Makati City, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is set to celebrate the Philippines’ rich culinary heritage by showcasing the dynamic food and beverage industry at the 2024 One Town, One Product (OTOP) Food Fair. Scheduled from October 4 to 8 at the Glorietta and Palm Drive Activity Centers in Ayala Center, this event will feature 110 Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), highlighting their innovative products and contributions to the culinary landscape.

Organized by the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (BMDPO) in collaboration with the DTI’s Regional and Provincial Offices, this event will redefine how food fairs are presented to the public by embracing a new design-centric approach that prioritizes experience.

This year’s OTOP Food Fair adopts the spirit of traditional Filipino festivals that offer a multi-sensory experience:

  • SEE the vibrant presentations of Filipino dishes and products that represent the nation’s rich diversity;
  • HEAR the inspiring stories behind the innovative creations of Filipino artisans and MSMEs;
  • TASTE the authentic flavors of the Philippines, from sweet delicacies to savory dishes;
  • TOUCH the warmth of Filipino hospitality as they connect with the community through good food;
  • SMELL the enticing aromas of hard-earned success, as each product reflects the passion of local entrepreneurs.

In addition to exhibiting food products, the OTOP Food Fair will offer MSMEs the opportunity to connect with institutional buyers and mainstream markets. The event will also spotlight top-tier food products with competitive packaging to attract both buyers and consumers.

This food fair builds on the remarkable success of the 2024 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair, which generated PHP 61.33 million in cash and booked sales, with additional orders currently under negotiation. The event attracted 50,000 visitors and showcased 233 MSMEs, underscoring the growing interest in Filipino food products and the potential for expanding market opportunities.

Supported by a network of MSMEs and consumer communities, this initiative aligns with the DTI-OTOP brand’s efforts to promote collaboration and inclusivity within the food and beverage sector. The event is free to the public and will be livestreamed on the BMDPO’s Facebook page.

For the latest updates and announcements about the event, follow DTI-BMDPO’s official social media pages: @dti.bmdpo on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok; @BDMPO on Facebook; and @DTI_BMDPO on X.

Aspiring entrepreneurs interested in joining future DTI-BMDPO fairs can also contact their local DTI offices or directly email Director Marievic Bonoan at BMDPO@dti.gov.ph. ♦

Date of release: 03 October 2024