PASAY CITY—Acknowledging the significant contributions of MSMEs toward Philippine economic growth and expansion, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Fred Pascual expressed the Department’s commitment to continuously provide support for OTOPreneurs during the opening of the One Town, One Product (OTOP) booth on 6 March 2023 at the Senate of the Philippines. 

“Para sa mga OTOPreneurs na nandito ngayon, I would like to convey that the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) remains committed to support you in your business ventures. We value your immense contribution to our economy, especially post-pandemic. You make up over 99% of all businesses in the Philippines and generate almost 65% of the country’s total employment, which is a testament to your contribution to the Philippine economy”, Secretary Pascual said. 

OTOP is a priority stimulus program of the DTI for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). It aims to drive inclusive local economic development by enabling localities and communities to determine, develop, support, and promote products and services that are deeply rooted from their cultural identity and comparative advantage. 

“We aim to promote your products and enable it to compete both in the local and global markets. Kaisa ninyo kami sa hangaring ito. Tunay na maipagmamalaki ang gawang Pinoy. Halina at ating suportahan ang mga produktong sariling atin!“, added Secretary Pascual. 

The OTOP booth located at the 2nd floor of the Senate of the Philippines is set to enable MSMEs to showcase their products to their target consumers from 6-9 March 2023. This is in support of the sponsorship of Senator Mark Villar as the Chairman of the Committee on Trade, Commerce, and Entrepreneurship on Senate Bill no. 1594 entitled “An Act Institutionalizing the OTOP Philippines Program, Appropriating Funds Therefore, and for Other Purposes”. *

Date of release: 06 March 2023