2023 National Trade Fair to showcase sustainable and green products

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The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (BDTP) is set to host the 2023 Hybrid National Trade Fair on August 23 to 27 at the Megatrade Halls at SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City. The event will showcase sustainable, green, and eco-friendly materials and products, as well as digital innovations for MSMEs.

“The 2023 Hybrid NTF is aimed at accelerating the development and production of products based on the principles of eco-friendly manufacturing and sustainable consumerism,” said BDTP Director Marievic Bonoan. “We believe that this event will be a great opportunity for MSMEs to showcase their sustainable products and services, and to connect with potential customers and partners.”

Organized in partnership with the DTI Regional and Provincial Offices, the five-day event will feature over 250 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the country’s 16 regions. The exhibitors will showcase and sell a rich selection of non-food products such as furniture and furnishings, woodcrafts, metalcrafts and leathercrafts, home décor, houseware, apparel made of indigenous textiles, modern and traditional formal wear, fashion accessories and wearables made of eco-friendly materials, gift collections, souvenir items, holiday décor, personal care, and health and wellness products.

Fairgoers will also be able to experience the various special settings and pavilions, including:

· Philippine Sustainability Pavilion featuring Bamboo, Coconut, Natural Fibers, and Grass

· Innovative Coconut-based Products Cluster

· Other Innovative Products Cluster

· The Rural Agro-enterprise Partnership for Inclusive Development and Growth Project (RAPID) Special Setting

· KAPEtirya: Coffee Pavilion

· Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Project Beneficiaries Special Cluster

· Philippine Green Living and Holiday Décor Pavilion

· #FlexPHridays Photo Corner

In line with the DTI’s digitalization strategy, the 2023 National Trade Fair continues to expand the market access of participating MSMEs through e-commerce platforms and social media channels. All NTF exhibitors will be featured in the upcoming edition of Sisidlan: The Official NTF 2023 Digital Product Catalog, which includes the product information and contact details of the exhibitors. Buyers outside Metro Manila can follow live updates of the physical show through online streaming on the BDTP Facebook.

The formal opening of the 2023 National Trade Fair will be held on Wednesday, August 23, with top DTI officials and guests from partner-agencies in attendance.

To know more about the 2023 National Trade Fair and other programs of the DTI-Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion, please follow their social media accounts on Facebook (DTI.BDTP), Instagram (dti.bdtp), and Twitter (@DTI_BDTP). You may also email BDTP Director Marievic M. Bonoan at bdtp@dti.gov.ph.

"Wow! Taiwan" exhibit brings groundbreaking and innovative brands in the Ph market

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"Wow! Taiwan," exhibit was brought to the Philippines by Taiwan’s Bureau of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Economic Affairs (BOFT-MOEA) and Commerce Development Research Institute (CDRI) in partnership with CRIF Asia, with the objective of bridging Taiwan’s leading enterprises to Philippine companies and consumers.

Recently, the “Wow! Taiwan” exhibit was held at the Rosemary Hall of City Garden Grand Hotel in Makati City, featured different Taiwan-based enterprises presented their various products and brands for possible business-matching in the Philippines and to introduce them to our local market.

The showcase presents various kiosks that displayed the best of  products. The brands in the exhibition included XYZprinting Inc., Brinno Incorporation, HiMirror Mini, Master Mi, Carnation, Yumark, FECA, Kid2Youth, Washcan, Jye Li An, Bung Cheng, Shuter Enterprise Co. Ltd., H&J Food, and Chung-Hsiang Foods.

Taiwan is a dynamic economy that has been increasingly gaining interest from global businesses in recent time. Emerging as one of the most promising innovation and startup hubs in Asia, Taiwan is home to some of the most groundbreaking and innovative brands in the region. 

To further strengthen their position as the newest innovation center in Asia, Taiwan has been proactively introducing their groundbreaking brands globally. 

The partnership also aims to open up new markets and channels for Taiwan’s breadwinning products through new distributors, agents, and retailers. The "Wow! Taiwan" exhibit showcased various kiosks that displayed the best of Taiwanese food, cosmetics, fashion, technology, and modern household products. 

Director Chang Wen Chong, Director of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the Philippines explained that the entrepreneurs of the exhibited products want to be exposed to the local market in the hope of widening their market and finding prospective partnerships and opportunities to set up shop in the Philippines. 

According to Director Chong, the Taiwanese entrepreneurs are targeting the “middle to higher-end market” in the country, due to the increasing purchasing power of Filipinos as well as their affinity with the Taiwanese.

“The Philippines has a very young and dynamic population that's open to innovative products,” stressed Director Chong. “They are also interested in Taiwanese culture, as seen in the huge numbers of Filipino visitors flocking to Taiwan.  In fact, the Philippines has the most number of arrivals from Southeast Asia in Taiwan last year. Currently, the potential is high in the Filipino market because the younger generation has more disposable income and are open to new and unique products.”

Here are the Taiwanese brands that were featured in the exhibition:

XYZ Printing Inc. Its a 3D printer for home. It’s a new Kinpo group’s subsidiary, its a Taiwan-based world leader in electronic manufacturing services (EMS) with a global footprint in the US, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Brazil, Mexico, and the Philippines.

Brinno Incorporation offers the first quality mass-marketed time-lapse total solution. Its the first mover focusing on the time-lapse photography advancements. Brinno develops hardware and software solutions and put them in one digital device.

