Manila: Local government units (LGUs) under the Metro Iloilo Guimaras Economic Development Council (MIGEDC), for the first time, will display their best products at Manila FAME, an international trade exhibition event at the World Trade Center on Oct. 16 to 18. “This is the first time. Hopefully, if we can get international buyers, this can be the start of our export,” MIGEDC Executive Director and Iloilo City Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office head Velma Jane Lao said in a phone interview on Wednesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, they called for participation from among the LGU members of MIGEDC, and four have responded — Iloilo City, Pavia, Oton, and Leganes. MIGEDC tapped a designer to help them with the preparations starting middle of October, Lao added. Joining the fair are the Lampirong Collection, Modern Ilongga, Fiesta Philippines, Iloilo Capiz Shell Flowers and Antiques, Corral’s Shell Arts and Crafts, Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation Inc., and Cuaycong Native Products. The conservative target is to earn a total of PHP3 million.
Meanwhile, Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Tre±as said joining the Manila FAME will open doors to new opportunities since “Ilonggo creativity is ready to shine on the world stage.” Since its inception in 1983, Manila FAME has served as the Philippines’ premier platform for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and artisan communities in the home, fashion, and lifestyle sectors. Organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the event provides a cultivating ground and springboard for Filipino brands to access global markets.
Through capacity-building programs, international collaborations, and networking with global buyers, Manila FAME continues to elevate Filipino craftsmanship and promote sustainable, design-driven industries. It is also an approved event of the Union des Foires Internationales (UFI), solidifying its status as a global sourcing destination for high-quality products.