2024 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair Concludes with Record-Breaking Success, Championing Sustainability and Local Innovation

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The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) successfully wrapped up its 2024 Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair (NTF), leaving a lasting impression of the nation's dedication to sustainability, innovation, and the promotion of high-quality Filipino products. Held at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City from August 21 to 25, the event, themed "Go Green! Go Local!" drew in thousands of visitors and generated impressive sales for participating micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Organized by the DTI through the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions and OTOP (BMDPO), this year’s NTF brought together over 270 exhibitors from across the regions, showcasing a diverse range of artisanal and non-food products crafted from sustainable raw materials such as bamboo, natural fibers, and native grass. In addition, the fair featured unique food items, Halal products, coconut-based innovations, novelty items, holiday decor, and home furnishings, providing a comprehensive showcase of Filipino craftsmanship and ingenuity.

A major draw of the event were the special pavilions that featured curated selections of sustainable and innovative products. These included:

· The Philippine Sustainability Pavilion, highlighting eco-friendly products made from bamboo and natural fibers.

· The Coconut Philippines Pavilion, showcasing innovative coconut-based products.

· The Obra Pavilion, displaying creative outputs from design scholars.

· The KAPEtirya Coffee Pavilion, celebrating the rich coffee culture of the Philippines.

· The RAPID Growth Project Pavilion, promoting products from farmer-beneficiaries of the DTI’s Rural Agro-Industrial Project for Inclusive Development and Growth (RAPID Growth) project.

Additionally, the Innovation and Services Cluster provided an information hub for both the MSMEs and visitors, offering free consultations by government agencies and private sector partners.

Key Accomplishments

• Record-Breaking Sales and Attendance: The 2024 NTF was not just a showcase of Filipino creativity but also a resounding success in terms of sales and attendance. Attracting almost 28,000 visitors, the fair generated an impressive Php72.377-million in cash sales, booked orders, and orders under negotiation for participating MSMEs, demonstrating strong consumer interest in locally-made, sustainable products.

• Business Matching and Networking: The event facilitated numerous business matching and networking opportunities, further broadening the market reach and collaboration potential for local entrepreneurs. This fostered an environment conducive to growth and expansion for MSMEs.

• Promotion of Sustainability and Innovation: The fair successfully highlighted the Philippines' commitment to sustainability and innovation, showcasing products made from eco-friendly materials and featuring cutting-edge technologies. This emphasis on sustainable practices underscores the country's dedication to responsible and ethical business practices.

• Empowerment of MSMEs: By providing a platform for MSMEs to showcase their products and connect with potential buyers and partners, the NTF played a crucial role in empowering local entrepreneurs. The event offered valuable opportunities for business growth and development, contributing to the overall economic progress of the country.

DTI Acting Secretary Cristina A. Roque expressed her gratitude to all participants, exhibitors, and partners, underscoring the fair’s significant contribution to the growth and development of MSMEs in the Philippines. “Let this fair be a reminder that together, we can do great things. Together, we can create a future where sustainability and prosperity go hand in hand, and where Filipino products are celebrated not just here, but around the world,” she stated.

Further, Roque reiterated the Bagong Pilipinas development agenda for MSMEs: “The government, the private sector, and the entire nation stand with you. We are committed to providing you with the support, resources, and opportunities you need to thrive.”

As the 2024 NTF closed, the theme “Go Green! Go Local!” resonated strongly, leaving attendees inspired by the rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit that characterize Filipino craftsmanship. The DTI looks forward to building on this success in future events, continuing its unwavering support for the growth and prosperity of Filipino businesses.

For further information about national domestic trade fairs and other DTI initiatives, please follow the social media pages @BDTP on Facebook, @DTI_BDTP on X, and @dti.bdtp on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

Aspiring entrepreneurs interested in participating in future DTI-BMDPO fairs can contact their local DTI office or email Director Marievic Bonoan of the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP at BDTP@dti.gov.ph.

DTI holds Bagsakan sa Intramuros for foreign and local tourists

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As travel and tourism go perfectly with this year’s summer season, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is bringing unique products from across the country closer to tourists through the special Bagsakan sa Intramuros on March 25 to April 2 at the Fort Santiago, Intramuros, Manila City. In time with the grand launch of the DTI’s latest Go Lokal! Store x Manila Canvas at the walled city of Intramuros, Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction in 2022, the Bagsakan will feature 30 enterprises and their local products from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

Organized by the DTI Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (BDTP) in coordination with the DTI-Regional Operations Group and in partnership with the Intramuros Administration and Manila Canvas, the week-long event will feature the unique Filipino products from CAR, Region 2, 3, 4A, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, BARMM, and the NCR for foreign and local tourists to enjoy.

