Trade officials complete training to introduce AI tools for enterprises

MANILA (ILO News) - The International Labour Organization (ILO), in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Negosyo Center Project Management Office, has concluded a Training of Trainers (TOT) programme aimed at introducing artificial intelligence (AI) to digital novice micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The hybrid training, conducted under the United Nations Joint Programme on Inclusive, Competitive and Responsible Digital Philippines (JP Digital-PINAS), brought together 36 DTI trade and industry development staff from regional offices nationwide. Participants attended online sessions in February, followed by in-person workshops held from 3–5 March 2026 in Manila.

The programme strengthened the capacity of DTI officials to support MSMEs that are just beginning their digital journey. These businesses often seek assistance with formal registration, access to financing, and improving operations to remain competitive in an increasingly digital economy.

Philippine MSMEs still face barriers to using technology for business growth. During the pandemic, small enterprises who adapted digital technologies thrived, while those that did not suffered business losses or closed.

"This embodies our commitment to equip micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with the digital tools, knowledge, and opportunities necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital economy," said Khalid Hassan, Director of the ILO Country Office for the Philippines. "Our continued collaboration is crucial to the creation of an enabling environment, where MSMEs, particularly those just starting their digital journey—can build skills, confidence, and resilience."

Through the training, participants learned practical approaches to address common barriers to digitalization among MSMEs. They were introduced to free and user-friendly AI tools that can be easily adopted by small businesses and trained on how to cascade this knowledge effectively to their clients.

Importantly, the TOT also equipped trainers to guide MSMEs in understanding both the opportunities and risks associated with AI. This includes raising awareness on responsible use, potential challenges, and mitigation measures to ensure safe and productive integration of AI into business operations.

With this new pool of trained facilitators, DTI is better positioned to support MSMEs in building confidence, enhancing productivity, and unlocking the benefits of digital transformation.

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Digital PINAS is a joint programme that supports MSME digitalization by addressing policy, regulatory, and systemic barriers to digital inclusion. It is implemented by ILO, ITC, and UNDP in partnership with the DICT and other government agencies. All joint programmes of the Joint SDG Fund are led by UN Resident Coordinators and implemented by the agencies, funds and programmes of the United Nations development system. With sincere appreciation for the contributions from the European Union and Governments of Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and our private sector funding partners, for a transformative movement towards achieving the SDGs by 2030.

For further information, please contact ILO Manila via this email.