DTI unveils programs to boost Philippine retail sector

Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque on Friday, Aug. 1, affirmed the government’s commitment to transforming the Philippine retail sector, emphasizing innovation and resilience as key growth drivers.

Speaking at the 31st National Retail Conference and Expo, the flagship event of the Philippine Retailers Association, Roque said the DTI—under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.—is leading efforts to enhance the global and local competitiveness of Philippine industries.

“Our guiding principle has always been ‘Negosyo para sa bawat Pilipino, trabaho para sa tao,’ ensuring every Filipino has the opportunity to prosper and contribute to the nation’s progress,” Roque said in her keynote address.

She outlined several initiatives to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises, including the establishment of more than 1,400 Negosyo Centers nationwide and the expansion of the Philippine Business Hub’s online registration platform to streamline business processes.

Roque added that the Supply Chain and Logistics Center, set to open this year, aims to lower shipping costs across the archipelago.

To future-proof the retail workforce, she also announced the launch of the Section G Job Blueprint, an action plan to generate employment across the retail value chain—from local sari-sari stores to global logistics hubs.

She emphasized that strengthening the retail industry directly benefits the nation.

“We always believe that when we empower retailers, we empower families; and when we empower families, we empower the nation. This is the very heart of our vision for a truly inclusive and thriving Philippines,” Roque said.

The NRCE drew top retail leaders, SMEs, and cross-industry organizations to explore transformative strategies, emerging technologies, and forward-thinking solutions, under the theme “Retail Game Changers.”