Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a game-changing tool for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Bicol, enabling entrepreneurs to improve operations, strengthen digital capabilities and access wider markets.
During a press conference Wednesday, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary Grace Baluyan said AI should be viewed as a business tool that reduces the burden on entrepreneurs rather than replacing them.
“AI is a tool. Use it to lessen the burden,” she said, noting that the technology can help MSMEs automate inventory reports, develop marketing strategies, and support business decision-making.
Baluyan said DTI complements AI adoption through coaching and mentoring programs, allowing entrepreneurs to consult experts before making major business decisions.
“For a businessman, making decisions is a long process. Sometimes what you need is just an affirmation,” she added.
Baluyan said DTI continues to collaborate with various government agencies and partners to expand capability-building programs to help enterprises embrace digital transformation.
Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) South Luzon Area Vice President Hoover Picar said the organization recently signed a memorandum of understanding that aims to mentor around 1,000 MSMEs nationwide through consultants specializing in the digital economy.
He said the initiative will initially cover 300 to 500 MSMEs in Luzon, 200 to 300 in the Visayas, and 100 to 300 in Mindanao.
Aside from digital mentoring, Picar underscored the importance of cyber hygiene training to protect entrepreneurs from online scams and cyber threats.
“What we do is teach MSMEs how to detect fake information on digital platforms. Don’t make decisions when you’re being rushed,” he said.
Picar said embracing digital technologies is essential for Filipino businesses to remain competitive.
DTI Regional Director Dindo Nabol said the agency continues to strengthen MSMEs’ adoption of technology through capacity-building initiatives by tapping local experts.
“We outsource training because we have many experts here in Bicol. There’s no need to spend more when we already have competent resource persons in the region,” he said.
In Albay, DTI partnered with Bicol University, whose Information Technology Department will train MSMEs in digitalization and digital marketing under a memorandum of agreement to be implemented in the coming days.
Graduating industrial design students from the university also help MSMEs improve product design, packaging, and labeling, while gaining practical experience from working directly with business owners.
DTI Camarines Sur is working with a logistics firm to help 10 food-processing MSMEs complete United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) registration, a requirement for selling on Amazon.
A second batch is being prepared for non-food products, including Hinagom textiles from Buhi, Filipiniana garments, and locally made bags.
In addition, DTI Catanduanes continues to conduct digitalization seminars and train entrepreneurs to use applications such as Canva for product labeling, design, and product photography, enabling MSMEs to create their own marketing materials.
The conference highlighted province-specific initiatives like Masbate’s Bicol Rodeo Academy, Camarines Norte’s expanded shared service facilities for jewelry and cacao, and Sorsogon’s “Manila Buyers to Sorsogon” program, connecting buyers to local MSMEs to boost market linkages. (PNA)