The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has turned over equipment and machinery to three cooperators in Pampanga under its Shared Service Facility (SSF) program, aimed at boosting local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The recipients include:

• Don Honorio Ventura State University: Received ₱10.34 million worth of fabrication laboratory equipment.
• DOMALOUIS Farmers Association, Inc.: Awarded ₱220,000 worth of equipment for water hyacinth and seagrass production, weaving, and processing.
• Kabuhayan ng mga Kabarangay Tungo sa Tagumpay: Granted ₱220,000 worth of machines for handicrafts production and processing.

During the turnover ceremony, DTI Regional Director Edna Dizon commended the cooperators for effectively managing their SSF projects and encouraged them to focus on innovation and sustainability.

“With our secretary prioritizing MSME growth, we hope you continue to enhance these facilities, improve production efficiency, and elevate your products to compete not just locally but globally,” Dizon said.

She emphasized the importance of innovation and sustainability to maximize the benefits of the SSF program.

DTI Pampanga Provincial Director Elenita Ordonio assured beneficiaries of continued agency support through consultation, market matching, and participation in trade fairs.

“We have an agreement to monitor the proper use of the equipment, its impact on employment, and the increase in sales. Even after the turnover, we will ensure the program’s objectives are met and provide necessary interventions,” Ordonio explained.

She urged cooperators to report operational concerns and adhere to environmentally friendly practices aligned with DTI’s green economic development initiatives.

Ordonio also encouraged existing and aspiring entrepreneurs to take advantage of DTI’s training, capacity-building programs, and other business development initiatives.

To date, Pampanga hosts 52 SSFs worth over ₱100 million. Of these, 41 facilities have been turned over, with 11 still maintained by the DTI. Remarkably, all SSFs in the province remain operational.

The SSF program continues to play a pivotal role in supporting MSMEs, fostering innovation, and promoting economic growth in Pampanga.