PB approves institutionalization of Sugbo Negosyo program

CEBU, Philippines —  The Cebu Provincial Government’s microenterprise program—Sugbo Negosyo—is now an inch away from being institutionalized after the Provincial Board on Monday approved on third and final reading a proposed ordinance institutionalizing the program.

Authored by Board Member Glenn Anthony Soco, the said ordinance was crafted to promote “sustainable, upliftment, and growth” business opportunities.

“We have seen how the program has expanded and remarkably helped countless enterprising individuals and businesses. In each and every season, we were surprised to see impressive businesses which were only starting, new and innovative products, creative business ideas, unique and one-of-a-kind products that are potentially feasible and marketable” Soco said.

The program is now on its third season with at least 500 beneficiaries so far. In season one the Sugbo Negosyo benefited 9, 853 Cebuanos while 9, 936 were given livelihood opportunities during the second season.

The Sugo Negosyo program was launched by the Cebu Provincial Government to address the extensive job loss after COVID-19 pandemic hit Cebu.

The Capitol partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 7 and the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) to realize the said program envisioned to uplift the lives of Cebunos in the province by providing them an opportunity to reboot their business or establish micro-businesses.

MCCI’s role is to provide evaluation forms, business coaches, and mentoring to the beneficiaries. DTI, on the other hand, will assist in the evaluation of the applications and provide seminars and assistance in business registrations, among others.

Under the said ordinance a P100 million budget shall be allocated in every season for the said program. Institutionalizing it means to refine and boost the implementation of the said program with transparency, accountability, and efficiency. (

PB approves institutionalization of Sugbo Negosyo program

Le Phyllis F. Antojado/FPL