CALAMBA CITY, Laguna, Oct. 27 (PNA) – The Department of Trade and Industry last week launched the shared service facilities (SSF) for footwear production in Barangay Ibabang Taykin in Liliw, Laguna.
The Likhang Liliw Footwear Producers Cooperative received the P2.5-million worth of machinery and equipment consisting of a band saw; stitching, binding, roughing, gluing, shoe-lasting, and sole pressing machines.
Speaking at the launching ceremony, DTI Calabarzon Regional Director Marilou Toledo said that Liliw footwear can compete in the world market in terms of design and quality.
She added the industry is a good example that could respond to President Benigno S. Aquino III’s call for inclusive growth.
DTI-Laguna Provincial Director Susan Palo said the SSF aims to improve the competitiveness of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) by providing them the appropriate equipment to increase production capacity.
“Sa tulong ng SSF, ang mga footwear manufacturers ay hindi na kinakailangan pang umupa ng mga makina sa paggawa ng kanilang sapatos,” Palo added.
“Napakalaki po ng utang na loob namin sa DTI,” said Marietta Peñaflor, president of Likhang Liliw Producer Cooperative.
Peñaflor indicated that the current production shelter needs to be improved or refurbished.
Liliw Vice-Mayor Pablo Orioste assured the support of the local government for the cooperative, provided it will be accredited by the municipal government.
Also present at the launch were Councilor Amado Basil, Maricel Aragones (representing Congresswoman Sol Aragones), Nieva Reodica of the provincial government’s social and livelihood office, Chairman Maricris Mañusca and other barangay officials, and representatives from San Pablo Chamber of Commerce and Industry. (PNA)