DTI Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona delivers a speech at the 'Mainstreaming Energy Efficiency in MSMEs' Investment Roadshow in Cagayan de Oro, with the Philippine flag and another organizational flag displayed behind the podium.
DTI Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona

Cagayan de Oro, Philippines — Emphasizing that energy efficiency is a powerful driver of growth, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) opened the second leg of the “Mainstreaming Energy Efficiency in MSMEs” Investment Roadshow on May 28. The initiative aimed to equip Mindanao’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with strategies to enhance their competitiveness and foster sustainable operations.

“This roadshow is not all about cutting costs, but also it’s about empowering our MSMEs to thrive in a changing world. Through the Marcos administration’s Bagong Pilipinas agenda, we are bringing government support closer to our entrepreneurs, making innovation and sustainability more accessible than ever before,” Undersecretary Lantayona said.

The roadshow’s opening session captivated the attendees with compelling real-world success stories of MSMEs that have significantly cut costs and improved operations through simple yet effective energy solutions.

“What we’re seeing today are real solutions for real businesses. From solar power to simple equipment upgrades, these are tangible steps that MSMEs can take to boost their operations and build a more resilient future,” Undersecretary Lantayona added.

DTI Undersecretary Blesila A. Lantayona delivers an inspirational message during the 'Mainstreaming Energy Efficiency in MSMEs' Investment Roadshow in Cagayan de Oro, with attendees seated at tables and a screen displaying her name and title in the background.

Industry experts from SOLX Technologies Inc., Magis Innovations Inc., TS-i Energy Solutions, and Corporation demonstrated practical innovations designed to help MSMEs significantly reduce their energy costs.

Each presentation highlighted real-life case studies and practical demonstrations, proving that adopting energy efficiency measures is not only feasible but also financially beneficial. Participants gained firsthand insights into how simple upgrades—like switching to LED lighting, optimizing air conditioning systems, and retrofitting equipment—can result in substantial savings.

Key discussions during the roadshow also revolved around practical steps that MSMEs can take to lower energy consumption and improve operational efficiency. Experts emphasized actions, such as regular equipment maintenance, staff training, proper insulation, and timely equipment upgrades.

Moreover, the DTI highlighted its ongoing initiatives to support MSMEs, including energy audits, financial assistance, and technology access programs, encouraging attendees to actively engage with available resources.

A highlight of the roadshow was the MSME Pitch and Showcase sessions, where local entrepreneurs shared inspiring success stories and practical solutions that have transformed their businesses. A notable example was Camp Backpackers Port Barton, which implemented solar-powered chest freezers, rooftop solar PV systems for lighting and fan loads, and energy-efficient appliances. These initiatives resulted in remarkable annual electricity savings of 45,692 kWh annually and operational savings amounting to PHP 500,800 per year.

These compelling case studies illustrated that energy efficiency is not just an abstract goal but a tangible pathway to growth, resilience, and long-term profitability. Inspired by these successful initiatives, attendees were encouraged to explore similar solutions tailored to needs of their own enterprises.

Participants attend the 'Mainstreaming Energy Efficiency in MSMEs' Investment Roadshow in a spacious conference hall in Cagayan de Oro, seated at round tables with blue tablecloths, as part of DTI’s initiative to promote sustainable business practices in Mindanao.

Through the collaborative efforts of the DTI and partner stakeholders, this roadshow reinforced the essential role of energy efficiency as a core business strategy for MSMEs, contributing to the sustainable and prosperous vision of “Bagong Pilipinas.” ♦

Date of Release: 03 June 2025

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