Representatives from local government units, the Department of Trade and Industry’s offices, MSME support organizations, women-led and cultural/creative MSMEs, and research community gathered at Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan on December 11–12, 2025, to continue the Policy Leadership Workshop Series, which began in October 2025 at the òòò½´«Ã½ Office.
Building on earlier discussions, participants examined how gender, culture, and entrepreneurship intersect in MSME development—mapping policy barriers, reflecting on lived experiences, and collaboratively shaping inclusive and gender-responsive approaches through expert presentations, hands-on workshops, and plenary session to facilitate open-dialogue on the micro, meso, macro level issues.
The two-day activity focused on strengthening institutions, sharpening digital and financial tools, and aligning policy frameworks with the realities faced by cultural MSMEs on the ground. Discussions highlighted the role of evidence, collaboration, and locally grounded innovation in driving inclusive growth.
The series will conclude with Workshop 3 (Part 2) in January 2026, where participants will turn insights into concrete policy commitments and action plans.
The series is organized by the Philippine APEC Study Center Network (PASCN) with the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, through the APEC–Canada Growing Business Partnership, with support from the Government of Canada.
