DTI-BOI, LRA sign IRR for 99-year Investors’ Lease Act to Boost foreign investments

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Land Registration Authority (LRA) have officially moved to modernize the country’s investment landscape with the signing of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for Republic Act No. 12252, also known as the Investors’ Lease Act.  

The document, signed by DTI Secretary and Board of Investments (BOI) Chairman Cristina A. Roque and LRA Administrator Gerardo Panga Sirios, was presented at a ceremony in New Clark City, hosted by the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA), on December 19.

This IRR is a critical regulatory milestone that operationalizes the extension of lease periods for private lands by foreign investors from 75 years to an aggregate of 99 years. Arriving three decades after the original law’s enactment, this extension represents a momentous milestone for the country’s economic landscape. By offering longer leasehold terms, the government aims to attract a steady flow of long-term capital, advanced technology, and global expertise.

DTI Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Dr. Ceferino S. Rodolfo, representing Secretary Roque, emphasized that the IRR is a significant step in unlocking these investment opportunities responsibly, while BCDA President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang noted that the measure is instrumental in providing the stability and certainty required to remain competitive with the rest of the region.

Beyond extending lease durations, the IRR introduces vital administrative safeguards designed to protect both landowners and lessees. A key feature is the requirement to annotate lease contracts on the land title, making the lease binding to the public and providing an essential layer of legal protection. 

Additionally, the IRR simplifies the investor journey by providing a clear, step-by-step process for compliance and establishing specific timelines for government agencies to act on applications, thereby reducing bureaucratic friction.

BOI Governor Atty. Marjorie O. Ramos-Samaniego extended gratitude to the LRA, the Fiscal Incentives Review Board (FIRB), and various Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) for their collective effort in harmonizing policies and clarifying procedures. Representing the LRA at the ceremony, Pampanga Register of Deeds Atty. Lorna Dee affirmed that the registration of these leases reflects a national dedication to creating a business environment built on trust and clarity.

Secretary Roque expressed support for the finalization of the IRR, noting it boosts investor confidence through a stable and transparent regulatory environment.

"Our goal is to establish the Philippines as a top global investment destination. This signing provides the long-term security our investors need and proves that we are serious about creating a more competitive and business-friendly nation," she added.

This new regulatory framework will officially take effect on January 4, 2026, following its publication in a newspaper on December 20. 

HKIAC Announces Expansion of Expedited Procedure, Updates Fees and Releases New Report to Enhance Transparency on Costs

The Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC) expands eligibility for expedited procedures, announces fee updates under the HKIAC Administered Arbitration Rules, and releases a new report aimed at improving transparency on arbitral tribunal hourly rates in international arbitration.

Expanded Scope for Expedited Procedures

HKIAC has expanded the scope of its Expedited Procedure by increasing the monetary threshold of the maximum amount in dispute from HK$25 million to HK$50 million (approximately US$6.4 million), enabling more users to apply for streamlined proceedings.

Modest Revision to Registration Fee

HKIAC has revised its registration fee to HK$10,000, applicable to all cases regardless of dispute size. This marks the first change since the fee was set at HK$8,000, which has remained unchanged for 12 years. The revision reflects HKIAC’s commitment to maintaining affordability while continuing to deliver world-class arbitration services.

HKIAC Administrative Fees Remain Capped

HKIAC continues to offer a capped administrative fee structure, from a minimum fee of HK$15,000, up to a maximum fee of HK$440,000 for disputes exceeding HK$400 million in value. This structure ensures predictability and cost control for users, distinguishing HKIAC from many other institutions.

Flexible Arbitrator Fee Options

With respect to arbitral tribunal fees, HKIAC remains one of the few institutions globally to offer parties a choice between hourly rate and ad valorem fee models, with the hourly rate as the default.

- Hourly rates are typically agreed between the arbitrator and the party (or parties, as applicable) designating them, subject to a cap.

- While arbitrators’ hourly rates often do not reach the cap in smaller cases, HKIAC also administers many high-value, complex disputes where higher caps are sometimes appropriate to reflect the nature and demands of such proceedings.

The hourly rate cap has been revised from HK$6,500 to HK$7,500, the first adjustment since 2013.

