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DTI, PH Embassy welcomes Asurion expansion, 500 jobs for Cebu

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Three men in formal attire standing on a marble staircase with Philippine and ASEAN flags behind them; from left to right: PTIC-Washington D.C. Commercial Counselor Kenneth Yap, Asurion Senior Assistant General Counsel Grant Mullins, and Minister and Consul Hans Siriban.
From L to R: PTIC-Washington D.C. Commercial Counselor Kenneth Yap, Asurion Senior Assistant General Counsel Grant Mullins, and Minister and Consul Hans Siriban.

Washington D.C—On June 05, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recognized US-based tech care giant Asurion’s latest expansion plans, which include opening a new contact center in Cebu City. This is set to create at least 500 new jobs for Filipinos within the year.

The company, through Asurion’s General Counsel Grant Mullins, shared this development with DTI’s Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Washington D.C. (PTIC-WDC) Commercial Counselor Kenneth Yap and Philippine Embassy in Washington Minister and Consul Hans Siriban.

The planned facility will support the company’s growing US market, which currently provides smart device insurance, technical support, and repair services to over 100 million customers across one in three US households.

Asurion’s expansion builds on its 16-year presence in the Philippines, where it operates across Manila, Clark, Laguna, and Iloilo. These sites facilitate key functions such as software development, mobile phone remanufacturing, call center, and technical support—employing skilled Filipino professionals.

“There is a welcoming environment for investors, especially with the support of the Marcos administration,” Mr. Mullins noted, adding that Asurion successfully completed staffing for its call center expansion at the Clark Freeport Zone in 2024.

Further emphasizing the country’s strategic role, PTIC-WDC Commercial Counselor Yap highlighted that the Philippines is Asurion’s sole site outside the United States for cell phone remanufacturing. This facility employs around 1,400 skilled technicians who focused on repairing iPhones.

Since launching its operations in 2009, Asurion Philippines has restored and shipped more than 10 million iPhones the US market. With the addition of the Cebu site, the company’s total workforce is expected to reach approximately 8,000 employees.

Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Nashville, Asurion is the world’s largest tech care company, providing protection and repair services for a wide range of smart devices. It serves over 300 million customers worldwide through partnerships with global brands like Amazon, Samsung, and Verizon.

Through sustained engagement with global industry leaders, the DTI continues to position the Philippines as a premier destination for technology-driven investments, high-value job creation, and long-term economic partnerships. ♦

Date of Release: 11 June 2025

DTI leads push to position PH creative industries globally with Spain’s IE University linkage

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A group of representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, and IE University stand together in the DTI lobby. They are dressed in business attire, facing the camera, with the DTI logo displayed on the wall behind them.
Photo courtesy of: IE University

From L to R: Ms. Katrina T. Salvador (OIC-Division Chief, DTI-CIDO), Mr. Robin Serrano (Director, Benilde Center for Partnership Advancement), Prof. Benhur Ong (Chancellor, DLS-CSB), Ms. Ángeles Figueroa (Executive Director for Partnerships at the IE School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs), Dr. Manuel Muñiz (Provost of IE University Madrid and Chair of IE New York College), Ms. Nylah Rizza D. Bautista (Assistant Secretary and Supervising Head of DTI-CIG), Arch. Gerry Torres (Director, Benilde Fashion Museum), Mr. Alberto Ibañez Pascual (Regional Director for APAC, IE University), Mr. Jo-Dann N. Darong (Assistant Director, DTI-CIDO), Mr. Manu Fernandez (Project Officer, DTI-CIDO), Mr. Aaron Aldrich Alonzo (Planning Assistant, DTI-FTSC), Ms. Rain Anne Mojica (Regional Coordinator, DTI-FTSC)

Makati City, Philippines—Driven to accelerate the growth of the Philippine creative industries, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) convened IE University and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) on March 12 to initiate discussions on potential international collaborations.

“This engagement reinforces the government’s push to strengthen the Philippine Creative Industry through international collaborations and digital transformation. Aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision for a ‘Bagong Pilipinas,’ we are advancing a whole-of-government approach to expand opportunities for our creative sector, enhance local talent, and position the country as a globally competitive leader in innovation and design,” said DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque.

