Taguig city: Citing the world-class quality of Filipino-made products and the opportunities they present in the international market, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque urged small business owners to coordinate with the agency for the necessary support. In her speech at the opening of the three-day Wedding Fair at SM Aura Premier in Taguig City on Friday, Roque emphasized the Marcos government's commitment to increasing the export of Filipino products.

According to Philippines News Agency, Roque highlighted the growth of exports, which recorded a 15.4 percent increase last year. She attributed the robust export performance partly to Republic Act 11981, or the Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) law, which empowers local businesses and modernizes domestic industries. Roque encouraged small business owners to leverage these developments and explore the global market, assuring them of the DTI's full support.

Roque mentioned the strategic presence of the Philippine government's 29 trade attach©s worldwide and DTI's 21 offices overseas as vital resources for businesses aiming to sell their products internationally. She pointed out that while electronics and auto parts dominate Philippine exports, agricultural products such as coconut, banana, pineapple, ube (purple yam), and calamansi are emerging as significant contributors.

Roque urged those in the agricultural sector to coordinate with the DTI, promising swift action to facilitate their entry into the global market. She expressed pride in the potential of Filipino products and reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring these products reach international consumers efficiently.