ALABEL, Sarangani, Philippines – A Small, and Medium Enterprise (SME) Negosyo Caravan will be conducted by the Region 12 office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-12) on Wednesday at the Provincial Gymnasium, Capitol Complex, in Alabel town, Sarangani.

“It aims to improve access of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to government and private sector services particularly to areas where the provision of business development services may be limited, said DTI Provincial Director Nenita Barroso.

Adding that it also aims to increase awareness of MSMEs on business development services provided by the government and private sector entities.

Resource speakers from Manila who are experts in their respective fields will be invited to Region-12 to conduct briefing, training, and counseling sessions to promote entrepreneurship, improve access to credit and markets, and increase productivity and efficiency of MSMEs.

According to Barroso, topics will include Mastering Self Through Positive and Entrepreneurial Mindset, Spotting Business Opportunities, Choosing the Right Market, Basic Franchising (with One-on-One Consultant), Packaging and Labeling, and Business Matching.

“A Diskwento Caravan and Trade Fair and Product Exhibit will also be alongside the event,” Barroso said.

MSME information materials will also be provided to the participants, she added.

The activity will be attended by Micro Finance Institutions, MSMEs, private stakeholders, businessmen and other interested participants from all over the South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City (SoCCSKSARGEN) area.

The region has extensive coastlines, valleys, and mountain ranges.

Known for its river system, the region is the catch basin of Mindanao.

The system is a rich source of food, potable water, and energy production.

While Cotabato City is the regional center of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), it is actually part of the SoCCSKSARGEN region and does not belong to the ARMM.