The DTI’s Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Madrid (PTIC-Madrid), under the leadership of Commercial Counselor Althea Antonio, organized this initiative through the DTI-Foreign Trade Service Corps (DTI-FTSC). The Philippine Embassy in Madrid also played a pivotal role in connecting IE University and key Philippine stakeholders. Further support was provided by the DTI Competitiveness and Innovation Group (DTI-CIG).

During the meeting, IE University, Benilde, and the DTI discussed ways to enhance the Philippines’ creative and academic sectors through international partnerships in education, sustainable fashion, and startup support. These discussions focused on driving innovation, cultivating talent, and bolstering the global competitiveness of Filipino students and entrepreneurs.

Key topics included co-funding and scholarship opportunities for Filipino students and creatives, internationalization of Philippine higher education institutions, research collaborations, and industry-academia partnerships.

Recognizing the IE University’s expertise in architecture and design, the DTI sees strong potential for collaboration in building creative hubs across the Philippines.

Moreover, IE University expressed interest in working with the DTI’s Creative Industries Development Office (CIDO) on initiatives focused on media, entertainment, digital creative services, and creative tourism.

DTI-CIG Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista (right) sits at a conference table speaking with three representatives from IE University. They are in a meeting room with water glasses, nameplates, and a whiteboard in the background.
DTI-CIG Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista during the discussion.

“Strengthening our linkages with globally renowned institutions like IE University is crucial in positioning the Philippines as a leader in the creative economy. This partnership opens up opportunities for our talents to gain world-class education and exposure,” DTI-CIG Assistant Secretary and Supervising Head Nylah Bautista highlighted.

Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Spain, IE University is among the top 10 universities worldwide, according to the QS ranking 2025. With a network of over 28 international offices, it is globally recognized for its innovative programs in marketing, business, and communication.

This engagement builds on the momentum generated during the September 2024 Philippine Creative Industries Month, during which the DTI and the Department of Foreign Affairs jointly hosted a webinar series showcasing Philippine creative industries to a global audience.

A group of representatives from DTI, IE University, and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde sits around a conference table discussing creative industry collaborations. Nameplates and water glasses are on the table, and a glass partition and whiteboard are visible in the background.

DTI-CIG Assistant Secretary Bautista convened a meeting with DTI-CIDO Assistant Director Jo-Dann Darong and DTI-FTSC Foreign Trade Service Officer Jeremiah Reyes. The meeting was also attended by representatives from DLS-CSB, including Professor Benhur Ong, Architect Gerry Torres, and Director Robin Serrano. Attendees also included the IE University delegation, comprising Chair Dr. Manuel Muñiz, Executive Director Ángeles Figueroa, and Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific.

The DTI’s PTIC-Madrid and FTSC remain committed to facilitating these engagements as part of its mission to enhance strategic partnerships between the Philippines and Spain through the creative industries. ♦

Date of Release: 20 March 2025

DTI, DA trade mission secures USD 27.28 million in sales, boosts Middle East economic ties

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Manila City, Philippines—The Philippines’ business mission to the Middle East generated USD 27.28 million in export sales from February 7 to 21. This achievement marks the first major initiative following the newly signed memorandum of agreement on Agriculture and Fisheries Export Development and Promotion between the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA).

The mission aimed to enhance market opportunities and strengthen trade partnerships for Philippine agricultural, fisheries, and personal care exports in key markets like Doha, Amman, Riyadh, and Dubai.

To accomplish this, Filipino exporters engaged with buyers, distributors, and industry leaders through a series of activities, including store visits, supplier meetings, and business-matching sessions.

The delegation also participated in Gulfood 2025, which provided a platform to discuss market entry and compliance matters with the Qatar Ministry of Public Health and the Dubai Municipality.

On top of this, the Jordan Food and Drug Administration and the Jordan Ministry of Agriculture further expressed a strong interest in sourcing additional Philippine marine products and tropical fruits, opening avenues for growth in non-traditional export markets.

“The success we have seen in the business mission reflects the growing global recognition of the quality and competitiveness of Philippine agri-fishery and consumer products. As we continue to forge stronger connections with key markets in this region, we are laying the groundwork for sustained growth and long-term success for our exporters that ensure our local export goods remain in high demand worldwide,” said DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque.

“The business-to-business (B2B) meetings provided us with valuable insights into our operations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).  We realized that our current business structure for marketing our products is no longer adaptable to the area’s current setup. We have also identified other markets to explore, which has helped us recognize avenues for growth,” shared HDR Foods Corp’s Aris Unson.

