MANILA, Philippines - Vice President Jejomar Binay yesterday urged local entrepreneurs to help the government in its effort to ease poverty by creating more jobs.
Binay said micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) such as sari-sari stores help generate employment, thus contributing to the growth of the economy.
“Creating your own business help a lot of people. Our fellow Filipinos are also benefiting whenever your business grows,” Binay said during the 6th Puregold “Tindahan Ni Aling Puring” Sari-Sari Store Convention.
Binay cited Trade and Industry data indicating that in 2009, MSMEs created 3.5 million jobs or 63.2 percent of total jobs generated by all types of business establishments during the period.
“You are the partners of the administration of President Aquino especially in the fight against poverty,” Binay said.
Binay, Presidential Adviser on Overseas Filipino Workers’ concerns, noted that the four-day convention seeks to encourage OFWs to venture into business.
He said having a sari-sari store would help improve the lives of the OFWs and their families.
“Business venture gives them (OFWs) additional income,” Binay said.
Binay said with the help of private organizations, the Aquino administration would be able to provide gainful employment and economic opportunities for the Filipino people so that overseas employment will eventually become a matter of choice and not necessity.