Philippine Sustainability Pavilion highlighted at the 2023 National Trade Fair

Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)–Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (BDTP), the 2023 National Trade Fair will carry the theme “Go Green! Go Local!” The five-day event, which will feature micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the country’s 16 regions, is slated from Aug. 23 to 27 at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong.

One of the highlights of the event will be the Philippine Sustainability Pavilion, showcasing a rich selection of traditional and innovative products made from Philippine bamboo, coconut, native grass, and natural fibers. The pavilion aims to highlight the country’s commitment to environmental stewardship and economic growth through the use of sustainable materials. In harmonizing Philippine raw materials and craftsmanship, the exhibit demonstrates how these materials are transformed into functional and high-quality products.

For instance, bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable resource that is known for its strength and versatility. The pavilion features the innovative application of bamboo in construction and industrial use, furniture and furnishings, textiles, and other consumer items.

Known as the “Tree of Life,” coconut is another rich and sustainable resource. It is a versatile crop that can be used to produce health, wellness, and medical products. It can also be used in construction and in making natural dyes, furniture, home décor, and other products.

The beauty and versatility of tropical fibers and native grass will also be highlighted. Commonly used in traditional handicrafts, they are now used in new and creative ways, such as eco-friendly clothing, fashion accessories, and home décor.

With more than 250 exhibitors from all over the country, you will find an extensive array of non-food products, such as furniture and furnishings, woodcrafts, metalcrafts, leathercrafts, home décor, houseware, apparel made of indigenous textiles, modern and traditional formal wear, fashion accessories and wearables made of eco-friendly materials, gift collections, souvenir items, holiday décor, personal care, and health and wellness products.

In addition to the Philippine Sustainability Pavilion, other special settings will include the following: (a) Innovative Coconut-based Products cluster; (b) Other Innovative Products cluster; (c) the Rural Agro-enterprise Partnership for Inclusive Development and Growth Project (RAPID) special setting; (d) KAPEtirya: Coffee Pavilion; (e) Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Project Beneficiaries special cluster; (f) Philippine Green Living and Holiday Décor Pavilion; and (g) #FlexPHridays photo corner.

To expand the market reach of participating MSMEs, they will be featured in Sisidlan: The Official NTF 2023 digital product catalog, which will include the product information and contact details of the exhibitors. Buyers outside Metro Manila can follow live updates of the physical show through online streaming on the BDTP Facebook page.

The 2023 National Trade Fair is organized in collaboration with the DTI regional and provincial offices.

To know more about the 2023 National Trade Fair and other programs of the DTI-BDTP, follow its social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter or email BDTP Director Marievic M. Bonoan at [email protected].

* * *

Editor’s Note: This article was provided by BDTP.