Kwento Ni Toto: Trade Fair

2025/09/14

DTI and SM Supermalls Spotlight Philippine Coconut Industry at 2025 Trade Fair

Marco Polo Demo 9/14/2025 02:37:00 PM

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with the Philippine Coconut Authority, officially opened the 2025 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair held from August 28 to September 2 at SM Megamall. The event placed the spotlight on one of the nation’s most enduring and valuable agricultural treasures—the coconut.

MSMEs take the spotlight | Local entrepreneurs showcase coconut-based products proudly crafted by Filipino hands

Staged under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) as mandated by Republic Act No. 11524, the fair went beyond being a simple product showcase. It evolved into a coconut-driven movement that championed sustainability, highlighted innovation, and empowered the farmers who keep this vital industry thriving.

Visitors discovered a diverse lineup of food, wellness, and lifestyle products crafted by Filipino coconut farmers and MSMEs, proving how the humble coconut continues to create opportunities and transform communities nationwide.

Sustainability Meets Innovation

From organic health supplements to biodegradable household items, the fair highlighted eco-friendly innovations that show how coconuts are shaping a more sustainable future.

Innovation with purpose | Eco-friendly coconut products highlight sustainability and green living.

“With support from DTI and SM, we’re able to reach more Filipino consumers and let more people discover our products. Kimes Foods today holds patents in 11 countries and distributes abroad.” – Dr. Priscilla Kimes, Kimes Foods (Cebu)

“Simula pa 2011, kasali na kami rito at full support talaga ang DTI sa amin. At kapag sa SM po ang trade fair, malakas talaga ang benta,” said Randy Pineda, President of the Association of Bamboo and Coco Crafts of Tiwi (Albay).

SM’s Strong Commitment to MSMEs

As a partner, SM Supermalls reaffirmed its commitment to supporting MSMEs by providing platforms that elevate local industries, create economic opportunities, and champion proudly Filipino-made products.

“By bringing together coconut farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs under one roof, the COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair not only strengthens the coconut industry but also empowers the communities behind it. SM Supermalls is proud to be part of this mission,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls.

With over 220 exhibitors nationwide, the 2025 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair stands as a powerful testament to how government and private partnerships can drive inclusive growth, uplift Filipino farmers, and build a stronger future for MSMEs.

Crafted with care | Artisans present creative coconut handicrafts that blend tradition and modern design.

updates

Top 3 Highlights to Experience at HIMBON: The 39th Negros Trade Fair 2025

Marco Polo Demo 9/14/2025 07:30:00 AM

Culinary Spotlight on Negrense Chefs – Two young chefs from Negros dazzled the audience and took center stage at the media launch of Himbon: The 39th Negros Trade Fair last August 26, 2025. Their inventive and flavorful menu offered a glimpse of what Negrense cuisine can be—creative, world-class, and deeply rooted in pride of place.

Chef Cara Davis (Halong, Makati) – trained in Michelin-starred kitchens from New York to San Sebastián, she now fuses bold Asian flavors with her Mexican culinary background.

Think uni toast with foie gras and crab aligue pave — just some of the inventive dishes she crafted, alongside many other culinary creations.

Chef Luis Locsin (private dining star) – CIA-trained, with global stints from Jean Georges NYC to Bali, he now curates private dining. His charcuterie spread at the launch featured Negros blue cheese, Don Papa rum pâté. Proudly Negrense, globally trained.

Pâté en croute, and Casa del Formaggio Stracciatella, olive oil, and confit tomatoes

This year, the Negros Trade Fair makes its historic debut at SM Aura—and it’s bringing with it the flavors, fashion, and flair of Negrense heritage. Here are the main reasons of must-experiences for foodies, fashionistas, and lifestyle lovers you don’t want to miss:

#1 Heritage Weaves, Modern Fashion & Accessories

Handwoven Hablon, hand-smocked dresses, and chic tropical fibers reimagined for today’s wardrobe. Paired with striking local jewelry and artisanal accessories, these pieces prove heritage and modernity can walk the runway together.

#2 Handcrafted Home Finds

From pandan to bamboo to buri—Negrense artisans transform natural fibers into elegant accents for your home. Discover design-forward décor and furnishings that bring timeless Negros craftsmanship into modern living spaces.

#3 Artisan Sweet & Savory & Pasalubong

Stock up on flavors that define Negros: – From Mumshies’ delicacies to Virgie’s home-made mango tarts and pastries, plus savory favorites like the Ereneta-Manaloto’s bottled Chorizo de Bacolod and a lot more— Sweet or savory, these iconic bites are made for gifting—or for keeping all to yourself.

Experience More at HIMBON

Beyond shopping, HIMBON is a celebration of Negrense culture. Sip on Don Papa rum and locally crafted wines as live acoustic music fills the air, bringing the warmth of Negros hospitality right to the city. Let the fair inspire your next adventure with showcases of pristine beaches, heritage haciendas, and food tours—each one an invitation to experience Negros firsthand. And of course, every artisan booth and styled corner is a story waiting for your feed, so don’t forget to capture your #HimbonMoments along the way.

At its core, HIMBON means “to gather.” And this fair is exactly that—a gathering of food, fashion, and heritage that celebrates both tradition and modern creativity.

● Save the Date: Sept 23–28 | SMX Convention Center, SM Aura
● Taste. Shop. Celebrate. Experience Negros like never before.

About SM Supermalls MSMEs

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 88 malls nationwide—marks a new era of connecting communities and redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. MSMEs are everywhere in SM Supermalls. From pop-ups to trade fairs, they transform our malls into launchpads of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship—fueling energy, ideas, and everyday experiences. Be part of this success story—visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com to grow your business with SM today!