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CITEM strengthens partnership with PHILFOODEX

By Danilo Dadios
June 20, 2024

Manila, 18 June 2024 — Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), led by Executive Director Leah Pulido Ocampo, forged stronger partnership with the Philippine Food Processors and Exporters Organization, Inc. (PHILFOODEX) on Tuesday following a courtesy call made by PHILFOODEX President Ruben See.

Central to the meeting was a discussion on the possible areas of collaboration between CITEM and PHILFOODEX. Addressing the concerns raised by the group of exporters, Ocampo underscored the pivotal role of regional players in the trade and export industry. The export promotions agency head, likewise, reiterated the importance of integrating key players from the region in the value chain through government-led initiatives.

“PHILFOODEX should expand its network on ground. CITEM can help PHILFOODEX facilitate regional sourcing activities to provide exporters with the opportunity to meet small players from the region and subsequently conduct business matching with them,” Ocampo said. These actions, she added, may help address the disconnect between producers and exporters, and open exporting opportunities for other regions.

For his part, PHILFOODEX President Ruben See vowed to rally support for CITEM, the country’s export promotions authority, with Ocampo at the helm.

The meeting was also attended by PHILFOODEX Corporate Secretary Fernando Esguerra, Director of Membership Mary Rose Bautista, and CITEM-OIC Department Manager Rowena Mendoza.


From left to right: PHILFOODEX President Ruben See, CITEM-OIC Department Manager Rowena Mendoza, CITEM Executive Director Leah Pulido Ocampo, and PHILFOODEX Corporate Secretary Fernando Esguerra.