Batac city: Over 200 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the province of Ilocos Norte are finding continued opportunities to earn, promote their products, and sustain their livelihoods through the 'Mercato ni Nanay Ces' Trade Fair. More than just a marketplace, the initiative provides local entrepreneurs with a venue to bring their products directly to consumers, expand their customer base, and keep their small businesses moving.
According to Philippines News Agency, on September 11 to 13, the Grand Mercato will be back, this time at the Ilocandia Cultural Center in Batac City, with at least 35 MSMEs confirming their participation so far. For many of these enterprises, access to customers is as important as access to capital. 'Thanks to Mercato ni Nanay Ces. It gives us a regular platform where we can showcase our local products,' Agnes Asuncion, a farmer-entrepreneur in Currimao town, said in an interview on Wednesday.
For vendors like Asuncion, every sale helps pay household expenses. The exposure can also lead to new customers, orders, and business connections beyond the trade fair. 'What a blessing. Big thanks to our beloved Nanay Ces for this amazing platform. Donut Park Batac is ready to serve up happiness one donut at a time,' a statement from Donut Park-Batac said.
With more than 200 MSMEs served since it was launched in 2020, the initiative creates a vibrant marketplace while keeping money circulating within the local economy. Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos said the Mercato also serves as a showcase of the creativity and enterprise of local communities. Local products carry more than commercial value; they often reflect the skills, traditions, and resources of the places where they are made.
Marcos underscored that giving these products a dedicated marketplace helps strengthen local pride while encouraging consumers to buy local and support homegrown entrepreneurs. 'Let us continue supporting our local merchants,' Araneta-Marcos said as she shared her excitement over the upcoming trade fair.
Government data shows that from 20 merchants who participated during its first launch at Arte Luna in Paoay on October 17, 2020, their number has grown to 200, with the highest gross sales of more than PHP2.4 million during a two-day fair at the Imelda Cultural Centre in Batac City, Ilocos Norte on December 10 to 11, 2021.
