Mandaluyong City, Philippines—Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque honored 30 exceptional national finalists and their academic institutions at the 58th Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) Honoring Ceremony on April 27.

Following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for a “Bagong Pilipinas”—a country characterized by unity, innovation, and service—the ceremony reflected the administration’s thrust to cultivate a new era of leadership.

By honoring the next generation of changemakers, the TOSP program reinforces the vision of a future-ready Philippines, one led by empowered, compassionate, and civic-minded youth equipped to transform communities and sustain inclusive progress.

“In government, we talk a lot about competitiveness, innovation, and resilience. These are big words. But, it all boils down to people,” said Secretary Roque.

“It is people like you, young, driven, committed, who will define and shape the future of our nation. That is why we are building a future where your talent, ideas, and leadership can thrive and succeed,” the trade chief added.

The annual TOSP ceremony recognizes student leaders distinguished by their dedicated service and significant contributions to their respective communities, organizations, and fields of interest. Moreover, it calls upon honorees to lead with integrity, act with compassion, and remain steadfast in their commitment to the nation’s progress.

Reaffirming the DTI’s support for youth leadership, Secretary Roque highlighted the agency’s flagship initiatives designed to nurture emerging talent and entrepreneurial potential. Among these are Kapatid Mentor Me, the Creative Industries Development Act, youth-centered entrepreneurship programs, and the Department’s digital transformation roadmap.

Collectively, these efforts aim to equip the next generation with the resources, platforms, and skills needed to drive innovation, foster inclusive growth, and lead resilient communities.

Secretary Roque also recognized the families, educators, and academic institutions who played a critical role in shaping the awardees’ values and sense of purpose. She emphasized their importance in nurturing aspiring leaders dedicated to service and inclusive growth.

Furthermore, the trade chief paid tribute to the legacy of TOSP founder and former DTI Secretary Jose Concepcion Jr., describing the venue—Joecon Hall—fittingly symbolized visionary leadership rooted in public service. She also shared her connection to the Concepcion family and recalled her years of collaboration with Joey Concepcion III in championing the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises.

“Let us continue to believe in the power of the Filipino youth. Let us continue working hand-in-hand, with a whole-of-nation approach, to ensure a future-ready Bagong Pilipinas, where service is celebrated, integrity is rewarded, and the dreams of the next generation are supported by all,” the DTI chief concluded. ♦

Date of Release: 25 April 2025

Related posts:

DTI hosts learning tour for over 400 University of Northern Philippines students PH healthcare firms shines, bags USD79M in HIMSS Global Health Conference and Exhibition in the Las Vegas DTI brings OTOP to SM City Dasmariñas, expands market for local businesses DTI, TikTok collab to revolutionize Filipino enterprises with digital boost DTI strengthens enterprise support, returns intensive food safety program for regulatory success DTI opens 8th OTOP Philippines store in Cagayan Valley PH rises as Asian growth leader, fueled by empowered entrepreneurs—DTI Secretary Roque DTI ramps up consumer protection with nationwide price monitoring launch in Mabalacat City