Fee Updates Applicable from 1 January 2026



For detailed information on fee updates, please visit the revised fee schedules page. The increased threshold for the Expedited Procedure and revised fee schedules will be applicable to all cases submitted to HKIAC under its Administered Arbitration Rules from 1 January 2026.

 

Release of Tribunal Hourly Rate Study



HKIAC’s new Tribunal Hourly Rate Study provides empirical insights into arbitrator fee trends. 

- The study examines the hourly rates charged by arbitrators in over 1,400 arbitrator appointments and confirmations during a five-year review period.

- It aims to help users make informed decisions when selecting arbitrators or choosing between hourly rate and ad valorem models, and to guide arbitrators on the typical range of hourly rates seen by HKIAC.

- Findings show that average hourly rates correlate with dispute size, and co-arbitrators typically charge less than presiding arbitrators.

A copy of the Tribunal Hourly Rate Study can be found here.

"These updates reflect HKIAC’s ongoing commitment to transparency, flexibility, and efficiency in arbitration. By refining our expedited procedure mechanism and fee structure and through sharing data-driven insights, we empower users to make informed choices and ensure our services remain accessible and world-class."

— Joanne Lau, Secretary-General, HKIAC

𝐔𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐫 𝐧𝐚 𝐏ú𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐖𝐃𝐬 𝐬𝐚 𝐊𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐚, 𝐃𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐖𝐅

Noóng 25 Nobyembre 2025 (Martes), isinagawa ang Organizational and First (Regular Meeting ng Special Committee on Persons with Disabilities ng House of Representatives sa People’s Center, Batasan Hills, Lungsod Quezon. Layunin ng pagpupulong na palakasin ang mga programa, batas, at patakaran para sa kapakanan ng mga Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) sa bansa, lalo na ang sektor ng mga Pilipinong Bingi.

Inanyayahan ang Tagapangulo ng Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) na si Atty. Marites A. Barrios-Taran kasama sina G. Patrick Bryan Q. Ablaza, Senior Deaf Advocacy Officer, Dr. Liza B. Martinez, Convenor, Filipino Sign Language National Network, Ms. Victoria Sakilayan, Vice President, Philippine Federation of the Deaf at mga interpreters na sina Bb. Aimee Gabrielle Adiwang at Bb. Edna Comia.

Sa púlong, inihain ni G. Ablaza ang dalawang mahalagang suhestiyon na naglalayong gawing mas pinag-isa at may direktang kaugnayan sa kasaysayan ng batas ang mga taunang Selebrasyon, ang pagbabago sa petsa ng Filipino Sign Language (FSL) Day at ang pagsasama-sama ng mga pagdiriwang para sa Deaf awareness.

Kaakibat nito, iminungkahi rin ni G. Ablaza ang pag-iisa ng iba’t ibang panukalang batas at proklamasyon na may kinalaman sa Deaf awareness. Sa kasalukuyan, may panukalang National Week of the Deaf (House Bill 3671) at mayroon ding umiiral na National Deaf Awareness Week tuwing–16 Nobyembre 10 (Presidential Proclamation No. 829, s. 1991). Ang layuning pagsamahin ang mga itó at gawing isang komprehensibong pagdiriwang na idadaos tuwing huling linggo ng Oktubre bawat taón.

FDCP unveils “The Big Picture” roadmap for PH film industry: A New Blueprint for Philippine Cinema

The Film Development Council of the Philippines recently launched a comprehensive, long-term plan, dubbed “The Big Picture: Roadmap for the Future of the Film Industry of the Philippines.”

The Philippine Film Industry Roadmap, developed in partnership with international consultancy Olsberg SPI, is a monumental step toward building a more structured, globally competitive, and culturally significant industry.

This follows the two organizations’ partnership agreement signed in November last year. The roadmap supports the FDCP’s main priorities of strengthening the country’s domestic film industry and expanding the potential to attract more international productions. 

FDCP Chairperson and CEO Jose Javier “Direk Joey” Reyes kicked off the program at Seda Manila Bay.

Olsberg SPI Consultant Joshua Dedman then presented the key findings and recommendations, which stemmed from SWOT analysis, industry surveys, stakeholder interviews, and site visits. The roadmap lays out a strategic vision for the next five to ten years.

Outlined in the roadmap are several core strategies to further strengthen Philippine cinema, such as enhancing local talent through training and programs, improving skills and creating better industry standards, bringing Filipino films and stories to the international stage, pushing for stronger incentives and the development of world-class studios, and fostering coproduction ecosystems.

