UP-CIFAL Philippines supports local artisans’ caravan

24 January 2021 — UP-CIFAL Philippines Director and staff visited the Quezon City’s Local Artisan’s Caravan in Eastwood City, as a show of support and appreciation for Micro-Small-Medium-Enterprises (MSMEs).

According to Ms. Tetta Tirona, current action officer of the City Tourism Department (CTD) of Quezon City, the local government wanted to create an avenue for their MSME purveyors to continue their business operations and possibly expand their market reach despite the continuing COVID-19 pandemic.

“We all have the same aim, it’s to help these MSMEs thrive during this pandemic. These online sellers began pre-pandemic, and now we are helping them promote and boost their confidence,” Tirona said.

UP-CIFAL Philippines Director Dr. Edna Co discussed with Ms. Tirona possible collaboration initiatives between CIFAL and the local government in  fostering a healthy business climate in the city in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Quezon City local government aims to have at least three more caravan runs for this project, with the hope of  reaching more small businesses to showcase their variety of sustainable products made from renewable sources.

UP-CIFAL Philippines tendered its support to help promote the programs of the CTD, as part of its commitment to localize the SDGs through advocating local culture and economic development by opening more opportunities for MSMEs.

The initiative contributes to the goals of SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 11 (Responsible Cities and Communities), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).