THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), TikTok Shop, and Converge SME Solutions have formalized a strategic tripartite partnership to accelerate the digital transformation of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the Philippines.
The agreement, sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in Cebu City on August 25, 2026, builds upon the foundational Unlad Lokal program launched by the DTI and TikTok Shop in 2025.
This expanded initiative seeks to bridge critical gaps in technology adoption by offering small business owners streamlined e-commerce onboarding, specialized training, and affordable high-speed connectivity.
Under the agreement, each partner assumes a tailored operational role:
- Department of Trade and Industry: Leads overall policy direction and mobilizes local business participation nationwide through its network of regional offices.
- TikTok Shop: Conducts hands-on training covering live-selling strategies, content creation, and digital marketplace management to help sellers leverage discovery commerce.
- Converge SME Solutions: Supplies tailored, cost-effective internet packages designed specifically to support continuous digital enterprise operations.
DTI Central Visayas Regional Director Esperanza Melgar emphasized that the collaboration aims to do more than establish an online presence.
“We are not just getting entrepreneurs online, we are equipping them to thrive online,” Melgar stated, highlighting the goal of sustainable digital participation.
Addressing geographical and operational hurdles is central to the program. Franco Aligaen, Marketing Lead for TikTok Shop Philippines, noted that expanding beyond Luzon—starting in Cebu—allows the platform to invest directly in regional seller and creator empowerment.
Concurrently, Converge SME Solutions SVP Dindo Marzan pointed out that simplifying technology and lowering costs are essential to overcoming seller hesitation.
The joint effort comes at a crucial period for the Philippine economy. According to Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data, the national digital economy reached ₱2.74 trillion in gross value added in 2025, accounting for 9.8% of Gross Domestic Product. E-commerce represented over 32% of this figure, driving P880.46 billion in sales volume and generating 7.87 million jobs.
By deploying targeted infrastructure and training across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, the partnership aims to anchor long-term economic growth in local communities.
