SM City Mindpro, DTI 9 Empowers MSMEs Through Business Continuity Plan Workshop

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 15 September 2026 – Reinforcing its commitment to supporting local enterprises and fostering sustainable economic growth, SM City Mindpro, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 9, conducted a Business Continuity Plan (BCP) Training-Workshop for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the region.

The initiative brought together entrepreneurs, business owners, and industry stakeholders for a comprehensive learning session aimed at strengthening business resilience and preparedness in the face of evolving challenges and uncertainties. Through the workshop, participants gained practical knowledge on how to safeguard their operations, protect their workforce, and ensure continuity during disruptions.

Leading the discussion was John Mayo Enriquez, President and Managing Partner of Ascent Consultancy, who served as the resource speaker. Drawing from his expertise in business strategy, organizational development, and risk management, Enriquez shared valuable insights on developing effective business continuity plans that enable enterprises to adapt, recover, and thrive amidst changing business conditions. 

For SM City Mindpro, the activity reflects its dedication not only as a business destination but also as a community partner that actively supports the growth and sustainability of local enterprises.

“At SM City Mindpro, we believe that empowering MSMEs means investing in the long-term strength of our local economy. Through initiatives like this, we aim to help entrepreneurs develop the skills, knowledge, and resilience needed to navigate challenges and seize opportunities with confidence. We are proud to partner with DTI Region 9 in creating learning platforms that contribute to the success and sustainability of our business community,” shared Engr. Rommel Bellen, Assistant Mall Manager of SM City Mindpro.

The partnership between SM City Mindpro and DTI Region 9 underscores a shared commitment to nurturing a resilient MSME sector, recognizing its vital role in driving innovation, generating employment, and stimulating inclusive economic growth in the region.

As MSMEs continue to serve as the backbone of local economies, initiatives such as the BCP Training-Workshop demonstrate how meaningful collaboration between the public and private sectors can empower entrepreneurs and contribute to a more resilient and prosperous Region 9.

Through programs that promote learning, preparedness, and innovation, SM City Mindpro remains steadfast in its mission of creating shared value for communities and supporting the continued growth of local businesses that drive regional development.

SM, DTI Region 9 Strengthens MSME Resilience Through Business Continuity Plan Training

In a strategic move to enhance the resilience of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), SM City Mindpro and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 9 conducted a Business Continuity Plan (BCP) Training-Workshop today, July 15, at the Ever-O Business Hotel.

 

The short program gathered nearly 60 participants composed of SM tenants and DTI-assisted MSMEs. The training is part of a broader nationwide initiative under the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between DTI and SM Prime Holdings, Inc., which aims to train 6,000 MSMEs from 2024 to 2027 on business continuity planning.

 

SM City Mindpro Mall Manager Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez warmly welcomed the participants, highlighting the importance of the workshop in today’s dynamic business environment. “This training aims to provide you with a deeper understanding of BCPs, their components, and how you can implement them effectively in your own operations,” Villa-Enriquez said. “Today’s training will equip you with the necessary tools, knowledge, and strategies to help your businesses thrive even in challenging times.”

 

Engr. Al-Zamir I. Lipae, Regional Director of DTI Region 9, underscored the value of the partnership between SM and DTI. “Business Continuity Planning is more than just a document—it’s a commitment to staying prepared, protecting your people, and ensuring your business can bounce back from any disruption,” said Engr. Lipae. “This partnership with SM Prime reflects our shared vision of building a resilient MSME sector. I encourage all our MSMEs to take this opportunity seriously. What you learn today could be the key to your business’s survival and growth.”

 

Mr. Mark F. Infante served as the Resource Speaker during the workshop, providing valuable insights and practical strategies on how businesses can develop, implement, and sustain continuity plans tailored to their unique operations.

 

The SM-DTI Business Continuity Plan Training-Workshop is a proactive initiative designed to help entrepreneurs anticipate risks and establish effective recovery strategies in the face of natural disasters, economic shifts, or other unforeseen disruptions. Through this program, SM and DTI aim to cultivate a culture of preparedness and sustainability within the MSME sector.

 

The collaboration exemplifies both institutions’ commitment to empowering local businesses and supporting long-term economic resilience in the region and across the country. (PR)