DTI and TikTok partner to train over 350 entrepreneurs how to properly sell online. DTI Sec. Cristina Roque said the use of social media platforms is very helpful for small businesses, adding that innovation is no longer just for big corporations. Jekki Pascual, ABS-CBN News

MANILA -- The Department of Trade and Industry and TikTok Shop Philippines have formed a partnership to help micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) thrive in the digital economy.

The project dubbed “Unlad Lokal’ is aimed to train over 350 entrepreneurs on the proper way to use social media to sell their products or services. A signing of a memorandum of understanding between DTI and TikTok was held at the department’s head office in Makati.

Trade Secretary Cristina Roque highlighted the importance of the internet or social media platforms for MSMEs to be successful in business, adding that innovation is no longer just for big corporations.

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With over 99 percent of businesses in the Philippines being MSMEs, Roque said it is vital for these entrepreneurs to also be taught how to equip themselves with the right digital tools to survive and expand in the market.

“We actually want to encourage them to use the digital space to be able to generate income. Because sometimes they have work, so at night they can use also this platform to be able to generate income,” said Roque.

The first batch of entrepreneurs of "Unlad Lokal" underwent a 2-day training in Makati. They were taught e-commerce and digital marketing skills, product listing optimization, live selling techniques, and category specific tips among others.

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Sellers were also taught what words to use or not to use for product description and for those doing live selling videos.

“We’re teaching them all about signing up, navigating the seller center, be familiar with TikTok Shop and all the tools present on the platform, so then can properly get settled into the system,” said TikTok Shop Marketing Lead Franco Aligaen.

Aside from developing digital skills and improving content creation, the entrepreneurs were also taught to do the business legally and follow government policies.

“Making sure that they are following regulations from different government bodies so that when they land on the platform, they land safely and successfully,” Aligaen added.

The project also aims to support the DTI’s campaign to buy local products by offering MSMEs a platform to showcase their products to more customers.

“Unlad Lokal” is a free program which will also visit other cities in Metro Manila, as well as Pampanga, Cebu, and Davao. - with reports from Jekki Pascual, ABS-CBN News

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