ESPERANZA, AGUSAN DEL SUR – Twenty-four (24) tilapia growers here attended a learning session on entrepreneurship conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through its Negosyo Center (NC) Esperanza, 26 February.

Members of the Anakab Farmers Association (AFA) composed of Higaonon Indigenous People, the participants had recurring concerns on low selling price of their produce during harvest time.

“This is the reason why our NC in Esperanza saw the need to conduct a learning session to assist these growers,” said Provincial Director Jose Baron, Jr.

Baron added that the activity is in line with the Department’s to promote the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by proving Business Development Assistance through the conduct of trainings and seminars.

“The Learning Session on Entrepreneurship Program is one of the assistance offered for the MSMEs to build their foundation in operating the business and even assess the price of a commodity,” Baron added.

NC Business Counselor Charles Palen said that the activity aimed to inspire the growers as they learn to develop their business.

“The learning session covered the technical procedure in growing fish and the skills and expertise a business owner should learn to increase harvest, and managing their existing tilapia production business,” Palen said.

Regional Director Edwin Banquerigo said that to improve the industries in the region, the small businesses must be empowered.

“DTI’s learning sessions to help starting and struggling MSMEs are seeds that we plant to contribute to the development of livelihoods and living conditions,” Banquerigo said.

Said activity was conducted in partnership with the Municipal Agriculture Office. ♦

Date of Release: 12 March 2021