Iloilo City recognized by CITEM as Outstanding LGU Partner for support to local MSMEs

The Iloilo City Government has been recognized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) as an Outstanding LGU Partner for its continued support for local artisans and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The recognition comes as the city government, under the leadership of Mayor Raisa S. Treñas, brings 12 local MSMEs to Manila FAME 2026 to promote Ilonggo products and connect local entrepreneurs with bigger markets.

This is the second time, under Mayor Treñas, that the city government brought exhibitors to Manila Fame.  Last year, seven Iloilo City MSMEs participating in Manila FAME generated P1.1 million in sales. Their products included hablon, indigenous embroidery, nito crafts, and items made from bamboo, capiz, and rattan.

The trade expo this year, themed “Bloom,” was held at the World Trade Center Metro Manila from October 15 to 17.

Treñas said it has long been her dream to see local entrepreneurs participate in trade expos, meet buyers, and gain access to national and international markets.

“Gusto naton nga makilala ang Ilonggo products nationally and internationally. More orders mean more work for our artisans – aton mga manughabol, manugtahi, manughimo sang handicrafts kag iban pa nga trabahador. Mas madamo nga pamilya ang mahatagan sang obra kag palangabuhian,” the city mayor emphasized.

This year’s 12 exhibitors are Modern Ilongga, Lampirong Collection, Iloilo Capiz Shell Flowers and Antiques, Balai Ilonggo, Owlkelmy Curios, Cuaycong Native Products, WUTHLE Association, Salngan Livelihood MPC, Indag-an MPC, Rattanology, Maasin Bamboo Association, and Erik Castelo Philippines. Their products showcase Ilonggo creativity rooted in local traditions and cultural identity.

Treñas thanked the LEDIP Office, MIGEDC, DTI Region VI, PCCI-Iloilo, MORE Power, PhilExport, exhibit curator and product collection designer PJ Arañador, and the sponsors and partners who helped make the city’s participation possible.

She assured local MSMEs that the city government would continue to support them, from product development to finding new markets, to help their businesses grow and create more livelihood opportunities for Ilonggos.