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In a groundbreaking collaboration set to redefine standards for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) proudly announces its participation in the 4th edition of ProPak Philippines, the nation’s premier processing and packaging trade show scheduled from January 31 to February 2, 2024, at the World Trade Center – Manila.
Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona of the DTI Regional Operations Group expresses enthusiasm for the opportunities presented by the 4th edition of ProPak Philippines for Filipino MSMEs to innovate and enhance their product processing and packaging.
“As ProPak Philippines enters its 4th edition, the DTl is thrilled about the opportunities it presents for our Filipino MSMEs to innovate and elevate their product processing and packaging,” says Undersecretary Lantayona.
Since its establishment in 2019, ProPak Philippines has consistently upheld its commitment to being the premier platform for unveiling market trends, cultivating essential industry connections, facilitating strategic investments, reaching far beyond the traditional trade show experience, and bringing together innovation, knowledge, and business opportunities.
“ProPak Philippines’ commitment aligns perfectly with the objectives of the DI’s One Town, One Product (OTOP) Philippines Program. As the lead agency mandated to spearhead the program’s implementation through the newly passed Republic Act 11960, also known as the OTOP Philippines Act, we at the DI fervently hope that this partnership with Informa markets brings opportunities for our clients-the MSMEs-to learn and build capacity to develop and compete in international markets by enhancing their processes and packaging,” the ROG chief added.
Throughout the three-day event, attendees can expect to gain valuable insights into the latest technological advancements, industry trends, and sustainable practices shaping the future of processing and packaging. Renowned speakers and thought leaders will share their expertise during seminars, providing a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the sector.
Likewise, the exhibition floor will showcase cutting-edge products, services, and solutions from leading companies, creating a vibrant marketplace for networking and business transactions. This dynamic environment encourages collaboration, allowing businesses to explore potential partnerships and collaborations that can drive innovation and propel the industry forward.
Forging a Strong Partnership for MSMEs’ Growth and Development
Last year, the Department of Trade and Industry-Regional Operations Group (DTI-ROG) and UBM Exhibitions Philippines Inc. (Informa Markets) formally joined forces for a robust collaboration to elevate the packaging and processing industry to new heights. The collaboration is set to span from 2024 to 2026, with a mutual objective of empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by providing them with the opportunity to explore and adopt state-of-the-art technologies.
DTI-ROG, recognizing the significance of global exposure, has pledged to support the ProPak Asia exhibitions by facilitating the participation of over three hundred MSMEs at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC). This commitment aims to provide these enterprises with a platform to showcase their products and services on an international stage.
On the other hand, UBM Exhibitions Philippines Inc. contributes its unparalleled organizational expertise to the partnership. The ProPak Philippines 2024 and its succeeding editions are scheduled to take place at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, where UBM’s organizational prowess will be instrumental in orchestrating a world-class event. This exhibition is poised to be a transformative experience for local packaging service providers and MSMEs, granting them access to cutting-edge technology that has the potential to revolutionize their operations.
DTI through its Regional Operations Group (ROG) also signed a Letter of Intent (LOl) to collaborate with the Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research
(TISTR) during the ProPak Philippines 2023 event. The LOl focuses on fostering an exchange of knowledge and experiences related to packaging innovation, technology trends, and emerging opportunities and challenges for MSMEs between the Philippines and Thailand.
Additionally, the agreement aims to enhance the competitiveness of both countries through sustainable technology and innovation. It seeks to co-develop and implement projects that promote and enable technology adoption for MSMEs in the Philippines and Thailand.
What’s New in 2024 at ProPak?
As industries and businesses navigate the post-global pandemic landscape, ProPak Philippines is positioned for substantial growth and diversification. It is expanding beyond its traditional focus on the food and beverage sectors to now include the pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical industry.
In tandem with the aforesaid expansion, ProPak Philippines remains committed to sustainability. The trade event not only acknowledges the importance of eco-conscious practices but actively celebrates exhibitors who share this fundamental value. Emphasizing this dedication, the introduction of the Sustainable Booth Design Awards injects a dynamic and exciting element into the event, fostering creativity and resourcefulness among participants.
On top of that, the Packaging Innovation Awards 2024 have been scheduled for a forthcoming occurrence. The School of Environment and Design at De La Salle University – College of Saint Benilde will engage 13 groups of Industrial Design students in a mission to enhance and innovate the designs of OTOP pasalubong food products. The intention is to submit these creations as entries for the aforementioned award.
The Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR) will also host a free workshop with the theme “Packaging for Micro and Small Enterprises” and the topic “Affordable Product Packaging Solutions for Micro and Small Enterprises,” for participating MSMEs.
ProPak Philippines is also set to unveil two additional highlights. The Fi (Food Ingredients) Pavilion will showcase the latest innovations and trends in the food ingredients sector, featuring groundbreaking ingredients and revolutionary processing tools and techniques. Simultaneously, the Convention on Pharmaceutical Ingredients (CPhi) Pavilion will spotlight the newest developments in the evolving pharmaceutical industry, presenting cutting-edge processing techniques and breakthrough discoveries in pharmacy formulations.These initiatives are expected to garner increased support from both the public and private sectors, further enhancing the event’s reputation among its targeted audience of visitors and businesses. Building on the successes of its previous editions, the event anticipates the enthusiastic participation of around 200 exhibitors, drawing a diverse audience exceeding 10,000 visitors from various corners of the globe.
Putting ‘Pinoy’ pride in the spotlight, OTOP takes center stage at ProPak
The full implementation of the OTOP Philippines Act (R.A. 11960) is currently in progress, marking a significant step forward following the approval of its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR). The Department, led by its Regional Operations Group, is actively preparing for the full-scale implementation of the program in 2024.
DTI Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual asserts with confidence that the Department is well-prepared to ensure that the beneficiaries of the OTOP Philippines Act truly reap the benefits it offers.
“In line with our commitment to the effective implementation of the OTOP Philippines Act, we envision a dynamic landscape where the OTOP program becomes a catalyst for transformative change, and ProPak 2024 marks the beginning of this journey. Our focus is on ensuring that the beneficiaries of the law truly benefit, and we are determined to lead the way in driving inclusive local economic development through the empowerment of MSMEs,” said the Trade Chief.
While, Dr. Leonila Baluyut, Assistant Secretary of DTI Regional Operations Group and the designated OTOP Program-in-Charge, expresses strong confidence in the substantial advantages that TOP’s participation at ProPak Philippines will bring to the program and Micro, Small, and Medium-scale Enterprises (MSMEs) at large.
“ProPak Philippines serves as an ideal platform to kickstart the full-scale implementation of the OTOP Philippines Act. The event provides a strategic opportunity to showcase the program’s initiatives and engage with stakeholders, fostering collaboration for the successful realization of its objectives,” the Assistant Secretary emphasized.
Envisioned to foster a self-reliant and independent national economy controlled by Filipinos, the OTOP Philippines Program, as defined by RA 11960, is a priority stimulus program for MSMEs. It serves as the government’s tailored intervention to drive inclusive local economic growth. The program empowers localities and communities to identify, develop, support, and promote products or services deeply rooted in their local culture, community resources, creativity, connection, and competitive advantage.
These offerings, known as their ‘pride-of-place,’ are areas where they can excel or become renowned. The program aims to equip MSMEs, also known as
‘OTOPreneurs, to innovate and produce market-ready products and services, including processed foods, agricultural-based products, home and fashion items, arts and crafts, and skills-based services.
For further information about the OTOP program, interested parties are encouraged to reach out to the OTOP Program Management Office at [email protected].
