By Jelly F. Musico
MANILA, June 12 (PNA) — Senator Paolo Benigno Aquino IV on Thursday welcomed the Senate ratification of the Go Negosyo Act, saying its swift passage before the sine die adjournment proved the Senate remains focused on performing its mandate despite the pork barrel controversy.
The Senate ratified Wednesday night, last day of session, the bicameral conference committee report which adopted the Senate version of the bill authored by Senator Aquino.
It will be transmitted to Malacanang for signature of President Benigno S. Aquino III.
“No amount of words will get the people’s trust back in the Senate,” Aquino said. “If our countrymen would see that we have been working for them despite the scandals, maybe at some point, we would be able to gain their trust again,” he added.
Several incumbent and former senators have been implicated along with other members of the House of Representatives in the alleged misuse of the 10-billion priority development assistance fund (PDAF).
“With the imminent passage of the Go Negosyo Act into law, small businessmen – micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are given a much needed boost that will lead to job creation in different parts of the country,” Aquino said.
Aquino stressed the importance of the Go Negosyo Act, saying 66 percent of jobs in the labor force are generated by the MSME sector, which in turn comprises 99 percent of all enterprises in the Philippines.
“The Go Negosyo Act gives Filipinos – from a simple housewife to ordinary employee – a chance to establish their own business that will help sustain their everyday needs and for their families,” the senator said.
The Act mandates the creation of Pinoy Negosyo Centers, under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in each city and municipality around the country.
Aquino said these Pinoy Negosyo centers are meant to make it easier for entrepreneurs to register and start up their businesses, as well as gain access to sources of financing.
In addition, the Pinoy Negosyo Centers will provide courses and development programs, training, give advice on business conceptualization and feasibility, financing, management, capability building, human resources, marketing and other support services. (PNA)