The Department of Trade and Industry in Caraga Region (DTI-13) approved 20 new Shared Service Facilities (SSFs) in 2025 worth PHP208.4 million, boosting agriculture, fisheries, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the region.

“Of the 20 approved last year, five are about to be operationalized as finalizations are being made with the concerned group beneficiaries,” said Brenda Corvera, DTI-13 assistant regional director, in an interview during the conduct of the Stakeholders’ Forum here Wednesday.

She added that as of December 2025, DTI-13 had implemented more than 200 SSFs. Of these, 131 have transitioned into cooperatives, 80 remain under maintenance, and 36 are fully operational.

In its report presented during the forum, the agency said SSF-assisted enterprises have generated about 1,102 jobs, underscoring the program’s role in expanding livelihoods and stimulating local economic activity.

One of the beneficiaries is the Mangagoy Farmers, Fisherfolk and Community Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MAFFISCO) in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur. The cooperative produces and markets fresh-frozen and bottled tuna products.

“We have been a beneficiary of the SSF program since 2014 and have already received two facilities,” MAFFISCO manager Rho Cougee Garrido said.

He added that the cooperative was provided with an ice crusher and cold storage facilities worth over PHP2 million.

“These facilities are vital in preserving our members’ catch and processing our products,” Garrido said, adding that MAFFISCO’s goods now reach markets beyond Surigao del Sur with DTI’s support.

The cooperative also participates in trade fairs and marketing programs organized by the agency.

DTI-13 reported that 55 Negosyo Centers have been established in the region, assisting about 32,459 MSMEs. (PNA)