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.

OPPO, Bea Alonzo showcase the all-new OPPO Reno12 F 5G at SM City Dasmariñas

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Continuing to make the AI Smartphone experience accessible to more Filipinos, leading global smart device brand OPPO along with its brand ambassador Bea Alonzo welcomed OPPO's most accessible AI smartphone, the OPPO Reno12 F 5G (Php 18,999), in a fun-filled afternoon in SM City Dasmariñas.

OPPO Philippines Brand Manager Gab Espedido, Brand Ambassador Bea Alonzo and Assistant PR Manager Mark Ordoñez

Fans and tech enthusiasts alike gathered to have a firsthand experience of the remarkable and intuitive AI features of the newest addition to the renowned Reno Series through interactive booths that showcased AI Eraser 2.0 and AI Studio and BeaconLink.

Bea Alonzo, who took SM City Dasmariñas by storm, shared how she enjoys using the OPPO Reno12 F 5G and its features for her everyday life, including its 50MP Main Camera, AI imaging and productivity features, sleek design and outstanding durability. "The OPPO Reno12 F 5G is true to its promise of taking true to life and realistic-quality photos na nakakaproud na i-share sa social media. With the AI features such as AI Eraser 2.0 and AI Studio that comes with it, taking photos and videos have been much easier and enjoyable," Bea shared with the crowd.

Beyond the camera capabilities, Bea also highlighted how she loves having zero worries from any potential damages when using the OPPO Reno12 F 5G with its durability due to its All-Round Armor that offers unmatched protection. "One of the things I love about this phone is how durable it is. The OPPO Reno12 F 5G doesn’t just look good, pero super tibay din nito with its all-round armor that keeps the phone safe. With the OPPO Reno12 F 5G, I don’t have to worry about scratching or denting my phone kasi it is very sturdy."

Bea Alonzo poses for the camera as she flexes the stylish Amber Orange colorway of the 

OPPO Reno12 F 5G

As a well-rounded actress and an entrepreneur, Bea finds herself in a lot of meetings on the daily, and the AI tools of the OPPO Reno12 F 5G like the AI Summary and AI Recording Summary come in very handy especially during busy days. “Amazed din ako sa ibang AI tools of my OPPO Reno12 F 5G dahil mas napapadali ang everyday life ko. Whenever my team and I are caught up during online meetings, madali na lang ma-summarize yung mga pinag-usapan because of AI Summary” Bea shared.

Adding more excitement during the mall show, Bea took time to participate in fun and exciting games and a meet and greet portion where her fans had the chance to interact with the box office queen.

She also announced a special collaboration between OPPO and her own bag brand, BASH, which is a part of the exclusive perks awaiting new OPPO Reno12 F 5G users. "I’m proud to introduce this special collaboration between OPPO and BASH! You can be one of the first 150 OPPO Reno12 F 5G users na pwedeng magredeem ng customized Billow Mini Pocket made especially for the newest OPPO AI Phone through the MyOPPO app!" Bea added.

Bea also made a special visit to the freshly-renovated OPPO Brand Store in SM City Dasmariñas to check out the latest OPPO products on display. The new-look OPPO Brand Store promises to level up the customer experience of loyal OPPO users in Southern Luzon.

Grab your OPPO Reno12 F 5G and experience the power of AI

Start your journey to AI with OPPO’s more accessible AI phone! The OPPO Reno12 F 5G is priced at Php 18,999 and comes in two trendy colorways - Amber Orange and Olive Green.

Pre-order is ongoing until August 30 on all OPPO authorized offline stores nationwide and comes with a free TJ654 Bluetooth Speaker.

On top of the exclusive OPPO x BASH Billow Mini Pocket*, MyOPPO App users can also redeem other perks for OPPO Reno12 F 5G until stocks last:

● 4,500 Mabuhay Miles

● P1,000 Happy Skin Gift Code

● P300 Zalora Gift Code for those who create a new My OPPO account and redeem the code within 30 days

*deliveries start September 22

If you want to add an extra layer of protection for your OPPO Reno12 F 5G, you can purchase an OPPO Care for a discounted price of PHP 999 until September 30. It offers one-time free screen replacement for accidental impact, crash, or collision damage within the first 12 months, and extending the warranty by another 12 months for performance issues from factory defects, excluding screen damage.

For more information on the OPPO Reno12 F 5G’s availability, MyOPPO App benefits, exclusive promos and OPPO Care protection plans, please visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ and Facebook page.

