THE DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry-Region 11 office (DTI-Davao) will convert existing pasalubong centers into OTOP (One-Town-One-Product) shops that will showcase products of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). “OTOP Philippine Hub are the existing pasalubong centers that will be converted and improved wherein MSMEs can display their products,” said DTI Assistant Secretary Demphna Du-Naga of the Regional Operations Group in an interview earlier this week. Ms. Naga said the setting up of OTOP sites is complemented by ongoing MSME assistance programs such as Brand Equity Development, product packaging, and even financing. Rachel S. Remitio, DTI-Davao chief for SME development services, said they are targeting to have the OTOP Hub by Oct. or Nov. this year. — Maya M. Padillo

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