The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Iloilo Provincial Office continues to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by proving them with learning opportunities to innovate, embrace sustainability, and improve their competitiveness.
On July 9–10, the provincial office conducted the Industry Cluster Enhancement Conference (ICE CON) 2026 to “equip MSMEs with knowledge and strategies to thrive in an evolving business landscape.”
The two-day conference, which brought together entrepreneurs, industry experts, government agencies, and development partners, featured a series of expert-led discussions.
The DTI said the discussions covered agriculture, food processing, product design, branding, sustainability, and circular economy —key areas that contribute to the growth and competitiveness of Iloilo’s priority industry clusters.
MSME owners gained valuable insights from Relvin B. Paragua of the Department of Agriculture (DA-6) on integrated farming systems, Jonelyn Navarra of Mountain Joe Integrated Farm on agri-entrepreneurship, and Nidalyn P. Agsaluna of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB-6) on sustainability and circular economy practices in coffee, cacao, and coconut farming.
Also, Allen Daryl F. Asuelo of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST Guimaras), Mary Jade S. Tan of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA-6), and Catherine V. Taleon of Sunbursts Balay Tablea shared their practical knowledge on food safety, processing, packaging, and the importance of Halal and FDA compliance in accessing wider markets.
To help the participants further improve their product branding and market appeal, Nicole Carmel Dg. Obong of the Design Center of the Philippines, Ratchilisa B. Tecson of LICTON Industrial Corporation, and internationally renowned lifestyle designer Percy J. Arañador discussed topics on emerging consumer trends, packaging and brand storytelling, and visual merchandising strategies.
Discussions on sustainable business practices were led by Vincent T. De Paz of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Philippines, together with industry leaders Ramon D. Uy, Sr. of RU Foundry and Machine Shop Corporation and Martin Martinez of Rezbin.
The conference was held at Sam’s 21 Hotel in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.IMT
