LAOAG CITY -- A motorcade kicked off the opening of the province’s biggest and grandest summer trade fair at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena here on May 16-22.
Organized by the Department of Tourism in partnership with the provincial government of Ilocos Norte, the Bicentennial "Tienda ni Gob" trade fair aims to strengthen entrepreneurship and to uplift the living conditions of the Ilocanos.
The week-long event is still part of the continuing celebration of the 200th founding anniversary of the province.
“The trade fair will showcase the various products and services of the Ilocanos that have created an impact on the advancement of Ilocos Norte as a province,” said Maricor Racela, event coordinator of DTI Ilocos Norte.
As early as 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday, participants convened at the Centennial Arena along Gov. Ablan Ave. in this city as they traversed Rizal St. going to Gilbert Bridge and then moved to Savemore, San Nicolas town.
From there, the motorcade turned to Robinsons Ilocos then head back to Gilbert Bridge, then to Rizal St., to Vintar Road, to Castro Ave. and end at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena.
Home-grown entrepreneurs like Agnes Asuncion of Currimao, Ilocos Norte said she always looks forward to the conduct of trade fairs like this, not only to promote her dragon fruit wine, soap variants and essential oil products but also to share knowledge and learn from the best practices of other exhibitors.
This year, more than 50 micro, small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) and local government units participated in the event.
Led by Senior Board Member Joseph Matthew Manotoc, a simple program and ribbon-cutting ceremony followed suit.
Aside from the usual processed food products, such as bagnet and longganisa, abel hand-woven cloth, and wood furniture the province is known for, the association of farmers here will also display their unique farm produce and livestock.
Some micro, small and medium enterprises from other provinces are also participating in the trade exhibit. (PNA)
