Participants attend a training session on the Philippine Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Integrated Platform at the SMX Convention Center in Clark, Pampanga. A presenter stands beside a large screen displaying information about the Digital FTA System, while attendees use laptops and take notes. The session is part of a DTI-led initiative to equip exporters with tools to maximize FTA benefits.

The Department of Trade and Industry – Export Management Bureau (EMB), in partnership with the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT) and the Korea Trade Network (KTNET), successfully conducted a Regional Roadshow and Training Session on the Philippine Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Integrated Platform on May 23, 2025 at the SMX Convention Center, Clark, Pampanga.

The one-day training, attended by existing, potential exporters and key stakeholders from Central Luzon, introduced the features and functionalities of the FTA Integrated Platform, a project supported by the Korean government aimed at helping Philippine exporters maximize tariff preferences from FTAs. This training is expected to empower MSMEs by equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to enhance their capacity to expand into international markets and take full advantage of tariff preferences in their export ventures.

The platform is composed of two components: the FTA Information Portal (FIP) and the FTA Origin Management System (OMS). The FIP serves as a one-stop hub that guides exporters on how to avail of FTA benefits, while the OMS will streamline and digitalize the issuance of the Product Evaluation Report (PER), a key requirement in availing preferential tariffs.

In his opening remarks, DTI-3 SME Development Division Chief Warren Patrick Serrano welcomed the participants and expressed support for digital tools that make trade processes more efficient and accessible for MSMEs. “This platform will be instrumental in helping our exporters navigate FTAs and expand into global markets,” he said.

Ms. Rafaelita C. Castro, Chief of the EMB Industrial Division, opened the learning sessions with an insightful overview on how exporters can maximize the benefits of the Philippines’ Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Generalized System of Preferences (GSPs). She also gave a brief discussion on the CREATE Law and its relevance to exporters.

Mr. Lee Jang Pyo from the Korea Trade Network introduced the Philippine FTA Integrated Platform (FIP), a one-stop information hub designed to guide exporters in availing tariff preferences under the country’s trade arrangements with key global markets.

A live demonstration on navigating the FIP was conducted by Ms. Ma. Divine Grace T. Derez of EMB, providing participants a clear walkthrough of the platform’s features.

In the afternoon, Mr. Franclem A. Peña from EMB, discussed the FTA Origin Management System (OMS), focusing on company registration and user management. This was followed by Ms. Christine Grace C. Victoria, who presented data management processes within the OMS. Ms. Derez returned for a hands-on tutorial on Origin Determination and the online application for the Product Evaluation Report (PER) through the OMS.

The session concluded with a Q&A and open forum, allowing participants to raise concerns and provide feedback on the platform.

The training also served as a venue for gathering feedback from users to further improve the platform before full implementation. The Philippine FTA Integrated Platform is part of the government’s broader efforts to promote inclusive and sustainable export growth, in line with its vision of empowering Filipino enterprises through technology, capacity building, and global market integration.

DTI Region 3, in partnership with the Export Marketing Bureau, remains committed to supporting current and aspiring exporters by providing technical assistance, capacity-building programs, and access to tools like the FTA Integrated Platform—ensuring that MSMEs are well-equipped to compete and thrive in the global market. ♦

Date of Release: June 03 2025

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