BAROTAC VIEJO, Iloilo — The municipality has officially opened its first OTOP Hub, a dedicated retail space designed to champion local products and empower community entrepreneurs. The hub, launched on August 11, 2026, brings the “Go Lokal, Buy Lokal” movement directly to shoppers in northern Iloilo.
A Hub Named After Harvest
The facility is called “Panubason,” a Hiligaynon word that translates to “harvest” or “yield.” The name captures the essence of the project, which celebrates the fruits of labor from local farmers, artisans, and small business owners. It serves as a physical storefront where their hard work is transformed into tangible goods ready for consumers.
The launch was made official through a Memorandum of Agreement between the Municipal Government, led by Mayor Nielo “Bongbong” C. Tupas, and the Department of Trade and Industry Iloilo Provincial Office. The partnership underscores a shared commitment to fostering local economic growth. By working together, the two entities aim to provide MSMEs with the market access they often lack.
First in the District, Fifth in the Province
The opening of Panubason marks a significant regional milestone. It stands as the first OTOP Hub in the Fifth Congressional District of Iloilo and only the fifth in the entire province. This expansion demonstrates a growing movement to bring government support for micro-entrepreneurs to more communities.
The hub operates under the framework of Republic Act No. 11960, or the One Town, One Product Philippines Act. This law institutionalizes OTOP as a national strategy to assist MSMEs with product development, branding, and market expansion. The new hub is a direct realization of that mandate, providing a curated space for quality-checked local goods.
A Stage for Culture and Commerce
Inside the hub, shoppers can expect to find a diverse array of products that reflect Barotac Viejo’s heritage and the wider Iloilo culture. It is a marketplace designed to incubate and promote local artisans and “OTOPreneurs.” The initiative goes beyond simple retail, aiming to boost local pride and economic resilience.
The opening of Panubason provides a new reason for travelers and residents to explore the town. It positions Barotac Viejo as a stop for those seeking authentic, locally made items. The hub is set to become a cornerstone of the municipality’s economic strategy.
