The 21st Panubli-on Regional Trade Fair, led by DTI Region VI, opened on November 13 at SM City Iloilo, showcasing the creativity and heritage of Western Visayas. Featuring 185 exhibitors, the five-day event highlights the region’s finest crafts, food, and innovations

Iloilo City, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) officially opened the 21st Panubli-on Regional Trade Fair at the SM City Iloilo Activity Center on November 13 to showcase the region’s rich creativity and cultural heritage.

The event featured 185 exhibitors, collectively aiming to generate over PHP 7 million in sales while spotlighting the finest crafts, food, and innovative products of Western Visayas. Beyond boosting sales, the trade fair aims to celebrate and elevate the region’s unique offerings on a national stage.

Regional Director Rachel N. Nufable emphasized the importance of Panubli-on as a platform for highlighting the quality craftsmanship and innovation of Western Visayas. She highlighted the significance of this year’s theme, “The Power of Local Creativity,” which reflects the region’s dedication to preserving its cultural identity while embracing progress and innovation.

DTI VI Regional Director Rachel Nufable welcomes guests, visitors and MSMEs to the Western Visayas’ premier trade fair, Panubli-on 2024, where she announced an exciting lineup of activities including culinary exchanges, fashion shows, and product innovation awards.

Exhibitors from Iloilo lead the event with 36 participants, followed by 34 from Negros Occidental, 28 from Guimaras, 24 from Aklan, 15 from Antique, and 13 from Capiz. Special pavilions also feature exhibitors from the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Program, the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program, the Creative Industries, and the Youth Entrepreneurship Program.

The organizers prepared an exciting lineup of activities including SAGANA, a forum on food logistics trends; TIRAW, a provincial food tasting series; and HUGOD for traditional craft demonstrations.

A high point of the event will be Saturday’s International Culinary Exchange between Iloilo City and Chaozhou City, China, celebrating both cities’ status as UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy.

The event will culminate on Sunday with the prestigious Panubli-on Awards and fashion shows featuring children’s wear (TSIKITING) and a gala showcase (AMBIT). “Our MSMEs and exhibitors are the heart of Panubli-on. Their dedication to excellence and innovation makes this event truly special,” added RD Nufable.

DTI Region 6 encourages the public to visit the trade fair, which is open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM until November 17.  Director Nufable emphasized that buying local products helps sustain livelihoods and preserve the cultural heritage of the region. ♦

Date of release: 15 November 2024

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