“Through the B2B, we were able to discuss our concerns with our distributor, including the marketing strategies we wanted to implement. HDR Foods is hopeful that, after the B2B activities, our products will have a greater presence across the UAE,” Unson added.

The Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. supported the mission organized by the Philippine Trade and Investment Centers in Riyadh and Dubai in coordination with the region’s Philippine Embassies under the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Participating companies included Axelum Resources Corp., C and H Cosmetics Industry Daila Wholesale LLC., Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc., Dry Tech Manufacturing Corp., Ferino’s Bibingka, Fisherfarms, Inc., Global Foodsolutions, Inc., Golden Arrow Food Enterprises, Gwen’s Bakeshop, HDR Foods Corporation, International Pharmaceuticals, Inc., KKK Food Corporation, Kwality Philfood Inc., La Carlota Food Enterprise, Market Reach International Resources, McCormick Philippines, Mensch FilAm Corporation, Pixcel Transglobal Foods Inc., RPO Fine Foods Corporation, Sabroso Chocolate Manufacturing, SL Agritech Corporation, Sterling Pacific Ventures Corp., Sumifru Philippines Corporation, and The Cabalen Group.

For inquiries regarding Philippine exports, send an email to the DTI-Export Marketing Bureau at [email protected] or visit tradelinephilippines.dti.gov.ph. ♦

Date of Release: 21 March 2025

PH gov’t empowers businesses with new data protocol, solidifying competitive edge—DTI Chief

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Four government officials seated at a table hold up signed documents during the Swift Corporate and Other Records Exchange (SCORE) Protocol Memorandum of Agreement signing ceremony. From left to right: Director Oliver V. Chato, Commissioner Emilio B. Aquino, Secretary Cristina A. Roque, and Assistant Secretary Michel Kristian R. Ablan. A backdrop behind them displays the event details.
In photo: Director Oliver V. Chato, Commissioner Emilio B. Aquino, Secretary Cristina A. Roque, Assistant Secretary Michel Kristian R. Ablan

Makati City, Philippines—The government is empowering businesses to operate with greater confidence and ease, reinforcing the Philippines as a competitive and business-friendly hub, according to Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque.

Together with the Security Exchange Commission (SEC), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) formalized the Swift Corporate and Other Records Exchange (SCORE) Protocol during the SEC Tribute to Outstanding Achievements on March 19.

This landmark agreement establishes a secure and efficient framework for exchanging corporate records and regulatory data between the DTI and SEC. By streamlining information sharing, the SCORE Protocol aims to enhance government efficiency and ensure the accuracy of data used for decision-making and policy formulation.

“The SCORE Protocol is a critical step in the DTI’s aggressive push for digitalization. By ensuring faster transactions, streamlined access to corporate records, and reduced bureaucratic red tape, we are strengthening market integrity, enhancing efficiency, and making it easier for businesses to invest and grow,” Secretary Roque underscored.

The partnership leverages technology, such as the Application Program Interface, to facilitate the seamless exchange of specific documents and data between the DTI and SEC. This technological integration will provide real-time information for government decision-making and policy formulation, significantly improving the responsiveness of regulatory processes.

Furthermore, the SCORE Protocol emphasizes adherence to data privacy and security regulations. The DTI and SEC are committed to coordinating on any amendments or improvements in the processing of personal information and sensitive personal information. This safeguards the integrity of business data while streamlining compliance requirements for enterprises.

In addition to the SCORE Protocol signing, Secretary Roque commended the SEC for achieving the Philippine Quality Award Level 3 for Mastery in Quality Management, recognizing it as the first national government agency to attain this status. She highlighted the collective mission of both agencies toward building a globally competitive, sustainable, and inclusive business landscape.

“The SEC’s achievement sets a new benchmark for excellence in governance and regulatory efficiency. As DTI aggressively pushes for digitalization and ease of doing business, we stand alongside the SEC in ensuring that the Philippines remains a top destination for investments, innovation, and inclusive growth,” Secretary Roque underlined.

