The Bulawan Trade Fair is now in full swing at SM City Bacolod, welcoming shoppers, entrepreneurs, and advocates of local craftsmanship to a vibrant celebration of Negrense creativity, innovation, and enterprise. Building on the strong momentum of its opening day, the three-day event continues to showcase proudly local products and the inspiring stories behind the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) of Negros Occidental.

More than just a marketplace, the fair serves as a platform for local businesses to connect with a wider audience while highlighting the rich culture, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit of the region. With its diverse selection of products and meaningful community stories, the Bulawan Trade Fair is proving to be one of the must-visit events of the weekend.

SM Supermalls and the Association of Negros Producers (ANP) formally open the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM City Bacolod, celebrating Negrense creativity, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship while creating greater opportunities for local MSMEs to thrive. L-R: Brigadier General Ted Dumosmog Commanding Officer 303rd Brigade; Gov. Eugenio “Bong” Lacson; Mary Ann Colmenares, 40th Negros Trade Fair Chairperson; May Castro, Public Relations Manager of SM City Bacolod; and Lynna Joy B. Cardinal, DTI Negros Occidental Provincial Director.

Organized in partnership with the Association of Negros Producers (ANP), the same organization behind the highly successful Negros Trade Fair at SM Aura last year, the Bulawan Trade Fair serves as both a celebration of creativity and a gateway for MSMEs to connect with wider national opportunities through SM Supermalls’ expansive retail network.

Here are five reasons why shoppers are loving the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM Bacolod:

1. It’s where Negrense craftsmanship meets modern innovation

Shoppers are especially flocking to the fair for highly sought-after Negrense delicacies, handcrafted home décor, artisanal fashion accessories, woven products, natural crafts, and locally made food favorites that showcase the distinct creativity and craftsmanship of Negros Occidental.

Proudly Negrense delicacies, artisanal creations, and handcrafted products take center stage at the Bulawan Trade Fair, showcasing the innovation and creativity of local MSMEs.

Visitors can also discover original and never-before-seen product concepts featured in SIBOL: The 33rd Bulawan Awards, 4th Pilak Awards, and 3rd ANP-PGNO Balik Salig Design Competition—a prestigious platform where new products and creative concepts are introduced, judged, and recognized for excellence and innovation.

The Bulawan Trade fair serves as a platform for Negrense artisans and entrepreneurs to champion their culture and distinct creative palates to a wider market of customers through SM Supermalls

“People now appreciate products with authentic stories and craftsmanship,” shared Eva Si of ChiEvs Stones and Crystals. “The Bulawan Trade Fair allows us to proudly showcase Negrense creativity to more customers and new markets.”products and creative concepts are introduced, judged, and recognized for excellence and innovation.

2. It’s a major boost for local and next generation Filipino MSMEs

As part of SM Supermalls’ continuing SM for MSMEs advocacy, the event provides entrepreneurs with greater visibility, stronger customer engagement, and opportunities to scale beyond their local communities. “SM Supermalls continues to open meaningful opportunities for MSMEs across the country,” said Joaquin San Agustin. “Through events like the Bulawan Trade Fair, we help local businesses connect with more customers, strengthen their brands, and become part of a larger movement that champions Filipino entrepreneurship.”

Local artisans proudly showcase their latest creations as guests flock to the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM City Bacolod.

3. It’s where future Negrense brands are discovered

SIBOL: The 33rd Bulawan Awards, 4th Pilak Awards, and 3rd ANP-PGNO Balik Salig Design Competition serves as a preview leading toward the milestone 40th Negros Trade Fair happening later this year in Manila. The competitions introduce new products and concepts to the market, where entries are judged based on innovation, craftsmanship, and design excellence before potentially being launched commercially after the judging on May 29.

Winning products often gain wider exposure through the Negros Trade Fair, including previous standouts such as Chorizo Hamonado and Recado in Chili Oil, which eventually became part of the Manila showcase.

The Bulawan Awards recognize products from ANP members and, this year, also welcome non-ANP participants under an Open Category—expanding opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs and creators across Negros Occidental.

Negrense entrepreneurs connect with wider audiences through SM Supermalls’ MSME platform, transforming local craftsmanship into growing business opportunities.

Meanwhile, the Pilak Awards highlight products developed by MSMEs supported by the Negros Occidental Technology and Livelihood Development Center (TLDC) under the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental, which empowers MSMEs, farmers, and marginalized communities through livelihood development, skills training, and enterprise support.

The ANP-PGNO Balik Salig Design Competition shines a spotlight on former conflict area communities, using creativity and weaving as tools for empowerment, peace-building, and sustainable livelihood generation. Through handcrafted products and cultural storytelling, participating communities showcase resilience, heritage, and hope.

For over four decades, ANP has championed Negrense entrepreneurship, design innovation, and craftsmanship by creating platforms that help local businesses grow and thrive. “The overwhelming support during opening day reflects the growing appreciation for proudly local products and Negrense talent,” shared Mary Ann Colmenares, 40th Negros Trade Fair Chairperson. “Through our partnership with SM Supermalls, we are able to give our artisans and MSMEs a stronger platform to reach wider audiences.”

