The hunger for negosyo knowhow in the SOCSKSARGEN Region was evident as Go Negosyo received its largest crowd yet for the series of NegoSems (Negosyo Seminars) with the Department of Trade and Industry. What was targeted to have 500 participants far exceeded expectations as over 1,200 individuals made their way to the KCC Convention Center at the KCC Mall of GenSan last May 25 to attend the seminar.
To credit for the astounding turnout is the Regional Director for DTI Region 12 Ibrahim Guiamadel and Assistant Regional Director Dorecita Delima, who led their dynamic team in promoting and mounting the NegoSem. Even as the list of confirmed and walk-in participants grew, they ably remedied logistical concerns and were very quick to accommodate individuals who wanted to grab the opportunity to learn about starting a business.
RD Guiamadel opened the seminar proper at 9:00 AM, challenging the participants to maximize the presence of Go Negosyo’s Angelpreneurs – professional speakers and experienced entrepreneurs who have made it their advocacy to share their business knowhow to aspiring negosyantes. This was followed by Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE) Executive Director Ramon Lopez, who gave an introduction about the Go Negosyo advocacy, and an overview about the NegoSem framework. Manila-based entrepreneurs Michelle and Richard Santiago also graced the seminar and inspired the participants with the story of how they started, and are continuously expanding, Ineng’s Barbecue chain.
Angelpreneurs present for this leg of the NegoSem were no less than Francis Kong (on mindset), Luis Cruz (on spotting business opportunities), Reuel Virtucio (on product development), Ardy Roberto (on marketing), and Armand Bengco (on financial management). The seminar was hosted by PCE’s Paul Gorgonio and Ina Flores.
Participants were seen taking down notes throughout the day. Majority stayed on until the seminar was closed by ARD Delima at 6:00 PM, and eagerly expressed their gratitude for the seminar’s speakers and organizers.
The NegoSem for Region 12 is part of the series of 20 seminars organized by the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship Foundation and the Department of Trade and Industry, in cooperation with Landbank of the Philippines, National Livelihood Development Corporation, Presidential Social Fund. It is also supported by BPI Family Savings Bank, PLDT SME Nation, and Smart Communications.
