DTI-Davao recognizes social entreps’ role in nation building

DAVAO CITY, June 29 – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Davao Region is fully recognizing the role of social entrepreneurs in nation building.

Social entrepreneurs are defined as individuals who utilize and maximize their expertise in finding solutions to some of society’s pressing concerns.

Thus, they use their business ventures as their platform to address social concerns like poverty.

Considering the fact that Davao Region is home to a number of social entrepreneurs, DTI is optimistic about helping more individuals in the community where they are operating.

DTI-Davao City Field Office Director Engr. Edwin O. Banquerigo said that social entrepreneurship is an innovative solution to address social problems and help achieve inclusive growth, an economic growth felt by everyone.

“We know for a fact that some private corporations focus on profit while non-government organizations (NGOs) focus solely on social impact. As you can see, these two are in the extremes when it comes to the spectrum of social entrepreneurship. Social enterprises, on the other hand, operate at the middle whereby their performance is measured still based on profit but they take into account a positive return to society,” he said.

Meanwhile, in recognition of the social entrepreneurs’ contribution towards uplifting the lives of many Filipinos, BPI Foundation, in partnership with the Ateneo Center for Social Entrepreneurship (ACSEnt), recently launched its new project called “BPI Sinag”.

As explained by the bank, “BPI Sinag” is a business plan competition that is aimed at empowering entrepreneurs with a social mission.

Social entrepreneurs from 18 to 35 years old who have business ideas or existing enterprises that address social issues may join the competition.

Entries must be submitted not later than July 20, 2015. Aside from winning cash prizes, the top entries to “BPI Sinag” will also have access to workshops, mentorship, and financing. Five finalists will receiveP200,000 each , six-month mentoring, and access to Ateneo business incubation center.

With this opportunity at hand, Banquerigo has urged social entrepreneurs in the area to participate in the “BPI Sinag” search.

“This will surely be of great help to them considering that they will not only enjoy monetary benefits but as well as technical assistance,” he said.

Interested social entrepreneurs may visit www.sinag.bpifoundation.org for more information. They can also check their social pages (Facebook and Twitter) for updates. (DTI-11/JenMendoza)