In a strategic move to bolster the digital capabilities of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines, TikTok Shop, in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), recently hosted Camp Asenso. This transformative two-day workshop was designed to provide MSMEs with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the modern e-commerce landscape, focusing on the use of TikTok as a powerful business platform.
The event featured a series of master classes that covered essential topics such as content guidelines, affiliate marketing, and live selling techniques. These sessions aimed to equip MSMEs with practical insights and skills to effectively utilize TikTok Shop for business growth. Attendees were given an in-depth understanding of how to create engaging content, leverage affiliate networks, and conduct live selling sessions to reach a broader audience.
“The new partnership between the Department of Trade and Industry and TikTok Shop marks a significant milestone, promising to open up better opportunities for our MSMEs. Through our collaboration, we will dive into the dynamic world of TikTok and explore how powerful platforms can elevate our businesses. Digitalization is very important for our country, and the insights and skills you gain here will not only enhance your businesses but also pave the way for sustained growth and success. Together, we can leverage the strengths of TikTok Shop and the support of the Department of Trade and Industry to propel our businesses to newer heights,” according to DTI Undersecretary Cristina Roque emphasizing the significance of this partnership.
The workshop attracted nearly 400 TikTok Shop sellers, who were eager to learn from the experiences of successful brands such as Casi’s Mushroom Chicharon and Tiny Buds. These brands provided case studies demonstrating how they harnessed TikTok Shop to scale their businesses and engage with a wider audience.
Josemartin Casillano of Casi’s Mushroom Chicharon shared the importance of storytelling in customer engagement. He explained how his business utilized TikTok’s platform to narrate its unique story, from humble beginnings to a successful nationwide brand. By focusing on authentic content that showcased their journey and mission, Casi’s Mushroom Chicharon was able to connect deeply with its audience, enhancing visibility and fostering a loyal customer base.
“Our journey with TikTok Shop has allowed us to narrate our story—from our humble beginnings to our current success. By highlighting our collaboration with local farmers and leveraging TikTok Shop’s unique features, we’ve transformed into a nationwide brand, reaching thousands of customers,” Casillano explained.
Similarly, Lorin Tan of Tiny Buds shared insights on navigating the digital landscape, emphasizing the need for adaptability and innovation. She highlighted the importance of staying ahead of trends and continuously engaging with the audience to maintain a strong customer connection and sustain growth.
“TikTok Shop has allowed us to build meaningful connections with our customers and continuously adapt to new trends. It’s essential to step out of our comfort zones, invest in time, space, and people, and keep learning to thrive in this dynamic environment,” Tan advised.
Niks Fojas, Category Lead for F&B at TikTok Shop, reiterated the platform’s commitment to supporting MSMEs. “At TikTok Shop, we believe in the power of e-commerce and livestreaming to transform businesses of all sizes, especially SMEs. Our mission is to provide entrepreneurs with the tools and platforms needed to expand reach and grow in this digital age. We are committed to supporting Filipino MSMEs every step of the way by ensuring access to resources and opportunities to thrive. We will continue to roll out initiatives designed to help our MSMEs succeed, through initiatives such as educational programs, enhanced seller support, and campaigns.”
One such initiative is the “Buy Local, Shop Local” campaign, which aims to promote local businesses and enhance the e-commerce landscape in the Philippines. This partnership with the DTI further solidifies TikTok Shop’s dedication to advancing the digital growth and success of MSMEs nationwide.