TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — The Sandugo OTOP Trade Expo 2026 officially opened its doors at the Island City Mall Activity Center on July 14, bringing together more than 160 micro, small, and medium enterprises from across the Philippines. The six‑day event, running until July 19, serves as a vibrant celebration of Filipino craftsmanship, food, and design, perfectly timed to coincide with the annual Sandugo Festival and to draw both local shoppers and visiting tourists.
A Grand Showcase of Local Pride
The opening ceremony drew a distinguished gathering of provincial and trade leaders. DTI Acting Regional Director Esperanza T.L. Melgar, Governor Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado, and Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Censoria C. Yap joined the ribbon‑cutting, signaling strong government backing for the island’s entrepreneurs. Their presence underscored the shared goal of transforming homegrown talent into sustainable livelihoods.
A performance by the acclaimed Koro Seraphim added a distinctly Boholano touch to the program, filling the mall atrium with harmony before guests toured the exhibit hall. The expo has long been a cornerstone of the Sandugo Festival, bridging the historic blood compact’s message of unity with modern economic opportunity. For visitors, it is a chance to witness the creative pulse of the province under one roof.
A Feast for the Senses
Wandering through the booths, guests encounter a rich tapestry of flavors and textures. Artisanal food producers offer everything from the region’s famous peanut kisses and purple yam delicacies to velvety tablea chocolate, inviting travelers to taste Bohol’s culinary heritage. Coffee and cacao enthusiasts can sample freshly roasted beans and learn about the island’s growing reputation as a specialty producer.
Beyond edible treats, the expo brims with handcrafted fashion accessories, woven baskets, and elegant home décor. Each item tells a story of skilled hands and local materials, from raffia and buri to sustainably sourced wood. Shoppers seeking unique, meaningful souvenirs will find an abundance of choices that carry the authentic spirit of Filipino artistry. The variety ensures that every visitor—whether a casual browser or a serious buyer—leaves with something special.
A Must‑Visit for Sandugo Festival Goers
Admission to the expo is completely free, making it an easy and rewarding addition to any Sandugo itinerary. The Island City Mall location provides a cool, comfortable escape from the tropical heat, with ample dining and entertainment options nearby. Families, tour groups, and solo travelers alike can spend hours exploring the displays and interacting with the passionate makers behind the products.
The expo runs daily through July 19, offering a full week of discovery. Tourism officials see the event as a powerful magnet for domestic travelers who are increasingly seeking experiential, community‑based activities. By connecting visitors directly with MSMEs, the expo not only boosts sales but also deepens cultural appreciation, turning a simple shopping trip into a meaningful exchange between guest and artisan.
