Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque on Friday pledged government support to strengthen the Philippine retail sector through innovation and resilience, as she addressed the 31st National Retail Conference and Expo (NRCE).

Speaking at the flagship event of the Philippine Retailers Association, Roque said the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive, is spearheading initiatives to boost the local and global competitiveness of Philippine businesses.

"Our guiding principle has always been 'Negosyo para sa bawat Pilipino, trabaho para sa tao,’ ensuring every Filipino has the opportunity to prosper and contribute to the nation's progress," Roque said in her keynote message.

Among the DTI’s key programs are the establishment of over 1,400 Negosyo Centers nationwide and the expansion of the Philippine Business Hub’s online registration system to streamline business processes.

Roque also cited the upcoming launch of the Supply Chain and Logistics Center, which aims to reduce shipping costs across the archipelago.

To strengthen the retail workforce, she highlighted the ‘Section G Job Blueprint,’ a new action plan aimed at creating jobs throughout the retail value chain — from neighborhood sari-sari stores to global logistics operations.

"We always believe that when we empower retailers, we empower families; and when we empower families, we empower the nation. This is the very heart of our vision for a truly inclusive and thriving Philippines,” she said.

The conference gathered top retail leaders, SMEs, and multi-sectoral groups to discuss transformative strategies, emerging technologies, and innovations under the theme “Retail Game Changers.”