ARCHIVES
January
SBCorp. allocates P2B in loans for female-run firms
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said the Small Business Corp. (SBCorp.), has allocated P2 billion this year for a loan program targeting women-led enterprises.
“We continue to support women entrepreneurs seeking local and global expansion, while also opening opportunities for those ready to expand, create jobs, and strengthen local economies,” Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque said.
“We understand that capital is a challenge to many, and the DTI through SBCorp. has tailored programs to meet the needs of our MSMEs, like this Women’s Enterprise Fund (WEF),” she added.
February
DTI chief sees approval of RACE budget this year
MANILA – Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque on Tuesday expressed optimism that the proposed Revitalizing the Automotive Industry for Competitiveness Enhancement (RACE) program will be approved and funded this year. In an interview, Roque said discussions on the program —described as a modified version of the Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS)— are ongoing.
“We’re hoping for that, definitely,” she said, referring to the discussions to be finished this year.
“But I can’t really say when. We need to finish the discussions first.”
Read more: DTI chief sees approval of RACE budget this year | Philippine News Agency
March
Strong MSME engagement sets the stage for SM Supermalls’ 2026 programs
Through its SM for MSMEs program, SM Supermalls empowered 920 new MSMEs and start-ups in 2025, with nearly 10% successfully transitioning into regular mall tenants through kiosks, counters, or in-line stores nationwide. Since its enhanced rollout in March 2024, the program has supported 2,288 unique MSMEs, providing real-world platforms where entrepreneurs can test, refine, and scale their businesses.
Read more: Manila Bulletin – Strong MSME engagement sets the stage for SM Supermalls’ 2026 programs
April
DTI, Digital PINAS empower MSMEs in underserved communities through ICT equipment handover
Metro Manila —The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Digital PINAS Joint Programme, supported by the European Union, formally marked the handover of ICT equipment to 14 Negosyo Centers on 12 March 2026. Thousands of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in remote and underserved communities are set to benefit from expanded digital business support, strengthening digital inclusion and helping local businesses participate in the growing digital economy.
MSME Growth In 2026 Likely To Be Quality Driven Not Uniform
If 2025 taught India’s MSMEs anything, it is that growth is no longer linear. Demand did return in pockets, exports surprised on the upside in some sectors, and digital adoption accelerated quietly. Yet margins remained under pressure, credit costs stayed elevated, and policy signals, global and domestic, shifted frequently.
As we look ahead to 2026, the MSME sector enters the year neither pessimistic nor euphoric, but more resilient, more adaptive, and better prepared for change. That, in many ways, is a healthy place to be.
Strong MSME engagement sets the stage for SM Supermalls’ 2026 programs
DTI launches P4 billion MSME fund amid ME conflict
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has rolled out a P4-billion loan facility to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) affected by rising prices amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Speaking at the launch of the MSME Business Fund, Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the facility was established due to the impact of the Middle East crisis on businesses.
ASEAN MOVES TO BOOST ENERGY, FOOD SECURITY AMID MIDEAST CONFLICT
MANILA – The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is moving to strengthen energy and food security as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East threaten regional stability, Trade Secretary and ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Council Chair Cristina Roque said Thursday.
PHILIPPINE MANUFACTURING PMI SHRINKS FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 5 MONTHS
PHILIPPINE FACTORY activity contracted for the first time in five months in April amid a sharp decline in new orders, S&P Global said on Monday.
The S&P Global Philippines Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) slumped to 48.3, a reversal from 51.3 in March, reflecting a “moderate deterioration in operating conditions.”
AURORA ECOZONE MAKES PITCH FOR MANUFACTURING, DEFENSE LOCATORS
THE Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) said it is looking to bring in manufacturing, agro-processing, and defense-related locators to its Cagisuran economic zone, which it is positioning as a port that will help mitigate disruptions posed by geopolitical uncertainties.
Also in focus are “infrastructure and policies to boost commercial fishing, aquaculture, and marine exports,” APECO President and Chief Executive Officer Gil G. Taway IV said in a statement on Thursday.
INFLATION EXPECTED TO JUMP IN APRIL AS PHILIPPINE GROWTH STAYS WEAK
Signs of stagflation are surfacing in the Philippine economy as it enters the second quarter of 2026, with private sector economists warning of a precarious mix of stalled growth and surging consumer prices.
The country’s economic output likely posted only a tepid recovery from the previous quarter’s slump, while inflation is projected to breach the central bank’s target ceiling amid supply disruptions exacerbated by conflict in the Middle East.
PHILIPPINE MANUFACTURING ACTIVITY CONTRACTED IN APRIL AS WAR BITES
MANILA, Philippines The fallout from the Middle East war continued to ripple across the Philippine manufacturing sector, dragging factory activity into contraction territory in April for the first time in five months.
The latest S&P Global survey of around 400 companies showed the Philippines’ Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell to 48.3 from 51.3 in March, dropping below the 50-point threshold that separates growth from contraction.
