The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and TikTok Shop launched the Unlad Lokal program to help Filipino micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) thrive in the digital economy.
The initiative was introduced at DTI’s One Town One Product (OTOP) Retail and Learning Center in Makati, highlighted by a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signing between DTI and TikTok Shop.
It aims to equip MSMEs with essential skills and tools for digital commerce.
“Our partnership with TikTok Shop strengthens our commitment to providing Filipino MSMEs with the tools and resources they need to thrive in a dynamic global market. By strengthening their capabilities, we are opening more opportunities for business growth and market expansion,” DTI Secretary Cristina Roque said during the MOU signing Friday.
Building on their past collaboration through Camp Asenso, Unlad Lokal provides targeted training in content creation, live selling, and e-commerce strategies to help MSMEs grow in today’s digital-first economy.
The program also reinforces TikTok Shop’s mission to support Filipino entrepreneurs.
“At TikTok Shop, we believe in the power of community-driven commerce. Unlad Lokal is designed to equip Filipino MSMEs with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in e-commerce,” said TikTok Shop Philippines marketing lead Franco Aligaen.
Set to roll out in Metro Manila, Pampanga, Cebu and Davao, the program features immersive two-day training sessions covering key topics such as TikTok Shop 101, product listing optimization, live selling techniques, category-specific strategies and regulatory compliance.
“We’ve seen many small businesses grow on TikTok Shop, reaching thousands, even millions, of customers. Through Unlad Lokal, we want to help more MSMEs achieve that same success,” Aligaen said.
TikTok is providing post-program mentorship, content creation support, and access to advertising opportunities to ensure businesses continue to scale even after the workshops.
Unlad Lokal also aligns with TikTok Shop’s Buy Local, Shop Local campaign, which promotes Filipino craftsmanship and innovation.