Santa Rosa City, Laguna — The Department of Trade and Industry – Laguna Provincial Office (DTI-Laguna), in collaboration with the City Government of Santa Rosa and Vista Mall Santa Rosa City organized the Kalakal Community Market, which was held from 17 – 20 June 2021. The said trade fair aims to provide utmost efforts in conducting activities to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) especially during this pandemic.

The launching was attended by DTI-Region 4A Regional Director (RD) Marilou Toledo, DTI-Laguna Provincial Director Clarke Nebrao, Laguna Vice Governor Atty. Karen Agapay, City Government of Santa Rosa Mayor Arlene Arcillas, and Vista Mall Head of Operations and Marketing Florence Bernardo.

In their respective messages, Toledo reiterated the need for MSMEs to strive for better standing in the economy amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic. In addition to, Nebrao expressed his support for Laguna MSMEs and specified that the concept of this activity was based on community pantries. Agapay gave her congratulations for this collaborative efforts in support of Laguna MSMEs. Moreover, Bernardo welcomed guests and exhibitors, and extended her support by providing a physical venue where MSMEs and buyers can exchange ideas. Lastly, Arcillas encouraged the MSMEs to be more resilient during this pandemic.

During the course of the event, MSMEs were able to talk to potential clients or buyers, and were also able to boost sales in the trade fair. The four-day Kalakal Community Market generated an approximately ₱300,000 sales from 33 Laguna MSME exhibitors who participated in the event. ♦

Date of Release: 7 July 2021