CL EXPRESS 1st Quarter 2021

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

CENTRAL LUZON EXPRESS

The official online newsletter of the
Department of Trade and Industry Regional Office III

THUMBS UP FOR YEP! : DTI-3 OIC Regional Director Leonila T. Baluyut (3rd from left) and JCI Philippines Vice President Rionyl Cercado (4th R) show their thumbs up sign

together with other officials after signing the Memorandum of Agreement to support the Young Entrepreneurs Program, in simple ceremonies held at the DTI-3

In this Issue: conference room

YOUNG ENTREPS ZAMBALES PASALUBONG DTI NE INTENSIFIES
CENTER OPENS MONITORING OF STEEL
PROGRAM LAUNCHED
The Micro Small and Medium To help protect consumers of
On February 26, 2021, the Enterprises Development construction materials in the
Department of Trade and Council of Zambales and the province of Nueva Ecija, the
Industry Regional Office III Department of Trade and monitoring team of DTI Nueva
(DTI-3) launched the Young Industry Zambales Provincial Ecija intensified its monitoring
Entrepreneurs Program (YEP) Office (DTI Zambales) opened.. of steel products in the province.
with the theme : Harnessing...

continued on page 2... continued on page 5... continued on page 6...

THE MENTORING CONTINUES

by WPT Serrano

Despite the pandemic, the mentoring program of the

Department of Trade and Industry Regional Office III still

continued through the online platform. The virtual conduct

of the mentoring program continued with the support of the

Go Negosyo Angelpreneurs, experts and the enthusiasm of

the mentees coming from the seven provinces of Central

Luzon. continued on page 3...

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

YOUNG ENTREPS PROGRAM...from page 1

Our Own Resources for the Advancement of
the Youth (HOORAY).

The Department of Trade and Industry
(DTI) regional office in Central Luzon is
encouraging young people to engage in
business ventures that could help them have
a better future and contribute to the
development of the economy.

During the regional kick-off of the Youth
Entrepreneurship Program held on
February 26, 2021, DTI Undersecretary
Blesila A. Lantayona, head of the Regional
Operations Group, cited the important role
of the youth in catalyzing the growth and
economic development of the country,
especially in this challenging times.

Amid the continuing threat of the Our agency, the DTI is here as your enabler to
coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), your full potentials. To make that happen, we
Undersecretary Lantayona said the youth is will mentor and coach you to be the best
one sector that could easily adapt to the new version of yourself as an entrepreneur. And
normal using their skills in technology. one of the best ways to prepare yourself for this
great journey is to put your mind into it,”
OIC Regional Director Leonila T. Baluyut of Baluyut said.
DTI Region 3 meanwhile asked the youth
audience to take advantage of the
innovations and new technologies such as
the internet and e-commerce to hone their
entrepreneurial skills.

Director Baluyut also assured the youth that Jerry Clavesillas, Director of the DTI Bureau of

the DTI and its partner agencies will help in Small and Medium Enterprises Development

mentoring them in their entrepreneurial (BSMED), meanwhile, discussed how the youth

journey using the 7Ms strategies in assisting can venture into entrepreneurship through the

MSMEs, namely: Mentoring, Mastery, support and help of the DTI and its partner-

Mindset Machine, Markets, Money and agencies.

Models.

During the launch, DTI-3 officials led by OIC

“Taking entrepreneurship, you are the most RD Leonila T. Baluyut signed a Memorandum

capable of using the internet to your of Understanding with the JCI Philippines

advantage. Make the most out of it and we, as regional officials led by Rionyl Cercado to

part of the government, are here to support partner in youth entrepreneurship

you. development activities.

PAGE 2

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

MENTORING CONTINUES...from page 1 DTI-3 meets with
tarlac governor
Based on a report of the SME Development
Division, in 2020, a total of 87 mentees from
the different parts of Central Luzon
participated and graduated from the Kapatid
Mentor Micro Enterprises (KMME) program
of DTI-3.

For 2021, the mentoring program was
continued and included the Money Market
Encounter or MME to enable mentees to be
trained on how to avail and manage financial
packages to support their enterprises.

A total of 47 mentees are set to graduate
from the first batch of the online KMME-
MME 2021 on May 21, 2021. The graduates
actively participate in the ten module course
and will prepare their business
improvement plan (BIP) before a panel of
experts.

