-duty
Tboli 1
Tantangan 5
grinder, an all-weather dryer, teabag machine, and band sealer to improve
Lake Sebu 6 their production.
SARANGANI
Alabel 2 1
Maasim
DTI’s intervention proved fruitful as it impacted significantly to the growth
Malapatan 2 1 of SKCVI. They were able to upgrade their packaging and improve the quality
Glan 1
Malungon 4 1 of their coffee. Kape Dulangan was exposed to a larger market and made a
Maitum 1 1
Kiamba 2
name for itself as one of the best coffees in SOCCSKSargen. They are now
distributing to 36 different outlets in the country, such as MA+D Café in
NORTH COTABATO
Aleosan Manila, SM Gensan, Kablon Farms, and Ernest Resto in Cotabato Airport.
Alamada
Midsayap
1
2
These resulted to increased sales of almost 1,400%. They have now reached
Pikit 1 sales of Php700,000.00 from 5,000 kilos of roasted coffee. To better cope with
Pigcawayan 1
Libungan increasing demand, SKCVI expanded its workforce to 19 personnel, 15 as daily
Makilala
Kidapawan 1 2
workers and 4 on-call workers.
Antipas
Pres. Roxas 1
Magpet 1 And as a payback for all the success they are now getting, SKCVI is helping
Arakan
Kabacan
1
1
the local residents, most especially the IP communities to uphold the education
Tulunan of children thru book donations in day-care centers. They are also extending
Mlang 1
Matalam 1 their hands to Tinalon Coffee Farmers Association by giving them free coffee
Carmen
Banisilan
3
seedlings and nursery bags.
SUMMARY PER PROVINCE
98 12 GENERAL SANTOS CITY 13 Through the initiative of their new manager, Vicente Toring, they have
COTABATO CITY 7 started to engage in organic farming to produce higher value coffee products.

110 SSF PROJECTS

SULTAN KUDARAT 36 They also plan to upgrade and use label-printed packaging materials to
SOUTH COTABATO 26
SARANGANI 11 prepare them for future export engagements. (Jerick D. Mariano)
NORTH COTABAT 17
Shared Service Facility (SSF) Project