Visa collaborates with Good Transport and GHL to enable contactless payments in Cebu and Mandaue City modern jeepneys in first transit project in the Philippines

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Visa, a world leader in digital payments, is collaborating with Good Transport Solutions Inc. (GTSI), a transit mobility solutions provider, and GHL, a leading nationwide payment service provider and payment acquirer. This collaboration has enabled the use of Visa cards for payments on modern jeepneys in Cebu and Mandaue City, the second biggest city in Cebu.

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Visa cards can be used to pay on modern jeepneys in Cebu and Mandaue City, creating a seamless transit experience and inclusive acceptance for daily commuters and tourists in the Philippines

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The initiative kicked off today with an official launch ceremony at the Cebu IT Park Transport Terminal, with Good Transport Solutions Inc. (GTSI) working in partnership with local transport operators, Lahug Apas Transport Cooperative (LATRANSCO) and Mandaue Transport Cooperative (MTC), to launch 120 modern jeepneys in Cebu and 20 modern jeepneys in Mandaue City. The onboard terminals in these vehicles now accept Visa payments. This initiative, part of a pilot project, signifies Visa's commitment to promoting transit acceptance in the Philippines with plans to expand to more modes of transit in coming years.

Jeffrey Navarro Talking: Visa Philippines Country Manager Jeffrey Navarro at the launch of Visa’s first transit project in the Philippines. The pilot signifies Visa’s commitment to promote transit acceptance in the country with plans to expand to more modes of transit in the coming years.

Jeff Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines, said: "We are thrilled to unveil Visa's inaugural transit project in the Philippines. This initiative aims to enhance the travel experience for daily commuters and tourists in Mandaue City by offering a wider array of payment options. As tourism in the Philippines rebounds, we have observed a growth in inbound tourism and this partnership will make the transit experience more seamless for tourists. The future of transit, both globally and within the Philippines, is poised to create inclusivity through open-loop, contactless payment systems in public transit, and will be centered around providing commuters with seamless, convenient, and secure payment options.”

Visa Card on Contactless Machine: Visa cards can now be used in select Cebu City and Mandaue City modern jeepneys, providing commuters with more seamless, convenient, and secure payment options.

In February 2024, Cebu experienced a 69% year-on-year increase in visitors, welcoming 104,439 tourists, according to the Department of Tourism[1]. Meanwhile, Mandaue City, a popular tourist destination in Cebu, recorded 228,472 tourist arrivals between January and September 2022[2]. With such strong tourism growth, the ability to use Visa cards on public transit significantly enhances convenience, as travelers increasingly prefer secure, contactless digital payments. Visa's Global Travel Intentions Study highlights this shift, revealing that 97% of Asia Pacific travelers plan to use card payments (credit, debit, or prepaid) on their trips, while only 17% intend to carry foreign currency (cash)[3].

Brezhnev Tero, CEO, Good Transport Solutions Inc. (GTSI), said: “We are proud to partner with Visa and GHL to bring the first-of-its-kind contactless payment solution to the Philippines’ transport sector through our Transport Mobility Solution, the Bus Revenue Tracker System (BRTS). This groundbreaking collaboration not only revolutionizes fare collection with enhanced efficiency and security but also redefines the commuter experience. By leading the way in transport innovation, we are making every journey smoother, faster, and more convenient, setting a new standard for public transport in the country.”

Ceremonial Tapping: [L-R] Gary Lauriano, BOD, Good Transport Solutions, Inc; Brezhnev Tero, CEO, Good Transport Solutions, Inc; Randolph Ian Clet, DOTr Project Manager; MS. Judy Dela Cruz Gabato, DOT 7 Chief Tourism Operations Officer; MR. Jeff Navarro, Country Manager, Visa Philippines; Ceasar Michelena, Chairman, Good Transport Solutions, Inc; Jay Tirona, CEO of GHL Systems Philippines Inc., at the launch of Visa’s first transit project in the Philippines in partnership with GTSI and GHL Systems Philippines. The project enables contactless payments in 120 modern jeepneys in Cebu City and 20 in Mandaue City.

Jay Tirona, CEO, GHL Systems Philippines Inc, said: “This partnership is an exciting example of how technology and digital innovation in payments can come together positively for the private and public sectors, and ultimately, for the benefit of Filipinos who ride these jeepneys every day. These efficiencies drive social and economic change and we need to start with a focused approach, which I believe will eventually and inevitably be adapted across public transport systems nationwide.”

