The Philippines’ rich and ever-evolving food landscape takes center stage once again as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) rolls out the 2026 DTI–Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair (NFF), happening from April 8 to 12 at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.
Positioned as the country’s premier platform for Filipino food products, this year’s fair gathers over 335 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao — each bringing distinct regional flavors, culinary traditions, and innovative food concepts.
According to DTI Secretary Cristina Roque, the NFF is more than just a marketplace as it continues to serve as a vital space for enterprise development, allowing local businesses to scale, connect, and thrive in a competitive industry.
“This fair is proof that when provided a platform and the right support, Filipino MSMEs can succeed both locally and globally,” Cristina said during her speech at the event.
This was also lauded by DTI-Competitiveness and Innovation Group Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista.
“Together, this big fair is not just a marketplace. It is a platform where Filipino MSMEs are prepared for their position and are connected to grow. Through our business connectivity launch, we enable real conversations between our institutional buyers,” she noted.
Nylah added, “Ultimately, when MSMEs grow, communities grow, and when communities grow, then they should move forward.”
Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. also amplified the importance of the NFF in showing how Filipino food goes beyond taste by carrying identity, resilience, and creativity. He emphasized the people behind each product — including MSMEs, farmers, and entrepreneurs—whose journeys, struggles, and aspirations are embedded in what they sell.
“Every booth has a story, every bite carries a hometown, and every product proves that ingenuity is alive and thriving.”
Diverse food market
Among the highlights are food ventures led by former Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), who have transitioned into entrepreneurship. Their presence adds a compelling layer to the fair, showcasing how global exposure can translate into fresh, market-ready food concepts while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities back home.
This year also shines the spotlight on the coconut industry, one of the Philippines’ priority agricultural sectors. In line with the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), participating MSMEs present a diverse range of coconut-based products — demonstrating not only the ingredient’s versatility but also its growing potential in export markets.
Further expanding its scope, the fair introduces a dedicated Halal segment featuring certified and Halal-ready products. This initiative aligns with DTI’s broader push to strengthen the Philippines’ foothold in the global Halal market, encouraging enterprises to meet international standards and tap into new consumer segments.
Beyond food, the fair also features a broader selection of Filipino craftsmanship and culinary culture, including gourmet offerings, regional delicacies, local handicrafts, as well as kitchen utensils and tools —making it a more immersive showcase of both taste and tradition.
DTI Business Connect Lounge
Beyond product showcases, the DTI Business Connect Lounge will act as a hub for meaningful industry engagement. Designed to facilitate business matching, the space brings together MSMEs and institutional buyers — including distributors and retailers — with the goal of turning conversations into concrete supply agreements and long-term partnerships.
The NFF is open to the public with free admission until April 12. Visitors can also look forward to product sampling, live demonstrations, and interactive activities, while buyers gain access to a curated selection of market-ready brands poised for expansion.
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