By DIANN IVY CALUCIN
The Malabon City local government held its first "Food and Gift Expo" at the Oreta Sports Complex on Friday, Nov. 18.
The exhibit is in partnership with Malabon-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), which seeks to bring a festive event that will give networking possibilities to the city products.
According to Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, the exhibit serves as an opportunity for residents outside the city to find foods and novelty items that are only available in Malabon City.
"This event will create public awareness and showcase different businesses, skills, and talents of Malabon residents," Sandoval said.
She also said the exhibitors would significantly benefit from the event as the city targeted start-up businesses and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to assist them in their journey as business owners.
"Magugulat ka nga some businesses and exhibitors hindi maiisip na taga Malabon pala sila. Most of them were thriving online during pandemic (You will be surprised, some businesses and exhibitors didn't think that they are from Malabon. Most of them were thriving online during the pandemic)," the mayor added.
A total of 57 booths offering different food, items, and services participated in the exhibit including "Pansit Malabon," rice cakes, t-shirts, perfumes, soaps, handwoven bags, and more items produced by the city residents.
In line with the event, PCCI President Melesa 'Elsie' Chua acknowledged the support they received from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
Chua said that the event will also provide a demo cooking activity to sustain the knowledge of restaurant owners and food vendors in the city.
Meanwhile, the city government said they invited investors to help exhibitors grow their crafts and businesses.
The exhibit will run until Saturday, Nov. 19.
It said the event registration fee is free but the booths' food, item, and service prices vary.