“The results were overwhelming, confirming speculations and assumptions as to why local cinema is where it is right now but more important identifying areas from which improvement, innovation and redirection can be achieved in a well-planned, calculated and graduated fashion,” Reyes said.

The plan aims for a more structured, globally competitive, and culturally significant future for the industry, moving beyond familiar narratives to explore new stories and opportunities.

The launch was not just a presentation but it was also a powerful demonstration of unity and commitment from key stakeholders. A ceremonial signing of the Commitment Wall solidified support.

Among those who backed the initiative was Negros Occidental Third District Rep. Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez, Chair of the House Special Committee on Creative Industries, who delivered a keynote address on rebuilding the industry.

Benitez stressed their commitment to pushing for “stronger incentives, deeper global collaboration, world-class training, co-productions, and the development of an international-standard film studio.”

Further support was shown by influential industry leaders like Roselle Monteverde of the Entertainment Producers of the Philippines and Madonna Tarrayo of the Philippine Independent Producers Group. The event officially closed with the remarks from Department of Trade and Industry Asec. Nylah Bautista.

The FDCP reaffirms its commitment to strengthening Philippine cinema through progressive policies, targeted programs, and sustained collaborations, working hand in hand with stakeholders to elevate Filipino stories on both local and international stages.

DOST’s COBRA Technology Turnover Opens New Opportunities for Philippine Manufacturing and Defense Industries

Capas, Tarlac — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) formally turned over the Controller Operated Battle Ready Armament (COBRA) to the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Philippine Army (PA) in a ceremony held at Camp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac—opening new opportunities for local industries to participate in the production, maintenance, and future export of defense technologies.

The COBRA prototype, installed on APC Gen. Luis Malinis, is able to identify and lock its stationary or moving target even from a distance of more than 500 meters. 

Developed under a two-year partnership funded jointly by DOST and DND, with P24 million counterpart funding from DOST and P5 million from the PA, the COBRA represents a landmark in Philippine defense innovation, proving that the country can design and engineer technologies suited for mission-critical operations.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. reaffirmed this direction, noting that “a secure and sovereign Philippines requires a strong foundation in science, technology, and innovation.” He stressed that COBRA reflects this national vision as it enters the hands of the PA.

DOST Secretary Solidum, Jr., delivering his message during the COBRA turnover ceremony.

COBRA: A Catalyst for Industrial Growth and Job Creation

The COBRA is expected to generate high-value contracts for local industries in fabrication, machining, electronics, optics, software integration, and maintenance. Because most components are locally sourced, domestic firms are positioned to take a leading role in its future mass production.

DOST–MIRDC Prototyping Division Chief and Project Leader Engr. Rodnel Tamayo emphasized that COBRA was intentionally designed to leverage local manufacturing capabilities. According to him, “most are locally available—soldiers can also maintain it. Mas mabilis ang pagrepair kasi sinigurado naman natin na locally available ang materials.”

Army: Local Manufacturing Strengthens Defense and the Economy

Philippine Army Commanding General Lieutenant General Antonio G. Nafarrete underscored how COBRA directly supports the Army’s land-centric defense strategy under the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC).

“We are really strengthening our capabilities on how to defend our land,” he said.

He also highlighted its economic impact: “Malaking tulong ito sa ating ekonomiya—the labor, mabibigyan natin ng trabaho ang ating skilled workers dito. That’s one advantage when it’s a locally manufactured system.”

DND Undersecretary for Defense Technology Research and Industry Development Rene Diaz affirmed the significance of this milestone: “This achievement shows that we have the skill, capacity, and drive to advance our Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) journey. Science is a key driver of defense capability.”

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. (5th from left), DND Undersecretary Rene Diaz (4th from left), Philippine Army Commanding General, LtGen Antonio Nafarrete (6th from left), and COBRA Project Leader, Engr. Rodnel O. Tamayo (4th from right) are joined by DOST-MIRDC Executive Director, Engr. Robert O. Dizon (2nd from left), other DND officials, and members of the Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines during the turnover ceremony of the COBRA on December 11, 2025. 

