TARLAC CITY, Oct. 14 (PIA) -- Key stakeholders expressed their support in the first-ever virtual Likha ng Central Luzon (LCL).

Central Luzon Growth Corridor Foundation Inc. (CLGCFI) President and Tarlac Governor Susan Yap said it is during this pandemic that micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) must receive the needed support.

"Now more than ever, with the COVID-19 crisis, we should be able to provide support to our MSMEs especially that their livelihood was greatly affected," Yap emphasized.

Since the current pandemic may stay up until next year, there is really a need to help MSMEs and the virtual LCL is one way to achieve it.

With this, Yap commended Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as well as the partner institutions.

"We laud the efforts of DTI Region 3 and PLDT Kaasenso Program for conducting this to help promote MSMEs and provide them greater access to the markets," she expressed.

"I also commend the Philippine Exporters Confederation 3 (PhilExport 3), member provincial governors of CLGCFI and Regional Development Council for making this event possible," the local chief executive added.

Yap likewise noted the importance of the activity in widening the market of MSMEs in Central Luzon.

"It is a good opportunity for investors, buyers and exporters to see the quality products from the region's seven provinces namely Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac and Zambales," she said.

Finally, Yap assured the exhibitors of the continuous support of the partner organizations in boosting their businesses.

"Indeed, the aim of this event is to develop the technical capabilities of our MSMEs and eventually make them become exporters. Through our combined efforts, we can help them conquer the world," she assured.

For his part, PhilExport Region 3 President Francis Torres conveyed his group's support to the activity.

"With the fortitude of rise amid the challenges, we at the PhilExport support the MSMEs in their bid to rise-up and rebuild businesses," he emphasized.

Torres said the expo has significantly potential markets while promoting Filipino products.

"We, in the PhilExport has adapted the Pinas Muna Tayo Campaign in our platforms to entice consumers that there are counterpart local brands for the products they want," he said.

With this, he lauded the MSMEs' perseverance in facing the challenges of the new normal.

"I wish this venture a successful run and to all exhibitors I salute your determination to take on the challenges of this pandemic and together we will work around," he remarked.

LCL is the major regional promotion activity held annually since 1999. It serves as the culmination of a package of industry and trade related programs given to MSMEs such as training programs/seminars, business consulting, design and labeling, product development and cliniquing.

These activities aim to develop the technical capabilities of the micro and small enterprises and eventually, help them gain more market exposure and enable them to earn more.

The 22nd edition of LCL is being held from October 13-17. Products of about 100 MSMEs are viewed and sold at http://www.virtualtradeexpoph.com/expo/6/show. (CLJD/GLSB-PIA 3)