The OTOP Store, which started as a small hub for over 30 Small and Medium Enterprises at Ayala Capitol Centrale 3 years ago, has now expanded into a bigger lifestyle store featuring products and food that are #tatakNegrense.
The store which moved to a bigger space at the 2nd level of Ayala Malls, and is now called OTOP Lifestyle Store, was officially launched on Friday, May 31.
Lynna Joy Cardinal, the provincial director of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), highlighted the store’s transformation from the OTOP Provincial Trade Fair to OTOP Lifestyle. This evolution is managed by the Negros Export Industry Corporation (NEXCO) led by Maria Lily and Micah Rosquillo.
Originally featuring 36 exhibitors in 2021, the store now showcases products from 106 exhibitors, known as “OTOPreneurs,” in its third year. Cardinal praised the dedication and passion of the management team and the collaborative spirit among the OTOPreneurs.
“The OTOP store at the Ayala Mall Capitol is the first OTOP Hub situated in a mall in the Philippines,” Cardinal said.
She emphasized DTI’s commitment to the success of the OTOP Lifestyle, aiming to uplift MSMEs, create jobs, and drive economic growth in Negros Occidental.
Cardinal expressed optimism about inspiring Negrense OTOPreneurs to innovate and delight their customers.
The Ayala management recognized the store’s significance and expressed interest in establishing OTOP stores in all their malls nationwide, inspired by the Bacolod store’s success.
The launch event was attended by notable figures including Negros Occidental Board Member Rita Gatuslao, representing Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, Dr. Mae Llamas, Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Officer of Bacolod City, and Kabankalan City Mayor Benjie Miranda.
