SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA – The Department of Trade and Industry Region 3 (DTI-3) produced 48 new mentee-graduates for its Kapatid Mentor Me Money Market Encounter (KMME-MME) program. The new mentees had their virtual graduation on August 1, 2023 via Zoom platform.

They have completed 10 online modules, coaching sessions, and successfully presented their business improvement plans before a panel composed of outstanding representatives from the government, banking and financial sector, online market platforms and mentors from the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE).

The provinces of Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, and Zambales have 7 mentee-graduates each while Aurora has 6. Launched on May 16, the online learning sessions continued over a period of three months.

The KMME program aims to empower MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises) through mentorship and e-learning sessions. With it, entrepreneurs are continuously kept abreast of innovative information, skills, and knowledge needed to upgrade, upskill, and upsize their enterprises.

The culminating program was graced by DTI Undersecretary for Regional Operations Group Blesila A. Lantayona, PCE – Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion, DTI-3 OIC Regional Director Brigida T. Pili and OIC Assistant Regional Director Edna D. Dizon.

In her message, Usec Lantayona challenges the mentees to become mentors to other entrepreneurs.

“The KMME Program has again produced graduates with a mindset and values of successful entrepreneurs. You are now part of the network of more than 8000 KMME mentee graduates in the country whose objective is not only to survive but ultimately to scale up under the continued mentorship of the program’s 800 accredited mentors,” she stated.

Meanwhile, Mr. Joey Concepcion emphasized the significance of gaining insights from the constantly evolving and competitive market. He highlighted the wide acceptance of the program among 10 ASEAN countries, signifying that mentoring plays a crucial role in assisting our MSMEs to thrive in their business ventures.

On her part, OIC RD Pili conveyed her appreciation to the mentees for their dedication in completing the modules and using such knowledge as a powerful tool to level up their enterprise.

“As entrepreneurs, let us not lose our determination to win and prevail, instead let these setbacks serve as challenges for us to improve and make a difference. We must always remember that our future is not determined by the stars, but by our own sweat,” OIC RD Pili said. A second batch of KMME mentees will undergo the same rudiments of the program before the year ends. ♦

Date of release: 03 August 2023

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