The 38th Negros Trade Fair promises an exciting array of activities and products that embody Negrense creativity, craftsmanship, and heritage.
The Association of Negros Producers (ANP) announced the 38th Negros Trade Fair, set to take place from September 17 to 22, 2024, at Glorietta 2 and Palm Drive Activity Center, Makati. As the country’s longest-running provincial trade fair, this year’s event promises to offer a unique blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing the best products from Negros Island under the theme “Halad,” a Hiligaynon word meaning “to offer, a dedication, a devotion, or a gift.”
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The Negros Trade Fair was born out of necessity during the economic downturn of the 1980s when the sugar industry in Negros Occidental faced a severe crisis. A group of fourteen women and one man came together to support local artisans and producers and this group was formalized into the Association of Negros Producers, Inc. (ANP), a non-stock, non-profit organization dedicated to uplifting the local economy.
The first Negros Trade Fair was organized in 1985 at the Makati Carpark, thanks to the efforts of the ANP, with support from Bea Zobel of Ayala Land and Daniel “Bitay” Lacson, Jr. of Negros Navigation, who facilitated the transport of goods from Bacolod to Manila at no cost. Despite challenges, including a typhoon that struck during the fair, the event was a success and laid the foundation for what would become this annual and much-awaited tradition. The fair has been showcasing the best of Negros Island’s culture, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship, solidifying its place as a vital marketing platform for Negrense products.
The endangered Slipper Orchid embodies the essence of this year’s theme, “Halad.” This delicate flower reflects the spirit of Negros Island—its rich culture, vibrant arts, exceptional talents, and pristine environment. Much like how this orchid requires dedicated preservation efforts, the traditional arts and skills of Negros Island, which form the backbone of its cultural heritage, demand attention and care as well.
The 38th Negros Trade Fair is committed to sustainability by nurturing traditional practices. By prioritizing sustainable products and engaging in outreach programs, they are aiming to build a future that honors both their environment and heritage. This year’s fair will feature 115 booths, showcasing a variety of products that reflect the creativity and craftsmanship of Negrense producers. Expect gifts, decor, house ware, furniture and furnishings, food, natural and organic products, as well as fashion and garments.
The 38th Negros Trade Fair will open with Arima on September 17, a welcome cocktail hosted by the Province of Negros Occidental. “Arima,” meaning the act of gathering before work starts in the fields, will feature top chefs from Negros preparing culinary creations using the island’s finest ingredients. The opening performance will be led by the “Babaylan Dancers” from Bago City and the “Bailes de Luces Dance Troupe” of La Castellana who won in the Dance Group of the World category at the World Championships of Performing Arts in California, USA.
Bacolod Night will be held on September 20, where Bacolod City will celebrate Bacolod Day, showcasing its arts and its famous Masskara Festival through various performances. On September 18, the Opening and Booth Blessing ceremony will be conducted by Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, Vice Governor Ferrer, ANP President Arlene Infante, and other distinguished guests, who will declare the 38th Negros Trade Fair officially open.
This year, the ANP highlighted its Balik-SALIG Awards and Competition, a collaboration with the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental to recognize excellence in the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA). The winners of the Balik-Salig Awards and Competition will be joining the 38th Negros Trade Fair, proudly showcasing their handmade creations.
The 37th Negros Trade Fair in 2023 was a resounding success, generating P47.6 million in sales and surpassing the previous year’s total of P33.4 million. The event featured 108 booths offering Negrense-made food products, crafts, fashion, and homestyle items.
From September 17 to 22, 2024, experience the rich cultural heritage and innovative products of Negros Island at the 38th Negros Trade Fair at Glorietta 2, Palm Drive Activity Center.
Photos courtesy of Negros Trade Fair.
