In a groundbreaking collaboration, the House of Representatives and the Department of Trade and Industry – Regional Operations Group (DTI-ROG), through its One Town One Product Program Management Office (OTOP-PMO), joined forces to mount the highly anticipated “OTOP is in the House” bazaar at the Congress last November 28-30, 2023.
The 3-day bazaar exceeded all expectations, generating an impressive sales revenue of over P 3-M. This outstanding achievement not only highlights the growing success of the OTOP program but also showcases the incredible entrepreneurial talent and creativity of Filipino MSMEs.
A total of thirty-seven (37) micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) or OTOPreneurs from National Capitol Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, and Bicol Region showcased their exceptional products, including delicious processed food, trendy wearables, captivating gift items, and practical housewares. Additionally, the online “OTOP Mall powered by SOMAGO” displayed their sample Christmas Gift Packs Special Promo for convenient order taking.
Committee on Trade and Industry Chairperson Hon. Mario Vittorio “Marvey” Mariño expressed his enthusiasm for the trade fair, stating that it celebrates the signing of RA 11960, also known as the “Act Institutionalizing the OTOP Philippines Program.” President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. signed this landmark legislation into law on August 25, 2023.
The opening ceremony was graced by esteemed individuals such as Hon. Stella Luz Quimbo, Senior Vice Chairperson of the Committee on Appropriations, Hon. Bryan Revilla, Assistant Majority Floor Leader, and Hon. Lani Mercado of Cavite. The event received a keynote address from the House Speaker Hon. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, represented by Secretary General Reginald Velasco.
Representing DTI Secretary Fred Pascual, Usec. Bles Lantayona provided an insightful update on the progress of implementing RA 11960 since its signing in August.
Under the dynamic leadership of Asec. Leny Baluyut, in-charge of the OTOP PMO, the event saw full participation from DTI Regional Directors.
‘OTOP is in the House’ initiative highlighted the remarkable impact of the event, as it provided a thriving market avenue within the Congress for MSMEs to showcase their exceptional goods and services, just in time for the upcoming Christmas season.
