Region VI MSMEs earn P1.3M in nat’l trade fair

Senator Loren Legarda, extreme right, checks on the local products from the kiosk of Panay Bukidnon. The group is known for their distinct traditional and beautiful embroidery, known as ‘panubok.’ Looking on is DTI VI OIC Regional Director Rebecca M. Rascon (extreme left).

Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) from Region VI that showcased arts and crafts products with indigenous designs earned a total sales of Php1,289,297.00 in this year’s Sikat Pinoy National Arts and Crafts Fair at SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City on June 14 to 17.

DTI VI OIC Regional Director Rebecca M. Rascon (second from left) tries a blazer with traditional and beautiful embroidery from the indigenous peoples of Panay Bukidnon.

A total of 17 MSMEs from the provinces of Aklan, Antique, Iloilo and Negros Occidental who are mostly from the handwoven and home accents sector with products ranging from ornaments, jewelry, fabric, and accessories, joined the Fair.

OIC Regional Director Rebecca M. Rascon said the Fair exposes these entrepreneurs to both domestic and export markets and will encourage them to further expand and develop their products to suit the needs of a wider market.

Aside from crafts, local food and organic products are also featured in the trade fair. More than 150 exhibitors from all over the country participated in the event. Senator Loren Legarda graced the opening of the fair.