HiMirror Mini its the world’s smartest vanity mirror, the company is another Kinpo Group’s subsidiary, the leader in electronic manufacturing services (EMS) with a global footprint in the US, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Brazil, Mexico, and the Philippines.

Master Mi provides a series of natural and healthy products made from rice. In 1998, Master Mi develops the 1st No Fried Biscuit Machine, with all-natural materials for its ingredients. They work with dietitians to provide a series of healthy, natural and tasty products.

Carnation A pioneer of Taiwan’s nonwoven industry, KNH founded in 1969 is a leading specialty manufacturer on nonwoven and related products in personal hygiene and skincare.

Yumark has been involved in the field of beauty and fashion for the last 40 years, in 2002, Yumark reached a new milestone by branching out into manufacturing of bags.

FECA Ferro-Carbon company founded in 1989 was the manufacturer of tile cutting tools, in 2009 it starts products of vacuum sucker hooks and establishes the brand “FECA”. it combines functionality and aesthetics to save space.

Kid2Youth TCT Architectural REsources establish in 1962. In 1983 TCT is Asia’s first ergonomic table and chair, marketing in Japan. Then, the TCT brand alliance in Taiwan has more than 100 stores, becoming Taiwan’s largest furniture chain. In 2005, Kid2Youtch brand markets to overseas.

Washcan is a brand of bright Journey Co., LTD, which was founded in 1982 and supplies of bedding sets, comforter sets, indoor slipper, chair cover, table cloth, and hotel items.

Jye Li An specialized in R&D on automatic products, which makes the products on a stable quantity and let customers more convenient.

Bung Cheng, Bung Cheng Technology Co., LTD. founded in 2013 provides products and services for a series of smart solutions for the living environment.

Shuter Enterprise Co. Ltd. was established in 1969, today its Taiwan’s leading specialist in the manufacture and design of storage solution for home, office and industrial settings.

H&J Food known as Formosa is rich in natural resources, advance agricultural technology, and hard-working farmers, and has produced many high-quality agricultural products. H&J Food founded in 2013 keeps introducing Taiwan Goodies to the world in a variety of types, one of them is Pomelo Ale.

Chung-Hsiang Foods is established nearly 50 years ago and the prime leader of saltine crackers and green onion crackers in Taiwan.

TOYCON POPLIFE FANX 2019

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TOYCON POPLIFE FANX 2019, the biggest and longest-running pop culture event in Asia on June 28 - 30 at SMX Convention Center,  SM Mall of Asia.  

This year we're taking on a global stage with bigger attractions, more local and international guests, and the best Fan experience ever! 

With the biggest collections of comics, toys, designer toys and collectibles all under one roof. With more than 300 sellers and exhibitors in our retail floor.

The biggest names in art and toy design converge in this year's TOYCON 2019, headlined by the godfather of street art and art toy legend, Ron English!

Get Tickets: bit.ly/Toycon2019Tickets

Visit toyconph.com for more details

#TOYCONPOPLIFEFANX #WhereAsiaComesToPlay

Artinformal‎ to NIL (1987-2002) Curated by Erwin Romulo and Neil Daza

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Artinformal presents NIL, an exhibition curated by Erwin Romulo and Neil Daza at the gallery’s Greenhills location opening on June 9, 2018, 6PM. The exhibition will be on view until July 14, 2018.

Taking their cue from Daza’s Blacksoup exhibition in 2006, Romulo and Daza are mounting a new show of crime scene photographs taken between the years 1987 to 2002. Also included in the exhibition are video works by Cinema Regla.

Raw and at times graphic, the show asks: “Is there really such a thing as ‘the good old days’?”

Editor, writer, producer, and composer Erwin Romulo curated Everyday Impunity: Ang Mga Walang Pangalan, an exhibition based on the work of photographer Carlo Gabuco at Art Fair Philippines 2018 as well as an exhibition of sound art and multi-media art during the fair’s 2017 and 2015 edition, respectively. He was also one of the curators of Wasak! Filipino Art Today, shown in Berlin in 2015.

Filmmaker and photographer Neil Daza is known for his work in films like Bwaya, Emir, and Dekada ‘70, among others. In 2017, he marked his 25 years in the film industry with an exhibition at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, 25 Times: Images From Behind The Camera. He has curated several shows of photography for arts space Blacksoup in Cubao, including KAMBYO, an exhibition of cellphone images, and Detritus, featuring photographs from which this current exhibition is based.

Filmmaker collective and guerrilla media outfit Cinema Regla is an online magazine and channel run by documentary filmmakers Rico Ibarra, Blair Camilo and Jun Sabayton. Founded by visual artist, animator and director Roxlee, it is dedicated to covering Filipino culture, with a focus on (in no particular order) art, photography, music, literature, science, politics, history, environment, crime, violence, truth, sex, drugs, and budotz.

PHILBEX & TLEX 2018: Elevating the way we build and travel

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Recognizing the boundless prospects and world-class caliber of the region’s construction and design industry, Worldbex Services International (WSI) – the country’s leading events and expositions organizer – in a game changing move, introduced the first-ever Philippine Building and Construction Expo Davao in 2014 – a regional franchise of the company’s iconic WORLDBEX in Manila. More recently, WSI in its bid to empower the region’s travel and tourism sector, introduced the first-ever Travel and Leisure Expo Davao in 2017 with considerable acclaim from both consumers and industry professionals alike.

