Iloilo City to host first Region 12 trade expo

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Iloilo City is set to host the inaugural Treasures of Region 12: A Christmas Trade Expo in Western Visayas from December 17 to 21 at the Event Center of SM City Iloilo in Mandurriao.

The five-day trade expo will introduce Ilonggos and visitors to the best of SOCCSKSARGEN—which includes South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City—through a wide array of regional products and cultural showcases.

More than 60 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the provinces and cities of Region 12 are set to participate.

Products to be featured include chocolates, coffee, processed food items, handwoven T’nalak textiles, and various artisanal crafts that reflect the region’s cultural heritage.

The activity aims to expand market opportunities for MSMEs beyond Mindanao while strengthening interregional trade linkages and promoting locally made products to a wider audience.

Aside from product exhibits, the trade expo will feature cultural performances, live demonstrations, and pocket events that highlight the traditions and identity of SOCCSKSARGEN.

The event will be open to the public throughout its run.