In March this year, the Department of Trade and Industry-Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (DTI-BDTP) was all set to kick off its much-awaited 2020 National Food Fair, which was scheduled to run from 12-16 March at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall. This had to be postponed due to Proclamation No. 922, declaring a state of a public health emergency.
With the need to extend support to the local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) affected by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the DTI through its Trade Promotions Group (TPG) led by Usec. Abdulgani Macatoman initiated the Bagsakan Project, a selling activity with a limited number of MSMEs from the different regions, particularly those selling fresh produce and processed foods.
Implemented by BDTP in cooperation with the DTI-Regional Operations Group, the event is marketed online through the BDTP social media pages, showcasing the participating MSMEs and their products to reach more consumers especially in the National Capital Region (NCR). Orders are taken before the event and confirmed orders are prepared for pick up on the scheduled date. Eventually, in addition to cash-only transactions, digital payments, and bank transfers have provided added convenience to the consumers and MSMEs.
On 11-13 December, the 27th Bagsakan event for the year will be held at the Festival Mall in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, with 40 participating exhibitors from the provinces of Bataan, Nueva Ecija, Isabela, Laguna, Batangas, Sorsogon, Samar, Zamboanga City, Davao City, and the National Capital Region. They will be offering food products and other regional delicacies, as well as garments, footwear, home decor, and other gift items. In the spirit of the holidays, this offers shoppers an opportunity to discover unique gift ideas for their loved ones while also supporting our Filipino entrepreneurs.
To-date the Bagsakan project has assisted 150 MSMEs, 13 social associations, and 4 fruit growers cooperatives from 26 provinces, by making their products accessible to Metro Manila customers. The project has generated over Php 14-million for the participating exhibitors, thus helping MSMEs sustain their business activities and continue providing employment and livelihood in the regions.
The Bagsakan Project is part of the DTI’s advocacy to “Buy Local, Go Lokal, Shop Local, Eat Local, and Travel Local.”
The Weekend Bagsakan at The Festival Mall will run from 11-13 December during mall hours, which are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. For those who prefer to shop from home, you can also check out the products online on the Facebook page @BDTP. ♦
Date of Release: 10 December 2020