The Quezon City government and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) signed on Friday, April 14, a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that will provide help to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the city.
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte and FDA Director General Dr. Samuel Zacate led the signing at the MOA for the “Bigyang-Halaga, Bangon, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (BBMSME)” program at the Quezon City Hall.
The program is under the city government’s initiatives for local entrepreneurs which will help them secure necessary documents and licenses, provide technical assistance and training on regulatory compliance, product registration, and others.
It will also streamline the registration process to make compliance with FDA regulations easier and more accessible for them.
“Through our partnership with the local government of Quezon City, we aim to provide MSMEs with the resources they need to succeed. This includes access to training, technical assistance, and support in complying with regulatory requirements,” Zacate said.
“We recognize the value of our MSMEs and their contribution to the local economy. This partnership will propel them forward as they seek the important certification from FDA to confirm the safety, efficacy, and quality of their food and cosmetic products,” the city mayor said.
Both the mayor and the FDA official agreed that supporting MSMEs will help create employment, boost productivity, and improve the quality of life of residents.
Meanwhile, the city government said that its Small Business and Cooperatives Development and Promotions Office (SBDCPO) will soon launch the Q-Certified program that will provide assistance to MSMEs for certification and registration in government agencies.
SBDCPO head Mona Yap said the city government is committed to promote the growth and development of MSMEs in the city.
The FDA is mandated to ensure the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, medical services, food supply, cosmetics, radiation-emitting devices, toys, and other products that may affect public health (according to www.fda.gov.ph)