14 November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter

Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter
NC Alabel Conducts
Retooling Seminar for
ABCD
Negosyo Center Alabel
tied up with the Alabel
Business Coordination and
Development Board (ABCD)
in the conduct of the “Alabel
Business Coordination
and Development Board
Operations Retooling
Seminar” on September 28,
2018 at the 2/F DTI Sarangani
Provincial Office, Capitol Park,
Alabel, Sarangani.
The seminar was aimed
at further capacitating the
business development
implementing team of Alabel
LGU by providing information
on current business processes
being implemented by the DTI,
as well as the Best Practices
of other Local Government
Units (LGUs) in Region 12
in streamlining business
registration processes. It also
Region 12 Garners Awards in the 2018
Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index
aimed to further develop
the internal and external
operations of the Board to help
DTI promote and implement
its services at the LGU level.
A total of 17 participants
attended, composed of
ABCD Board members and
LGU Alabel Joint Inspection
Team (JIT) members. For DTI
Services, the following topics
were presented: Negosyo
Center Services and the BMBE
Law (BC Khenno N. Hinampas);
Briefer on RA No. 11032 or the
Ease of Doing Business and
Efficient Government Service
Delivery Act of 2018, as well as
RA No. 9485 or the Anti-Red
Tape Act (OIC-DC/STIDS Eddie
S. De Asis); and, Business Name
Law Rules and Regulations of
Act No. 3883 (TIDS Teresa L.
Laud).
Milbie G. Daguro of the
Sarangani Tourism and
Investment Promotion
Center gave a Briefer/
Orientation of the 2018
Cities and Municipalities
Competitiveness Index (CMCI),
as well as presented the results
of the 2018 CMCI. For the JIT
Retooling, Carmen Hijara of
the Department of Internal
and Local Government
(DILG)-Sarangani presented
Municipal Ordinance No.
11-2015-106 or the JIT
Composition and Functions.
The Best Practices of LGUs
Koronadal City and Tacurong
City were then presented.
Jose Maria Rene Torreflores,
Business Permits and
Licensing Officer (BPLO) Head
of Tacurong City, presented
Kidapawan City in North Cotabato ranked Top 18 among
the component cities in the country. Meanwhile, Koronadal
City in South Cotabato ranked Top 24 and Tacurong City in
Sultan Kudarat ranked Top 25.
Overall Most Competitive
Municipalities
their framework plan for the
Business One-Stop-Shop
(BOSS). He zeroed in on
streamlining their business
registration procedure to only
two steps by developing a
payment system that lessens
the waiting time of clients.
It also includes providing
all forms and attachments
and ensuring that these are
completed and paid for on
Step 1 so that clients will
only wait for the releasing of
Business Permit on Step 2.
Gilbert Gayosa, BPLO
Head of LGU Koronadal, also
presented their practices in
their LGU, focusing on the
three main steps of BOSS,
namely: (1) submission of
forms and requirements; (2)
payment of fees/charges;
and, (3) claiming of Business
Permit. He also presented
their JIT, a.k.a. Task Force
“Bantay-Negosyo”, and shared
that they have developed a
computer system to decrease
the waiting period of clients.
Both BPLOs recommended
to the group the need to invest
in a computer system to fast-
track the business registration
process. Mr. Danilo Sibugan,
ABCD President, expressed
his appreciation as the activity
provided them with valuable
inputs to further develop their
existing practices. (BC Khenno
N. Hinampas, NC Alabel)
1st and 2nd Class
November 2018
DTI 12 Holds Regulatory Simplification
Workshop for BPLS Streamlining
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) 12 conducted
a Regulatory Simplification Workshop for the Streamlining of
Business Permits and Licensing System to further streamline
processes for new and existing businesses.
Thirteen Local Government Units (LGUs) in SOCCSKSARGEN
participated in the 2-day workshop: North Cotabato in the
municipalities of Kabacan and Midsayap (February 20-22,
2018); Sultan Kudarat - Esperanza and Isulan (July 30-31,
2018); Sultan Kudarat - Bagumbayan, Lambayong, Lutayan
and Columbio (October 4-5, 2018); and, South Cotabato in
the municipalities of Banga, Tantangan, Sto. Nino, Norala,
and Tupi (October 25 – 26, 2018). Representing the LGUs
were BPLO/LEIPO Coordinators, Department Heads (Treasury,
Engineering, City Planning, CENRO, Health, Licensing, Market
Supervisor), and representatives from the Bureau of Fire
Protection, and DTI and DILG focal persons.
The workshop validated the compliance and adoption of
the Revised BPLS implementation of the LGUs through the
conduct of an assessment workshop vis-à-vis the Revised
Standards and coming up with reform strategies and coaching.
The activity was done in accordance with Joint Memorandum
Circular 01 Series of 2016. It mainly focused on the Revised
BPLS standards, particularly on their compliance of the
following: (1) use of one unified form (print and electronic
document); (2) reduction of steps (maximum of 3 steps for
New and Renewal), (3) reduction of signatories (maximum of
2, Mayor and Treasurer/BPLO with alternates/e-signature), and
(4) reduction of processing time (1-2 days for new and 1 day or
less for renewal).
The BPLS Program has 5 components: (1) mobilizing
champions for the BPLS reform process; (2) simplification and
standardization of the BPLS process; (3) computerization of the
BPLS process; (4) institutionalization; and (5) improvements in
customer relations.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of
the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Department of
Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Regional
Offices have been tasked to roll out the Revised BPLS program
in the region.
NC Alabel Increased BMBE Registration
and P3 Loan Availment thru Conduct of
Seminar and One-on-One Facilitation

Among the 489 LGUs, twelve (12) 1st and 2nd class
municipalities in the region were able to enter into the Top
50 Most Competitive 1st and 2nd Class Municipalities in the
country. Isulan, North Cotabato ranked Top 10.