With CoVid-19 affecting businesses all over DTI officials meet Gov. Susan A. Yap. DTI-3
the world, KMME becomes more relevant OIC Regional Director Leonila T. Baluyut
and necessary although in the virtual or (seated right), OIC ARD Brigida T. Pili (seated
online format now. The KMME-MME left), Tarlac Provincial Director Agnes B.
Online is developed as a practical delivery Ramirez (standing left) and key officials of DTI
mechanism for the same mentorship and the Central Luzon Growth Corridor
modules to be used to propel MSMEs to Foundation Inc (CLGCFI) met with Tarlac
survive and grow in spite of the slower Governor and CLGCFI President Susan A. Yap
economic activity in the country. on February 17, 2021 at the Tarlac Provincial
Capitol to discuss and set directions for their
In the KMME-MME program, mentees are projects. Under the leadership of Governor Yap,
expected to present their Business the CLGCFI has partnered with DTI-3 on
Improvement Plan (BIP) to an expanded programs on investments, local and
panel of evaluators composed of international trade missions, and trade fairs,
representatives from banks, online market among others. Director Baluyut also presented
platforms, and other business support to Governor Yap the accomplishment report of
organizations. Coaching is added to the CLGCFI for 2020.
program to assist the mentees during the
drafting of their BIPs and improve their
materials and presentation skills.

PAGE 3

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

Vol. 7

women's month
trade fair held in

tarlac

In line with the celebration of Women's Month, DTI
Tarlac provincial office honored and provided support
to women micro small and medium entrepreneurs
(MSMEs) of the province who have proven their
resilience during this time of pandemic. The activity is
also being held to help mainstream the products of
women entrepreneurs and widen their market. The
trade fair was held from March 4-31, 2021 at SM City
Tarlac and participated in by eight (8) women-
owned/women-managed MSMEs. The fair has so
generated a total sales amounting to P65,859.00

PAGE 4

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

DTI ZAMBALES, MSMEDC OPEN
PASALUBONG CENTER

The Department of Trade and Industry
Zambales Provincial Office (DTI Zambales)
and the Zambales Micro Small and Medium
Development Council (MSMEDC) opened
the newest Pasalubong Center in Iba,
Zambales on February 24, 2021. The Center,
which is strategically located near the
Provincial Capitol, features the best food
and non-food products of the region.

The opening and ceremonial ribbon-cutting DTI-3 OIC RD Leonila Baluyut (2nd R) and Zambales
ceremony was led by Zambales Provincial Provincial Administrator Jun Omar Ebdane (leftmost) lead the
Administrator Jun Omar Ebdane, DTI-3 opening of the Zambales Pasalubong Center in Iba, Zambales.
OIC Regional Director Leonila Baluyut, DTI Joining them are Benjamin Farin Jr. (rightmost), DTI
Zambales Provincial Director Enrique Zambales OIC PD Enrique Tacbad and Philip Camara of the
Tacbad, Zambales MSMEDC Chairman Camara Foundation.
Benjamin Farin Jr., Dr. Agustin O. Camara
Foundation Inc. President Philip Camara, MSMEs through capability building, product
other key officials, MSMEs and consumer development, intellectual property
groups. At least 26 MSMEs selling food and registration, brand development, mentoring,
non-food items displayed their products at and other business development assistance to
the Pasalubong Center, including mango- level up the MSMEs of Zambales and the
based products, sweets and delicacies, whole of Region 3. Chairman Farin of the
homemade condiments, wines, and Zambales MSMEDC said that the
souvenir items. establishment of a strategically located
Pasalubong Center in the heart of Iba,
During the opening program, Administrator Zambales is a dream come true for him and
Ebdane emphasized the need for the the MSMEs of the province. He also expressed
Pasalubong Center to support local products his gratitude for the kindness of the Camara
and MSMEs of the province. He assured the family who provided the area to the Center. He
DTI that he will urge the provincial suggested to his fellow MSMEs to continue
government and other offices to patronize improving their products to contribute to the
the products displayed at the center. recovery of the local economy. OIC PD Tacbad
Director Baluyut of DTI-3 thanked the added that the recent Halal Certification of
Camara Foundation of Iba, Zambales for four MSMEs in the province: Green Thumb
accommodating the Center in its area. She Agri Products, Sonia’s Sweets, Cora’s Cashew
further stressed the need to improve the Delights, and Mistica Dairy Products, shows
branding of Zambales products to widen its the quality and readiness of the products of the
market and increase the income of local province to reach not only the local market but
MSMEs. She also noted that during this also the foreign market as well
time, online presence is important to gain
customers and sell products.

