DTI hails contributors to economic growth like trade deal negotiators

Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual signs a free trade agreement with South Korea, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol as witnesses. (File photo from MPC Pool/Rex Remitio)

MANILA, Philippines — The resilience and determination of Filipino workers were highlighted on Wednesday as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) joined the country’s commemoration of Independence Day.

For DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual, the spirit of our forebears’ bravery and sacrifices remains alive in the modern-day heroes.

READ: Filipinos will never bow to oppression, says Marcos on Independence Day

“Ang kanilang diwa ay nananatiling buhay sa katatagan at determinasyon ng ating mga makabagong bayani— ang healthcare workers, frontliners, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at mga Pilipinong manggagawa na tumutulong sa ating bansa tungo sa pagkakaroon ng isang masigla at malagong ekonomiya,” Pascual said.

(Their spirit is alive in the strength and determination of our new heroes – the healthcare workers, frontliners, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the Filipino workers who help our country towards a vigorous and flourishing economy.)

The DTI likewise said it will continue to work for the growth of industries, the creation of quality work, and the protection of consumers.

The trade chief also acknowledged the roles of persons who negotiate in trade agreements with other countries and the Filipino consumers as their purchases invigorate the country’s industries, providing work for people.

“Lubos din ang pasasalamat natin sa mga walang sawang nakikipag-negosasyon at nagtatrabaho upang makamit natin ang trade agreements na nagbibigay sa ating domestic industries ng pagkakataon na mapalawak at mapalago ang kanilang mga serbisyo at produkto,” he pointed out.

(We also thank those who negotiate and work tirelessly so that we can achieve the trade agreements that give our domestic industries the opportunities to enhance their services and products.)

READ: Marcos tells Filipinos to continuously ‘fight for freedom, sovereignty’

“Ang bawat produkto at serbisyo ng inyong binibili ay patuloy na nag-aambag sa pagpapalago ng ating ekonomiya at humuhubog sa kinabukasan ng ating bansa,” he added.

(Each product and service that you purchase contributes to the improvement of our economy and molds the future of our country.)