BACOLOD City – Around 64 exhibitors from Negros Occidental, including producers and local government units (LGUs), showcase their top products in the 34th Negros Trade Fair (NTF), which officially opened at the Glorietta Activity Center in Makati City.
Themed “Timeless Traditions,” the country’s longest-running provincial trade event, highlights the province’s culture, art, tradition, history, and lifestyle, especially the Negrenses’ love for food and exquisite craftsmanship.
Michael Claparols, chair of the NTF 2019, said this year’s edition is a continuation of what has been done in the past, which is showcasing the best of Negrense products.
“It is blending the old and new and connecting the past and present. We want to highlight to the people in Manila the Negros spirit,” he added.
The annual trade fair was organized by the Association of Negros Producers (ANP), in collaboration with the provincial government of Negros Occidental and government agencies, such as the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Science and Technology.
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer on Tuesday led the “Arima” or ceremonial ringing of the bell to usher in the trade fair’s official opening on Wednesday.
They were joined by Negrense chefs including Margarita Fores and Don Angelo Colmenares during the cocktails that featured local cuisine.
Claparols said the exhibitors featured food, furniture, gifts, decors and housewares, and organics, among others.
He added that despite the smaller venue this year, the ANP remains optimistic it would rake in higher sales.
In 2018, participating enterprises generated total sales of P31.8 million during the five-day trade fair participated by 70 ANP-member and non-member producers.
“We also want to share with the people from Luzon our stories, our spirit,” Claparols said.
Lacson, meanwhile, lauded the organizers and exhibitors for the continued success of the trade fair.
“I am a believer of the Negrense talent and products, and I know that with proper opportunities and innovation, our products can compete both in the local and global markets,” he said.
“Our very rich tradition and history give our present products the character that sets (them) apart from the rest,” Lacson added.(With a report from PNA/PN)