Senate President Win Gatchalian is urging stronger public-private collaboration to develop export-quality Philippine products as a way to create jobs and boost dollar revenues amid global economic uncertainties.

Speaking during Philippine Products Week, Gatchalian said the government and private sector should accelerate efforts to help local enterprises produce globally competitive goods.

He emphasized the full implementation of Republic Act 11960, or the One Town, One Product (OTOP) Philippines Act, which he co-authored, to provide stronger support for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in developing and scaling up their products.

Gatchalian said empowering MSMEs to reach international markets would help strengthen the economy and generate sustainable employment, particularly amid slower economic growth and global financial volatility.

“Ramping up the development of homegrown products for the global stage is a necessary economic shield,” Gatchalian said, noting that turning community-based products into competitive exports can translate into long-term jobs for Filipinos.