This year, WSI picks up exactly where it left off as it announces the return of its highly anticipated trade shows in the region. Happening back to back this May at the SMX Convention Center at the third floor of SM Lanang Premier is the 4^th PHILBEX Davao and the excitable 2^nd edition of TLEX Davao. Highly regarded for delivering no less than topnotch and all-inclusive trade events, WSI’s back-to-back shows are expected to stir up a flurry of promising B2B opportunities. Meanwhile, its diverse presentation promises consumers convenient and extensive access to a wide array of products and services.

Building for the future

Last year, incumbent Mayor Sara Duterte praised PHILBEX Davao for its timely contribution for the region’s rapidly expanding construction industry. In which she claims that “[PHILBEX Davao] will be a good opportunity for everyone in the industry to acquire new skills and be updated on the latest innovations and technologies in the field to help raise the standard of the city’s construction industry and find feasible, long-term solutions to design and construction challenges for a stronger, sturdier, and more progressive Philippines.”

Last year's visitors were hyped with back-to-back PHILBEX TLEX Davao.

Now on its fourth year, PHILBEX Davao aims to deliver a spectacular show and affirm its position as the region’s biggest and most comprehensive construction and design trade expo. In line with WSI’s overall direction for the sector this 2018, PHILBEX Davao will take after the theme of the recently-concluded WORLDBEX 2018.

In “Shaping Innovations Toward Sustainability”, this year’s PHILBEX Davao carries through the vision of encouraging the industry to examine the need to elevate the technological aspect of the region’s construction and design practice while also taking into account the need to incorporate environmental preservation strategies.It is this central element which will be addressed and tackled by close to 95 exhibitors from the region and all over the Philippines as well as countries such as China and Indonesia.

In numbers, PHILBEX Davao 2018 is poised to impress as it reports an increased exhibitor count of 219 booths and a total exhibit area which surpasses last year’s 4,480sqm estimate. Indeed, this year’s show is expected to be PHILBEX Davao’s most groundbreaking installment yet.

Apart from an comprehensive showcase of the latest and most innovative products and services, among the must-see event highlights at PHILBEX Davao 2018 include the Architect’s Gallery, the Interior Designer’s Gallery, the Worldbex Lab exhibit, the PHILBEX MiniCons, the Philippine Institute of Interior Designer’s Mini Talk Show, and the 2^ndProjeto Davao Furniture Design Competition.

Travel in style as you visit TLEX Davao 2018

Inspiring travels and beyond

Following its successfully debut last year, TLEX Davao returns to arouse the spirit of adventure among the people of Davao. Centering on the theme of “Excite. Explore. Experience”, the 2^nd TLEX Davao seeks to inspire people to discover the world of travel as it brings within reach the widest array of top-rated and accredited travel and leisure brands.

Attesting to the high-demands of the region for quality tourism products and services, this year’s TLEX Davao reports a remarkable increase in its show statistics. From last year’s booth and exhibitor count of 68 and 50 respectively, TLEX Davao is set to house 90 booths as it welcomes more than 70 exhibitors – expanding its exhibit area from 1,263sqm to 1,500sqm in total.

From travel agencies, airlines, and hotels to resorts, couriers, cruise lines, and shipping companies, visitors may also expect a range of exclusive travel promos throughout the four-day travel show. Also not to be missed are the series of pocket events and activities that will be hosted by Visit Davao Summer Festival to engage visitors and promote Davao as a travel and leisure destination.

“TLEX Davao, on its first run, seeks to foster a strong sense of adventure by bringing within reach a wide range of travel and leisure products along with an exciting line-up of tourism-related events and programs. And we are optimistic that this is only the beginning of bigger things to come for the region’s tourism and hospitality industry,” enthuses WSI Founding Chairman Joseph Ang.

Though still in its infancy, TLEX Davao has come to assume a significant position in the region as a top-grade venue for all things travel and tourism. More than just about empowering the region’s reputation as a tourism hub, TLEX Davao ultimately aims to enhance the development of Davao’s economic sectors by way of improving its travel and transit logistics industry.

Hailed as one of the fastest growing cities in the world, Davao in all its robust potentiality has been demonstrating quite an unprecedented economic growth for the past few years. With the return of PHILBEX and TLEX Davao, two of the region’s most promising industry sectors can expect to benefit from the insights and networking opportunities that is in-store for visitors and exhibitors alike.

PHILBEX and TLEX Davao 2018 is happening on May 10 to 13, from 11am to 7pm at the SMX Convention Center Davao located at the third floor of the SM Lanang Premier. 

For more information, check out @worldbex and @tlex.ph on facebook and instagram.

From construction to cars: “Build, Build, Build” Program set to thrive at MIAS 2018

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Time and again, Worldbex Services International (WSI) – the country’s biggest events and expositions organizer – proves its unrivalled capacity in stimulating economic productivity with the recently-concluded WORLDBEX 2018. Following in the footsteps of its groundbreaking installments in the past, this year’s WORLDBEX had once again broken new grounds as it welcomed close to 180,000 visitors – transcending last year’s visitor count of 170,000.

