DTI Rizal, UP CFA, and ISSI unveil innovative product designs from landmark MSME collaboration

Posted: June 10, 2025
DTI Rizal, UP CFA, and ISSI Unveil Innovative Product Designs from Landmark MSME Collaboration

Antipolo City | The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Rizal Provincial Office, in a pioneering partnership with the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts (UP CFA) and the UP Institute for Small Scale Industries (ISSI), is proud to announce the successful culmination of a product development initiative that has significantly enhanced the offerings of four Rizal-based Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

This collaborative project saw talented student-designers from UP CFA work closely with select MSMEs: Yahab and Style, RDBA Bags Industry/Susana Bags, Art Meets Crafts, and Cardona Multipurpose Cooperative. The students provided invaluable assistance in developing new designs and creating prototypes, breathing fresh life and innovation into their product lines.

The rigorous design process culminated on June 2, 2025, with a final presentation of the student-designers’ proposals to a distinguished panel. The panel comprised representatives from UP CFA, ISSI, and DTI, who meticulously evaluated the creativity, feasibility, and market potential of the new product concepts.

DTI Rizal, UP CFA, and ISSI Unveil Innovative Product Designs from Landmark MSME Collaboration
DTI Rizal, UP CFA, and ISSI Unveil Innovative Product Designs from Landmark MSME Collaboration
DTI Rizal, UP CFA, and ISSI Unveil Innovative Product Designs from Landmark MSME Collaboration

“This collaboration exemplifies the power of synergy between government, academe, and industry,” said DTI Rizal Provincial Director Cleotilde Duran. “By harnessing the creativity and expertise of UP CFA’s student-designers and the strategic guidance from ISSI, we have equipped our Rizal MSMEs with the tools to innovate and compete more effectively in the market. We are incredibly proud of the new designs and prototypes that emerged from this partnership.”

The initiative aimed to foster creativity, promote design excellence, and provide practical support to MSMEs in Rizal, enabling them to enhance product quality, appeal, and market competitiveness. This project serves as a model for future collaborations, highlighting the potential for academic institutions to directly contribute to local economic development.

The new designs and prototypes are expected to help the participating MSMEs expand their product offerings, attract new customers, and ultimately contribute to the economic growth of Rizal province. ♦

Date of Release: 10 June 2025