If you are looking for your next weekend food crawl, local fashion discovery, or artisanal home upgrade, you do not need to book a flight out of the metro. This September, the vibrant spirit, flavors, and craftsmanship of the Negros Island Region are landing right in BGC.
Running from September 22 to 27, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Aura, BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair marks a major milestone of championing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Bringing together 178 brands under one roof, this year’s anniversary edition offers an easy, immersive way to shop local, discover fresh trends, and taste the best of the region.
ANP President Christina Gaston opened the program by reflecting on the organization’s core mission: transforming creativity into enterprise. “For ANP, MSME development is about giving people the opportunity to discover what they can create, what they can become, and where their creativity can take them,” Gaston shared. “Over 40 years, we have seen small businesses grow into enterprises and local products reach markets once thought beyond their reach.”
Her sentiments were echoed by SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, who emphasized the power of platforms like the fair in bridging culture and economic opportunity. “Our role is to help open doors,” Tan said. Through the SM for MSMEsprogram, SM Supermalls continues its steadfast partnership with ANP, providing homegrown businesses with high-traffic marketplaces, greater visibility, and vital pathways for sustainable growth.
Guided by broadcast journalist Ces Drilon, guests at the launch enjoyed an initial taste of what awaits at the fair, anchored by prominent Negrense culinary personalities like JJ Yulo, Joel Torre, and Chef JP Anglo.
While world-famous chicken inasal put Negros on the culinary map, culinary heavyweights remind us that there is so much more to explore. As Basti Escalante of the Antonio’s Group noted, “Negrense food goes beyond inasal—there’s a lot more to discover.”
This year’s food curation blends comforting regional classics with fresh innovations from a rising generation of food entrepreneurs. Visitors can look forward to iconic names like Bob’s Café, 21 Restaurant, Chicken House, El Ideal, and Virgie’s Homemade Products, alongside exciting first-timers like Jinky’s Kitchen Empanaditas, MOKS Recipes Frozen Foods, Señorita de Bacolod, and heritage treats from Negros Oriental like Sans Rival Cakes & Pastries and Cocina Javellana.
For veteran actor and restaurateur Joel Torre (JT’s Manukan), the pride woven into the food is deeply personal: “I’m a proud Negrense. I’m very proud of Negros products.” Chef JP Anglo similarly attributes the fair’s longevity to continuous reinvention: “Life is always changing; it’s a constant evolution. And that’s why the Negros Trade Fair is thriving through the years—it’s because of that chase to perfection and love for craftsmanship.”
First-Time Finds and Creative Evolution
With 178 brands showcasing the best of the region, the 40th edition is a celebration of both enduring heritage and fresh perspectives.
Stephanie and Cristina Claparols of Lakat Sustainables describe the atmosphere as a family reunion. “To us, this really feels like a family gathering, and there’s a lot of new brands to discover, especially coming from the new generation. I think that’s the most exciting part of it.”
Shoppers looking to refresh their wardrobes and homes can explore a diverse array of categories:
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Fashion & Style: First-time labels like Tahaya, Humán Everyday, 17 Hacienda Mar, and StyleLoft join established favorites like Arête (handcrafted island accessories) and Ellege Handcrafted Fashion (intricate hand-smocking).
- Home, Art & Décor: Distinctive pieces crafted from abaca, rattan, bamboo, capiz, ceramics, and repurposed materials are featured by makers such as Hacienda Crafts, Tumandok Crafts Industries, Artisana Island Crafts, NVC Foundation, and first-timers like Lutak Art Sculptures Shop and Walls Gallery.
Looking back at four decades of community building, ANP Vice President Mary Anne Colmenares captured the poetic essence of the milestone theme. “Our roots are found in the traditions, skills, and stories handed down to us,” she shared. “Our blooms are the new ideas, new enterprises, and new generations emerging from those roots. After 40 years, Negros continues to bloom—and its brightest chapters are still ahead.”
