CEBU — Two Cebuano micro, small, and medium enterprises have transformed humble beginnings into remarkable international success stories. Through sheer resilience and crucial government support, Rambie's Collection and Adorno 72 Home Décors are now showcasing the finest Filipino craftsmanship in lucrative global markets, proving that local creativity can thrive worldwide.
From Beads to the Global Stage
Rambie Go started her business with minimal capital and a simple box of beads after returning to the Philippines from abroad in 2019. Coping with a deeply difficult transition period, she turned to intricate beadwork. Her journey took a pivotal turn when she secured P15,000 in livelihood assistance from the OWWA Balik Pinay! Balik Hanapbuhay! program.
Today, Rambie’s Collection produces an impressive 200 to 300 pairs of statement earrings monthly using upcycled fabrics and eco-friendly materials. Her unique pieces have reached Milan, Rome, Singapore, Hong Kong, and the UAE. In May 2026, her earrings proudly represented Cebu at the 48th ASEAN Summit.
Crafting a Home Decor Empire
In Barangay Tayud, Liloan, Maribeth Santillan runs Adorno 72 Home Décors, designing custom wall art, sculptures, and lamps. She started the business part-time without a grand plan. However, she found her footing through Department of Trade and Industry programs that successfully connected her with eager buyers and valuable exhibits.
Her outstanding products have been exported directly to Europe and sold in Japan through DTI-assisted exhibits. While currently focusing on the growing local market, Santillan remains highly eager to expand further into the ASEAN region, specifically eyeing Vietnam, a market she previously traded in.
Government Support Fuels Export Growth
Both passionate entrepreneurs credit strategic government initiatives for their invaluable global exposure. Go’s brand gained significant international traction through active collaborations with the Toledo City government and the Department of Migrant Workers. This support eventually led to her products being featured on Channel NewsAsia.
Their impressive growth aligns perfectly with national strategies, including the Philippine Export Development Plan and the MSME Development Plan 2023-2028. These vital initiatives direct government agencies to actively support the growth of small enterprises, transforming them into highly competitive exporters on the world stage.
Navigating International Trade
Expanding operations abroad requires carefully navigating complex international trade agreements. DTI specialist Ma. Evangeline V. Limbaga notes that local producers must strictly meet rules of origin, prepare accurate customs documents, and secure necessary certifications. This allows them to enjoy reduced tariffs in ASEAN markets.
The DTI assists MSMEs through comprehensive export readiness training, dynamic trade fairs, and critical business matching. Limbaga urges aspiring exporters to register their profiles with the DTI to unlock technical assistance. For these creative Cebuano entrepreneurs, the global marketplace is now completely open for business.