4. Visitors can experience more than just shopping

Beyond the exhibits, guests can immerse themselves in a dynamic lineup of creative workshops, industry meetups, talks, runway presentations, and live product judging sessions that celebrate the intersection of culture, creativity, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.

Among the activities happening throughout the fair are macrame workshops, women-led art sessions, design talks, and fashion presentations featuring local arts and crafts. “It’s inspiring to see people not just buying products but also wanting to learn the stories and processes behind them,” shared CJ Jimenez of Vaca Japonesa. “That connection makes events like this very meaningful for makers like us.”

The Bulawan Trade Fair transforms SM City Bacolod into a vibrant marketplace showcasing the best of Negrense artistry and innovation.

5. Every purchase supports local communities

Every handcrafted product purchased at the fair directly supports local artisans, community-based enterprises, and livelihood programs across Negros Occidental. The event also features products from communities supported through the Balik Salig Awards, a collaborative initiative that empowers former conflict-affected communities through weaving, craftsmanship, and sustainable livelihoods.

Products developed by MSMEs supported by the Negros Occidental Technology and Livelihood Development Center (TLDC) highlight the power of livelihood development, creativity, and local enterprise.

By supporting local makers, shoppers become part of a larger movement that helps preserve culture, uplift communities, and strengthen Filipino entrepreneurship. The Bulawan Trade Fair and SIBOL Design Competition at SM City Bacolod continue to celebrate Negrense creativity, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment—while opening doors for local MSMEs to grow from regional artisans into nationally recognized brands.

Amid the current energy state of emergency and rising electricity demand during the summer months, SM Supermalls is strengthening its energy efficiency measures to ensure uninterrupted service for customers and surrounding communities, while maintaining smooth and sustainable mall operations.

SM Group operates the country’s largest rooftop solar panel network nationwide among property developers. Its investment in renewable energy started in 2014 with the very first installation of solar panels in SM North EDSA—long before government mandates on sustainability and the current pressures on alternative sources of power amid the energy crisis. With over 200,000 panels installed across 59 mall properties, covering 65 hectares, this expansive system powers SM’s most-loved malls through a hybrid energy strategy, helping them run more efficiently and sustainably.

Impact to Communities

Collectively, these panels generate 106 MWp of solar power, meeting over 50% of the mall operator’s electricity needs and helping ensure stable operations—from lighting to elevators. By integrating solar energy, SM reduces costs, improves efficiency, and delivers a more reliable, comfortable experience for tenants and shoppers.

This hybrid energy strategy, paired with its adjusted mall operating hours reduces SM’s reliance on the national grid, helping ease pressure on the overall energy supply and free up capacity for households, schools, hospitals, offices, and essential services, in its surrounding communities particularly during peak hours.

SM’s reinforced energy efficiency thrust amid the energy crisis is its latest effort in pursuit of transformative sustainability, action that results in impactful, tangible value to customers and its surrounding communities.

SM Supermalls continues to elevate its purpose-driven initiatives on the global stage after securing two Silver Awards at the prestigious ICSC MAXI Awards, one of the world’s leading recognitions for excellence in marketing and innovation within the retail and shopping industry.

The ICSC MAXI Awards honored two standout campaigns: “Art From All: Turning Community Action into Public Art” and “The SM Green Movement: Sustaining Communities Through Responsible Design,” both reflecting SM’s commitment to creativity, sustainability, and community impact.

SM Supermalls’ Art From All initiative was recognized for transforming sustainability into an immersive and participatory mall experience.

Launched in May 2025, the initiative invited shoppers to donate plastic waste and witness it transformed into large-scale cultural art installations inside the mall. Instead of simply raising awareness, Art From All made sustainability interactive and visible by integrating the experience directly into everyday mall foot traffic.

The initiative encouraged communities to actively engage in environmental action while showcasing how creativity and collaboration can breathe new life into discarded materials.

Meanwhile, SM Green Movement earned global recognition for its long-running sustainability framework focused on reducing the environmental impact of large-scale mall operations.

Designed to address growing pressures on water, energy, and waste systems in fast-growing urban communities, the initiative continues to scale sustainability programs across SM Supermalls properties while encouraging greater environmental awareness among the public.

Presented by the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), the MAXI Awards celebrate outstanding campaigns and programs from shopping centers and retail brands worldwide that create meaningful impact on communities, culture, and business.

More than celebrating marketing excellence, the recognition reflects SM Supermalls’ continued commitment to enriching everyday experiences, whether through championing Filipino creativity, fostering meaningful connections, or encouraging sustainable living.

Since the energy crisis, many Filipinos have been exploring alternative modes of transport and rediscovering the benefits of cycling—whether for daily commutes, quick errands, or weekend leisure rides. All for cyclists across the country, SM is making it sustainable to choose two wheels over four at their most-loved SM Supermalls.

