E. Visayas trade fair targets P15-M sales

TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) office in Eastern Visayas is targeting sales of P15 million during the Bahandi Regional Trade Fair scheduled to be held later this month in SM Megamall. Cynthia Nierras, DTI regional director, said in a statement that 111 exhibitors from Eastern Visayas will join the trade fair that will run from Sept. 26-30. They will present handicrafts, native delicacies and processed food, furnishings, handwoven products, accessories, aquamarine products, and organic products. "More exhibitors signified to participate in this year’s Bahandi Fair. An array of the latest, newest, and the best to come from the islands of Leyte, Samar and Biliran will once again be brought to Manila for selling and exhibition by our micro, small and medium producers," Ms. Nierras said. DTI regional information officer Lemuel Montes said the exhibitors underwent a series of product development training and advisory courses to improve the packaging, labeling, shelf life and quality of their products. There were only 62 exhibitors last year and they generated over P13 million in sales. Bahandi is the local dialect’s word for "treasure." The fair started in 1989 and is held annually to showcase the products of Eastern Visayas. — BusinessWorld