DTI Chief Backs Filipina Entrepreneurs at Summit

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque emphasized the agency’s vow to empower women in the business sector during the Go Negosyo’s Inspiring Filipina Entrepreneurs 2025 awarding ceremony on March 15.

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.

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.