May
DTI: No price hike on basic goods until May 10 amid Mideast conflict
MANILA – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Friday said there will be no price increase for basic necessities and prime commodities until May 10, 2026.
Covered items include canned sardines, processed milk, bread, coffee, locally manufactured instant noodles, bottled water, laundry soap, candles, salt, canned meat, condiments, and toilet soap, all under suggested retail prices (SRP).
DTI EXEC URGES STRONGER ASEAN INTEGRATION AMID GLOBAL UNCERTAINTIES
MANILA – A Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) official on Wednesday underscored the need for closer regional integration to protect economies amid global uncertainties.
Trade Undersecretary Allan Gepty, during a briefing at the International Media Center in Cebu for the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit, said “national responses alone are not sufficient.”
Oil shocks, uncertainty muddy Philippine inflation forecasts, analysts say
ANALYSTS and economic managers are now finding it harder to precisely measure data in their inflation forecasts as rising uncertainty and the faster-than-usual transmission of oil price shocks challenge their models.
University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) economist Marco Antonio C. Agonia said analysts like himself typically use historical data and assumed relationships, both of which could still be adjusting to rapid developments from the unprecedented energy crisis.
PHL SHARE MAY STAY WEAK ON ECONOMIC WORRIES
PHILIPPINE STOCKS may move lower this week as concerns over the Middle East war and its impact on the domestic economy continue to weigh on investor sentiment.
On Friday, the Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) fell by 1.21% or 73.30 points to close at 5,960.97, while the broader all shares index dropped by 0.67% or 23.04 points to 3,373.37.
Meanwhile, week on week, the benchmark index rose by 127.33 points from April 30’s 5,833.64.
Philippines downplays stagflation risk, will boost spending
The Philippines pledged a rapid ramp-up in government spending starting this month to revive an economy hit by a sharp slowdown in growth and surging consumer prices.
Ahead of a review of economic targets on May 11, Finance Secretary Frederick Go said the government has sufficient funds to back his spending plans and predicted a quick turnaround once the Middle East conflict is resolved.
January
Sinulog Fiesta Fair 2025
Meet 37 exhibitors, including 34 local MSMEs from Cebu, showcasing uniquely crafted and innovative products at the Sinulog Fiesta Fair 2025 in SM City Cebu from January 15-26, 2025! 🎊
Enjoy the festive Sinulog vibes and exclusive finds you can’t miss!
Whether you’re a shopper, tourist, or simply looking for the best local products, the Sinulog Fiesta Fair is your must-visit marketplace this January!
Tag your friends and family and #SupportLocal!
Read more: Meet 37 exhibitors, including 34… – DTI Region 7 Central Visayas | Facebook
July
NATIONAL ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR 2024:
SHOWCASING FILIPINO CRAFTSMANSHIP AND CULTURAL HERITAGE
Over 250 Exhibitors to Feature Traditional and Modern Handicrafts in a Celebration of Filipino Creativity
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (BMDPO) in collaboration with the Office of Senator Loren Legarda proudly announces the upcoming National Arts & Crafts Fair (NACF) 2024, to be held from October 23-27, 2024, at the Megatrade Hall 1-3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.
This year’s event will feature over 250 exhibitors from across the country, offering a diverse range of handcrafted and artisanal products that blend traditional Filipino craftsmanship with modern innovation.
Read more: https://msmehub.dti.gov.ph/press-release-nacf-2024/
MSMEs eye strong 2025 growth after tough year—BCG
June
MSMEs eye strong 2025 growth after tough year—BCG
Item #1
The much-awaited 2024 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair (NTF) is set to happen from August 21 to 25, at the Megatrade Halls 1-3 of SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.
The NTF is a flagship initiative organized by the Department of Trade and Industry through the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (BMDPO). It aims to promote the efficient marketing of local products and provide a platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase their unique and innovative products to a wider audience.
Unwrap the Spirit of Filipino Creativity and Festivity:
Christmas Village Fair and National Fiesta Haraya
2nd Leg at SM Megamall on Nov 30 to Dec 4
Celebrate the warmth and vibrancy of the Filipino holiday season as the Megatrade Halls 2-3 of SM Megamall transform into a festive haven for the second leg of the DTI-Bagong Pilipinas Christmas Village Fair and National Fiesta Haraya, happening from November 30 to December 4, 2024, at Megatrade Halls 2-3. This grand celebration, spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), is set to immerse visitors in the richness of Philippine culture, creativity, and entrepreneurship, making it the ultimate destination for holiday shoppers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Read more: https://msmehub.dti.gov.ph/pr2-for-christmas-village-fair/
Item #2
OTOP Philippines proudly supports Filipino creatives at the PrintCon 2024 in the Philippine Trade Training Center, Pasay City.
This one-of-a-kind event brings together businesses, influencers, and the latest innovations in the local print industry. Explore cutting-edge technologies and ideas presented at Drupa 2024, plus hear from the country’s Creative Communities and MSMEs.
Visit the OTOP pop-up booth today and tomorrow, August 15-16, 2024 and shop for local products from select OTOP MSMEs.
