The country’s longest-running provincial trade fair enters a new chapter. The Negros Trade Fair (NTF), now on its 39th year, is doing its historic debut at SM Aura Premier and SMX Aura Convention Center. Its theme is Himbon (Hiligaynon word meaning “to gather”). It brings the rich Negrense heritage to BGC for the first time in almost four decades. The fair will run from Sept. 25 to 28, 2025.
Food meets storytelling: Chef JJ Yulo of the Negros Trade Fair, joins Chefs Luis Locsin and Cara Davis in showcasing Negrense flavors at the ‘Himbon’ media launch.
This year’s edition is the largest Negros Trade Fair in history, with 139 vendors and partners across six categories: Food, Fashion, Gifts/Decor/Homestyle, Natural & Organic, Tourism, and Furniture & Furnishings. In nearly 2,500 sqm at SMX Aura, the expanded venue allows more entrepreneurs to showcase their products and connect with wider markets.
“We wanted to bring everyone together to remind us of the stories and values that unite us—our shared identity, community, and heritage. At the same time, the Negros Trade Fair opens new opportunities for our MSMEs,” said Mary Ann Colmenares, vice president of the Association of Negros Producers (ANP).
The Negros Trade Fair began in 1985 at Makati Carpark with just 30 vendors, spearheaded by wives of sugar planters after the collapse of the sugar industry. What started as a small gathering of fledgling cottage industries has evolved into a robust creative economy. From weaving and craftwork born out of necessity, Negrense artisans and MSMEs have grown into successful exporters and global suppliers, supported by the Association of Negros Producers (ANP) which was established in 1988.
Guests having an authentic taste of Negrense delicacies prepared by Chefs Luis Locsin and Cara Davis, from left: JJ San Juan of TheDiarist.ph, Ces Drilon, Lauren Golangco of Philippine Tatler; right photo: Anamarie Katigbak, Marimel Francisco of Artefino, Joan Taylor and Mia Borromeo of Tatler Travel
Fashion and lifestyle crafts from Negros
ANP president Christina Gaston with a one-of-a-kind accent piece—crafted from a Hacienda Crafts lamp
Sept. 23–28, 2025, the SMX Aura Convention Center becomes a vibrant marketplace and cultural showcase, featuring:
Authentic Negrense Flavors—heirloom recipes, artisanal delicacies, and modern culinary twists from Negros’ celebrated food producers.
Heritage fashion and design such as LAKAT sneakers made from pineapple fibers, handwoven garments by Vivo Handmade, and smocked dresses from Ellege Handcrafted now sold in France. Wearable art and lifestyle pieces blending heritage with contemporary style.
Tourism and Culture—experiences that spotlight Negros’ unique destinations and heritage traditions.
Artisan home and lifestyle pieces crafted from natural fibers like pandan, buri, and coconut, including exports by Hacienda Crafts and Madera Handicrafts
Organic and wellness products wellness and sustainable finds rooted in local ingenuity and sustainability.
Cultural showcases and live performances, experiences that spotlight Negros’ unique destinations and heritage traditions bringing the soul of Negros to the metro.
A story unveiled | Guests were treated to the official launch of the HIMBON video — a stylish, cinematic showcase capturing the soul of Negros, shot across iconic locations in Bacolod. From heritage to modernity, the film was directed by Luis Espiritu, with cinematography by Bliss Mabini, and model Kath Mc Omish styled by Mary Grace Caison.
1st photo, from left: Negros Trade Fair Team: Bing Gonzaga, Arlene Infante, Christina Gaston, Mary Ann Colmenares, Kate Singson and Mike Claparols with SM Supermalls president Steven Tan; Right photo: Mike Claparol, Arlene Infante, Nina Andrea L. Rigor (SM Hotels and Convention Corp.), Mary Ann Colmenares, Ces Drilon, Cathy Ileto (SM Retail), Chef Jj Yulo, Grace Mago (SM Retail), Pats Dy (SM Supermalls) and Marie Field Faith (Lifestyle Influencer).
1st photo, guests enjoying live acoustic music, Negrense bites, and a first look at this year’s ‘Himbon,’ from left: Denise Sta. Maria, Frannie Manotoc, Maritess Pineda (ArteFino), Penny Lopez Katigbak; right photo, from left, Mia Borromeo (Tatler Travel) Grace Magno (SM Retail), Maritess Pineda and Marimel Francisco (ArteFino).
“At SM, malls are more than spaces for shopping—they are platforms for culture, community, and connection,” said Steven Tan, president of SM Supermalls. “We are proud to partner with the ANP to give this iconic tradition a new home, and to ensure its stories continue to thrive for generations to come.”
