PHL, South Korea Expand Cooperation and Strengthen Trade in Priority Sectors

The Philippines and South Korea agreed to further develop supply chain, energy cooperation, and expansion of trade and investment during the second meeting of the Joint Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation (JCTEC) held in Seoul on 18 October 2022.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary and Board of Investments (BOI) Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo affirmed the vital role of the JCTEC in boosting the relationship between the Philippines and Korea. “From our inaugural meeting in 2019, significant strides have been taken to deepen our trade and investment relations and our long-standing partnership. We now have a free trade agreement on the horizon, which is yet another testament to our shared vision of achieving mutually beneficial outcomes for our countries.”

Further citing the Philippines as a valuable trade and strategic partner of South Korea, Deputy Minister Dae-jin Jeong of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE) underscored the JCTEC as a platform to review and discuss ongoing trade concerns and areas of interest for bilateral partnership. “The Philippines is the first country in ASEAN to establish diplomatic relations with Korea, and through the JCTEC, we hope to strengthen cooperation and expand trade and investment ties.”

On supply chains, both sides agreed to maximize areas for complementation in green metals and related industries such as electronic vehicles and semiconductors, focusing on building stable and sustainable supply chains for critical raw materials for production and manufacturing.

“We are positioning the Philippines as a key player in the supply of critical minerals given our vast resources of green metals such as nickel, cobalt, and copper – inputs for the production and manufacture of electronic goods and batteries for electric vehicles. With Korea’s manufacturing capabilities especially in electronics, we hope to pursue a meaningful partnership in this area,” remarked Undersecretary Rodolfo.

Echoing the Philippines’ interest, Deputy Minister Jeong enjoined both countries to work together to pursue said endeavor. “We will engage in technical discussions to pursue our strategic partnership through the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on core raw materials and critical supply chains cooperation. The Philippines ranks tenth worldwide in terms of mineral production and is especially rich in nickel, chromium, and copper.”

Meanwhile, on energy cooperation, aligned with the need to respond to climate change challenges amidst ongoing global initiatives towards carbon neutrality, both sides committed to establish a cooperation-based mechanism on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and nuclear power.

On the expansion of trade and investment, the two nations acknowledged the continuing efforts of both sides in enhancing market access of key products, including the signing of the Philippines-Korea Free Trade Agreement (PH-KR FTA) targeted in 2023. Activities to promote the utilization of the FTA through seminars and information sessions were also discussed. Further, in support of industrial initiatives, they agreed to maintain active engagement on ongoing Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects and to explore other areas for complementation such as collaboration related to the Philippines’ PUV modernization program.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of regional mechanisms in building towards mutual economic gains, among which is the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF). In September 2022, the Philippines and South Korea joined other IPEF partners in endorsing the statements for the four pillars on Trade, Supply Chains, Clean Economy, and Fair Economy.

The second meeting of the Joint Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation (JCTEC) was co-chaired by Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo and Deputy Minister Dae-jin Jeong of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE).

First established in 2013, the JCTEC serves as the primary mechanism of both countries to pursue economic cooperation and trade and investment initiatives. The inaugural meeting of the JCTEC was held in June 2019 in Seoul, South Korea.

The Philippines views the JCTEC as a platform to better identify opportunities, coordinate and streamline activities of shared interest leading to targeted benefits and productive outcomes especially in trade and investments. Once the FTA is in place, the Philippines envisions that the comprehensive scope of its ECOTECH chapter will ensure that both sides will continue to benefit from complementation in priority sectors and areas, especially in manufacturing and infrastructure.

South Korea is the Philippines’ 5th largest trading partner, 8th largest export market and 3rd largest import supplier in 2021. In the same year, South Korea ranked 6th in terms of approved investments, with notable investment activities in construction, real estate, manufacturing, and accommodation and food service.

Here's what you'll find at the National Trade Fair Digital Mall

Last December 15, the Department of Trade and Industry - Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion announced the opening of the National Trade Fair Digital Mall, a permanent e-commerce platform for Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the country's 17 regions.

