The Negros Trade Fair (NTF), which showcases the best products of the Negros Island Region (NIR), continues to drive economic growth and celebrate Negrense innovation and creativity for 38 years now.

Considered the longest-running provincial trade fair in Metro Manila, this year’s edition, which runs from Sept. 17 to 22, features 115 booths of members of the Association of Negros Producers (ANP), with support from the Negros Occidental provincial government and the Department of Trade and Industry.

On Wednesday, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, with NTF chairperson Michael Edward Claparols and ANP president Arlene Infante, led the opening and blessing of the booths at the Glorietta 2 Activity Center in Makati City.

“Last year, the fair had 108 exhibitors. This year, we have grown even larger with 115 exhibitors, including nine from Negros Oriental, highlighting the growing unity of the NIR,” the governor said.

He noted that “through these efforts, we continue to drive economic growth, celebrate our local heritage, and ensure that Negros Island’s agricultural and aquaculture products reach their fullest potential.”

Lacson said the NTF offers “diverse and innovative creations” from the six product sectors of the ANP, including fashion, furniture, gifts and housewares, food, organic and natural products, and tourism.

Among the products are the handicrafts made by former New People’s Army rebels assisted by the province under the Balik Salig Program in collaboration with the ANP and the Philippine Army.

The governor expressed hope that trade fairs such as the NTF will inspire Filipinos to shift their purchasing habits towards locally-made products, showing support for homegrown industries and encouraging domestic travel.

“To our local producers, I encourage you to continue your pursuit of innovation, creativity, and excellence,” he added.

The 38th NTF is themed “Halad,” which means offering in Hiligaynon, and embodies the spirit of generosity and unity that defines the Negrense community, Infante said.

The ANP, during the opening ceremony on Tuesday night, graced by former president, now Pampanga Second District Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and Makati City Mayor Abigail Binay, honored the late governor Daniel Lacson Jr., who is considered the “Father of the Negros Trade Fair.” (PNA)