Mamburao: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) distributed business kits to 32 micro entrepreneurs from Paluan and Abra de Ilog towns during the recent ‘Handog ng Pangulo: Serbisyong Sapat Para sa Lahat’ caravan in the municipality of Mamburao.

According to Philippines News Agency, DTI Regional Director Amormio Benter stated that the 552,924 business kits, part of the Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay (NSB) program, aim to assist micro entrepreneurs or small businesses with assets not exceeding PHP3 million. “The kits will help micro businesses sustain their operations and continue growing,” Benter said during the distribution on Sept. 13, as quoted in a news release of the Philippine Information Agency.

Benter further mentioned that additional entrepreneurs will be supported under the program, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s initiatives to aid local communities. DTI Provincial Director Noel Flores explained that the NSB program began during the pandemic to support struggling businesses in their recovery efforts. Observing its beneficial impact, DTI has continued the initiative by providing equipment and supplies tailored to the needs of micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Flores noted that PHP1.5 million worth of business kits has been allocated for distribution this year. Beneficiaries include Paluan fish vendor Jocelyn Panteras, who received an ice chest cooler, and retail store owner with disability Mary Ann Arcilla Fabrero, who received assorted groceries worth PHP14,900. To be eligible for NSB assistance, micro entrepreneurs must have a business permit and be registered under the Barangay Micro Business Enterprise program.