PHILIPPINES. Duty Free Philippines Corp (DFPC), in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), today launched Go Lokal!, a retail concept store showcasing quality local products created by Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The launch, held at the DFP Fiestamall, was graced by Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo. She applauded DFPC (an attached agency of the DOT) and the DTI for spearheading the promotion of Filipino culture and industry through the new store.
“As a government agency, we have a responsibility to promote the best from our local entrepreneurs, and the biggest help we can extend to our MSMEs is by showcasing the talent and skill of the Filipino,” Secretary Tulfo-Teo said. “In this manner we continue showing the world that Philippine-made is high quality yet reasonably priced,”.
DFPC Chief Operating Officer Vicente Pelagio ‘Vico’ A. Angala underscored the role of Go Lokal! in making Pinoy (Filipino) products known in the international market as well as in helping local start-up and small businesses.
“This partnership will help us realise our vision of showcasing the Filipino culture to the world and contribute in the government’s effort to revitalise the country’s heart.” Angala added.
The Go Lokal! store showcases products crafted by artisans across the country. The offer includes local snacks, home decors, toys, work-study essentials such as backpacks, journals, desk organisers, wearables and textile-based accessories that include shawls, stylish purses, and shoes.
“To the men and women who have been involved in this project and to our local entrepreneurs who will get to showcase their products, may this day mark the beginning of a very successful venture— one that the DOT will support,” Tulfo-Teo added.
The opening was also attended by DTI Undersecretary for Management Services Group Rowel S. Barba, DTI Undersecretary for Trade and Investments Promotion Group Nora K. Terrado and DFPC Deputy General Manager for Operations Bernardine ‘Dino’ R. Belmonte.