Outgoing Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual called on his potential successor to sustain the momentum of trade agreements and ensure that micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) get the assistance they need.
“We have built a strong foundation for the future of Philippine trade and industry. The investments we’ve secured, the consumer protections we’ve put in place… this is the legacy we leave behind. But the work is far from over,” Pascual said during his last day in office.
“It is now up to the next generation of leaders to build upon this foundation and take our nation to even greater heights.”
Ongoing activities that need focus include Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations and MSME initiatives like the shared service facilities (SSFs), “Malikhaing Pinoy,” and “Tatak Pinoy,” he said.
He added one of his biggest contributions as DTI chief has been building a pipeline of billions of dollars in investments. Consumer protection initiatives like “Kalasag,” seizures of uncertified products, simplification of SRP lists, and the launch of “E-presyo” are significant achievements.
Business groups Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) expressed optimism that the new Trade secretary will continue the programs and innovations introduced in the department during Pascual’s term.
PCCI president consul Enunina MangioMangio expressed hope that initiatives such as regional industrialization, ease of doing business, skills development, investment attraction, export expansion, and consumer protection will remain DTI priorities.
Both the PCCI and AmCham said they look forward to working with the new DTI chief, and hope for continued progress in supporting MSMEs, attracting investments, and promoting trade.
Senator Grace Poe meanwhile belied reports that she would take over the DTI post
However, Poe said she is open to assuming the post.
“In whatever manner I can help is a privilege,” Poe said, adding that right now, she wants to focus on her job in the Senate.
As chairperson of the Senate Committee under the new Senate leadership, Poe will lead the deliberations on the proposed government budget for next year.
Senate President Francis Escudero said the budget hearing will start on August 13. They projected its ratification and submission to the President before the Congress Christmas break.
Last July 19, Senator Sonny Angara replaced Vice President Sara Duterte as Secretary of the Department of Education. Macon Ramos-Araneta
