In photo: Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque met with Ms. Alodia Cecilia, a leading Filipino fashion designer and creative director of the Finopinas exhibit at Manila Fashion Festival.

Tokyo, Japan—Supporting the Marcos Jr. administration’s vision of promoting Filipino excellence, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Acting Secretary Cristina A. Roque propelled Filipino enterprises’ global market reach through the launch of the first Tatak Pinoy Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Hub, September 14.

This hub at the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) Tokyo serves as a vibrant showcase of the Philippines’ rich pool of high-quality products, encompassing contemporary fashion, sustainable home decor, and artisanal crafts. These products also attest to Filipino entrepreneurs’ creativity, ingenuity, and exceptional craftsmanship.

During the launching ceremony, Secretary Roque underscored the importance of providing MSMEs with avenues to broaden their horizons and connect with international buyers.

“Complementing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ vision—a dynamic, globally competitive, and inclusive Philippines—the Tatak Pinoy SME Hub helps Filipino MSMEs gain a foothold in the Japanese market,” said the trade chief.

“We fully support our MSMEs every step of the way on their journey towards achieving global competitiveness. This hub is a gateway, opening doors to new opportunities and partnerships for Filipino products in the global marketplace,” she added.

In addition to supporting Filipino enterprises, the SME Hub highlighted the DTI’s efforts to foster collaborations between Filipino and Japanese designers and institutions.

A prominent feature at the hub, the PH MODE x TYO collection showcases contemporary designs that combine Philippine indigenous textiles with premium Japanese fabrics. This initiative, presented by the Manila Fashion Festival, involves fabrics from renowned Japanese textile institutions, and features partnerships with institutions like the Ueda College of Fashion.

In photo: Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque and PTIC Tokyo Commercial Councilor Angara-Mathay join forces with Manila Fashion Festival representatives Alodia Cecilia and Genshi Shigekawa to promote Filipino craftsmanship, showcased by Kalikasan Sorsogon

Another highlight, Kalikasan Sorsogon, exemplifies sustainable craftsmanship by utilizing abundant natural materials like palm leaves, pili nuts, and bamboo to create eco-friendly handicrafts. Born from a collaboration between universities and local producers, Kalikasan Sorsogon leverages the potential of community-driven initiatives to revitalize local economies.

Design Philippines, curated by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions, further adds to the hub’s appeal. It features a collection of sustainable and handmade home decor, fashion, and gifts tailored for the Japanese market. The collaboration with Japanese designer Wataru Sakuma and Filipino designer Stanley Ruiz ensures that these products blend traditional Filipino craftsmanship with modern Japanese aesthetics.

“The DTI aggressively work to create an environment where Filipino craftsmanship and innovation can flourish. By leveraging collaborations with international designers and institutions, we are not only raising the profile of our products but also empowering our MSMEs to tap into the vast potential of the global market,” Secretary Roque affirmed.

The “Finopinas” exhibition showcased the exceptional craftsmanship and artistry of Filipino designers and artists, highlighting the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage and its growing influence in the global creative landscape. ♦

Date of release: 02 October 2024

Related posts:

DTI champions sustainable innovation among Filipino startups at Ecothon 2024 DTI cites strategic measures to lower logistic costs and enhance supply chain efficiency DTI champions PH economic growth and export expansion in meeting with Itochu Corporation DTI Chief backs First Lady’s “Lab for All” in Cebu DTI-EMB, EDC, and PHILEXPORT bring exporter services under the PEDP 2023-2028 to Davao and Cebu DTI strengthens enforcement of Vape Law, reminds traders to comply DTI celebrates PH franchise excellence, pledges support for franchise sector DTI launches first-ever Beauty Fair, champions local beauty industry