A Turning Point for the Philippine Defense and Manufacturing Sectors

With the Army eyeing the COBRA’s reproduction, local industries are poised to take part in full-scale production once licensing and certification requirements are completed. The COBRA’s successful turnover demonstrates that the Philippine manufacturing sector is ready for more advanced defense projects—and capable of meeting global standards.

G2EAPH25 Opens Today Bringing Together Regional Industry Leaders in Gaming and Entertainment

G2E Asia @ the Philippines, a special edition of G2E Asia, officially opens today at the Manila Marriott Hotel, welcoming thousands of industry professionals, including many of the sector’s prominent leaders. Running from December 10-11, the two-day event showcases the latest trends and offerings in the Philippine gaming and entertainment market.

The event features an exhibition of more than 100 brands, many of which have no local presence, a focused conference on the Philippine gaming industry, and a full schedule of educational sessions and networking opportunities designed to maximize industry engagement.

A DISTINGUISHED KEYNOTE BY PAGCOR SETS THE TONE

The event proudly opens with a keynote address by Mr. Alejandro H. Tengco, Chairman and CEO of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), offering invaluable insights into the dynamic Philippine gaming market.

GRAND OPENING CEREMONY OFFICIATED BY LEADING INTEGRATED RESORT EXECUTIVES

Following the opening keynote, the grand opening ceremony is officiated by prominent figures from the local industry, highlighting the significance of the event and featuring:

Mr. Alejandro H. Tengco, Chairman and CEO, PAGCOR

Mr. Nilo Thaddeus Rodriguez, President and CEO, Newport World Resorts

Mr. Nobuki Sato, President and COO of Tiger Resort Leisure & Entertainment, Inc. (Okada Manila)

Mr. Greg Hawkins, President and COO, Bloomberry Resorts Corporation (Solaire Resorts)

Mr. Roger Lwin, Vice President, Gaming Operations, City of Dreams Manila

Mr. Yip Je Choong, Senior Vice President, Commercial, APAC, RX (Reed Exhibitions) Asia Pacific

 

LOCAL SENIOR EXECUTIVES ENGAGE IN CONFERENCE AND NETWORKING EVENTS

Committed to its mission of supporting the industry, and with strong backing from the local sector, the event features the active participation of numerous senior executives in the conference and networking sessions.

The two-day conference, focused on the domestic market, will feature expert insights from speakers, including Ms. Ma. Vina Claudette Oca, Assistant Vice President of PAGCOR; Mr. Evan Spytma, CEO of Casino Plus; Mr. John Lucas, Chief Hospitality Officer of Newport World Resorts; Mr. Samuel Wilkes, Vice President, F&B Business Development & Strategy of Solaire Resort (Sureste Properties Inc.); Ms. Shirley Tam, Executive Vice President – Casino Marketing of Tiger Resort, Leisure & Entertainment, Inc. (Okada Manila); and more.

Complementing the conference, this edition places a strong focus on face-to-face engagement. While some exclusive receptions are by invitation only, a range of dedicated networking events are open to relevant industry professionals.

To learn more about G2E Asia @ the Philippines, visit www.G2EAsiaPhilippines.com

Advisory on the Long March 8A Rocket Launch

(06 December 2025, Quezon City) The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) confirms the launch of the Long March 8A rocket from the People's Republic of China. Expected debris from the rocket launch was projected to have fallen within the identified drop zones approximately 120 NM away from El Nido, Palawan and 140 NM away from Puerto Princesa, Palawan; 48 NM away from Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, 31 NM away from Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan, and 40 NM away from Pangutaran Island, Sulu.

The Long March 8A rocket was launched from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan, at around 3:52 PM PhST on 06 December 2025.

Details of the rocket drop zone were disclosed through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) warning of an “aerospace flight activity.” PhilSA disseminated a pre-launch report to relevant government agencies and authorities prior to the launch

Estimated drop zones of the Long March 8A Launch

Unburned debris from rockets, such as the booster and fairing, are designed to be discarded as the rocket enters outer space. While not projected to fall on land features or inhabited areas,

falling debris poses danger and potential risk to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels that will pass through the drop zone. There is also a possibility for the debris to float around the area and wash toward nearby coasts. Additionally, the possibility of an uncontrolled re-entry to the atmosphere of the rocket’s upper stages returning from outer space cannot be ruled out at this time.

