(DTI Undersecretary Mary Jean Pacheco hands over the IPOPhl-registered OTOP Nook logo to Philippine Ambassador to the Netherlands J. Eduardo Malaya)
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Regional Operations Group Undersecretary Mary Jean Pacheco and Philippine Ambassador to the Netherlands J. Eduardo Malaya recently unveiled the first internationally located One Town, One Product (OTOP) Nook at the Philippine Embassy in The Hague, Netherlands.
“Taking the innovative products of our micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to the global stage not only promotes the rich heritage and culture of our regions but also opens doors to greater market access,” DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual mentioned in a press statement.
“This initiative has the potential to create a positive ripple effect throughout the Philippine economy, empowering local communities, generating jobs, and boosting overall export revenue for the MSME sector,” he added.
In collaboration with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC)–Brussels, the newly launched OTOP Nook features innovative products of MSMEs from the Bicol region, including native abaca bags, pili nuts, and pili cosmetics; providing a glimpse into the diverse offerings of the region.
It also features products from other key provinces across the country, like inable fabric, pearl accessories, and cacao products.
This collaborative initiative aims to highlight and promote the rich heritage and culture of the Philippines to the guests and visitors of the Philippine Embassy.
Cagayan de Oro Representative Rufus Rodriguez, one of the principal authors of the recently enacted OTOP law, joined the unveiling of the OTOP Nook. As a Mindanao representative, he acknowledged the collaborative effort to elevate Philippine products, emphasizing their significance for both international trade and the nation’s internal market.
Meanwhile, Leyte Representative Anna Veloso-Tuazon showcased a native bag from her hometown, highlighting the high-quality craftsmanship embedded within the Filipino culture.
OTOP Nook is an initiative of the DTI that was initially led by DTI-Region 5 Regional Director Dindo G. Nabol as a COVID-response project back in 2022. Looking ahead, the DTI plans to establish additional OTOP Nooks in other Philippine embassies and trade offices in the coming months, further expanding the reach of Philippine products and showcasing the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of the country.
