BANGUED, Abra (PIA) -- The Kawayan Festival here in the province is not complete without a trade fair that showcases the different products of each municipality as well as their distinct cultures.

This year’s Agri-Tourism, Trade and Food Fair dubbed as “Partuat Abra Expo 2022” was held from March 4-9.  Its grand opening was one of the highlights of the revival of Abrenian Kawayan Festival which was not celebrated last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Participated by the local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as well as   local government units (LGUS of Abra), the trade fair generated total sales of P5, 991,676.00.   
 
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Abra reported  that  wood furniture  topped the sales   with a  total of Php 3,374,835,  followed  garments sector  which include the popular Abrenian Abel,  with Php 960,805  sales.
 
 The sales of LGU booths also generated a total of P825, 699 which is 14% of the total sales. The booths were where the “One-Town, One-Product” (OTOP) of each municipality were showcased and sold. These products include pure-honey, mascuvado, novelty items, bamboo products and whisk brooms made out of tiger grass. Aside from the OTOP, the LGUs also included the promotion of tourism industry in their own booths
 
DTI-Cordillera OIC Regional Director Juliet Lucas congratulated the provincial government of Abra for holding a venue like this which serves as one-stop-shop not only of Abrenians but also for visitors.
 
“We congratulate the LGUs and MSMEs for participating in this agri-tourism, trade and food fair because they showcase the local products and native delicacies of Abra,” Lucas said.
 
Governor Joy Bernos lauded all the participants for their cooperation which makes the 2022 Kawayan festival more meaningful.

This year’s festival theme is “Abrenio, Natibker ken na-ASENSO. (JDP/CAGT – PIA CAR, Abra)