Trade fair seeks to revive economy amid COVID-19

By Joseph B.A. Marzan

 

Amid the negative economic effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) to the Western Visayas region, Iloilo City continues to seek the local economy’s revival through the Iloilo Market Market 2020, which will happen on Sept 25-27, 2020 at the Southpoint of SM City Iloilo.

The 3-day event is organized by the Iloilo City Government Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Iloilo Chapter, in partnership with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Iloilo Chapter, the Iloilo Hotels, Restaurants, and Resorts Association (IHRRA), and Obra Ilonggo.

SM City Iloilo, the event venue, is also a co-presenter of the event.

PCCI, IHRRA, and Obra Ilonggo will be joined by more than 50 exhibitors, showcasing local products and services that Ilonggos have enjoyed.

PCCI Iloilo Chapter President Atty. Jobert Peñaflorida told Daily Guardian via phone on Friday that the event was a response to Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas’ call to revive the local economy in the wake of COVID-19.

The event was originally slated to be held last August 25 in line with Iloilo City’s annual Charter Day, however this was pushed back a month later due to the city’s reversion to the General Community Quarantine (GCQ).

“Iloilo Market Market is a response to the appeal of Mayor Treñas to help jumpstart our local economy because we are all reeling from the economic crises brought about by the pandemic. As a matter of fact, this was supposed to happen during the Iloilo Charter Month, which was in August. Unfortunately, due to the GCQ status, we postponed it for a month. Instead of August 25, we are holding it beginning on September 25,” Peñaflorida said.

As to the health protocols to be placed, Peñaflorida said that SM City Iloilo is actively drafting and implementing the protocols.

“It’s difficult to revive our economy but somehow, somewhere, we have to start, but striking a balance between economy and health. We will make sure that health protocols will be in place. We are working closely with SM City Iloilo, and they are now drafting the protocols for the particular event, and we will strictly implement whatever health protocols that is in place,” he said.