DTI Davao Oriental Empowers Entrepreneurs with Vital Recovery Kits
The Department of Trade and Industry Davao Oriental Provincial Office (DTI-DO) is actively supporting local entrepreneurs in their journey to rebuild after a series of devastating natural calamities. On November 5, 2025, the office distributed crucial livelihood assistance to micro-enterprises that had suffered losses from the December 2024 and February 2025 shear lines, as well as the recent doublet earthquakes.
Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginahawa (PPG) Program in Action
Through its Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginahawa (PPG) program, DTI-DO provided a significant boost to the local economy by distributing 40 livelihood starter kits, each valued at Php 15,000.00. This brought the total aid to an impressive Php 600,000. The kits were thoughtfully customized to match the specific business needs of each beneficiary, ranging from supplies for sari-sari stores and eateries to resources for gulayan (vegetable gardening) and even a fried chicken house.
Provincial Director Ma. Joycelyn F. Banlasan emphasized the program's empowering philosophy, stating, "The PPG Program of DTI aims to teach the calamity-affected MSMEs to fish rather than just giving them one." This approach focuses on providing the tools for sustainable recovery rather than temporary relief.
Building a Resilient Business Community
The impact of the recent disasters was severe. Among the 40 MSME beneficiaries, 35 reported significant stock and building damages due to the doublet earthquakes, with estimated losses reaching a staggering P300,000.00. Recognizing the need for long-term preparedness, the distribution event was coupled with a Business Continuity Planning Seminar. This seminar was designed to equip business owners with the knowledge to safeguard their enterprises against future calamities and minimize potential damage.
Local officials voiced their strong support for the initiative. Davao Oriental 2nd district Board Member Don Go Montojo encouraged micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to remain resilient, assuring them of the government's steadfast support, especially during crises. Echoing this sentiment, Brgy. Sainz, City of Mati Barangay Captain Ranila Zamora urged beneficiaries to maximize the opportunities provided and expressed hope to see their businesses thrive once again.
The beneficiaries hailed from the City of Mati and the municipalities of Cateel, Governor Generoso, Tarragona, Manay, San Isidro, Caraga, and Baganga, marking a wide-reaching effort to revitalize the provincial economy from the ground up.
