GOV'T, PRIVATE STAKEHOLDERS CONVENE FOR DAVNOR MSME CONGRESS 2026

Government agencies, financial institutions, development partners, and entrepreneurs converged on July 16, 2026, at the Atrium of GMall of Tagum today for the Davao del Norte MSME Congress 2026, one of the major highlights of the ongoing MSME Development Week.

The event formally opened with opening remarks and an event overview delivered by Mr. Arturo Jr. B. Manigo, RA EnP, MBA, Assistant Provincial Administrator, who emphasized that Davao del Norte remains rich with opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises and encouraged entrepreneurs to maximize the support mechanisms available to them.

An inspirational message from Governor Edwin I. Jubahib, represented by Ms. Viviencia R. Labastida, Private Secretary to the Governor, reaffirmed the Provincial Government's unwavering commitment to strengthening the MSME sector as one of the key drivers of local economic growth, employment generation, and inclusive development across the province.

Providing a comprehensive picture of the local business environment, DTI Provincial Director Atty. Zerline T. Balleque presented the Status of MSMEs in Davao del Norte, highlighting the current landscape, emerging opportunities, and persistent challenges confronting local enterprises.

The presentation also showcased the wide array of programs and services offered by the Department of Trade and Industry- Davao del Norte, including Export Webinar Series, One Town, One Product (OTOP), RAPID Growth Project, CFIDP, SSF, CARP, Negosyo Center, and capability-building interventions designed to help MSMEs start, grow, and scale their businesses.

The afternoon sessions focused on one of the most critical needs of enterprises: access to technology, markets, and financing.

The MSME Financing and Support Forum featured government interventions from DOST, represented by Ms. Antonette Rita Marie Blanco on behalf of Engr. Judy Donna D. Nueva Ecija highlighted innovation and technology support available for enterprises, while Mr. Rodrigo O. Roble Jr. of DOLE discussed employment and livelihood assistance programs for MSMEs.

The Congress also showcased business solutions during the MSME Product and Service Showcase and Promotion, featuring innovative enterprises such as J's Green Bridge Corporation, Tagum PRINTS, and Sunstruck Solar Solutions, demonstrating how local businesses continue to embrace sustainability, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Capping off the event was the MSME Credit Access Forum, which brought together major financing institutions and support agencies. Provincial PESO Manager Ms. Gloria Excelsa S. Pamugas, PhD-DA, presented available financial assistance programs, followed by financing opportunities and lending facilities from the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), Small Business Corporation (SBCorp), Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), and MSME BDO Network Bank – Lending Center.

The DavNor MSME Congress 2026 demonstrated that when government, financial institutions, and the private sector move together, opportunities become more accessible and growth becomes more attainable for every entrepreneur in Davao del Norte.

The conversations may have ended for today, but the opportunities unveiled during the Congress are only beginning, because the next success story of Davao del Norte's MSME sector could very well be yours.

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