The Philippines is home to some of the largest malls in the world, and "malling" is recognized as a favorite pastime for many Filipino families. People spend time at the mall not just to go shopping; more often, it's a way to relax, check out the latest trends, keep updated on what's new, and people watch.

But what does the NTF Digital Mall have to offer?

Hundreds of digital stores and exhibitors

There are currently 223 MSMEs who have set up their digital stores within the NTF platform. Visiting https://ntfdigimall.linker.store/ takes you to the home page which shows you the top categories of the products offered. These include gifts & souvenirs, home & living, fashion & accessories, food & beverages, and health & beauty. There is also a search box where you can type in a specific item you are shopping for.

You can also check out a particular exhibitor by clicking on the "Visit Store" button. This will open that exhibitor's online store where you can see all of the products offered, complete with description and price. To purchase a product, just click "add to cart" or "buy now." When you've finished shopping at that store, you can complete the checkout process with the delivery and payment details.

For B2B opportunities, interested parties can get more information about the exhibitor through the "view our business profile" button.

Inspirational success stories

Being an entrepreneur is not easy, and building up a business requires taking risks, learning from mistakes, and making sacrifices. To help struggling entrepreneurs find encouragement and inspiration from those who understand their particular challenges, the NTF Digital Mall also shares the success stories of selected MSMEs.

Online learning resources

Many Filipinos discovered their entrepreneurial talent during the pandemic, launching home-based businesses to supplement their income. To help aspiring tycoons build a sound foundation for their business, the NTF Digital Mall offers online learning resources and webinars on topics such as e-commerce, MSME tips, and consumer welfare.

The NTF Digital Mall intends to showcase the best products from all over the country. As more MSMEs qualify for the stringent criteria, the list of exhibitors in this e-commerce platform is expected to grow. The NTF Digital Mall is powered by UnionBank (UB) GlobalLinker, a free and innovative platform with tools for efficient business management and network expansion to help MSMEs grow online.

For more information about the DTI-Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion, please follow their social media accounts @BDTP on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. You may also email bdtp@dti.gov.ph.

PH Exports Grow by 5.1% in Q3 2019

MAKATI – Amidst the backdrop of global uncertainty stemming from the US-China trade war, Philippine exports of goods and services remained resilient, as it expanded by 5.1% year-on-year (yoy) to US$ 25.0 billion in the 3rd quarter (Q3) of 2019. This export growth was even an improvement compared to its second quarter (Q2) 2019 yoy rate of 4.3%.

"President Rodrigo Duterte's directive of being a friend to all nations allowed the Philippines to grow our exports despite the ongoing US-China trade war, which may have caused the decline in exports of other countries." said Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez.

Sec. Lopez also said that the Philippines is pushing for the conclusion of free trade agreements like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Philippine-Korea Free Trade Agreement in 2020 to expand market access for manufactured goods as well as agri-based products.

He shared that the Philippines is also working on a free trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and is exploring new export markets in consumer-rich Africa. The trade chief advised that export marketing should be in tandem with increasing the supply to meet the demand of foreign markets.

The Q3 export growth performance was strengthened by an 8.6% yoy increase in services exports, which totaled US$ 11.1 billion for the quarter. It was also backed by the 2.4% yoy uptick in the goods exports valued at US$ 13.9 billion.

Growth in services exports was boosted by a double-digit increase in exports of travel services due to bigger international tourist arrivals. Aside from travel services, Information Technology and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) also contributed to the services exports’ good showing.

On the other hand, exports of electronics products, bananas, and forestry and mineral products contributed to the moderate increase in the exports of goods.

Goods and services’ exports climbed 3.7% yoy to US$ 70.4 billion on a cumulative basis spanning January to September 2019. Services exports rose by 7.7% yoy to US$ 30.6 billion driven by travel services as well as technical, trade-related, and other business services. Meanwhile, goods exports increased by 0.7% yoy to US$ 39.8 billion primarily because of fruits and vegetables.

DTI PREPARES TO REVITALIZE MANUFACTURING AND EMBRACE INDUSTRY 4.0

MAKATI CITY - The DTI is in the thick of preparations to revitalize manufacturing & embrace Industry 4.0, as it surges forward with its flagship industrial strategy which it introduced in 2016, the Inclusive Innovation Industrial Strategy or i3S.

