Families preparing for the new school year found budget-friendly deals at the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Balik-Eskwela Diskwento Caravan, held at Plaza Mayor de Ciudad de Balanga.

The event brought together 67 entrepreneurs, retailers, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), offering discounted school supplies, uniforms, shoes, and other daily essentials. Of the total participants, 48 hailed from Bataan, with others coming from Marikina, Manila, Pampanga, and Nueva Ecija.

DTI Bataan Provincial Director Eileen Ocampo highlighted the caravan’s collaborative spirit, crediting its success to the active support of local government units, exhibitors, and the media. “What makes this special is that it has become more than just a DTI initiative—it’s now a shared program powered by bayanihan,” she said.

Exhibitors like Leticia Gesem, 68, of Balanga’s KAANIB Program, expressed gratitude for the income opportunities provided by the event. “Dati wala kaming trabaho. Pero dahil sa KAANIB at DTI, nagkakaroon kami ng kita, lalo na kaming mga kababaihan,” she shared.

Another participant, herbal product seller Romer Mendoza, praised the DTI’s continued support and called for more training and financial coaching opportunities.

The Diskwento Caravan not only offers affordable school essentials but also empowers local businesses—strengthening community resilience through inclusive economic activity.