• CHERYL G. CRUZ
Nineteen micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and four associations, from Negros Occidental are showcasing the rich creativity, and cultural heritage of the province at the Manila FAME 2026, from Oct. 15-17, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
Department of Trade and Industry Negros Occidental director Lynna Joy Cardinal said a diverse range of handcrafted products and creative industries will be showcased by the 23 exhibitors from the province during the Manila FAME this year.
These include traditional weaving, shell crafts, sericulture, handwoven pandan products, basketry, woodcrafts, artisanal wearables, crochet creations, hand-smocked children’s dresses, and contemporary fashion with heritage-inspired designs, Cardinal said.
“Each product reflects the unique identity, artistry, and heritage of Negros Occidental,” she added as she thanked Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz II “for their continued support and confidence in our homegrown products and the potential of Negrense MSMEs to compete in international markets.”
Manila FAME is the country’s premier home decor, furniture and furnishings, fashion, holiday and gift sectors trade show, organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the export promotions arm of the DTI.
This year’s edition, on the theme “Bloom”, celebrates the flourishing of Filipino design through exceptional craftsmanship, innovative use of natural materials, and the creative vision of Philippine makers, the event organizer said.
Joining the trade show means bringing the best of Negrense products to the metro, highlighting the ingenuity, skills, and entrepreneurial spirit of local communities, Cardinal said.
The Tumandok Crafts Industries, one of the exhibitors, said in a post that each displayed piece started with local materials and skilled hands. “Now, they are arranged side by side: the Tagpi Collection, Dodoy the Carabao, and our Makol-inspired lamps. Together, they carry the textures and stories of Negros.” | CGC
