27 MSMEs showcase products at Bayanihang Metro Caravan
A total of 27 MSMEs all over Central Visayas region are now showcasing their products on the 6th floor of Metro Gaisano Ayala Cebu joining the celebration of Sinulog Festival 2024, adding a rich and varied dimension to the festivities.
Through Bayanihang Metro Caravan, a continuation of Metro Retail Stores Group, Inc. (MRSGI) partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), these micro-small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are given the avenue to showcase their products to broader market-based, including tourist buyers who are visiting Cebu for the Sinulog festivities.
“Our MSMEs are giving quality and value-for-money products. They deserve the exposure,” said DTI-7 regional director Maria Elena Arbon during the ceremonial opening of the Bayanihang Metro Caravan on January 12, 2024. The caravan will run until February 11, 2024.
The joint project aims to further advance its efforts of pushing local products from SMEs to the mainstream public. Metro will be equipping entrepreneurs with space and kiosks in select Metro stores in various areas across Luzon and Visayas to showcase and promote high-quality home-grown products for one month during town fiestas.
MRSGI President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) Manuel Alberto said that the ongoing partnership with DTI has helped shift consumers’ focus toward sustainable means of shopping and has raised awareness of the importance of supporting local products and entrepreneurs.
“MRSGI has always believed that both buyers and sellers can help positively impact environmental and social concerns. It has consistently strived to present opportunities for viable and worthwhile businesses, especially where domestic products are concerned. We are committed to empowering local entrepreneurs, especially in communities where we do business,” Alberto said.
The Metro Gaisano, Ayala Center Cebu Caravan culminates the last leg of the Bayanihang Metro Caravan located at Level 7 of Metro Ayala Center Cebu in conjunction with the Sinulog Festival.
Exhibitors are composed of 14 exhibitors from Cebu, nine exhibitors from Negros Oriental, and six exhibitors from Bohol.
Home-grown products such as calamansi juice, banana chips, rice wine, cacao, coffee, wooden fashion accessories, handicrafts, and souvenir items among others from the region are also featured in the store.
Among the MSMEs that will be showcased during the Caravan include Kimes Foods International Inc., Carson Hills Agricultural Farm, Tuburan Coffee, Bakerlane, OTOH Hub-Ayala, Balai Cacao, Crissander Enterprises, CJ Dried Fish Trading, Garnish Jewelry & Accessories, Kaban, Herbs R Us Food Products.
“This tie-up with DTI is an ideal vehicle for micro-entrepreneurs to enter the larger market of consumers across the country. Not only will domestic products be given the boost needed and deserved, but the partnership also expands the array of products MRSGI offers,” Alberto added.