PhilSA reiterates its advice for the public to inform local authorities if suspected debris is sighted. PhilSA also cautions against retrieving or coming in close contact with these materials that may contain remnants of toxic substances such as rocket fuel.

World Bazaar Festival 2025: Celebrating 25 Years of Holiday Magic & Filipino Creativity

Metro Manila, Philippines - Now in its 25th year, a remarkable silver anniversary milestone, the World Bazaar Festival (WBF) is returning with new and improved highlights aimed at delivering an unmatched experience for shoppers, exhibitors, and brand partners that are changing the landscape of holiday events. 

New, Level-up, and Comeback Launches for the Silver Year Proudly entering its landmark 25th year, World Bazaar Festival expands its holiday offerings through its newest launches. 

The Iloilo Pavilion will spotlight curated products and artisan goods representing the art, food, and heritage of the whole region. 

Also added to the well-loved Woobies's Gamer's Hive are Geek + Pop and Vi The Game which are both set to bring together gaming, pop culture, and digital experiences to the bazaar. 

Also this year's debut launch is Woobie's Cineshort Competition themed "Handog ng Pag-asa" which seeks to provide a platform for emerging independent and student filmmakers to showcase their talents. 

Apart from these, the notable comeback of Pawstival, the holiday showcase of pet's fashion sponsored by Petsologist, and the exhibition of emerging artists at the ArtFest are surely something to anticipate. 

Meanwhile, one of WBF's signature competitions, Pop Diva: Battle of the Seasons is set to mount its biggest edition yet with previous winners to compete with each other. 

The milestone year will also feature staple activities and highlights including Holiday Kitchen, Manila Flair Open, Hallyu Stage, Christmas Carol with the Angels, Busking Activities, and the Sticky Expo Pavilion. 

Hassle-free service and Unique Finds at the Best Holiday Marketplace The 25th World Bazaar Festival is co-presented by LBC Express, Ang Hari ng Padala, with GCash as the official payment partner. Through these strong collaborations, bazaaristas can now "shop all the way" whether they prefer cashless convenience or reliable courier services for sending purchases to loved ones near or far. WBF ensures that these enhanced services match the exceptional quality of the holiday must-buy products waiting to be discovered at this silver anniversary celebration. 

Fashion & Jewelry Local and international fashion/clothing, holiday wear, and accessories, including RTWs from FJC Trading, apparel from the Indian Pavilion, jewelry and accessory sets from Happy Danes Kolezione, and Thailand Pavilion. 

Fans can also get their idol's pre-loved items or their own clothing line at the Celebrity Pavilion. 

Food & Beverage Regional delicacies, artisanal goods, gourmet gift sets from the Iloilo Pavilion, organic and local products from the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade & Industry (DTI), and Association of Local Artisans, Food, and Other Producers of the Philippines (ALAFOP), along with offerings from Year Luck Food Corp. and Eng Bee Tin. 

High-End Products Premium and branded selections from JMG Brandique and Glea La Sélection. 

Toys & Collectibles Hobby merchandise, toys, novelty items, charms, and collectibles from See Creations Unlimited Corp (HUGsees) and SK Consumer Goods Trading, among others. 

Beauty & Wellness Skincare, cosmetics, fragrances, personal care, and wellness essentials, including bath and body products from Primo Skin and Brew Philippines. 

Giftwares & Handicrafts Personalized items from Fuzzy Ink, gift-worthy products from Vedasto Leather Goods, arts & crafts from the exhibitors at the Sticky Expo Pavilion. 

Christmas Home Decors Extensive selection of décor items from the Christmas Village, in partnership with the Christmas Décor Producers and Exporters Association of the Philippines (CDPEAP). 

Tech & Gadgets Includes smart accessories, electronics, gaming equipment, and telecommunications products from Beyond Innovations Inc. featuring JBL products, Cellboy, Weareable Retail Inc. and more. 

Pet Products Offers pet accessories, treats, grooming items, and care essentials from Bag of Quadro, Petsologist, and other pet brands. 

This comprehensive product mix ensures a dynamic business environment, maximizing sales opportunities for exhibitors while delivering premium shopping experiences for all bazaaristas. 

For tickets, visit the official website: worldbazaarfestival.com and for more updates, follow World Bazaar Festival across all social media platforms. 

