Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and Vice Governor Jose Benito Alonso, ANP president Christina Gaston and Mary Ann Colmenares, and SM officials lead the cutting of the ribbon to open the 39th Negros Trade Fair.*Ronnie Baldonado photo
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson expects the six-day 39th Negros Trade Fair, which opened at the SMX Convention Center, SM Aura Premier, in Taguig City on Tuesday, Sept. 23, to generate better sales.
In his speech at the opening, Lacson said the trade fair’s move from Makati City to SM Aura opens new possibilities.
“This new venue allows us to accommodate more participants, ensuring that the fair continues to grow, innovate, and reach even wider audiences,” he said.
The six product sectors of the Association of Negros Producers (ANP) — fashion, furniture, gifts and housewares, food, organic and natural products, and tourism — participating in the trade fair are a testament to the richness and diversity of the Negrenses, he said.
He also said this year’s trade fair is even more meaningful with the participation of Negros Oriental and Siquijor.
“Their presence reminds us that while we come from different provinces, we are united by shared heritage, culture, and aspirations as one region,” he said.
TESDA Secretary Francisco Benitez, Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and Negros Oriental Gov. Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria at the Negros Trade Fair opening.*Ronnie Baldonado photo
“With the establishment of the Negros Island Region with Siquijor, we now stand as one region, with renewed collective strength and are better positioned to advance the welfare and development of our people.”
“As we once again come together to open the 39th Negros Trade Fair, we celebrate the spirit of ‘Himbon’ — a Hiligaynon word that means ‘to gather,’” he said.
Lacson also recalled how the fair began with the courage and determination of Negrense women during the sugar crisis of the 1980s.
“From those difficult years, they pioneered resilience and hope, and through the years, the Negros Trade Fair has become the longest-running provincial trade fair in the country,” he said.
He commended the ANP “for once again spearheading this meaningful tradition. Your persistence has created countless opportunities for our micro, small, and medium enterprises to thrive, both in domestic and global markets,” he said.
Mary Ann Colmenares, co-chair of the trade fair, said the opening day drew huge crowds of shoppers, as well as ambassadors and public officials.
“Himbon is a word that beautifully captures the spirit of the Negros Trade Fair throughout the years. It serves as a reminder that the strength of Negros is rooted in our ability to unite — in kinship, creativity, and shared purpose,” she said.*