The Department of Science and TechnologyโSOCCSKSARGEN Region (DOST XII), through its Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO)โSouth Cotabato, under the leadership of Provincial Director Giselle Eve O. Siladan, joined the second leg of Project CO-FUND (Collaborative Opportunities for Financial Upliftment and Network Development): Unlocking Grants & Capital for MSMEs, organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)โSouth Cotabato headed by Provincial Director Mr. Elbert Cepecio, on August 4, 2026, at the Sto. Niรฑo Public Market, Sto. Niรฑo, South Cotabato.
Following its successful launch in Norala, the forum brought government agencies and financing institutions closer to local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), opening more doors to financing opportunities, business support, and enterprise development assistance.
Bringing science, technology, and innovation into the spotlight, DOST XIIโPSTO South Cotabato showcased its flagship programs, including the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST), and iFWD PH. Through these programs, local entrepreneurs were introduced to technology-based interventions that can help improve productivity, enhance product quality, and boost business competitiveness.
The activity was supported by Sto. Niรฑo Municipal Mayor Hon. Sulpicio F. Villalobos, who reaffirmed the local governmentโs commitment to empowering MSMEs and strengthening local enterprise development. Representatives from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), DTIโSmall Business Corporation (SB Corp.), and Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) also shared their respective financing programs and support services for entrepreneurs. #DOSTXII