Director Baluyut also conveyed that the DTI
has always been ready to support local

PAGE 5

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

DTI-NUEVA ECIJA INTENSIFIES MONITORING OF

STEEL BARS, MANDATORY PRODUCTS

By: Marben De Jesus

Despite the threat of the COVID-19
pandemic, the Department of Trade and
Industry-Nueva Ecija Provincial Office
regularly conducted weekly monitoring and
enforcement activities against the
proliferation and selling of uncertified
mandatory products. For the month of
January 2021, the monitoring team headed
by Romeo Eusebio E. Faronilo, Division
Chief of the Consumer Protection Division
of DTI-Nueva Ecija, visited and inspected a
total of 28 hardware stores in the province.
The team checked the presence of approved
PS or ICC marks attached to the products
covered under mandatory certification
particularly steel bars (deformed and
rerolled). Other Construction materials like
cement, angle bar, UPVC pipes, and other
electrical products were inspected to ensure
compliance with PS and ICC- related laws.
The PS and ICC marks guarantee a consumer
that a product has undertaken extensive
safety and performance inspection prior to
its sale and distribution.

Upon thorough verification/ inspection, it
was found out that all establishments/
hardware stores monitored selling
mandatory products were compliant with
product standards law and sell only those
bearing the approved logos/markings.

The CPD enforcement team as part also of
their information and advocacy campaign to
ensure that consumers are protected against
the marketing of goods that are hazardous to
life and health also distributed information
materials like Directory of BPS approved
logos for steel bars and angle bars and a list of
products covered under the mandatory
certification.

By virtue of the authority to enforce and
implement Trade and Industry laws, DTI
may confiscate uncertified products and
impose penalties on the erring
establishments.

PAGE 6

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

NEGOSYO CENTER SAN LUIS

AURORA CAPACITATE

YOUNG TESDA STUDENTS

THROUGH ENTREP TRAINING

by : Florelyn A. Caniete

Upon a formal request and coordination of the TESDA Aurora
Provincial Office, Negosyo Center San Luis conducted and
facilitated a 3-day Entrepreneurship Training and Seminar
last February 2021 to support the Young TESDA students
from San Luis, Aurora in fulfilling their dreams of having
their own service enterprises in the near future.

Youth awareness and engagement in entrepreneurship are
significant factors in social and community development, as
well as in the cultural and economic progress of the society.
The officers of Negosyo Center San Luis believe that working
towards youth entrepreneurship by promoting and
implementing entrepreneurial related activities can help in
addressing, and avoiding, a lot of problems currently present
in communities. Today, even students are facing an uncertain
future because of social, economic, political, and
environmental issues. They cannot predict exactly what they
need to know and the right path to go after their graduation.
Thus, opening their minds to entrepreneurship is vital to help
them navigate this uncertain future into a brighter one.

On the first day of training, Business Counselor Florelyn

Caniete conducted an Entrepreneurial Awareness Seminar

and How to Start a Business to 26 young TESDA Students in The third and last day of the activity was much
San Luis. They were oriented on the importance of starting a longer for the trainees as samples and different ideas
small business and the advantages of engaging in of possible Business Opportunities under
entrepreneurship. As they could be potential and future manufacturing, service, and trading industries were
entrepreneurs, Business Counselor Caniete discussed and provided. The Business Model Canvass topic was
promoted to them the different programs and services of the presented and discussed during the activity. This will
Department of Trade and Industry which can help micro serve as their guide for their future small businesses.
small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) develop their During the activity, participants were divided into
products or services and respective businesses in the future. five groups and were tasked to think of a business as
The DTI services such as Kapatid Mentor Micro Enterprises they created their own Business Model Canvass. Each
(KMME) Program, One Town One Product (OTOP) Next group was very cooperative and they presented their
Generation, Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program respective outputs well.
(CARP) for Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs)/MSMEs,

Shared Service Facilities (SSF), Financing/Loan Referrals to Entrepreneurship education encourages creativity,

Bayanihan Cares Program unIdnelrinSemwailtlhBtuhseinceeslsebCroartpioonraotfioWn ominenn'osvMatoionnth, ,aDndTIcollaboration for a healthy business
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PAGE 7

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

DTI-3 LEADERSHIP TURNOVER CEREMONY HELD

by : Warren T. Serrano

In simple ceremonies held at the DTI-3
conference room on January 29, 2021, the
turnover of directorship of DTI regional office
III was held.

DTI-3 Regional Director Judith P. Angeles
turned over the reins of the office to incoming
OIC Regional Director Leonila T. Baluyut,
formerly the Provincial Director of DTI
Zambales.

