Let’s take a look at the point of the first speaker of the opposition, he or she told that … (rebuttal)

The second speaker told that… which I disagree … (rebuttal)

I believe that DTI should regulate the e-business even during the pandemic because this is only for
REGULATORY AND SAFETY purposes, and this does not mean that the DTI will automatically tax the different
e-businesses. This is done for the protection of not only the consumers or buyers but also for the sellers.  This
will ensure consumer protection and will build trust and confidence in the use of these online platforms.
I believe that e-businesses are saviors of the economy in this time of the pandemic. They are effective units for
translating the programs under our economic stimulus and recovery plans into tangible growth and dynamism
in the real economy.
According to Valenzuela Rep. Wes Gatchalian, chairman of the House trade and industry committee, said the
regulatory action should not be taken as a BARRIER to a business, but an opportunity for growth in terms of
access to government programs and incentives and be part of the formal economy. By legitimizing one’s
business through registration under the Department of Trade and Industry, it becomes eligible to avail of
loans, and subsidies. And if they are made eligible for the benefits of the government’s credit stimulus programs,
they can be more impactful in increasing the liquidity of the economy.

There are major programs and projects of DTI that can help all business owners.

1. Shared Service Facility

- This project aims to push businesses to become more competitive through machinery, equipment,
tools, systems, skills and knowledge support under a shared system online. SSF is a national project
implemented through partners known as “Cooperators”, or any juridical entity.

2. SME Roving Academy

This is initiated for the development of businesses. It is a continuous learning program to help them
become competitive in the domestic and international markets. Its main strategies include:

• Integration of the business development at the national and local levels

• Establishment of the Provincial, Regional, and National Entrepreneurship Development Networks
• Management of an inclusive promotion program

3. Mentor Me
- DTI’s “Mentor ME” program aims to help businesses scale up their businesses through weekly
coaching and mentoring by business owners and practitioners on different functional areas of
entrepreneurship. This program is under DTI’s Negosyo Centers’ (NCs) projects nationwide.

Now if a business will not be regulated by the DTI, how can they avail these kinds of benefits. How can they
improve if they will not be helped by the different programs and projects associated to the DTI.