SAN JOSE, DINAGAT ISLANDS — The Agri-Fishery Trade Fair 2026, scheduled from September 28 to 30 at the Capitol Grounds in Barangay Cuarinta, is set to become more than a display of Dinagat Islands' agricultural and marine products. The three-day event is designed to create stronger market opportunities for farmers, fisherfolk, and agri-fishery entrepreneurs by bringing local producers directly together with consumers and potential buyers. By creating a space for direct transactions, the fair also addresses a common challenge faced by rural producers: limited access to markets and the dependence on intermediaries that can reduce their earnings.
Bringing Producers Closer to Their Customers
Participating enterprises from the province's seven municipalities will showcase a variety of products, including fresh agricultural produce, processed seafood, root crops, coconut-based goods, and other value-added products. The direct-selling setup allows producers to interact with customers without going through several layers of middlemen. This can provide participating entrepreneurs with greater opportunities to earn from their products while giving them a clearer understanding of what consumers are looking for. Customer reactions and feedback can also help producers identify ways to improve their products, packaging, pricing, and marketing strategies. For small-scale businesses, the fair provides an important opportunity to introduce their products to a broader audience and generate additional sales.
A Learning Ground for Growing Enterprises
The value of the trade fair extends beyond the transactions made during the three-day event. For local entrepreneurs, the marketplace also provides practical experience in managing and promoting a business. Producers have opportunities to practice presenting their products, managing inventory, responding to customer inquiries, and negotiating prices. These experiences can help strengthen the skills needed to operate and expand an enterprise. The event also encourages producers from different municipalities to interact and exchange ideas. Sharing techniques, resources, and experiences can open possibilities for partnerships and collective efforts that may help make local enterprises more sustainable and competitive.
Strengthening Dinagat's Local Economy
By encouraging consumers to purchase locally produced goods, the Agri-Fishery Trade Fair can help keep economic activity within the province. Spending on local products supports producers, workers, and other businesses connected to the agricultural and fishery sectors. The event also gives greater visibility to Dinagat Islands' farming and fishing industries, potentially helping local products gain attention from institutional buyers, investors, and other market partners. Held alongside the province's 20th founding anniversary, the trade fair highlights the capacity of Dinagat's communities to turn their agricultural and marine resources into livelihood and economic opportunities. More than a showcase of local products, the event reflects the potential of the province's farms, fisheries, and entrepreneurs to contribute to a stronger and more self-sustaining local economy.
