OTOP Benchmarking in Thailand - Why did this mission of twelve (12) representing local government units, industry chambers and the Department of Trade and Industry based in Caraga, OTOP stakeholders all visit Thailand last March 30 to April 3, 2009? Thailand, with Japan, as pioneers of the OTOP concept, has served as model to the now moderately thriving OTOP Philippines Program. CARAGA, for me, sees that fresh insights from the masters would help sustain the gains achieved these past from years in the countryside specially at this time of global economic difficulties.