The SCORE Protocol directly supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision for an advanced and efficient business landscape. Ultimately, the DTI’s efforts in redefining corporate regulatory processes through the SCORE Protocol solidify the Philippines’ status as a top-tier destination for global investment and trade. ♦

Date of Release: 20 March 2025

DTI Chief highlights women-led initiatives at Go Negosyo Women Summit 2025

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DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque stands at a podium labeled ‘Ayala Malls Manila Bay’ and speaks during the Go Negosyo’s Inspiring Filipina Entrepreneurs 2025 awarding ceremony, with a large screen behind her displaying the event’s ‘Negosyo Women Summit 2025’ logo.
DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque during her speech at the Go Negosyo’s Inspiring Filipina Entrepreneurs 2025 awarding ceremony

Parañaque City, Philippines—First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos spearheaded Go Negosyo’s Inspiring Filipina Entrepreneurs 2025 awarding ceremony on March 15. At the event, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque emphasized the agency’s vow to empower women in the business sector.

Under the theme “Women Breaking Boundaries,” the summit celebrated the pivotal role of Filipina entrepreneurs, professionals, and innovators in economic growth and societal transformation.

“Today, when women rise, societies flourish and nations transform. As a former businesswoman turned public servant, I have seen firsthand the power of women, whether in boardrooms, bustling marketplaces, and the very heart of communities. And with this, the reality is clear. Empowered women bring real progress,” said Secretary Roque.

“We at the DTI are committed to ensuring that every Filipina entrepreneur, professional, and innovator has not just a seat at the table, but a commanding voice. Our programs are anchored in the powerful vision, ‘Babae sa lahat ng sektor, aangat ang bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,’” she added.

Four individuals stand on stage during the Go Negosyo Inspiring Filipina Entrepreneurs 2025 Awards. A woman in the center holds a trophy, while behind them, a large screen displays images of a business named "Bread Station." The group includes First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque, Go Negosyo Founder Joey Concepcion, and an award-winning Filipina entrepreneur.
 In photo: First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque, Go Negosyo Founder Mr. Jose Ma. “Joey” A. Conception, and one of the Filipina entrepreneurs who received an award.

The trade chief then highlighted the DTI’s key women-focused programs that have been instrumental in advancing economic opportunities for the Filipinas. Notably, she cited SheTradesPH, a mentorship and market-access platform designed to help women-led enterprises scale up and compete globally.

Furthermore, Secretary Roque pointed to the significant success of the DTI’s Negosyo Centers, which have supported 1.5 million entrepreneurs nationwide, with women comprising 62 percent of beneficiaries.

To illustrate the impact of these initiatives, Secretary Roque shared the inspiring journey of Gweneline Larua, a mother from MIMAROPA, who transformed her small peanut butter and turmeric drink business into a thriving wellness brand.

Secretary Roque concluded by calling for sustained collaboration among all stakeholders to build a more inclusive and supportive business environment for women. She reaffirmed the DTI’s strong partnership with Go Negosyo, led by Mr. Joey Concepcion, in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation through strategic events and programs that address the needs of women-focused enterprises. ♦

Date of Release: 20 March 2025

DTI’s E-Kalasag operation yields PHP 1.4M in non-compliant products, strengthens enforcement capabilities in Cebu

Archived News
Steel rebar stacks in warehouse; inspector adjusts hardhat. DTI's E-KALASAG operation finds non-compliant products.

Cebu City, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through its Task Force Kalasag, successfully conducted a targeted monitoring and enforcement operation across various establishments. This intensified operation resulted in the seizure of 20,815 units of non-compliant steel products and other items, with a total retail value of PHP 1,440,758.50.

TF Kalasag’s operations, which were held on March 3, 6, and 07, saw the confiscations of various items that included substandard lighters, liquefied petroleum gas-related products, electrical lighting and wiring devices, household appliances, construction materials, and automotive-related materials.

These seized products lacked the required Philippine Standard marks, Import Commodity Clearance stickers, and other manufacturer’s information, violating regulations under Republic Act (RA) No. 7394, as amended by RA 10623 (Consumer Act of the Philippines), RA 4109 (Products Standards Law), and Department Administrative Order No. 02:2007 (Defining the Responsibilities and Liabilities of the Manufacturers, Importers, Traders).

“As part of the DTI’s mandate to uphold the highest standard of service nationwide, we are fully dedicated to protecting consumers by ensuring that only certified, quality products reach the market. At the same time, we ensure that our monitoring and enforcement teams have the expertise and knowledge necessary to deliver first-rate service,” emphasized DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque.

