Iloilo City: The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Iloilo has opened its Iloilo Business Expo (ILOBEX) to once again provide a platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to market and promote their products during the Dinagyang season. Now on its fifth year, the trade fair opened Monday at the Festive Walk Mall, featuring around 20 MSMEs supported by the Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Agriculture, and the city and provincial governments of Iloilo.

According to Philippines News Agency, PCCI Iloilo president Fulbert Woo expressed satisfaction with the expo's reach, highlighting the presence of visitors from outside Iloilo. Iloilo City Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) office head Velma Jane Lao remarked on the evolution of ILOBEX into a critical platform for showcasing local products and services, contributing to poverty alleviation and stimulating economic growth within the community.

Iloilo's signature weave, the hablon, remains a focal point of the trade fair. This iconic handwoven textile, crafted using natural fibers such as abaca, pi±a, and cotton, is celebrated for its designs and is favored by designers globally. Visitors to the expo can also witness a demonstration of loom weaving by local artisans.

In a strategic move to expand the expo's reach, Woo announced that the event will transition from malls to the Iloilo Convention Center (ICON) for ILOBEX: DSTN (Destination). The ICON has been transformed into an event center for Dinagyang, with half of the area dedicated to a 'foodscape.' The venue will host various events, including concerts, parties, and music fests across its four halls from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. DSTN is set to officially open on Jan. 24 and will run until Jan. 26.