Kalibo slates 2008 Product showcase
Kalibo, Aklan -- Aklanons will once again get to showcase their products in time for the Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati-atihan Festival with the opening of the Product Showcase at the Pastrana Park from January 14-21 of this year.
The Kalibo Ati-atihan Product Showcase, one of the highlights of the yearly celebration of the municipality of Kalibo to honor of Sr. Sto Niño, is conducted yearly by the Municipal Government of Kalibo through the Kalibo Ati-atihan Management Board, in coordination with the Provincial Government of Aklan, Department of Trade and Industry and the Hugod Aklanon Producers Association, Inc.
As in the previous years, the showcase aims to project Aklanons' craftsmanship and ingenuity; increase sales of participating Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) by at least 10% through spot cash, booked orders and sales under negotiation; to generate at least one entrepreneur; and add color and glitter to the world renowned Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Festival.
The opening is tentatively scheduled at 2:0'clock in the afternoon, and once officially opened, the exhibit hours will be from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily.
This year's showcase is targeting the participation of some 45 SMEs and sales and booked orders of P1.180 M. Last year, the showcase netted total sales of P1.0736 M with 45 SMEs participating; while in 2006, the same activity had total sales of P0.8261 M with 52 SMEs joining.
The opening of the Product Showcase will also coincide with the turn-over ceremony of the Product Display and Information Center in the same venue.
According to DTI-Provincial Director Ermelinda P. Pollentes, the 2008 showcase will highlight Aklan's latest designs on famous woven fabrics and fashion accessories, housewares, novelty items, handmade paper products, furniture and furnishings, and the latest labeling designs on processed food.
Mayor Raymar Rebaldo of Kalibo, Gov. Carlito Marquez, Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores, Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo, DTI Regional Director Dominic P. Abad, PD Ermelinda Pollentes, local officials and other guests are expected to grace the opening of the Product Showcase. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)