DABAWENYOS are urged to open more opportunities for the Maranao evacuees in selling their products and help them recover from the loss they experienced as a result of the ongoing siege in Marawi City.
Mindanao Islamic Chamber of Commerce Founder Marilou Ampuan said immediate economic activities for the Maranao evacuees in the city should be given importance by the local government unit to help them earn money while waiting for the siege to end.
Ampuan said there were evacuees who asked her for advises regarding a possible venue for them to showcase their products in the city.
"Maranaos have many delicious recipes and delicacies that are surely sellable," she said.
Aside from food, Ampuan said Maranaos also have numerous handicrafts and woven malong.
Last month, Maranao evacuees were invited in the 10th World Food Expo held in SM Lanang, Davao City wherein many of the evacuees were able to sell original Maranao products.
"We need more of these events in the city," Ampuan said.
Meanwhile, she lauded the extension of the tribal village in Magsaysay Park as it helped the 11 tribes exhibit their culture where they can also promote their food and generate income from it.
Ampuan assures Maranaos that they will be included in the next Halal Trade Tourism Expo to be staged in the city.