IT maybe the 81st and the newest province in the Philippines, but Davao Occidental always takes pride in the numerous reasons why it should be your next venue to relax and learn.
Located at the end of the southwestern part of Davao Region, the province is home to various flora and fauna and island-to-highland destinations. Its preserved forests and pristine beaches are just among the unending things you can list down in your itinerary.
The five municipalities of Davao Occidental – Sta. Maria, Malita, Don Marcelin, Jose Abad Santos, and Sarangani – have so much to offer. And this includes their rich culture and stunning tribal fashion pieces.
This year’s regional celebration of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Week, which was spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), featured the distinct ethnic groups of Davao Occidental, especially the products of its weavers and makers of indigenous clothing and fashion accessories. Among them are the Tagacaolo, B’laans, Manobo, and Muslim.
Models clad in colorful ensembles showcased the uniquely and intricately designed pieces on August 5 at the Abreeza Mall Activity Center.
DTI-DavOcc program manager, Ma. Joycelyn F. Banlasan, expressed her utmost gratitude and appreciation to the provincial government for being at the helm of the fashion show. Likewise, she shared that the local government unit has been supportive of the department’s programs and projects in the province.
She noted that Davao Occidental truly lives by its tagline “endless opportunities” considering its long list of exciting products and activities for all its visitors.
Apart from the province’s fashion show, the MSME Week also featured the weavers of other tribes in the region, such as the Matigsalug and Mandaya. There was a coffee brewing demo and chocolate food tasting, too.
The regional MSME Week was celebrated from August 3 to August 7 with the overall theme “RISE (Resilient, Innovative, Sustainable, and Empowered) MSMEs in the Digital Economy”.
The week-long celebration is highlighted by the Madayaw Dabaw: MSME Week 2022 Celebration, Produktong Dabawenyo, Ato Ni Buy! physical trade fair and the MSME Conference 2022 cum Awarding of the Search for the Most Outstanding MSMEs.
A wide array of locally manufactured products, including cacao, coffee, coconut, processed food, wearables and homestyle, and bamboo were on display, while some were for sale.
(The photos used in this article are by Juan Basilio Espinoza.)
###
If you have special events, interesting lifestyle stories, and fashion tips to share, you are always free to reach me at mendoza.jennygrace@gmail.com. You may also follow Purple’s Nook on Facebook for more updates.