Clark Freeport Zone – The Department of Trade and Industry Regional Operations Group (ROG) held its 2022 General Assembly at Quest Hotel, Clark Freeport Zone last 1 – 3 June 2022. The ROG is a functional group of the DTI responsible for the field operations of the department in the regions and provinces. It initiates programs to ensure efficient delivery of business development services, including the formulation and implementation of policies, plans, and projects that can benefit micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The annual General Assembly was conducted face to face after two years of conducting it online. Led by DTI Usec Blesila A. Lantayona, Asec Asteria C. Cabarte, Asec Demphna Du-Naga, and Asec Domingo R. Tolentino Jr., the event was attended by the head office bureau directors and DTI regional directors, assistant regional directors, provincial directors from all over the country. With the theme – Resilience, Innovation, Sustainability, Excellence in ROG, the three-day event included various technical, performance review and target-setting sessions. The accomplishments of the ROG head office and that of the regional and provincial offices were also highlighted during the program.

The host region, DTI Central Luzon, headed by Regional Director Leonila T. Baluyut also treated some of the delegates to a tour of the different attractions in Clark Freeport Zone including the newly-opened Clark International Airport. Likewise, a mini trade fair was organized which showcased food and non-food products of DTI Region 3 entrepreneurs. The mini trade fair generated total sales of P246,540 from among its 13 exhibitor-MSMEs during its 2-day run.

The event was capped by a fellowship program on the third and final day. The culminating program dubbed as “A Rollicking Good Time with Super Sec. Mon”, also served as a send-off party to outgoing DTI Secretary, Ramon M. Lopez. The guests were clad in their Gatsby-inspired outfits. Secretary Lopez spent a great time dancing and singing the night away with his associates for the past six years. Describing his stint with the department, Super Sec. Mon turned emotional saying, “The best years in my career are my six years in DTI.” He also thanked his associates for making his stay with DTI wonderful, productive, and meaningful. When asked about what he plans to do after his term, he answered, “After DTI, hindi na ako babalik sa corporation as in operation, ang gusto ko na lang i-pursue is iyong advocacy natin sa mga SMEs.” His term ends this coming June 30, 2022, coterminous with the appointing authority President Rodrigo R. Duterte. ♦

DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez (6th from left) with the DTI Region 3 Executive Committee (ExCom) during the culminating program of the ROG – General Assembly at Quest Hotel, Clark Freeport Zone on June 3, 2022. (L-R) DTI-Tarlac OIC PD Zaida Garibay, DTI-Pampanga PD Elenita R. Ordonio, DTI-Aurora PD Aldrin M. Veneracion, DTI Nueva Ecija PD Richard V. Simangan, RD Leonila T. Baluyut, Sec. Ramon M. Lopez, ARD Brigida T. Pili, DTI Bulacan PD Edna D. Dizon, DTI Bataan PD Nelin O. Cabahug, and DTI Zambales PD Enrique D. Tacbad.

Date of Release: 10 June 2022