CEBU – Cebu-assisted entrepreneurs of DTI’s One Town, One Product (OTOP) program, or “OTOPreneurs,” proudly displayed a selection of their finest local products at the cultural event for the delegates of the 59th Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Asia and Pacific Regions, held on October 17, 2024 at Shangri-La Mactan.  The event, hosted by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), took place from October 14-18 in Lapu-Lapu City.

This annual gathering of the DGCA brought together directors general and other top aviation leaders from 47 countries across the Asia-Pacific region, with discussions focused on aviation safety, aviation security, air navigation, aviation and the environment, and the economic development of air transportation. This year, the Philippines took the opportunity to celebrate Filipino cultural heritage by showcasing traditional goods, delicacies, and artisan crafts, providing a global platform for local businesses.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Cebu expressed gratitude to CAAP for inviting Cebu-based MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises) to represent the province and promote locally made products through the OTOP program. DTI Cebu reported that the showcase was a success, with Cebu OTOP MSMEs generating a total of PHP 115,091 in sales over the course of the event.

“This event is a tremendous opportunity for our Cebu-based entrepreneurs to showcase the creativity, quality, and heritage of our products to an international audience,” said Provincial Director Rose Mae Quiñanola of DTI Cebu. “We’re grateful to CAAP for this platform that allows us to share Filipino culture with visitors from across Asia and the Pacific, while supporting our local MSMEs.”

The conference drew around 400 delegates, who were given a taste of Cebu’s craftsmanship through products from the following OTOP MSMEs including Audrey’s Confectioneries – a beloved local confectioner known for traditional Filipino sweets with a modern twist; Hinablon sa Cebu (photo above) – renowned for handwoven textiles that honor the rich weaving heritage of the Visayas region; HoliCow – an advocate for sustainable and eco-friendly crafts, producing high-quality artisanal home goods and accessories; and OTOP Hub Ayala-Lamac – a diverse hub featuring handmade crafts and products from Cebu’s Lamac community artisans.

According to Director Quiñanola, the DGCA Conference not only served as an aviation-centric meeting but also as a unique cultural exchange, enhancing the visibility of Cebu’s artisans and solidifying the Philippines’ reputation as a hub for both aviation and tourism.

“This successful collaboration highlights the role of local MSMEs in promoting Filipino culture and providing sustainable economic opportunities for Cebu’s communities,” she added.

For further details on the conference or inquiries about the OTOP program, please contact:

DTI Cebu Office – OTOP Program Coordinator: Mark Aristotle Cabagnot
Phone: (+6332) 253-2631
Email: r07.cebu@dti.gov.ph

(DTI Cebu/PR) ♦

Date of release: 15 November 2024

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