LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) – The city government of Laoag formally opened its Agro-Industrial Trade Fair at the Laoag Central Elementary School, showcasing a wide range of plants and fresh produce to handmade furniture, bags, shoes, souvenir items, and a lot more.
The trade fair opened its doors on Sunday and will take place until Feb. 15, 2025, offering an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to discover the rich agricultural and industrial range of the city.
It is a major highlight of the 28th Pamulinawen Festival, an annual celebration that brings to the fore unity and progress as the people come together to revel in their accomplishments and possibilities for a brighter tomorrow.
The Agro-Industrial Trade Fair is a manifestation of resilience and empowerment, nurturing a spirit of collaboration among locals as stakeholders to better take control of their working conditions and access to markets and negotiate prices above the general market rates.
There are 28 regular exhibitors, five Kadiwa ng Pangulo, and 10 quality exhibits that are participating in the trade fair to feature different options of Ilocano local products.
The trade fair acts as a primary means to showcase the diverse crops and Ilocano goods produced by local entrepreneurs and craftsmen as well as the products made by various other businesses and investors.
City Agriculturist Shiela Opelac emphasized the local government’s backing for the agriculture sector and guaranteed that they will keep providing support for the micro, small, and medium enterprises.
“Our trade fair focuses on local products. We prioritize those produced by our farmers and fisherfolk here in Laoag City. At the same time, most of our processors can have this trade fair as an avenue where they can market their products. We help them, the micro, small, and medium enterprises, to sell their products. During events like this, the creativity of our Laoagueños comes out,” she said.
Alecci Jerez, participating as a new exhibitor, is glad and expects benefits that the trade fair will make revenue and make her business be more recognized.
“Participating here is being introduced to inform other people. Our Thrifty Yours Ilocos business only started last year, so people are not yet aware, so this trade fair is a good venue for us to be able to introduce our product and, at the same time, our small business,” she said.
This not only seeks to improve tourism but also gives the region’s businesses a chance to market their goods and interact with buyers.
This commitment leads to increased income stability for these local producers, empowering them to invest in sustainable farming practices and fostering community development.
The Agro-Industrial Trade Fair stands as a testament to Laoag City’s dedication to fostering local talent and sustainable growth.
By participating in these activities, local farmers and producers can reach a wider market, thus establishing partnerships and increasing their bargaining power in the supply chain.
“They help the producers to plant, equipping them with skills to be able to sell, and until now they help them to be able to sell their products in their target markets,” said Victoria Morales, exhibitor from Mariano Marcos State University.
Visitors are invited to explore the trade fair and support the local community by purchasing unique goods that showcase the ingenuity and resilience of stakeholders who receive equitable compensation for their hard work.
Ufelia Pasion, a visitor and consumer at the trade fair, is satisfied with the variety of local product options.
“Their stores are beautiful and budget-friendly; you have many choices of dresses, flowers, vegetables, and everything. Above all, the salespeople are friendly,” she said.
Every purchase made by visitors helps to strengthen local communities, guaranteeing a better and more profitable future for all.
As part of the festivities, the theme of the 2025 Pamulinawen Festival, “Prevail,” resonates with the spirit of unity and progress within Laoag City.
With its blend of commerce and celebration, the Agro-Industrial Trade Fair promises to be a memorable visit for everyone in attendance. (AMB/MTDA, PIA Ilocos Norte)
