Entrepreneurs reminded anew to forge cross-regional tie ups

CEBU, Philippines - Cebuano entrepreneurs are reminded once again of the need to make use of cross-regional collaboration to survive in an integrated economy.

In his recent visit to Cebu, DTI assistant secretary Ceferino S. Rodolfo expressed  confidence that Cebu has what it takes to get ahead of the ASEAN competition, however cautioned key industry players to develop tie ups with other Asian traders.

While doing external efforts to advance market penetration--regionally, entrepreneurs should also do similar effort to help the country achieve inclusive growth.

 With Cebu's excellent eco-system for innovation, and entrepreneurial prowess, it has a high potential in leading a campaign to develop more inclusive technologies, and introduce them to the less fortunate communities or the "poorest of the poor”' to give them livelihood, probably via cooperatives.

This way, job opportunities will not only be concentrated in the urban and sub-urban areas, but rural communities, farmers and fishers-folk alike should also be given equal opportunity amid the expanding market base.

 Rodolfo mentioned the innovative introduction of engineered bamboo products, which are now gaining market attention in both local and international markets, as one of the examples worth emulating by Cebuano entrepreneurs.

 Likewise, the coffee industry in the Philippines has already adopted this strategy as a good public-private-partnership (PPP) program is being done to re-capture the international coffee market, starting with Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Japan, Korea and United States.

 Meanwhile, DTI-7 regional office earlier announced to open a program that provides opportunities for farmers and producers in the communities to participate in the actual commercial value chain,

 "We will scout and develop communities around the country so their products will land in major travel retail hubs," said DTI 7 Asteria Caberte.

Caberte said communities that were already able to carve good track records will be assisted by DTI and its private sector partners to directly sell their products in the market.

These communities, she said which have huge potential to catch the taste of both local and foreign tourists will be developed to reach their capabilities in business management, quality standard, packaging, and marketing. (FREEMAN)