Awareness and Perceived Implementation of Barangay Micro-Business Enterprise Act of 2002 (Republic Act 9178) in La Trinidad, Benguet, Philippines

Abstract

Micro-business firms comprise more than 90% of the total micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines. In La Trinidad, Benguet, almost all businesses are considered micro-enterprises. One of the government's ways of assisting the microbusiness entrepreneurs is through the Barangay Micro- Business Enterprise (BMBE) Act of 2002 or R.A. 9178. This study determined the level of awareness and implementation of the BMBE Law in La Trinidad, Benguet, and the correlation between microbusiness owners' profile and their level of awareness of the said law. The study respondents are micro-business owners, barangay leaders, and implementers of the law. Results revealed that food micro-business owners and the barangay leaders were generally both unaware, while the implementing agencies were partially aware of the BMBE law. Micro-business profile variables were weakly correlated with the awareness level. Concerning the implementation level, micro-business owners and barangay leaders generally perceived that the BMBE law is not being implemented in La Trinidad. In contrast, the implementers perceived that the provisions in the said law are partially being implemented. The implementer’s concerns in fully executing the BMBE law are connected to the expected reduction of the municipality's revenue if every micro-business registers as BMBE. Hence, this study recommends a review of the BMBE law considering the types of enterprises in a municipality. Further, enhancements in entrepreneurial degree course curriculums may enhance awareness of the BMBE law.