Shop to change lives

MANILA, Philippines - Shop around the world without necessarily leaving the Philippines. And for every shopping you do, you help change many lives.

That’s what the 44th International Bazaar offers on Nov. 21 when the annual bazaar organized by the Department of Foreign Affairs, International Bazaar Foundation Inc., the Spouses of the Heads of Mission and the Diplomatic and Consular Corps opens it doors from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the PICC Forums 1, 2 and 3 in the CCP Complex.

Time for Christmas shopping: There are lots of unique items like these baskets at the 44 th International Bazaar on Nov. 21 at PICC Forums 1, 2 and 3, CCP complex.

This year, the International Bazaar will be participated in by 36 embassies, 10 consular missions, and 140 local concessionaires.

“The products of the embassies are coming in tax free. Local concessionaires underwent the selection process by the CITEM,” said IBF president Alice Tesoro-Guerrero.

At an exclusive international soiree held at the Forbes Park Pavilion in Makati City recently, the IBF showcased a preview of the array of exquisite products from around the world that would be sold at the International Bazaar this Sunday. Items displayed at the soiree included high-end clothing brands and leather goods from Italy, food products from Thailand, wooden dolls from Indonesia, ceramic plates from Japan, wines from New Zealand, interesting trinkets from South Africa, plates and jars from Pakistan, chorizos and tapas from Spain, handicrafts from Brunei, chocolates from Switzerland, placemats and coasters from the European Union.  

The much-awaited bazaar will help change lives as proceeds will be used for the organization’s social and charitable projects.

“The International Bazaar is more than showcasing the products of different countries and Philippine companies. Its mission is to provide distinctive contributions to various charity projects to help the needy, the sick, underprivileged children, victims of natural disasters, medical institutions, among others,” explained IBF chairperson Lovely Romulo.

She added IBF also aims to provide scholarship to deserving but poor students. It also promotes livelihood activities designed to improve the quality of life and alleviate poverty in poor communities.

“This year’s International Bazaar is going green. We’re using only eco-friendly bags at the duration of the event,” added Romulo.