DAGUPAN CITY — Eleven micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from Pangasinan are preparing to showcase their products this May 2025 at the International Food Expo (IFEX), the Philippines’ premier trade promotions program dedicated to elevating the domestic food industry onto the global stage.
Natalia Dalaten, officer-in-charge assistant regional director of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Region 1, said the initial batch of MSMEs presented their products for evaluation testing and presentation held on March 19 at the Urduja Ceremonial Hall in Lingayen, Pangasinan.
Dalaten said these enterprises are now ready to represent Pangasinan on an international platform, bringing locally made products to a larger market with potential global buyers.
She said the participation of Pangasinan MSMEs in international trade fairs is a milestone made possible by the institutional support provided through two newly enacted ordinances.
“IFEX is a huge opportunity, but participation has always been difficult for MSMEs because of the costs involved. With the passage of these ordinances, our MSMEs now have the financial and logistical support they need to take part in international trade fairs,” Dalaten said.
On January 27, 2025, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Pangasinan passed Provincial Ordinance No. 342, institutionalizing the participation of MSMEs in the Manila Fame, IFEx, and other similar trade fairs and appropriating funding to ensure the sustained involvement of local enterprises.
Matching this initiative, Provincial Ordinance No. 343 was also passed, establishing the MSME Trade Investment and Exposition Center in Pangasinan.
Dalaten said the center will be established in Manaoag, a top tourist destination in the province, and is expected to serve as a permanent venue for showcasing local products, providing business development support, and facilitating training programs.
“These ordinances are game changers, and it is very important because they make sure our MSMEs in the province have a structured and sustainable product marketing and funding for joining international exhibits no matter who leads the province in the future,” Dalaten said.
Howard Chua Cham, Pangasinan MSME Development Council chairperson, commended the provincial government for championing the interests of local entrepreneurs.
He highlighted that these initiatives would serve as a gateway for Pangasinan MSMEs to expand their reach and establish a stronger presence in both national and international markets.
For Edison Caoile, a starting MSME from Lingayen, Pangasinan, and a proprietor of the Chocomaker.ph, the proactive support of the government offers new hope for local businesses like him.
“This is a great opportunity, because before, I only made chocolates when my relatives or acquaintances placed special orders or sold them mainly online, but hopefully, a purely home-based, small enterprise like me can have a steady market,” he said.
By supporting local enterprises, Pangasinan is not only strengthening its economic landscape but also opening new possibilities for aspiring MSMEs. (PIA Pangasinan)
