MANILA: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has partnered with Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC) and Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF) to develop Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

In a statement Thursday, the DTI said this partnership came into force with the signing of a memorandum of understanding with JFC and JGF on April 17 to equip MSMEs with skills and knowledge for their businesses to thrive.

‘This MOU symbolizes a partnership built on shared values, mutual respect, and a common goal. It is a testament to our collective belief in the private and public sectors in the transformative power of entrepreneurship and the profound impact it can have on individuals, families, and communities,’ DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual said.

In a chance interview at the Manila Polo Club on Wednesday, Pascual added that Jollibee would be the one to conduct the training program by ‘sharing their actual experience.’

Jollibee will also fund this initiative, he added.

‘Our role is, of course, to in
troduce them to MSMEs,’ Pascual said.

This partnership is in line with the strategies of Republic Act 9501, or the Magna Carta for MSMEs, as engaging MSMEs with large enterprises will foster linkages between small and large businesses.

‘Echoing DTI’s goals, Jollibee expressed its dedication to sustainable business practices through its ‘Joy for Tomorrow’ agenda. Crucial to a flourishing MSMEs ecosystem, this program focuses on the pillars of Food, People, and Planet, with a particular emphasis on supporting farmers’ livelihoods and community welfare,’ the DTI said.

The Jollibee learning session for MSMEs will start on April 25 at the Jollibee Plaza Building in Ortigas, Pasig City.

Source: Philippines News Agency