BACOLOD CITY—The 38th Negros Trade Fair (NTF) has successfully launched in Makati City, showcasing the premier products of the Negros Island Region (NIR), an initiative that has consistently fueled economic growth and spotlighted the creativity of local entrepreneurs for over three decades. This year’s event, hosted from September 17 to 22 at the Glorietta 2 Activity Center, boasts 115 booths operated by the Association of Negros Producers (ANP) with significant support from both the Negros Occidental provincial government and the Department of Trade and Industry.
According to Philippines News Agency, this annual event, distinguished as the longest-running provincial trade fair in Metro Manila, opened with a ceremony attended by key figures including Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, NTF chairperson Michael Edward Claparols, and ANP president Arlene Infante. The fair, which last year featured 108 exhibitors, has expanded to include 115 exhibitors this year, with nine newcomers from Negros Oriental, illustrating a strengthened unity within the NIR. Governor Lacson emphasized the fair’s role in enhancing economic growth, celebrating regional heritage, and maximizing the potential of the island’s agricultural and aquaculture sectors.
The NTF showcases a diverse array of products from six major sectors organized by the ANP, encompassing fashion, furniture, gifts, housewares, food, organic and natural products, and tourism. Noteworthy among the offerings are handicrafts crafted by former members of the New People’s Army who have been reintegrated through the province’s Balik Salig Program, in cooperation with the ANP and the Philippine Army.
Governor Lacson expressed his hopes that the NTF would inspire a shift towards locally-made products among Filipino consumers, thus bolstering local industries and promoting domestic tourism. He urged local producers to continue striving towards innovation, creativity, and excellence. The theme for this year’s fair, ‘Halad,’ translates to ‘offering’ in Hiligaynon, reflecting the spirit of generosity and unity that characterizes the Negrense community, as noted by Infante.
The opening ceremony was further graced by notable attendees including former President and now Pampanga Second District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, along with Makati City Mayor Abigail Binay. The event also paid tribute to the late Governor Daniel Lacson Jr., revered as the ‘Father of the Negros Trade Fair.’