The Provincial Government of Cavite (PGC) through the Office of the Provincial Cooperatives Development Officer (OPCDO) in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) opened the 2023 OTOP Next Gen Trade Fair and Exhibit at SM City Trece Martires on October 17, 2023. The event aimed to promote the One Town, One Product Next Generation (OTOP Next Gen) Product Development and provide a platform for micro,small, and medium enterprises to display their innovative products and creations.
Guests and organizers of the event witnessed the opening and ribbon cutting ceremony which was led by Atty. Khervy B. Reyes, OIC-OPCDO, Mr. Alvin S. Mojica, Provincial Administrator for Community Affairs, Mr. Rodrigo M. Camia, Chairperson Emeritus- Likhang Kabitenyo Foundation,Inc., Ms. Revelyn Cortez, Provincial Director-DTI Cavite, Ms. Carol Anne M. Delen, Leasing Manager, SM City Trece Martires City, Ms. Leonor D. Abella, PhilExport National Vice President for Promotions Division and Ms. Liza C. Gabatan, OPCDO Entrepreneurial Division Head.
The trade fair and exhibit opened its doors to 21 exhibitors with an array of locally made products that celebrated the province’s unique identity such as handicrafts, fashion accessories, home decor, and food products. It also serves as a platform to launch the newly improved products of the graduates of OTOP Next Gen program. The fair highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting these entrepreneurs by providing them with opportunities to connect with a larger audience, secure potential partnerships, and even explore export possibilities.
The OTOP Next Gen Trade Fair and Exhibit from October 17 to October 24, 2023, was not just a celebration of local crafts but a vision for the future of entrepreneurship. By bridging the gap between tradition and innovation, the event emphasized the importance of preserving cultural heritage while embracing new opportunities in the global marketplace.