Speaking at the recently held Manufacturing Summit 2019, DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez provided a detailed picture of the Philippine manufacturing sector’s performance since 2013. While the country’s manufacturing sector exhibited a slowdown in growth in the recent quarters of this year due mostly to the US-China Trade War overall global slowdown in growth, and rising global protectionism, he pointed out that looking at the bigger picture, Philippine manufacturing has been growing at a respectable rate, with manufacturing share-to-GDP remaining almost unchanged for the past few years. “Despite (the slowdown), we are enjoying fast growth due to domestic demand,” Trade Secretary Lopez declared.

“The bright spot is, our investments continue to grow,” Secretary Lopez mentioned, as he noted that significant increases in approved manufacturing investments were expected to expand production capacities, address supply chains gaps, and improve Global Value Chain Participation. Data shows that IPA-approved investments in 2016-2018 were at Php 730B, 57.3% higher than during the period 2013-2015. Moreover, growth in Board of Investments – approved manufacturing investments increased 8-fold: from 82% in 2016, it grew to 95% in 2017 then zoomed to 327% in 2018.

In order to revitalize Philippine manufacturing towards a sustainable and inclusive industrial development, Secretary Lopez laid down plans to address growth constraints and leverage government support. These include: HR development to upskill workers and increase productivity; small value chain interventions to address raw materials shortage; incentivizing energy technologies to help bring down power cost; logistics interventions to cut down red tape and standardize shipping cost; and countering unfair trade practices including smuggling and substandard and counterfeit goods through mandatory product certification.

He also gave the audience a peek at industry 4.0 readiness initiatives that the DTI is planning to do to prepare firms, industries, and workers for the future. These include the SME academy as training facility for 4IR technologies to upskill and reskill our workforce to be 4IR-ready; positioning the Philippines as an AI Center of Excellence; Industry 4.0 roadmaps for specific sectors, and an Industry 4.0 pilot factory to serve as a demonstration facility. “We have to increase domestic capacity to support the growing demand of our economy. We should be prepared,” Sec Lopez reiterated. “There is a need to revitalize the manufacturing sector. This is the sector that can create more jobs, better income for our Filipinos.” Sec Lopez concluded.

Industry Policy Determines Trade Strategy – DTI Chief

MAKATI – Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez said that industry policy determines trade strategy and shared DTI’s unified approach to spurring trade and investments in DTI’s One Country, One Voice (OCOV) forum last 4 December.

“Essentially, the objective is to develop and strengthen our industries that will generate local employment. Our positions in trade negotiations have to be aligned with our plans in industry development,” Sec. Lopez said.

“What industry do we think will be strategic? What industry should be developed? Where do we have comparative advantage? Then we will put our minds, our support and our programs behind all these industries which we will be promoting” he added.

The trade chief also stressed the importance of trade agreements, since 93% of all exports go to countries with existing agreements with the Philippines.

“President Rodrigo Duterte’s independent foreign policy allowed the Philippines to pursue trade relations with both US and China and helped begin trade relations with non-traditional partners, like Russia and some countries in the Middle East. The Department of Trade and Industry is doing its part to assure that the Philippines is a friend to all,” said Secretary Lopez.

However, he added that trade relations should be fair to both countries: “We, the Philippines, are decent trading partners. We follow the rules and we expect partners to also treat us fairly. Otherwise, we will have no choice but to retaliate—but again still following the rules and procedures for negotiation.”

The Philippines has seven free trade agreements, two bilateral agreements, and 30 existing Joint Economic Cooperation agreements, and is benefiting from Generalized System of Preferences (GSPs) from 10 countries, namely US, EU, Australia, Belarus, Canada, Japan, Kazakhstan, New Zealand, Russia, and Turkey.

Ambassador Ron Sorini, Former Chief Negotiator for the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR), said that for the US, the only serious candidate for free trade agreement negotiations is the Philippines. Amb. Sorini gave a talk on the topic “Identifying the Policy Environment for New Generation FTAs in the New Era of Globalization.”

Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo explained DTI’s “Last Touch Strategy” with the vision for the Philippines to become a strategic manufacturing and export base. This strategy aims to integrate the Philippines into the regional value chain production networks and provide the country with the greatest local value addition and best market access for its products.

To reap the maximum benefits from this strategy, Usec. Rodolfo added that the country must first ensure deep industrial capability in basic industries and have the widest network of supplying industries.

The OCOV forum informed stakeholders about the latest developments in the country’s international trade and investment engagements and revolved around three topics: Philippine development and trade policy; rising global protectionism; and forging ahead through strategic economic partnerships.

The forum’s speakers include Senators Imee Marcos and Koko Pimentel, Albay Congressman Joey Salceda, Former DTI Secretary Gregory Domingo, DTI Assistant Secretary Allan Gepty, Former USTR Director Kellie Meiman Hock, Solar Philippines President Leandro Leviste, Luen Thai Executive Vice President Sunny Tan, former National Competitiveness Council Co-chair Guillermo Luz, and Ambassador Antonio Basilio.

DTI Chief Eyes More Funds for MSMEs in Local, Int'l Trade Fairs

MANDALUYONG - Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said that the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is awaiting the Senate's approval of additional budget to send more micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to local and international trade fairs.

In his welcome remarks at the Kalakal CALABARZON Trade Fair and the National Capital Region's Metro Fiesta Trade Fair on 5 December, Sec. Lopez shared that MSMEs usually pay for their spaces at trade fairs, but if the agency's additional budget request will be approved, they would be able to provide said spaces for free.

"Market access is part of DTI's 7Ms of Successful Entrepreneurship and trade fairs give MSMEs access to a wider market for their products. We hope that exposure in these five-day fairs will be the beginning of their entry to the mainstream and export markets," said Sec. Lopez.

DTI holds several regional and national trade fairs and heads the country's participation in international trade fairs, like the China International Import Expo (CIIE). This year, Philippine exhibitors booked around USD 390 million from CIIE, and Sec. Lopez hopes that with more funds, more MSMEs can participate in CIIE and other trade fairs.

The trade chief, however, advised entrepreneurs to innovate continuously and work toward increasing their production capacity to meet future demands.

"Even if we're able to open market access to other countries, if MSMEs don't have enough products, they will still end up with nothing to sell," said Sec. Lopez.

For MSMEs looking for capital to increase production, he recommended DTI's Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso (P3) Program, low-interest, no collateral business loan to combat "5-6" lenders. Entrepreneurs can go to any DTI Negosyo Center to know the nearest P3 conduit MFIs or cooperatives and loan amounts from PHP 5,000 to PHP 200,000. Those who wish to borrow larger amounts can go directly to the DTI-Small Business Corporation.

The Kalakal CALABARZON Trade Fair and Metro Fiesta will both run from December 4 to 8 at the Mega Trade Halls of SM Megamall. With 120 exhibitors from Metro Manila and 180 from Region 4A, shoppers can choose from a variety of products like processed food, wearables (footwear, bags, garments, and fashion accessories), and home and holiday decors.

Madame Honeylet Avanceña, a staunch supporter of MSME development and an entrepreneur herself, graced the opening of the trade expo. Also present were Senator Cynthia Villar, DTI Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona, DTI Assistant Secretary Demphna Du-Naga, DTI Regional Directors Malou Toledo, and Marcelina Alcantara, and Senator Koko Pimentel's Chief of Staff Jeffrey Yu.

DTI Targets Truckers, Forwarders to Adopt New Road Freight Transport Standards

The Department of Trade and Industry- Competitiveness Bureau (DTI-CB), in cooperation with Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) and DTI- Region 3 Office pushes the adoption of Philippine National Standard on Road Freight Transport (PNS 2135:2018) to fleet operators and hauling companies, in a bid to improve the competitiveness of logistics services sector in the country.

“An efficient and reliable logistics services plays a critical role in supporting the development of our industries. We are pleased to introduce our programs that can cater to the needs of trucking sector and enable us to learn and implement the best global practices and standards as a way to help improve the competitiveness of the country’s logistics services sector.” DTI Competitiveness Bureau Director Lilian Salonga said.

