96 Iloilo MSMEs showcase local products at Artesanias
By Mariela Angella Oladive
ILOILO CITY — Ninety-six micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across Iloilo are showcasing locally made products at the seventh Artesanias de Iloilo at Robinsons Place Iloilo.
Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Iloilo, the annual trade fair opened Sept. 28 and runs through Oct. 4.
This year’s theme, “Kultura kag Handum: Rooted in Culture, Made for the Future,” emphasizes Ilonggo culture and craftsmanship in developing products for wider markets.
Mutya D. Eusores, DTI acting regional director for Western Visayas, said at the opening program that culture should be preserved and guide innovation and enterprise development.
She said the handcrafted products, textiles, and designs at the exhibit reflect the heritage, resilience, and hopes of local entrepreneurs and artisans.
“More importantly, these are stories of individuals and communities striving to build a better future through enterprise,” Eusores said.
Eusores reaffirmed DTI’s support for MSMEs through capacity building, product development, packaging improvements, and export marketing initiatives.
Ma. Doritha Chavez, DTI Iloilo officer-in-charge provincial director, said the annual fair aims to prepare local businesses for larger markets while keeping traditional craftsmanship relevant.
The participating enterprises represent six priority industry clusters in Iloilo: coffee, cacao, coconut, bamboo, processed food, and wearables and homestyle products.
DTI Iloilo is targeting PHP 4.5 million in sales during the seven-day fair.
Last year’s fair generated PHP 5.4 million in sales, exceeding its initial PHP 3.5 million target by PHP 1.9 million.
The fair’s 2024 edition drew more than 125 enterprises.
The opening program also recognized partner agencies, DTI Iloilo personnel, and international lifestyle designer PJ Aranador for supporting local enterprise development in Western Visayas.
Organizers encouraged the public to visit the fair, explore locally made products, and support Iloilo’s MSMEs.
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