DTI Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque poses for a group photo with DTI officials and delegates under a welcome banner during their visit to the Bulacan Provincial Government Building on April 2, as part of strengthening ties with the province.

Pampanga and Bulacan, Philippines—On April 02,Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque has strategically leveraged the burgeoning economic potential of Bulacan and Pampanga by strengthening partnerships with their respective Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

This initiative aims to accelerate regional economic prosperity through the DTI’s core strategic priorities, capitalizing on significant infrastructure developments and emerging investment hubs in the regions.

These engagements with regional chambers are integral to the DTI’s “Goes to the Regions” campaign, a key initiative designed to ensure government programs effectively reach local communities. By collaborating closely with private sector networks, the DTI seeks to attract investments and safeguard consumer interests.

“This partnership transcends regional cooperation; it’s about aligning our national priorities with robust local leadership. With Bulacan and Pampanga emerging as dynamic growth corridors, we are poised to unlock new trade opportunities, protect consumers from unfair practices, and empower local businesses to spearhead inclusive development nationwide,” stated Secretary Roque.

The DTI Chief particularly highlighted Pampanga’s ascent as a premier investment destination, fueled by the Clark Freeport Zone’s expansion and the streamlining of trade facilitation reforms. In Bulacan, she emphasized the transformative potential of the planned international airport and the approval of the Bulacan Economic Zone. These landmark projects are expected to attract significant capital and generate substantial employment.

To ensure these investments translate to opportunities, the DTI enhances both consumer protection and micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) competitiveness. Recognizing that robust consumer safeguards are essential in fostering investor confidence and ensuring fair markets, the DTI intensifies market surveillance, enforcement, and public awareness initiatives to address evolving consumer risks in the dynamic marketplace.

Furthermore, the DTI actively supports MSMEs through a five-point program focused on digitalization, diversification, access to finance, franchising, and targeted mentoring. This integration of MSMEs into emerging supply chains and consumer markets is crucial for maximizing the benefits of major investments, ensuring equitable growth and long-term economic resilience in the regions.

“Our reinforced partnerships with the Bulacan and Pampanga Chambers embody the DTI’s vision for an integrated development path. By connecting investment, consumer protection, and enterprise support, we are building an inclusive and sustainable economic future that champions both regional empowerment and national advantage,” the trade chief concluded. ♦

Date of Release: 04 April 2025