CASH AID. Micro, small, and medium enterprise owners in Ilocos Norte pose for a photo with Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc (front, in white) during the distribution of cash aid at Laoag Central Terminal on Friday (Dec. 15, 2023). Each beneficiary received PHP5,000. (PNA photo by Leilanie Adriano)
LAOAG CITY – Ilocos Norte small-scale businesses received a stimulus program package from the provincial government to help them overcome operational struggles, some dating back to the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
On Friday, 265 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) received PHP5,000 cash assistance.
Four loan applications were also granted, or a total of PHP97,000 financing payable in one year with minimum interest.
Last year, the provincial government also provided about PHP3 million worth of assistance to sari-sari (retail) store owners.
Elma Gabriel, head of the provincial government's MSME Office, said they continue to provide various assistance to eligible enterprises.
"The program gives priority to our small-scale businesses that are engaged in manufacturing, handicrafts, retailers and services, particularly those who are owned by women, poverty-stricken individuals who are struggling to meet basic needs, elderly, and physically challenged individuals,” she said in an interview.
Part of the stimulus package are free training and capacity-building activities to enhance the entrepreneurs’ skills and productivity.
Rodalyn Macalma, a lemonade drink stall owner in San Nicolas town, is thankful for the financing aid that helps her provide daily wage to her two staff who take turns daily tending to a rented space near the town hall.
“This will inspire us further to continue so that we can be of help to others, too,” she said on the sidelines of the distribution ceremony held at Laoag Central Terminal here . (PNA)