Available for sale are regional delicacies; premium Philippine wines and healthy beverages; Filipino snacks, cookies and pastries; traditional and modern apparel using indigenous textiles; fashion accessories; handicrafts and wooden items; home decors, gifts, and souvenir items; and a full range of personal care and wellness products.

In celebration of the grand opening of the DTI Go Lokal! Store x Manila Canvas on March 27, tourists, buyers and students are invited to join exciting activities free of charge:

· March 30 - Struggles and Success: Let’s Talk Business! with speakers, Aloy Chua, CEO & Founder of Roots Collective; Wado Tan Siman, owner of Wadoughs Cake Studio; and Khaz Raza, Climate Change DRR Expert

· March 31 - Store Tour of Manila Canvas for invited Tour Operators and Tour Guides

· April 1 – Workshop: Pottery Making by Ili Likhaan

· April 2 - Heritage: Forum and Guided Tour with Tranvia by Benjamin Canapi

The Go Lokal! Store is a one-stop-shop for the best locally made products that truly capture the essence of the Philippines. The Go Lokal! Store and the Bagsakan events are great opportunities to support Filipino businesses and artisans while immersing yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the Philippines. Tourists and resellers can directly buy from the manufacturers and place bulk orders for scheduled delivery.

The Bagsakan exhibitors are: Kenro Boutique, Four H Handicraft, Alion Kapit Bisig SEA-K Association, Amanda's Marine Products, Beakris House of Goodies, Gloria's Delicacies, Magpoc's Araro Cookies, Ruthy's Food Products, Terio's Food Products, Tess Enterprise, Willy's Cashew Nuts, Diana Stalder, Harito Food Products, JMU Belt Collection, Let Eat Go, Philia, Switsis Food Products, Sweetstyle Beadworks, Luckygemsbiz and General Merchandise, Cerra Furniture, La Herminia Pina Woven Products, JER Shellcraft. Ma. Delza’s Native Products, Angie's Yakan, Kyla Amazing Soybeans, Marc Daniel's Food Products, Moonlight Handicrafts, Philippine Craft Distillers Inc., Sanja's Enterprises, YZHNY Food Products, and Tingting Handicrafts.

For more updates on upcoming Bagsakan activities, national fairs, and programs for MSMEs, join the DTI-BDTP Community on Viber and follow us on our official social media accounts at: Facebook (@DTI.BDTP); Instagram (@dti.bdtp); Twitter (@dti_bdtp); Tiktok (@dti.bdtp); and YouTube. For inquiries, you may also email BDTP Director Marievic M. Bonoan at bdtp@dti.gov.ph.

Uratex Monoblock launches Bawal Ang Marupok campaign

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Plastic chairs, tables and drawers are often used in Filipino households, workplaces, and various establishments. Regardless of size, layout, and design preference, these must-have essentials have proven their importance to furnish and transform a space into a functional, conducive place that can be easily redesigned whenever needed.

Due to the high demand, various brands produce plastic home furnishing items, specifically monobloc chairs, to make them more accessible and available to consumers. However, not all are made the same.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS) has implemented guidelines and standards to ensure quality and safety – requiring all manufacturers, distributors, and importers of monobloc chairs and stools to apply for the mandatory Philippine Standard (PS) mark – a proof that the product passed the standards set by the DTI-BPS.

In line with its mission to provide the best quality products and address the desire of the consumers for durable and value for money items, Uratex Monoblock is one of the plastic furniture brands that adhered and passed the mandatory tests and requirements set by the DTI-BPS for monobloc chairs and stool; the first brand in the Philippines to passed the Level 5 of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) – ISO 7173, the highest plastic furniture standard in the country.

Why Bawal Ang Marupok?

Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, the brand launched the Bawal ang Marupok campaign with the goal to educate and equip the market on how to be keen and discerning when it comes to investing in plastic chairs and avoid marupok or brittle ones that can potentially harm them. One of the ways that the brand emphasized is to check the warning label to see if the chair has PS certification and recommended seat load capacity for safety and assurance.

Moreover, the campaign aims to highlight the brand’s ongoing thrust and purpose to nurture and protect its consumers by providing top-notch quality products that are not just ergonomic in design, but are also durable and will stand the test of time.