In her message during the turnover, RD Judith
P. Angeles expressed her gratitude for the
support of the DTI-3 associates through the
years. She noted that even during the pandemic,
the regional and provincial staff continued to
work and deliver results. She also gave some
pointers to the incoming head of the regional
office and wished her the best in her new role as
regional head of DTI.

In her acceptance, OIC RD Baluyut committed
to strive for excellence in providing services to
the DTI-3 clients. She stressed the importance of
honest hard work and commitment in serving
the people as key factors in ensuring that the
missions and mandates of the agency are being
accomplished.

PAGE 8

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

BATAAN TURNS OVER 13 FACILITIES TO SSF

COOPERATORS

by : Teresita Magtanong

DTI-Bataan turned over P5.532M worth of 12) Morong MPC – SSF on processed fruits and
Shared Service Facilities to 13 qualified food processing
cooperators on February 10, 2021, at Las 13) 13) People's MPC - SSF on meat
Marianas Restaurant, Abucay, Bataan.
The ceremony was led by DTI-Bataan Provincial
The 13 qualified cooperators are: Director Nelin O. Cabahug together with Business
1) Samahan ng mga Kababaihang Aytas sa Development Division Chief Ma. Concepcion B.
Sanico, Provincial SSF Focal Point Person Nora M.
Kinaragan (SKAK) - SSF on fruits and root Reclosado and Account Officers Cindy M. Jaime,
crops processing Marissa D. Dela Cruz and Jeypy O. Ocampo.
2) Gabon OFW Family Circle Assn. - SSF on Director Cabahug in her message said that the
machines were now donated to the cooperators
bread and pastries making who have managed and operated the units well for
3) Mariveles Bagmakers MPC - SSF on more than five years. She added that DTI will still
embroidery machine for bag makers be here to continue monitoring and assisting the
4) Capitangan Organic Fertilizers Marketing groups in order to sustain the projects, especially
Cooperative (COFMACO) - SSF on organic in product development and marketing.

fertilizer production In her testimony, Ms. Divina Canare, Secretary of
5) Balanga Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries COFMACO said " Lubos po kaming nagpapasalamat sa
(BARB) - SSF on vegetable based-products DTI sa pangunguna ni PD Nelin Cabahug sa walang
6) Alyansa ng Kababaihang Nagmamahal sa sawang pagsuporta nila sa aming maliliit na kooperatiba.
Mula sa pagdalo namin sa maraming seminars na
Abucay (ANA) - SSF on candle making totoong marami kaming natutunan, hanggang sa pagsali
7) KABAKA-Orani - SSF on food processing sa mga trade fair, sa mga machine na binigay pati ang
8) Pilar RIC - SSF on food processing technology training. Totoo pong malaki ang naging
9) Tanato MPC - SSF on fruit wines, cashew, contribution ng DTI kung bakit matagumpay ang
peanut butter, and processed coconut COFMACO ngayon."
10) Mabatang Broomakers & Vendors Assn. -

SSF on lasa broom making
11) Women MPCI - SSF on candle making
processing

PAGE 9

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

BAMBOO THE GRASS OF HOPE

#KAWAYANnaman

by: DTI ZAMBALES

“The bamboo that bends is stronger than the oak that resists.” Japanese Proverb

The Provincial Bamboo Development Industry Technical Working Group of Zambales (DENR, DOST, DA, approximately twenty (20) has.
and ten (10) thousands of
PILUFA, JCI Lambat,San Miguel Corporation and PTIPO) bamboo propagules in the
bamboo propagation. The areas
The Provincial Bamboo Development Industry to be developed include the
Technical Working Group of Zambales, critical watersheds, marginal
spearheaded by the Department Trade and areas, creek lines, riverbanks,
Industry in partnership with the Provincial DENR, and areas prone to erosion in
DOST, DA, Local Government Units (LGUs), order to improve and enhance
PILUFA, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and the natural defenses and
State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) held its resilience of those areas and
organizational meeting last March 11, 2021, to their adjacent sites against the
capacitate and plan the establishment of bamboo impacts of climate change. Also,
propagation, nursery, plantation, bamboo the project aims to uplift the
ecological park and the development of bamboo lives of the people through
processing in Zambales Province. livelihood opportunities
foresighted by the blooming
The bamboo organizational meeting provided a bamboo industry in our country
venue for participants to discuss bamboo as and worldwide.
alternative resource material and for the
government to look into bamboo by-products and continued on page 11...
their market potential, and present its work plan on
the bamboo industry.