During the Forum on Standards and Other Concerns Affecting Logistics Sector held in Subic, Zambales, the DTI-CB in partnership with BPS presented the guidelines of the PNS 2135:2018 to the fleet operators and freight forwarders who are planning to adopt the said standard.

The PNS 2135:2018 provides indicators and targets on how to measure performance of road freight activities and initiatives to enhance road freight transport operations. It is hinged on four principles:

• Safety - Freedom from unacceptable risk of goods, humans, property, equipment and environment during road transport of commodities.
• Reliability - Ability to perform a required function under given conditions for a given time interval e.g. on time delivery, no damaged goods, preserved quality, no pilferage etc.
• Cost-efficiency - Ability to perform a required function at a minimum possible cost.
• Environmentally sustainable - Ability to perform a required function with minimal negative impact to the environment.

The PNS 2135:2018 was approved in December 2018 through the recommendation of the Technical Committee (BPS/TC 84: Logistics) chaired by DTI-CB and assisted by the DTI-BPS. The committee was composed of members from the truckers’ group, academe, consumer, professional association, research and development, and testing institutions.

The Forum was attended by stakeholders from the trucking and hauling sector, freight forwarding, government, and business community. Resource speakers include Ms. Ma. Theresa Ocampo, Sales and Marketing Superintendent of Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. (SBITC); Mr Samuel Bautista, President and Chief Learning Officer of the Academy of Developmental Logistics Inc., the first organization to adopt the PNS 2135:2018, and Mr. Michael Philip Lazaro, Assistant General Manager of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).

The Philippine National Standards on Road Freight Transport (PNS 2135:2018) is one of the key initiatives outlined in the 10 Commitment of Philippine Logistics Services Sector that underscored the government and private sector’s role in advancing a globally competitive logistics sector.

DTI TO HOLD THE 4TH ANNUAL MANUFACTURING SUMMIT

MAKATI CITY – Continuing the effort to take the country’s manufacturing sector to greater heights and new frontiers, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with the Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) will hold the Manufacturing Summit 2019 on Tuesday, 3 December 2019, at The Peninsula Manila, corner Ayala and Makati Avenue, Makati City.

Now on its fourth year, the summit will once again gather stakeholders from the government, academe, industry, and various development partners to discuss pressing issues affecting the Philippine manufacturing landscape.

Amid the economic volatility, the Philippines has been growing steadily during the current decade, posting an annual average of 6.3%. This is a remarkable improvement from the 4.5% average during the 2000s. In 2018, we grew at 6.2%, one of the highest in Southeast and East Asia and exceeded only slightly by China and Vietnam.

While the country’s long-term figures looked rosy, the manufacturing industry this year only grew by 2.4 percent in the third quarter of 2019, slower compared to the 3.8 percent growth it posted in the same period last year.

The top industry contributory drivers to growth this year include the Chemical Sector with 9.7% growth, Food with 4.4%, Basic Metals with 17.2%, machinery equipment with 14.8%, and electrical machinery with 14.4%.

On the other hand, some sectors contracted, pulling down the growth of the Industry. Topping the list of decliners are Petroleum and Other Fuel Products, 28.3%; Radio, Television and Communication Equipment and Apparatus, 4.3%; Furniture and Fixtures, 11.3%; and Transport Equipment, 5.7%.

The lower growth figures this year pose as a challenge to the manufacturing sector to regroup and look at how to strengthen its core and keep its long-term growth trajectory on an upward path.

With this year’s theme being, “Preparing Philippine Manufacturing for the Future of Production,” the Summit will take stock of the performance of the manufacturing industry, highlight the changes in the domestic economy and global market; discuss the future of manufacturing and agribusiness under Industry 4.0; and consider future skills and human resource development for future production.

The Manufacturing Summit is held as part of the implementation of the government’s Inclusive Innovation Industrial Strategy (i3S). The Summit proceedings will be live-streamed via the official DTI Facebook page accessible at https://www.facebook.com/DTI.Philippines. The program details are available at https://mfgsummit2019.weebly.com/program.html. For further inquiries, you may email MFGSummit2019@dti.gov.ph.

