To minimize shipment losses and ensure products arrive in “sale-ready” condition, the Department of Trade and Industry Region 11 (DTI XI) has partnered with FAST Logistics Group to train local entrepreneurs on advanced packaging and cargo protection.
The collaboration comes at a critical time as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) prepare for a surge in trade activity and expansion into markets outside of Mindanao. On Thursday, February 26, over 70 participants from across the Davao Region—including Davao City, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao de Oro, Davao Occidental, and Davao Oriental—gathered for a virtual learning session focused on logistics resilience.
DTI XI Regional Director Romeo L. Castañaga emphasized that private-sector partnerships are the cornerstone of modern MSME support.
“Our mandate is to empower entrepreneurs,” Castañaga stated. “Initiatives like this demonstrate that we are pursuing collaborations that directly strengthen capabilities and market readiness, making our support more practical and responsive to real market conditions.”
Arriel Nengasca, DTI XI Business Development and Promotions Chief, noted that transit damage is a recurring hurdle for small businesses. “Packaging may seem simple, but it can make or break a product. This engagement helps our MSMEs prevent damage, protect their brand reputation, and confidently expand their reach.”
Amz Ortiz, FAST Senior Manager for Commercial Support and Solutions for MSMEs, led the technical discussion. The session provided a deep dive into:
-
Product-Specific Solutions: Tailored techniques for dry goods, fragile items, perishables, and irregularly shaped products.
-
Risk Mitigation: The vital role of cargo insurance in safeguarding profits against loss or mishandling.
-
Partner Selection: Why choosing a logistics provider with an integrated network is as important as the materials used for the box itself. “Peace of mind allows entrepreneurs to ship more confidently, accept bigger orders, and stay focused on growing their business,” Ortiz remarked.
This initiative follows a January roundtable where MSMEs expressed a growing need for cost-efficient, dependable logistics to support their expansion. The training is specifically designed to prepare participants for upcoming high-profile events:
-
MTE Araw ng Dabaw: March 11–14 at Abreeza Ayala Mall.
-
Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair: March 12–14 at SM Lanang.
