DTI Undersecretary Mary Jean Pacheco (third from right) hands over the IPOPhl-registered OTOP Nook logo to Philippine Ambassador to the Netherlands J. Eduardo Malaya (middle) while Cagayan de Oro Representative Rufus Rodriguez (third from left) and Leyte Representaive Anna Veloso-Tuazon (fourth from right) present the products to be displayed. From left, Trade Specialist Christine Barawid, Commercial Counsellor Magnolia Misolas-Ashley, Trade Service Officer Anne Marie Kristine Umali, and Committee Secretary Valentino Palanca look on.

THE HAGUE, NETHERLANDS — Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Regional Operations Group Undersecretary Mary Jean Pacheco and Philippine Ambassador to the Netherlands J. Eduardo Malaya unveiled on May 08 the very first internationally located One Town, One Product (OTOP) Nook at the Philippine Embassy in The Hague.

“Taking the innovative products of our micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to the global stage not only promotes the rich heritage and culture of our regions but also opens doors to greater market access,” DTI Secretary Fred Pascual said as he emphasized the economic opportunities that this OTOP Nook creates for local businesses.

“This initiative has the potential to create a positive ripple effect throughout the Philippine economy, empowering local communities, generating jobs, and boosting overall export revenue for the MSME sector,” he added.

DTI Undersecretary Mary Jean Pacheco hands over the IPOPhl-registered OTOP Nook logo to Philippine Ambassador to the Netherlands J. Eduardo Malaya for the very first international OTOP Nook launched at the Philippine Embassy in The Hague, Netherlands.

In collaboration with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center–Brussels, the newly launched OTOP Nook features innovative products of micro, small, and medium enterprises from the Bicol region, including native abaca bags, pili nuts, and pili cosmetics; providing a glimpse into the diverse offerings of the region.

It also features products from other key provinces across the country, like inable fabric, pearl accessories, and cacao products. This collaborative initiative aims to highlight and promote the rich heritage and culture of the Philippines to the guests and visitors of the Philippine Embassy.

Cagayan de Oro Representative Rufus Rodriguez, one of the principal authors of the recently enacted OTOP law, joined the unveiling of the OTOP Nook, which is a monumental step towards empowering local entrepreneurs. As a Mindanao representative, he acknowledged the collaborative effort to elevate Philippine products, emphasizing their significance for both international trade and our nation’s internal market.

Meanwhile, Leyte Representative Anna Veloso-Tuazon proudly showcased a beautfiul native bag from her hometown, further highlighting the high-quality craftsmanship embedded within the Filipino culture.

OTOP Nook is an initiative of the DTI that was initially led by DTI-Region 5 Regional Director Dindo G. Nabol as a COVID-response project back in 2022. Looking ahead, the DTI plans to establish additional OTOP Nooks in other Philippine embassies and trade offices in the coming months, further expanding the reach of Philippine products and showcasing the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of the country. ♦

Date of release: 13 May 2024

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