Pangasinan MSMEs Expect Boost in Sales at Annual Christmas Bazaar

Pangasinan, around 60 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are anticipating a surge in income with the opening of the annual Christmas bazaar at the Provincial Capital beach park on Friday. This event, showcasing various items and food products, attracts both residents and tourists, providing a significant business opportunity for local vendors.

According to Philippines News Agency, a vendor at the bazaar, her income notably increases during the bazaar’s duration. For two years, she has been participating in the event, finding it profitable, particularly with her light-up children’s toys, which are a hit among buyers. Bernardino normally sells toys along Lingayen Beach on regular days.

Sally Dapuyen, another vendor who has been part of the bazaar since 2012, shared that her food stall, especially the Vigan empanada, draws a considerable number of customers. Despite not being a traditional product of Pangasinan, the empanada is her top seller.

The bazaar offers more than just a shopping experience; it serves as a hub for entertainment and family bonding. Maria Luisa Elduayan, the head of the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office, emphasized that the bazaar is not only a commercial venue but also a place for guests to enjoy themselves and spend quality time with family and friends.

Elduayan highlighted that Christmas is a significant and extended celebration in the Philippines, and the bazaar aims to enhance this festive spirit while also supporting the livelihood of local entrepreneurs. The bazaar is open from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily, allowing visitors to enjoy the sunset, sea breeze, and carnival rides until January 15 of the following year.

Additionally, the Christmas Village, opening on December 1, will be another attraction at the bazaar, featuring local bands and performers. To ensure the safety and well-being of the public, an incident command post has been established, manned by personnel from the Philippine National Police, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and Provincial Health Office, among others.

The annual Christmas bazaar in Pangasinan thus not only boosts the local economy by supporting MSMEs but also provides a festive and safe environment for community engagement and celebration.