THE Provincial Government of Negros Occidental is pushing for further development of the local food industry as it recognized its huge contribution to the success of the just-concluded 32nd Negros Trade Fair.
Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. Monday, October 2, said the Negros First Food booth, which attracted many visitors, significantly contributed to the generation of higher sales in this year’s trade fair.
On Sunday, the Association of Negros Producers (ANP) reported total sales of about P25.5 million for the five-day event from September 27 to October 1, and during the Arima opening night on September 26.
The figure is about 30 percent higher than last year’s sales of P19.5 million, it added.
Marañon said lamb and pekin duck are among the best selling products at the Negros First Food booth, which was an added segment initiated by the Provincial Government.
The Capitol also extended a P1-million financial assistance to the ANP to cover some expenses of its participating-members.
“We are happy that all participating producers have gained more than their sales in previous years,” the governor said, adding that “it only shows that Negros is really a food destination.”
The Department of Tourism and Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) have recognized Negros Occidental as the second most visited place by local tourists.
The governor said that one major reason why the province is capable of attracting more tourists every year is its rich delicacies and cuisines paired with the Negrense hospitality.
Marañon said that aside from abundant raw material sources, the province is home to many “kusineros” who have the heart and skills in cooking.
With the pressing challenges hounding the sugar industry, Marañon said tourism and agriculture are two potential industries which the province is shifting into.
“Food is our asset and strength thus, we need to further develop the local culinary industry,” the governor said, adding that aside from being number one in livestock and poultry, they are also positioning the province as the “food basket” of the Philippines.
Themed “Food for Thought,” this year’s trade event is also seen as platform connecting the Negrense entrepreneurs to the global market.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), one of the agencies supporting the annual event, is also pushing for the continuous development of local products.
Lea Gonzales, provincial director of DTI-Negros Occidental, said they continue to urge micro, small, and medium enterprises in the province to always come up with new designs.
To become more competitive, they should innovate using indigenous materials and start marketing online, Gonzales said.
“The DTI will be here to support the ANP. We are also challenging them to expand their membership and assist more micro enterprises,” she added.