DTI caravan trains hundreds of MSMEs on AI, e-commerce

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) trained hundreds of entrepreneurs in high-growth areas in artificial intelligence (AI) and e-commerce during the inaugural leg of its MSME Bayanihan Caravan 2025.

The two-day event, held on July 15 to 16 at the Philippine Trade Training Center–Global MSME Academy (PTTC-GMEA), was a key initiative of the National MSME Week celebration. 

The caravan focused on enhancing the competitiveness of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through a series of training modules designed to address current business needs, covering digital tools, product development, export readiness, and taxation.

The program also offered specialized workshops to help entrepreneurs tap into emerging markets and technologies, including sessions on the Halal industry, sustainable business practices under the “Green Moves for MSMEs” program, and the use of Google’s AI tools for business growth.

DTI Secretary Cristina Roque said the initiative is part of the department’s commitment to fostering enterprise development.

“The MSME Bayanihan Caravan 2025 is one of DTI’s commitments to bring opportunities where they are needed most. We’re working closely with our partners to make sure MSMEs get the knowledge, tools, and support they need to succeed. We believe that through this, we can build a stronger and more inclusive economy,” said Secretary Roque.

Themed “Asenso Negosyo, Angat Kabuhayan: Bagong Pilipinas,” the caravan is a collaboration with the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development (MSMED) Council, PTTC-GMEA, and Go Negosyo.

Following its initial run in Pasay, the caravan is scheduled for a nationwide rollout. ♦

Date of Release: 15 July 2025