President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to take pride in and actively support local food products, emphasizing their role in driving the nation’s economic growth. Speaking at the Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair on Wednesday, Marcos highlighted the importance of celebrating Filipino Food Month this April, an occasion to honor the country’s culinary heritage.
“This April, we are celebrating Filipino Food Month, an important occasion where we honor valued traditions passed down through generations, reflecting our identity as Filipinos through the food that we prepare and enjoy,” Marcos said.
He also noted the growing global admiration for Filipino cuisine, urging Filipinos to take the lead in recognizing their own dishes. “Marami na rin ang mga dayuhan na humahanga sa kakaibang sarap ng ating mga pagkain. Kaya sana, tayo namang mga Pilipino mismo ang manguna sa pagkikilala sa mga putahe at lutong Pinoy,” he added.
The President stressed the importance of supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which are vital to the local economy. “Let us continue to champion our homegrown products, elevate them to new heights, and embrace the brilliance of Filipino craftsmanship and ingenuity,” he said.
The five-day food fair, organized by the Department of Trade and Industry’s Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (DTI-BMDPO), features over 250 food-based MSMEs from across the country. It serves as a platform for promoting sustainability, technological advancements, and digital transformation in food production, packaging, and manufacturing. Participants are also provided with tools for e-commerce, digital marketing, logistics, and cashless payment solutions.
“The National Food Fair is more than a gastronomic celebration of our rich and diverse culinary heritage. It is a testament to the incredible talent, ingenuity, and industry of our local farmers and artisans who bring pride and honor to our country,” Marcos said.
The fair, which runs through the weekend, offers Filipinos the opportunity to explore and support local products, contributing to the growth of homegrown businesses.