MUNTINLUPA CITY -- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in partnership with the Local Government Units (LGUs), launches Bigyang-halaga, Bangon MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) Program.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Director General Dr. Samuel A. Zacate launches Bigyang-halaga, Bangon MSMEs (BBM MSME) program, which aims to assist and capacitate local entrepreneurs particularly the micro, small, and medium enterprises.
One of the administration's key priorities is revitalizing the nation's MSME. MSMEs play a critical role in the Philippines' efforts to recover from the crisis brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, as these enterprises significantly contribute to the country’s economic regeneration, job creation, and poverty reduction. To heed the call of the president to the recovery of the national economy, the FDA introduces the BBM MSME program.
In accordance with the principles laid down under Republic Act (RA) No. 9501, otherwise known as “An Act to Promote Entrepreneurship by Strengthening Development and Assistance Programs to Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, amending for the Purpose RA No. 6977, as amended, otherwise known as the ‘Magna Carta for Small Scale Enterprises’ and for Other Purposes”, the FDA recognizes the need to promote, support, strengthen, and encourage the growth and development of MSMEs in partnership with the Local Government Units (LGUs) to help MSME’s within their respective jurisdictions.
Further, the FDA is committed to undertaking the following responsibilities:
a. Revisit, revise, or establish the requirements of relevant regulations, policies, and principles for good practices, including application processes for appropriate authorizations specific to supporting MSMEs;
b. Assess and, as far as necessary, update the training modules and implement mandatory training programs, in coordination with the identified LGU, other government offices, or accredited training facilities;
c. Coordinate with the identified LGUs, and as far as necessary, including Regional Development Councils or similar regional committees, and existing MSME (cooperatives) organizations, if any, for the establishments of the specific program, including implementation of the certain and mandatory trainings needs and advocacy campaigns;
d. Call on the assistance of other FDA Offices and personnel. The concerned Centers and Offices shall ensure the availability of inspection, evaluation, and training resources needed for any program that will be prescribed under the project; and
e. Perform other needed tasks or functions necessary for the performance of the above responsibilities.
To date, the FDA has already been working in coordination with certain LGUs in preparation for the full implementation of the BBM MSME program. (FDA)
