In celebration of innovation, craftsmanship, and local pride, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (BMDPO), in partnership with DTI Region 10, successfully conducted its third Buying Mission for 2025 during the Kahimunan Regional Trade Fair held from August 26 – 27, 2025, at the Ayala Centrio Mall, Cagayan de Oro City.

Held as part of the vibrant Higalaay Festival, this year’s fair embraced the theme “Northern Mindanao’s Creativity, Innovations, and Traditions.” The event gathered over 40 MSMEs across Northern Mindanao, proudly showcasing their best processed food, handicrafts, and wellness products – each piece reflecting the region’s heritage and entrepreneurial spirit.

Bridging the Gap Between MSMEs and Institutional Buyers 

Five institutional buyers based in Manila—The Vegan Grocer, Zarah Juan, Tesoros Philippine Handicrafts, Papa Kape, and OKADA Manila—were invited to meet and engage with local entrepreneurs. This initiative aimed to connect micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with sustainable market opportunities, focusing on product storytelling, design innovation, and brand consistency.

Through interactive sessions and one-on-one consultations, MSMEs gained valuable insights into market trends, product development, and buyer expectations. Several participants received direct feedback on how to improve packaging and strengthen their brand identity to compete in both local and international markets.

Inspiring Collaborations and Market Insights

The buying mission was marked by several meaningful encounters:

• OKADA Manila rekindled its partnership with a local stoneware pottery facility. A new prototype for OKADA’s hospitality line is already underway – proof that homegrown craftsmanship can meet world-class standards.
• Papa Kape owner shared how the mission reignited his entrepreneurial spirit, discovering innovative coffee-based products like sanitizers that he plans to integrate into his café’s offerings.
• The Vegan Grocer buyers praised the region’s promising product quality but emphasized the need for improved labeling and consistent branding, highlighting the power of storytelling behind every product.
• Designer Zarah Juan conducted a spontaneous design consultation with MSMEs, suggesting creative transformations such as turning indigenous dolls into bag charms—marrying cultural heritage with modern design. She also explored potential collaborations with abaca silk suppliers for her upcoming product lines.
• Tesoros Philippine Handicrafts expressed interest in locally made beef jerky for the travel retail market and discovered a promising basket supplier, though they noted the need to address logistics and shipping costs.

Sustaining Momentum Through Monitoring and Support

To ensure lasting results, BMDPO and DTI Cagayan de Oro continue to monitor sales leads, booked orders, and ongoing negotiations from the event. This follow-through helps MSMEs meet buyer requirements, maintain product quality, and scale up production effectively.

The 2025 Kahimunan Trade Fair Buying Mission not only strengthened business linkages but also underscored the creative potential and resilience of Northern Mindanao’s entrepreneurs. Through collaboration, design innovation, and shared advocacy for local excellence, the event reaffirmed DTI’s commitment to nurturing MSMEs and promoting Philippine products in the global market.