The Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) longest-running regional marketing event, the Sandugo Trade Expo, formally opens on Wednesday, July 24 at the Island City Mall in Tagbilaran City.

The trade show, now on its 32nd year, banners the theme “Beyond Expectations @ 32.”

More than 200 exhibitors from the Visayas, Mindanao and Luzon are expected to be in the event showcasing export-worthy products ranging from processed food, furniture, gifts and home furnishings, wearables and home style, fashion accessories and wellness products.

Majority of the exhibitors are beneficiaries of the various programs of DTI such as the Kapatid Mentor Me Program (KMME), One Town One Product (OTOP), CARP and Shared Service Facilities (SSFs).

Meanwhile, a special setting “TSOKOLATERIA SA BOHOL” will also be opened bannering products from Bohol’s known cacao and coffee processors. This endeavor is launched in cooperation with the Philippine Commission on Women and the Government of Canada through the Great Women Project 2.

Fifteen women entrepreneurs will showcase the Boholano practice of serving chocolate and tablea paired with delectable homemade treats.

The trade expo has consistently generated an increase in revenue. Last year, the event amassed P33 million worth of cash and booked sales.

“We expect P40M sales this year,” DTI 7 Regional Director Aster Caberte said. “We are showcasing cacao and coffee & value-added products as emerging products and part of the top 6 products that must be promoted this year.”

Coffee cupping sessions, KMME Batch 4 Graduation, business partner recognition and awarding ceremonies are other side events that will be featured as part of the expo.

Sandugo Trade Expo has provided avenues for micro, small, and medium enterprises to generate profit and to find wholesalers and retailers thereby increasing their market access. The market exposition was created to promote Bohol as a tourist destination in time for the annual Sandugo Festival. (KACalumba)