In the recently held campaign media launch at Eton Centris, on January 17, 2023, Uratex Monoblock conducted a forum led by Uratex Monoblock Business Unit Director Dindo Medina, Department of Trade & Industry-Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS) Assistant Director Ferdinand L. Manfoste and Department of Science & Technology - Forest Products Research & Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) Deputy Director Rico Cabangon as part of the panel. 

During the panel discussion, Mr. Medina explained the objective, rationale, and inspiration behind the Bawal Ang Marupok campaign while Mr. Ferdinand Manfoste and Mr. Rico Cabangon explained why Uratex Monoblock chairs easily pass, if not exceed industry standards. Both industry experts shared their insights on the safety and durability of Uratex Monoblock chairs.

“Uratex Monoblock’s passion has always been to provide our consumers with quality items,” Mr. Medina shared. “With the Bawal ang Marupok campaign, we aim to further communicate Uratex Monoblock’s standard for excellent craftsmanship, as well as to educate consumers to be more discerning of the quality and durability of plastic chairs as they value the safety of their family.”

Apart from industry experts, Mommy celebrities, Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio and Camille Prats Yambao graced the event to share their thoughts and actual experiences – highlighting their role as a mom to be alert and well-informed with regards to buying quality household items for the home.

“For me, my family’s safety always comes first,” Rica shared. “Whenever I purchase items for our home, I always consider how the item can serve our family. Is it safe? Is it durable? Can it last for a long time?”

“Monobloc chairs have been a Filipino household staple, but I agree that not all are made the same,” Camille said. “I really agree with Uratex Monoblock’s campaign, bawal talaga ang marupok. It’s really an invitation for every Filipino home to give importance to products that are safe and durable,” she added.

Media invitees were also given a short walk-through of how Uratex Monoblock chairs are being tested before they go out to the market. They also got to participate in various strength tests that ensure the durability of Uratex Monoblock chairs.

Uratex Monoblock chairs come in various designs and styles and are both BPS and ISO Level 5 certified. They are guaranteed safe and durable, can withstand time, and can hold up to 200 kilos. With its recent campaign launch, Uratex Monoblock is a living proof that quality and durability matters – Bawal ang Marupok!

To learn more about Uratex Monoblock and its products, visit uratex.com.ph/collections/monoblocks. You may also follow/uratexmonoblockchairs on Facebook, and @uratexmonoblock on Instagram for updates and upcoming promos.

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About Uratex Monoblock

Established in 1993, Uratex Monoblock is a brand of high quality, stylish and durable – made from strong solid plastic – plastic furniture that is widely used in homes, offices, restaurants, and other establishments and institutions. For three decades, Uratex Monoblock has assured its customers of the durability and quality of its products through accreditations and recognitions by both the national government and other local and international organizations.

Samsung Electro-Mechanics Bags the Golden Achievement Award in the Philippines

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Samsung Electro-Mechanics Philippines (SEMPHIL) bagged the Golden Achievement Award on November 27, 2022. The Golden Achievement Award, bestowed by the Philippine government, is regarded as the most prestigious award given to companies registered with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and presented by Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

(L-R) PEZA OIC-Deputy Director General for Operations Ms. Vivian Santos, DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual, President and Head of Samsung Electro-Mechanics Philippines (SEMPHIL) Mr. Seoncheol Park, PEZA OIC-Director General Mr. Tereso Panga, and PEZA OIC-Deputy Director General for Finance and Administration Mr. Aleem Siddiqui Guiapal

Every year, the Philippine government selects and awards outstanding companies in four categories: export, employment, social contribution, and environment. The Golden Achievement Award honors the most outstanding company among the list of companies that have been elevated to the Hall of Fame in all categories.

Samsung Electro-Mechanics was also inducted into the Hall of Fame by receiving the recognition three times in each category leading to their win of the Golden Achievement Award this year. To date, Samsung Electro-Mechanics has received the Outstanding in Community Projects award in 2007, 2008, and 2009; Outstanding Employer in 2006, 2010, and 2012; Outstanding Exporter in 2011, 2012 and 2013; and Outstanding Environmental Performer in 2007, 2019, 2020. Since the inception of the Golden Achievement Award in 2012, only five companies, including Samsung Electro-Mechanics, have received this prestigious recognition.

