ILOCOS NORTE - The Producer-to-Consumer (P2C) program initiated by the provincial government of Ilocos Norte is proving to be a significant boon for local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), enabling them to dramatically expand their market reach. Recent sales events in Metro Manila showcased the region's products, with gross sales hitting PHP1.2 million over a three-day period.
According to Elma Gabriel, head of the provincial government's MSME office, the P2C program has been instrumental in doubling the average gross sales from PHP500,000 to PHP1.2 million during events held from July 26 to 28 in Quezon City and San Juan. "The P2C program is a big help for us to reach out to a bigger market. We stay afloat in business because of the continuing support of the government and those who patronized our export-quality products," stated Juvelyn Crusina, a local artisan from Pagudpud, in a recent interview. Crusina, who produces fashion accessories and handicrafts from coconut shells, noted that participation in government-organized trade fairs has also helped her gain resellers abroad.
Another beneficiary, Agnes Asuncion, a farmer-entrepreneur from Currimao, highlighted a 100% increase in her net profit from participating in the P2C program compared to local sales in the province. Asuncion, a former overseas Filipino worker turned entrepreneur, expressed gratitude for the government support that has enabled opportunities locally. "As a former overseas Filipino worker turned entrepreneur, I just realized that you do not need to go abroad when opportunities are waiting for you back home. I am thankful for the support of various government agencies for the provision of skills training, product development, and marketing of products," Asuncion shared with the Philippine News Agency.
The success of the P2C program in Quezon City since its inception in 2017 has led to the Ilocos Norte government being slated to receive the Presidential Awards for Outstanding Development partner this month. This award, conferred by the Department of Trade and Industry, recognizes MSMEs and development partners who have made significant contributions towards improving the business climate, enhancing access to finance, markets, technology, and innovation, as well as enhancing management and labor capacities.
Gabriel also reported that the P2C program's popularity continues to grow, with membership increasing to 70 active participants. "Our online platform is growing too," she noted, highlighting the introduction of a pre-order service to accommodate demand for Ilocos products. Further expansions of the P2C program are in discussion with other local government units in Metro Manila.