Western Visayas showcases heritage crafts at national trade fair

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Western Visayas is making a strong showing at the Department of Trade and Industry-Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair 2026, with Aklan contributing one of the highest number of exhibitors from the region.

Eight Aklan micro, small and medium enterprises and the Salngan Livelihood Multi-purpose Cooperative from Oton, Iloilo are representing their provinces at the five-day trade fair held Feb. 18-22 at the Megatrade Halls 1-3, Level 5, Mega B, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

The eight Aklan MSMEs are Bandiola’s Piña Weaving, Dodong and Mikay Piña Weaving, Elizabeth Rasonable Piña Weaving, Faith Native Products, Handicraft of Aklan Multi-Purpose Cooperative, La Herminia Fibers and Looms, Raquel’s Piña Cloth Products, and Sunshine’s Breadmart.

The exhibitors are showcasing timeless piña cloth, fabrics and wearables, nito products for home decorations, and delectable snacks and treats.

The Salngan Livelihood Multi-purpose Cooperative is featuring its handwoven hablon textiles, highlighting Iloilo’s rich weaving tradition and the craftsmanship of local artisans.

Each piece reflects the cooperative’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for community weavers.

SLMPC’s participation was made possible through the assistance of the DTI Iloilo Provincial Office and Negosyo Center Oton.

These offices provided business development guidance, product enhancement support and market linkage facilitation to help empower local MSMEs to access broader markets and strengthen their competitiveness.

Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry, the annual trade fair gathers outstanding MSMEs from across the country to showcase high-quality, locally made products under the Bagong Pilipinas initiative.

The fair features a diverse range of food products, home décor, fashion accessories and wearable art from various regions of the Philippines.

The event offers exhibitors valuable exposure to buyers, institutional partners and consumers, and serves as a national marketing platform intended to promote Filipino creativity, innovation and sustainability.

The public is encouraged to visit the fair and support Filipino enterprises by exploring the regional displays. (DTI-Iloilo and DTI-Aklan)