Bay, Laguna – On July 11, 2024, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Laguna, through its Negosyo Center Bay, celebrated the MSME Week by hosting a highly impactful webinar titled “MSME E-volution Shift: Upgrade from Offline to Online.” This event aimed to drive the digital transformation of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the nation, equipping them with the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive in the digital age.

The webinar featured Ms. Lyka Grace A. Postrado, Negosyo Center Business Counselor assigned in Victoria, who brought her extensive experience as an online seller to the forefront. Her primary objective was to provide MSMEs with practical digital marketing tips and strategies to manage their existing Facebook pages or create new ones effectively. Emphasizing the importance of digital marketing for small businesses, Postrado covered various aspects, including the integration of fun and humor into customer engagement, the necessity of keeping customers updated and informed, and the value of customer feedback and reviews.

“Digital marketing is no longer an option but a necessity for small businesses,” Postrado stated. “It’s about creating a vibrant online community where customers feel valued and engaged. One effective strategy is to inject fun and humor into your posts, making your brand more relatable. Additionally, keeping your followers informed about your latest products, services, and promotions is crucial. And never underestimate the power of customer feedback; it not only helps improve your services but also builds loyalty among your clientele.”

Then, Postrado also provided a step-by-step guide on creating a Facebook page, ensuring participants could confidently establish their online presence. She introduced the participants to Canva, a powerful yet user-friendly graphic design tool, demonstrating its basic functions. She emphasized the importance of choosing appropriate font styles and colors in social media posts, explaining how these elements can significantly impact the readability and appeal of content. This segment of the webinar was particularly well-received, as it empowered attendees to create visually appealing social media posts that could capture and retain customer interest.

Complementing Postrado’s insights, Ms. Avegail Agojo, Negosyo Center Business Counselor assigned in Bay, delivered an essential session on consumer education. Her discussion focused on the rights and responsibilities of consumers, a critical aspect for any business operating online. Agojo stressed the importance of price transparency, citing the Price Act of the Philippines, which mandates that businesses clearly display prices to prevent deceptive practices and promote informed consumer decisions.

During the Q&A session, one participant questioned why some sellers avoid posting prices out of respect for other online sellers. Agojo clarified that this in accordance with Article 81 of the Republic Act No. 7394, the Consumer Act of the Philippines, highlighting that transparency and compliance with legal standards are paramount. She acknowledged that respect among sellers is important, but emphasized that legal obligations must take precedence to ensure consumer protection.

“Transparency in pricing is not just a legal requirement; it’s a cornerstone of any business relationship,” Agojo highlighted. “Online sellers must adhere to the Price Act, ensuring that all prices are clearly posted and accessible to consumers. This practice not only fosters transparency but also upholds fair trade practices, which are essential for the sustainable growth of any business.”

The webinar saw an impressive turnout, with over 40 entrepreneurs eager to enhance their digital capabilities. The interactive sessions, real-world examples, and live Q&A segments provided participants with invaluable insights into leveraging digital tools and effective online marketing strategies. The enthusiasm and engagement demonstrated by the attendees underscored the growing recognition of the benefits of e-commerce and digital transformation.

In addition to providing technical knowledge, the webinar emphasized the broader benefits of shifting from offline to online. By establishing a robust digital presence, MSMEs can reach a wider audience, engage with customers more effectively, and ultimately drive sales and growth. The shift to online platforms offers numerous advantages, including increased visibility, better customer insights through analytics, and the ability to provide personalized experiences to customers.

In addition to this, Postrado also shared a personal piece of advice with the participants: “Sell what you love. Ako bilang mahilig ako sa damit, pinili kong damit ang itinda ko.” This personal touch resonated with many attendees, highlighting the importance of passion in choosing products to sell.

DTI-Laguna’s commitment to empowering MSMEs through digitalization is evident in the success of this webinar. By providing practical, hands-on guidance and fostering an environment of learning and collaboration, DTI-Laguna is helping local businesses navigate the complexities of the digital marketplace. The department’s efforts are aimed at ensuring that MSMEs not only survive but thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

The webinar also highlighted DTI-Laguna’s dedication to continuous support and development for MSMEs. By documenting success stories and offering ongoing guidance, DTI-Laguna ensures that the knowledge and skills acquired during the webinar translate into real-world applications. This approach is vital for the long-term sustainability and growth of local businesses.

For entrepreneurs who missed the webinar, DTI-Laguna plans to offer similar training sessions in the future. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to promote e-commerce and digital literacy among MSMEs, ensuring they remain competitive and resilient in an increasingly digital world.

DTI-Laguna remains steadfast in its mission to foster the growth of local businesses and enhance the economic landscape across the Philippines. The successful execution of this webinar underscores the department’s commitment to empowering MSMEs through digital initiatives, providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the digital age. (ADAgojo, DTI-Laguna) ♦

Date of release: 29 July 2024

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