Tatak Pinoy more than branding, Marcos says

MANILA, Philippines — Producers of best quality Filipino goods are entitled to greater incentives and financing perks based on a law signed yesterday by President Marcos, which aims to make Philippine-made products and services globally competitive.

According to Marcos, Republic Act 11981 or the Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Act also promotes inclusive economic growth and development in the country, while making the most of the creativity and skills of Filipino workers.

“The Tatak Pinoy Act is about investing in Filipino competence and talent. That genius and gift must be supported, not by exhortation alone but by true, tangible support,” the President said in his speech during the ceremonial signing of the law at Malacañang.

He said Tatak Pinoy is more than branding as it is about giving incentives to local products that deserve to carry the “Made in the Philippines” trademark.

“It is about creating products and services of the highest quality, because Tatak Pinoy is also about excellence and, as a seal of great workmanship, it must only be applied to those that meet this high standard. As such, we shall give preference and priority to our products,” Marcos said.

The law mandates the creation of the Tatak Pinoy Council as a policy and advisory body to the President.

The advisory body will comprise the Department of Trade and Industry, the National Economic and Development Authority and the departments of Finance, Agriculture, Budget and Management, Information and Communications Technology, Labor and Employment and Science and Technology and four representatives from the private sector to be appointed by the President.

Under RA 11981, priority would be given to Philippine products and services in sectors and economic activities included in the Tatak Pinoy Strategy for 10 years.

Green lanes for Tatak Pinoy investments and exports would be established to expedite approvals, permits, licenses and certifications, the law said.

The TP council shall also ensure better access of Philippine products and services to domestic and international markets, including through placements in international exhibitions, tourist hubs, ports of entry and high-traffic retail areas.