The Pinagrealan Lauis Upland Farmers Association
and San Miguel Global Power Corporation
Foundation one of the private partners commit to
establish Bamboo Nursery and Bamboo Plantation
in Candelaria, Zambales. They allocated

PAGE 10

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

BAMBOO ... from page 10 NEW DTI-3 REGIONAL HEAD,
KEY OFFICERS MEET MEDIA
After the organizational meeting, the PARTNERS
Technical Working Group proceeded to the
advocacy signing, to further encourage and The newly installed regional head of DTI-3, OIC
motivate the participants, to bring more effort Regional Director Leonila T. Baluyut recently met
and sincere commitment on implementing virtually with the media partners of the agency in
the bamboo projects not just for the an E-Kapihan sa DTI-3 held on March 19, 2021, via
betterment of the country’s reforestation, Zoom platform.
greening, and mitigation of climate change
programs, but also as sustainable livelihood of Members of the media from print, broadcast, online
the community. media portals and television attended the E-
Kapihan to meet the officials of DTI Region 3 and
be apprised of its programs and projects, especially
during the Covid-19 pandemic.

A presentation of the accomplishments of DTI-3 in
2020 and its plans and programs for 2021 was
provided during the press forum,

Regional Office division chiefs and Provincial
officers of DTI-3 also presented their current
activities to help micro small and medium
enterprises, as well as monitor prices and supply of
basic needs and prime commodities.

Media partners were also briefed on the monitoring
by DTI-3 teams of business establishments for their
compliance to health protocols. These monitored
establishments include barbershops and salons as
well as dining establishments. The monitoring
teams post-audit these establishments for their
compliance to DTI-DOLE Joint Memorandum
Circular 20-04 and pertinent workplace guidelines.

The regional and provincial officers of the
Philippine Information Agency also participated in
the E-Kapihan.

DTI-3 E-Kapihan

PAGE 11

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

DTI, BATAAN PRICE COORDINATING COUNCIL
MEET WITH SELLERS

by: Teresita E. Magtanong

In order to intensify its effort to strengthen and support existing Local Price Coordinating
Councils (LPCCs) in the province as well as re-activate other councils, a series of activities
were conducted by DTI-Bataan Consumer Protection Division during the first quarter of
2021.

Among these activities was the facilitation of the Balanga LPCC Quarterly Meeting last
March 15, 2021. During the meeting attended by City Treasurer Joselito Evangelista, City
Licensing Permit and Franchising Office OIC Noriel Dacion, and City Agriculture
Department Head Nerissa Mateo, among others, the Council’s activities, especially its
monitoring activities and the actions to address the issue on high prices of pork in the city
was lengthily discussed. As a result, a consultation meeting with stakeholders, particularly
the pork and dressed chicken vendors of the Balanga City Public Market, was held by the
Council in the same week last March 19, 2021. The Consultation was meant to discuss the
recent pork holiday in the city, get information on the cost structure, as well as get
suggestions from the body in order to address this concern.

In relation to this and to gather all of the LPCCs of the province in one venue, DTI-Bataan
held the first session of its "Konsyumerism” Webinar Series in 2021 on March 30. Price
Act and the Roles and Function of LPCCs were tackled with participants from almost all of
the municipalities of the province present, including representatives from the Provincial
Government as well as Consumer Organizations in Bataan, Business Organizations such as
the JCI, and the Academe, including those in the nearby province of Pampanga. Adrian
Jasper Echano of the DTI Consumer Protection and Advocacy Bureau (CPAB) gave a
comprehensive presentation geared to educate stakeholders on the importance of the Price
Act, the LPCC’s significance and functions, and the possible activities that they can initiate.
DTI hopes that from this campaign, other LPCCs will be encouraged to reactivate. A total
of 179 participants joined this Zoom event.

PAGE 12

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

DTI HOLDS SMERA SESSION ON PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

by: Florelyn Caniete

The Negosyo Center in San Luis, Aurora recently conducted a SME Roving
Academy session on Product Development for MSMEs on March 3, 2021. The
activity was facilitated by Business Counselor Florelyn Caniete and was attended by
15 Existing and New Developed micro small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in
the Processed Food Industry. The seminar informed MSMEs on how to properly
label their products and how to develop good packaging to attract more consumers.
An appropriate label will allow their buyers to be informed of their choices
regarding the food they buy, to help them safely store and use. The labels also allow
the consumers to plan when to consume their products. Therefore, a good and
presentable label and packaging will help MSMEs to market their products more
easily.