Vice President and Head of SEMPHIL Park Seoncheol said, "It is an honor to be recognized as the most outstanding company in all categories: export, employment, and social contribution environment. We will continue to actively conduct social welfare programs for employees and local communities, preserve a healthy environment, and pursue sustainable development."

SEMPHIL has received high scores for obtaining certification for an environmental management system (ISO14001) from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and systematically improving the environment, such as energy conservation, reduction in consumption of chemicals, and compliance with standards to prevent water and air pollution.

Samsung Electro-Mechanics Philippines (SEMPHIL) situated in Calamba Premiere International Park in Calamba City of Laguna, started its operation from year 2000

In addition, SEMPHIL was also honored for leading the way in advancing social ideals and sustaining corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts through various activities like tree planting and coastline cleanup. SEMPHIL has also taken the initiative to find fresh talents among the low-income households and has provided them learning advice and scholarships in order to help them develop their skills. These promising individuals were given the chance to work for the company.

Since its founding in 1997, SEMPHIL has been manufacturing the MLCC (Multi-Layer Ceramic Capacitor), the flagship product, as well as other passive components such as inductors and chip resistors. Its revenue increased by $1,153 million in 2021. In order to meet the demand for IT and automotive components, Samsung Electro-Mechanics is getting ready to use its Philippine Plant (SEMPHIL) as one of its primary production facilities in the future.

In August 2022, Samsung Electro-Mechanics CEO Chang Duckhyun met with Secretary Alfredo Pascual of the Department of Trade and Industry to share about SEMPHIL's main activities, innovative technology cases, and contribution to economic growth in the Philippines. Through this meeting, Chang has also requested DTI’s support for Korea's bid to host the 2030 Busan World Expo where Samsung acts as a member of the public-private 2030 Busan World Expo bidding committee.

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About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, digital appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI and LED solutions. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com.

Ninja Van Philippines kicks off DIGeCONOMY Bootcamp Series

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Tech-enabled express logistics company, Ninja Van Philippines, continues to push its customer-first agenda to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) in the country. With the launch of the DIGeCONOMY Bootcamp Series, business owners can learn valuable insights and first-hand knowledge from industry experts to help them overcome the challenges of transitioning towards digitalization and maximize opportunities in the digital space.

During the first learning session, speakers from the public and private sectors shared insights on how MSMEs can better build their brand online.

“The Philippines is the fastest-growing market in the region and this has been driven by strict lockdowns caused by the pandemic, which led to businesses having to adapt and shift their transactions online. Here at Ninja Van Philippines, it is our mission to supercharge MSME growth in the digital space. We believe that Filipino businesses can further reach their potential with the help of these advancements and technology,” said Sabina Lopez-Vergara, Chief Commercial Officer of Ninja Van Philippines.

Sabina Lopez-Vergara, Chief Commercial Officer of Ninja Van Philippines.

Through multiple legs, the DIGeCONOMY Bootcamp Series will follow the digital transformation journey of SMEs and MSMEs—from building and growing their brand online to maintaining brand affinity among customers. Last March 22, the first leg of the series already began with a learning session that centered on developing a customer-centric brand for MSMEs and its importance as well as the available tools and solutions they can utilize to stay competitive in the digital market. It featured Ms. Nelly Nita Dillera, CESO III, Executive Director of the Department of Trade and Industry - Philippine Trade Training Center (DTI-PTTC); Ms. Kim Sabala, Founder and Managing Owner of Cold Gold; and Mr. Edward Cruz, CEO of ATOZ as the speakers.

Government support

Venturing into e-commerce is more than just presenting and selling products online. DTI-PTTC Executive Director Nelly Dillera ran through the end-to-end e-commerce management services that MSMEs have to know. From marketing management to data analytics and customer service, all of which are important for their businesses to be successful.

“The PTTC-GMEA (Global MSME Academy) has programs that can assist you on the different processes that I’ve mentioned. Our coverage includes business development, accounting and finance, and other business functions that support MSMEs,” Dillera said. “You can also visit PTTC’s website for self help training programs and further assistance on how you can progress more in your business.”

DTI has also compiled a list of TechTools that MSMEs can use to boost their businesses including e-commerce platforms/resources, e-payment channels, digital marketing solutions, and logistics providers like Ninja Van Philippines.

Branding essentials

Once you have all the tools and training to effectively run your business online, the next thing you have to do is focus on your branding. Founder and Owner of Cold Gold, Kim Sabala, shared how she grew her businesses to what they are today by maintaining consistent branding across all channels using three essentials: brand guide, social media strategy, and content calendar.