As the country’s biggest construction event draws closer to its Silver Anniversary, attendees and exhibitors alike significantly benefitted from the dynamic B2B opportunities that unfolded during the widely successful trade event – a development that openly complements the ongoing “Build, Build, Build” Program of the current administration.

Drawing from the same objective, WSI picks up the pace in realizing the vast economic possibilities that abound as it gears up to deliver another highly anticipated trade event that will serve to augment the country’s plight towards infrastructure development. Hailed as the biggest and most awaited car show in the country, the Manila International Auto Show is set to return on April 5 to 8, from 10:00am to 10:00pm at the World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTCMM), WTCMM Northwing, and the Philippine Trade Training Center.

This time around, fueling the direction for this year’s MIAS is its strong intent to focus on the dual nature of today’s vehicles. Through the theme of “Work & Play”, this year’s MIAS will be all about showcasing a wide array of cars and other automotive innovations that will elevate not only the way people travel but also, the way companies do business.

To date, MIAS has noted a 38% increase on its exhibiting companies and a whopping 60% increase on the anticipated car and motorcycle displays which is in part a result of the 16% increase in venue of this year’s show. Moreover, apart from boasting of over 200 exhibiting companies and over 400 car and motorcycle display, MIAS is thrilled to announce a new addition to its roster of event highlights – the Truck Pavilion which will be located at the WTCMM Northwing.

Taking cue from the “Build, Build, Build” Program, MIAS believes that vehicular and automotive development play just as crucial a role in actualizing the planned expansion and growth in the infrastructure sector. As such, attendees can expect a high percentage of commercial vehicles on display at this year’s show.

Among the must-see exhibitors at MIAS 2018 is FOTON, an international automotive company which designs and manufactures trucks, buses, sport utility vehicles, and even agricultural machinery. At this year’s show, FOTON is expected to unveil the FOTON Tornado C, a Cummins-powered light duty transport vehicle best suitable for construction businesses.

From passenger cars that can double as Transport Network Vehicle Services to commercial vehicles that bear features as luxurious as executive sedans, this year’s MIAS is all about highlighting the multi-functionality and flexibility of today’s vehicles. Furthermore, this is attested by the fact that around 40% of this year’s exhibitors primarily deal with commercial vehicles. 

MIAS 2018 is expected to bridge the gap between various industries by providing business owners and investors with an extensive access to the world’s leading automotive brands. Likewise, it serves to open up the possibilities for automotive companies to foster connections across other sectors. Indeed, the optimistic and ambitious “Build, Build, Build” program finds a fitting platform in MIAS 2018.

Now on its 14th year, MIAS remains to be the most significant automotive event in the country for car enthusiasts and industry players alike! As this year’s show centers on the theme of “Work & Play”, MIAS 2018 invites everyone to take part in a different kind of automotive experience; one wherein the boundaries between leisure and progress collide to create a never-before-seen spectacle of automotive evolution. For more information, visit our facebook page @mias and on instagram: @mias.ph.

Boldly goes to where no CON has gone before! TOYCON Ph + Pop Life FanXperience : A winning combination

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TOYCON PHILIPPINES + POP LIFE FANXPERIENCE: A WINNING COMBINATION!

Get ready for the biggest TOYCON in the Asia! 

It used to be when TOYCON was just all about toys and collecting geeky stuff, and being under one roof with pop-culture fanboys, cosplayers, gamers and comic book nerds. But this year, TOYCON heads off for uncharted waters and borrowing from a certain famous space TV show, “Boldly goes to where no CON has gone before.”

The Philippine TOYCON, now on its 16th year, began an exciting partnership with Pop Life Entertainment, a leading international creative house and brand development company, last year to create the ultimate Fan experience for the Filipino pop-culture fans.

The Philippine Toys, Hobbies and Collectibles Convention (TOYCON), Asia’s biggest and longest-running convention for collectibles, toys, anime, comics, cosplay, and gaming

ToyCon Pop Life FanXperience 2016 was the biggest celebration of all things associated with pop-culture such as toys, games, movies, cosplay, anime and collectibles.

FanXperience made ToyCon the staging-ground of the "ultimate fan experience” for the local fan base who got to get up close and personal for the first time with international celebrities like Kristian Nairn from Game of Thrones and Dean Cain from the Adventures of Superman. This year the TOYCON POP LIFE FANXPERIENCE 2017 takes it up a notch higher and promises bigger entertainment and a whole new playground for the digital generation.

WHAT’S IN IT THIS YEAR?

TOYCON POP LIFE FANXPERIENCE launches to the stratosphere with not just one, two or three but SEVEN big international celebrities for the Filipino fans to enjoy an up close and personal encounter! 

These include: 

Carla Perez – Rita Repulsa in the Power Rangers 90s TV Series 

Charlie Bewley – The Vampire Dmitri, from the Twilight movie franchise 

Lindsay Mckeon – Tessa the Reaper from the hit TV series, Supernatural 

Karen Fukuhara – Katana of the Suicide Squad 

Stefan Capicic – Colossus in the Deadpool Movie 

Cas Anvar – the voice of Altair in Assassins Creed:Revelations 

Kevin McNally – Joshamee Gibbs in all 5 Pirate of the Caribbean movies

The FanXperience will certainly give lucky fans a chance to interact one-on-one with these

big celebrities through the live panels and Meet & Greet sessions.

