MSMEs shine at Iloilo Business Expo

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By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)-Iloilo officially opened its 3rd Iloilo Business Expo (ILOBEX) on July 25 at the Iloilo Convention Center.

Running until July 28, this year’s expo features over 100 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), showcasing a variety of products including delicacies, fresh produce, garments, accessories, furniture, and native goods.

The expo is part of the 33rd Visayas Area Business Conference (VABC), the largest business convention on the island, which brings together business and sector leaders to discuss economic issues, digital transformation, sustainable development, and innovative solutions.

In his message, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas welcomed guests from across the Visayas and officers of PCCI National, emphasizing the strong partnership between the local government and PCCI-Iloilo over the years.

Treñas expressed his support for PCCI-Iloilo and congratulated the organization for recently receiving the prestigious Presidential Recognition for Outstanding Development Partners.

“This recognition underscores the significant impact of ILOBEX, their flagship program, on our business sector, especially our MSMEs. I highly commend PCCI for this excellent initiative that provides a platform for our businesses to showcase their products and explore new opportunities,” Treñas said.

He added that the event fosters a more collaborative business community not just in Iloilo City but throughout the region.

Meanwhile, in her address, PCCI President Consul Nina Mangio highlighted that ILOBEX demonstrates Iloilo’s ingenuity, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit, all of which are instrumental in accelerating local economic development.

PCCI-Iloilo President Engr. Fulbert Woo explained the main goal of the expo.

“The key focus here is not just selling products on the spot; it’s also about learning how to establish business-to-business connections. Exchanging calling cards can create opportunities beyond the trade fair, and we are providing education in marketing,” Woo said in an interview.

He also highlighted the support from partner agencies like the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Tourism (DOT).

In addition to ILOBEX, PCCI-Iloilo is hosting the Iloilo Coffee Festival and the Taste Iloilo: Namit Gid events. These events celebrate and promote the local coffee and food culture in Iloilo, a city recognized as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.