The Association of the Filipino Franchisers Inc. (AFFI) said it will launch the Certified Franchise Practitioner (CFP) program in the third quarter of 2024 to eliminate scams in the industry.
AFFI president Jaypee Morales said the initiative aims to promote ethical franchising and eliminate fraudulent businesses.
Under the program, the franchisors would undergo a certification process by attending seminars and complete modules developed by AFFI to equip franchisors with the necessary skills to succeed as entrepreneurs.
“It is our responsibility to protect the potential franchisees and the franchisors, most especially the franchising industry. These are the legitimate homegrown Filipino franchisors who do the right thing, follow the law, deliver what they promised to the franchisees,” Morales said.
The program is expected to begin in the third quarter, and AFFI anticipates 180 of its members to participate in the certification process.
“We’re looking at all the franchisors of AFFI to be a CFP. That’s 180. And then also the incoming members, maybe it could reach 300,” Morales said.
He said that the program is expected to boost the franchising industry, with a double-digit growth expected this year.
“Our economy is supported by 99.6 percent of micro, small and medium enterprises. Around 60 to 69 percent are from the franchising sector, which is also big. Because when we go out, we see a franchise brand. Let’s say this certain mall, there is a franchise brand like this. So that’s how much we see,” Morales said.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) earlier estimated that the franchising industry contributes 7.8 percent to the gross domestic product (GDP) and support two million direct and indirect jobs.
Morales also announced the launch of FlyHigh, a program designed to propel Filipino franchisers onto the global stage.
The program will equip Filipino franchisors with the tools and resources necessary to successfully enter foreign markets. By fostering international expansion, FlyHigh aims to create a more robust and thriving Philippine franchising sector.
