29/04/2026
๐ข๐ง๐ข๐ก ๐ฆ๐๐ข๐ช๐๐๐ฆ๐๐ฆ ๐๐ข๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐๐จ๐๐ง๐จ๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ก๐ ๐ ๐ฆ๐ ๐๐ ๐๐ก ๐๐๐ง๐๐๐ ๐๐ก ๐๐๐ฅ๐ ๐๐๐๐ฅ
OTON, Iloilo โ Local agriculture, entrepreneurship, and cultural heritage took center stage as the Agri Fair, Garden Show, and Plant Sale officially opened at Kogtong Cup on Tuesday, April 29, as part of the weeklong celebration of the Katagman Festival and the 454th Foundation Day of the Municipality of Oton.
Running until May 3, 2026, the fair brings together local producers, plant enthusiasts, and community enterprises in a vibrant showcase that highlights Otonโs thriving agricultural sector and the creativity of its homegrown businesses. The event serves as one of the festivalโs major attractions, drawing residents and visitors alike to explore locally made products, ornamental plants, fresh produce, and traditional woven crafts.
Among the key participants in this yearโs fair is the Oton Entrepreneurs Association (OEA), a group composed of various local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across the municipality. The association features entrepreneurs producing a wide range of high-quality food and non-food products, reflecting the growing innovation and resilience of Otonโs small business sector.
Displayed at the OEA booths are carefully crafted local delicacies, processed food items, wellness products, handmade crafts, and other proudly Oton-made goods that represent the municipalityโs commitment to strengthening community-based enterprises. Their presence in the fair underscores the vital role of MSMEs in driving local economic growth while preserving the distinct identity of Otonโs products.
Also taking part in the event is the Salngan Livelihood Multipurpose Cooperative, recognized as Otonโs flagship producer of hablon, the townโs traditional handwoven textile known for its intricate patterns and cultural significance. The cooperativeโs participation adds a strong cultural dimension to the fair, giving visitors an opportunity to appreciate the artistry behind one of Otonโs most treasured heritage industries.
The inclusion of hablon weaving alongside agricultural exhibits and local business products reflects the municipalityโs broader effort to connect agriculture, livelihood, culture, and tourism in a single celebration. By bringing these sectors together, the event not only supports local producers but also reinforces Otonโs identity as a community that values both tradition and enterprise.
Municipal officials said the fair forms part of the local governmentโs continuing initiative to create more platforms for farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs to market their products while encouraging residents to support locally made goods.
As the Katagman Festival continues, the Agri Fair, Garden Show, and Plant Sale stands as more than just a marketplaceโit serves as a celebration of Otonโs rich heritage, entrepreneurial spirit, and shared vision for sustainable community development.