00:00The truth is undeniable.
00:03MSMEs comprise over 99.6% of all business establishments in our country.
00:13Indeed, you are the backbone of our economy,
00:17the beating heart of our barangays,
00:20and the sparks of innovation that keep our industries alive.
00:24But no business thrives in isolation.
00:30So we also recognize our development partners,
00:34from local government units to national agencies,
00:39from academic institutions to NGOs,
00:43who create an environment where Filipino enterprise can grow, compete, and thrive.
00:52Through policies, training, technology, and market access,
00:58our partners have helped MSMEs transform challenges into opportunities
01:05and ideas into enterprises that sustain families and communities.
01:13At this juncture, I congratulate not only our awardees, but also the finalists,
01:21whose hard work has fueled our economy and deepened the pride we carry as a nation.
01:29Parallel to your efforts, this administration is steadfast in building the future our entrepreneurs deserve.
01:38Through the implementation of the MSME development plan 2023 to 2028,
01:47we are fostering a business climate that encourages innovation,
01:54expands market reach, and promotes competitiveness.
01:58We are investing in skills, fortifying our digital backbone and equipping MSMEs to succeed in the global digital economy,
02:11whether through e-commerce, AI-powered systems, digital finance, or smart logistics.
02:18We also know that some of our greatest economic treasures are found far from city centers.
02:27It is found in the crops of our indigenous peoples, in the produce of our farmers,
02:36and in the creativity of our rural entrepreneurs.
02:40That is why we are bringing capacity building, financing, and market linkages closer to women entrepreneurs,
02:51the youth and community-based enterprises that reflect the best of Filipino culture and resourcefulness.
02:59And yet, beyond policies and programs, lies a truth that calls on us.
03:08The future of our MSMEs rests in our hands.
03:12If we choose to patronize our own, we keep the value we create within our shores,
03:19empowering our people and multiplying opportunities for generations to come.
03:25And as our products find their way to foreign shores,
03:30they carry with them the pride, the skill, and the excellence of the Filipino.
03:37Above all, supporting local enterprises is an act of solidarity,
03:43an affirmation of our shared identity,
03:46and a declaration of faith in the Filipinos' ability to rise to any challenge.
03:55For more information, visit www.fema.org and visit www.fema.org and visit www.fema.org.
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