DTI and Sakeholders Set to Discuss Trade Issues and Strategies Under the Trade War

25 November 2019, Manila – The Department of Trade and Industry will hold an international trade forum to discuss international trade policy issues, including the ongoing trade frictions between the world’s economic heavy weights. The forum is part of the DTI’s One Country, One Voice (OCOV) Stakeholder Consultation mechanism on trade policy formulation.

In particular, the forum aims to foster dialogue on how the Philippines can capitalize on the opportunities presented by the trade war and how to address the challenges that hamper Philippine industries from taking full advantage of these opportunities. The forum also aims to tackle how the DTI could enhance its international trade policy strategy, leverage its participation in regional and global value chains, and maximize trade policy tools in light of the rising global protectionism.

Economic simulations of the trade war’s impact on the Philippine economy illustrate minimal negative effects on exports. “While the Philippines is not as vulnerable as other economies, a prolonged trade war could eventually impact Philippine exports” said DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez.

Both the United States and China are major trading partners of the Philippines. The country currently enjoys preferential market access to the United States through the GSP scheme and also has an FTA with China under ASEAN. Secretary Lopez added that apart from these existing mechanisms, “enhanced engagement with other major trading partners as well as with non-traditional partners are also being pursued to help strengthen and diversify Philippine export markets”.

The forum, which will be held in December in Manila, will bring together international experts on trade policy, business leaders, policymakers, industry representatives, and government officials, among others.

Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo highlighted that “the One Country, One Voice consultations is an important pillar in our unified industry and trade strategy that helps ensure that our trade negotiating position remains rational, responsive to, and grounded on the needs of our stakeholders”. Launched in 2011, OCOV ensures transparency and accountability as government undertakes the process of engaging in dialogues, building mutual trust, and arriving at rational, sound and balanced trade policies in pursuit of national development.

DTI brings only the best from the Cordilleras for the 24th IMPAKABSAT Regional Trade Fair

The Department of Trade and Industry-Cordillera Administrative Region (DTI-CAR), formally launches the IMPAKABSAT Regional Trade Fair 2019, last November 15, at Festival Mall, Alabang, Muntinlupa City, which saw the gathering of around 80 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the region’s provinces.

Regional Director for CAR, Myrna Pablo, accentuated through the opening program, IMPAKABSAT, which stands for the region’s six provinces, namely, Ifugao, Mountain Province, Abra, Kalinga, Apayao, Benguet, and the city of Baguio and is then completed with the Ilocano word “kabsat” which means brother or sister, describes the whole of the Cordilleras. This is a manifestation of the rich and vibrant culture in the region and how the products of the participating MSMEs reflect such.

One Town One Product (OTOP) Next Gen Program Manager and Regional Operations Group Assistant Secretary Demphna Du-Naga encouraged the MSMEs to continuously innovate their products through availing OTOP assistance on product development, design, packaging, branding, production capability, among others, transitioning them to be more market-oriented and innovation-driven.

“Ang mandatos ng ating Presidente ay tulungan ang lahat ng mga negosyante sa bansa. Sa pamamagitan ng OTOP Next Gen, ang simpleng produkto ninyo ay sasailalim sa product development at innovation tulad ng packaging at branding. Mas magiging marketable ang produkto, mas mabenta sa merkado.” ASec. Naga said during the opening ceremony.

The annual IMPAKABSAT aims to develop and strengthen small and medium enterprises from the region, through the promotion of its indigenous crafts, skills, resources and investment potentials. Products featured at the trade fair vary from organic and natural products, fresh & processed food, wearables and homestyles, coffee, bamboocraft, woodcraft, and furniture & furnishings.

This year’s edition of the trade fair puts the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) and OTOP Next Gen Program beneficiaries on the spotlight. Likewise, CAR being the coffee capital in the Philippines, visitors and shoppers during the fair were served the best coffee in the region through KAPEtirya.

IMPAKBSAT 2019 will run from November 15-24, 2019, with regular exhibit hours, 10:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.

