BALAOAN, La Union (PIA) – The local government unit (LGU) of Balaoan kicked off its annual fiesta with the launch of the Agri-Tourism Trade Fair held recently at the Farmers’ Civic Center and Municipal Health Office here.
The trade fair, titled “AgKITA 2024” (AGKakadua para Iti Turismo ken Agrikultura) or Sama-sama para sa Turismo at Agrikultura, aims to promote tourism and highlight the town’s unique agricultural products.
Running from December 5 to 21, the 17-day event aligns with the province’s goal of becoming the “Heart of Agri-Tourism in Northern Luzon by 2025.”
Mayor Aleli Concepcion emphasized that the trade fair offers a platform for local entrepreneurs to showcase their products not only to Balaoan residents but also to visitors from neighboring municipalities and provinces.
“Our beloved town, Balaoan, takes pride in being an agricultural municipality. Through this trade fair, we aim to highlight our local produce, support our farmers, and align with the provincial government of La Union’s vision,” shared Mayor Concepcion.
Participants of the Best Agri-tourism Booth Contest displayed a wide array of products, including vegetables, fruits, locally processed goods, handicrafts, and native delicacies, all offered at affordable prices.
The booths, which represent the town’s eight districts, are designed to promote local culture, traditions, tourism, employment opportunities, and environmental conservation efforts.
“This contest serves as both a motivation and a token of appreciation for your efforts in not only beautifying your booths but also showcasing the fruits of your hard work to meet your daily needs,” Concepcion added.
As he extended his heartfelt gratitude to the local government, Jeoffrey Orfiano, punong barangay of District 7, emphasized that the opportunity to showcase their barangay’s products not only fosters local economic growth but also highlights the unique talents and creativity of their community.
“We are deeply grateful to the local government for giving us this platform to showcase the hard work and creativity of our community. Thus, this inspires us to strive for even greater innovation and excellence,” Orfiano said.
Winners of the booth contest will receive P15,000 and a certificate for the champion; P10,000 plus a certificate for the first runner-up; and P7,500 plus a certificate for the second runner-up.
The results will be announced in January 2025.
Non-winners will receive a P5,000 consolation prize along with a certificate.
Judging criteria include relevance to agri-tourism (30%); creativity, design, and presentation (30%); booth engagement and facilitation (20%); display area, cleanliness, and orderliness (10%); and overall impact and experience (10%).
The LGU praised the barangays for their active participation in making local products available throughout the event. (AMB/KJCR, PIA La Union)