The training session was done in collaboration with Dean Milber Binuya, computer
graphics art designer and owner of DMB Printing Services. During the training,
participants were provided with a discussion on the importance of the label, new
trends, and ideal packaging, as well as guidelines and standards on branding. Mr.
Binuya conducted a product clinic and also took a photoshoot of the products
during the activity to create and provide new labels and logos for MSMEs. Through
the activity, a total of 18 new labels, ten (10) improved packaging, and 13 logos were
developed.

PAGE 13

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

DTI-ZAMBALES, PROVINCIAL AGRICULTURE
OFFICE AND PUREGOLD PRICE CLUB, INC.
HOLD “DISKWENTO CARAVAN/MOBILE
PALENGKE IN THE BARANGAY”

by : DTI Zambales

The Diskwento Caravan/Mobile Palengke in the and Iba, Zambales. The provision of basic
Barangay” is one of the programs of the DTI - necessities and prime commodities and
Zambales Provincial Office especially during the agricultural products at discounted prices.
pandemic on Covid-19 wherein many
establishments have closed shops that resulted in
people losing their jobs thereby, limiting their
purchasing power. It is the best time for the agency
to address these problems by organizing Diskwento
Caravans/Mobile Palengke in the Barangays.

For better and efficient service to the consumers, Mr. Russell Quitaneg, Provincial Agriculturist,
the DTI Zambales Office has partnered with expressed his sincerest gratitude for this effort
Zambales Provincial Agriculture Office and because the activities will not only benefit the
Puregold Price Club, Inc. in conducting the said consumers but their farmer-beneficiaries as
caravans. well.

For the 1st Quarter of 2021, four (4) caravans were The Store Managers of Puregold Iba – Ms.
already conducted, two (2) in partnership with the Krisanda Aguila and Puregold Olongapo – Ms.
Provincial Agriculture Office and two (2) with Sheryl Benliro, were also very happy for having
Puregold Iba and Puregold Olongapo. these activities since their objective for this year
is to go to barangays and offer their products at
The activities were formally opened with ribbon- discounted prices. This is Puregold’s Corporate
cutting ceremonies graced by OIC Provincial Social Responsibility (CSR) project, especially
Director Enrique D. Tacbad and joined by the that consumers are afraid to go out due to the
officers of the two organizations. Inspirational pandemic.
messages were delivered by Mr. Russell Quitaneg,
the Provincial Agriculture Office, and Ms. Krisanda The caravans in partnership with the Provincial
Aguila and Ms. Sheryl Benliro, Store Managers of Agriculture Office were held on February 22,
Puregold Iba and Puregold Olongapo, respectively. 2021, in Barangay Poblacion and March 5, 2021,
in Barangay Palanginan, both in Iba, Zambales.
DTI OIC PD Tacbad welcomed and thanked the While for Puregold Price Club, the first was
consumers, the partner exhibitors, and the partner held on February 16, 2021, in Barangay
organizations for providing this worthwhile activity Amungan, Iba, Zambales, and on March 16,
thereby providing the consumers of Olongapo City 2021, at Barangay Gordon Heights, Olongapo
City. The joint undertakings were participated
by a total of 53 exhibitors who generated a total
sales of P509,287.98 and benefitting 2,555
consumers.

PAGE 14 These caravans only show that the strong
alliance and partnership among government
agencies and private sectors will benefit not
only the consumers but the retailers, local
manufacturers, and farmers as well. This
government-initiated activity will be initiated
not only during this time of pandemic but as
long as many consumers will benefit from it.

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

JCI BATAAN, DTI, INK MOU

ON CONSUMER PROTECTIN

by: Teresita E. Magtanong

In time with the celebration of World Consumer Rights Day on March 15, 2021, the
DTI-Bataan signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Junior Chamber
International (JCI)-Bataan on Consumer Welfare and Protection. The agency
recognized the need to partner with critical private organizations in order to
effectively carry out its mandate as well as implement consumer-related laws, rules
and regulations.

Before the actual signing by DTI-Bataan’s Provincial Director Nelin O. Cabahug and
JCI-Bataan’s President, Bryan Joseph A. Banzon, the parties discussed programs and
activities where the JCI and the DTI-Bataan can collaborate,such as consumer
education, information and advocacy, the DTI Certified Establishments Bagwis
Program, the Diskwento Caravan, and monitoring and enforcement. Environmental
awareness and the impact of our consumption were also touched in line with the
theme of the celebration- “Tackling Plastic Pollution”, especially as this affects JCI’s
membership of young adults ages 18-40 years old.

