LAOAG CITY (PIA) – An array of Ilocano products was showcased in a trade fair celebrating the 198th foundation anniversary of Ilocos Norte on Tuesday.
The ‘Tiendaan ni Gob’ (Gov’s Market) kicked-off the celebration that aims to help local entrepreneurs promote and expand their market.
Governor Imee Marcos launched the program in 2012 in keeping with her policy to create economic growth by strengthening local products.
Products displayed in the fair are the famous suka (Iloco vinegar), rice coffee, cornick (corn), dragon fruit, abel (Ilocano woven cloth) as well as souvenir items made of native and indigenous materials.
The ‘Tiendaan ni Gob’ continues as ‘SiriBiz’ trade fair where Ilocano youth is given an opportunity to venture as entrepreneurs and engage in online business.
As support to local entrepreneurs, the provincial government also conducts various training and offers loan assistance to improve their businesses.
Since the launching of the bicentennial movement of Ilocos Norte in 2012, Marcos emphasized that the next generation must be equipped in the transformation of the province in the following years.
Meanwhile, the 198th foundation anniversary will be highlighted by the ‘Open Capitol’ for the public to see the operations and services of the provincial capitol to promote transparency in governance in all provincial offices.
Other activities include a mini job fair at the Provincial Capitol Multi-purpose Hall, junior officials mock session and exhibition debate at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Hall and Professional Regulations Commission mobile outreach at the Provincial Auditorium. (MCA/CDG, PIA1-Ilocos Norte with reports from Jennifer T. Pambid, PGIN-CMO)
