IN OBSERVANCE of the Women’s Month this March, the Iloilo Provincial Government is holding a week-long trade fair of local products made by women entrepreneurs from March 25 to 29 at the Capitol lobby.

The exhibit, dubbed “Tiendas Ilonggas,” is spearheaded by the Provincial Gender and Women Technical Working Group together with the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Center.

It is also in partnership with JCI Ilang-Ilang Iloilo and with assistance from the Department of Trade and Industry.

Among those featured are the handmade products made by the Ati community that reflect their rich culture. The Grade 12 Students of the Philippine Science High School tapped the Ati community of Barangay Lanit, Jaro, Iloilo City for the exhibit.

Local Economic and Investment Promotion (Ledip) Officer Velma Jane Lao said the Province wants to provide women with access and enjoy the benefits of wealth creating opportunities equal with men.

“We are seeing that families have increased household income because women are now being productive,” Lao said.

To date, the Ledip Center has assisted more than 250 women micro entrepreneurs in their labeling, packaging, and product development.

Recently, the province of Iloilo was also accredited as a Local Learning Hub for women’s economic empowerment. (PR)