Bacolod city: Three more local government units (LGUs) in Negros Occidental are set to open their own 'One Town, One Product' (OTOP) retail stores with the assistance of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). In northern Negros, Sagay City will launch its OTOP store on March 16, while Calatrava town is scheduled to open its store in the last week of April. Bacolod City plans to have its OTOP store operational by the end of April.
According to Philippines News Agency, DTI-Negros Occidental trade-industry development specialist Gabriel Advincula highlighted that the OTOP retail stores showcase locally made products, providing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with opportunities to access wider markets. Currently, there are six OTOP retail stores in Negros Occidental, including four LGU-based stores launched last year in Hinigaran, Kabankalan City, Sipalay City, and Cadiz City.
The province's inaugural OTOP store, launched in 2021, is hosted by the Association of Negros Producers (ANP) at its showroom on South Capitol Road in Bacolod City, featuring products from 63 MSMEs. Another store, OTOP Lifestyle, which displays products from over 100 local producers, is located inside the Ayala Malls Capitol Central in Bacolod City.
According to the DTI, these OTOP stores serve as platforms for innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurship, aiding local producers, artisans, farmers, and processors in bringing their products closer to consumers. Under the OTOP Program, MSMEs receive support in product development, branding, marketing assistance, and market access. The expanding network of OTOP stores highlights the culture, creativity, and craftsmanship of Negrense communities, ranging from traditional weaving and artisanal crafts to specialty food products and agricultural goods.