Event: Visa Philippines, together with its partners GTSI, GHL, and representatives from the local government at the launch of Visa’s first transit project in the Philippines that aims to simplify public transit payments by introducing a contactless payment option on select modern jeepneys in Cebu City and Mandaue City.

Faster and more seamless travel through a cashless, open-loop system

The rapid urbanization across Asia Pacific, with 120,000 people moving to cities daily, has underscored the need for efficient public transit systems. Governments, including the Philippines, are investing in these systems as part of their strategies to mitigate road congestion, with a focus on simplifying public transit payments and increasing digital payment options.

Visa’s Global Urban Mobility survey found that 58% of commuters favor a unified payment method for all transport modes, as currently half of them use four or more different methods each month[4]. Meanwhile, another Visa survey[5] showed that implementing open-loop, contactless payment systems in public transit agencies creates a faster, safer, and more hygienic payment experience. Such a system promotes inclusivity and accessibility in public transit, even for those without access to traditional banking services, with modern payment systems simplifying fare processes for transit agencies, reducing costs and mitigating financial risks.

“With Visa making access to payments more inclusive, we are glad to be moving the needle in embracing innovative systems such as the open-loop payment system which significantly enhances the commuting experience for all,” Navarro added. “This approach not only makes urban mobility more efficient and secure but ensures that everyone, especially those underserved by traditional banking services, has access to seamless and reliable public transportation.”

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[1] Department of Tourism, Feb 2024 Inbound Tourism Update. http://www.tourism.gov.ph/files/2024/tourism_demand/04/Inbound/04-08/February%202024%20arrivals%20(as%20of%2005%20Mar%202024).pdf

[2] “Cebu’s tourist arrivals reach 1.8M in 9 months”, December 2022. https://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/business/cebus-tourist-arrivals-reach-18m-in-9-months

[3] “Contactless payments, experiential travel top Asia Pacific travel needs”, November 2023. https://www.visa.com.sg/about-visa/blog/bdp/2023/11/27/contactless-payments-experiential-1701068432525.html

[4] “Choice, Convenience, Contactless: Future of Public Transit in Asia Pacific”, October 2023. https://www.visa.com.sg/about-visa/blog/bdp/2023/10/01/choice-convenience-contactless-1696130103907.html

[5] Visa Economic Empowerment Institute (VEEI) and ThoughtLab. “Reimagining ridership: Open-loop payments and the future of urban mobility”, 2023. https://usa.visa.com/content/dam/VCOM/regional/na/us/sites/documents/veei-reimagining-ridership.pdf

Santé Barley Takes the Lead in Boosting Running and Wellness in the Philippines

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One of a kind running series in the Philippines partners with Santé Barley to promote running as a way to live more, do more

From L-R: Andrea Intalan- General Manager Sante Fitness Lab, Joey Marcelo CEO, Sante, Jonah Rivera and Christian Marcelo- Santé Barley Triteam, Pauline Bulatao - Corporate Communications, Santé

In an exciting move to promote healthier living among Filipinos, Santé Barley, the barley authority in the Philippines, proudly announces its role as a co-presenter and the Official Nutrition Partner of HOKA Trilogy Run Asia 2024.

Since its inception in 2010, HOKA Trilogy Run Asia formerly known as RUNRIO Trilogy, has fueled the nation's passion for running, cultivating an active lifestyle, and nurturing a vibrant community of athletes and enthusiasts alike. Now that more Filipinos are embracing the sport and the running scene has matured, Santé Barley recognizes the significance of this partnership, marking a pivotal moment for the brand as it expands its reach and advocates for an active and healthy lifestyle.

The increase in the number of participants was evident during the opening race on April 8, with 8,000 runners taking part. Subsequently, more people have been registering, and organizers anticipate a turnout of at least 64,000 participants for this year’s HOKA Trilogy Run Asia.

Santé CEO Joey Marcelo expressed his enthusiasm, noting that this partnership represents a significant opportunity to promote healthier lifestyles among Filipinos.

“We are thrilled to partner with HOKA Trilogy Run Asia, not only to expand Santé Barley’s reach but, more importantly, to promote health and fitness across the Philippines. Just as Santé Barley is packed with nutritional benefits, we believe in holistic wellness, and this alliance presents an exciting opportunity to inspire individuals to live more and do more,” said Marcelo.

Marcelo also shared that within the Santé community, more employees and business owners are joining the races, making running a viable, affordable, and accessible choice to stay active.