In conjunction with the operations, the DTI organized a two-day “Enforcers’ Retooling Session on Technical Regulations on Steel Products.” The first day featured a knowledge-sharing session for enforcers from various DTI offices, with participants attending both physically and virtually. Meanwhile, the second day included a comprehensive plant visit was held on the second day.

Engineers Andrea Mikhaela Lazarte and Matt Morris Veleña from the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) provided updates on the technical regulations for steel products.

Key industry figures, including Mr. Walther Lobitania, Mr. Victor Altavas, and Mr. Jojo Gatola from DN Steel, Mr. Mark De Guzman from GalvaPhil, Inc., Mr. Nelson Gutierrez from the Steel Angles, Shapes, and Sections Manufacturers Association of the Philippines, and Mr. Joel Ronquillo, Vice President for Technical Affairs of the Philippine Iron and Steel Institute, also provided briefings on the Philippine National Standards on steel products.

DTI-Fair Trade Group Supervising Head and Assistant Secretary Atty. Agaton Teodoro Uvero underscored the importance of sharing critical information regarding the steel industry’s technical regulations.

“As primary regulators and stakeholders of the steel sector, the safety of consumers and the integrity of the market depend on our knowledge, skills, and diligence. Thus, our activity today rightly focuses on capacitating enforcers and monitors to effectively carry out their responsibilities,” said ASec. Uvero said.

Moreover, DTI-Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (DTI-FTEB) Director Atty. Regino Mallari Jr. participated in the Retooling Session. “The DTI prioritizes fostering a safer and more reliable environment for both businesses and consumers. I hope that it is never lost on anyone the importance of ensuring that construction and engineering materials are safe and certified,” Director Mallari highlighted.

In April 2024, the DTI-FTEB launched “E-Kalasag” (Expanded/Electronic Kalasag), formerly Task Force Kalasag, to bolster consumer protection and ensure fair trade compliance across digital and physical markets.

In the first two months of 2025, E-Kalasag has registered a compliance rate of 88.34% for the 489 retail firms monitored. This led to the issuance of 57 notices of violation and the seizure of over PHP 8.3 million worth of non-compliant products, totaling 60,020 confiscated units.

Consumers are urged to report complaints or violations related to retailers selling violative products through the DTI Consumer Care Hotline (1-384) or send an email at [email protected] or [email protected]. ♦

Date of release: 18 March 2025

Tatak Pinoy, Tatak ng Bagong Pilipinas

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Makati City, Philippines—Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque celebrated the first anniversary of the Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Act, highlighting its significant role in transforming Philippine industries and empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This legislation aims to enhance their productivity, competitiveness, and global recognition.

Enacted on February 26, 2024, under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s leadership, this landmark legislation sets the stage for industry transformation, fostering innovation, expanding market access, and creating better opportunities for Filipinos.

“Through Tatak Pinoy, we are cultivating more dynamic and strategic industries and MSMEs to spur economic development, anchored on a shared vision of a robust and more inclusive ‘Bagong Pilipinas,’ ensuring that the Filipino brand of excellence prevails and thrives on the global stage,” said Secretary Roque.

Recognizing MSMEs as the backbone of the Philippine economy, the DTI has prioritized them in its key initiatives. According to the 2023 List of Establishments from the Philippine Statistics Authority, the country has 1,246,373 operating business enterprises, with MSMEs comprising 99.63% (1,241,733). Micro enterprises account for 90.43% (1,127,058), followed by small enterprises at 8.82% (109,912) and medium enterprises at 0.38% (4,763).

The DTI also reaffirms the crucial role of innovation in enabling MSMEs to meet the demands of a highly competitive and rapidly changing business landscape.

“The challenge lies in leveraging innovation to successfully upgrade domestic capabilities, developing our own and adapting available complementary technologies, and striving towards production and operational efficiency for our MSMEs,” the trade secretary underscored.

A year since its passage, the DTI, in collaboration with government, academic and private sector stakeholders, has made notable strides in implementing Tatak Pinoy through six focus areas: Policy Development, Technology and Innovation, Human Resource Development, Investments, Market access, and Marketing and Promotions.

