The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is proud to once again showcase the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of 110 Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through the OTOP (One Town, One Product) Food Fair, which will be held from October 4 to 8, 2024, at the Glorietta and Palm Drive Activity Centers, in Ayala Center, Makati City.

Organized by the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (BMDPO) in collaboration with DTI’s Regional and Provincial Offices, this event aims to highlight the diverse food and beverage products that reflect the richness of Filipino culinary heritage. Building on the overwhelming success of the 2024 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair, which generated Php 61.33 million in cash and booked sales with additional orders under negotiation, this event is set to elevate the standard of food fairs in the country.

Held at SM Megamall from July 3 to 7, the National Food Fair attracted 50,000 visitors and featured 233 MSMEs, showcasing the growing interest in locally produced goods. The OTOP Food Fair aims to carry this momentum forward while embracing a new design-centric approach—one that puts the experience at the forefront.

A New Food Fair Experience

This OTOP Food Fair, DTI is embarking on an innovative food fair experience, which redefines how food fairs are presented to the public. The focus shifts away from merely displaying products and towards creating immersive environments that engage both businesses and consumers in meaningful ways. Supported by a network of MSMEs and consumer communities, this event is about next practices, where experiences—not just products—create unique value for individual customers. This approach is designed to make the event more dynamic and inclusive, aligning with the new DTI-OTOP brand identity that symbolizes collaboration and inclusivity within the food and beverage industry.

“Set the Standard for the Reimagined OTOP Food Fair”

Inspired by the multi-sensory experience of traditional Filipino festivals, the OTOP Food Fair offers a deeper connection to Filipino culture through the five senses. The event will celebrate Filipino flavors in ways that stir emotions and capture the essence of the Philippines’ culinary landscape:

• SEE the vibrant and colorful presentations of Filipino dishes and products that represent the country’s rich diversity.
• HEAR the inspiring stories of Filipino artisans and MSMEs as they share the journey behind their innovative products.
• TASTE the unique and authentic flavors of the Philippines, from sweet delicacies to savory dishes.
• TOUCH the soul through good food and a sense of community, as Filipino
hospitality shines throughout the event.
• SMELL the enticing aromas of success, as each product showcases the hard work and dedication of local entrepreneurs.

A Feast for the Senses

The OTOP Food Fair will not only highlight top-tier Filipino food products but also provide an opportunity for MSMEs to connect with institutional buyers and mainstream markets.

The fair will feature the best-of-breed food products with competitive packaging, designed to appeal to both buyers and consumers. This year’s event will also set a new standard for food fairs, positioning itself as a feast for the senses, where visitors can fully immerse themselves in the rich culinary culture of the Philippines.

Participation in the event is free, and those unable to attend in person can join via livestream on the National Food Fair’s social media channels. More details about the event and participants will be announced soon.

Aspiring entrepreneurs who wish to participate in future DTI-BMDPO fairs can reach out to their local DTI offices or directly contact the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions & OTOP by emailing Director Marievic Bonoan at BMDPO@dti.gov.ph. Stay informed and updated by following DTI-BMDPO on Facebook (@BMDPO), X (@DTI_BMDPO), Instagram (@dti.bmdpo), YouTube (@DTI.BMDPO), and TikTok (@dti.bmdpo).

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