𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃: The Department of Agriculture – Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (4K) Program successfully conducted a Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Partnership Forum at Sotogrande Hotel, Katipunan, Quezon City, from April 21 to 25, 2025.
The activity aimed to raise participants’ awareness about the different platforms to further assist the 4K Indigenous Peoples’ Organizations (IPOs) in engaging with market opportunities and potential collaborations with both government and private sector stakeholders to enhance the livelihood of Indigenous Peoples (IPs).
During the activity, representatives from government agencies and private companies were invited to share insights on how IPOs can develop partnerships, comply with relevant guidelines, and enhance their enterprise capabilities. The event also provided a valuable opportunity for direct interaction, allowing participants to raise questions and gain a deeper understanding of the processes involved in partnering with these institutions.
Mr. Fermin Rabano, President of Fabricraft Handicrafts Trading, introduced their company and shared the products they produce using abaca as the primary raw material. He emphasized that this kind of initiative presents a great opportunity for other IPOs to explore similar collaborations and scale up their production efforts.
Mr. Jonathan David Laxamana from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provided an overview of the Philippine MSME sector, highlighting existing policies and programs that support the growth of micro and small enterprises. Following this, Mr. Johnlu Koa, CEO of The French Baker Inc., shared his entrepreneurial journey—from humble beginnings to leading one of the most successful bakery chains in the country. He also discussed the innovative practices his company pioneered and how these contributed to its expansion and success.
Mr. Jerico Namoro, Director of DTI’s One Town One Product (OTOP) Program, presented the OTOP framework and explained how IPOs can collaborate through the 4K program. He detailed the requirements and procedures needed for Indigenous Peoples’ products to be included in the OTOP system, with the goal of helping them access wider markets and support.
On the following day, Mr. Gary Bontille from the National Food Authority (NFA) Central Office discussed the Palay Procurement Program, including the eligibility criteria, required volume, and fair pricing mechanism for palay. He also explained the Memorandum of Understanding between the 4K Program and NFA, emphasizing the logistics involved and how the partnership aims to ensure equitable market access for IP farmers
Mr. Manny Torejon, Business Development Manager of Ueshima Coffee Company (UCC), spoke about the company’s legacy and vision. He expressed strong interest in the coffee production capacities of various regions and explored how UCC could support and collaborate with local producers, especially within IP communities.
On the final day of the forum, Mr. Jeffrey Paulo Eugenio, Senior Program Officer of the Jollibee Food Foundation, introduced their programs and presented ways to collaborate with the 4K initiative. He also discussed the training and capacity-building efforts required for IPOs to effectively participate in joint initiatives.
This was followed by Mr. John John Gonoon, Senior Agriculturist from the Department of Agriculture’s Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS), who discussed the KADIWA ng Pangulo Program. Ms. Danica Cunanan, Market Specialist, then introduced the Enhanced KADIWA Financial Grant Assistance Program, explaining the guidelines and documentary requirements needed to participate in this initiative.
Special thanks are extended to all participating regions for their active involvement and contribution throughout the forum. Their engagement played a vital role in the meaningful exchange of ideas and collaborative spirit that defined the event, paving the way for more inclusive and sustainable development among Indigenous communities.
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