DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque delivers keynote address at the 31st National Retail Conference and Expo, highlighting government initiatives to boost the Philippine retail sector, support MSMEs, and promote innovation and resilience.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque on Friday, August 1, committed the government’s support to revolutionize the Philippine retail landscape, emphasizing innovation and resilience as key drivers for the industry’s growth.

Addressing the 31st National Retail Conference and Expo (NRCE), the Philippine Retailers Association’s (PRA) flagship event, Secretary Roque said the DTI, under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., is at the forefront of the efforts to enhance the local and global competitiveness of Philippine industries.

“Our guiding principle has always been ‘Negosyo para sa bawat Pilipino, trabaho para sa tao,’ ensuring every Filipino has the opportunity to prosper and contribute to the nation’s progress.” Secretary Roque said in her keynote message.

Roque highlighted several initiatives aimed at empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), including the establishment of over 1,400 Negosyo Centers nationwide and the expansion of the Philippine Business Hub’s online registration platform to streamline business processes. 

The trade chief added that the Supply Chain and Logistics Center, slated to open this year, aims to reduce shipping costs across the Philippine archipelago. 

To future-proof the industry’s workforce, Roque also highlighted the recent launch of the ‘Section G Job Blueprint,’ an action plan designed to generate employment across the retail value chain, from local sari-sari stores to global logistics hubs. 

Roque stressed that strengthening the retail industry has a direct impact on the nation as a whole.

“We always believe that when we empower retailers, we empower families; and when we empower families, we empower the nation. This is the very heart of our vision for a truly inclusive and thriving Philippines,” she affirmed.

The NRCE was attended by top retail leaders, SMEs, and cross-industry organizations to explore transformative strategies, emerging technologies, and forward-thinking solutions in the retail sector, with this year’s iteration themed “Retail Game Changers”. ♦

Date of Release: 04 August 2025