The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Ilocos Norte continues to enhance the market competitiveness of micro, small, and medium entrepreneurs in the province by extending assistance in improving their product labels and ensuring they pass quality standards.

Under DTI’s One Town, One Product (OTOP) next generation program, at least seven food processors from Ilocos Norte have become more confident in selling their products, both in the local and global market, after complying with basic requirements, particularly on product labeling.

Starting with 10 piglets to raise in an idle lot owned by her father-in-law in Barangay Saoit, Burgos, Ilocos Norte in 2015, Precious Jamorabon, owner of Vir-Hills Farm, is now expanding her market reach with her tasty longganisa that comes with a new label, containing microbial analysis, nutrition facts, and a registered trademark.

“I never thought I would reach this far. I am so thankful to all those who assisted me along the way, especially the DTI for my improved labels,” Jamorabon told the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday.

She is one of the latest beneficiaries of the OTOP Next Gen program.

She said her new product label brings a stronger identity, better appeal, and a brighter future, which continues to inspire her to work harder to reach her goals.

DTI-Ilocos Norte Director Amelia Galvez said the initiative is part of empowering microentrepreneurs to expand their market and foster sustainable growth.

“By providing these vital services, DTI-Ilocos Norte ensures that local products not only meet industry standards but also stand out in a competitive market,” she said in a statement.

The other beneficiaries are maker of kangkong chips EA’s Food Products, Jazmyne’s peanut butter, Paoay Backyard Hog Raisers Agriculture Cooperative, Siwawer Federated Rural Improvement Club, Metro Lapaz Fish Processors Association, and ANX Food Processing.

The continued effort to make micro businesses become small, and eventually large businesses, is part of the priority of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to make the Philippines a high-middle-income economy.

In his 4th State of the Nation Address, the President reiterated his administration’s commitment to help start-ups by providing free training and capital so that they can build their own businesses. (PNA)