QUEZON CITY—Filipino women entrepreneurs who lead cultural micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are urging the government and support institutions to develop stronger, gender-responsive policies to address persistent challenges such as limited financing, uneven digital access, and unequal inclusion in business networks.
The call anchored the launch of a three-part “Policy Leadership Workshop Series” in Quezon City, which brought together 25 women cultural entrepreneurs from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
The series aims to strengthen the capacity of policymakers and support institutions in crafting inclusive programs for cultural MSMEs. It is organized by the Philippine APEC Study Center Network (PASCN) of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) and the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada) through the APEC–Canada Growing Business Partnership, with funding from the Government of Canada.
Women entrepreneurs shared the difficulty of balancing enterprise management with caregiving responsibilities and community expectations, which are often intensified for those in cultural work.
One participant summed up the struggle. “We have ideas, talent, and commitment—but no venue, no budget, and no one to back us,” she said.
Participants cited the need for gender-sensitive financing, mentorship programs tailored to cultural enterprises and support systems that recognize women’s multiple roles. They also called for establishing digital creative hubs to bridge the digital divide and creating a Council or Secretariat for Cultural MSMEs to coordinate multi-sectoral support.
PIDS president Philip Arnold Tuaño said policy solutions should reflect on-the-ground realities and be co-created with grassroots insights.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) director of the Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development Emma Asusano said cultural MSMEs are key drivers in safeguarding Filipino heritage and fostering community empowerment.
Asian Institute of Management – Dr. Andrew L. Tan Center for Tourism OIC-executive director Eylla Gutierrez noted that structural barriers like gender bias and unequal access to resources hinder the full participation of women in economic growth.
Acting deputy executive director of the DTI–Philippine Creative Industries Development Council Jo-Dann Darong highlighted the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA) as landmark legislation designed to institutionalize government support.
