San jose de buenavista: The local government here is eyeing a night market for added marketing opportunity and to boost the income of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Mayor Paul Joseph Untaran highlighted the initiative during the 2025 Provincial Micro Small and Medium Entrepreneurs (MSMEs) Summit at the CityMall Antique, emphasizing the town's role as a commercial hub in the province.
According to Philippines News Agency, the night market aims to provide MSMEs with a platform to showcase their products, facilitating a sustainable livelihood and new client acquisition. Mayor Untaran assured the local government's support in this endeavor, recognizing the frequent visits of MSMEs from other municipalities to the capital town for trade.
Antique provincial administrator Robin Rubinos, representing Governor Paolo Everardo Javier, expressed the provincial government's commitment to supporting MSMEs. He noted that the province is renowned for its agricultural products, including muscovado, textiles like "patadyong," buri mats, and various crafts. Rubinos emphasized that supporting MSMEs is not only about economic growth but also about investing in the well-being of families in the province.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) 6 (Western Visayas) Director Rachel Nufable underscored the crucial role of MSMEs in job generation and as the backbone of the local economy. She urged local government units and consumers to steadfastly support MSMEs to ensure no entrepreneur is left behind.
The summit also featured a product showcase at the CityMall, highlighting the rich array of products offered by Antique's MSMEs.