Makati City, Philippines—Secretary Fred Pascual led the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) 43rd anniversary celebration themed “43 Best Years of BLISS: Boundless Legacy of Integrity, Service, and Synergy.”
The trade chief highlighted the DTI’s unwavering commitment to ethical practices, exceptional service, and collaborative partnerships as the driving forces behind its achievements.
“Ang ating dedikasyon sa etikal na gawain, pati na sa transparency at accountability, ang dahilan kung bakit tayo pinagkakatiwalaan at nirerespeto ng ating mga kliyente, stakeholders, at ng sambayanang Pilipino (Our dedication to ethical work, as well as transparency and accountability, is the reason why we are trusted and respected by our clients, stakeholders, and the Filipino people),” said Secretary Pascual.
Throughout its 43-year history, the DTI has been instrumental in shaping the Philippine economic landscape. The Department has championed fair trade, supported micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), fostered innovation, and facilitated economic growth through its various programs and initiatives.
Among these were the ratification of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the signing of the Philippines-South Korea Free Trade Agreement (FTA), the resumption of negotiations for the Philippines-European FTA, and other ongoing efforts to attract foreign investments and create employment opportunities for Filipinos.
Moreover, the Department championed legislation aimed at strengthening local businesses and promoting e-commerce, notably through the passage of the One Town, One Product Law; the Internet Transactions Act; and the Tatak Pinoy Act.
The DTI’s 43rd anniversary served as a platform to celebrate past accomplishments and reaffirm the Department’s commitment to public service, innovation, and collaboration. Secretary Pascual also underscored the Department’s dedication to exceeding expectations in serving the community and advancing the country’s goals.
“We have also consistently strived for excellence in service sa pagtugon sa pangangailangan ng ating komunidad at pagsulong sa mga programa ng ating pamahalaan (to meet the needs of our community and advance the goals of our nation),” said Pascual.
“Ang ating sinasabing ‘Serbisyong Higit Pa sa Inaasahan’ ay hindi lamang isang motto; ito ay paraan ng paglilingkod ng bawat isa sa atin (Our saying ‘Service Beyond Expectations’ is not just a motto; it’s the way each of us serves),” he added.
The anniversary celebration underscored the Department’s commitment to advance efforts, aligned with the national agenda. With its core goals of “ANGAT Negosyo, ASENSO Trabaho, at ALAGAng Konsyumer Para sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the Department remains steadfast in its mission to foster a more prosperous, inclusive, and resilient Philippines. ♦
Date of release: 22 July 2024