Pasig City, October 13-17, 2025—Some 23 local government leaders from the municipalities and province of Antique, with the steadfast support of Senator Loren B. Legarda, are participating in the Course on Strengthening Local Support for MSME Development conducted by the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) through its Center for Governance (CFG) from October 13 to 17, 2025.

The course aims to equip local leaders with practical strategies to enhance support systems for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)—recognized as vital drivers of local economic growth and resilience.

The opening sessions featured insights from representatives of key national agencies and the academe, including Regional Director Arecio A. Casing, Jr. of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development-Region 6, OIC Provincial Director Mary Jade R. Gonzales of the Department of Trade and Industry (Antique), Assistant Regional Director Melisa S. Navarra of the Department of Labor and Employment-Region 6, and Melanie Cabotaje of the University of the Philippines Institute for Small-Scale Industries. Their presentations emphasized the importance of consultations, partnerships, and institutional support in strengthening local MSME ecosystems.

The second day highlighted innovation and technology transfer through a discussion led by the Department of Science and Technology-Technology Application and Promotion Institute. Participants also engaged in a learning visit to the Municipality of Angono, Rizal—renowned as the Art Capital of the Philippines. Welcomed by the town’s iconic Higantes and received by Mayor Gerardo V. Calderon, the group met local artists and observed how Angono integrates art, culture, and enterprise into its tourism and local economy.

The visit offered meaningful insights into how creativity and cultural heritage can complement local MSME development, inspiring participants to explore inclusive and sustainable approaches to economic growth in their own communities.