Designed with convenience in mind, many SM malls feature bike-friendly infrastructure and facilities that support riders who prefer a greener way to travel. From safe, dedicated bike lanes and accessible bike parking areas to convenient entrances and cyclist-friendly amenities, SM continues to create welcoming spaces for those who are making cycling part of their everyday routine.

Cyclists gather at SM City Olongapo Central as SM reinforces its commitment to making malls more welcoming and accessible to bike communities.

Cyclists arrive at SM Seaside City Cebu as SM continues to design mall spaces that support sustainable transport and active mobility.

“At SM Supermalls, cyclists can also easily stop by to park their bikes, enjoy a meal, run errands, or meet friends before heading back on the road. Whether it’s a quick stop during a weekday commute or a longer visit during a weekend ride, SM malls provide a convenient hub for riders looking to recharge and relax,” Mina Kahn, SM Division Head and Assistant Vice President for Transportation Management. “All SM malls are equipped with bike facilities both indoor and outdoor, with a total of 823 bike parking areas and over 6,400 slots. There is also a total of 92 bike repair stations available across all SM locations, in case of assistance needed.”

Dedicated bicycle parking at SM supports cyclists with safe, convenient facilities that encourage greener modes of transport.

Bike-friendly features at SM make cycling a more practical and convenient option for everyday mall visits.

Empowering Biking Communities

For commuters, cycling can be both a practical and low-cost solution to navigating traffic. It promotes a healthier lifestyle while reducing carbon emissions—making it a sustainable choice for urban mobility.

That is why on top of in-mall features and facilities for cyclists, SM Supermalls also hosts biking activities that further encourage and empower cycling communities while serving as platforms for connection and engagement.

To celebrate World Bicycle Day, SM Supermalls will organize its annual Pedal Power event on June 6 across its nationwide network of most-loved Supermalls. The cycling event assembles and supports cycling communities through community bike rides and bike clinics that aim to build camaraderie and deeper appreciation for active mobility. This year, The Podium will also be hosting a special cycling learning activity through SM Cares’ Book Nook.

As part of the SM Green Movement, SM continues to champion active mobility in support of its broader commitment to building spaces that are accessible, sustainable, empowering, and inclusive for the communities it serves.

Through SM Pedal Power, participating malls across the country are helping make everyday mobility more sustainable and community friendly. These include SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, SM Center Antipolo Downtown, SM City San Lazaro, SM City Clark, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Rosario, SM City Lucena, SM Seaside City Cebu, and The Podium.

For more than two decades, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) has been championing responsible resource management through water circularity initiatives across its nationwide network of SM Supermalls. Since the late 1990s, the company has continuously invested in water conservation programs designed to promote sustainability and support the responsible use of one of the country's most vital resources.

At the heart of these efforts are innovative water management systems integrated into mall operations. These solutions help reduce water consumption, minimize wastage, and lessen reliance on the national water supply. By maximizing efficiency and reusing resources whenever possible, SM Malls continue to create long-term value while helping address the growing challenges of water security in an increasingly unpredictable environment.

Macro to Micro: SM’s approach to water conservation

Across the Philippines, more Filipinos are embracing healthier and more active lifestyles, finding a home for their passions at SM Supermalls. Through SM Active Hub, runners, pickleball enthusiasts, skaters, bowlers, cyclists, fitness buffs, and aspiring athletes have gained access to spaces where they can train, compete, discover new sports, and build meaningful connections with fellow enthusiasts. What was once a place primarily for shopping has evolved into one of the country's largest and most accessible active lifestyle communities.

Between April and June, SM Supermalls further strengthened this commitment by hosting more than 3,500 sports and fitness-related events nationwide. From beginner-friendly clinics and grassroots development programs to competitive tournaments and large-scale sports activations, these initiatives continue to make sports more accessible to people of all ages and skill levels. By creating opportunities for participation and engagement, SM is helping inspire a culture of wellness, movement, and community among Filipinos.

Where Winning Begins

The success of SM Supermalls' sports ecosystem is built on a simple belief: every athlete deserves a place to start. Through sports programs, tournaments, fitness activities, and community events across its malls nationwide, millions of Filipinos have discovered new passions, developed their skills, and embraced more active lifestyles, helping build one of the country's largest sports communities.

 From the ice rink to the bowling lane and archery range, these programs inspire beginners to take their first steps in sport while nurturing the discipline, focus, and determination needed to grow.

"Every champion starts somewhere, and for many young Filipinos, that journey begins with access, opportunity, and the confidence to try," said Joseph Francis V. Silva, Senior Assistant Vice President for Operations of SM Sports & Leisure Centers.

 

A Nationwide Active Lifestyle Movement

The success of these programs reflects SM Supermalls' vision of making sports more accessible to Filipinos. By transforming its mall spaces into venues for sports, wellness, and recreation, SM continues to inspire more people to stay active and engaged.

"Sports have the unique ability to bring people together, inspire healthier lifestyles, and build stronger communities," said Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls. "Through SM Active Hub, we're transforming our malls into spaces where people don't just shop or dine—they move, compete, learn, and connect."