• CHERYL G. CRUZ
Thirty-eight micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from Bacolod City and Negros Occidental are showcasing their homegrown delicacies and innovative food products at the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines that opened May 21 at the World Trade Center in Metro Manila, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the province said.
“(The expo) highlights the creativity, quality, and excellence of Negrense entrepreneurs on the national stage,” the DTI Negros Occidental said in a statement, and noted that IFEX Philippines 2026, that will run until May 23, brings together flavors, stories, and opportunities from across the country, all in one place.
Of the 38 participating MSMEs, 18 are based in the highly-urbanized Bacolod, and the rest from Bago, Silay, Sagay, Cadiz, Victorias, Kabankalan, San Carlos, Murcia, Isabela, and Cauayan.
The expo, organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) – the export promotions arm of DTI – is the country’s biggest business-to-business and export-oriented international trade show for food, beverage, and ingredients.
The event gathers global buyers, exhibitors, and industry leaders to celebrate the strength of the Philippine food industry and its growing presence in the international market, the IFEX said.
The Capitol said the expo empowers Negrense MSMEs to showcase their excellence on the national stage. “Every visit, every purchase, and every show of support helps uplift our hardworking MSMEs and strengthens local communities across Negros Occidental.” | CGC