The TOYCON also boasts of some of the biggest exhibits in the world of popular culture and

this year’s highlights include:

 Japan’s top toy brand, Kotobukiya, displays its latest line of Marvel, Star Wars andDC figurines along with the launch of the Frame Arms Girl Anime and merchandise. 

 Warner Brothers features its movie exhibit of its upcoming line of hit movies, IT,Ninjago, Justice League and the original movie prop doll of the horror cult classic,Annabelle. 

 Mars Ravelo’s Superheroes are featured in their classic art and comic form courtesyof the Mars Ravelo Estate and ABS CBN Licensing. 

 The TOYCON Toy Club Gallery – The biggest toy collectors’ exhibit ever assembledunder one roof featuring top toy brands, Kotobukiya, Enesco, Bandai, Hero Cross,Hasbro, Mattel, Hot Toys and Lego. This exhibit makes ToyCon one of the mostphotographed events in the country. 

 Artists Alley and custom artwork - fans meet their favorite local and internationalguest artists for custom sketches, signing and art critiquing 

 The biggest dealer floor of around 240 merchants of various pop-culturemerchandise, comics, accessories, cosplay merchandise, toys and collectibles 

Other event highlights include: 

 The grand finals of the World Cosplay Summit Philippine Championship and our veryown TOYCON Cosplay Competition 

 The awarding of the very first Pinoy Pop Culture Awards 

 Musical performances by British electronic duo, Addictive TV and top local bands 

 ToyClicks toy photography competition and the Toy Customization contest

WHAT NEW FOR THIS YEAR’S CONVENTION?

Pop Life Entertainment brings your ideas to life in the Creator Stage! All digital content creators and online celebrity aspirants can make their mark on the digital stage by creating their own content right at the Pop Life Creator Stage at the 2nd level of the SMX Convention Center. Share your genius and get a chance to be part of a global leader in multi-channel networks, Pro Am Studio!

Enjoy a brand new set of toys in a whole new playground as the TOYCON POP LIFE FANXPERIENCE happens on June 30 to July 2, 2017, SMX Convention Center Manila Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City

The event is organized by the Asian Comics, Toys & Hobbies Collective Inc. and Pop Life Entertainment and co-presented by GLOBE. With sponsors MaxiCollector, Arigatoys, the Gaming Library, Warner Brothers Pictures, Bankee, Toy Empire, Ano Toys, Great Toys Online, Hygienix, Bully Boys Collectibles, Big Boys Toystore, Hubbyte, Kramer Toy Warden, Devant, Mogu- Mogu, and Bruder Toys.

With media partners, ABS-CBN, History Channel, Psicom, Manilascape, PBNet and Retro 105.9 DCG FM.

For more event details visit www.toyconph.com and www.facebook.com/ToyConPh

Tickets are available online at SMTickets.com

2016 Sikat Pinoy National Trade Fair : Give the Best of the Philippines this Christmas

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Lighting of the special setting to mark the official opening of the Sikat Pinoy National Trade Fair. In the photo are (from left): Hon. Jocelyn Limkaichong, 1st district representative of Negros Oriental ; Asec. Christopher Naga (ROG) ; Director Rhodora Leano, Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion.

Looking for Christmas gifts that are unique and meaningful, yet affordable? Do you want to share your Christmas blessings by supporting the livelihoods of home-grown small and medium entrepreneurs? Do you want to help provide employment to our countrymen in the provinces, and preserve our heritage crafts?

The 2016 SikatPinoy National Trade Fair, with its theme Piling-Piling Produktong Pilipino, brings the best products of SMEs from all over the Philippines under one roof for the convenience of Metro Manila shoppers. This is happening on December 7-11, at the Megatrade Halls in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. Admission is free.

Over 280 exhibitors were carefully screened and selected to bring a mix of regional delicacies, artisanal crafts, home décor, novelty items, knick-knacks, etc. Here is a rundown of what visitors will find at the fair:

• FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS – dining sets, sala sets, tables, chairs, stools, bar counters, beds, cabinets, wine racks, wall panels, chandeliers, lamps, and clocks made from wood and other locally available material.

• HOME DÉCOR – dividers, trays, hampers, baskets, paper weights, wall décor, vases, planters, fossilized flowers, corn husk roses, water bonsai, fine bone China home décor, curtains, fitted sheets, blankets, mats, soft toys, candle holders, chimes, and many other decorative items.

• FASHION ACCESSORIES – fine jewelry (rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, bangles) made from gold, silver, pearls and other semi-precious stones; costume jewelry; bags, wallets, pouches, backpacks and satchels made from leather, snakeskin, buntal, pandan, ticog, and other indigenous materials.
• 
  
• HANDWOVEN – wall hangings and tapestries; table runners, placemats and napkins; blankets and rugs; shawls, ponchos, and tribal wear — made from Banaue ikat, Kalinga fabric, Vigan abel, Negros silk, Bohol raffia, other local weaves. 

• FOOTWEAR – shoes, slippers, sandals, espadrilles made from local materials such as abel and sabutan.

• SNACK FOOD – chicharon, chicharabao, empanada, macapuno, nata de coco, coco jam, peanuts and peanut butter, bibingka, macaroons, uraro, biscocho, butterscotch, rosquillos, cookies, sans rival, polvoron, turones de casoy, cashew nuts, mazapan de pili, pastillas, banana chips, durian candy, noodles, and many other regional delicacies.