“The beauty of running is that you can do it whenever and wherever you want. Whether you run solo, with groups, or even if you don’t join races like this and just set your own PRs (personal records), you can still enjoy the sport. So, I am really glad that we get to share this positive outlook on running within the Santé community and, of course, with the general public,” Marcelo added.

The partnership aligns perfectly with HOKA Trilogy Run Asia's mission of promoting inclusivity and encouraging Filipinos to confidently adopt a healthier lifestyle. With a growing number of participants in their races, HOKA Trilogy Run Asia is expanding its reach to locations across the Philippines. Santé Barley’s support will further fuel this enthusiasm, fostering a positive, health-conscious community through running.

The races will take place across six cities in the country, including Baguio, Cebu, Iloilo/Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, and Davao, with a National Finals in Pasay, featuring a total of 19 races nationwide. Several races have already been completed but interested runners can check out the dates below to participate in the upcoming legs.

Schedule of Races:

●        Bacolod (July 28, 2024)

●        Pasay, Manila (August 4, 2024)

●        Cebu (August 18, 2024)

●        Cagayan De Oro (September 15 and October 27, 2024)

●        Baguio (September 29, 2024)

●        Iloilo (October 13, 2024)

●        Davao (October 20, 2024)

●        National Finals in Pasay (December 8, 2024)

In every race organized by RunRio Inc., Santé Barley sets up a booth where participants can enjoy Santé Barley products and experience the benefits of Santé before and after the race. This addition significantly enhances the overall race experience, providing runners with the necessary nutrition to perform and recover better.

Santé Barley’s digital presence will also play a role in promoting the said races, with the help of its e-branches in Luzon (including Baguio City), Visayas (Cebu, Iloilo, and Bacolod), and Mindanao (Cagayan de Oro and Davao). Santé Barley is also part of other Run Rio races like Earth Day Run, Clark Marathon, Manila Half Marathon, and Manila Marathon, further solidifying its commitment to promoting running as a way to live healthier lives.

Through this partnership, Santé Barley, RunRio Inc. and HOKA Trilogy Run Asia are not only promoting fitness and athleticism but also championing a lifestyle centered on well-being, vitality, and overall health. Together, they aim to inspire individuals of all ages and backgrounds to embrace the journey towards a healthier, more active future.

To learn more about Santé Barley and other Santé products, visit its website at mySanté.com.

J&T Express PH strengthens community service commitment through Brigada Eskwela 2024

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J&T Express, one of the leading delivery service providers in the Philippines, has once again linked up with the Department of Education (DepEd) and various school administrators from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao in support of this year's Brigada Eskwela initiative to assist students, with the theme of "Bayanihan Para sa Matatag na Paaralan”.

As part of its continued initiative to support local communities, J&T Express Philippines took part once again in DepEd’s annual school supplies distribution and maintenance program. This effort brings together education stakeholders, including its employees, teachers, and parents who volunteer their time and resources to prepare public school facilities for the new academic school year.

"At J&T Express, we strive to demonstrate our commitment beyond delivering packages across the nation. We believe that even simple acts of support for our students can make a meaningful difference in providing them with a conducive learning environment. Through our efforts, we aim to contribute to the development of our future leaders," said Joseph Emmanuel Orcine, Branding Department Representative of J&T Express Philippines.

From its kick-off activity in July until August, J&T Express extended its helping hands to public schools in more humble and remote barangays including in Metro Manila, Laguna, Nueva Ecija, Lapu-Lapu City, and Agusan Del Norte with its employees also taking an active part in the initiative.

“Partaking in DepEd’s Brigada Eskwela is one of our ways to embody our commitment to supporting the programs of our local and national government agencies. We wanted to strengthen our role in serving not only our customers but also the local communities", Orcine concludes.

In this initiative, J&T Express puts forward its passion for service, striving to set its employees as role models when it comes to delivering action and reflecting its core values and social responsibility. As this valuable partnership continues, J&T Express reaffirms its dedication to the Brigada Eskwela program, contributing to the nation's progress by playing an active role in the education sector. Nurturing an environment not just for students who are eager to start the school year, but also for the next generation of Filipinos.

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About J&T Express

J&T Express is a global logistics provider founded in 2015, currently operating in 13 countries worldwide: Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Cambodia, Singapore, China, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Mexico, Brazil, and Egypt.

Adhering to its “customer-oriented and efficiency-based” mission, J&T Express is committed to providing customers with integrated logistics solutions through intelligent infrastructure and digital logistics network as part of its global strategy to connect the world with greater efficiency and bring logistical benefits to all.