Laying the Foundations for Industrial and Economic Transformation: The Tatak Pinoy Strategy

In 2024, the DTI, along with its partner organizations, initiated and led nationwide consultations across various sectors and regions to form the Multi-year Tatak Pinoy Strategy (TPS)—the country’s first industrial policy institutionalized through the law. The TPS will outline priorities and action plans to support domestic enterprises in producing diverse, high-value, and globally competitive products and services. It will identify priority industries that have the potential to create positive ripple effects across other sectors, stimulating economic activity and acting as a catalyst for broader economic growth.

Additionally, Tatak Pinoy is leveraging the government’s market position as a massive buyer by developing a list of priority products and services to receive domestic preference in government procurement. The list includes various items from common-use supplies to those developed and promoted under government programs (e.g., Domestic Bidders Certification, Shared Service Facilities, One Town, One Product, and Science 4 Change), construction materials, government uniforms made with tropical fabrics, and defense materials and articles.

Catalyzing the Philippine Industrial Ambition: Focus on Manufacturing, Empowering MSMEs

Since the law’s inception, the DTI launched bold initiatives to drive industrial goals. These include exploring the feasibility of a wafer fabrication facility and an integrated circuit design lab to strengthen the semiconductor sector. Wafer fabrication facilities transform wafers into integrated circuits used in components like radio frequency amplifiers, LEDs, and microprocessors.

To support MSMEs in adapting to the fast-changing technological landscape, the Smart Industry Readiness Index (SIRI) Training and Certification Program was launched to help build local expertise in preparing businesses for Industry 4.0 technologies.

The Tatak Pinoy Market Access initiative also supported 38 projects, mobilizing PHP 51.82 million in funding. Based on reports, these projects benefitted 232 MSMEs, generating actual and booked sales of PHP 6.08 billion, with projected revenues of PHP 4.85 billion and investments of PHP 5.24 billion. Through international trade fairs, trade and investment missions, and business-to-business matching, the “Proudly Filipino” brand is being strengthened in the global market, expanding opportunities for Philippine products and services to compete and succeed on the world stage.

Looking Ahead in 2025 and Beyond

The road towards industrial transformation requires collective action from all stakeholders—government, academe, industry, and development partners. By combining our efforts, we can unlock the untapped potential of our industries, create opportunities that uplift our people, and position the Philippines as a leader in innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness.

“As we move forward, let us make ’Tatak Pinoy’ our national identity—our symbol of excellence, pride, and creativity. Every Filipino product and service should bear the mark of meeting global standards and reflecting our rich heritage and innovation,” Secretary Roque emphasized.

“With the implementation of the ‘Tatak Pinoy’ Act, we call on all stakeholders to champion this vision. Together, we will strengthen the ‘Tatak Pinoy’ brand, cultivating a thriving ecosystem where our industries and enterprises not just survive but lead. The time is now to redefine what it means to be ‘Proudly Filipino’—bold, competitive, and unstoppable in the global arena,” the trade chief urged. ♦

Date of release: 17 March 2025

DTI and ULSE host joint roundtable to discuss safety codes and standards

Archived News
Group photo of BPS-ULSE Roundtable participants giving thumbs up.
In photo: BPS-ULSE Joint Roundtable participants with Speakers

Makati City, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and UL Standards and Engagement (ULSE) convened a successful joint roundtable session on safety codes and standards. The event aimed to enhance the Philippine quality infrastructure system by exchanging best practices and technical expertise.

“By engaging local and global experts together to discuss safety codes and standards, this joint roundtable reinforces the foundation of the country’s national safety framework. This collaboration ensures that safety serves as a driving force behind the nation’s sustained innovation and development,” said DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque.

The roundtable facilitated in-depth knowledge-sharing on emerging regulatory advancements, and cooperation in standardization. It also offered a strategic platform to strengthen regulatory frameworks, foster cooperation, and address critical safety challenges.

During the discussions, DTI-Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS) Standards Mainstreaming Division Assistant Division Chief Catherine Antonio and ULSE Regional Representative Kolin Low emphasized key initiatives in safety code development and implementation, as well as the collaboration between the two agencies.

Furthermore, Mr. Low and Ma. Theresa Espejo, Program Manager of Codes and Regulatory Services at UL Solutions Canada Inc., shared their expertise on safety codes, battery safety, fire protection, and electrical standards. Their insights played a crucial role in aligning Philippine standards with global best practices.

Local experts, including Bureau of Fire Protection Regional Chief FSupt. Gerard Venezuela and Engr. Rey Santiago of IIEE, further explored national safety standards and fire protection, with a particular focus on the Fire Code of the Philippines (Republic Act 9514) and the Philippine Electrical Code.

