Hope Joy Montecillo Palermo of Real’s Food Products in Palawan has been named one of the 10 Kapatid Mentor ME Growth Champions for 2026, the Department of Trade and Industry said.
Palermo was selected from 442 nominees across the country following a screening and evaluation process. She was also one of two entrepreneurs from MIMAROPA included in this year’s roster of awardees.
The other MIMAROPA awardee was Reynalyn Rodelas of UNCLE Roy Processed Food Manufacturing in Marinduque.
The entrepreneurs were recognized during the MSME Summit 2026 held on July 18 at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City. The ceremony also marked the 10th anniversary of the DTI’s Kapatid Mentor ME Program.
The program, implemented by the DTI in partnership with the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship-Go Negosyo, helps micro and small entrepreneurs improve and expand their businesses.
Participants undergo a 10-module mentoring program that includes individual coaching, peer learning and guidance in preparing a customized Business Improvement Plan.
Launched in 2016, the program has expanded to all 17 regions and 105 provinces and cities. It has enrolled 17,356 entrepreneurs, of whom 16,863 have graduated as of 2026.
This year’s Growth Champions represent businesses in food manufacturing, hospitality, education, garments, fashion and creative services.
Other awardees were Jasmin Allison Obatay of JAO Plaque Awards Printing Services in Rizal; Marvin Intal of Intal Garments OPC in Pasay City; Michelle Omilgo of B@M’s Resto Bar, Lodging House and Catering Services in Masbate; Amric Mendoza of Atom Learning Center in Bataan; Mae Selene Resultay of Rensel’s Food Products in Negros Occidental; Sevilla Magpantay of Rambelle Food Products in Batangas; Frances Uma Espinosa of Paeng-Uma Food Corporation in Bohol; and Gleizl Joy Soo of House of Musa in Davao del Norte.
According to the DTI, the awardees were recognized for demonstrating how the growth of small businesses can create jobs, support local suppliers and open markets for Filipino products.
The agency said the selection process concluded with internal and final deliberations chaired by DTI Assistant Secretary Leonila Baluyut.
