DTI VI doubles target of NCs to be established

In an attempt to further promote the assistance of the government to micro, small and medium entrepreneurs in the countryside, the DTI VI will almost double its earlier commitment on the establishment of Negosyo Centers in Western Visayas and Negros Island Region, this year. 

DTI VI is determined to establish 33 NCs, instead of the 19 it earlier declared, for 2017.

Some local chief executives were the ones requesting for the establishment of NCs, and even committed to provide space, in their municipality, said OIC-Regional Director Rebecca M. Rascon.

These proposed centers are distributed in the provinces of Aklan (Malinao, Malay, Makato, Libacao), Antique (Sibalom, Culasi, Sebaste, Patnongon, Libertad, Anini-y), Capiz (Tapaz, Dumarao, Panay, Jamindan), Guimaras (Nueva Valencia, Sibunag), Iloilo (Oton, San Miguel, Pototan, Btac. Nuevo, Estancia, Guimbal, Zarraga, Cabatuan, Banate, Ajuy), and Negros Occidental (Cities of Bago, Silay, Sipalay, Cadiz, Himamaylan, Escalante, Talisay).

Under the law, NCs provide services to MSMEs, which include business mentoring services, information on market and access to funding. This facilities are expected to bring in business opportunities to communities and countryside development.

The DTI has likewise created a special lane for Overseas Filipino Workers in these facilities to provide them and/or their families the options of learning entrepreneurship and/or pursue business undertakings.

Presently, there 31 NCs in the region.