DTI Expands Financial Support for Filipino Businesses with P15 Billion in Loan Initiatives
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is significantly increasing financing assistance for Filipino enterprises this year, aiming to disburse P12 billion in loans to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) while introducing a new P3 billion credit facility for exporters. This move is designed to strengthen the global competitiveness of local businesses and foster economic development.
Enhanced Loan Targets for MSMEs
Robert Bastillo, president of Small Business Corp. (SBCorp), emphasized the government's commitment to broadening access to financing for small businesses. "The entire P12 billion is our target loan releases for the year," Bastillo stated. In the previous year, SBCorp provided approximately P11.2 billion in loans to MSMEs, reflecting a growing demand as the government encourages more entrepreneurs, including overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), to start or expand their ventures.
Bastillo expressed confidence in maintaining sufficient funding, noting that SBCorp can request additional budget from the Department of Budget and Management if needed. The agency also has flexibility to reallocate funds among loan programs or utilize repayments from existing borrowers to finance new loans. Micro entrepreneurs constitute the majority of borrowers, aligning with the sector's dominance in the Philippine economy, where MSMEs represent about 90 percent of all business establishments.
Rising Support for Women-Led Businesses
The number of women borrowers has been steadily increasing following the launch of the Women's Enterprise Fund. This initiative offers loans ranging from P30,000 to P20 million at a one percent monthly interest rate, with a one-year grace period on principal and interest and no collateral required for loans up to P5 million. Currently, loans to women-led businesses account for about 60 percent of SBCorp's total disbursements.
Bastillo attributed this growth to improved accessibility through SBCorp's mobile application and targeted outreach efforts, including collaborations with women's groups and roadshows conducted by the DTI. These efforts highlight the government's focus on empowering women entrepreneurs and expanding opportunities within the MSME sector.
New Exporters' Loan Facility to Boost Global Competitiveness
In addition to MSME support, the DTI has launched a P3 billion loan facility specifically for Filipino exporters. This program, available starting March 12, 2026, aims to assist with production expansion and equipment upgrades to enhance the country's global market position. Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque explained, "The financing program ensures that exporters have the resources to sustain this growth and expand into new markets."
This initiative comes as Philippine exports continue to show strong performance, with a 7.9 percent increase in January to US$7.1 billion, following a record $84.41 billion in 2025. Growth has been driven by robust demand for electronics, minerals, and agro-based products. The exporters' loan program complements other DTI financing efforts, such as the P2 billion Negosyo Fund for OFWs and loan programs for women entrepreneurs, which have already released around P2 billion in loans.
Government Commitment to Entrepreneurial Empowerment
During the launch event, Roque awarded checks totaling approximately P21.6 million to 15 women-led businesses, underscoring the government's dedication to supporting women entrepreneurs and broadening MSME opportunities. This comprehensive approach to financing reflects a strategic effort to bolster the Philippine economy through targeted support for key business sectors.
