By: Valerie Ann Dismaya
Eleven micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from Pangasinan showcased world-class products at the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) 2025 held in Pasay City from May 22 to 24.
Governor Ramon V. Guico III personally attended the event with department heads from the provincial government to show support for local entrepreneurs.
The MSMEs presented a wide range of processed food products including bangus, bagoong, peanut products, cow and caramel milk, and fruit juices.
Belma Carrera, owner of Eldica Seafood Processing, said joining IFEX gave them a platform to expand their market beyond local buyers.
“We already have a local market,” she shared, “but our goal now is to go international. This is one stepping stone toward that, so we’re really grateful to those who encouraged us to join IFEX.”
Project Abound, headed by Dr. Arlyn Grace Guico, continues to guide MSMEs in innovating unique products that meet global standards.
“We can absolutely do it,” Dr. Guico said. “In fact, some of our producers are already exporting. Angie Farm, for example, isn’t even selling locally, they’re exporting to Europe and other countries. We have a lot of skilled MSMEs here.”
The highlight for Pangasinan was when Hou Yang Food Corporation received the prestigious Katha Award from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for their Japanese-inspired bangus karaage, under the seafood category.
Governor Guico presented a plaque of recognition to the awardee, saying, “The provincial government of Pangasinan recognizes Hou Yang Food Corporation for winning the prestigious Katha Award for its bangus karaage product.”
The Katha Award honors creative and innovative food products that reflect local culture while meeting international standards.
The Pangasinan booth drew strong interest from international buyers and prominent entrepreneurs, including a visit from First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.
MSMEs expressed gratitude to the provincial government and DTI for their continued support in expanding their market reach.
“In trade fairs like this, we see more business-to-business talks and valuable connections,” Governor Guico said. “That’s why we keep insisting that our products must be world-class. It’s time to go beyond the ‘pwede na yan’ mindset and raise the standard of Pangasinan products, and even ourselves as human resources, to the global level.”
The participation of Pangasinan MSMEs in IFEX 2025 proves that with the right support and confidence, local products can stand out on the international stage.
