The Regional Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Development (MSMED) Council of Negros Island Region (NIR) has been formed to advance the growth and development of MSMEs in Negros and Siquijor.
Engiemar Tupas, officer-in-charge chief of the SMEs Development Division of Department of Trade and Industry–Negros Island Region (DTI-NIR), told the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday that representatives of various government and private institutions gathered on Oct. 12 for the organizational meeting here presided by council chair, DTI-NIR Acting Regional Director Esperanza Melgar.
“The establishment of the Regional MSMED Council highlights the importance of a collaborative mechanism that would bring together key stakeholders to identify the needs and concerns of MSMEs,” he added.
He said that through the Regional MSMED Council, members will also align development programs and formulate strategies that would create a more enabling environment for entrepreneurship and business growth.
In a statement, the DTI-NIR said the development marks an important step toward strengthening collaboration among government agencies, the private sector, and other stakeholders whose programs, services, and initiatives contribute to the development of the MSME sector.
Among those who attended the meeting were chairpersons of the Provincial MSMED Councils of Siquijor, Negros Oriental, and Negros Occidental.
Mary Ann Colmenares, chairperson of the Negros Occidental MSMED Council, was unanimously elected as co-chairperson of the Regional MSMED Council.
“The election of Colmenares reflects the importance of provincial representation and grassroots participation in regional policymaking,” the DTI-NIR said.
It added that as a representative of the provincial MSME development sector, Colmenares’ role as co-chairperson is expected to help strengthen the link between the regional council and the provincial MSMED Councils, ensuring that the perspectives, challenges, and aspirations of local entrepreneurs are brought into regional discussions and initiatives.
“With the Regional MSMED Council now organized, the next steps will focus on strengthening stakeholder coordination, identifying priority concerns, and developing collaborative initiatives that will translate its mandate into concrete opportunities for entrepreneurs,” the DTI-NIR statement said. (PNA)
