GOV’T ROLLS OUT LOAN PACKAGES TO UPLIFT TOURISM-RELATED MSMEs

In a steadfast effort to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the tourism sector, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led on Monday the awarding of loan packages to nine tourism-related MSMEs from the National Capital Region (NCR) and Calabarzon (Region IV-A) under the “Turismo Asenso Loan Program.”

Officially launched in July 2025, the Turismo Asenso Loan is a joint initiative of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) aimed at providing accessible and affordable capital for the development of tourism enterprises.

During the awarding ceremony held at the Marriott Grand Ballroom in Pasay City, President Marcos underscored the crucial role of the tourism sector in driving inclusive economic growth and job creation nationwide.

“Isa na ang turismo sa mga haligi ng ating ekonomiya. Nagdadala ito ng kabuhayan at pag-unlad sa libo-libong maliliit na negosyo saan mang sulok ng bansa,” the President said.

“Kaya naman, patuloy ang pamahalaan sa pagsulong ng mga programang sumusuporta sa inyo,” the President added.

Through the Turismo Asenso Loan Program, eligible MSMEs may avail loans up to P20 million with competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms facilitated by the DTI’s financing arm, the Small Business Corp. (SBCorp.)

With this financial support, the recipient MSMEs may be able to grow their business, improve service quality to highlight Filipino world-class hospitality, and create more sustainable livelihood opportunities for their families and local communities.

Aside from this, the President also cited complementary government programs such as Negosyo Centers, Go Lokal!, Tourist Rest Areas, and various trade fairs to promote local products.

“Layunin ng mga ito na gawing simple, abot-kaya, at epektibo ang paghahatid ng serbisyo at pagbebenta ng produkto,” the President said.

To ensure the program is widely accessible, President Marcos called on implementing agencies to expand loan program awareness, streamline application processes, and extend services to far-flung areas.

The President thanked all stakeholders of the tourism sectors, including workers, entrepreneurs, artists, and hospitality providers, for their invaluable contributions in promoting local culture and deepening appreciation of the Philippines among tourists.

“Saludo naman kami sa inyong lahat. Dahil sa inyo, mas lumalalim ang paghanga at pagkilala ng mga turista sa mga ipinagmamalaki natin dito sa ating bansa,” the President said.

According to the President, tourists nowadays prefer activities that connect them to local life, in which these stakeholders play a great role.