Filipinos are encouraged to patronize Filipino-made products this holiday season to support the livelihood of small community food producers amid tight competition with big and well-known brands.

Trade and Industry Development Specialist Honeylee Eclavea, in a statement, said consumers should support the Department of Trade and Industry's hosting of local trade fairs showcasing local products and produce from farmers, fishermen and local entrepreneurs.

Eclavea said the DTI upgraded its One Town One Product program to OTOP Next Generation to highlight not just one product.

"We want to try a fresh, new concept. The product should be unique, compliant with product standards, and certified under FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and License to Operate. Through OTOP Next Gen, we are improving the packaging and labeling of one food product. We are also promoting mandatory labeling requirements," Eclavea said.

She added: "Buy local, shop at the local trade center. When you buy their products, you help the local farmers, local manufacturers, and the community. Support the products made by Filipinos."

As the economy recovers from the pandemic, local food producers are stepping up their production for both the domestic and export market.

One of them is Mailyn Villasin, whose homemade gourmet tuyo and tinapa are now being sold in Dubai, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. She started her business in 2018 in her hometown Lucena City with a starting capital of P15,000.

"Filipino products are something everyone can be proud of. They are more delicious and of higher quality. There are many delicious local food products here," the Tasty Bites owner and CEO said.

"We don't need to buy Christmas gifts from outside the country, just buy the products of our local farmers and local producers. Our local products deserve our support and patronage. They make great gifts for our friends and loved ones. Not only do you help our local businesses, but those products are healthier and good for you," she noted.