DTI, IPO PHL Champion MSME Empowerment and Agricultural Excellence at the 2025 Calauan Business Growth Summit

DTI, IPO PHL Champion MSME Empowerment and Agricultural Excellence at the 2025 Calauan Business Growth Summit

        Calauan, Laguna — The 2025 Calauan Business Growth Summit, held 15 May 2025 at the Municipal Conference Hall in Brgy. Silangan, brought together local leaders, entrepreneurs, and government agencies in a powerful show of unity and support for the micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) sector. With the theme “Empowering Local Businesses for a Stronger Economy,” the summit underscored the vital role of MSMEs in driving inclusive growth and sustainable development in the region.

A key highlight of the event was the message delivered by DTI Regional Director Marissa C. Argente reaffirming the agency’s commitment to uplifting local enterprises. The DTI emphasized its ongoing collaboration with the local government of Calauan and other national agencies to create a thriving business environment for MSMEs.

The summit also spotlighted the success of local businesses, which have benefited from access to broader markets and mentorship programs such as Kapatid Mentor Me and One Town, One Product (OTOP). These initiatives aim to build capacity, foster innovation, and ensure long-term sustainability for MSMEs.

The summit featured messages from key government officials and representatives from development partners such as Mr. Joel Caalaman of IPO PHL who shared discussions on intellectual property and Geographical Indication (GI) opportunities, and the BPLO on the recognition of top business taxpayers further enriched the program. 

At the heart of the Calauan Business Growth Summit 2025 was a renewed focus on leveraging local agricultural strengths particularly the town’s renowned pineapple industry.  Experts and stakeholders agree on the potential of securing a Geographical Indication (GI) status for Calauan pineapples—a move that could elevate the fruit’s market value, protect its unique identity and open new export opportunities.  With its distinct sweetness, aroma and cultivation methods rooted in Calauan’s rich soil and microclimate, the pineapple stands as a symbol of the town’s agricultural heritage and economic promise. 

In closing, the DTI encouraged MSMEs to continue their journey with courage and purpose: “You are not alone. The local government is with you—investing in your growth, opening doors to opportunity, and celebrating every milestone you achieve.”

The 2025 Calauan Business Growth Summit through the renewed leadership of Municipal Mayor Roseller G. Caratihan, stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in building a resilient and prosperous local economy.  (Tawingan TF, DTI Laguna PO)