ILOILO CITY – On June 8, 2023, a momentous event unfolded as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 6 launched the Region 6 Regional Inclusive Innovation Center (RIIC) and the Integrated MSME Management Information System (iMMIS) with the esteemed presence of DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual.
In his inspiring message, DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual extended his commendations to DTI Region 6 and all the RIIC stakeholders, which encompassed government entities, industry partners, universities, weaving communities, and technology business incubators. He recognized their unwavering commitment and collaborative efforts in bringing these groundbreaking projects to
According to DTI Sec. Pascual, Region 6 has set a high standard with the establishment of the RIIC and the implementation of the iMMIS. Secretary Pascual believes that other regions can learn from Region 6 and emulate their strategies to drive digital transformation.
“The RIIC and iMMIS represent two crucial initiatives that embody our unwavering commitment to nurturing and supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Region 6,” said DTI Region 6 OIC-Regional Director Ermelinda Pollentes.
The establishment of the Region 6 Regional Inclusive Innovation Center, aptly branded as Weave Philippines, signifies a significant leap forward in propelling the country’s industrialization. Rooted in the principles of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) and digitalization, the RIIC framework is specifically geared towards supporting the development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Leveraging on the power of STI, its aim is to enhance the capabilities, skills, and market reach of MSMEs, ushering in a new era of digital transformation.
DTI’s initiative to establish RIICs has fostered a network of creative communities and innovative entrepreneurs, connecting and integrating the country’s innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem. The Weave Philippines initiative exemplifies collaboration and inclusive growth, thanks to the concerted efforts and resource-sharing of stakeholders.
“Notably, this is the first RIIC with regional coverage, spanning all six provinces of Western Visayas. The weaving and MSME communities, predominantly located in Aklan, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental, receive vital support in the form of raw materials from Capiz, Guimaras, and Antique.”, shared DTI Sec. Pascual.
Simultaneously, the Integrated MSME Management Information System (iMMIS) represents a significant breakthrough in managing and utilizing MSME-related information in Region 6. This comprehensive database management system serves as a valuable resource, providing policy directions and solutions for effective MSME information management. With iMMIS, stakeholders and MSMEs gain access to reliable, up-to-date data, enabling informed decision-making and the formulation of targeted strategies that foster growth and sustainability for MSMEs in the region.
The event also provided a platform for 17 MSMEs hailing from Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental to exhibit their products which showcased the region’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. The participating MSMEs had the unique opportunity to personally meet and greet DTI Sec. Pascual, further reinforcing the government’s commitment to supporting and promoting the growth of local businesses.
OIC-RD Pollentes expressed hope for the return of DTI Secretary Pascual to Region 6 for the upcoming launching of Region 6 as the HIMS (Health Information Management System) capital of the world, set in September 2023. ♦
Date of Release: 9 June 2023
