Filipino entrepreneurs rise and shine beyond the Philippines through innovation and collaboration

By THEPHILBIZNEWS STAFF

Business leaders, innovators and disruptors from across the industry converged to explore bold ideas — from emerging technologies to consumer experience transformation at the 31st National Retail Conference and Expo with a theme of “Retail Game Changers”.

It is undeniable that every bold idea, every small business, and every risk taken by Filipino entrepreneurs fuel the engine of nation-building, driven by an unmatched blend of creativity, ingenuity, and resilience.

Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque praised the unique qualities of Filipino entrepreneurs, reaffirming the government’s strong commitment to providing them with the tools, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.

She further emphasized that the retail sector is central to the administration’s economic agenda, highlighting that the entrepreneurial spirit of Filipinos is not only their greatest strength but also the key to unlocking inclusive growth for the entire nation.

“Filipino entrepreneurs have always found ways to adapt and grow — whether through e-commerce, creative pop-ups, or reinventing traditional models. It is this spirit that drives our economic transformation,” she noted.

In a world where resilience defines success, the Philippines is placing its bets on the creativity and tenacity of its people, proving that when Filipinos dare to dream and start a business, they help build the nation one store at a time.

The Philippine government reaffirmed its strong commitment to transforming the country’s retail landscape by championing innovation, resilience, and inclusive entrepreneurship — all in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a robust and future-ready economy.

“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,” said Secretary Roque in her keynote address.

More than just a commercial driver, the Philippine retail sector is being positioned as a gateway for economic inclusion, especially for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which make up the backbone of the national economy.

To support the MSMEs, the government unveiled the following programs:

Nationwide Expansion of Entrepreneur Support Hubs: Over 1,400 business centers have been established across the country to provide mentorship, access to finance, and simplified business registration, particularly for grassroots entrepreneurs.

Digital Transformation for Ease of Doing Business: The government is continuously improving its online business registration platform, removing traditional bureaucratic barriers for small and first-time entrepreneurs.

Lowering Logistics Costs through New Infrastructure: The soon-to-be-launched Supply Chain and Logistics Center is expected to significantly reduce shipping costs and improve supply chain efficiency, especially for retailers in remote provinces.

Section G Job Blueprint: A national roadmap to generate employment across the retail ecosystem — from small sari-sari stores and online sellers to large-scale logistics and global retail platforms.

Cognizant of how important MSMEs are in the economy and nationbuilding, Trade Secretary Roque stressed that retail is deeply intertwined with Filipino livelihood, culture, and community resilience, and thus central to building a more inclusive national economy.

“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,” she said.

Secretary Roque also reiterated that the retail-focused agenda of DTI aligns closely with President Marcos Jr.’s thrust to modernize Philippine industries through digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and job generation, ensuring no Filipino is left behind on the path to prosperity.