By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
After attending two ceremonies in celebration of the ‘Day of Valor’ on Wednesday, April 9, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. graced the Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair held at Mandaluyong City together with First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos.
Said event is celebrated in recognition of April as “Filipino Food Month”, by virtue of Proclamation No. 469, s. 2018. It honors the country’s valued traditions which is reflected through the food that Filipinos prepare and enjoy.
“This 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, industry of our local farmers and artisans—who bring pride and honor to our country.” President Marcos said.
He also praised the micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) exhibitors, participants, and organizers of the occasion for pouring their heart and soul into showcasing the very best of what Filipino cuisine can offer across different regions in the Pearl of the Orient Seas.
Furthermore, the Chief Executive also recognized the efforts of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for the successful launch of the Bagong Pilipinas Digital Marketplace platform at the same event.
“This is very important because this is using the digital technology to expand markets, to expand supply chains, to make more efficient the delivery of goods and services. And it is something that will immediately take… Kung iisipin ninyo, ’yong maliliit na mga tindahan, ’yong maliliit na restaurant, ’yong maliit na mga negosyo, pagka nagamit na nila itong bagong app natin ay hindi lamang ’yong mga nakatabi nila, hindi lamang ang mga kapitbahay nila ang kanilang kausap at kanilang binebentahan o sine-service-an at gumagawa ng hanapbuhay, kung hindi lahat na nang ma-contact sa bagong app na ito. Kaya’t napakahalaga itong ginawa natin ngayong araw na ito,” President Marcos declared, emphasizing the app’s role in empowering MSMEs and providing them with a platform to sell their products and services that are ‘Proudly Filipino’.
Such government initiatives are synonymous with the Marcos Jr. administration’s vision of the country as a prime investment destination, further boosting the local economy while preserving the nation’s rich culinary heritage that is beloved by Filipinos and foreigners alike.
The Chief Executive concluded his speech at the National Food Fair by calling on Filipinos to patronize homegrown products and embrace the brilliance of Filipino craftsmanship and ingenuity.
The event was also attended by DTI Secretary Maria Cristina Roque, DOT Secretary Christina Frasco, and other distinguished guests.
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