The Davao City MSME Development Council (DCMSMED) launched the celebration of the MSME Development Week on Monday, July 9, 2026. Observed annually every second week of July, the event highlights the vital role of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in driving economic growth, creating opportunities, and building stronger linkages across sectors.
MSMEs as Economic Backbone
“As the backbone of our economy, MSMEs continue to generate employment, stimulate entrepreneurship, and contribute significantly to local economic growth,” said Christian Cambaya, acting officer-in-charge of the Davao City Investment Promotions Center (DCIPC). This year’s celebration carries the theme “Navigating the shift: Building a resilient and future-ready MSMEs,” emphasizing innovation, digital transformation, sustainability, and resilience.
Activities and Trade Exhibit
During a brief program at the City Hall grounds flag-raising ceremony, DTI Davao City Field Office City Director Atty. Lucky Siegfred M. Balleque outlined the week’s activities. From July 9 to 12, a trade exhibit will be held at the SM City Davao Annex Activity Center. “More than an exhibit of the products and services of local entrepreneurs, this will provide a platform for opportunities while businesses discover new markets, build valuable partnerships, exchange ideas, and prepare for the future,” said DCCCII president Mirasol Tiu. “It reflects what can be achieved if the public and private sectors work together with a shared vision of inclusive and sustainable economic development,” she emphasized.
Workshops and Trainings
On July 8, a financial literacy workshop for entrepreneurs will be held in the morning, followed by a network of authority training in the afternoon. A training session is scheduled for July 10 at the exhibit venue, and a culinary showcase on July 11.
City Government Support
Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, in a message read by City Councilor Myrna L’Dalodo-Ortiz, expressed the city’s commitment to MSMEs, highlighting their contributions to consistent growth and development. “Much of our progress in our community is predominantly propelled by the MSME sector, which serves as the backbone of our socioeconomic development, providing employment opportunities, fostering financial growth, sustaining various industries, and strengthening community resilience,” he said. He assured that the city government will continue implementing sustainable programs to empower MSMEs. “This year’s celebration is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to equip them with the knowledge, opportunities, and support they need to thrive in the future,” Cambaya added.
Dabawenyos are urged to visit the trade exhibit and support local businesses.
