SENATE President Sherwin Gatchalian on Monday called for stronger public-private collaboration to develop export-quality Philippine products and create more employment opportunities.
During the Philippine Products Week, Gatchalian said the government and private sector should scale up the development of globally competitive local products as the country faces headwinds from slower economic growth and financial volatility.
He emphasized the importance of fully implementing Republic Act 11960, or the One Town, One Product (OTOP) Philippines Act, which he co-authored.
The law seeks to provide micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) with meaningful support in developing, improving and scaling up locally made products.
Gatchalian said empowering MSMEs to produce world-class goods is essential to strengthening the Philippine economy and creating sustainable employment opportunities.
He also said transforming community-based enterprises into export-ready businesses can give MSMEs greater access to international markets and, at the same time, create livelihood opportunities in local communities.
Gatchalian said a stronger domestic production base can also help the country boost its export earnings and build greater resilience against external economic shocks.
He called for sustained cooperation among government agencies, businesses, local governments, and other stakeholders to ensure that Filipino enterprises receive the financing, technology, skills development, market access, and other support needed to compete globally.
With the comprehensive implementation of the OTOP Philippines Act, Gatchalian said local entrepreneurs can be better positioned to turn homegrown products into globally competitive brands — creating jobs while strengthening the country’s economic foundations.
“Ramping up the development of homegrown products for the global stage is a necessary economic shield. When we transform a local, community-based product into a globally competitive export, we are not just selling goods, we are generating long-term jobs for our people,” he said.