• PROCESSED MEAT — different types of longganisa from Vigan to Lucban; as well as tocino, bagnet, embutido, tapa, pork barbeque, and other meat products.

• CONDIMENTS – vinegars such as sugarcane vinegar, coco vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and sukang Iloko; different types of bagoong, shrimp paste and crab paste; bottled laing, sinaing na tulingan, ginataang tailis, and bicol express; chili flakes and paste, garlic bits; fruit preserves, macapuno, and coco sugar; Himalayan sea salt, and many others.

• COFFEE & BEVERAGES – robusta/arabica coffee from the Cordilleras and corn coffee from Agusan del Sur; fruit wines made from bignay, bugnay, pineapple, guyabano, honey, rambutan, yacoon, sugar cane, and mango; herbal teas made from moringa, lemongrass, turmeric, and ginger brew; fresh milk, yoghurt, and kesong puti; pure tablea, calamansi concentrate, and other health drinks. 

• HEALTH AND WELLNESS – organic soaps, facial creams, body lotions and moisturizers, shampoos and conditioners, and other beauty products; virgin coconut oil and herbal oils and balms; wild honey and bee propolis.

Come and do your shopping at the 2016 SikatPinoy National Trade Fair. You will not only find a unique gift that will surely be appreciated by friends and loved ones, you will also be contributing to national economic development and inclusive growth by supporting the Trabaho at Negosyo (Employment and Entrepreneurship) initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry.

For more information, contact the DTI-Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion at telephone no. 751-3223, fax no. 751-3224, or email bdtp@dti.gov.ph. Please “Like” the Facebook page www.facebook.com/sikatpinoyfairs for updates on Sikat Pinoy events. 

SCG Exhibit at WorldBEX 2016 Redefines the Future of Innovative Living for Filipino Homeowners

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Strengthened SCG Smartboard for innovative home building

SCG, an ASEAN sustainable business leader, displayed new products that will help Filipinos create stylish and sustainable homes at the 21^st WorldBEX, which kicked off on March 16, 2016.

With more than 100 years of expertise in the homebuilding and construction sector, SCG showcased their concept of “UNBOUNDED FIBER CEMENT.”  SCG’s 90-square foot booth displayed actual installations of SCG products and the innovative solutions that the Philippine market will be seeing for the first time.

“Our annual participation in WorldBEX affirms the company’s strong commitment to develop world-class products and services to meet the changing and growing needs of international and local construction professionals, traders, exporters, associations and homeowners. SCG is ready to introduce and deliver the latest technologies, innovative building materials and creative construction solutions for Filipinos,” said Mr. Phaskorn Buranawit, Country Director of SCG Cement-Building Materials Philippines.

One of the featured innovations was the SCG Smartboard, a fiber-cement board consisting of SCG Portland cement and non-asbestos cellulose fiber, giving it strength, flexibility, and water resistance. The public was invited to test the strength of the board by stomping heavily on the board, and they were amazed that it did not sustain any damage. 

Two breakthrough technologies showcased at the exhibit were Extrusion Technology and Digital Printing Technology. Extrusion Technology uses a free form molding process that provides a wide range of styles and designs with various depth levels and dynamic forms needed to make distinctive home finishes, as seen in the SCG Smartboard Modeena and SCG Smartwood Floor Plank. 

These floor planks bring life to homes with their multi-layer impression that gives a personal touch to a person’s home. For example, the SCG Smartboard Modeena is applicable for both exterior and interior use due to its termite-free and waterproof properties; while it is the same for the SCG Smartwood Floor Plank which can reduce the weight up to 25%, therefore saving on structural costs.

The Digital Printing Technology on Fiber Cement Board enables printing of a variety of colors, designs, and textures on wall tiles that provide different tones and unique artistic designs. With these products, walls and floors can be stylishly designed to suit various taste preferences. The SCG booth at WorldBEX displayed a room whose walls and floors used digital printing to achieve the look of real marble material.   

“We at SCG understand that Filipino homeowners want their homes to look the very best and to be made by the best materials out there in the market. As a response to this, SCG continually develops their products and services to provide Filipino families high-quality SCG products that can be applied for either exterior or interior parts of their homes, ensuring innovative and sustainable living for all Filipinos nationwide,” said Mr. Buranawit.

The Wildflower: A Fashion Retrospective

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Witness a great exhibit of beautiful dresses of a wonderful lady, a fashion designer, columnist and socialite-philanthropist known for her flamboyant outfits. - Tessa Rufino Prieto-Valdes.

As we call it with a hashtag #wildflowerbytessa,  "The Wildflower: A Fashion Retrospective" exhibit runs from March 8-18, 2016 at the Mega Fashion Hall. 

As celebrating women’s month this March alongside their 30th anniversary, SM Megamall presents Wildflower: A Fashion Retrospective on style icon Tessa Rufino Prieto-Valdes. Amidst all the minimalist fashion trending, one woman dares to stand out. 

Like wildflowers that come in varied species and kinds, the exhibit portrays women from all walks of life. Through each of her dresses, we share a vibrant story worth telling.

