MICRO, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from Central Luzon proved their market competitiveness by generating a stellar ₱58,491,489.35 in sales during the 28th Likha ng Central Luzon Trade Fair.
Held from September 23 to 27 at Megatrade Hall 2 in SM Megamall, the five-day event easily shattered its ₱38-million target by 53.55% and narrowly surpassed last year’s ₱57.85 million output.
The impressive earnings comprised ₱22.6 million in direct cash sales, ₱26.64 million in booked orders, and ₱9.2 million in pending negotiations.
A total of 151 entrepreneurs from the region’s seven provinces showcased their goods, gaining direct access to larger Metro Manila markets and institutional buyers.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary for Regional Operations Group Leonila Baluyut emphasized that trade fairs offer long-term value beyond immediate transactions.
“We put a premium on sustainability of the market,” Baluyut noted, explaining that steady orders allow MSMEs to scale operations and generate community jobs.
To prepare businesses, the DTI provides support in product design, cost management, and export navigation.
DTI Region III Director Edna Dizon added that the fair serves as a vital proving ground for provincial entrepreneurs to refine their items based on consumer feedback.
Operating under the theme “Products Reimagined, Made for the World,” the event bridges local artisans with domestic and international networks.
For many participants, the fair has been a cornerstone of business growth.
Mia Velasco Reyes, CEO of Bataan-based Cley’s Food Products, leveraged DTI programs like the Kapatid Mentor ME to expand her bottled seafood enterprise into physical trade events.
Similarly, young entrepreneur Annika Pascual of Anikka’s Handy Crafts and Maiko Pascual of WoodInspirations Crafts credited Likha with helping them secure repeat clients, vital mentorship, and lucrative export channels.
Organized by DTI Region III alongside PhilExport Region III, the Regional Development Council Region III, SM Supermalls, and the Central Luzon Growth Corridor Foundation Inc., the annual trade showcase continues to break geographic barriers, empowering regional MSMEs to thrive on both national and global stages.