YES, it is the 32nd edition of Negros Trade Fair (NTF) anchored on the theme “Food for Thought.” The “Arima!” will be on September 26 and the trade fair proper is set on September 27 until October 1. Selling and buying take place at Glorietta Activity Center in Makati.
The NTF is proudly the country’s longest-running provincial trade fair held annually in Metro Manila since 1985. (Silay City was one of the first LGUs [local government units] that extended support to this economic-tourism event.)
Since it began, the trade fair continues to provide the small and medium enterprises of Negros an affordable venue to showcase their individual ingenuity and a platform for possible export trade.
Every year, the event shows of the shopping bazaar showcases the products from different Negrosanon exhibiters. Products ranging from food (natural and organic), fashion accessories and garments, furniture and furnishings, gifts décor and house wares and tourism are all presented.
The event is highly successful with almost 1,500 AB+ international, “balikbayans,” and local visitors per day. Now on its 32nd year, the event continues to highlight the best of Negros’ artisanal products, attractions, and personalities.
Why is the theme “Food for Thought”? Food is something that nourishes, sustains, or supplies. It is not just the food for the body… or for the economy. It is also food for thought… something that improves the mind… or you could be thinking what food is the best. Negros not only offers edible delicacies, but is filled with various products and creations that nourish the heart, sustain creativity, and supply livelihood to our fellow Filipinos.
What is the very first thing that comes to the mind when someone mentions “Negros”? From our mouth-watering food to our artisanal products, they’re all a “Feast for the Eyes!” The NTF celebrates the dynamic partnerships formed over the years among the ANP (Association of Negros Producers), the Provincial Government of Negros, non-profit organizations, business sector, sponsors, and media partners as we share a common goal.
“Promote the province and strengthen the small and medium-sized enterprises from Negros.” Through these partnerships, the NTF will offer exciting events and special features to give you the best “foodie” experience. There is no better way to experience the soul of a destination than through its food.
When you taste the various treats and cuisines that are uniquely “Negros,” you also take a bite of the heritage, history, and stories of the Negrosanons. (That includes my hometown Silay, “ang Banwa sang Dulce”) Our food not only feeds the stomach, but it also feeds the soul.
“Arima!” is on September 26 (around 6 p.m. Tuesday). “Arima” refers to the gathering of hacienda workers (around 6 a.m.) in front of the “encargado” (overseer) before the start of work. The “encargado” assigns the work to the laborers… plowing, planting, harvesting, fertilizer application, weeding. This important time and event will be repeated as an opening ritual for the NTF.
It’s time! “Arimana!” The “arima” signifies the opening of the exhibition to give support to the Negrosanon entrepreneurs and lend prestige to it by their presence and endorsement. Set at the eve of the opening of the fair to the public, guests from the government (especially Negrosanons staying in Metro Manila), buyers, media, and industry partners take a special preview at the various products intricately made by Negrosanon manufacturers.
There is that “afternoon tea and food for thought.” We would like to invite our guests over for an intimate afternoon affair. Come and sample a soothing array of locally-produced tea or coffee paired with an assortment of delectable Negrosanon inspired finger foods and pastries.
September 27 (whole day) is Silay City Day. Meet Mayor Mark Golez, his friends, classmates and relatives in Manila for fun and surprises. You will have the taste of Silay and the chance to discover more investment opportunities and tourism potentials.
Negrosanon-inspired products take center stage with a target market: modern day duchesses and ladies. That would also include the wives of congressmen and ambassadors, Manila elites and executives, and movie-TV personalities. We expect smart housewives and their families to be there on time to buy what’s new and what’s best from Negros.
September 28 is also a special day. NTF tour is from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. St. Scholastica’s Manila Choir will have its special performance on stage with Silay heritage house as backdrop, the Maria Ledesma Golez Ancestral House. This will be followed by “High Tea Time.”
Negros Trade Fair proposes pockets of events to experience, explore, and avail on what the land of sweet surprises can offer. Know more about Negros. Be there.