Tessa Rufino Prieto-Valdes

Also known as the Sea Princess, Tessa is a Sunday lifestyle columnist in the Philippine Daily Inquirer and manages her own site; www.tessaprietovaldes.com. Tessa is a socialite-philanthropist known for her sophisticated style, extravagant accessories, and colorful personality. She has been featured in lifestyle magazines and is ever-present in grand events. She also busies herself with the different charities she supports, spending weekends in Balesin, raiding shopping centers, and playing Barbie with different designers.

Wildflower: An Exhibition of dresses by Manila’s top designers

As we walk through the Sea Princess’ whimsical wardrobe collection, we are introduced to an aspect of Tessa Prieto-Valdes that is essential to her personality -- her imaginative fashion. The exhibit likens Tessa as a wildflower, colorful, flamboyant, and diverse. Beauty is a natural thing whether in simplicity or extravagance. And as we trace back to the most organic form of inspiration -- nature -- through Tessa’s wardrobe, we are introduced to some of Manila’s top designers that Tessa Prieto-Valdes champions. 

The Designers

Albert Andrada returns to the Philippines after 20 years designing luxurious garments for royalty in the Middle East. He was referred to as “Asia’s Most Connected Designer” with works of very flowing, feminine, and definitely dramatic. He takes inspiration from his mother whom he refers to as “a very fashionable lady.”

Ivarluski “Ivar” Aseron is an innovative fashion designer whose collections have been featured abroad, including Malaysia and Indonesia. Ivar is known for his ability to masterfully fuse movement with structure, classic with current, and feminine with a dash of gentleman as seen in his geometric style which includes a surprise of softness that creates slim silhouettes, clean lines, and unexpected details. 

Pablo Cabahug specializes in body conscious and tailored formal wear for men and women. His work has been featured in Philippine Fashion Week a couple of times and has been recognized as one of the top collections with his trademark design being classic silhouettes. He won the Look of Style Awards back in 2010 which gave him the opportunity to study fashion design and marketing at the prestigious Central Saint Martins College of Arts and Design.

Michael Cinco is an international fashion designer who was born in Samar and is currently based in Dubai. Michael studied at Slim’s Fashion and Arts School in the early 1990’s and proceeded to study in London and Paris halfway through his career. His collections were featured in Miami, New York, Dubai, and Manila and he has been designing for Gulf Arab royals for years. His works boasts of lavishly elaborate couture with detailed embellishments that sparkle with crystal beading, opulent lace, and lush textures. Michael won Breakthrough Designer of 2011 at the WGSN Global Fashion Awards in New York and is the first Filipino designer to be featured on “America’s Next Top Model.”

Maureen Disini is known for her simple cuts and wedding gowns. She was trained in Milan’s Istituto di Moda Burgo in 2009, where she earned a diploma in Stilista di Moda (Fashion Design and Patternmaking). Maureen’s aesthetic is classic, simple, easy and feminine which tend to embrace tradition and forego trends. She customizes her pieces through the fabrics she chooses that are ideal to the personality and character of her clientele.

Rhett Eala has become one of the country’s prominent design icons. He first showcased his talent as an in-house fashion designer in Rustan’s where he was offered to design his first label entitled, “Due by Rhett Eala,” a fashion line for kids. Over the years, his line grew and matured into a more sophisticated line for women and he exemplifies this in his position as the current Art Director of Plains and Prints.

Ronald Enrico is a Cebu-based designer who specializes in custom-made formal wear. He is renowned for his delicate details, fabric manipulation, clean finish, and flattering cuts. Ronald’s workmanship attracts much needed attention through weaving flamboyant and gaudy combinations of tulle, chiffon, and taffeta in his pieces.

Jun Escario started from Cebu and eventually grew to cater international design works where he is renowned for his bridal and evening garments. With gracefulness and elegance in his pieces, his works have reached the London Philippine Fashion Show in 2012.

Rocky Gathercole is well-known for his experimental, unpredictable, and whimsical creations. He came from humble beginnings but with passion and perseverance, paved himself a vibrant fashion career. Gathercole has been a designer in the United Arab Emirates for more than two decades. His definition of wearable is still enigmatic to those that cannot comprehend fashion’s form of self-expression, which to his advantage appealed to Arab women. 

Rajo Laurel began his career in 1993 and soon founded House of Laurel in 2000. Trained in New York Fashion Institute of Technology and Central Saint Martin’s in London, he has represented the Philippines locally and internationally throughout the years and has received countless awards for fashion design and entrepreneurship. His works display his signature beading on romantic and luxurious gowns. His articles are a combination of rigid and mellow elements that creates a modern and feminine workmanship which makes his pieces well defined.

Monique Lhuillier is one of America’s foremost designers sought after by many celebrities locally and internationally. She is renowned for her designs that capture the essence of sophisticated luxury by provoking femininity, allure, and glamour. Her ready-to-wear, accessories, and bridal collections embody her innate sense of style.

Francis Libiran is an A-list designer who has garnered success locally and internationally. His work has been featured in numerous shows, some of which include the fashion gala at Manila Hotel during its centennial celebration, the first Canada Philippine Fashion Week, and the annual fashion show in Tokyo, Japan. He is also the designer behind the winning gown worn by Megan Young in Miss World 2013. 

Jojie Lloren is a Pateros-based multi-awarded and considered as one of the most respected fashion designer. He graduated with a degree in Clothing Technology in University of the Philippines Diliman and gained training from Ecoles de Chambre Syndicale dela Couture Parisiennce in Paris. After many years in the industry, he continued to gain fame as a resident mentor at a Filipino rendition of a renowned TV-series “Project Runway.” Jojie’s style prioritizes comfort among all other constituents of good dressing.