DTI sets Forum on Standards in Logistics Services in Subic and Cebu: Truckers and haulers urged to adopt the PH National Standard on Road Freight Transport

The Department of Trade and Industry- Competitiveness Bureau (DTI-CB), in cooperation with Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) and DTI- Regional Offices 3 and 7, will conduct a Forum on Standards and other concerns in logistics services sector in Subic, Zambales (18 November) and Cebu City (22 November) with the aim to promote the adoption of Philippine National Standard on Road Freight Transport (PNS 2135:2018) to fleet operators and hauling companies in the country.

“We organized this series of fora to educate the trucking sector about the benefits of implementing the PNS 2135:2018 to their respective companies. We encourage our truckers and haulers to adopt the best global practices and contribute to improving the competitiveness of the Philippine logistics services sector. This offers them an advantage over other companies in providing world-class quality logistics services to our industries.” Competitiveness Bureau Director Lilian Salonga said.

The PNS 2135:2018 was approved in December 2018 through the recommendation of the Technical Committee (BPS/TC 84: Logistics) chaired by DTI-CB and assisted by the DTI-BPS. The committee was composed of members from the truckers’ group, academe, consumer, professional association, research and development, and testing institutions.

Last October, DTI-CB held its first Forum in Tagaytay City, with the BPS presenting the guidelines of the PNS 2135:2018 to the fleet operators and freight forwarders who are planning to adopt the said standard.

“We identified these locations (Region 3, Region 4A, Region 7) for our forum considering its strategic importance to logistics and industries. Being the home to regional gateways and fast growing in terms of economic performance, it is only necessary to advance the development of the logistics services sector in these areas.” Director Salonga added.

Aside from the presentation of PNS 2135:2018 by BPS, the Competitiveness Bureau will share updates on government programs and policies for the development of a globally-competitive logistics services sector, while the Subic Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and Cebu Ports Authority (CPA) were invited to present for Subic and Cebu City fora, respectively.

For interested parties, you may contact the Supply Chain and Logistics Management Division Program Officer Ms Maria Dalisay Alba thru phone (0632.8899.6247) or email: MariaDalisayAlba@dt.gov.ph. You may also visit DTI-Competitiveness Bureau Official Facebook page for event updates.

DTI Pitches PH Trade and Investment Opportunities to Swiss Businesses

ZÜRICH – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC)–Geneva organized a Philippine Business Roundtable for Swiss companies in Zürich, Switzerland on 22 January to highlight the positive macroeconomic fundamentals of the Philippines (PH) and to promote the country’s trade and investment opportunities. The roundtable was co-organized by the Switzerland Global Enterprise (S-GE) and the Swiss-Asian Chamber of Commerce (SACC).

DTI Assistant Secretary Angelo Taningco presented updates on the PH economy and identified factors that make it an attractive investment destination for Swiss businesses. He cited certain areas for boosting trade and investment between PH and Switzerland such as in aerospace, agriculture, electronics, healthcare, IT-BPM, and food and beverages. He likewise discussed opportunities under the bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) between PH and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).

In a previous statement, DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez said that these roundtable meetings with global companies and business chambers will “be our venues to present the huge opportunities in the country that has a fast-growing and more robust economy with meaningful economic strategies and reforms.”

“The Philippines is on a break out and it is the best time to partner with us, given the country’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals,” Asec. Taningco said during his keynote presentation. The Roundtable was opened by Philippines Ambassador to Switzerland Denis Lepatan while Ambassador Manuel A.J. Teehankee, permanent representative to the World Trade Organization, also joined the discussion.

“I encourage Swiss companies to look to the Philippines,” SACC President and Philippine Honorary Consul Urs Lustenberger said during the session. S-GE’s Alberto Silini, in a short video, also enjoined Swiss companies to use the free trade agreement as an entry point to the large, growing Philippine market.

The Geneva Chamber of Commerce and 14 companies from the pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, logistics, equity investments, software development, and research and development sectors actively participated in the open forum.

