The Orgullo kan Bikol (OKB or Pride of Bicol) trade and travel fair surpassed its sales target, benefitting 103 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the region, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Monday.

The OKB Trade Fair, held Oct. 19 to 22 at a mall in Mandaluyong City, generated PHP25 million in sales, exceeding the PHP18-million projection, DTI-Bicol spokesperson Jocelyn Berango said in an interview.

“The high sales were attributed to a display of wider product lines from wearables, homestyle, and processed foods, and the colorful and attractive Christmas decorations that delighted the buyers,” she said.

Berango said the exhibitors proved that their products are ready for the global market.

“Bicol products have evolved and have become world-class as these products underwent a series of intensive product development before the exhibit. Many products showcased at the fair are already being exported to the United States, Canada, Japan, Korea, and Europe,” Berango said.

Organized in 1996, the OKB fair has become the longest-running DTI-organized trade fair in the country.

“To the organizers and exhibitors, congratulations on another successful OKB Trade & Travel Fair. To all the buyers, and to everyone who contributed to the success of the 28th edition of OKB, thank you for all the support,” she added. (PNA)