Majority of Filipino MSMEs surveyed continue operations, garner sales on Facebook amid pandemic

Despite the challenges the COVID-19 pandemic brought to several businesses, the majority of Filipino micro-, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) surveyed have shown resilience as they continue operations through Facebook.

In a survey conducted by Facebook, the State of Small Business Report found that 64% of Filipino MSMEs on Facebook are able to continue operating and engaging in revenue-generating activities despite the limitations of the pandemic.

Facebook conducted the survey over 30,000 small business owners and employees in over 50 countries including the Philippines.

It was conducted amid the pandemic May 28-31 with over a hundred respondents from the country.

According to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), MSMEs make up 99.5% of businesses in the country, which is why Facebook says it recognizes its vitality in the economy.

Despite a majority able to maintain their operations on Facebook, 35% had to lay off their employees due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the report said.

Meanwhile, 46% of local businesses that are operational on Facebook reported a 50% decline in sales compared to last year.

However, the survey respondents noted that they are expecting a challenge on their sales in the next few months.

Among small businesses that were greatly affected by the effects of pandemic and made efforts to shift operations online, 52% of them on Facebook reported that 25% or more of their sales were garnered digitally in the past month.

Facebook has also continued to support MSMEs through various programs and tools available on the platform such as its Boost with Facebook webinar series.

New episodes of Boost with Facebook premiere every Wednesday, 2 p.m., on the Facebook for Business page until Sept. 9. – Jannielyn Ann Bigtas/RC, GMA News