SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque, and DTI-BMDPO Director Marievic Bunoa were present at the 2024 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair opening ceremony. Photo by Grace Libero-Cruz

The much-awaited 2024 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair (NTF) is finally here. It officially opened on August 21 and will take place until August 25 at the Megatrade Halls 1-3 of SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

The NTF is a flagship initiative organized bythe Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)through the Bureau of Market Development,Promotions, and OTOP (BMDPO). It aims topromote the efficient marketing of localproducts and provide a platform for micro,small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) toshowcase their unique and innovativeproducts to a wider audience. Building onthe success of the 2023 Hybrid NationalTrade Fair, which generated Php 42.06-million in sales and attracted over 23,000visitors, this year's event promises to beeven bigger and better.

The 2024 NTF will highlight a diverse rangeof artisanal and non-food products craftedfrom the country's sustainable rawmaterials, such as bamboo, natural fibers,and native grass. It will also feature uniquefood items, Halal products, coconut-basedinnovations for medical use and personalcare, novelty items, holiday decor, home furnishings, and many more.

In addition, the NTF will facilitate business matching and networking activities between MSMEsand institutional buyers, providing opportunities for collaboration and growth. The event willinclude the Philippine Sustainability Pavilion, the Coconut Philippines Pavilion, the KAPEtiryaCoffee Pavilion, the RAPID Growth Project, and the Innovation and Services Cluster forgovernment and private sector partners.

The NTF is open to the public and admission is free.

During the 2024 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair opening ceremony, DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque said, 'This event is not simply a showcase of our products but a testament of the ingenuity, creativity, and resilience of our Filipino MSMEs. As I look around the trade hall, I see more than just products and exhibits, I see the hard work and burning passion of our MSMEs. Every item on display here represents a story of perseverance, innovation, and a deep love for our country and its rich resources, our culture, and our heritage.' In her speech, she further boosted the morale of the MSMEs, which make up 99.5% of the business establishments and 60% of the labor force in the country, by telling them that they are 'the backbone of our economy.'

On this year's theme, 'Go Green! Go Local!,' Roque added, '[It] reminds us that in our pursuit of progress, we must remain rooted in our principles of sustainability and support for our local industries.'

The DTI Secretary also expressed her gratitude for the SM Supermalls, which has been so supportive of the MSMEs. Roque mentioned that SM Group's Teresita Sy-Coson has given '83 malls and ground floor spaces for the MSMEs, not to mention Kultura and other places where MSMEs can really thrive and shine.'

DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque

'Today, as we walk through the pavilions and meet with the MSMEs behind these products, let us remember the power of collaboration,' Roque continued. 'Every product we support and every partnership we forge contributes to a larger movement, one that uplifts and builds a more vibrant economy... Together, we can create a future where sustainability and prosperity go hand in hand and where Filipino products are recognized not just here but around the world... Let us make this Trade Fair a resounding success. May this be the spark that ignites a new era of sustainable growth and Filipino pride. Together, let's build a 'Bagong Pilipinas,' where every Filipino MSME thrives, our communities flourish, and our nation stands tall on the global stage.'

Aspiring entrepreneurs can join future DTI-BMDPO fairs through their local DTI Office. They mayalso reach out to the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP by sending anemail to Director Marievic Bonoan at BDTP@dti.gov.ph.

The BMDPO is mandated to promote the efficient marketing of local products through variousprograms and strategies. It is committed to supporting the growth and development of MSMEsin the Philippines and helping them reach their full potential.

Lead photos by Grace Libero-Cruz