Dennis Lustico creates works with styles of geometry and femininity. Usually for events and social functions, his garments feature a certain gleam of sophistication yet is still practical and easy to wear especially for women who are always on-the-go.

Pablo Mendez started teaching after graduating from Slims in the 1990s. Since then, he has won many awards including the grand prize for Philippine Fashion Designer Competition in 2007. While he has achieved many awards, he still returned to Slim’s to teach part-time despite his duties as a designer.

Lesley Mobo graduated with an Honors Degree in Fashion at Central St. Martin’s in 2002 after moving out of the Philippines to study Fashion in London. His career started soon after at Jasmine Di Milo, a newly established brand, and was soon after promoted to Head Designer in 2003. Lesley showed passion and persevered in his field garnering him multiple local and international collaborations with numerous brands and features in several books and publications. Lesley’s craft entail edgy, structural elements with sophisticated soft, feminine twists that appeal to young elite Europeans. His pieces are fun and flirty despite residing on the conservative side of ball gowns, asymmetrical dresses, and pant suits.

Josie Natori is an award winning, foreign-fashion CEO and founder of The Natori Company Inc. It houses Natori, a global brand that started out with a lingerie line and later on expanded to a lifestyle brand. Natori received multiple awards some of which include Fashion Group International’s Humanitarian Award, and the Lakandula Award last 2007.

Eric Pineda is a costume and fashion designer credited for his outstanding design works for theater plays, a period soap opera, as well as bridal gowns and fashion ensemble for celebrities. His passion for designing for theatre plays began in college as one of the enthusiastic young members of the University of the Philippines (UP) Repertory in 1982 and was soon after recruited to tackle the production needs of other theatre plays outside UP. Eric had to juggle academics, organization, and production work and still continues to show relentless energy and quality in his works.

Gian Romano is an Iligan-native that started designing and styling back in 2000. A graduate of De La Salle University College of Saint Benilde with a degree in Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management, he then pursued his Fashion career after being granted a scholarship to study in Central Saint Martin’s in London in 2004. In 2005, Gian returned to Philippines and revealed his first collection “No Wave” which tackled the foundations of fashion design. His works adhere to a minimalist and utilitarian taste yet brings out the elements of self-expression and consciousness to form and structure.

Joe Salazar studied at Slim’s Fashion and Arts School in the 1960s. He was known for his ornamented ternos and evening wear that avoid minimalist trends. He enjoys doing classic pieces. however continues to add a hint of modern styling to each. Often listed as one of the Philippine’s outstanding designers, he was the first prestigious Ramon Valera awardee, and recently nominated as National Artist.

Amir Sali Aluk is a Paris-trained Filipino designer who ails from Sulu, Philippines. He studied Fine Arts at the University of San Carlos in Cebu City. During his early travels abroad, he met a Saudi princess and was offered to work as a designer for the royal household. After his 18 years as a designer for the Saudi Royal family, he returned to the Philippines last 2009 to start his own design line which started in his small Greenhills shop. His style revolves around heavy layers, seas of colors, and generous beadings which eventually got him the title of Prince of Beads.

Cary Santiago is a Cebu-based master couturier. At a young age of 23, he went to Dubai to work for Hazaar Fashion where he learned all the basics of haute couture. Later on, he moved to Beirut and became the creative designer for the House of Jibran. His work is very intricate - all well crafted and well constructed. He has become a household name in Philippine Fashion with his designs being worn in weddings, state dinners, SONAs, and even the Oscars.

Ezra Santos has been featured internationally in fashion shows, magazines, and events. He put up his own atelier in Dubai in 2008 after working with many designers in the Philippines and Saudi Arabia. His works are seen to use lavish, intricate, and feminine designs and materials.

Inno Sotto received multiple degrees in Fashion and Art in different schools abroad namely the University of San Francisco, San Francisco School of Fashion and Design, and Parsons in New York. With his subtly draped designs, Inno Sotto has done a number of international galas, specifically 27, in his 32-year career.

Philipp Tampus is a Cebu-native designer and proud alumnus of the Filipino rendition of the renowned TV series “Project Runway.” Well-known for his intricate details, random patterns, and artwork that emphasize a woman's shape, Phillipp is gaining a steady following of loyal clientele, not just in Cebu but all over the country as well. 

Oliver Tolentino, coined as the “Valentino of the Philippines”, began his career in the late 90s and was the first Filipino designer to expand his business to Los Angeles in 2009. Since then, he has catered to both local celebrities and Hollywood stars. 

Cherry Samuya Veric’s crafts entail intricate details and cuts that bring out the wearer’s seductive silhouettes. He adorns his designs with ornamented pieces finishing with delicate numbers that appeal to varied audiences.

Chito Vijandre is a top lifestyle and design guru. He is the creative director of a chain of lifestyle and design stores which include Chichirico, Felicity, Firma, and AC+632. Aside from being a fashion designer, he is also known for his signature home furnishings.

Yvette Ylagan is a graduate of De La Salle University and Philippine School of Interior Design. She is the other half of the sister duo behind the local clothing brand, Religioso - a brand that champions locally made materials and showcases world class designs, details, and workmanship.