Pasay City, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reported that its Town, One Product (OTOP) program generated over PHP 1.6 million in sales at Manila FAME 2024. The OTOP pavilion featured the outstanding craftsmanship of 30 Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), showcasing products crafted from sustainable materials and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.

Held at the World Trade Center from October 17 to 19, the “OTOPreneurs” displayed products including fashion, furniture, lighting, home décor, houseware, food, and gifts. Curated food gift packages generated the most sales at the event.

Themed “Reimagination,” this year’s Manila FAME celebrated the convergence of sustainability and aesthetics with innovative products that embody form and function.

On the second day of the event, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. graced the event and underscored the vital role of the creative sector in the Philippine economy, while praising the Filipino’s world-class talent.

“Our design community has achieved world-class status and often surpasses it. With the government’s support, we are bringing Filipino talent to the world market,” said the President.

Reaffirming the government’s support for Filipino artisans and local enterprises, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos also came to the trade show and pointed out the significance of fostering homegrown talent.

DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque echoed this sentiment as she emphasized the Department’s commitment to bolstering Filipino creatives and MSMEs.

“We at the DTI-Bagong Pilipinas are committed to boosting Filipino entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth, positioning the Philippines as a global creative powerhouse,” said the trade chief.

The DTI’s OTOP Philippines program is a government initiative that boosts the local economy by providing comprehensive support to Filipino artisans and entrepreneurs across the country.

This assistance includes product development, capacity building, and enhancing mainstream and international market access. Furthermore, the program fosters private and public collaboration, and offers financing options to help local MSMEs maximize the potential of indigenous materials, local talents, and creativity.

The Department, through the OTOP Philippines program, provided participating OTOPreneurs a valuable exposure to local and international markets at this year’s Manila FAME.

For more information about the DTI’s OTOP Philippines program, send your inquiries to Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP through the OTOP Program Management Office at otop-pmo@dti.gov.ph. You may also visit the OTOP Facebook and Instagram page @otop.philippines. ♦

Date of release: 09 December 2024

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