For booth inquiries, contact WBF Project Head, Ms. Rea Sobrevega through email: wsi13@worldbexevents.com or mobile/viber: 09274680592. 

About the Organizers 

With over 28 years of excellence, Worldbex Services International is at the forefront of events and expositions in the Philippines catering to diverse industries, serving as a platform for meaningful business ventures for entrepreneurs.

DTI launches Bagong Pilipinas MSME Hub, A National Showcase Advancing Filipino Creativity and Enterprise

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) formally launched the Bagong Pilipinas MSME Hub on 4 December 2025 at the Ground Floor of the DTI Filinvest Building in Makati City. The flagship Hub marks a major milestone in the government’s broader strategy to strengthen the country’s MSME ecosystem through enhanced innovation, wider market access, and deeper integration into national value chains.

 

The event gathered leaders from government, industry champions, regional MSME representatives, development partners, and supporters of Filipino enterprise—signaling the Hub’s importance as a long-term platform for promoting regional products and building a more resilient, competitive MSME sector.

 

A NEW GATEWAY FOR MSMEs TO ACCESS HIGH-VALUE AND URBAN MARKETS

For many regional MSMEs, the journey into mainstream retail has long been hindered by high operational costs, limited networks, and barriers to entering high-density commercial districts. The MSME Hub addresses these challenges by offering entrepreneurs a premium, permanent retail space where they can showcase products, observe real-time market behavior, and refine strategies based on credible retail performance.

 

By enabling MSMEs to access Makati’s vibrant commercial ecosystem, the Hub becomes a testing ground for product improvement, a venue for brand elevation, and a stepping stone toward partnerships with institutional buyers and premium retailers. This structured access is complemented by reliable reporting systems and sales visibility—giving MSMEs clearer insights for production planning, pricing, and supply management.

 

A CURATED EXPERIENCE THAT ELEVATES FILIPINO CRAFTSMANSHIP

Guests at the launch explored the Hub’s 300-square-meter space thoughtfully designed to highlight Filipino creativity and innovation. The store features well-curated sections—ranging from apparel and accessories to home décor, artworks, Halal-certified goods, coconut innovations, and specialty food products. Every display celebrates the craftsmanship behind the regions and communities represented.

 

Lighting, textures, and visual storytelling bring each product category to life, enabling visitors to appreciate how Filipino MSMEs have significantly leveled up through DTI’s trade fairs, design interventions, and upskilling programs. With each collection, the Hub demonstrates the depth of cultural identity, artistry, and entrepreneurial excellence found across the country.

 

A CAFÉ EXPERIENCE THAT COMPLEMENTS THE CREATIVE RETAIL JOURNEY

 

The launch also highlighted the presence of Auro Café, a homegrown Filipino brand offering locally inspired food and beverages sourced from farming communities. The café transforms the Hub into a destination where visitors can linger, connect, and engage more meaningfully with the stories behind the products.

 

This hospitality element reinforces the Hub’s role as both a market access platform and a community space that nurtures collaboration and conversation.

TATAK PINOY, MSME DEVELOPMENT, AND THE ROAD AHEAD

Assistant Secretary Nylah Bautista shared: “The MSME Hub embodies the Tatak Pinoy Strategy—strengthening our ability to produce, create, and innovate globally competitive Filipino products.This space is not just a store; it is part of a larger ecosystem that supports our MSMEs through digitalization, diversification, and continuous mentoring. As we scale the Hub model across the regions and integrate it with the OTOP Hub network, we ensure that more Filipino enterprises gain the visibility, structure, and support they need to thrive in a modern economy.”

 

A SCALABLE MODEL FOR NATIONAL ROLLOUT

The Hub will evolve throughout the year with rotating showcases, regional spotlights, and thematic features—ensuring wider participation of MSMEs nationwide. The concept is designed to be replicable and scalable, enabling DTI to bring similar market-access platforms to more regions while merging it with the strengthened OTOP Hub implementation.

 

NOW OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

 

The DTI Bagong Pilipinas MSME Hub is now open Mondays to Fridays, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Visitors are invited to explore the space, enjoy Auro Café, and discover exceptional products crafted by Filipino entrepreneurs. Every visit supports the livelihoods behind these enterprises and helps strengthen an MSME sector vital to the nation’s long-term prosperity.