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CITEM strengthens ties with FTSC, gears up for a stronger 2026 export push

By Aly Dela Peña |  December 04, 2025

Manila, December 3, 2025 – The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) hosted a dinner and networking night with Foreign Trade Service Corps (FTSC) to collaborate on building pathways for the Philippines’ export capabilities as the country prepares for a stronger campaign in 2026.

CITEM Executive Director Leah Pulido Ocampo opened the event, emphasizing the importance of collaboration. “This gathering affords us an opportunity to cement our support for each other, to work together in our pursuit for an export powered economic growth. We aim to help increase our export receipts, by being more aggressive in our promotions efforts.”

Meanwhile, FTSC Executive Director Ben Uy introduced the FTSC Corps and key officers, stating their agency’s commitment to building dynamic trade platforms across sectors and expanding the Philippines' global trade network.

Left to right: CITEM Department Managers Atty. Anna Grace Marpuri and Rowena Mendoza; Deputy Executive Director Malou Mediran; Executive Director Leah Pulido Ocampo; FTSC Executive Director Benedict Uy; and CITEM Department Managers Marjo Evio and Joseph Bernat, PhD

 

Presented through a comprehensive video presentation, CITEM highlighted its signature events: Manila FAME, IFEX Philippines, and the Sustainability Solutions Exchange (SSX), banner program CREATEPhilippines; and highlighted its participation in over 20 international trade fairs in 2026. It opened the door for FTSC to collaborate and lend its support to these key events and international engagements.

CITEM Deputy Executive Director Malou Mediran concluded the short program with a toast to the two agencies’ shared mission and an exciting journey for Philippine exports.

The evening was marked by lively discussions on aligning priorities and fostering stronger partnerships to propel Philippine export industries to greater international success in 2026 and beyond.

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) and its officials do not engage in any form of solicitation, whether for charitable donations, civic partnerships, legal participation, or other related activities through individuals or groups claiming association with CITEM. All official business of the agency is coursed exclusively through authorized channels and networks. We strongly advise the public to report these fraudulent activities, communications, or announcements immediately to info@citem.com.ph.

For everyone's guidance. Thank you.