The Economic Significance of One Town One Product (OTOP) Program in the Province of Ilocos Sur

Abstract

The engagement of the people in the locality on product development does not only help the economy to boom, but it also brings out people’s ingenuity, character, culture, and uniqueness. The producers of OTOP in the province of Ilocos Sur are on their way to becoming known through their products. This study aimed to determine the economic significance of OTOP in the province of Ilocos Sur in terms of employment, quality of life, improved technology, and improved quality of products. It further determined the profile of the manufacturers, the extent of assistance programs provided by agencies, and the relationship between the profile of the manufacturers and the economic impact of OTOP. This is a descriptive study with 160 producers randomly selected from Ilocos Sur's 32 towns. Results indicate that most of the manufacturers are adult females. Most of them have reached high school level, have attended one seminar only, and are affiliated with only one organization. Not all manufacturers are provided with assistance programs. Employment and improved quality products are registered to have the highest economic impact. Age, educational attainment, seminars, and membership in an organization display a bearing on the contribution of the program to their economy.