MARAWI CITY (PIA) — Exhibitors of the recently concluded Bangsamoro Ramadhan Trade Fair held from March 8 to April 8, 2024, at the Bangsamoro Government Center in Cotabato City collectively earned a total of P19.6 million, surpassing last year’s trade fair sales of P16.9 million.
The month-long fair boasted an average daily sales of P700,000 from about 50 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) that featured an array of local food products, including native delicacies and processed foods, to eager patrons.
Lawyer Sukarno Abas, deputy minister of the Ministry of Trade, Investments and Tourism (MTIT) of the Bangsamoro region, expressed his satisfaction with this year’s sales surge, attributing it to enhanced product showcasing processes and mechanisms.
He extended his gratitude to those who visited the fair and supported the MSMEs, emphasizing the joy and sense of community fostered by the event. “More than the sales we generated is the happiness of the people who come here at the trade fair every night”, he said.
The fair culminated with an awarding ceremony recognizing outstanding achievements in entrepreneurship and booth presentation. Al Habir Dammang of Ina Sitti Food and Benzaidee Sulaik of Al-Diwan Arabian Food won the Most Promising MSME/Entrepreneur Award.
Samra Maguindeli, owned by Sinsuan Guerra, and MK Catering, owned by Kahar Benito, were honored with the Best Dressed Booth Award for their visually appealing and creatively designed displays.
In line with the growing emphasis on sustainability, Afreen’s Food Corner, owned by Anee Feya Amil, and Kingdom Fries, owned by Sammy Turuganan, were recognized as this year’s Sustainability Champions.
The closing program on April 8 concluded with a free Iftar (breaking of the fast) offered by all exhibitors generously. (MTIT-BARMM/PIA Lanao del Sur)
