MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Survival has been the key theme for Filipino small businesses this year as the COVID-19 pandemic greatly affected their operations. As challenging as 2020 has been, many entrepreneurs remain resilient and found ways to pivot to stay afloat.
As Christmas is fast approaching, you can do your part in igniting a season of support by buying from Filipino small businesses and social enterprises. Whether it’s a long overdue gift to self or for loved ones, here are 4 reasons why making this purchase is a meaningful way to participate in the tradition of giving while helping Filipino ventures recover and grow.
It helps keep jobs through continued sales for the business
According to the most recent data from the Department of Trade and Industry, 99.5% of businesses in the Philippines belong to the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that also accounts for 62.4% of total employment. Buying from them is not just about helping small businesses stay afloat, it also allows their employees to make a living to support themselves and their families.
It means sustained support for local communities and artisans they work with
Aside from providing jobs to their employees, many online small businesses also source what they sell from local communities. For example, Facebook and Instagram-based venture Enslave Kape source their coffee beans from highland farmers in Sagada, Kalinga, and Benguet. Think of the chain effect: buying from similar ventures means they can also continue to support the various communities that supply their raw materials.
Some small businesses also employ local artisans who continue to enrich Filipino culture. Take Amami, a local jewelry brand that employs craftsmen who use a pre-colonial and delicate technique called filigree. Not only are their pieces unique looking, the business also helps breathe life to an old tradition while giving artisans a source of livelihood.
You help bring attention to premium items available from small businesses
When looking for premium items, people often think of bigger brands but small businesses have a variety of items that are unique, hand crafted, or sometimes even customizable–perfect for gifting this season. And because these ventures produce limited quantities of what they sell, buyers are assured of higher quality products.
From cute plates, cups, and other home items like the ones you’ll find on The House of Blings, to handmade scented soy candles from Saan Saan PH, to elegant clothing, accessories, and bags made from locally woven fabrics offered by Anthill Fabric–there’s bound to be a unique and premium gift idea from Pinoy entrepreneurs.
Engaging with a small business can help them step-up their game
Buying from online-based Filipino entrepreneurs can feel like purchasing from a neighbor– you get to speak to the business via chat or direct messaging. You can help small businesses improve their services and products by sharing your honest feedback.
On Facebook and Instagram, you can also show appreciation for a product or service by sharing more about your favorite brands or leaving a good review on their Pages. You can also use Instagram’s Support Small Business sticker when you take a picture with your purchases.
This holiday season, further contribute to the discovery and recovery of Pinoy small businesses by posting photos or reviews of your finds on Facebook and Instagram and using the hashtag #LoveLokal.
