BUYanihan 2026: Empowering MSMEs and Communities
The UP Institute for Small-Scale Industries (UP ISSI) successfully held the 8th BUYanihan sa Diliman from May 14-16, 2026, bringing together micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), institutional partners, students, employees, and members of the community in a vibrant celebration of entrepreneurship and collaboration.
Held at the UP ISSI ground, this year’s BUYanihan sa Diliman featured 32 merchants offering a diverse selection of food and non-food products. The three-day event served as a venue for learning, networking, mentorship, and entrepreneurial growth.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Janelle Faye Tanudtanud, Officer-in-Charge, warmly welcomed all participants and acknowledged the valuable support of partner institutions including Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), GCash, Maya, Globe, PLDT and Foodpanda for continuously supporting initiatives that empower MSMEs and local entrepreneurs. She also encouraged everyone to support local businesses and share their BUYanihan experience through social media.
Ms. Tanudtanud likewise expressed gratitude to the BUYanihan Team headed by Ms. Melanie Sangalang and the various committees whose dedication contributed to the successful conduct of the event.
One of the featured initiatives during the event was the GABAY Business Clinic led by the ISSI’s Business Enterprise Development Division (BEDD, where business coaches and mentors provided consultations and guidance to aspiring and existing entrepreneurs.
Another highlight of the event was the Digital Diskarte for MSMEs: Pagpapalakas ng Online Presence ng MSMEs information session organized by the Communities of Practice for Entrepreneurship (COPE) Program in collaboration with the DTI E-Commerce Bureau. The session provided MSMEs, entrepreneurs, and aspiring business owners with practical insights on navigating the Philippine e-commerce landscape, creating effective and responsible digital content, and utilizing advanced Meta strategies to strengthen their online presence and business growth.
Adding excitement throughout the three-day celebration were live busking performances, interactive activities, and raffle draws featuring cash prizes, Starbucks gift certificates, and three bags of goodies sponsored by Robinsons Easymart, with additional support from ISSI staff.
A major highlight of BUYanihan sa Diliman 2026 was the “Humans of BUYanihan” feature, which showcased inspiring entrepreneurial journeys marked by resilience, creativity, and community empowerment. Featured stories included entrepreneurs behind WLC XScentials, Telebrico’s Craft, Kape Lakbay, Grind Yard Coffee Co., Marcel Philippe Fragrances, Charibelle’s Breads & Pastries Shop, Nueva C Calamansi Juice Manufacturing, EFF Footwear, VERO Denim Bags, Bullynggit’s Kitchen, and Carol’s Arts and Crafts Trading. Their stories reflected how passion, perseverance, innovation, and social advocacy helped transform challenges into meaningful business opportunities.
Through BUYanihan sa Diliman, UP ISSI continues to strengthen its commitment to supporting MSMEs, promoting entrepreneurship, and fostering collaboration among government, industry, and the academic community.