THE Department of Trade and Industry launched the One-Town-One-Product (OTOP) Trade Expo 2025 held at the Island City Mall on July 15, with guests from provincial, region and national government.
The Expo aims at supporting a broader goals of Micro-small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in rural development, women’s empowerment, youth entrepreneurships participating in the said fair.
DTI said the fair, not only this year, but also in previous years, is designed to promote the endeavors of the MSMEs “by providing them with meaningful market exposure” based on local products promoting identity, ingenuity and community spirit.
“The expo creates a space were heritage meets innovation and where small producers are given the platform to compete and thrive in broader markets,” DTI said.
The holding of the OTOP fair is equated to the essence of collaboration, unity and cultural value just like the historic blood compact between Datu Sikatuna and Spanish General Miguel Lopez de Legaspi forging what is now the First Blood Compact or Sandugo. The fair is part of the month-long Sandugo festival celebration this month.
DTI said that the fair is participated in by some 140 exhibitors from nearby regions of the country from July 15 to 21. It is showcasing a range or variety of Filipino made products to a diverse audience to be able “to present these products as viable for national and even international markets.
It also is providing a space for market matching, mentorship, design development and brand story-telling. “MSMEs participation in the expo benefit from the exposure and feedback and market validation that can guide them towards better branding, packaging, pricing and innovation.”
Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado, in his speech during the expo opening, called on all sectors to throw support to the exhibitors in their quest for more market accessibility and viability. (RVO)
