By Rjay Zuriaga Castor and Mariela Angella Oladive
A total of 125 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from Iloilo are showcasing their talents and craftsmanship at the fifth annual Artesanias de Iloilo trade fair, organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Iloilo.
The event, officially launched on Monday, Sept. 23, will run until Sept. 29 at Robinsons Place Iloilo in Iloilo City.
Among the exhibitors, 30 are presenting processed foods, 26 are showcasing wearables and housewares, and 15 are displaying bamboo products.
Additionally, 11 are offering cacao and coconut items, seven are featuring coffee, and four startups are participating from the information technology-business process management (IT-BPM) sector.
For the first time, the Muslim community is taking part in the fair, highlighting Halal products, including chicken pastil.
“Artesanias is a springboard that teaches us to appreciate the journeys of our MSMEs and become part of their achievements, their hits, and misses,” said DTI-Iloilo Director Ma. Dinda R. Tamayo.
DTI-Iloilo is optimistic about this year’s event, projecting a revenue target of PHP 3.8 million, up from the PHP 3.5 million generated during last year’s fair.
Agnes Arcede, a first-time participant and MSME owner from Batad, is showcasing coconut-based products, including coconut ointment, coconut oil, coconut jam, and cookies.
“This is my first time, and I believe I will learn a lot here. I want to help other mothers venture into this industry since there is so much we can earn from coconuts,” she told Daily Guardian.
Efren’s Bamboo Crafts Manufacturing, based in Janiuay, is participating for the third year. Efren, the owner, highlighted the trade fair as a significant platform for generating income and attracting potential buyers.
“When I first joined in 2022, I earned PHP 14,000. We also receive inquiries and follow-up orders even after the fair,” Efren said.
In addition to the product exhibitions, the weeklong event will feature bamboo product competitions, weaving demonstrations, seminars on coconut cultivation, and discussions on Halal certification.
The trade fair will also include a hablon weaving pattern competition, craft demonstrations, and coffee and tea brewing workshops.