You can also check out some of the exhibitors offering assistance in graphic and label design, digital printing, marketing and branding. 🎨💡
#PrintCon2024 #OTOPPhilippines
#PTTC
Item #3
ICYMI: 10 AUGUST 2024 | The OTOP Bazaar has made its grand debut at Fisher Mall Quezon Avenue! 🎉✨
Starting today and running through August 23, head over to the Event Center to explore an array of exceptional local products. 🌟🛍️ Celebrate and support our hardworking MSMEs by uncovering one-of-a-kind finds.
Don’t let this opportunity pass you by—join us and be part of the celebration!
#OTOPBazaar #OTOPPhilippines #OTOPBazaarAtFisherMall #WhereYouFeelAtHome #iamDTIph
SEE MORE: (3) BDTP – ICYMI: 10 AUGUST 2024 | The OTOP Bazaar has made its grand… | Facebook
🌟 Discover the Best of Local Products at the OTOP (One Town, One Product) Bazaar Program! 🌟
Join us from August 10 to 23, 2024, at the UGF, Event Center Fisher Mall Quezon Avenue for the OTOP Bazaar in partnership with Department of Trade and Industry! 🎉
Dive into a world of unique, handcrafted treasures and innovative local products. Admission is FREE, so bring your friends and family for a fun-filled shopping experience and support local businesses.
See you there! 🛍️✨
#OTOPPhilippines #iamDTIph #ILoveFisherMall #WhereYouFeelAtHome
The ASEAN Online Sale Day is live! 🎉
Visit https://onlineasean.com to snag amazing discounts from stores in the Philippines and across ASEAN.
For more details and promos, check out www.dti.gov.ph/aseansale/
#iamDTIph #AOSD #ASEANOnlineSaleDay
WATCH | 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗣𝗛 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗲𝗳 𝘃𝗼𝘄𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘇𝗲 𝗠𝗦𝗠𝗘𝘀, 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀
Headstart: Karen Davila talks to acting Trade Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque as she takes on the helm following the resignation of former Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual. #iamDTIph
𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 | 𝐃𝐓𝐈, 𝐒𝐌 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐜. 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐌𝐒𝐌𝐄 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬
Pasay City, Philippines — To bolster micro, small, and medium enterprises’ (MSMEs) resilience and market reach, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and SM Prime Holdings Inc. signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on business continuity planning (BCP) and a memorandum of agreement (MOA ) on the One Town One Product (OTOP) promotion, July 1.
See more: DTI, SM Prime Holding Inc. partner to boost MSME resilience and market access
PTV RISE AND SHINE
Filipino MSMEs are becoming more innovative with their products, as highlighted by Mr. Emerson Labang from DTI-BDTP. Featured on PTV4’s Rise and Shine Pilipinas are two standout MSMEs who present their unique local food products: Ms. Olive Sta. Juana of Papapings Baked Boneless Bangus and Ms. Thelma Gecolea of Starkaffea Corp.
#2024DTIBagongPilipinasNationalFoodFair #2024NationalFoodFair
#2024NFF #iamDTIph
27 JUNE 2024 | At Gulong At Gadgets, DTI-BMDPO Director Marievic Bonoan invited food enthusiasts to the upcoming 2024 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair. Also joining the program were MSMEs Juan Carlos Lontoc of 90 PACIFIC CORP, Joanne Tan of YEAR LUCK FOOD & INDUSTRIAL CORPORATION, and Rochelle Pamplina of OMIE’S BUKO PIE. They are among the exhibitors at the 5-day food fair, happening from July 3-7 at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall.
GOOD MORNING KUYA
Discover and enjoy various Filipino food products at the 2024 National Food Fair on July 3-7, 2024, at Megatrade Halls 1-3, 5th Level, Mega B, SM Megamall!
To learn more interesting information about this exciting event as well as how aspiring entrepreneurs can join the fairs organized by the DTI – BDTP, watch our live interview with Mr. Emerson Labang and Ms. Cynthia Eusebio.
WATCH: 2024 National Food Fair at Good Morning Kuya
#2024DTIBagongPilipinasNationalFoodFair #2024NationalFoodFair #2024NFF
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NATIONAL FAIRS 2023
NATIONAL ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR (NACF) 2023 | HIGHLIGHTS
NATIONAL TRADE FAIR (NTF) 2023 | HIGHLIGHTS
With the theme “Go Green, Go Local!” the NTF 2023 featured more than 200 exhibitors from 17 regions, government partners, and major companies.
NATIONAL FOOD FAIR (NFF) 2023 | HIGHLIGHTS
With the theme “Go Discover, Taste, and Enjoy!”, the NFF 2023 featured 289 exhibitors from 17 regions, government partners, and major companies.
The event attracted a total of 28,968 trade show visitors with PHP28.60 million total in sales and booked orders. The five-day event also achieved a remarkable 97.82% client satisfaction rating from the exhibitors.
Angat Negosyo, Asenso Trabaho, Alagang Konsyumer para sa Bagong Pilipinas