Small businesses in disaster-prone areas need to make preparedness and continuity part of their operations, from protecting equipment and inventory to securing backup power and ensuring employees have contingency plans.
The message emerged during the third and final day of the 2nd City of Talisay Business Summit and Trade Expo 2026, where entrepreneurs shared lessons from preparing for typhoons and flooding.
Tin Kwan, owner of 88 Garden Cafe, assessed her insurance coverage and the risks facing her establishment, located about 600 meters from a river. She bought sandbags to limit flooding and secured enough diesel to keep her generator running, protecting essential operations and perishable goods during power outages.
Kwan also stocked drinking water and groceries for employees and established contingency arrangements, including alternative communication methods if mobile signals failed and locations where workers could seek shelter. During Typhoon Tino in 2025, the cafe opened its outdoor area to neighbors seeking refuge.
Bobby Adan, owner of Prutasan ni Adan, likewise stressed securing facilities, backup power, and storage. Both entrepreneurs said preparedness should reflect each business’s specific risks.
Business continuity
Marivic Aguilar, director of the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Cebu provincial office, said disaster preparedness helps distinguish businesses positioned for long-term growth from those focused on day-to-day survival.
The DTI, in partnership with the University of San Carlos, has piloted a business continuity planning program involving four micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), including two from Talisay City. Participating businesses are developing continuity plans through workshops and coaching, with the goal of incorporating them into formal company policies.
Aguilar said the program could be replicated through future seminars and training. She also urged business chambers and other stakeholders to coordinate with government agencies in developing programs that address MSME needs.
She identified regulatory compliance, continuous learning, and preparation for unexpected disruptions as foundations for sustainable growth, urging entrepreneurs to secure permits, seek mentorship, and strengthen management skills.
Expansion with a plan
The summit also examined how MSMEs should approach expansion.
Adan, whose business has three branches, said entrepreneurs should assess capital, market fit and whether their teams can execute an expansion plan.
Kwan, who has also expanded 88 Garden Cafe to three branches, said demand and the ability to reinvest guided her decisions. Her first Talisay branch, opened in 2024, responded to demand for a cafe offering food, coffee, and function rooms.
She encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to overcome the fear of starting a business while carefully assessing their resources, market opportunities, and commitment.
The 2nd City of Talisay Business Summit and Trade Expo 2026 was presented by the Talisay City local government unit; Talisay Chamber of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Inc.; Department of Trade and Industry; and Robinsons Galleria Cebu.
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