BISHOP FRANCISCO GAINZA TRADE FAIR SET FOR SEPTEMBER 2025

By Tere Esmeralda Medina

"We are incredibly excited to bring the BFGTF back to the forefront this year," said Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon at the press conference of the annual Bishop Francisco Gainza Trade Fair held last Monday, August 18, at the Atrium of Robinsons Place Naga -the venue for this year’s Trade Fair. 

“This trade fair is more than just a business event,” the prelate said. “It is a celebration of Bicol's rich culture and the ingenuity of our people. It is an opportunity for our local entrepreneurs to shine and for the public to discover the unique and high-quality products our region has to offer. Most especially, it is a tribute to Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia, who serves as our intercessor." This year’s theme is “Si Maria, Ina niato gabos, masasarigan sa pag-uswag”.

The press conference, which was well-attended by the local media, served as the official launch of the upcoming Trade Fair, which aims to promote local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs); and boost local economy. The annual Fair features a wide range of products, mostly food and handicrafts, from across the Bicol region and other parts of the country, providing a rich platform for entrepreneurs to connect with customers and create new business opportunities.

Ms. Kristina G. Daquioag, Manager of Robinsons Place Naga, emphasized the mall’s commitment to community engagement and economic development. “Robinsons Place Naga is thrilled to be the host venue for [this year’s] BFGTF. We are committed to providing a space that supports local talent and contributes to the vitality of the local economy.”

Organized yearly by Caritas Caceres, the BFGTF is also supported both by the local government of Camarines Sur and of Naga City. Key partner agencies such as the Department of Agriculture, represented by Lovella P. Guarin, Chief-RAFI, and the Department of Trade and Industry Camarines Sur, represented by Ms. Julie C. Mora, also expressed their full support for the annual Trade Fair. Ms. Mora, current Division Chief, highlighted the event's role in the government's efforts to foster entrepreneurship and sustainable economic growth in the Bicol region. They also underscored the Fair’s importance in supporting local farmers and agripreneurs.

Another key partner for this annual event is the Camarines Sur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CSCCI), represented by its president, Ms. Antonia G. Badong. In her message, Ms. Badong highlighted the role of the BFGTF in promoting local business. "We believe that by providing a robust venue for trade, we can help our MSMEs not only recover but thrive,” she exhorted.