JCI-Bataan is a non-profit, non-governmental organization that provides
development opportunities and empowers young and active citizens to make positive
change and become future leaders in their respective fields. It has been active in its
involvement in a number of local community works as well as developmental
programs for the youth of Bataan.

PAGE 15

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

DTI TARLAC LAUNCHES NSB IN 13 LGUS

The Department of Trade and Industry-Tarlac has continued its launchings of Negosyo
Serbisyo sa Barangay Program (NSB) in the different city and municipalities of the province of
Tarlac in the first quarter of 2021. A total of 13 barangays hosted the launching and distribution
of livelihoods kids to beneficiaries in the towns of Capas, Moncada, Victoria, San Jose, Camiling,
Santa Ignacia, Mayantoc, Bamban, Concepcion, La Paz, Paniqui and the city of Tarlac.

The NSB is a program of DTI that allows a wider reach of business development assistance by
bringing government services closer to the people through partnerships between relevant local
government units (LGUs). Through the Barangay Development Councils (BDCs), the DTI shall
help capacitate Barangay personnel to provide basic business advisory or information
dissemination services to MSMEs in the locality. Also, under this program, individual package
of livelihood kits that could aid qualified affected individuals restore and improve their
businesses will be given in case of catastrophic events like natural and human-induced
calamities including health disasters like epidemics and pandemics.

Seven micro enterprises from each chosen barangay were initially evaluated and chosen by DTI
in consultation with the Municipal Mayor and Barangay Council, as beneficiaries for the
Livelihood Kits.

DTI Tarlac Provincial Director Agnes Ramirez mentioned, “The services of DTI does not stop now
that the livelihood kits have been awarded. DTI Tarlac and the Negosyo Centers in the locality will continue
to monitor and help the beneficiaries through the different business development programs.”

PAGE 16

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

DTI-NE HOLDS WOMEN’S MONTH FAIR AT SM

by: Honeylen P. Fernando

A joint activity by the Department of Trade and Industry Nueva Ecija Provincial Office (DTI NE)
and two SM Malls in Nueva Ecija (SM Cabanatuan City and SM Megacenter) marked the first
“Women Month’s Fair at SM.” The event showcased the best local products of women micro
entrepreneurs from Nueva Ecija, in celebration of National Women’s Month. The fair was held
on March 6 to 31, 2021.

The event aimed to showcase women’s craftsmanship and empower women microentrepreneurs
to recover despite the COVID-19 pandemic challenges. A total of 21 SME exhibitors from Nueva
Ecija showcased locally produced food products, gifts and home decors, and fashion accessories.

At the SM Megacenter, among the products showcased by the participating MSMEs were hand
painted Filipiniana Barong of LJRM Enterprises, stylish lady bags of Helen Rugs Inc., quality
fabric home linen of Glamorosa Enterprises, pretty style slippers of Sophie’s Footwear, freshly
baked products and sweet delicacies of Sweet Heavens, crispy mushroom chips of REDJ
Mushroom Farm and homemade soybean chili-garlic of Ajee Food Products. At SM City
Cabanatuan, among the products displayed by the participating MSMEs were craftily weaved
rattan baskets of Original na Magbabasket ng Nueva Ecija, hand painted Filipiniana Barong of
LJRM Enterprises, pretty styles slippers of Agustin Edver’s Footwear and BLF Footwear, quality
fabric home linen of Glamorosa Enterprises and Mary Mats and Rags Trading, creative bayong
of Papaya Sinagtala Coop, crispy mushroom chips of Cairon Mushroom Products, fresh and
flavored carabao’s milk of Renan’s Pasalubong, healthy turmeric products of Jilly Herbs and
Spices, sweet and spicy dried "dilis" and "pusit" of Tupad Panagarap MPC, nutritious calamansi
juice of Sycamore Citrus, crunchy potato chips of Chipipz Enterprise, sweet delicacies of Nina’s
Food Products, healthy nutribar of Nutribliss, and fresh sushi of Kylee’s Sushi.

A total of P824,247.00 and P116,808.00 sales were generated by the participating MSMEs in SM
City Cabanatuan and SM Megacenter, respectively.

PAGE 17

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

DTI – NUEVA ECIJA CONSISTENTLY STRENGTHENS THE
CONSUMER SECTOR IN THE PROVINCE

by: Teresita Evangelista

The Department of Trade and Industry – Nueva Ecija (DTI NE), in its commitment to
strengthen the consumer sector, regularly conducts Consumer Awareness and
Responsiveness Education Seminars (CARES) amidst the pandemic. It is at this time of
crisis that DTI needs to intensify its advocacy to make consumers more vigilant. The
Department prioritizes those in the far-flung areas as beneficiaries of the advocacies
and information dissemination activities like CARES.

