Cover The 40th Negros Trade Fair highlights products, crafts, brands and beloved spots found in the Negros Island region (Photo: courtesy of Negros Trade Fair)
The 40th Negros Trade Fair highlights products, crafts, brands and beloved spots found in the Negros Island region (Photo: courtesy of Negros Trade Fair)
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The Negros Trade Fair marks its 40th anniversary from September 22 to 27 at the SMX Convention Center in SM Aura, bringing together 178 vendors and creative producers under the theme “Bútlak”
Taking its name from the Hiligaynon word for the rising of the sun or blooming, Bútlak reflects the determination and resourcefulness that have driven Negrense entrepreneurs for four decades. Organised by the Association of Negros Producers (ANP), this year’s six-day event gathers artisans, food makers and designers from across Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental and Siquijor.
The origins of the Negros Trade Fair trace back 40 years to a gathering of 30 vendors at the Makati Carpark. Following the collapse of the sugar industry, sugar farm workers and local producers turned to food production, weaving, furniture making and local arts to supplement their livelihoods. That initial market established the groundwork for economic recovery and led to the creation of the ANP.
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Above At Cathedral: Philoppe on Rubyline top and Vida bottom; Ria on Rubyline top, Donata by Kate Singson bottom and ChiEvs earrings; shoes by Lakat (Photo: courtesy of Negros Trade Fair)
At Cathedral: Philoppe on Rubyline top and Vida bottom; Ria on Rubyline top, Donata by Kate Singson bottom and ChiEvs earrings; shoes by Lakat (Photo: courtesy of Negros Trade Fair)
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Mary Ann Colmenares, chairperson of the Negros Trade Fair, recalls the early days of the initiative: “During one of the early Negros Trade Fairs, the theme was Hope Shines in Negros. This is the mindset that has consistently guided us throughout the 40 years of the trade fair. The Negrenses have held on to the promise of a new day, and that God’s mercies are new every morning.”
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Above At SM Bacolod: Philippe on Ellege top, Tia Lacson bottom; Ria on Tilia dress and ChiEvs earrings; shoes by Lakat (Photo: courtesy of Negros Trade Fair)
At SM Bacolod: Philippe on Ellege top, Tia Lacson bottom; Ria on Tilia dress and ChiEvs earrings; shoes by Lakat (Photo: courtesy of Negros Trade Fair)
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Over the past four decades, the ANP has functioned as an incubator for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Christina Gaston, president of the ANP, explains the role of the organisation: “Our task is to find ways for brands to grow and to drive economic growth. While ANP is the incubator, the fair is the platform. The idea of Bútlak was anchored on how our entrepreneurs have bloomed over the years.”
For its 40th edition, the fair expands its reach beyond historical sugar estates and heritage homes to encompass the broader creative sectors across the integrated Negros Island region.
Above At Bar 21: Philippe on Ellege top; Ria on Camille Villanueva top and Koti earrings (Photo: courtesy of Negros Trade Fair)
At Bar 21: Philippe on Ellege top; Ria on Camille Villanueva top and Koti earrings (Photo: courtesy of Negros Trade Fair)
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Gaston adds that vendor selection remains rooted in supporting local economic growth: “We are interested in showcasing the brands that are from Negros; that have roots or linkages to Negros; or are helping communities or artisans in Negros.”
This year’s showcase features a total of 178 participating brands, including silk weavers from Aklan, craftspeople from Kanlaon, as well as regional tourism operators and real estate developments.
Above At New Government Center, Bacolod City: Philippe on Ellege top, Vida bottom; Ria on Ellege top and bottom (Photo: courtesy of Negros Trade Fair)
At New Government Center, Bacolod City: Philippe on Ellege top, Vida bottom; Ria on Ellege top and bottom (Photo: courtesy of Negros Trade Fair)
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The lifestyle and fashion section highlights pieces crafted from local materials such as abaca, bamboo, rattan, hablon, piña, and natural dyes. Fashion and accessory brands participating in the 40th edition include Camille Villanueva, StyleLoft, Pinas Sadya, Reveri by Ria Bolivar, Donata by Kate Singson, Ellege, Lakat and Hacienda Mar.
Sustainable home décor, furniture, and design remain a central feature of the event. Highlighted labels include Hacienda Crafts, Art Energy, Artisana, Noah, Madera Handicrafts and NVC Foundation, alongside works from regional artists and art galleries.
Above At Manami Spa: Ria on Rubyline wrap around, Ellege skirt (Photo: courtesy of Negros Trade Fair)
At Manami Spa: Ria on Rubyline wrap around, Ellege skirt (Photo: courtesy of Negros Trade Fair)
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Food continues to be a major highlight of the fair, celebrating the region’s standing as a slow food destination. Visitors can sample traditional delicacies and regional specialities from established dining spots and food producers, including Bob’s Cafe, 21 Restaurant, Bacolod Chicken House, El Ideal Bakery and Virgie’s Homemade Products, alongside new food concepts and artisanal products.
As the organisation looks towards future editions, both leaders emphasise the importance of supporting the next generation of makers.
“We are always looking ahead with hopes that the next generation will continue what was started four decades ago,” says Colmenares.
Above At Bob’s: Philippe on Tia Lacson top and bottom; Ria on Ellege top and bottom, Negros silk scarf (Photo: courtesy of Negros Trade Fair)
At Bob’s: Philippe on Tia Lacson top and bottom; Ria on Ellege top and bottom, Negros silk scarf (Photo: courtesy of Negros Trade Fair)
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Gaston adds: “Every year is different. Each generation brings with them evolution. We look forward to more opportunities to collaborate, creating linkages for developing more products, and growing as a community. Now that Negros Trade Fair is representing a united Negros Island and Siquijor, we are eager about defining what makes the region unique and truly special.”
Bútlak: The 40th Negros Trade Fair runs from September 22 to 27 at the SMX Convention Center, SM Aura, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Event updates and exhibitor information are available on Instagram via @thenegrostradefair.
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Franz writes about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas and is currently pursuing a master's degree in Art Studies at the University of the Philippines Diliman. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright. But above all this, this Aether main spends more time in Teyvat than anywhere else.
