Saturday, August 09, 2008 One Cebu exhibit opens, features best of province
TO empower micro, small and medium enterprises in the province, the Provincial Government—headed by Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia—launched yesterday the weeklong trade exhibition called, “One Cebu,” or the Obra Negosyo Expo-Cebu Economic Enterprise Uplifting program at the Cebu International Convention Center.
At least 130 exhibitors—local government units, hotels, spa and wellness centers, as well as players in the fashion, export, furniture, food and real estate industries-participated in the expo.
Some of the exhibitors attended a series of training and mentoring programs last July initiated by the Provincial Government.
One Cebu is part of Capitol’s 439th founding anniversary celebration last August 6 and Mandaue Business Month 2008.
Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Eric Mendoza said the exhibition was inspired by Garcia’s trip with furniture industry representatives to Austria, Slovenia and Croatia last May.
Mendoza said the participants saw a trade fair in Vienna, which included a gourmet feast that featured the local produce in the European city.
“So we thought, why not bring the same concept to Cebu? But (we would) display our very own bibingka (in Mandaue City) and other delicacies in the province. This way, both the business sector and the government, would help small industries grow,” he said.
He explained that the local exhibition, which was conceived in less than two months, provides small enterprises a gateway to the market.
“This is one way to raise tourism awareness. Through this, local government units and the private sector (can) bond together so they can follow the bandwagon of business. This is our offering to the people. This year is a test (launch). Next year will be bigger,” he said.
Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal said mass before the short opening program that showcased dances and food.
Garcia, for her part, said she wants to make One Cebu an annual international trade exposition. (NRC)
