Manila: 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.

According to Philippines News Agency, this April, Filipinos are celebrating the Filipino Food Month, an important occasion where valued traditions passed down through generations are honored, reflecting the identity of Filipinos through the food they prepare and enjoy. Marcos highlighted the growing global admiration for Filipino cuisine and encouraged the public to take pride in their culinary heritage.

Marcos stated that many foreigners admire the unique flavors of Filipino dishes, and he encouraged 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.

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

Participants are offered tools for e-commerce, digital marketing, logistics, and cashless payment solutions as part of the initiative. Marcos emphasized that the National Food Fair is more than just a gastronomic celebration of the rich and diverse culinary heritage; it is a testament to the incredible talent, ingenuity, and industry of local farmers and artisans who bring pride and honor to the country.

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 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.