Makati City, Philippines—Aimed at catalyzing the successful implementation of the Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Act, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will host the first-ever Tatak Pinoy Act Forum on 15 July 2024.

Themed “Rekindling a National Aspiration Towards Industrial Transformation,” the forum seeks to leverage the landmark act to ignite economic growth and elevate the Philippines’ standing in the global market. The forum will also provide a platform for in-depth discussions on the law’s essential components and their implications for various Philippine industries.

“By bringing together key champions and stakeholders, we are solidifying the foundation of the Tatak Pinoy Act and tapping its far-reaching impact on all Filipinos. Our goal is to ensure that the Tatak Pinoy Act becomes deeply ingrained within the national consciousness, and translate it into significant economic growth and enhanced global competitiveness,” said DTI Secretary Fred Pascual.

DTI Undersecretary Rafaelita Aldaba further underscored the forum’s significance in cultivating a deeper understanding of the law and strategically guiding an inclusive industrial transformation.

“This gathering unites key champions and stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and development partners to share insights and explore strategies for effectively implementing the law’s mandate. We fundamentally hope its aspirations and provisions will not only gain momentum but also resonate with all Filipinos, as we strengthen and intensify our efforts towards industrial transformation,” said Usec. Aldaba.

Undersecretary Aldaba also expressed excitement about the upcoming forum, highlighting its distinct approach compared to previous discussions on enhancing industrial competitiveness. She emphasized that the forum—redefining competitiveness, innovation, and related strategies in a way never explored before—would signify a paradigm shift and establish the cornerstone of the “Tatak Pinoy” initiative, embodying the country’s ingenuity, creativity, and craftsmanship.

The Tatak Pinoy Act Forum will be livestreamed on the DTI’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/DTI.Philippines) and the DTI’s Competitiveness and Innovation Group Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/DTI.CIG).

Signed into law by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. on February 26, the Republic Act No. 11981, or the Tatak Pinoy Act, targets to bolster the Philippines’ industrialization strategy. This law enhances the competitiveness of local industries in the global market and fosters the production of high-quality goods and services.

“With this legislation, we aim to directly address the specific challenges hindering Philippine industries. By implementing targeted reforms, we will not only enhance the quality of our products and services but also measurably increase their competitiveness in the global market. Our ultimate goal is the seamless integration of Philippine industries into the global value chain, driving economic growth and creating sustainable jobs,” said Secretary Pascual. ♦

Date of release: 11 July 2024