The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Iloilo is hoping to generate some PHP35 million income for the 100 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) joining the annual “Artesanias de Iloilo,” which officially opened Monday afternoon at Robinsons Place Iloilo.

Ma. Dorita Chavez, DTI Iloilo OIC Director, said the trade fair and the series of activities for the Artesanias highlights not only the beauty of traditions but also the “innovations that continue to push Ilonggo creativity forward.”

“Artesanias de Iloilo reflects not only the artistry and resilience of our MSMEs, but also our enduring commitment to preserve tradition while embracing innovation,” she said in an interview on Tuesday.

She added that the fair provided a meaningful platform for entrepreneurs to “broaden their market reach, strengthen partnerships, and connect directly with customers who value authenticity, quality and creativity.”

The participating MSMEs included clusters on coffee, cacao, bamboo, coconut, processed foods, and wearables and homestyle.

In her message, DTI OIC Regional Director Ma. Dinda Tamayo said the trade fair has been providing an avenue for market testing and economic engagement for MSMEs since 2019.

It was a venue for participants to “practice their negotiation skills, hone their competitive advantage and broaden their entrepreneurship outlook,” she said.

“MSMEs are always regarded as the backbone of our economy. Indeed, we owe it to you. Job generation, the stirring of the economy day in and day out, in your small ways, your contribution is magnified; thus, government needs to be more relevant to your plight,” Tamayo said.

The DTI also prepared daily side events, including the bamboo craft demonstration on Tuesday; food fusion demo on Sept. 17; coco craft demonstration on Sept. 18; bamboo planting on Sept. 19; cacao and coffee demonstration on Sept. 20; and a talk on sustaining traditional crafts and a fashion show on Sept. 21. (PNA)