Manila: Senator Sherwin Gatchalian emphasized the importance of purchasing locally made goods to sustain jobs and boost the country's economic recovery during the observance of Made in the Philippines Products Week. Gatchalian highlighted that this celebration not only showcases Filipino ingenuity and talent but also ensures that local communities directly benefit from stronger local enterprises.
According to Philippines News Agency, Gatchalian stated, "Bawat biling lokal, trabaho at kabuhayan ang kapital. Kaya suportahan natin ang mga lokal na produkto dahil ito rin ay pamumuhunan sa mga pangarap at kabuhayan ng ating kapwa Pilipino (Every local purchase is an investment in jobs and livelihoods. Supporting local products is also an investment in the dreams and future of our fellow Filipinos)." He emphasized that Made in the Philippines Products Week, observed annually from August 17 to 23 under Republic Act 3880, aims to promote Filipino-made goods and strengthen the local manufacturing sector.
The senator also pointed to the OTOP (One Town, One Product) Philippines Act, enacted in 2022, which institutionalizes a government program encouraging micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to develop products or services based on local culture, resources, and competitive advantages. Gatchalian noted that both initiatives are designed to support entrepreneurship, create sustainable jobs, and foster national pride in local products, all of which are crucial for post-pandemic growth.
