Puregold Launches First Store in Antique to Stimulate Local Economy and Employment

SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique — The first-ever Puregold store in Antique officially opened its doors on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone for the province's economic development and employment landscape.

Leading the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Antique Representative Antonio Agapito Legarda emphasized that the store's arrival transcends the addition of a new retail outlet in San Jose de Buenavista. He remarked, "This opening symbolizes the expanding growth of our local economy and presents a sustainable livelihood for our people."

Representative Legarda encouraged Puregold's management to prioritize hiring locally to generate more job opportunities for the residents of Antique. He also advocated for the establishment of an additional branch in the northern part of the province to further extend employment benefits.

In a message delivered on her behalf, Senator Loren Legarda expressed optimism regarding growing investment in Antique, stating that such developments are drawing residents back to the province due to the increasing availability of jobs.

During a subsequent interview, Puregold Vice President for Operations Antonio De los Santos shared that the company is committed to employing predominantly Antiqueños, facilitating job creation while maintaining quality service standards. He stated, "Our goal is to deliver security and care to our customers by employing local talents who understand the community."

De los Santos also invited sari-sari store owners and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to explore the "Tindahan ni Aling Puring" program hosted within the store. This initiative offers access to quality products, business mentorship, and a complimentary lifetime membership aimed at empowering local merchants.

Highlighting their ongoing expansion in the Panay region, De los Santos noted that the Antique outlet is Puregold's 15th store in the area and that they remain actively seeking new locations to serve and support communities.

The opening of Puregold in Antique is seen as a positive development toward strengthening local commerce and employment opportunities across the province.