UP ISSI Honored at Malacañang for Empowering Filipino Entrepreneurs
August 18, 2025 – Manila — The University of the Philippines Institute for Small-Scale Industries (UP ISSI) was honored today at the Heroes Hall of Malacañang Palace during the 2025 Presidential Awards for Outstanding MSMEs and Presidential Recognition for Outstanding Development Partners. The event was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Development Council (MSMEDC).
UP ISSI received the Presidential Recognition for Outstanding Development Partners under the category of Upscaling Knowledge and Skills for its flagship initiative, ENTRELEAD: Entrepreneurial Learning and Advisory Development Hub. This recognition underscores the Institute’s steadfast commitment to advancing entrepreneurship and business resiliency across the country through its core programs—COPE (Communities of Practice for Entrepreneurship) and GABAy (Gain Advancement through Business Advisory).
The ENTRELEAD initiative was lauded for its innovative and inclusive approach to empowering entrepreneurs at the grassroots level. It integrates technical expertise, leadership training, and business advisory services tailored to local contexts. The success of ENTRELEAD is driven by the efforts of COPE Project Leader Allysa de Guzman and GABAy Program Leader Karen Kay C. Bravo-Coballes, whose collaborative work has elevated entrepreneurial development across regions.
Equally instrumental in this achievement is UP ISSI Director Melanie Moraga-Leaño, whose presence at the ceremony signified the Institute’s institutional leadership and strategic direction. Together with De Guzman and Bravo-Coballes, Director Leaño personally received the award at Malacañang, affirming the collective vision and dedication of the UP ISSI team to national development.
Director Leaño shared her reflections on the award:
“UP ISSI recognizes the active and crucial role of MSMEs in the country, thus we will continue to serve the Pinoypreneurs by conducting research, extension, and training programs.“
The awarding ceremony was keynoted by Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin, representing the Office of the President. DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque, who chairs the MSMED Council, formally presented the awards to this year’s honorees—including development partners who have made substantial contributions to uplifting the Philippine MSME ecosystem.
This national recognition highlights UP ISSI’s pivotal role as a development partner and knowledge hub for MSME growth and innovation. It reaffirms the value of academic and government synergy in empowering entrepreneurs and fostering inclusive economic development.
As it moves forward, UP ISSI remains committed to shaping the future of Filipino enterprise—strengthening capacities, building communities, and inspiring change through knowledge and action.