To further promote, support, strengthen, and encourage the growth and development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently launched a program that could further assist and capacitate them towards reaching their goals.
Dubbed “Bigyang-halaga, Bangon MSMEs (BBM MSME),” the program was launched in partnership with various local government units throughout the country so they may help local entrepreneurs within their respective jurisdictions.
The new program is in accordance with Republic Act (RA) No. 9501, otherwise known as “An Act to Promote Entrepreneurship by Strengthening Development and Assistance Programs to Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, amending for the Purpose RA No. 6977, as amended, otherwise known as the ‘Magna Carta for Small Scale Enterprises’ and for Other Purposes.”
In a press release, Dr. Samuel A. Zacate, Director General of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), said that the launch of “Bigyang-halaga, Bangon MSMEs (BBM MSME)” program is one of the administration’s key priorities in revitalizing the nation’s MSME.
“To heed the call of the president to the recovery of the national economy, the FDA introduces the BBM MSME program,” he said.
MSMEs play a critical role in the country’s efforts to recover from the crisis brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, as these enterprises have significantly contributed to the country’s economic regeneration, jobs creation, and poverty reduction.
In the same press release, the FDA has also committed to undertake the following responsibilities:
- Revisit, revise, or establish the requirements of relevant regulations, policies, and principles for good practices, including application processes for appropriate authorizations specific to supporting MSMEs;
- Assess and, as far as necessary, update the training modules and implement mandatory training programs, in coordination with the identified LGU, other government offices, or accredited training facilities;
- Coordinate with the identified LGUs, and as far as necessary, including Regional Development Councils or similar regional committees, and existing MSME (cooperatives) organizations, if any, for the establishment of the specific program, including implementation of certain mandatory training needs and advocacy campaigns;
- Call on the assistance of other FDA Offices and personnel. The concerned Centers and Offices shall ensure the availability of inspection, evaluation, and training resources needed for any program that will be prescribed under the project; and
- Perform other needed tasks or functions necessary for the performance of the above responsibilities.
As of this writing, the FDA has already been working in coordination with certain LGUs in preparation for the full implementation of the BBM MSME program.