On November 24, 2023, a significant stride toward the empowerment of small and micro-enterprises (SMEs) in Floridablanca, Pampanga was achieved through the "Nego-skwela sa Barangay" advocacy partnership project led by the Pampanga Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Council (MSAC).
This impactful project aimed to equip 25 local SMEs with essential skills in business and financial management, enhancing their capacity to sustain and expand their ventures. The training session was designed to cater the SMEs located in various barangays, aligning with the objective of widespread community development.
Municipal Councilor Manalansan emphasized the Municipal Council's unwavering support for knowledge-sharing initiatives like this, stating, "Ito pong ganitong programa ng nasyonal ay para po sa inyo, kaya wag po natin sayangin at pagbutihin ang pagnenegosyo."
The discussions were led by experts, with Mr. Ian Torno of Pampanga Chamber of Commerce, Inc (PAMCHAM) providing insights into applying finance in business. Additionally, Ms. Marylou Ramos-Tolentino of PAMCHAM delved into the computation of income and business taxes, providing practical knowledge for SMEs.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Pampanga shed light on the essential features of the Barangay Micro Business Enterprises (BMBEs) Act of 2002 and the significance of DTI registration, SMEs were encouraged to formalize their businesses.
Municipal Councilor Darren Manalansan expressed gratitude to the MSAC for spearheading such a valuable project, while DILG Pampanga Provincial Director Myra B. Moral-Soriano, CESO V, expressed hope that the SMEs would leverage the newfound knowledge to enhance their enterprises.
Representatives from Don Honorio Ventura State University and Pampanga State Agricultural University also participated, enhancing the collaborative spirit of the initiative and furthering its impact on the local business landscape.
