THE implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act 11981, or the Tatak Pinoy Law, were signed on Wednesday and officials expressed hope that implementation of the law's implementation would increase the country's competitiveness.

"Tatak Pinoy is a crucial step toward growing, expanding and developing Filipino products and services," Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual said.

"Through this law, we aim to address current challenges and improve the productivity and competitiveness of industries in the Philippines in the global market," he added.

The Department of Trade and Industry has allocated P350 million to implement the law this year. Allocations for succeeding years will be provided through the General Appropriations Act.

Signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Feb. 26, 2024, the Tatak Pinoy Law aims to enhance Philippine industrialization by improving the productivity and competitiveness of local industries.

"We aspire to produce higher quality products and services, and integrate them into the global value chain," Pascual said.

Countries that have done so tend to achieve faster growth, he added.

As part of the law's implementation, the Trade Department will launch the Center for Artificial Intelligence Research in June or July.

Trade Undersecretary Rafaelita Aldaba said they were in the process of designing the center's program and list of participants.

A budget of around P75 million has been allocated for the project, the bulk of which will go to data scientists.

"We can't move forward without an AI strategy," Aldaba said, adding that "AI is the future; that's why we're investing."

"If there is no Tatak Pinoy, it's difficult ... We will really be left behind."

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