Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cris A. Roque energized regional and provincial leaders to intensify their economic development efforts during the 2nd Regional Operations Group (ROG) Management Committee Meeting of 2026.
Stepping into the spotlight during the interactive “Kumustuhan with Secretary Cris” segment, Secretary Roque engaged directly with the department’s frontline directors. She expressed deep appreciation for their dedication and laid out a clear roadmap for the remainder of the year, emphasizing that regional execution is the linchpin of national economic success.
In her address, Secretary Roque challenged DTI Regional and Provincial Offices to sustain their momentum and pioneer aggressive strategies across four core pillars:
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MSME Development: Empowering local micro, small, and medium enterprises through digital transformation, mentorship, and enhanced access to finance.
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Investment Promotion: Actively marketing provincial competitive advantages to attract high-value domestic and foreign investments.
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Industry Development: Boosting local manufacturing and supply chains to ensure regional economies are resilient and self-sustaining.
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Consumer Protection: Strengthening market surveillance and consumer education to safeguard the rights and purchasing power of Filipinos nationwide.
A major highlight of the Secretary’s address was her call to bridge local enterprises with global markets. Secretary Roque underscored the crucial need to expand the utilization of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), ensuring that even rural enterprises can capitalize on international trade benefits.
Furthermore, she championed the aggressive expansion of the Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) initiative. By prioritizing high-quality, sophisticated, and uniquely Filipino products and services, the DTI aims to elevate the country’s economic complexity and create higher-paying jobs.
“Our mission in the regions is where policy meets the people,” Secretary Roque stated. “By empowering our MSMEs, championing Tatak Pinoy, and opening international pathways through FTAs, we are creating tangible opportunities for Filipino businesses. This is how we drive inclusive growth and fulfill the vision of a prosperous, unified Bagong Pilipinas.”
The ROG Management Committee Meeting serves as DTI’s premier platform for aligning national trade priorities with local implementation strategies, ensuring that economic progress is felt in every province across the archipelago.
