Trabaho Party-list (Contributed photo)

Trabaho Party-list is echoing calls for the national government to increase its assistance to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which it calls the "backbone of the Philippine economy".

"Small businesses are vital to the livelihood of millions of Filipinos, especially in the working class," Trabaho Party-list Spokesperson lawyer Mitchell-David Espiritu said in a statement Saturday, April 12.

MSMEs are believed to comprise around 90 percent of all businesses in the Philippines. They are viewed as essential to job generation and economic recovery.

Incidentally, "Trabaho" is the Filipino word for job

"Supporting MSMEs through better access to credit, skills training, and reduced bureaucratic barriers is a necessary step toward dignified employment and long-term economic resilience," Espiritu said. 

Trabaho Party-list is aiming for seats in the legislature, particularly in the House of Representatives, in the upcoming May 12 mid-term elections.

Branding itself as the political voice for the working class, the group has long pushed for policy reforms aimed at job creation, upskilling, and improved labor conditions. 

Among its objectives is increasing funding for government agencies that promote job generation, such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

In light of ongoing economic challenges, the party-list urged lawmakers and government agencies to act decisively. 

"Now is the time to be proactive. By helping small businesses thrive, we not only safeguard livelihoods but also fuel inclusive growth," Espiritu added.