‘Summer Barakalan’ in Catanduanes

By Edna Bagadiong

VIRAC, Catanduanes --- The island province’s food and non-food industries got a marketing boost last week when the municipal government of Virac held the “Summer Barakalan” product showcase on March 24.

Virac Mayor Samuel Laynes said the event was not just a platform for showcasing the innovation, creativity, and productivity of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) but also demonstrated the potential of MSMEs at the grassroots level.

Organized in part by the Department of Trade and Industry, the event featured products of local MSMEs including processed food, handicrafts, artisan coffee, tea and milk beverages, delicacies and pastry products, organic farm produce, apparel, and souvenir items.

LOCALLY PRODUCED Organized in part by the Department of Trade and Industry, the “Summer Barakalan” features products of local MSMEs including processed food, handicrafts, artisan coffee, tea and milk beverages, delicacies and pastry products, organic farm produce, apparel, and souvenir items. Contributed photo/DTI Catanduanes

According to Laynes, the municipal government of Virac continued to extend assistance to the capital town’s enterprises, such as Summer Barakalan and tourism fair, “in recognition of their crucial role in bolstering the local economy and providing employment opportunities.”

Meanwhile, the DTI provincial office launched the One Town One Product (OTOP) Nook at Twin Rock Beach Resort last March 21.

“The OTOP Nook provides a dedicated space for showcasing and selling locally produced souvenir items which would in turn benefit, enhance the visibility, and open up more marketing opportunities for MSMEs,” Laynes said. PIA5/Catanduanes