By Emma Joyce F. Guillermo
LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) – Local entrepreneurs in Ilocos Norte proved their resilience and creativity as the 29th Partuat ti Kailokuan (Products of Ilocos) trade fair generated over P1.7 million in sales, showcasing the strength and potential of homegrown industries even amid challenges.
Held from Sept. 21 to 27 at Robinsons Place Ilocos in San Nicolas, the trade fair gathered 48 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that proudly displayed the best of Ilocano craftsmanship — from inabel handwoven products and locally produced food to fresh produce and processed goods.
Empowering communities through enterprise
For the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)–Ilocos Norte, the success of “Partuat ti Kailokuan” goes beyond sales.
It represents an ongoing effort to empower local communities, strengthen livelihoods, and build economic resilience through entrepreneurship.
“In just one week, despite the challenges brought by Super Typhoon Nando, the fair generated a total sales of P1.7 million,” said Amelia Galvez, DTI Ilocos Norte provincial director.
“It’s a clear sign that our local industries are alive, thriving, and ready to grow even stronger.”
Galvez emphasized that the trade fair provides MSMEs with a vital platform to reach new markets and connect directly with customers — an opportunity that is often out of reach for small producers.
Strength in collaboration
For many participants, the fair was more than a marketplace — it was a chance to share their stories, expand their reach, and inspire others to support local.
“We truly enjoyed participating in this trade fair because we were able to introduce our products to many customers and fellow businesses,” said Rose Macasio, a seller of locally produced coffee and herbal beverages.
“It was a great opportunity to promote our rice, corn, and soya coffee, turmeric tea, creamer, malunggay powder, and local honey. People are now more aware of what we can produce locally.”
Meanwhile, Chan Rama Alcover, who sells mango-based products, shared how the event helped boost her family’s income.
“Our products sold out — especially our dried mangoes. We reached a wider market and gained more confidence to continue improving our business,” she said.
Sustaining MSME growth
The DTI continues to roll out various programs to help MSMEs scale up and sustain their growth.
These include training sessions, financing assistance, and equipment support to improve product quality and competitiveness.
“Our thrust in DTI is to continuously look for ways we can help our MSMEs, especially those who want to expand their business operations or scale up,” Galvez said.
“That’s why we provide not only trade opportunities but also mentoring and shared facilities to support innovation.”
In partnership with the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, the DTI recently opened a Shared Service Facility (SSF) at the La Tabacalera Building in Laoag City — a co-working space equipped with modern tools and technology to help local producers with product development and packaging.
Programs like the Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) initiative and DTI’s loan assistance also continue to guide entrepreneurs in managing and growing their enterprises sustainably.
Building resilient, inclusive economies
As Ilocos Norte’s MSMEs continue to expand their market reach, their success stories serve as proof that community-based entrepreneurship can drive local development and resilience.
With continuous government support and growing consumer appreciation for locally made products, “Partuat ti Kailokuan” remains more than a trade fair — it’s a celebration of Ilocano pride, creativity, and the shared journey toward inclusive and sustainable growth. (AMB/EJFG, PIA Ilocos Norte)
