The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is urging local government units (LGUs) in Antique to support their One Town, One Product (OTOP) by appropriating funds and establishing their Project Management Office (PMO).

“LGUs will be encouraged to identify their potential products and establish PMOs with staff,” DTI Antique officer-in-charge Mary Jade Gonzales said in an interview Friday, adding that she will visit the 18 LGUs in the province for their support.

She said the OTOP implementing rules and regulations (IRR) mandate the creation of PMOs that would advocate and promote potential products in their localities.

Gonzales said the DTI continues to assist LGUs with marketing during trade fairs and conducting training on packaging and labeling.

Meanwhile, the municipality of Bugasong identified the handloom weaving or “patadyong” as its OTOP.

Bagtason Loom Weavers Association president Mario Manzano said the LGU support is a “big help” in sustaining their industry.

The OTOP in other towns of the province are buri mats and boxes in Anini-y; veggie chips, veggie canton and batwan powder in Barbaza; and garments and wearable products in Belison. (PNA)