The Department of Agriculture in the Caraga Region (DA-13) kicked off the Agribusiness Support for Promotion and Investment in Regional Exposition (ASPIRE) Trade Fair and Exhibit on Thursday.

The four-day event, held in Butuan City, is aimed at strengthening market development support for farmers, fisherfolk, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

ASPIRE 2025 brings together 119 organizations from across Caraga’s five provinces, showcasing locally produced farm products through individual booths.

“This four-day activity will not only promote the local products of our farmers and MSMEs but also enhance their market development support services,” said Lynn Pareñas, chief of DA-13’s Agribusiness Marketing and Assistance Division (AMAD), during the opening ceremony.

The event is spearheaded by AMAD with support from the Department of Trade and Industry, the Philippine Coconut Authority, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and the Agricultural Training Institute.

ASPIRE 2025 is designed to promote regional priority commodities, build agribusiness investment opportunities, and foster partnerships between government agencies and the private sector.

Among the exhibitors is the San Nicolas Development Cooperative (SANIDECO) from Tagbina, Surigao del Sur, which specializes in coffee production.

“We are looking to connect with buyers from different parts of the Caraga Region and get some deals with business groups through this activity,” said SANIDECO board member Anecita Sumasal in an interview at the sidelines of the event. The cooperative’s booth features a variety of products, including coffee mix, coffee jam, ground coffee, and vinegar.

The exposition also includes seminars and product presentation orientations to help participants optimize market opportunities.

A “National Agency Day” is also scheduled to facilitate linkages between exhibitors and various government agencies. (PNA)