Iloilo city: The annual trade fair organized by the Department of Trade and Industry in Western Visayas (DTI-6) has generated some PHP11.2 million in combined cash and booked sales, exceeding its PHP8 million target. The 'Panubli-on' (heritage) event, which ran from November 6 to 10, featured the best products of 150 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Western Visayas.

According to Philippines News Agency, the sales included PHP3.3 million in immediate cash and PHP7.9 million in booked orders. Additionally, another PHP217,000 in orders is under negotiation. When realized, total potential sales will reach PHP11.4 million. Aklan led the sales figures with PHP5.7 million, followed by Iloilo with PHP2.8 million, Guimaras with PHP966,000, Negros Occidental with PHP902,000, Capiz with PHP548,000, and Antique with PHP502,000.

DTI-6 Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Ma. Dinda Tamayo emphasized that the sales reflect the growing market recognition of Western Visayan products and the effectiveness of DTI's enterprise development programs. "Indeed, the theme for this year, conveying local ingenuity, new opportunities, has proven that Region 6 is an embodiment of the craftsmanship of MSMEs," she said.

The trade fair presented a range of products, including fashion and lifestyle items, home decor, food and beverages, processed foods, delicacies, coconut-based products, coffee, cacao products, handcrafted souvenirs, and handwoven fabrics. It also showcased newly developed products under the One Town, One Product (OTOP), Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), and the Creative Industries initiative.