MARAWI CITY--The Bangsamoro Government provided P15 million in cash aid to 983 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) affected by Typhoon Paeng from January 23 and 25, 2024.

Through the Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT), the initiative aims to offer financial support to MSMEs with businesses partially or fully damaged by Typhoon Paeng, contributing to the recovery of the local Bangsamoro economy.

According to the validation and assessment conducted by the MTIT regional office, sari-sari stores and convenience stores were primarily affected.

During the distribution of livelihood assistance, MTIT’s Trade Industry Development Analyst Adnan Calim said the Bangsamoro government continues to assist local entrepreneurs in recovering from the impact of Typhoon Paeng.

“Officials identified and validated the recipients, whose businesses were destroyed by Typhoon Paeng before they received assistance,” Calim said.

He also reminded recipients to use the assistance for business purposes rather than leisure activities.

“It is essential to support MSMEs in fostering economic growth and sustainability within the region,” he added.

Baika Ebus Sandukan, 67, owner of a mini sari-sari store in Mother Barangay Bagua, Cotabato City, received P15,000.00. She expressed gratitude, stating that the amount would increase her capital for livelihood. 

"This amount is a huge help for people like me who have small businesses for additional capital. We thank the BARMM government for their support and continued programs to uplift our socio-economic status,” she said. (BIO/PIA Lanao del Sur)