MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – A landmark moment in cultural preservation and digital innovation unfolded on March 27, 2026, with the official launch of the 7 Tribes Museum Shops, a pioneering digital platform, at the People’s Hall, New City Hall, in Brgy. Casisang

Spearheaded by the City Government of Malaybalay through the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (LEDIPO), under Romeo R. Lapeciros Jr., the initiative traces its origins to the Lunsod Lunsad Project proposal submitted in 2024. With funding support from the Department of Trade and Industry, the vision of a vibrant digital marketplace was brought to life.

In a statement, LEDIPO said the platform transforms the rich heritage of Malaybalay’s seven indigenous tribes into a dynamic online space, allowing Indigenous Peoples and local entrepreneurs to showcase and sell authentic, handcrafted products to a broader audience. More than a marketplace, it is a canvas for cultural storytelling—empowering artisans and preserving traditions for generations to come.

City Mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran led the program’s launch, accompanied by key officials who lauded the platform as a driver of inclusive economic growth. Board Member-IPMR Renato Sumbongan delivered a heartfelt message on behalf of the Indigenous communities, emphasizing the platform’s role in sustaining livelihoods while honoring cultural identity.

A centerpiece of the event was the live unveiling of the platform, where participants experienced firsthand how technology bridges artisans with potential buyers—from browsing to completing actual purchases. The collaboration with DVTech ensured the platform’s seamless development, including capacity-building training and onboarding of pioneering IP and local merchants.

The initial cohort of merchants already showcases a diverse range of locally made goods, reflecting the ingenuity, artistry, and cultural richness of Malaybalay. As the platform opens its virtual doors, the City Government encourages more artisans and entrepreneurs to join, amplifying the marketplace’s reach and impact.

More than commerce, the 7 Tribes Museum Shops stands as a symbol of innovation meeting tradition—an inclusive bridge where culture, creativity, and technology converge to open new opportunities for the people of Malaybalay City. (melbmadera)