Tourism MSMEs urged to tap funding from DTI’s SB Corp.

TO EMPOWER tourism-related micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) have signed a landmark memorandum of agreement (MOA) that will give MSMEs better access to financing and expand their presence in local and global markets. The agreement, formalized on April 7, 2025, aims to reinforce collaboration between the two agencies, paving the way for tourism-linked enterprises to scale operations, improve services for travelers and participate more robustly in the tourism value chain. Financing programs Under the agreement, tourism MSMEs can now tap into financing programs provided by Small Business (SB) Corp.

, the financing arm of the DTI. These include loans starting at P10,000, with a one-year grace period on principal and interest payments, designed to ease the financial burdens of small businesses in the tourism sector. The MOA also outlined collaboration on several fronts, including joint trade and tourism missions; promotion of local products through DTI’s One Town, One Product (Otop) in DOT’s Tourist Rest Areas; development of sustainable and creative tourism-related enterprises; tourism product integration into DTI’s Go Lokal and Otop stores; and participation in international trade fairs and cultural caravans.



“Through the MOA, we are building a bridge for our MSMEs to receive the tools and resources that they need, as well as access and exposure to compete in both local and global markets. By nurturing local businesses, we elevate the Filipino brand, showcasing our cultural heritage, creative talents and unique products to the world,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, in a statement. Trade Secretary Cristina Roque emphasized the “whole-of-government” approach of the partnership, aiming to empower local industries, promote sustainability and ensure inclusive growth beyond urban areas.

The partnership will also elevate the creative industries and cultural tourism by integrating local crafts and products into DOT’s Philippine Experience Program, which highlights heritage, arts and regional identity. MSMEs will be provided space to showcase their offerings and stakeholders will receive training through programs like the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence. A technical working group will be established to oversee the implementation and monitoring of the agreement.

/ KOC.