DTI – Nueva Ecija conducted a CARES session on March 29, 2021 to different civic
societies at Carranglan, Nueva Ecija. It was a six-run brief seminar on consumer rights
and responsibilities and other consumer related laws. In close coordination with the
Public Market Supervisor of the Municipality and the President of Consumer Affairs –
Carranglan, the small group of participants were attended by the Tricycle Operators
and Drivers Association, Samahan ng Kababaihan, Presidents of Samahan ng Kabataan,
New Business Owners, Business Owners of Hardware stores and members of 4Ps in the
area.

The seminar was deemed successful as gleaned from the 100% satisfaction feedback
from the participants. This in adherence to Covid – 19 protocols of the LGU Carranglan.
This advocacy activities will be regularly conducted by DTI NE especially at this time
of pandemic to win the battle against unscrupulous traders.

PAGE 18

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

DTI-3 CARES MPC HOLDS ANNUAL
GENERAL ASSEMBLY ONLINE

by: Warren T. Serrano

More than 200 regular and associate members As agreed in the meeting of the board prior to
of the DTI-3 CARES Multi-Purpose Cooperative the General Assembly, all incumbent officials of
held their annual general assembly through an the cooperative stepped down to give way to the
online conference using the Zoom platform on election of a new set of officers; 9 Board of
March 26, 2021. Directors and 6 members each for the Election
and Audit and Inventory Committees.
DTI-3 CARES MPC Chair Enrique D. Tacbad
led the opening and call to order of the said The new set of Board of Directors and
assembly while Coop General Manager Warren Committee members elected through the online
Patrick T. Serrano served as emcee together election during the General Assembly were:
with Board Director Mary Ann Estacio of Tarlac.

DTI OIC Regional Director Leonila T. Baluyut
greeted the coop members and congratulated
the group for its services to its members and the
financial viability of the cooperative.

During the assembly, Cooperative Development As was the usual practice during the annual
Authority Assistant Regional Director Mildred S. assembly, another fun and most awaited part of
Esguerra presented the thrusts and activities of the activity, aside from the distribution of
the CDA in Region 3, as well as its initiatives and dividends, was the raffle of prizes where
capability-building programs for cooperatives winners received cash prizes ranging from P500
in Central Luzon. She also gave updates on new to P5,000. A special prize was also given to the
regulations affecting reportorial requirements members who brought his/her best smile
of cooperatives. She noted that the DTI-3 during the event. Photo entries were sent in and
CARES MPC is complying with the an online poll decided the 3 winners.
requirements of the Cooperative Code.
In closing, Vice-Chair Marcela Z. Yusi thanked
Chairman Tacbad also presented the all the pioneers of the DTI-3 CARES MPC for
accomplishments of the Cooperative in the past their efforts and dedication when the
year and the proposed resolutions for the cooperative was just at its infancy stage, for it
approval of the assembly, notably its proposal was through them that the coop has grown
for the investment in retail treasury bonds and a steadily throughout the years.
proposal for the consideration of associate
members as regular members upon their continued on page 17...
acquisition of plantilla position and submission
of intent to be regular members.

During the assembly, a total of Php 1.057 Million
worth of dividends were distributed to the
members. Certificates of recognition were also
awarded to the Most Loyal member and
members who have significantly availed of the
services of the cooperative.

PAGE 19

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

DTI CARES ... from page 16

Chairman's Report
Vice-Chair's Closing Remarks

PAGE 20

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

Source:

PAGE 21

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

Source:

PAGE 22

1st Quarter 2021 Vol. 5 Issue 1

HR CORNER BIRTHDAY CORNER

by:

ON YOUR
APPOINTMENT

CL EXPRESS
EDITORIAL BOARD

OIC RD Leonila T. Baluyut Editorial Consultant

Rowena S. Miranda Editor in Chief

Warren Patrick T. Serrano Managing Editor

Contributors: Enrique D. Tacbad YOUR ARTICLE CONTRIBUTIONS TO CL EXPRESS ARE MOST
Marben De Jesus
2021 Florelyn Caniete WELCOME!
Teresita Magtanong
PAGE 23 Honeylen Marie Fernando
Teresita Evangelista
Mark Anthony Lodrigito

PLEASE EMAIL THEM TO:

[email protected]
[email protected]