Amidst these trying times, the drive to #SupportLocal is important now more than ever. For some, this means buying from small businesses of friends and acquaintances. For others, it’s consciously opting for local brands whose products are made right here in our country. But did you know that we actually have a national celebration for this called “Made in the Philippines Products Week”?
Held every 17 to 23 August, Made in the Philippines Products Week is part of our government’s long-running campaign to promote economic nationalism and help foster public confidence in Philippine-made products. In essence, this celebration is geared towards showcasing the very best of genuine Philippine-made products and services. In turn, it also highlights the ingenuity and talent of our local manufacturers, inventors, and entrepreneurs in various industries.
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A brief history of this national celebration
Made in the Philippines Products Week was first celebrated on 11 August 1936 by virtue of President Manuel L. Quezon’s Proclamation 76. It was later on amended by President Manuel A. Roxas via Proclamation 52 series of 1948, which changed the date to 7 to 13 February every year. The dates actually changed a lot of times over the past 70 years. But the one that we are celebrating now — hence, the present annual date — is by virtue of President Fidel V. Ramos’ Proclamation 1041 series of 1997.
This annual festivity had especially wide popularity and patronage among Filipinos during the 1950s. Back then, our countrymen supported the exhibits that served as an opportunity to familiarise themselves with our local products and companies. So, why is that, you ask? If you still recall from your high school social studies class, the ’50s were also the golden era of Philippine manufacturing.
This peak was largely thanks to President Carlos P. Garcia’s Filipino First policy, which fostered an entrepreneurial environment that is ultimately pro-Filipino. It also served as a response to the impact of free trade as well as American economic dominance during the years post-World War II. Of course, some criticised the policy as ‘anti-inclusive’ and ‘anti-foreign,’ which clearly wasn’t so. Rather than closing our doors to foreign capital, it gives Filipinos economic priority and control over basic industries.
Why celebrate Made in the Philippines Products Week?
Well, first of all, it’s the right way to go about #PinoyPride — that’s what. Now more than ever, we need to promote economic independence. And that can only be achieved through economic nationalism, or the spirit of ‘tangkilikan sa bawat Pilipino.’ When we support and fully love our own locally made products and services, we, in turn, help out one another.
And, of course, there are a lot of ways you can take part in Made in the Philippines Products Week. Whether it’s supporting upcoming local businesses or continuing to opt for local products at the grocery, every little choice counts! Or hey, if you’re feeling extra ambitious, why not start your own? (Don’t forget to source your materials locally, too!)
Here at TripZilla Philippines, we encourage our readers to #SupportLocal as often as they can. From fab home decor and delicious treats to pandemic essentials; is there anything that our fellow Pinoys can’t do just as well (if not better) as global counterparts?
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So, now, we’d love to hear from you. How do you support Philippine-made products, even when it’s not Made in the Philippines Products Week?
Featured image credit: Mara Rivera | Unsplash
