Bacolod city: Three micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Negros Occidental have been awarded a total of PHP1.043 million in grants through the Adjustment Measures Program (AMP) facilitated by the Department of Labor and Employment-Negros Island Region (DOLE-NIR). The financial support aims to aid these enterprises in overcoming recent challenges, enhancing their operations, and adapting to evolving market demands.

According to Philippines News Agency, the recipients of the grants include the Association of Negros Producers (ANP) in Bacolod City, which received PHP257,000; Fishtank Catering Services in Sipalay City, granted PHP400,000; and Ruben Seedling Farm in Valladolid town, which was provided PHP386,422. The DOLE-Negros Occidental has indicated that these grants are intended to support the businesses in their recovery efforts and to promote sustainable growth.

The ANP plans to use the grant to bolster its Marketing Cooperative's capacity-building initiatives and business enhancement, with a focus on adopting digital marketing strategies. The transition to digital platforms is expected to broaden the cooperative's market reach and ensure its competitiveness in the digital economy.

For Fishtank Catering Services, the funds will facilitate product development, innovation, and various adaptation measures. This support is expected to enable the business to diversify its product offerings and boost income generation, particularly during off-peak seasons.

Ruben Seedling Farm, which has faced setbacks due to typhoons, intends to use the grant for product development and capacity-building efforts. The farm aims to rehabilitate its operations by adopting resilient planting materials, improving production techniques, and enhancing workforce skills.

The DOLE-AMP provides financial assistance to MSMEs to help them enhance worker skills, adapt to economic changes, and seize emerging business opportunities. Eligible applicants, such as employers, enterprises, labor organizations, and accredited co-partners, are encouraged to submit their project proposals and required documentation to the respective DOLE regional office for funding consideration. The program supports a range of initiatives, including capacity-building, business enhancement, and productivity improvement, to help MSMEs thrive in an evolving economy.