Butuan city: The Department of Agriculture in the Caraga Region (DA-13) has launched the Agribusiness Support for Promotion and Investment in Regional Exposition (ASPIRE) Trade Fair and Exhibit. The four-day event, hosted in Butuan City, aims to bolster market development support for farmers, fisherfolk, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

According to Philippines News Agency, ASPIRE 2025 features 119 organizations from Caraga's five provinces, each displaying locally produced agricultural products through individual booths. Lynn Pare±as, chief of DA-13's Agribusiness Marketing and Assistance Division (AMAD), emphasized during the opening ceremony that the event is designed to not only promote local products but also enhance market development support services for participants.

The initiative is led by AMAD with backing from the Department of Trade and Industry, the Philippine Coconut Authority, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and the Agricultural Training Institute. ASPIRE 2025 is focused on promoting regional priority commodities, fostering agribusiness investment opportunities, and facilitating partnerships between government agencies and the private sector.

Among the participants is the San Nicolas Development Cooperative (SANIDECO) from Tagbina, Surigao del Sur, which is known for its coffee production. SANIDECO board member Anecita Sumasal expressed the cooperative's intent to connect with buyers throughout the Caraga Region and secure deals with business groups at the event. Their booth showcases a range of products, including coffee mix, coffee jam, ground coffee, and vinegar.

The exposition also offers seminars and product presentation orientations to help participants maximize market opportunities. Additionally, a 'National Agency Day' is planned to facilitate connections between exhibitors and government agencies.