DTI, CHINESE FIRMS TO COLLABORATE IN PROMOTING PH AS INVESTMENT DESTINATION

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez (3rd from L) discussed possible investment promotions collaboration with Travelzen Worldwide Co., Ltd., Group of Companies and DCM Group of Companies Chairman Thomas Tar Pui Kwok (leftmost) and Yeung Marine Holdings Inc Chairman Donny King Shing Yuen (2nd from L). The collaboration will be in a form of a Philippine Investment and Tourism Center at Shanghai, China. According to Sec. Lopez, the partnership will aid DTI in its investment promotion programs and encourage more Chinese investors to visit the Philippines and look for investment opportunities in the areas of tourism, real estate, and food processing. Travelzen Worldwide Co., Ltd., is the largest B2B hospitality related company in China. Meanwhile, Yeung Marine Holdings is a registered Filipino company that primarily engages in sales and trade of various marine products globally. The group is also involved in fruit distribution, food processing, freight forwarding, aquaculture, and construction. The meeting was also attended by Special Envoy to the People’s Republic of China Ramon Tulfo (3rd from R) Board of Investments (BOI) Managing Head and DTI Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo (2nd from R), BOI International Investments Promotion Service Chief Lanie Dormiendo (rightmost).

Duterte, DTI Grant Entrepreneurship Services to Masbate Beneficiaries

In pursuance of the administration’s full commitment to the development of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country, President Rodrigo Duterte and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon lopez led to the execution of Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay held at Patio de Milagros Resort, Dimasalang, Masbate last January 9.

Secretary Lopez underlined how the DTI’s initiatives and programs led to the continuous growth of MSMEs in the countryside through the years.

“President Rodrigo Duterte is determined to give all Filipinos a better quality of life, whether through more jobs or empowering them to become entrepreneurs. To ensure the latter, we have resolved to push the entrepreneurial revolution in the countryside so that our country’s economic growth will be all inclusive.” Trade Secretary said.

As of 2018, 1,049 Negosyo Centers have been established nationwide, and 14 of these are in Masbate.

Currently, the Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) program in Masbate has helped to create 225 jobs and to generate P5.75 million in investments and P11.5 million in sales.

To stop people from taking on onerous loans, Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso (P3) program, the Department’s microfinancing arm, has released loans to sub-borrowers in Masbate amounting P11,890,000 with 279 sub-borrowers endorsed to micro-financing institutes (MFIs). One hundred seventeen (117) sub-borrowers have already renewed their loans.

There are now 13 Shared Services Facilities (SSFs) established in the province serving 275 beneficiaries and created 219 jobs with P4.52 million in investments and P10.24 million in increased sales. SSF program provides MSMEs access to technology and trainings to expand their production and enhance the quality of their products and services.

Furthermore, to widen the market access of MSMEs, there is the Go Lokal! Program and Trade Fairs like Orgullo Kan Bikol which help mainstream their products. Also, One Town, One Product (OTOP) program has helped launch 112 products from Masbate – 102 are food products and 10 are non-food products. OTOP enables localities and communities to determine, develop, support, and promote culturally-rooted products or services where they can be at the best at or best renowned for. 

Thrust to push entrepreneurship at grass-roots level

In partnership with the Barangay Development Council (BDC), DTI can offer directly to aspiring entrepreneurs in the barangays. With the Barangay Micro Business Enterprises Act (or RA 9178) offering business registration services at the barangay level, business registration in Masbate has jumped from 1,395 in 2016 to 2,696 in 2017.

“That’s why at today’s event, livelihood seeding kits, P3 loans and even fishing and farming tools are available to those determined to start their own business as long as you fulfill requirements. Furthermore, you can get the skills training and the financing seed to become an entrepreneur as part of the Puhunang Regalo ng DTI (PRD), or the P500-challenge start up capital.” Trade Chief said.

In the latter part of the event President Duterte led the awarding of Livelihood Seeding Kits to 3 beneficiaries out of 165 kits and also 3 loan borrowers out of 10 P3 beneficiaries.

Livelihood Seeding Kits is an initiative of DTI through Regional Operations Group (ROG) Assistant Secretary Demphna Du-Naga. Fund sources of this project came from the OTOP Philippines and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). This convergence caters the needs of the beneficiaries by distributing the seeding kits composed of start-up for sari-sari store.