Negros Occidental Governor Bong Lacson led the celebration of MSMEs and Senior Citizens Day, honoring the significant contributions of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and senior citizens through a series of dedicated programs, services, and activities tailored to their unique needs.
The event was held at the Ayala Malls Capitol Central Activity Center with the theme: “Enhancing the Role of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises as Drivers of Sustainable Growth and Honoring Senior Citizens as Pillars of Wisdom, Strength, Social Harmony, and Resilience.”
In his message, Lacson emphasized the vital role of MSMEs in driving the province’s economic development.
“They are not only engines of growth but also symbols of grit, creativity, and community building.”
“MSMEs have always been the lifeblood of our local economy, comprising over 90% of our business establishments. They are not only engines of growth but also symbols of grit, creativity, and community building,” the governor said.
He reaffirmed the Provincial Government’s commitment to supporting MSMEs through access to markets, training, infrastructure, and digital transformation.
“We will continue to partner with the Department of Trade and Industry and other stakeholders to build an environment where our local businesses can scale up and reach broader markets—while staying proudly Negrense,” Lacson added.
Paying tribute to senior citizens, he described them as “pillars of wisdom, strength, and social harmony,” whose lives reflect the enduring values that continue to guide society.
“To our senior citizens, we honor your contributions and reaffirm that your well-being remains a top priority of the Province of Negros Occidental.”
“To our senior citizens, we honor your contributions and reaffirm that your well-being remains a top priority of the Province of Negros Occidental,” Lacson said.
During the program, ten partner People’s Organizations (POs) under the Provincial Technology and Livelihood Development Center (TLDC) that successfully completed livelihood skills training and monitoring received kitchen tools and equipment to help sustain their ventures.
Meanwhile, PGNO-assisted senior citizens were presented with the Bulawan, Pilak, and Balik Salig Awards in recognition of their continued engagement and service to the community.
Also in attendance were Board Members Rita Gatuslao and Nicholas Yulo, Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz, MSME Representative Mary Grace Rodriguez, Senior Citizen Representative and Escalante City Vice Mayor Rogelio Prietos, DTI Provincial Director Engr. Lynna Joy Cardinal, ANP Representative Christina Gaston, TLDC Head Liberty Alarcon, Provincial GAD Action Officer Marie June Castro, and representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the National Commission of Senior Citizens, among others.