Midsayap, North Cotabato ranked Top 11 followed by

Image Source [Manila Bulletin News]
In the 6th edition of the Regional Competitiveness
Summit highlighting the results of the 2018 Cities
and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI), the
Department of Trade and Industry Region 12 garnered
awards in several categories. All the municipalities of the
four provinces and the five (5) component cities of Region
12 participated in the 2018 CMCI resulting to a 100%
participation rate.
Besting 489 LGUs, Cotabato City was awarded Top 3 in
the pillar of Government Efficiency among component
cities in the country. Cotabato City also ranked Top 21 in
the Economic Dynamism pillar, 16th place in Infrastructure,
and 32nd place in Resiliency.
Isulan, Sultan Kudarat ranked Top 10 overall among the
Most Competitive 1st and 2nd class municipalities in the
country.
Out of the 75 provinces in the country, Sarangani ranked
as the 5th most competitive province, followed by North
Cotabato ranking 6th while Sultan Kudarat ranked 7th and
South Cotabato ranked 8th place.
For the Highly Urbanized Cities, General Santos City
ranked 14th out of 33 HUCs in the country .
Polomolok, South Cotabato (Top 12); Kabacan, North
Cotabato (Top 16); Surallah, South Cotabato (Top 26);
Maasim, Sarangani (Top 28); Malungon, Sarangani (Top 32);
Antipas, North Cotabato (Top 33); Alabel, Sarangani (Top 34);
M’lang, North Cotabato (Top 37); Makilala, North Cotabato
(Top 44); and Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat (Top 49) among
the Most Competitive 1st and 2nd Class Municipalities.
Overall Most Competitive 3rd and 4th Class
Municipalities
Among the 874 LGUs in the country, Aleosan, North
Cotabato ranked Top 42 Most Competitive 3rd and 4th
Class municipality.
About the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness
Index
The rankings were based on the validation process
conducted in the country’s 33 HUCs, 489 LGUs under the
1st to 2nd Class municipalities, and 874 LGUs under the 3rd
to 6th Class Municipalities.
The Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index is an
annual ranking developed by the National Competitiveness
Council (NCC) and the Department of Trade and Industry
(DTI) through the Regional Competitiveness Committees
(RCC) with the support of the United States Agency for
International Development (USAID).
A total of 14 BMBE applications and 10 P3 loan applications
were submitted to Negosyo Center Alabel during the
conduct of the Basic Financial Management and Loan
Availment Seminar on September 27, 2018 at the 2/F, DTI
Sarangani Provincial Office, Capitol Park, Alabel, Sarangani.
Said activity was held to fast-track applications for BMBE
and P3 given that only a few applications were received by
the center for both BMBE and P3. Topics discussed include
Business Name Registration and the advantages of having a
legal business, such as a Barangay or Business Permit, as well
as BMBE. Thereafter, BC Khenno N. Hinampas encouraged
the participants, all of whom brought their DTI Business
Name certificates, to fill up the BMBE application form. He
then assisted them in validating their current and non-
current assets. At the end of the forum a total of 14 BMBE
applications were submitted for BMBE Certificate generation.
A Basic Financial Management and Loan Availment
Seminar then followed. The Business Counsellor discussed
the effective ways on how to save capital or assets thereby
maximize profits, as well as presented the ways on proper
cash management in a sari-sari store type of business.
James Camia of the Small Business Corporation (SBC) then
discussed the Loans and Loan Availment Program of SBC,
to include the Pondo para sa Pagbabago (P3) Program. At
the end of the seminar, 10 MSMEs (1 new loan applicant, 9
renewal) applied for loan and are now being evaluated for P3
loan release. (BC Khenno N. Hinampas, NC Alabel)

Among the 112 LGUs, Cotabato City ranked Top 15 while

November 2018 - Treasures of Region 12 Newsletter

15
Treasures of R egion 12 Newsletter November 2018

Treasures of Region 12
Newsletter Editorial Board

The Humble RD Dorecita T. Delima

Head Publisher/ Editor-In Chief

Shepherd by VClaire
ARD Anthony P. Bravo
Asst. Regional Director/ Asst. Head Publisher

EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS

PD Flora P. Gabunales
DTI South Cotabato

VIII PD Felisa A. Sinobago

I who withstands the test of time
A needle amidst a pile of rice stalk
Comes from a simple loving family
Where needs so basic as can be
Vivid glimpse of life’s luxury,
inspired to rise gradually
II
Dreams may be elusive,
sacrifices needed to be incurred
But every single encouragement
watered the small amount of
courage
‘til the plant blossomed into a
sturdy tree.
III
Determination is the key,
Unstoppable thirst for knowledge
And willingness to improve
one’s self constantly
Fertilized his deepening roots
IV
His strong facets
coupled with tough words
Make people hesitate to converse
But this simply manifest
his strength of character
Solid and secure
V His guidance will always be
Brawny, vigorous and steadfast
Defines his leadership style
Knowing one’s people
Is the principle he follows in life
VI
Beneath what shows in the surface
Is his deep humility
Admitting that nothing can be
achieved
Without the help of his team
VII
Self-confident and self-assured
in a good way,
Knowing where his place is
Allows him to give his people
The opportunity to prove
themselves
More than our mentor, he’s a DTI Sultan Kudarat
father
Not only to his sons OIC Ferdinand C. Cabiles
But most of all to his flock DTI North Cotabato
Whom he led four decades and
beyond. OIC Arnel V. Sayco
DTI General Santos City
IX
Strong as a Molave, OIC Carlito E. Nuñez
resilient as a bamboo tree, DTI Cotabato City
His words of wisdom
will always be remembered OIC Ethel Laksmi L. Gumana
DTI Sarangani
sought
His assuring words, STIDS Cheryl Marie C. Cipriano
we will look forward to hear. Supervising Editor
X IO Vanessa Claire T. Pleña
He may take life a little bit slowly Managing Editor/ Writer
But for sure, his mind Regional Information Officer
will never cease to think
His body will always find the BC Katrina G. Coloso
strength Editor/Writer
To do what God
makes him good in doing PROVINCIAL INFORMATION OFFICERS
XI TIDA Januel King Vertido
Like a good shepherd, S/BC Manuel G. Jayme
He will always be loved DTI North Cotabato
His laughter will always linger
In the hearts of the people he
TIDS Elyka Lu Agan
touched.
DTI Cotabato City

TIDS Naye Joy A. Lubaton

DTI General Santos City

DTI 12 Honors Former Regional Cheryl Marie Cipriano

DTI Sarangani

Director TIDS Waren Jay Nantes

STIDS Elbert Capecio
DTI South Cotabato
Ibrahim “Ibs” K. Guiamadel, former DTI 12 Regional Director for During the meeting, the DTI staff expressed their messages of
TIDS Joven S. Quiriones
25 years who served the organization for almost four decades gratitude to the former regional director and presented him DTI Sultan Kudarat
retired last April 21, 2018. with tokens as a remembrance of his time with DTI.
DC Hazel E. Hautea, IDD
Instead of having a grand retirement party, he opted to meet Till the end of his term, his genuine concern for the welfare DC Robert Ofrecio, SDD
with the DTI Field Offices management and staff for a more of his staff prevailed, a virtue that is well-appreciated by the DC Mary Ann Morales, CPD
personalized and memorable time with them. organization. Surely, his presence will always be missed. Consultants

CONTRIBUTORS
How MILES Work
STIDS Eddie S. de Asis BC Darlen Joy Galope
1. Meet with Potential Buyers TIDS Cynthia Marcelo BC Chan Panes-Bansuan
• determine sub-contracting
arrangements or similar business TIDS Aiza Marie Bercades BC Kristina S. Ladja
opportunities for MSMEs TIDS Babylon Maganaka BC Khenno N. Hinampas
• probe on the supplies/materials
they require in big volume TIDS Teresa L. Laud BC Lovely Z. Ramos
2. Scout for Suppliers TIDA Friche Jay Rabaya BC Jake Camasura
• profiling of MSME suppliers
• establish directory of suppliers per TIDS Imelda T. Salvador BC Elena May Acuña
product BC Erica Anne Dulay BC Airah Buisan
• coordinate with other agencies for
directory of producers BC Hanie Lou Llupar BC Regine Corpuz
If there are no existing suppliers,
BC Fitz Gerald V. Anuta BC Claribelle Tahitit
• gather data and prepare project
briefs to determine the viability of BC Sharmela C. Pasion BC Cresinte M. Gumilao
the project and cost of investments
required; BC Hazel Shayne I. Ramil BC Marjorie T. Repol
• promote business opportunities to BC Donna Ross F. Rivera Jerick D. Mariano
local investors
3. Business Matching BC Ezraelle A. Magbanua Daniel Carlo G. Acido
• promotes the business S/BC Mary Lorynail Faith S. Andrade
opportunities thru client calls,
one-on-one business matching, S/BC Sharmagne Joyce S. Edio
business opportunity seminars,
BC Christine Queen Dueñas
investment conference
4. Partnership Agreements TIDS Jessa Jane B. Locaberte
• partnership agreements are forged
between parties involved BC Reanne Claudine Laguna
5. Project Engagement BC Mark Nikko L. Manginsay
6. Project Monitoring

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