A growing number of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Ilocos Norte are expanding their market reach with the continuing rollout of the provincial government’s Producer-to-Consumer (P2C) program.

From an average of PHP500,000, gross sales under P2C reached PHP1.2 million during the three-day sale of the province’s products in Quezon City and San Juan in Metro Manila, according to Elma Gabriel, head of the provincial government’s MSME office.

“The P2C program is a big help for us to reach out to a bigger market. We stay afloat in business because of the continuing support of the government and those who patronized our export-quality products,” Juvelyn Crusina, a local artisan from Pagudpud, said in a recent interview.

Among the products sold on July 26 to 28 at the city halls of both local governments were fashion accessories and handicrafts made of coconut shells, such as eating utensils, candle holders and cups.

By participating in government-organized trade fairs and bazaars, Crusina said she has gained resellers abroad.

Another farmer-entrepreneur, Agnes Asuncion from Currimao, said her participation in the P2C program has increased her net profit by 100 percent compared to when she sells her produce in the province.

“As a former overseas Filipino worker turned entrepreneur, I just realized that you do not need to go abroad when opportunities are waiting for you back home. I am thankful for the support of various government agencies for the provision of skills training, product development, and marketing of products,” Asuncion told the Philippine News Agency on Monday.

With the successful operation of the P2C program in Quezon City since 2017, the Presidential Awards for Outstanding Development partner will be conferred to the Ilocos Norte government’s P2C program this month.

The award from the Department of Trade and Industry honors MSMEs and development partners who have demonstrated exceptional contributions and innovations for creating or improving the business climate, providing or improving access to finance, markets, technology and innovation, as well as enhancing management and labor capacities.

As the P2C program continues to gain popularity with local partners, Gabriel reported that they have grown to 70 active members.

“Our online platform is growing too,” she said, noting that they have initiated a pre-order service to cater to those who want to experience the products and taste the flavors of Ilocos.

She said talks are underway with other local government units in Metro Manila to further expand the P2C program. (PNA)