A brand guide helps you define the essence of what makes you stand out from your competitors. It involves identifying your target audience, mission and vision statements, unique selling proposition, core values and brand stylistics. On the other hand, having a social media strategy is important in knowing what works for your business goals and what doesn’t through social listening and setting key performance indicators (KPIs).

“From there, we can test, refine and evolve our practices to better work for our goals. Not having a strategy is like shooting in the dark. When you aim for nothing, you hit nothing,” she said.

Finally, your content calendar must include the type of content you want to deliver to your consumers, your preferred platform/s, a timeline, and some key events to make your content more relevant. Once you’ve done all these, you can begin implementing your plan and growing your brand.

Customer journey

According to the CEO of ATOZ and long-time Ninja Van shipper Edward Cruz, one of the most neglected processes when it comes to e-commerce is mapping the customer journey. “For us in ATOZ, we make sure that every data that is coming in the platform has an engagement whether it’s pre-purchase or after purchase.”

Customer journey begins with awareness of the product, which is a customer’s first engagement with your brand. From there, you can deepen the customer’s understanding of who you are and what you offer through influencer marketing and more advertisements that will drive consideration and finally, turn customers to buyers.

After purchase comes retention. “After the customer purchases from you, you have to re-engage them because at the end of the day, the first purchase they make on your platform will not really result in big profits. But if you have good retention, it’s very easy to re-engage those customers through email, SMS and social media content,” said Cruz.

The customer journey ends with loyalty where businesses get to deepen their relationship with their customers and really drive home the message, they want to instill to their customer base. Mapping out the customer journey can help MSMEs deliver better customer service and maximize every customer interaction, which can be advantageous for their brand.

Watch out for the next DIGeCONOMY Bootcamp Series learning session for this leg happening in May! Visit facebook.com/ninjavanph for updates and more information.

Shopee Launches First #TatakPinoy Virtual Trade Fair of the Year

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While MSMEs still comprise the majority of registered businesses in the country, a survey conducted by the Department of Trade & Industry (DTI) - Ecommerce Office in September 2020 showed that 73% of MSMES still require assistance in digitizing their operations. 

Shopee remains committed to help MSMEs transition to digital easily and seamlessly as it once again partners with the DTI to launch the #TatakPinoy Virtual Trade Fair from March 18-24. This initiative is in line with Shopee’s goal to provide local MSMEs with the support that they need to grow their businesses online.

Through the week-long virtual trade fair, Shopee users will be able to discover and purchase Filipino-made essentials from a variety of shops ranging from snack food, health & beauty, groceries & pet stores, fashion, and more, at discounted rates. This year’s #TatakPinoy Virtual Trade Fair will feature a diverse range of local sellers from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This is among Shopee’s many initiatives to empower local businesses to shift online and encourage users to support them. Alongside these virtual trade fairs, sellers are also provided with different marketing tools, training, and initiatives to help them maximize their businesses’ growth on the platform such as Shopee University Summit, where local MSMEs can learn ways to drive their business growth from industry speakers and leaders.

The virtual trade fair will also feature products from beloved Filipino brands such as Splash Personal Care, Zenutrients, Go Natural, Ever Bilena, San Miguel Foods, EQ, Lifeline Clothing, Sweetbaby, and Tala by Kyla.

DTI’s Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion Director Marievic Bonoan says, “Being able to provide our local MSMEs with opportunities for growth and development is one of our top priorities at the DTI. We understand the important role e-commerce platforms, like Shopee, play in creating a seamless digital transition for MSMEs. Through initiatives like the #TatakPinoy Virtual Trade Fair, we believe that we can help these businesses maximize their full potential and make the digital transition smoother.”

Shopee Philippines Director Martin Yu says, “Supporting MSMEs is at the very core of what we do. We are deeply committed to creating more opportunities to help our local businesses adapt and thrive in the e-commerce industry through initiatives like our #TatakPinoy Virtual Trade Fair. We look forward to this opportunity to once again help our sellers in their e-commerce journey, and also allow our users to support these community-owned businesses.”

Aside from the wide range of products available at the #TatakPinoy Virtual Trade Fair, Shopee users will also also enjoy ShopeePay vouchers for 20% off with a minimum purchase of Php 300, valid on all #TatakPinoy: Virtual Trade Fair items this March 18-24.

For more information about the #TatakPinoy: Virtual Trade Fair, visit https://shopee.ph/m/tatakpinoy2022.