Private sector vital for PH’s sustainable, inclusive growth — DTI chief at High-Level Conference | Department of Trade and Industry Philippines

In photo from left to right: Mr. Anthony M. Watanabe, Mr. Sudip Ranjan Basu, Tan Sri Michael Yeoh, Ms. Toniyln P. Lim, Secretary Cristina A. Roque, Ms. Ester An, Mr. Rene Almendras, and Ms. Enunina Mangio. — *From L to R: Mr. Anthony M. Watanabe, Mr. Sudip Ranjan Basu, Tan Sri Michael Yeoh, Ms. Toniyln P. Lim, Secretary Cristina A. Roque, Ms. Ester An, Mr. Rene Almendras, and Ms. Enunina Mangio*

Makati City, Philippines—The private sector holds a crucial role in advancing sustainable and inclusive growth, according to Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque.

Speaking at the Special Session on Dialogue with the Private Sector during the High-Level Conference of Middle-Income Countries on April 28, Roque stressed the necessity of collaboration.

“Collaboration is not only essential––but vital. This is why today’s session rightly positions the private sector not at the sidelines, but at the heart of development solutions. Under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., our government is here to provide the support and environment to facilitate your success,” said Secretary Roque.

Themed “Enabling Impactful Partnerships for Sustainable Development,” the session highlighted the importance of stronger partnerships among governments, businesses, and other stakeholders in addressing the challenges faced by middle-income economies.

Secretary Roque emphasized the significant contribution of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to the country’s economic expansion and overall progress. She noted that MSMEs constitute 99.5% of all businesses in the Philippines and provide employment for over 60% of the national workforce.

However, the trade chief also acknowledged persistent systemic challenges that hinder the full development of MSMEs, including limited access to finance, complex regulations, limited participation in value chains, and the slow pace of digital adoption.

Three individuals are posing for a photo in front of a backdrop that reads "High-Level Conference of Middle Income Countries" and "April 28-29, 2025 Manila, Philippines." The person in the center is DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque, given her prominent role in the article about the conference held in the Philippines.

“With this, President Marcos Jr.’s administration, through the DTI, has developed a comprehensive and forward-looking Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Plan 2023-2028, which I am pleased to highlight,” the trade chief added.

This plan aims to uplift the MSME ecosystem by streamlining regulations, reducing red tape, improving inter-agency coordination, and institutionalizing data systems to better respond to enterprise needs.

The DTI is also working to expand access to finance and invest in human capital through initiatives such as the Kapatid Mentor ME program and the nationwide network of Negosyo Centers. These efforts specifically empower women, youth, and underserved communities.

Furthermore, the Department equips businesses with technological advancements, from facilitating e-commerce integration to adopting artificial intelligence tools and connecting with innovation hubs through the MSME Digitalization Agenda. The agency also champions circular economy models, green technologies, and climate-smart business practices.

These initiatives are amplified by broader strategies focused on enhancing public-private dialogue, modernizing infrastructure, expanding market access, and strengthening resilience against economic and environmental vulnerabilities.

The high-level session serves as a foundation for deeper cooperation, facilitating the exchange of best practices, and exploring bold and innovative coordination models. The ultimate goal is cultivating a more resilient and globally competitive MSME sector, particularly within middle-income and transitioning economies. ♦

Date of Release: 29 April 2025

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