GOOD EXAMPLES TO FOLLOW
Some companies are already doing this. A fast food chain, for instance, sources its rice, chicken, and some condiments from local producers.
Another, though Filipino-owned, has shown that integrating local supply chains is possible even when expanding globally.
Even within foreign franchises, there’s often flexibility. Many franchise agreements allow local operators to choose suppliers, as long as the products meet quality standards. That means there’s room to negotiate — room for local ketchup, local packaging, local vegetables, and more.
WHY NOT A LOCAL PROCUREMENT POLICY?
The government, through the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) or the Board of Investments (BOI), could develop a Local Procurement Incentive Program — a framework that rewards foreign franchises for sourcing locally.
Such a program could include:
* Tax incentives for using locally manufactured food inputs and packaging.
* Recognition or awards for companies that achieve high local sourcing ratios.
* Public-private dialogues where food manufacturers, farmers, and franchises can co-create sustainable supply agreements.
Even local government units (LGUs) could help by linking local farmers’ cooperatives to nearby fast-food chains. If a city can supply its own tomatoes, onions, lettuce, or packaging materials, why import from thousands of miles away?
A MATTER OF NATIONAL INTEREST
We should look at this ketchup issue not just as a trade concern but as a development opportunity. Every sachet, every paper cup, every burger wrapper could represent a small piece of local livelihood — if only we cared enough to make it so.
I am not suggesting that we should ban imported supplies. Rather, I am suggesting that we open the door for Filipino producers to become part of the global supply chain — starting with the foreign brands that are already operating here and earning from our market.
MY SUGGESTION
Instead of letting ketchup money flow out of the country, let’s keep it circulating here — from farm to factory to franchise. Instead of helping tomato farmers in China, let’s help those in Ilocos, Bukidnon, or Mindoro.
We may be talking about something as small as a ketchup sachet, but small things add up. And sometimes, it’s in the smallest details that we find the biggest opportunities for national progress.
If we can see that — as my professors taught me long ago — then perhaps we are finally looking at our economy with open eyes./PN
