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A new co-working space for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) is slated to open this July at the La Tabacalera Building in Laoag City. The hub will equip emerging business owners with digital resources, capacity-building workshops, and advisory services.
The initiative is a joint effort between the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, with the province’s MSME Office set to oversee operations.
Unlike typical shared service facilities that focus on production tools, the government-led co-working hub stands out for its emphasis on digital innovation. According to DTI Ilocos Norte provincial director Amelia Galvez, the space will house tech-driven equipment aimed at boosting efficiency and seamless cooperation among MSMEs.
“This facility will be a space where MSMEs can access digital resources they normally cannot afford and avail services from the MSMEO,” Galvez stated. The hub will also host workshops, talks, and enterprise support initiatives.
Backed by more than ₱3.5 million in equipment from the Department of Trade and Industry, the hub will be outfitted with a full suite of tools, such as computers, printers, HD cameras, office furniture, air conditioners, and various work essentials.
The facility is projected to assist more than 200 MSMEs across Ilocos Norte annually, offering a boost to their growth and long-term viability. With the MSME Office housed nearby, entrepreneurs can easily access expert guidance alongside the hub’s tools and resources.
A small usage fee will be collected to help maintain the facility, though services will stay budget-friendly and open to both solo users and organizations.
(Also read: Ilocos Energy Update: Renewables Push & Rural Electrification)
Government properties for free use
Another unique initiative from Ilocos Norte to boost entrepreneurship is its move to open underused government-owned properties to qualified developers at no cost or through affordable lease arrangements, allowing them up to five years to establish economic zones and industrial hubs.
Aimed at drawing in more investors aligned with the province’s key industries, such as renewable energy, the incentive program received the green light from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
Ronaleigh Bueno of the Ilocos Norte Trade and Investment Promotions Office explained that the updated investment code aims to support projects that don’t meet national incentive criteria—such as those on smaller properties. Since some provincial sites are under 25 hectares, Ilocos Norte plans to offer its own perks, like free lease deals, to attract developers.
“Over time, the long-term lease arrangements can offset the initial lease-free period, ensuring sustainability for the province,” Bueno explained.
Ilocos Norte has so far identified several government-owned sites that may be offered for free use, depending on their availability and alignment with local policies. These include a one-hectare lot in San Nicolas suited for IT or industrial projects, a large stretch of pasture land spanning over 250 hectares in the towns of Bangui and Burgos, and a commercial-industrial site in Sarrat measuring just over three hectares.
To be eligible, investors must be registered with the Ilocos Norte Trade and Investment Promotions Office, meet legal ownership requirements, align with the province’s priority industries, and fulfill criteria on capital, job creation, and social and environmental impact. They must also secure all necessary business permits and registrations.
(Also read: SNAP Sparks Energy Access in Northern Luzon)
Promoting clean energy
Ilocos Norte is cementing its position as Southeast Asia’s “Renewable Energy Capital,” with clean energy playing a major role in its roster of priority industries. Other key sectors driving local investment include agriculture and food processing, tourism and the creative economy, manufacturing, IT and business process services, mining, quarrying, and various service-based enterprises.
The province hosts more than 100 wind turbines, collectively generating over 360 megawatts of power—enough to supply electricity to thousands of households nationwide.
Under the leadership of Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, the province continues to expand its renewable energy footprint by drawing in major investments and reinforcing its push for inclusive, sustainable growth.
Sources:
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1252849
https://pia.gov.ph/ilocos-norte-to-launch-co-working-hub-for-msmes-in-2025