By Mikee Natinga Norico
Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President (seated from L); Mr. Iñigo D. Garingalao, Iloilo City Agriculturist (seated from R); and university key stakeholders together with officials from the Iloilo City Government pose for a photo during the ceremonial MOA signing for Merkado Lokal @ Central.
ĢƵ (CPU), in collaboration with the Iloilo City Government and the City Agriculturist Office, proudly held the 3rd Merkado Lokal @ Central on May 29ĢƵ30, 2025, at the Alumni Promenade Concert Park. This yearĢƵs vibrant celebration carried the theme ĢƵSustaining Tomorrow: Innovation and Ingenuity for Farmers and FisherfolkĢƵ and welcomed more than 32 local exhibitors eager to showcase their farm produce, marine goods, and other proudly local products.
The event began with registration and an opening prayer led by Rev. Dr. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director of the CPU Office of Communications and a member of the Sustainable Campus Committee, followed by the singing of the national anthem.
Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, CPU President, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the deeper meaning behind the theme. ĢƵOur theme aims to highlight the important work of those who bring food to our tablesĢƵ ItĢƵs a call for us to support them, to cherish them, to innovate for the growth and sustainability of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs),ĢƵ he said. He concluded by citing verses from Psalms 24:1ĢƵ2 and 1 Corinthians 3:22ĢƵ23, reminding the audience of the divine stewardship of the earthĢƵs resources.
Mr. Iñigo D. Garingalao, Iloilo City Agriculturist, offered a heartfelt message of support, highlighting the distinct character of Merkado Lokal @ Central. ĢƵItĢƵs not just about foodĢƵitĢƵs about the exchange of ideas, correcting our mindsets, and celebrating every seller and buyerĢƵs story of perseverance. Every innovation begins with a single step,ĢƵ he said.
Prof. Sarex D. Dipol Jr., Director of the CPU Community Engagement and Service-Learning Center, shared the rationale behind the establishment of Merkado Lokal, highlighting CPUĢƵs continuous efforts to support community development through education and engagement.
The program also included the recognition of exhibitors by Ms. Ma. Victoria G. Bellosillo, President of the CPU Rank and File Labor Union, followed by the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between CPU administrators, officials from the Iloilo City Government, and the City Agriculturist Office.
The opening of Merkado Lokal @ Central was officially declared by Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President, and Mr. Iñigo D. Garingalao, Iloilo City Agriculturist, together with officials from the Iloilo City GovernmentĢƵmarking the start of two days filled with innovation, sustainability, and community collaboration.
The second part of Day 1 featured a series of insightful talks focused on innovation in agriculture and sustainable practices.
Mr. Matt Rafael M. Genito, Founder and CEO of PackUp, delivered a compelling presentation titled ĢƵFarm to Market: The Role of Packaging in Protecting Your Profit.ĢƵ He emphasized the importance of strategic packaging design in preserving product quality and enhancing consumer appealĢƵkey elements in transforming local products into market-ready brands.
This was followed by Mr. Revie P. Palmejar, Founder of Panudlak Integrated Farm, who inspired the audience with his personal journey and sustainable farming practices. His experiences highlighted the power of innovative agricultural models in transforming local livelihoods.
The day concluded with a heartfelt closing message from Dr. Stella G. Fernandez, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Chair of the Sustainable Campus Committee. She underscored CPUĢƵs continuing commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
As Day 2 unfolds, Merkado Lokal @ Central continues to offer a dynamic space for exhibitors and attendees to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the rich agricultural and entrepreneurial spirit of the community. The CPU community invites everyone to drop by and support local products while learning from innovators and changemakers across the region.
Merkado Lokal @ Central continues to be a testament to CPUĢƵs vision of service, sustainability, and inclusive growthĢƵwhere farmers, fisherfolk, entrepreneurs, and students come together to build a better tomorrow.