Panel discussion with four speakers on stage. Philippine flag visible.
ULSE Regional Representative Kolin Low, Program Manager of Codes and Regulatory Services at UL Solutions Canada Inc. Ma. Theresa Espejo, Bureau of Fire Protection Regional Chief FSupt. Gerard Venezuela and the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. Engr. Rey Santiago during the open discussion session

The roundtable culminated in a dynamic open discussion, where participants raised questions about testing fire safety systems, fire inspection processes in Canada and Singapore, electric vehicle charging, and other related topics.

Since 2020, the DTI-BPS has partnered with ULSE through a series of joint activities and meetings to advance Philippine National Standards. This session is a significant part of their broader collaboration program for 2025.

For more information on standards, technical regulations, and conformity assessment procedures, visit the DTI-BPS website at www.bps.dti.gov.ph or email inquiries to [email protected]. ♦

Date of release: 18 March 2025

DTI gears up for 2025 with USD76B investment pipeline

Archived News
DTI Secretary Roque with FTSC & representatives at Philippine MSME Networking Night meeting.
In photo: Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque together with Foreign Trade Service Corps (FTSC) Commercial Counsellors and Representatives during the Philippine MSME Networking Night at Conrad Hotel Manila as part of the 2025 Planning Conference

Manila, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is driving a robust investment pipeline to strengthen the Philippines’ position as a top destination for global investors in 2025.

Spearheading this effort is the DTI’s Foreign Trade Service Corps (DTI-FTSC), which has actively engaged with investors on 247 investment leads and projects valued at over USD 76 billion (PhP4 trillion), as of January 2025. This initiative is a core component of the DTI’s global investment and trade promotion strategy.

Notably, 51 projects are in advanced stages already: 28 companies have either registered with Securities and Exchange Commission or are working closely with investment promotion agencies to finalize their entry into the Philippines, while 23 have commenced commercial operations. These investments span key industries, including manufacturing, information technology and business process management, renewable energy, data centers, retail, agriculture, and telecommunications.

This effort aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s economic agenda, which prioritizes attracting high-value foreign investments and strengthening the country’s position in global trade. Driving economic growth, the DTI-FTSC plays a key role in converting investment leads from high-level trade and economic missions and engagements into job-creating projects. Furthermore, the agency facilitates business entry and transforms commitments into concrete economic benefits.

Beyond investment facilitation, the DTI-FTSC continues to expand global trade opportunities for Philippine businesses. In 2024, its network of Philippine Trade and Investment Centers (PTICs) assisted over 1,900 exporters, helping local companies and micro, small, and medium enterprises to access new markets and secure international buyers. The DTI-FTSC also engaged 2,600 potential foreign investors, providing market intelligence, business-matching services, and direct facilitation support to drive high-value investments into the country.

Furthermore, the DTI-FTSC also holds a pivotal position in advancing the Philippines’ trade policy interests on the global stage. The agency has been actively engaged in bilateral, regional, and multilateral trade negotiations to shape trade rules on key issues such as e-commerce, investment facilitation, and supply chain resilience. By participating in regional integration efforts, the DTI-FTSC strengthens and secures industry supply chains while exploring new economic cooperation opportunities worldwide.

Expanding its global reach, the DTI-FTSC has opened new offices in Toronto, Madrid, and Riyadh, bringing the total to 29 PTICs across 21 countries.

As the first quarter of 2025 concludes, the DTI-FTSC remains focused on generating high-value investment leads, expanding market access for Philippine exporters, and strengthening trade partnerships. In the coming months, DTI-FTSC will continue working to attract global businesses, forge strategic partnerships, and leverage emerging opportunities to reinforce the Philippines’ foothold in the global economy.

DTI Secretary Roque speaks during the 2025 Planning Conference.
DTI Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque addresses the Foreign Trade Service Corps during the first day of 2025 Planning Conference at BDO Towers in Makati last December 2024.


“The success of ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ is a shared mission. This is our commitment to the world—we are open for business, ready to welcome high-value investments, and drive innovation. Together, we are creating opportunities that uplift our people and propel the Philippine economy toward sustained growth,” Secretary Cristina A. Roque underscored at the DTI-FTSC 2025 Planning Conference. ♦

Date of release: 14 March 2025