Gwen to LGUs, entrepreneurs: Surpass previous R' Cebu sales

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia challenged leaders of Cebu’s first district as well including the micro entrepreneurs, to surpass the success of last month’s R’ Cebu Expo featuring the products of the fourth district, in terms of sales.

“Total sales in the last R’ Cebu for three days reached P2.2 million. Can you beat that? Tulo rana ka adlaw and our products pwerteng baratoha. Challenge na sa first district,” Gov. Gwen said in her speech during the opening ceremonies of another R’ Cebu Expo on March 14.

This month's R’ Cebu Expo features products from Cebu's First District, which runs from March 14 to 16 at the Robinson’s Galleria Cebu in Cebu City.

The Capitol-initiated expo dubbed as “Summer na diri sa Uno Distrito," shiwcased products and delicacies from the cities of Talisay, Naga, and Carcar, as well as the municipalities of Minglanilla, San Fernando, and Sibonga.

The three-day expo aims to support and promote small and medium enterprises in Cebu by allowing them to display their products at the mall for free.

The governor was joined by her daughters Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco and Ako Bisaya Partylist second nominee Carissa Garcia, First District mayors and other officials.

Garcia-Frasco was impressed by the transformation and growth of the R’ Cebu, which she described as a testament to the growth of product quality and industry of the chosen entrepreneurs.

“Cebu is the gold standard for tourism in the country. We credit this to the strength of spirit of the Cebuanos and to the leader that has always managed to unite Cebu despite all of the trials, challenges that have come thus far,” said Garcia-Frasco. It was her first attendance to the event as tourism chief, though, she had been a permanent fixture at the expo during its earlier installments while she was still the mayor of the municipality of Liloan.

According to Sugbo News, the official Facebook page of the Provincial Government, said local businesses from various local government units in the district showcased their products, offering an impressive array of affordable goods.

Talisay City presented its world-renowned lechon, while Minglanilla displayed handmade bags and accessories as well as hopia, a local delicacy.

The City of Naga offered delicious delicacies and local products, San Fernando featured accessories and local wines, Carcar City brought its famous chicharon, tamarind and other delicacies, and Sibonga delighted visitors with its sumptuous treats.

The R’Cebu event is more than just a marketplace — it is a vital platform for local businesses to reach a wider audience, boost their sales, and gain exposure, Sugbo News reported.

Sugbo News added that with a mix of quality products at affordable prices, the event is expected to attract both locals and tourists, helping to further promote Cebu’s rich culture, crafts, and culinary offerings. — JG (FREEMAN)