MANILA CITY–“I emphasize leadership’s meaning as being with those in need because the marginalized or indigent Filipinos are more than the beneficiaries of our efforts. We work with them.” This is the key message communicated by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Fred Pascual as he accepted a recognition from the Rising Tigers Magazine during the launching of their Beyond Leadership Anniversary Issue and Awards Night held on 30 March 2023 at the Manila Hotel.
The Rising Tigers Magazine recognized distinguished men and women who are making a difference in this new generation and creating an impact in society, not just because of their successful careers but also in reaching out to the marginalized sectors of society. This anniversary issue features rising tigers, emerging leaders, nation builders, and captains from different industries in the Philippines and in Asia. These outstanding leaders’ stories are featured to inspire more readers of the work being undertaken and by these leaders and their societal contributions.
Secretary Pascual is at the forefront of the country’s industrialization strategy as he propels the country’s various industries toward an industrialization path driven by science, technology, and innovation. Likewise, through this strategy, the DTI aims to establish strong, dynamic, modern, and competitive industries that will further strengthen the country’s economic recovery efforts.
“We promote game-changing reforms to make our country more attractive to investments. And this is because businesses contribute to economic expansion, and because they are our partners in responding to compelling issues that affect the most vulnerable Filipinos,” Secretary Pascual said in his acceptance speech.
Furthermore, Secretary Pascual reiterated that the DTI, under his leadership, will also focus on attracting more foreign direct investments that will generate employment opportunities for every Filipino, as well as safeguarding the rights of consumers. He committed to deliver ‘serbisyong higit sa inaasahan‘—the tagline of DTI. He is also focused on ensuring that Filipinos will have access to high-quality, low-priced basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPCs) and contributing to various initiatives of the Philippine government that will ensure food security.
Recognizing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as the backbone of the Philippine economy, Secretary Pascual also ensured the continuous support of DTI toward small businesses, especially in transitioning to digitalized systems that will enable them to earn more profit and reach wider markets.
In closing, Secretary Pascual said that “With the rest of government, we continue to do all that we can to help ease the burden of increasing prices of basic commodities and goods to our people. Patuloy ang aming serbisyong higit pa sa inaasahan. I commit myself to service beyond the call of duty.”
