The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in partnership with Alturas Group of Companies formally opened the 3rd Holiday Market and Crafts Fair on Nov. 14 at the Island City Mall (ICM).
The fair, which will run until Nov. 18, features 45 product development-assisted enterprises by DTI that are showcasing their handcrafted items and food products.
According to Vierna Ligan, DTI OIC provincial director, the fair has not only surpassed sales in the last three years but has also grown in exhibitor turnout.
She said that the fair aims to promote the local products of Bohol and provide a venue for the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to market their products and generate income.
She also thanked Alturas Group of Companies for their continued support and partnership with DTI in organizing the fair.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Ligan along with Mario Cirujales, ICM manager, Atty. Handel Lagunay, Provincial Legal Officer, representing Gov. Aris Aumentado, Marietta Gasatan, Bohol Chamber of Commerce and Industry VP for External Affairs, Atty. Abeleon Damalerio, chief of staff of Cong. Edgar Chatto, JP Maslog representing Cong. Van-van Aumentado and Katherine Inte who represented Cong. Alexie Tutor.
In a message delivered by Lagunay, Aumentado expressed his support for DTI and the fair, saying that it aligns with the provincial government’s strategic change agenda of developing and enhancing the creative industry and economy while embracing the heritage of Bohol.
He also encouraged the public to visit the fair and support the local MSMEs.
The fair is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the activity center of ICM.