President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to actively support and take pride in local food products, emphasizing the importance of championing homegrown businesses to drive the nation’s economic growth.

Speaking at the Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair on Wednesday, Marcos urged Filipinos to recognize the brilliance of the country’s culinary heritage as he acknowledged the Filipino Food Month celebration this April.

“This April, we are celebrating the Filipino Food Month, an important occasion where we honor valued traditions passed down through generations, reflecting our identity as Filipinos through the food that we prepare and enjoy,” Marcos said.

The Chief Executive also recognized the growing global admiration for Filipino cuisine, urging the public to take pride in their own culinary heritage.

“Marami na rin ang mga dayuhan na humahanga sa kakaibang sarap ng ating mga pagkain. Kaya sana, tayo namang mga Pilipino mismo ang manguna sa pagkikilala sa mga putahe at lutong Pinoy,” he said, encouraging Filipinos to lead the recognition of local dishes and food products.

The President also called for continued support for the country’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which play a vital role in the local economy.

“Let us continue to champion our homegrown products, elevate them to new heights, and embrace the brilliance of Filipino craftsmanship and ingenuity,” Marcos said.

Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry’s Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (DTI-BMDPO), the five-day showpiece features over 250 outstanding food-based micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across the country.

The fair, which serves as a platform for promoting sustainability and technological advancements in food production, packaging, and manufacturing, also focuses on accelerating the digital transformation of MSMEs.

As part of the initiative, participants are offered tools for e-commerce, digital marketing, logistics, and cashless payment solutions.

“The National Food Fair is more than a gastronomic celebration of our rich and diverse culinary heritage. It is a testament to the incredible talent, ingenuity, and industry of our local farmers and artisans who bring pride and honor to our country,” Marcos said.

The Chief Executive acknowledged the vast regional diversity of the products featured at the fair, and expressed gratitude to the private sector for its continued support of government programs, which, he said, play a crucial role in empowering local MSMEs and strengthening the economy.

The fair is expected to run through the weekend, offering an opportunity for Filipinos to explore and support the wealth of local products while contributing to the growth of homegrown businesses across the nation. (PNA)