MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur--The Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) together with its development partners and the city of Marawi kicked off Tuesday, May 17, this year's commemoration of Marawi Week of Peace with a trade fair and expo showcasing products of local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
More than 30 MSMEs assisted by TFBM's implementing agencies and development partners are participating in the trade fair. Among the products sold are handwoven products, garments, agri-products, food items and Maranao handicrafts and delicacies.
Department of Trade and Industry's Special Concerns Usec. Ameenah Fajardo said the trade fair seeks to promote and give exposure to local products. "By showcasing these Maranao products through trade fairs such as this, we can show to the other regions in the Philippines, and the global market as well, that we are at least at par with other growing industries," she said.
The conduct of a trade fair is a regular activity of the TFBM's Sub-committee on Business and Livelihood to provide marketing platforms to MSMEs and IDP-led enterprises. This year's trade fair has expanded as it included exhibitors from the Bangon Marawi Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
"Itong trade fair has always been a part of the Marawi Week of Peace. We started the Marawi Week of Peace to inculcate in the heart and minds of our fellow Maranaos na pagka may peace ay may development," said TFBM Field Office Manager Asec. Felix Castro Jr.
Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism Director-General Rosslaini Alonto-Sinarimbo conveyed the support of the Bangsamoro government for the initiative emphasizing the importance of MSMEs to the economic recovery of the city.
"We hope to rebuild Marawi City thru business and livelihood because this is the backbone of the economy. We cannot accommodate all in the government, we have to make it a point for businesses to come back because this will bring sustainability to the economy," she said.
Meanwhile, city mayor Majul Gandamra underscored, in his message delivered by TFBM's Sub-committee on Business and Livelihood Technical Working Group Head Cabsaran Pacasum Jr., that the trade fair is not only a display of peace and resilience within and among the people of Marawi but also a manifestation that although slowly, Marawi is rising again and its people are getting back on their own feet. (APB/PIA Lanao del Sur)
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